The Black Dress Traveler

Glam on the Go: Beauty Products for Travelers

Whether you are commuting to work or jetsetting around the globe, the right beauty products are a must. The best products multi-task, take up minimal space, and leave you looking and feeling fabulous. Here are a few glam goodies worth adding to your beauty regimen.

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream SPF 35
$39
This amazing little 5-in-1 cream is my new favorite. BB (Beauty Balm) creams have been popular in Asia for years and they are now making a big splash on the American beauty scene. Instead of layering on several different products, just use Smashbox Camera Ready BB cream to moisturize, protect from the sun, control oil, even out the skin, and prime it.  I love the convenience and economics of one cream that offers so much. You can wear it alone for a sheer & natural look or top it off with foundation or powder for more coverage.

Jouer SPF 15 Lip Sheer
$22
My Grandmother taught me to never leave the house without lipstick and earrings so I feel naked (and disobedient!)when my lips are completely bare. But I don't always want a heavy coat of lipstick on my pucker and lip balm alone just doesn't cut it for me. Jouer Sheer Lip SPF 15 gives lips a nice subtle hint of color and locks in moisture with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E. And, the SPF 15 sun protection is an important plus. The 4 shades are named after some of the most desirable vacation spots on the planet - Capri, St. Barths, St. Tropez, and Positano.

SKINDINAVIA Makeup Finishing Spray
$19-$39
If you want your perfectly applied makeup to last all day, set it with SKINDINAVIA. Hypoallergenic and oil-free, SKINDINAVIA was used by Lady Gaga and Britney Spears during their 2011 tours to keep their makeup in place. Designed to hold makeup perfectly for 16 hours, SKINDINAVIA is great for those days when you re-doing your face just isn't an option. SKINDINAVIA is available in several different formulas, including No More Shine and Moisture Lock. Set your makeup in New York and land in Paris looking fabulous!

Bye Bye Bad Hair Days, Hello Shuly Collection Custom Wigs

What do these gorgeous ladies have in common? They're all wearing a Shuly Wig!

Come on ladies, we've all been there - at the right place, in the perfect dress, but our hair was just so wrong! It may seem trivial but a bad hair day can really put a gal in a not-so-pretty mood. With the exception of the jheri curl (I will be eternally grateful to my Mom for vetoing that desire), I've probably had every hair style under the sun - braids, natural, relaxed, weaves, twists, and everything in between. I've even experimented with wigs but I've been dismayed at how fake they can look and how uncomfortable they can feel.


A Shuly wig on her head and one in her hand - lucky girl!


Inspired by proud wig wearing celebs, like talk-show host Wendy Williams, more women are wearing wigs and no longer feel embarrassed about it. And, if you're really serious, you'll follow Wendy's lead and invest in an exceptional wig by Shuly.

I was recently invited to a press event in NYC to meet Shuly and her fabulous wigs. I was so impressed by the quality that I hopped the subway a week later to visit her showroom in Brooklyn and to try on a few more wigs. The quality of the hair is superb and I am amazed at how Shuly is able to get such fullness in a wig without it feeling heavy or uncomfortable.

I've been Shuly-fied! What do  you think of yours truly in a Shuly wig?

Shuly is a dynamic lady who started making wigs at her kitchen table. Today, she is one of the most sought after wigmakers in the industry. Although, her primary customer base has been Orthodox Jewish women who are required to wear a sheitel (wig) when they get married, news of Shuly's exceptional talent reached the fashion industry and her wigs have been featured in Essence, Elle, Vogue, and even the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. She has deftly navigated honoring her traditions while making wigs available to women of all cultures and faiths. Although the motivations may be different, during our conversation Shuly stated that at the end of the day all women want to look beautiful. So true!



Shuly Wigs start at about $850 but with proper upkeep they can last 3-6 years - a great investment. Each wig is made from the finest natural hair from Europe or South America and comes with a one-year limited warranty. Unlike wigs you may pick up at the local beauty supply, Shuly Wigs are customized to your head so the fit is perfect. And, you can always make adjustments to your wig, such as adding highlights and layers. While I was at the Shuly showroom, I observed several women from the neighborhood dropping off their wigs to be washed and styled. I love the idea of sending my hair out for styling! And, with a Shuly wig, you'll never have to worry about a bad hair day while you are on vacation.


Shuly Wigs is located in Brooklyn at 4016 18th Avenue. For more information, visit their website.

Glamour on the Go: Travel Friendly Beauty Products

I've always been a little bit of a rebel, but I still heed my Grandma Bertha's advice to never leave the house without lipstick and earrings! Whether you are commuting to work or jetsetting to your dream destination, a little bit of glamour makes everything better!

GIVE Scent
$48
When I opened up my bottle of GIVE for the first time and sniffed the beguiling blend of spicy vanilla and citrus with notes of amber, bergamot, and musk I said, "ooh, this is niiiiiice!" and immediately dabbed it on. GIVE is a distinctive and pretty scent that is truly captivating without being overwhelming - a flirty fragrance with staying power.

GIVE was inspired by yoga teacher Elena Brower's time in Italy where she discovered a Sicilian almond oil blend that moved her to create a fragrance of her own. GIVE is made with pure oils and a portion of the proceeds benefit Women for Women International, an organization that supports female survivors of war and conflict with the tools and resources to move from crisis and poverty to stability and self-sufficiency. GIVE scent really lives up to the name!


