Holiday Glam Tips — As Seen On CBS Austin’s “We Are Austin”
Whether you’re spending the holidays at home with your immediate family members, attending Zoom parties with friends and family, having socially distanced get-togethers in your backyard, or taking the littles on outings to check out holiday lighting displays, you always want to look as glamorous as you would have in years past. To that end, I appeared on CBS Austin’s “We Are Austin” today to share some of my tips on how you can be your own one-woman glam squad and emerge shining like the star you are.
From dazzling jewelry to luxurious eyeshadows, hair-perfecting tools, and come-hither faux lashes, check out these great products that will help you sparkle this holiday season. Check out the “We Are Austin” segment by clicking here and keep reading for all the fun details on the products seen on air!
STERLING FOREVER JEWELRY
It’s the season for all things merry and bright so, in that spirit, leave a little sparkle everywhere you go with some beautiful baubles from Sterling Forever. Inspired by runway trends and celeb favorites, Sterling Forever offers easy-to-wear 14k gold-plated and sterling silver pieces that can be mixed and matched — all at affordable prices.
You can be a lock for best dressed with these pieces, which incorporate fun, edgy carabiner clip pendants. Just like safety pins and nails before them, carabiner clips are perfectly ordinary, everyday utilitarian objects that are now being transformed into the focal points of extraordinary pieces of jewelry. And since Sterling Forever has its finger on the pulse of fashion trends, it offers a number of stunning pieces adorned with carabiner clips: among them the Interlocking Carabiner Pendant Necklace shown above at top ($62 at SterlingForever.com), the Square CZ Carabiner Clip Huggie Hoops ($52 at SterlingForever.com) as well as the Pavé Cubic Zirconia Carabiner Lock Necklace ($64 at SterlingForever.com)
Celestial jewelry is also trending, and Sterling Forever has plenty of pieces you’ll love to the moon and back. Two of my favorites are the Cubic Zirconia Burst Drop Earrings ($88 at SterlingForever.com), which measure 2.6″ in length and feature four graduated starburst accents, each studded with cubic zirconias; and the Moon & Dangle Star Studs ($54 a tSterlingForever.com), which feature 1″-long, cubic zirconia-encrusted stud earrings shaped like crescent moons, each with a 1.7″ drop and a star accent at the very end.
ISSEY MIYAKE L’EAU D’ISSEY ROSE&ROSE EDP INTENSE L’EAU D’ISSEY WOOD&WOOD EDP INTENSE
“Glamour is assurance,” Old Hollywood icon and sultry siren Marlene Dietrich once said. “It is a kind of knowing that you are all right in every way, mentally and physically and in appearance, and that, whatever the occasion or situation, you are equal to it.”In other words, if you’re comfortable in your own skin, if you own both your best traits and your worst flaws, if you embrace every aspect of your being, you will exude a quiet confidence that will, in turn, allow glamour to blossom. And while confidence comes from within, there’s nothing like a great fragrance to help you manifest that boldness. Like putting on a sky-high pair of heels or applying a sumptuous red lipstick, spritzing on a great fragrance can make you walk a little taller, smile a little brighter.
But what fragrance will have that intended effect? Well, I strongly recommend the new Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Rose& Rose Eau de Parfum Intense ($111 at Macy’s and Macys.com). Evoking freshness and tenderness, the fragrance combines centifolia and Damask roses — hence the double rose in its name. And there’s nothing dainty, timid, or bashful about this scent — after all, the rose is the uncontested queen of the floral universe. Instead, this fragrance owns its feminine core and celebrates it proudly. Top notes of pink pepper, raspberry and pear lend the fragrance a buoyancy that’s inviting and coquettish, leading to a heart of Bulgarian rose essence and a rose infusion alongside the fruity tones of osmanthus. The scent then finishes with opulent base notes of ambrolax, patchouli and cashmeran, which create a silky sillage.
