Carthusia Perfumery in Capri, Italy

When exploring the Amalfi Coast last week, I kept seeing bath and body products made by Carthusia, a perfumery in Capri.  Then, when Joe and I got to Capri, our hotel, Capri Tiberio Palace, supplied their products in the bathroom and had fragrance diffusers throughout the lobby, which were incredibly luxurious.  So of course, I had to pop into the original store and learn more one sniff at a time.

In 1948, a chemist from Torino, created the smallest fragrance laboratory in the world in Capri, Carthusia.  Each scent created is inspired by the island, which is why it's so special and why I found it so intriguing.  Capri is currently my favorite place in the world! The essence from rosemary picked on Monte Solaro is used in men's products, while the that of Capri wild carnation is used in women's fragrances. However, the line expands way beyond eau de toilettes.

I wasn't allowed to take pictures, but obviously snapped a few anyway.  The Capri Tiberio Palace even had pool side refreshing water spritzers that were lightly fragranced by Carthusia (first photo).  That, my friends, was the icing on the cake. The essence of Capri and all of it's energy was in full force.

Don't worry, I'm not raving to you about something you don't have access to unless you visit Capri!  You can check out the Carthusia line online and make purchases.  My favorite things are actually the home diffusers and candles.  Who wouldn't want their home to smell like Capri?

Hidden Beauty Benefits in Your Food

Did you know that some of the food you eat can help fight free radicals, moisturize your skin and even keep you trim?  Ah! Now you're paying attention.  Yes, there are hidden beauty benefits in your food.  Through a survey conducted by Simple Skincare, 50%of women claim they strive for a healthy diet. However, they are missing key foods that can do wonders for their beauty health. We talked with Nicole Avena, PhD, author of Why Diets Fail to get the scoop on how these foods can benefit us and some tips on how to incorporate them into your daily routine.

Brussels sprouts are one of the most beneficial foods when it comes to your long-term health. “They can lower cholesterol and help with DNA protection,” Dr. Avena explains. “And they are among the highest content when it comes to glucosinolate, which is a cancer-protective element.”  Avena suggests steaming brussels sprouts for your lunch or dinner veggie.

If you’re looking for a food to increase your mood (and who isn't), walnuts are the food for you. And believe it or not, improving your mood goes hand in hand with improving your skin. Avena explains that they are packed with B-vitamins, which is good for stress and mood management. “B-vitamins, together with Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant, help fight the free radicals induced due to stress. This further delays the ageing process.” And who doesn’t want that, right?

Another food that benefits your skin is wild salmon. It’s a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which helps keep your skin supple and moisturized. Salmon is also great during summer because it contains selenium, a mineral that protects the skin from UV-exposure.

Looking to maintain a healthy figure?  Avocados will help keep you lean and trim. "They're a great source of both insoluble and soluble fiber," Avena explains. Insoluable fiber keeps you regular, while soluable fiber helps control appetite by making you feel fuller.  This is a favorite of Avena’s. “I’m really liking avocados right now. They are easy to turn into a dip by mashing 1-2 up and adding some spices. Also, they are delicious on their own for a quick healthy snack. I cut them in half and eat then out of the skin with a spoon.”

What's your favorite beauty food?  According the the survey, 68% of women are missing out on Brussels sprouts, 62% on walnuts, 57% on salmon and 56% miss avocados.  Ladies, let's get munching on the right stuff!

DIY Foot Reflexology Massage

Next time you get a pedicure or visit a spa, you may want to add on a foot reflexology massage.  It's worth it!  Often mistaken for a simple foot massage, which I'll take any day, reflexology actually works on the nervous system by helping to release stress and allows the body to heal and regenerate.  Trust me on this one.  I spoke with Susan Ciminelli of the Susan Ciminelli Beauty Clinic in NYC to find out how to preform the reflexology at home so you can give it to your significant other and ya know, hoping Joe reads this!  

"Each point touched and massaged on the foot is connected to an organ or a system or body part," Ciminelli explains.  "The application of pressure to feet sends a message to the central nervous system and promotes relaxation, leaves you energized, and positively affects the circulatory, muscular, immune and respiratory system in the whole body."