29 Reserves Moisturizing Lipstick available at Cake Plate Boutique and online
$25
Napa Valley is nirvana for wine lovers but it is also an up-and-coming spot for beauty and fashion. Wine country fashionistas have made Cake Plate Boutique their go-to-spot for all things fashionable. Located in downtown Napa Valley, Cake Plate offers sweet designs from coveted labels like Milly, Trina Turk, and Lauren Moffatt - they even have their own sheath dress collection called CP by Cake Plate.




Of course, makeup is the finishing touch to any ensemble and Cake Plate now sells 29 Cosmetics. Founded by Lydia Mondavi (if you drink wine, you know Mondavi), 29 Cosmetics are infused with grape seed extract. A powerful anti-oxidant, the grape seed extract is a natural byproduct of the Mondavi's winemaking. The lipsticks and glosses have wine inspired names such as Wine Critic, Reserve Red, and Stompin' Grapes. I was sent a sample of the 29 Reserves Moisturizing Lipstick in Napa Juice and I'm impressed. The color is luscious and the lipstick feels very moisturizing. Another plus, 29 Reserves lipstick has SPF 20 to protect your pretty pucker from the sun's rays. Wondering about the name 29 Cosmetics? Highway 29 is the road that runs through Napa Valley.


Benefit Hello Flawless Custom Powder Cover-Up
$34
I am always searching for the perfect foundation and I have been pretty loyal to Cover FX but I must confess to my very enjoyable affair with Benefit's Hello Flawless. Perfect for travel, Hello Flawless delivers great and natural looking coverage in a no-mess compact. Included is a brush for sheer coverage and a sponge for more intense coverage. And, the added SPF 15 makes me very happy!

Music & Manicures: Deborah Lippmann Deck the Halls Jazz CD & Nail Lacquer Set

 

Did you know that manicurist to the stars Deborah Lippmann is also a jazz singer? Just in time for the holidays, Ms. Lippmann has merged her love of music and manicures together in this limited edition set available exclusively at HSN for $34.50. The shades are named after her favorite holiday songs, so you can paint your nails in Angels We Have Heard On High (red), Deck the Halls (red glitter), and O' Holy Night (iridescent light-blue green) while listening to Deborah belt out holiday classics a capella.

Deborah said, "Christmas is my favorite time of year; it’s all about family, love and light, and reflecting on the things that are most important to you! I’ve always loved the holidays, and for the last 40 years, have gone caroling every Christmas Eve with my dear friend and music producer, Darrell Brown. We grew up together in Arizona and would visit the fire house, the attorney general, soup kitchens, trailer parks, and our friends’ homes. It seemed only right that my caroling right-hand man would produce this album for me."

Are you wondering if Lippmann can really sing? Cher (yes, Cher!) said, "I loved her pure, distinctive voice, both strong and defined, and her ability to make every song special... Deborah Lippmann is a special voice with music in her soul."

And, Deborah Lippmann nail lacquer is a fave of some pretty famous women - Kate Winslet, Reese Witherspoon, Renee Zellweger, and Penelope Cruz were all manicured by Deborah and wore nail polish from her collection when they accepted their Oscar. Very impressive!

Pretty Please!: Beauty Products That Keep You Looking Fabulous, Anytime & Anywhere

Whether you are jetsetting across the Atlantic or commuting on the crosstown bus, we all want to look our best. Here are a few products that make it easy to feel great and turn heads wherever you go!

For a lip gloss with a little something extra, try Lip Savvy ($18). Available in 22 shades and prints, these anti-aging and plumping glosses deliver more than just gorgeous color. Lip Savvy's unique multi-tasking formula offers free radical protection, collagen-boosting properties, and ingredients that are proven to hydrate, painlessly plump lips, and prevent premature signs of aging. And, the packaging is so clever - Lip Savvy glosses are packaged in easy-to-tote pens that are available in a variety of colorful prints to match your mood and your taste.

The next time you are trying to smile your way into an upgrade, dazzle surly airline personnel with your sparkling smile! Now, I am one of those weird people who actually enjoys going to the dentist (hi, Dr. Rosenthal) and I am a tad fanatical about maintenance ( I keep a travel toothbrush and paste in my purse.) So, you can probably guess that I was a little more excited than the average person might be when I was invited to try Dentisse. Developed by two dental scientists, Dentisse Premium Oral Care Products use natural ingredients to guarantee shinier and whiter teeth within 2 weeks, fresh breath, and less plaque and tartar buildup. The Dentisse Natural Reflection Toothpaste ($16.99) uniquely incorporates white kaolin clay to gently polish teeth. And, I love the fact that the Dentisse Natural Solution Oral Rinse ($14.99) is alcohol-free but contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera and baking soda. I've been using Dentisse for about one week now and I like the taste and my teeth do feel great and look all sparkly after brushing and rinsing. The product is on the expensive side but I could see myself splurging on Dentisse - it is such a luxurious way to start and end the day.

We all have beauty secrets that have been passed down through the generations but I doubt you can beat the longevity of Santa Maria Novella! Started by Dominican monks in 1210 to dispense their remedies to the nobles and royalty across Europe, Santa Maria Novella is the oldest apothecary in the world. They opened their doors to the public in 1612 and Santa Maria Novella's  products are still meticulously handmade according to recipes that are centuries old. All ingredients are local and organic and all products are made on site in the Florentine workrooms as much as possible. To keep your lips soft and smooth, try their lip moisturizer ($30) - it is rich in natural ingredients like castor oil, apricot kernel oil, grape seed oil, and rosemary extract.