The fragrance bottle celebrates the beauty of the rose in every way — from the choice of a pink-tinted bottle to the conical cap, which feels silky to the touch and constitutes a nod to the velvety feel of a rose petal. The translucent ball propped atop the cap, meanwhile, represents a dew drop — yet another subtle reference to the beauty of nature.
ISSEY MIYAKE L’EAU D’ISSEY POUR HOMME WOOD&WOOD EAU DE PARFUM INTENSE
Designed to complement Rose&Rose, the new Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme Wood&Wood EDP Intense ($98 at Macy’s and Macys.com) also pays homage to nature by combining two woody notes: cedarwood and sandalwood. Designed to convey strength and power, the fragrance opens with top notes of lively grapefruit, spicy cardamom, and fresh elemi essence, then takes us into a journey through the forest with middle notes of Virginia cedarwood and sandalwood that are complemented by ambrox and sweet apricot. Base notes of Haitian vetiver, patchouli and a musky backdrop all add a robust quality to the imposing woody fragrance.
The bottle mimics wood in its natural form — from the bottle’s light brown tint to the flaçon’s vertical and geometric shape, which is meant to mimic how tree trunks shoot upward into the heavens deep in the forest, all the way to the cap, with its veins and shades of brown ,which mirror the complexity and abundance naturally found in tree bark.
Think of this fragrance as an olfactory expression of Henry David Thoreau’s famous quote, “I went for a walk in the forest and came out taller than the trees.”
JUICE BEAUTY STEM CELLULAR ANTI-WRINKLE RETINOL OVERNIGHT SERUM
This holiday season, you want skin that’s as luminous as the star atop your holiday tree. To start shining, reach for the Juice Beauty’s new Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Overnight Serum ($72 at JuiceBeauty.com), the newest addition to Juice Beauty’s award-winning Stem Cellular collection.
This revolutionary serum from the OG of clean beauty features a combination of vegan retinol and bio-retinol at a 2.5% concentration for maximum potency. Now, you may not be aware of this, but the retinol in our beauty products can come from a variety of sources: the vitamin A derivative can be obtained from animal sources like beef, chicken liver, eggs, and fish, or it can be obtained from plants and vegetables like cantaloupe, carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin. Because Juice Beauty is committed to creating certified organic, plant-based, vegan, cruelty-free products, it does not utilize retinol derived from animal sources, hence the usage of vegan retinol. So what’s bio-retinol? Well, bio-retinol is a substance that doesn’t belong to the vitamin A family, but which function much like retinol when applied topically. Bidens pilosa, a plant that hails from South America, is one example of a clinically proven bio-retinol — and it’s one of the ingredients listed in this serum!
Not only does this serum rely exclusively on plant-based ingredients to yield the rejuvenating effects for which retinol is touted, but it employs a groundbreaking encapsulation technology. In other words, the retinol is encapsulated in evening primrose, and this exclusive encapsulation technology guarantees that ingredients remain stable without having to rely on toxic processing or encasement chemicals. Again here, Juice Beauty has shown it’s committed to innovation — particularly when it comes to upholding its eco-conscious values.
Similarly, the serum is packaged in an opaque bottle so as to prevent the exposure to sunlight that can damage retinol and it features an airless pump design to prevent oxidation, but it’s no ordinary bottle — it’s made of 100% recycled ocean water plastic, again underlining the brand’s eco values
This anti-aging, skin-resurfacing serum works its magic while you sleep to keep your skin looking and acting younger. Plus, unlike other retinol products that can be drying, this serum hydrates the skin thanks to ingredients like jojoba and coconut oils, shea butter, and sodium hyaluronate.
CERAVE HEALING OINTMENT
You can apply the most ravishing shade of red lipstick in all the land but, if your lips are scaly and cracked, the effect will be far from glamorous. Similarly, donning a sequined frock to bid 2020 adieu won’t be quite as dazzling if it reveals ashy, rough, dry knees and legs. In other words, before you worry about outfits and makeup, you need to focus on your skin’s health.