When performing foot reflexology, you should take into account all aspects the person's being: body, emotion, mind, and body. "If your man is stressed, work the entire arch from the big toe to the heal to relax the spine. This is deeply relaxing and calming. He may even feel sleepy but this is part of the "healing" process."

Here's how Ciminelli performs a foot reflexology massage at her beauty clinic:

Start by bathing the feet in warm towels.  Use lavender essential oil mixed with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or even vitamin E. I start at the toes and work my way down the foot. Apply gentle pressure to specific reflex points located in the feet and stimulate these points to balance the body - a typical treatment  is 45 to 60 minutes.

You can use a detailed Reflexology Chart to learn more about the different points, zones, and the location of organs on the feet and ankles. You may recognize where is located the liver, the head, the kidneys, and apply appropriate pressure on them depending how the person  getting the reflexology responds to it.

Kat Von D Talks Her New Fall Sephora Collection

“I wanted to create something that was as if Tim Burton designed candy,” Kat Von D tells us about the new look for her fall Sephora collection.

Since launching the collection back in 2008, Kat Von D has become a refreshing inspiration in the beauty industry. Rocking her signature cat eye, angular eyebrows and bold lip, we got to talk to her about the inspiration behind her fall collection, her first lipstick, and her stance on no makeup selfies.

The Fall Collection

"To be honest I was quite happy with the original formula, but I think just because something isn’t broken doesn’t mean it can’t get better," she began telling us about her lipsticks.

Working with what were already high pigment shades, they were now long wear (ten hours!) and this collection is full of fragrance.  "You can’t wear my sh*t if you don’t like crème brulee."

Her First (and Favorite) Lipstick

Home Girl in my ever lasting liquid lip line was inspired by the first lipstick I ever got. I was really really really poor. Like really poor. I had saved up 99 cents to go to Rite Aid or whatever. 508 was the lipstick. I was Goth girl my sister was like a Chola, so that was the only makeup we could share. It was so waxy my sister used to take a lighter to it to melt it and get more pigment out of it. So when I finally got this lipstick line I was like how do I make 508 but really actually good. So that’s how Home Girl came to be. And that’s one of my favorite lipsticks now to this day. I have to not wear it everyday because of the way I dress I think. It’s like oh your being a typical Goth girl. And I’m like no it’s not that, I’m not wearing my feelings right now, it just matches what I’m wearing.

No-Makeup Selfies

When people ask me what my favorite look is, my answer is always the same, which is I like myself without makeup. I think putting on makeup is just fun to me and that’s why I do it. I think that’s what feminism is all about, to be able to do what ever you want whenever you want.

I also think people are hungry to connect and relate again. So I think when a celebrity posts a picture without makeup, it’s like oh cool how refreshing. It doesn’t always have to be this photoshopped unrealistic version of what I’ll never be. I don’t think people want to be that. I don’t want to be that. I hate it when they over photoshop me. I know how crooked my face is, but I like it that way.

Tattoo Artist to Makeup Artist

I’m not supposed to talk about it, but right now I’m working on this contouring pallet. I love Caravaggio, he’s my favorite painter from back in the day. Caravaggio is the one who brought the usage of light and shadow approach to painting. [Contouring] is just the usage of highlights and shades. That’s what I know how to do, I can draw that sh*t. I guess I just approach my makeup in that form. I can use the optical illusion of makeup to my benefit. I wouldn’t lie to you and tell you I’m a pro. I’m sure there are better ways for me to approach my blush that I haven’t learned yet.

The Kat Von D fall Sephora collection will include lightning liner ($20), a click-pen liquid liner. And updated Studded Kiss Lipsticks ($21) with 10-hour long wear and crème brulee scent will be available at Sephora in late July 2014.