After a bad burn during a eyebrow waxing, I am reluctant to let anyone holding a vat of hot wax near my brows. Occasionally, I will treat these wild brows of mine to a threading but I generally prefer to tame these babies at home. Sally Hansen makes it so easy to keep brows arched and beautiful. The Now Brow kit ($9.49) contains scissors and a shaper comb/brush that make it a breeze to trim and define your brows into the perfect shape. Here's a great brow tip from renowned makeup artist Carmindy, co-creator of Sally Hansen Natural Beauty and author of Crazy Busy Beautiful - if your brows grow straight down, use a curved pair of cuticle scissors and snip them from underneath into perfect shape.

In the Bag: Flight Friendly Beauty Products

Thanks to the TSA's insistence on punishing keeping us safe from dangerous amounts of lotions and potions, deciding which beauty products to cram into that darn ZipLock bag always stresses me out before I fly. Here are a few great products that have earned their frequent flyer miles and will keep you TSA compliant.

Yes to Blueberries Daily Repairing Moisturizer with SPF 30
$19.99
Don't let the silly name fool you - Yes to Blueberries delivers serious results. This affordable moisturizer has completely exceeded my expectations - it is gentle yet leaves your face hydrated and protected from the sun's UVA and UVB rays. Unlike most moisturizers with SPF, Yes To Blueberries imparts the skin with a natural matte finish, no greasy shine. It also has some anti-aging benefits - the blueberries help fight external skin damage and the organic cotton thistle boosts natural collagen production. Moisture, sun protection, and anti-aging - Yes to Blueberries has hit the travel trifecta with this product!

Schick Intuition Razor with Renewing Moisture
$9.99 at Drugstore.com
No need take up space in your bag with shaving cream - this ingenious little razor is encased in a Skin Conditioning Solid that lathers, shaves and moisturizes. I tried the pleasantly scented Renewing Moisture with pomegranate extract and loved the results. The Intuition has 4 blades and a pivoting head that follows your contours for a silky smooth shave. Very affordable at $9.99, each pack contains 2 refill cartridges, shower hanger and travel cap. Also available in Advanced Moisture with Shea Butter, Sensitive Care with Aloe and Vitamin E, and Soothing Moisture with Milk and Honey.

Laura Mercier HydraTint SPF 15
$20
This portable product keeps your lips moist, protected from the sun, and enhanced with a subtle hint of color. Another added benefit - it is formulated with breath-freshening mint and orange.

Oscar Blandi Pronto Invisible Volumizing Dry Shampoo Spray 
$11 at 3flOz.com
No water around to freshen up your tresses? No worries, just spritz on this innovative dry shampoo from hair guru Oscar Blandi. It sprays on clear but uses gentle starches to absorb oil and product build-up while protecting hair with Vitamin E and wheat.

Get More Gorgeous! Makeup Tips from Celebrity Makeup Artist Sonia Kashuk

If you are an habitué of Target like yours truly, then you are very familiar with Sonia Kashuk's incredible line of affordable yet luxurious cosmetics. Sonia launched her eponymous line at Target in 1999, making her the first make-up artist brand available to the masses. She is a true trailblazer in the beauty world.

I'm pretty predictable when it comes to my makeup routine: powder foundation for coverage and to reduce shine, mascara, and lip color. If I'm feeling really wild, I will add a little shimmery eyeshadow and some blush. Yep, I'm in a makeup rut so I jumped at the opportunity to attend a makeup master class hosted by Sonia. All of us brave ladies (including Sonia) wiped away our makeup and began with a clean canvas. Here are a few of my favorite products and tips gleaned from the sensational Sonia.

Prime It or Lose It - I never really bought into the whole makeup primer thing but Sonia presented a compelling case for her Primer Vitamin Serum ($17.99). Think of primer as insurance for your makeup to make sure that your foundation lasts. Like the name implies, Primer Vitamin Serum contains skin-friendly vitamins C, E and B. It also has salicylic acid which promotes cell turnover. Apply the primer after your moisturizer for a smooth and longer-lasting finish.

Lash Out - Mascara is a must-have and Sonia Kashuk's LASHIFY makes long pretty lashes a cinch. Very travel-friendly, one end of the LASHIFY case contains mascara and the other has a lash comb. Tip from Sonia: Skip mascara on your bottom lashes, it tends to make your eye area look dragged down instead of lifted and alert. And, always curl your lashes before applying mascara.

Blushing Beauty - I have a friend who insists that every woman over the age of 30 must wear blush. Maybe she has a point. Blush does instantly brighten up the face and enhances cheek bones. The secret is to find a subtle color that makes you look naturally flushed and not like a drag queen. Beautifying Blush ($6.99) is available in six flattering shades.

P.S. Sonia, has a great team of makeup artists working with her but I want to send a special thank you to the amazingly talented (and devastatingly handsome) Edward Cruz. Edward did my makeup a few months ago at another Sonia Kashuk event and helped me to fine tune the look you see in this photo. Gracias Edward! xoxo

Celebrity Hair, Everyday Prices: Sally Hershberger Hair Care

Whether you are sunbathing on the beach or window shopping down city streets, the summer heat can really take a toll on your hair. Moisture rich sprays make it easy to keep your tresses healthy and hydrated at home and on the road. 