Think of your skin as your best party dress. Would you wear it when it was rumpled, torn or stained? Absolutely not! Well, if the cold and dry winter weather has left your skin dry, chapped and cracked, it’s time to nurse it back to health and restore it to its healthiest state — much like you’d do with your most beloved dress.
To help soothe and rehydrate skin, reach for the CeraVe Healing Ointment, which is formulated with three essential ceramides to restore the skin’s natural barrier, along with hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin and lock in moisture, providing an extra layer of protection and hydration. This versatile ointment can be used in a multitude of ways: to repair and protect chapped lips, to hydrate and soften rough elbows and heels, to nourish cracked and dry cuticles and hands, and much more. The dermatologist-developed formula is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, non-comedogencic, and it contains no lanolin, so it’s a great product for all skin types.
The CeraVe healing ointment is available on Amazon.com and comes in several sizes: a 3 oz. tube that retails for $11.99, a 5 0z. tube that costs $16.99 and the 12 oz. jar shown above, which is $23.99
KISS JEWEL NAILS
Want to nail a red carpet-worthy look? Then start with, well, your nails! After all, there’s no better cure than a manicure, right? And you don’t have to spend tons of time and money to flaunt beautifully adorned fingernails. In fact, if you visit Dollar General, you’ll find a large assortment of KISS nails at unbeatable prices, so that the fate of your glamorous mani will literally be in your hands.
KISS Nails are available in glittery and jewel-adorned designs, as well as a classic French manicure style, matte and satin solid colors, and much more. My favorite style for this holiday season is pictured above, and it’s the KISS Jewel Nails in Willowy ($6 at Dollar General). Each kit comes with 24 ready-to-wear nails. To apply, you start by finding the correct size nail to fit each of your fingers, Then, working one finger at a time, apply a thin layer of glue to the back of the artificial nail and to your corresponding natural nail, then press. Within minutes, you’ll have beautifully dressed-up nails that are as ready to celebrate as you are.
I wore these on air and couldn’t stop staring at them — that’s how gorgeous they are! Here’s a close-up photo so you can see for yourself:
This is just one of the many KISS Nails options you’ll find at Dollar General, so make sure to check out the selection at your nearest store!
KISS MINK EFFECT LASHES
Eyes without lashes are like cake without frosting ,right? Well, you can add the perfect finishing touch to sweeten up your look with the KISS Mink Effect Lashes, which are lightweight and have a 3D volume look, plus, they feature a knot-free lash band that’s reusable up to 10 times.
At Dollar General, you’ll find a number of KISS Lashes in different styles. For maximum impact, I suggest picking up the KISS Mink Effect Lashes in Heiress ($4 at Dollar General), shown above. To apply, you align the band with your natural lash line and trim any excess. Next, you apply a thin line of adhesive along the lash band and let it set for 20 seconds. Finally, you can apply the lash strip along your natural lash line and hold for 60 seconds to secure in place. After that, you’re ready to flutter those lashes flirtatiously!
IMPRESSIONS VANITY ILLUMINATED VANITY MIRRORS
When it comes to makeup application, lighting isn’t just important — it’s vital! To perfectly buff your eyeshadow, blend your contouring, and line your lips, you need to see every tiny detail of your reflection. Enter Impressions Vanity and its stunning illuminated vanity mirrors which are sure to brighten up your holiday season.
Impressions Vanity’s most beloved product, the Touch Pro LED Makeup Mirror is a one-of-a-kind personal mirror with modern features such as dimmable LED lighting, a 360-degree swivel so you can always achieve the perfect angle, and wireless Bluetooth speakers so you can wirelessly stream your favorite music or YouTube tutorials while getting dolled up. This best-selling mirror retails for $159, but it’s currently on sale for just $110 at ImpressionsVanity.com.