5 things worth checking out this week

Olivia Wilde is the queen of perfection, and now you can get her sleek frizz-free hair with just a trip to the drugstore! [Instyle] Beat a hot workout in style with these summer gym bag essentials [The Luxury Spot]

Avoid summer skin emergencies with these great tips guaranteed to keep you looking healthy and glowing during the hottest months of the year [Beauty High]

This bucket list is totally inspiring us to have the best summer ever, what's on yours? [Honestly Jamie]

Are you #sorrynotsorry? Then check out this awesome video created by Pantene intended to empower women in the best way possible [Total Beauty]

Stylish & Easy Summer Braids

In case you missed the memo, we’re obsessed with braids. Not only are they an easy way to tame unruly (read: frizzy!) strands during the hot summer months, but they’re chic as well. Here are a few of our favorite  easy summer braids that will redefine your go-to summer look all while staying cool and stylish, whether you’re hanging by the pool or on the beach.

The Side Braid Chignon

A great way to keep bangs in place, the side braid flatters any face while the chignon elevates the look to a whole new level. Keep it loose and pull out a few strands for a refreshing update on a classic summertime style.

The Fishtail

This edgy braid tames frizzy locks while capturing a flirty and fun summer vibe, perfect for long days on the beach. Start at the crown and pull it over one shoulder, loosening sections as you go, for a pretty boho look.

The Crown

For those who can’t stand the heat when the summer sun comes out, a braided crown keeps hair tucked up and away without sacrificing style. Start on one side of your head and braid around, bobby pinning any strands threatening to pop out, for a whimsical and fun final look.

The Half-Up

A good option for those who aren’t quite so adventurous, this easy summer braid style features two small braids (one on each side of the head) connected in the back. This flattering look pulls back those annoying front pieces that frame your face while still allowing the rest of your hair to flow with summertime ease.

Natural & Organic Skin Care Driven by Results

One of my facialists at Bliss Spa, Marlena Rose McGee, has been testing natural and organic skin care for over 10 years and found result-driven buys.  "My awareness of what I put in and on my body became my priority while preparing for and throughout my pregnancy. It led me on a determined mission to find natural and organic products that could live up to my skins expectations," McGee explains.  Here are some of her favorites.

Heritage Rose Petals Rosewater Glycerin

I’ve been using this secret gem for years. It is as refreshing to your skin as a cool glass of lemonade on a hot summer day. Your pores will feel alive and your skin will get a splash of hydration. The delicate scent of rose is also great to use as a very subtle body splash and an instant cool down. You have a choice between 8 or 4 oz bottle and a spray. I keep the 8 oz bottle at home and use as a toner after cleansing, and keep my 4 oz spray in my bag for a pick me up. If you are prone to breakouts, you can add 3 to 4 drops of tea tree essential oil (keep this bottle at home, as the oil should be kept out of the sun). This natural aromatherapy water is a steal under $10 and can be purchased at Whole Foods.

Sierra Sage 100% Natural Dry Skin, Daily Skin Moisturizing Salve

A few years ago, I developed psoriasis on the palms of my hands and sole of my foot. My hands have really improved through change of diet. The heel of my foot is still cracked and dry. I have tried countless moisturizers. So far, this is my #1 go to . It actually heals the skin, rather then just adding moisture. It has a high concentration of calendula mixed with organic oils and flowers. It is great for everything from dry skin to rashes, even irritation from shaving or waxing. Definitely, a must have for your medicine cabinet.

One Love Organics Morning Glory Brightening Complexion Booster

This lightweight raspberry leaf, peppermint, lemon balm serum is my skin’s hero. One would never know my little one keeps me up all night thanks to this magic potion. With a few drops my skin goes from dreary to super mom glow. In the summer, I apply follow with spf and I’m hydrated for the day . It’s anti- inflammatory properties are a life savior for sensitive skin. The vegan - sourced Omega 3 fatty acids act as little erasers for the appearance of fine lines. It’s an all inclusive treatment in one bottle.