Sally Hershberger Hyper Hydration Spray
$12.50
Does the name Sally Hershberger sound familiar to you? Not only is she the iconic stylist that gave Meg Ryan her much copied messy chic shag, Hershberger was the first New York City stylist to charge $600 for a haircut! Thank goodness, you can get some of Sally's magic without breaking the bank - her eponymous line of affordable haircare products are available at drugstores and beauty supply stores around the country.

I was given a sample of the Sally Hershberger Hyper Hydration Spray and love the versatilty of this product. Spritz it on wet hair after washing or use it on dry hair for instant moisture. It also offers protection from heat styling on those days when you just can't say no to your flat iron. It also tames frizz and flyaways. Loaded with keratin and silk, it is a perfect option for dry, damaged and color-treated hair. This product really works on all hair types. Sally calls Hyper Hydration "rehab for stressed out locks." Love it! 

Happy 100th Birthday NIVEA!

Does it seem like NIVEA has been around forever? Well, at 100 years old, this world famous skin cream in the elegant blue tin is aging gracefully. Classic but always evolving, today the NIVEA portfolio has greatly expanded and includes bath, body and lip care for men and women. (I'm a big fan of their body washes - they smell delicious and are so moisturizing.)

I was recently invited to help NIVEA celebrate their centennial at a special pop-up 100 Year House in New York's City Grand Central Station. Celebrity spokesperson Giuliana Rancic was in attendance and shared her memories of growing up as a little girl in Naples and watching her mom care for her skin with NIVEA. It was great to hear from a celebrity who actually has a history with the product they were promoting! And, Giuliana shared a surprising beauty tip - pat a little NIVEA under your eyes for a great eye cream.




Giuliana Rancic

If you are in NYC and passing through Grand Central, take a few moments to visit the NIVEA 100 Year House and get pampered with a complimentary hand massage, pop by the Skin Education Station for a skin analysis, and enjoy some free samples. You can even enter a contest to win some tickets to see Rihanna in concert.  The NIVEA 100 Year House will be open until July 29th from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM and is a perfect little time out from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple.

The Perfect At-Home Pedicure: Emjoi MicroPedi & Dr.'s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish

Confession:I detest, loath, and downright dislike going to the salon for pedicures. Call me crazy, but I find it nearly impossible to relax while a total stranger is doing all manner of things to my feet in exchange for money. The harder they scrub at my calloused heels, the worst I feel and I find myself clumsily apologizing for the sorry state of my feet and leaving an obscenely large tip to make up for my tough tootsies! No darlings, no salon pedicures for me if I can help it. Who needs the stress?

But I do love to pamper my feet at home, preferably while sipping a nice glass of wine and listening to some Bossa Nova, and I am always on the lookout for products that deliver great results. The Emjoi MicroPedi and Dr.'s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish are two wonderful new products that I was invited to review.

The battery-operated Emjoi MicroPedi is really fun to use and does a stellar job of quickly and painlessly removing calloused skin. Completely portable, just insert two AA batteries (not included) into the Emjoi MicroPedi, switch it on, glide the roller across your soles and heels, and voila, within seconds dry hard skin is buffed away into a fine powder and your feet are left silky smooth. The Emjoi MicroPedi includes two different rollers (blue for extra-coarse skin and magenta for coarse) that spin 360 degrees at a speedy 30 times a second so it does a much better and faster job than pumice stones that require you to scrub your heart out. Thanks to Emjoi, I will finally toss out that awful metal scraper that I've been using. You can order the Emjoi MicroPedi on their website for $39.95 and starting in September it will be available in retail stores across the country, including ULTA and Sally Beauty. Apparently, this product has been a huge hit in the UK - 10,000 Emjoi MicroPedi units were sold-out on QVC in less than 24 hours.

Now that my feet are all smooth, my toenails are just begging for color. Dr.'s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish sent over their collection of 5 new summer shades and I am having a blast experimenting with all of the gorgeous colors. Developed by 2 New York based podiatrists, Dr.'s Remedy doesn't just make your nails look pretty but keeps them healthy - the polish has none of the bad ingredients that can leave your nails brittle and discolored. The first-ever nail polish on the market approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, Dr.'s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish is free of harsh toxins and enriched with naturally occurring antifungal ingredients like tea tree oil. garlic bulb extract, vitamins C & E, and wheat protein. In addition to the sizzling hot summer shades, Dr.'s Remedy has a great collection of rich and long-lasting colors. You can purchase Dr.'s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish for $17 each on their website.

So, please take a peek at my feet if you see me around town this week - they are baby smooth and my toes are painted in GLEE Gold! Thanks Emjoi and Dr.'s Remedy.

Get Smooth Summer Skin with Brazilian Peel Clear

Ah, these sultry summer rays lift our spirits but they can also increase our skin's oil production and leave us with pesky pimples. If you are looking for a grown-up and gentle yet effective way to treat summer breakouts, you may want to consider Brazilian Peel Clear ($60 at Sephora.) The 2-step treatment gets the gunk out of your pores with 35% glycolic acid, natural Brazilian acai berry essence, and salicylic acid. The $60 may seem pricey but this kit will last you 30 days - use the peel once a week and the booster pads daily.