Next, if you want a mirror that’s as cute as you are, pick up the Hello Kitty LED Rechargeable Mirror ($99 at ImpressionedVanity.com). The mirror itself is shaped like everyone’s favorite feline, and that recognizable silhouette is outlined with a bright LED strip light that’s designed to last longer than traditional bulbs. And that’s not all! This purr-ty mirror also features a touch sensor that allows you to power the lights on and off and adjust the brightness, plus the base functions as a Qi wireless charging pad!
And if you’re low on space or have a lot of traveling on your agenda, you’ll love the sleek and compact design of the Touch Pad Mini Tri-Tone LED Makeup Mirror. This travel-friendly mirror has a slim design for easy storage, a rechargeable battery and 3 light settings: natural, cool, and warm. It retails for $42 and is on sale for $24.99 with free shipping at ImpressionsVanity.com
You can find these and over a hundred more options when you visit ImpressionsVanity.com — and through December 31st, you can take advantage of the brand’s holiday sale, with prices up to 75% off!
JAFRA ROYAL LUXURY EYESHADOW QUAD
Now that face masks have become a part of our everyday realities, many of us have had to adjust our makeup routines accordingly. For many, that’s meant focusing less on lipsticks and blush, and turning to the eye area as the primary canvas for self-expression and creativity. After all, even if half our faces are obscured by our face masks, we can still serve up a striking, dramatic, intense look through our choice of eyeshadow and mascara.
To create eye looks worthy of a Queen Bee, check out the JAFRA Royal Luxury Eyeshadow Quad ($40 at JAFRA.com), which is available in four shades: Purple Reign, Carnet Goddess, Sterling Smoke, and Golden Muse. Each elegant black-and-gold palette contains four coordinating powder eyeshadows that are blendable and buildable — each featuring an embossed bee design. Beyond delivering vibrant, high-performance color, these eyeshadows are designed soothe and nourish the eye area. A marriage of skincare and makeup principles, these eyeshadows are infused with JAFRA’s exclusive Royal Jelly RJx technology, which multiplies the natural skin-rejuvenating benefits of royal jelly.
What exactly is royal jelly and what does it do? Well, royal jelly is a secretion from the glands of worker bees that is used to nourish larvae. What’s so regal about that? Well, get this: if the hive determines that a particular bee is poised to become a queen, that “chosen” bee is bathed in royal jelly throughout its development and, after the larval stage, the newly-crowned queen bee is fed royal jelly exclusively for the remainder of its days. Studies indicate that this exclusive diet of royal jelly has a profound effect on the development of queen bees, particularly from the standpoint of epigenetics.
Rich in vitamins B, C, and E, as well as amino and fatty acids, minerals, and antioxidants., royal jelly has countless skin benefits. It’s hydrating and nourishing, plus it boasts antibacterial properties, making it effective in clarifying skin and healing wounds, as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, because of its antioxidant content, royal jelly works wonders to fend off free radicals that contribute to premature aging. It’s a busy bee of an ingredient, right? And, of course, JAFRA’s exclusive Royal Jelly RJx technology boosts the power, potency and precision of royal jelly, helping skin better resist visible aging signs.
JOAH BEAUTY “BETTER THAN THE BEST” LINE-UP
We’ve already established that looking fabulous doesn’t have to cost a fortune, right? Well, to further bring home the point, allow me to introduce you to JOAH Beauty, a young cosmetics brand in the KISS Products family that specializes in high-performance, cruelty-free, prestige-quality cosmetics that are truly affordable. True to the Korean-American heritage of the KISS Products brand, JOAH Beauty embraces many of the K-beauty principles we’ve come to know and love — including a skin-centric approach to makeup.
How well do JOAH Beauty products stand up when compared to some of their pricier “luxury” counterparts? Well, JOAH Beauty has an entire line-up of products that it dubs “Better Than The Best” due to the fact that, in independent blind testing, each of the six products in this line-up was preferred to the No. 1 prestige product in its corresponding category. In other words, when pitted against the top-selling product in its category, each of these products beat the competition.