May Lindstrom Skin The Problem Solver Correcting Mask

A detoxifying, blemish healing, pore tightening, powder to mousse mask that gets the job done, yes, please! If you need to feel the tingle to know it‘s “working“, this is your mask. Simply mix equal parts water and powder mixture and massage onto skin. Hand blended in small batches using organic ingredients such as Red Moroccan Rhassoul Clay, Tumeric,and Red Alaea Sea Salt, May Lindstrom marries the perfect combo of luxury and effectiveness in the mask. The exotic spices will most definitely warm your skin and your senses. Use once a week for a clear, radiant complexion.

Meet My Wedding Day Glam Squad, It's Here

It's here!  Joe and I are getting married on Friday and running away to honeymoon in Italy – unplugged.  Well, as unplugged as possible so I'll talk to you when we return! I felt it was only right to share details on my wedding day glam squad, especially since I'm so fortunate to be able to work with the best in the industry on a daily basis so this was a huge decision.  Drumroll please...

Hair Stylist: Liam Carey of the Jeff Chastain Parlor assisted by Jan-Marie Arteca

Makeup Artist & Brow Specialist: Maribeth Madron

Dermatologist: Ilyse Lefkowicz

Spray Tan Artist: Erica at EC Beauty Studio

Lash Specialist: Tamara at Courtney Akai

Manicurist: Specialists from the Jin Soon Nail Spa

When choosing a hairstylist and makeup artist for your big day, make sure of course, that not only can they understand and can implement your vision, but also pay attention to their energy during your trials.  It was so important to me to work with positive, fun, yet chill people.  The energy in the room will set the tone for your day!

I selected each person and salon through a series of trials not just leading up to my wedding day, but through relationships I've built throughout the years, too.  Getting married? If you have any wedding day glam squad questions, please ask!  I've also been documenting my bridal beauty countdown, a beauty timeline for brides-to-be over the last year.  Hope it helps!

Of course, when we're back from our honeymoon and I get my photos, I'll share images of their work! Stay tuned and please excuse me for taking some time off to spend with my new husband!

Curly Hair Styling Saviors

Curly hair can be a beast to live with. My particular type of curl is among the worst, because I’m somewhere in between corkscrew curls and serious beach waves, with a touch of frizziness. When it comes to maintenance, I’m extremely picky about the products that I use in hopes of controlling that frizz without the added hassle of greasy roots from heavy product. Over the last month or so, some pretty awesome products have made their way from Jeannine’s desk to mine that have revolutionized my daily hair routine in a big way, so it would be a crime not to share these curly hair styling saviors!John Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Nourishment Leave-In Conditioner, $5.99 at Ulta.com

This spray not only smells fantastic, but works wonders on tangly curls post-shower. Typically us curly-haired girls fight with our strands for hours just to get a comb through it, but this product eliminates the struggle and leaves behind a blissfully knot-free mane. Added bonus? This vitamin-infused tonic also works as a heat protectant, eliminating another step to your morning routine.

Paul Mitchell Curls Ultimate Wave Beachy Texture Cream-Gel, $20 PaulMitchell.com

Using any product with the word “gel” in it typically spells certain crunchy doom to any girl with curly hair, however this product is an exception to the rule. Lightweight and non-greasy, this gel adds just the right amount of body to curls without the extra crunch of a traditional gel. Scrunch a nickel-sized amount through damp strands for all day humidity control and an added tousled wave look.

John Frieda Frizz Ease Nourishing Oil Elixer, $11.99 Drugstore.com

I know, I know…another John Frieda product? Trust me when I say that John Frieda knows curls, and this Argan- based oil completely proves that. Perfect for combating frizziness, this oil coats and protects strands while adding a beautiful shine to finished hair. Pro Tip: mix one pump of oil with that nickel-sized amount of the Paul Mitchell Curls Cream-Gel for a totally life-changing combo, just be sure to apply from mid-shaft to tip to avoid greasiness at the scalp.

Mark. That’s Beachy Texturizing Surf Spray, $14 at MeetMark.com

This spray is literally beach hair in a bottle. This delicious smelling tonic adds incredible volume while defining curls in a way that I have yet to see from anything short of actual ocean water. It’s super lightweight and I find that I can spray it all over, from root to tip, with no fear of greasy residue once it’s dry. All that is left is beachy bombshell hair that will be your go-to style for summer. The best part? It’s only $14, a total steal compared to higher-end brands and delivers way more bang for your buck.