If pimples aren't an issue for you, give the original Brazilian Peel ($78) a try for instant brightening, smoothing and firming. Praised by Allure, Latina, InStyle and other fashion mags, it is the first professional strength, self-neutralizing glycolic peel that is proven clinically safe for at-home use.

Easy breezy Brazilian beauty!

Gorgeous on the Go: Beauty Products Worth Packing

Finally, I am getting to escape the Big Apple for a few days - I am heading on a jaunt to Boston next week for a little business and mucho pleasure! In addition to planning out my itinerary (museums, meals, and music) and selecting some pretty frocks, I am paying careful attention to what beauty products to bring. Here are a few of my at-home favorites that are definitely worth packing. Give them a try!

ProSilk Hair Smoothing Shine Enhancer with Silk Serums
$19.95
ProSilk Serum is nothing less than fantastic. When I received a sample, I honestly did not have high expectations - I figured it was just another sticky serum that would weigh my my hair down and leave it way too shiny. Au contraire - I have tried just about every serum on the market and ProSilk has quickly moved up the list as my new favorite.

The texture is lightweight, silky, and imparts a subtle shine. Somehow, it manages to smooth your hair without weighing it down - your hair will still move. And, ProSilk works well on ALL hair types - and it is really good on hair extensions. Beyond making your tresses look great, ProSilk helps fill in the voids on the cuticle layer by strengthening and bonding hair inside and outside. If you use a flat iron or other heat appliances, ProSilk will protect your tresses from the heat. It also has UV protection. You can even use ProSilk on your body. The scent is great too - ProSilk Silk Serum has a subtle aroma of fresh melon.


Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
$50
I received a sample size of Dermalogica Daily Microfolient in a gift bag a few weeks ago. Did I like it? Well, yesterday I made a trip to their store in Soho (NYC) to shell out 50 bucks to buy my own! Yes, it is a little pricey but the results are worth it. And, this bottle should last about a year - a great return on investment!

Unlike most scrubs, Dermalogica Microfolient does not feel at all harsh - you won't feel any little beads rubbing against your skin. It is a very fine powder that you shake into your wet hands and it turns into a creamy paste. Massage it into your face for a minute and voila - smooth, soft skin. It is gentle enough to use daily after your regular cleanser. The powder may look simple but it is packed full of powerful ingredients like, Salicylic Acid, Rice Enzymes, Green Tea and Licorice Root Extract, that calm the skin and balance out uneven pigmentation.

Cover FX Powder FX Pressed Mineral Powder Foundation SPF 10
$35
About 2 months ago, I stormed into Sephora seeking the perfect powder foundation. Just a few days prior, I had shelled out $45 on a well-known brand that did not deliver - no coverage, chalky, and no oil control. When the salesperson pointed me towards Cover FX, I balked. I had never heard of it and it just didn't sound chic or sexy. Well, it may not be stylish but this Powder FX delivers. If you have oily and sensitive skin like mine, Cover FX provides natural coverage, absorbs oil, and protects skin with SPF 10. They have a shade to match virtually every skin tone. A little bit goes a long way and the pressed powder format is perfect for travel.

Keeping the Peace: Products That Make a Difference

Sadly, it has become a cliche but it WOULD be great if we could all just get along. Conflicts at home and abroad can make it easy to feel fatalistic about the fate of the world. I often avoid watching the news just before bedtime because their macabre menu featuring the violence du jour often leads to a restless slumber.

This is why I get so excited when I hear about people and companies that are doing their part to bring some peace into the world. These affordable goodies from Peace Cord and Kiss My Face make it easy to do a little something to make the world a better place.

Peace Cord Bracelets
$10-$15
Wear your heart on your wrist with a Peace Cord Bracelet. Woven by Afghan women from parachute cord and military uniform buttons, 100% of the  proceeds support grassroots programs  in rural Afghanistan. Peace Cord™ creates artisan jobs for hundreds of Afghan women and helps U.S. troops deliver grassroots humanitarian assistance.

Kiss My Face Travel Size Peace Soap
$2.99
Ahh, wash away your troubles and help make the world a better place with Kiss My Face's fragrant and 100% all natural peace soap. 10% of the proceeds from this product benefit Seeds of Peace - an organization that helps young people from regions of conflict develop the leadership skills necessary to advance reconciliation and co-existence. Seeds of Peace currently has 4,300 young people making a positive difference in the Middle East, South Asia, Cyprus, the Balkans, and the United States.

Available in four scents, including Lavender Mandarin and Pomegranate Acai, Kiss My Face Peace Soap is a travel-friendly product that can be used from head to toe and also to hand wash your clothes. The packaging is even educational - it features the word peace in many different languages.

In The Bag: Stylish Essentials for Ladies on the Go

Did you pay to check your luggage last year? If so, the airlines owe you a box of bonbons and an upgrade because in 2010 they made a record $3.4 billion from baggage fees! Unbelievable.

Now more than ever, air travel is not just about packing light but packing smart. With the right carry-on bag, gadgets, and toiletries, it is possible to fit all of your essentials in a carry-on. Here are a few fun and functional items that will keep your hard-earned money in your wallet and away from the greedy airlines!

Lug Life Shuttle Bus Weekender Wheelie Bag
$139.99 at eBags
A cute and functional bag can make all the difference between travel bliss and a world of stress. Available in nine colors, this carry-on has tons of pockets, including a separate compartment for your shoes.