Though there are six products in the “Better Than The Best” line-up, I focused on 3 in particular: the JOAH Beauty Lash Uprising Volumizing Lengthening and Mascara, the JOAH Beauty Glassify High Shine Lip Gloss, and the JOAH Beauty Brow Down To Me Precision Brow Pencil.
A revolutionary mascara with a volume-boosting brush, the JOAH Beauty Lash Uprising Volumizing Lengthening and Mascara ($8.99 at JOAHBeauty.com, CVS.com, and select CVS locations) features an ultra-light, buildable formula that dramatically lengthens, lifts, conditions and strengthens lashes. The mascara is available in Black, Blackest Black, and Waterproof Blackest Black.
Next, the JOAH Beauty Glassify High Shine Lip Gloss ($6.99 at JOAHBeauty.com, CVS.com, and select CVS locations) leaves lips flaunting a vinyl-like sheen — whether worn on its own or layered over lipstick. But, unlike other lip glosses that feel overly sticky and tacky, this one boasts a pleasantly smooth, comfortable, non-sticky texture. And, true to the brand’s skin-centric approach, the formula is infused with hydrating and softening avocado oil and vitamin E. The lip gloss is available in 10 shades including Sunkissed, Princess Cut, Fairy Dust, and Ice Queen.
Finally, the JOAH Beauty Brow Down To Me Precision Brow Pencil ( $8.99 at JOAHBeauty.com, CVS.com, and select CVS locations) will help you accentuate, define, and perfect your arches. The smudge-proof, long-wearing pencil features an ultra-fine tip that creates hair-like strokes, allowing you to fill and shape brows as needed, while the spoolie brush smooths brows into place. The brow pencil is available in 6 shades including Cool Brown, Cool Taupe, Medium Brown, and Black Brown.
REVLON ONE-STEP HAIR DRYER AND VOLUMIZER
When we think of Hollywood glamour, the images dancing in our heads usually involve an iconic hairstyle: Veronica Lake’s deep side part and voluptuous waves, Brigette Bardot’s half-up bouffant, Farrah Fawcett’s feathered strands, and so on. And while these fashion icons may have had experts tending to their tresses, you can create your own legendary looks right at home with one magical and easy-to-use tool: the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer.
This best-selling, award-winning tool was designed to deliver volume and shine in a single step, allowing you to enjoy a salon-quality blowout in up to half the time — right from the comfort of home. The unique oval brush features gently curved sides for smoothing hair and eliminating frizz and flyaways while the rounded edges help add volume at the root, and allow you to curl ends.
For a limited time, the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer is in the Holiday Red shade pictured above. It retails for $69.99 and is available exclusively at Walmart and Amazon.
OGX EXTRA STRENGTH & REVITALIZE + ARGAN OIL OF MOROCCO MULTI-BENEFIT HAIRSPRAY
Now that you’ve discovered your new go-to hair styling too, it’s time to gather some styling essentials. I suggest prepping your strands with some great hair styling products from OGX. All OGX products contain no parabens, silicones, sulfate surfactans, gluten, synthetic dyes, ALES, SLS, or animal byproducts. Instead, OGX products incorporate exotic, nature-inspired active ingredients that unleash your hair’s potential to shine, move, curl, and bounce. And here’s the kicker: every single OGX product retails for under $10 and is available at drugstores as well as online at Amazon.com, Target.com, Walgreens.com, and more.
One of my go-to products before blow-drying my hair is the OGX Extra Strength Shine & Revitalize +Argan Oil of Morocco Multi-Benefit Hair Spray. Infused with argan oil and silk proteins, this multi-purpose spray offers heat protection and anti-frizz benefits, plus it delivers silky softness, shine, and a gentle hold.
OGX LOCKING + COCONUT CURLS DECADENT CREAMY MOUSSE
And, when I want to rock my curl freely rather than straighten my strands, I reach for th the OGX Locking + Coconut Curls Decadent Creamy Mouse. Part mousse and part cream, this yummy-smelling product is infused with nourishing coconut oil and shea butter to condition, define, defrizz, and amplify curls.