Biolage Volumizing Whipped Mousse, $19 Drugstore.com

Similar to gels, mousses tend to be extremely hit or miss when applied to curly hair. This mousse adds volume and a little goes a very long way in even the thickest of tresses. Pump a dollop into your palm and work through damp hair for a touchably soft wavy look, sans any crunch. Not only does this mousse feature a medium hold, but it also strengthens strands with macro-lipids and Ceramide without added weight or grease. The 250 mL size will last you a lifetime, making it recessionista-approved.

Bridesmaid Hair Styling Tips from Kim Kimble

Bridesmaid hair can be chic and elegant or it can go horribly wrong.  Most of the time, the stylist is out of your control as they're chosen by the bride and styling the whole bridal party.  Going to be a bridesmaid anytime soon?  I spoke with Celebrity Stylist, Kim Kimble, to find out exactly how to ensure your style will be modern no matter who's hands you're in.  Here are her bridesmaid hair styling tips.

How can you be sure you're not going to look like a cookie-cutter bridesmaid?

Do your research before the big day.  Look to a variety of sources for inspiration in addition to bridal magazines, such as movies, red carpet, the runway, style blogs, etc. Your hair will look its best if you go with the style that works for you and makes you feel great. If a style doesn't jump out at you in a bridal magazine, don't be afraid to explore other options for inspiration.

How can you make sure your hair looks it's best on the big day? Dreaded bridesmaid hair usually stems from over-styled, over-processed, unhealthy hair. If you use too much product, you will end up with a crunchy mess. The best way to avoid this is to start with healthy hair. Use products well-suited for your hair type and always take the extra step to protect your hair during the weeks leading up to the wedding.  For example, I love Pantene's Heat Shield collection—the Shampoo, Conditioner and Heat Potion Serum when used before heat styling will keep hair healthy, soft and shiny.

How should a bridesmaid prep their hair for wedding day styling? For up-do or half-up styles, I usually have my clients start with clean hair, but then I’ll add a bit of product to create a little bit of texture so hair is easy to work with. To create this effect, run a small amount of the Pantene Stylers Texturizing Sculpting Wax through freshly washed and conditioned hair and then spritz a bit of Pantene's Root Reboot Dry Shampoo before styling. This will add texture and volume to the hair, which is ideal for twisting and pinning and holding an up-do type of style in place.

What if you don't like your end result? I highly recommend doing a test run before the big day to prevent ending up with a style you're unhappy with. This way you can see what you envisioned firsthand and decide whether it works for you. If you don't have time for a test run or end up really unhappy with your style, you really can't go wrong by pulling hair into a low chignon. It's beautiful, simple, classic style that will stand the test of time in the wedding photos.  You can always do your own take on this style as well by adding a side braid at the crown before pulling back or adding an accessory like a sparkly bobby pin or a fresh flower.

 Check out my wedding day hair Pinterest board for bridesmaid hair styling inspiration.  I of course, emailed it to my bridesmaids!

Emmy Rossum's NARS Lip Look

Last week Emmy Rossum sported a show stopping lip look at the Stella McCartney 2015 spring presentation and I spoke with her makeup artist, Beau Nelson, to find out what the exact shade was and how to cop it, because let's be real, it's not easy to pull off a ton of pigment without getting it all over your face.  Without further ado, here are the details behind Emmy Rossum's NARS lip look.

"I loved the simplicity of Emmy’s Stella McCartney dress.  We decided that a bright lip would be a nice punch of color for a beautiful spring day," Nelson explained.

The shade: NARS Pure Matte Lipstick in Carthage.

When wearing a punchy lip shade, always use a lip brush to apply it for a more precise application.  If you try to put it on directly from the bullet, you don't have as much control. For extra staying power, blot it gently with a tissue after one coat and reapply the same way.

Chic Neutral Nail Ideas

While we love a pop of color for summer, neutrals never go out of style. And neutral polishes make your tips look clean and sophisticated. Here are chic neutral nail ideas to spice up your mani, while still maintaining elegance.