MBeze Natural Deoderettes 
$10
Who knew deodorant could be so chic? Don't let the pretty packaging fool you - MBeze Natural Deoderettes keep you smelling fresh as you're dashing through the terminal to make your flight. Available in 10 scents, including fragrance-free, MBeze are made with all natural and organic ingredients. Other travel-friendly goodies in the MBeze line include Dabber Dust Natural Underarm Powder ($6), and Roll On Perfume.  I've been enjoying my samples of these great products.

Dermalogica Solar Defense Wipes SPF 15
$22
No matter where you travel, sunscreen is a must. Dermalogica's pre-moistened sunscreen wipes can be used on your face and body for easy, no mess protection from the sun's rays.

Travelite Luggage Scale with LED Flashlight
$24.85
Ok, let's face it - sometimes, no matter how hard we fight it, bags have to be checked. Ugh. This clever little scale helps you avoid excess baggage fees by giving you the exact weight of your luggage and can weigh bags up to 100 lbs. The built-in flashlight is a great feature. I actually won this scale from the blog Apples & Rubies -  thanks -  looking forward to using it on my next trip!

SweetRiot 100% Dark Cacao Nibs Dunked in 50% Dark Chocolate
$19.99 for a Three Pack
Don't argue with me, dark chocolate is a must. Feeling stressed on the road? Nibble on these satisfying little drops of goodness to rev up your endorphins. Packaged in a reusable tin, SweetRiot candies are all-natural and sourced from Latin America. Each piece only has 1-2 calories - just 140 calories per tin!

Is Your Smile Travel Ready?

Yes, I am that weird lady that you've seen in the powder room brushing her teeth at a fancy restaurant after a particularly rich meal. I am just a tad obsessed with taking care of my teeth and always keep a travel toothbrush and small tube of toothpaste in my makeup bag. Who doesn't love a nice smile? When I am traveling, a friendly smile from someone else can make all the difference. And, I have found that offering someone a smile is an ultra effective way of communicating. Really, do you think that the ticketing agent is going to upgrade the snarling passenger or the pleasant one with a smile? Here are a few things you can do to keep your smile picture perfect at home or on the road.

Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips
Suggested retail price: $54.99 (each kit contains 4 treatments)
Jetting out of town and your pearly whites are looking a little lackluster? You can literally apply Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips before you board the plane and land with a brighter smile. The thin and flexible strips are coated with a peroxide infused gel that safely whiten teeth in just 2 hours and the dazzling results will last up to three months. Each kit contains 4 treatments. I gave these a try yesterday and was very pleased with the results - my teeth felt nice and clean and were definitely whiter. I plan on using these every 3 months. Use these before your next vacation and your smile will be the star of every photo!


Supersmile Quikee
$16
I also keep a tube of Supersmile Quikee in my makeup bag - it is great for those moments when you need more than a breath mint but can't get to your toothbrush. This mint flavored paste is designed to instantly remove stains and freshen breath - no rinsing required. You just apply a pearl sized drop to your teeth and smooth it across with your tongue until completely dissolved. Easy breezy brilliant smile!

Marvis Travel Size Toothpaste, Classic Strong Mint
$4.50
This is the queen of peppermint toothpaste - from garlic to gin, it knocks out bad breath in an instant. Imported from Italy, this pretty little tube of toothpaste is the one I carry for those on-the-go brushing sessions.

PS. Wondering what to do if you chip your tooth while traveling? According to Women's Health Magazine, "for a small chip, use an emery board to file down sharp edges, just as you do to fingernail. Since cracked tooth enamel can leave nerves exposed, if you feel pain you can temporarily seal the area with Krazy Glue. For bigger chips, put broken tooth pieces in a container filled with cold milk; the sugar compounds can keep tooth cells alive for 72 hours."  

 

Get Green & Gorgeous: Beauty Products that Won't Harm the Planet

Many of us will go to extreme lengths to look our best but even us die hard beauty addicts are drawing the line, whenever possible, at products that harm the planet. Beauty shouldn't make you feel guilty. Here are a few products that will leave you pretty without harming the grandest diva of them all - Mother Nature.

Beauty Without Cruelty

The first company to bring awareness to the issue of animals being used to test cosmetics, Beauty Without Cruelty offers a complete line of cosmetics and personal care products made with certified organic ingredients and without animal testing and animal ingredients.

I was recently sent samples of two Beauty Without Cruelty products: the Fragrance Free Body Care Hand & Body Lotion ($11.95) and the Aromatherapy Hair Care Daily Benefits Shampoo

($10.95).

 The lotion may lack fragrance but it is chock full of potent moisturizers like Aloe Vera, Jojoba Oil, and Kukui Nut Oil. The other benefit of a fragrance free lotion is that you don't have to worry about it interfering with any other scents that you wear. Regarding the shampoo, my hair is so dry that I am always skeptical of shampoos that proclaim that they are effective for all hair types. However, I compared the ingredients of the Beauty Without Cruelty shampoo to the brands I regularly use and was happy to see that it contained many of the same ingredients like panthenol, sage, aloe, and rosemary. Beauty Without Cruelty offers many of their products in travel sizes, so go ahead and give their goodies a try. At $2.99 each for the travel sizes, the price is right and the quality is superb.

 

 

 

Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel Full Strength
$45
My skin has been looking a little sluggish lately so I was thrilled when my BirchBox beauty sample included a sample of this Juice Beauty peel. I actually used it a few minutes ago while writing this. The peel contains certified organic apple, lemon, grape, raw cane sugar and willow bark and proclaims to deliver a spa-grade exfoliation. My face definitely feels smoother and baby soft and I expect that after a month or so of weekly use that the results will be impressive. I will definitely take this with me when I travel to give my face a pick me up after a long trip.

 

Yes To (Carrots, Cucumbers, Blueberries, and Tomatoes)
No, we aren't making a salad: Yes To harnesses the power of organic fruits and veggies to create a wide variety of face and body products. I'm a big fan of the Yes to Cucumbers and Yes to Blueberries facial towelettes. To celebrate Earth Week, Yes To will be offering 25% off ALL products site wide, through Sunday, April 24^th. Simply enter the promotion code EARTH when checking out.

The Ziplock Files: Five Terrific Travel Beauty Products

It feels like I have been praying and pouting for years as I wait for the TSA to abolish their requirement that all carry-on liquids be confined to a zip-top plastic bag and not exceed 3 ounces per item. Not to sound like a broken record but mascara is NOT the enemy. Until the rules change, we have no choice and better comply unless we want to be reduced to tears when our favorite fancy face cream is confiscated. Here are five terrific travel friendly beauty products that will be a great addition to your regimen at home and have earned a place in your carry-on when you travel.

Makeup For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation
$40
My skin is sensitive and oily, so finding the right foundation is always a challenge. I am having great results with this oil-free, medium to full coverage option from Makeup For Ever. Available in 25 shades, I love how lightweight this feels on my skin. The coverage is great without looking like a mask. Designed to make your skin look fantastic in bright or harsh lighting, this foundation will have you looking virtually flawless in unflattering airplane lighting and in all of your vacation photos.

Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti Sun Damage Daily Moisture Lotion
$13.49
This is a great daily moisturizer with the added benefit of SPF 28 to protect your face from sun damage. I often find that moisturizers with sunscreen leave my face looking way too shiny but Garnier Skin Renew gives it a nice healthy glow. It is also a great base for makeup. It is 99.9% oil free and contains skin friendly ingredients like lycopene, vitamin C and magnesium.

Ole Henriksen Truth to Go Wipes
$6 for 10 wipes, $15 for 30
Wipes can save the day on a long trip when your face needs refreshing. Enriched with green tea, CoQ10, Vitamin C and Micro Algae, these wipes clean and treat your skin. Ole Henriksen has been pampering celebs in his Hollywood spa for years and with these wipes you can give yourself a bit of the star treatment. No ziplock bag required to bring these on board!

KORRES Pomegranate Detoxifying Natural Clay Mask
$27
I love to put on a fluffy hotel robe, raid the mini bar, and give myself a facial when I travel. I use this mask once a week and it is very gentle but effective. Often clay  masks can leave your face feeling too dry and tight but this one leaves it smooth and soft. In addition to the oil-absorbing white argil clay, the lactic acid provides a gentle exfoliation.


TOPSHOP Nail Varnish Remover
$3 for 20 wipes ( available only in TOPSHOP stores, not online)
Chipped nail polish is not just annoying, it can look really tacky. These little pads from TOPSHOP are not only convenient but they are acetone free and enriched with Panthenol Pro-Vitamin B5 - very good for your nails. These pads work a little differently - you dab your nails, wait a few seconds and then wipe. The consistency is almost like a dry oil and once you remove the polish your nails are left with a nice sheen.

Win a Brush Set from the Sonia Kashuk Spring 2011 Makeup Collection for Target

On your next visit to Target to stock up on necessities for your next getaway, be sure to fill that red basket with some snazzy Sonia Kashuk makeup! Us Target devotees are very familiar with celebrity makeup artist Sonia Kashuk's signature cosmetics line that is sold exclusively at our favorite affordable store. Well ladies, Miss Sonia has really raised the bar for her Spring 2011 collection of cosmetics and tools. I recently had a chance to meet Kashuk and get a sneak preview of all the beautiful color palettes, limited edition brush sets made with organic materials, and a collection of bags that includes colorful clutches and weekend totes. (Yes, that is yours truly with the sensational Sonia Kashuk after my mini-makeover. She was so sweet! ) Here is a little video clip of Kashuk talking about the travel friendly nature of her collection and her mission to glamify women everywhere!

Here are a few of my favorite goodies from the new collection! Keep reading for a chance to win a Sonia Kashuk Limited Edition Small Treasure Brush Set!


I can't wait to tote one of these Sonia Kashuk bags on my next overnight trip. Can you believe that the large travel duffel is only $39.99? It is lightweight, sturdy and nicely organized inside. The collection also includes cute cosmetic cases for as little as $5.99.

How chic is this Gold Mine Seven-Piece Brush Set? Only $24.99, the brushes are made of natural materials and housed in a wicker clutch with an organic stone closure. You will save precious time on the road by having the right tools to apply your makeup. From a powder brush to a smudge brush, this kit has virtually everything you need for a flawless application. And, this clutch is nice enough to carry on its own.