Angled Lines

The clean lines in this sharp design add an intriguing dimension to the natural curve of the nails. It’s a totally chic way to incorporate two different tones of the same shade.

Black Tips

A thin, black line across a pale shade like Essie in Ballet Slippers offers a new way to wear a classic French mani. We love nothing more than black polish. #classy

Colored Edges

Similar to the black tips, these skinny multi-colored tips are unique and fun look for summer. The variety of colors painted thinly on the outer edge allows them to compliment instead of compete against one another.

Foil Nails

Adding shine to a neutral color is a simple but effective way to rock a chic neutral mani. The metallic adds a nice texture without overwhelming. We like the Barry M Foil Effects Polish ($4.76).

Ombre Shades

We just love this idea of an ombre neutral mani. Choosing a shade like brown gives this particular mani a fresh look.

How to Pack the Perfect Beach Bag

Do you ever read the US Weekly's "What's in (insert some random celebrity here) Bag" column?  Well, in case you were curious, here's a list of what makes it into my beach bag summer after summer. As a hoarder of bags in general, my go-to beach bag is a FEED bag. In case you're not familiar, educate yourself!  They're cute and purchases help fight world hunger.  So, here's how to pack a perfect beach bag according to moi.

I don't know about you, but I'm a Jersey Shore girl who also loves the Hamptons (I'll never pass up a weekend to get out there).  Most of my beach time is spent at Pt. Pleasant, NJ and I spend a week in Aruba with my family each summer, too.  No matter where I am though, my perfect beach bag must haves typically stay the same.  I'm sure yours aren't far from this, either.

SPF 30 with UVA/UVB protection - Use at least an SPF 15.  Anything higher than 30 is just marketing.  Trust me.

POND’S Original Fresh Wet Cleansing Towelettes - They're so refreshing!  I can always count on them to cleanse plus moisturize my face when I go from the beach to the tiki bar.  

iPhone - Obvi.  I try to use it only to take pictures and listen to music.  Unplugging is hard though, even on the beach.

Mags or steamy reads - Last summer I flew threw everything written by Gillian Flynn and of course caught up on all of the summer issues.  Any recs for this summer?  What do you do to pass the time on the beach?  I get antsy!

Chic sunnies - Again, obvi.

Sun hat - I love a good fedora or wide brim hat.   Look for a tightly woven straw hat to help protect you from the sun's rays.

Lip Treatment with SPF 15 - Don't forget to protect your lips.  Balms are so much more fun when they're tinted.

Comb - Having knotty, wind blown hair is not an option.  I like to brush out my hair when I get out of the ocean.  Bring a wide tooth comb to keep your hair from looking ratty. Remember, the goal is beach waves, not beach rat.

Water - Stay hydrated!

Ok, now tell me what I'm missing!  How do you pack the perfect beach bag?

Frank Coffee Scrub: Worth It

One of the benefits of having guy friends who stalk models on Instagram is that I'm always informed when one of them posts a pic using a beauty product.  Little do these guys realize, they've all become BeautySweetSpot spies.  Thanks to one of them, I discovered a body scrub made in Australia that has a cult model following called Frank Coffee Scrub. Of course, I ordered it that day.  About two weeks later, he arrived... and yes, I'm calling the product 'he,' here's why.

Frank isn't just another scrub.  He has the personality of a man on social media, which makes following his account and becoming part of the cult fun.  I follow his Instagram not only to appreciate the branding, but also because it's so clever!  With a tagline of "Get Dirty," I feel like I'm following a 29 year old single guy who's blunt, without being creepy.

As for the product, it took about two weeks to arrive since it came directly from Australia and comes in a 7 oz. paper package.  I thought it was strange that a scrub came in paper, since it would likely get wet, but I'm really careful with it!  It's that good.  It's made with coffee, brown sugar and sea salt to help exfoliate, and almond oil, vitamins and minerals to moisturize.  As soon as I opened it my bathroom smelled strongly of rich, flavorful coffee, but the bag warns that even though the product is vegan, you can't eat it.

The best way to use this scrub is to get in the shower and dampen your skin, then turn the water off.  You'll use about one to two hand-fulls of the scrub for your entire body and face. I wasn't sure how I felt about the exfoliant since it's a bit abrasive and I'm used to really gentle scrubs, but I gently scrubbed it onto my face and body in a circular motion and like the directions said, let it sit on my skin for five minutes before rinsing off.

The proof was in the pudding.  My shower was a bit of a mess since it's a bit thick and it didn't all go down the drain, but my skin felt smooth and looked vibrant and fresh. Seriously, I've been using it once a week (cleaning out the tub each time), and have an addiction.  It's that worth it.  I will purchase it again.  I just wish it came in bigger bags!

You can get Frank Coffee Scrub for $14.95.

Man Parts: Ode to the Abdominal V

Something's going on in the men's fashion industry, where calling attention to exposed not-so-hot body parts is gaining traction. My first glimpse of random man flesh was in a NY Mag feature on mankles, encouraging guys to 'throw out their socks.'  Then came a Huffington Post article featuring Jude Law and his he-vage, man breasts shown off by wearing a super deep V T-shirt.  Whatever happened to "the V" (you know, that sexy abdominal V) and why in God's name isn't anyone designing to show that off?

While I can stand behind cuffed jeans paired with boat shoes, it is utterly ridiculous to refer to a man's ankle or (anyone's ankle for that matter) as sexy.  I did for a second, reconsider when I read on to find the writer describing the 'mankle' in an erotic way, "A part that is both strong yet delicate, like the body’s D’Angelo ballad." The body's D'Angelo ballad (Brown Sugar anyone?).  Yes, convincing indeed.  Then I realized it was the words I was turned on by, not the 'mankle,' which I'm still not sure is a good or bad thing.  Either way, she made a strong case.

The thought of 'he-vage' on the other hand makes me heave.  And if you thought Jude Law could do no wrong, you're wrong.  I will say, his bod is rocking, but come on.  By inspecting his T-shirt it doesn't look stretched out, which means he bought it like that. Who even makes T-shirts for men like that?  I've seen tanks at American Apparel that resemble the same deep V style, but they remind me of something Hulk Hogan would wear wrestling, which is why I'm also deeming this look as not hot. The best part of this article is when John Jannuzzi, Senior Digital Editor of GQ comments, "If it crosses the nipple line, as it has here, you’ve gone too far.”

Now let's get to it.  If 'mankles' don't turn you on and 'he-vage' doesn't get your juices flowing, then you'll most likely agree with me that the abdominal V is clearly the sexiest part of a man's body.  It's innocent enough to be exposed in public, yet sexy enough to let your imagination run wild.  Now, I'll leave you with that D'Angelo ballad.

5 Things Worth Checking Out this Week

17 pretty pony ideas for summer [Allure] Because even us beauty bloggers don't take our own advice sometimes [Rouge18]

It's summer, help your man out. #manscaping [LuxurySpot]

How to make your butt firmer and smoother [BellaSugar]

Tips for refreshing your summer wardrobe [ThisThatBeauty]

Makeup Counter Fears We All Face

We spend an unhealthy amount of time wondering around Sephora, easily losing hours at a time amongst our friends Dior and Kat Von D.  When it comes to shopping for cosmetics, there's one place we always have awkward experiences and avoid at all costs... the department store makeup counter. You know exactly what we're talking about. These are the 8 makeup counter fears at department stores.

1. When the first saleswoman to accost you looks like she applied her makeup in the dark

2. and the first words out of her mouth are, "Can I give you a makeover?"

3. Then, when you make the mistake of actually stopping to look at the new products and she becomes your new best friend you're all,

4. And when she attacks you with every single new perfume in reach, you're stuck with people thinking you were in an accident in a perfume factory

5. And she cons you into buying a blue lipstick because they're "out of" the red one you originally wanted

6. While her upselling skills have you walking in looking for an eyeshadow and walking out with an eyeshadow, three palettes, two eyeliners, and eyelash curler, and a nail polish

7. Or, even worse, walking out with a bag full of crap except for the one thing you really wanted and you're all

8. and your face when you look at your bank account the next day

Check out this 'Makeup Counter Secrets' article from Total Beauty to help you really navigate the department store and face your makeup counter fears! After all, the artists know what they're talking about.

Summer Beauty Innovations on NBC NY Live

How was everyone's weekend?  Right before I left for the Hamptons (it was my bachelorette party!) I visited Jaque Reid and Lilliana Vasquez at NY Live to showcase some of the hottest summer beauty innovations.  Of course, they all came to the Hamps with me!  Check out the segment after the jump.

Sally Hansen Jelly Polishes – drugstores, $4.99

L’Oreal Preference Mousse Absolue – drugstores, $14.99

Skindinavia Makeup Spray Primer – Skindinavia.com, S35

La Roche Posay Anthelios 30 Cooling Water Lotion Sunscreen with CELL-OX SHIELD XL - $35.99, drugstores

Xen Tan Transformation Ultra – $65 at Nordstrom

Gillette Fusion ProGlide Giveaway: For Him

My fiancé's been in an exclusive relationship with his razor since he started shaving at 16. Well not the actual razor, but the brand – Gillette.  It's because of his influence that I pay so much attention to men's grooming and I'd be lying if I said I never stole his razor to test it against the latest for women.  In honor of Father's Day, and Gillette's latest campaign, FacetheWorldIRL, how does a Gillette Fusion ProGlide giveaway sound?  Great! Because I'm giving away a year's supply of the razor and everything your man, or dad, needs to put his best face forward.

The innovative razor can be used manually or with battery power to make it vibrate, claiming to give you a closer shave.  Joe likes to use it without the vibration saying he, "believes he gets just as good of a shave since the razor has five blades."  Plus, it has strips of lubrication on top of the razor to provide a smooth glide.

The one year supply of a Gillette Fusion ProGlide giveaway includes:

·         14 Gillette Fusion ProGlide Razors (each one can last up to 5 weeks)

·         7 Gillette Fusion Pro Glide Sensitive Shave Gel

·         10 Gillette Fusion Pro Series Irritation Defense Soothing Moisturizer

For professional grooming tips, send your man or dad to FacetheWorldIRL.com.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

POND's Skin Care: Plus Up Your to Basics

One of my earliest beauty memories was from my grandma.  I've told this story before in a video I did with POND'S last year, but it's priceless because her lesson stayed with me and through generations has been tried and true.  When my sister and I had sleepovers at my grandparents house, my grandma always made us wash our face with cold cream before we went to bed.  It wasn't any cold cream, it was hers, part of her beauty regimen for years, and it was POND’S.  I was about four years old.  There's something about POND'S skin care and taking it all back to basics that sits well with me and my skin.

The POND’S Cold Cream Cleanser is the perfect cleanser, because it's made up of 50% moisturizer making it so gentle on your skin, that washing your face becomes pampering. It also removes makeup, (yes even waterproof mascara), plus moisturized my skin leaving it feeling really soft and looking radiant. I'll never forget my first experience.  My grandma still to this day uses POND's skin care and her skin has always looked fantastic.

I'm a huge fan of the POND’S Fresh Wet Cleansing Towelettes (and so is Joe).  As towelette hoarders, Joe sometimes uses these instead of going through the actual process of washing his face at night and must admit I've done it a few times myself.  They’re really a 2-in-1, because they gently remove all of my makeup, plus act as a leave on moisturizer. I normally use towelettes after a barre class or just throughout the day as I run around NYC event hopping for a nice refresh.

For me, no matter what my beauty look ends up being night or day, it starts with skin care. Clean, well moisturized, radiant skin is constantly what I'm trying to keep up and if you're in the same boat, then sometimes you may want to take it back to basics and try POND'S skin care. Remember what they say, less is more.  Keep an eye out for a coupon for POND's skin care in newspapers nationwide!

*This is a sponsored post by POND'S, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.