Another great travel friendly item in the collection is the Spring Awakenings Face Palette. Only $19.99, it contains 4 eyeshadows, 1 eye intensifier, 3 lip glosses, and 1 blush nestled together in a wicker covered palette. The colors flatter a wide range of skin tones. And, do you see how nicely this palette is packaged? Buy one for you and one for a friend - this is a great gift that won't break the bank.

 
One lucky reader will win this Small Treasure Purse Brush Set ($14.99).
The four brushes (synthetic powder/blusher, medium eye shadow, crease, and pointed eyeliner) are packaged in a travel-friendly soft burlap pouch with tribal symbols that mean Love, Strength & Unity.

For a chance to win, just leave a comment below telling me what your favorite item of makeup is. Do you feel naked without lipstick? Moody without mascara? Leave your comments below by Thursday, March 10, 5pm EST. One winner will be selected at random. Prize can only be shipped to addresses in the United States.

Can You Sip Your Way to Beauty Sleep with reBloom?

In this 24/7 global village some people wear their lack of sleep like a badge of honor - bragging about how they conquer the world on just 2 hours of sleep and obscene amounts of Starbucks. Whatever. I try to get 6-8 hours of sleep most nights and I am queen of the cat naps. One of the downsides of traveling is that changing time zones is so disruptive to a healthy sleep cycle. And, sometimes, even at home, we hit the pillow and just can't fall asleep - so frustrating.

reBloom Beauty Sleep Drink is designed to ease you to sleep without any harmful side effects. The drink contains well-known natural sleep aids, including Valerian, Melatonin, Chamomile and Lavender. Each bottle is a travel-friendly 2.5 oz. and contains only 5 calories. Just sip one bottle 30-60 minutes before you want to fall asleep and reBloom does the rest. 

I gave reBloom a try last night and I did sleep 7 hours straight-thru and I usually get up at least once in the middle of the night. If you are wondering about the taste, it isn't sweet but reBloom has a very earthy & herbal flavor that I liked and was easy to sip. According to reBloom's clinical trials, "reBloom helped subjects fall asleep 35% faster and get over 30 minutes of additional sleep."

Many of us grew up with our moms and grandmothers reminding us to get our beauty rest and they were so right. A good's night sleep gives our bodies a chance to rejuvenate and wake up without dark circles under our eyes and lifeless complexions. reBloom was founded by Jonathan Bunt to help his wife Andrea because her sleeping issues had her concerned that she would have to take the prescription drug Ambien for the rest of her life. Jonathan wanted to find a natural, healthy solution for his sweetheart and worked with doctors and beverage scientists to develop reBloom. A real life Sleeping Beauty and Prince Charming!

reBloom can be purchased at their website. A 7-pack is $21.95, a 4-pack is $14.99 and a 2-pack sample is free ($4.95 shipping & handling).

Blue Lagoon: Natural Skin Care from Iceland

Let's face it, our friends in Iceland have had a tough time lately. Not only did the country suffer tremendously during the worldwide economic crisis, the eruption of their Eyjafjallajokull volcano last summer stranded travelers from all corners of the globe. But don't write off Bjork's homeland just yet, this island nation in the North Atlantic remains rich in natural resources and Blue Lagoon incorporates those elements into their line of natural skincare products.

Enriched with active ingredients from geothermal seawater, Blue Lagoon products contain algae, minerals and silica. I am always looking for a good mask and Blue Lagoon's Silica Mud Mask ($100) deep cleanses and exfoliates the skin. If I've learned anything about skincare over the years, I know that gentle exfoliation sheds dead skin cells and reveals healthier glowing skin. Fragrance and color free, the pure white Silica Mud Mask is a nice addition to your current skin care regimen. It may seem pricey but the very large tube (6.8 fl. oz.) will last a long time.  The full line of Blue Lagoon products includes Balancing Oil-Free Emulsion, Mineral Moisturizing Cream, Anti-Aging Eye Cream, Algae & Mineral Shower Gel, and more.

If you find yourself visiting Iceland (direct flights on IcelandAir from NYC get you there in 6 hours), be sure to visit the Blue Lagoon Spa for a full day of pampering, including a therapeutic soak in the namesake lagoon.

Crazy for KORRES: Natural Skincare from Greece

There is no polite way to say this: I detest winter. Don't like it. Don't need it. Can't stand it. As a native New Yorker and alumna of a New England boarding school, I feel like I've more than paid my cold weather dues. I am tired of packing away my sundresses for months at a time and wearing bulky layers of clothes. And, flirting in the winter is way more challenging - it is hard to saunter seductively when you're bundled up like the abominable snowman. Footloose and fancy free in snow boots? Fuhgettaboutit!

Another downside of winter is that my already sensitive, oily-combination skin tends to get a little crazy. An oil slick with dry patches is not cute. So, 3 weeks ago I headed to Sephora to find a new moisturizer and so far I am thrilled with my KORRES Pomegranate Balancing Moisturizer ($32). It may sound crazy, but I often tend to avoid all-natural skin care products because I question their efficacy. However, KORRES' motto of "natural formulations with maximum results" seems to be on target. I use the moisturizer day & night and the results thus far: no breakouts, tighter pores, no dry patches and a nice healthy glow.  According to KORRES, pomegranate extract diminishes pore size and neutralizes free radical damage. Other ingredients include zinc to balance oil production and Pro-Vitamin B5 for long lasting hydration. It does NOT, however, contain mineral oil, parabens, synthetic dyes and other yucky ingredients that are not skin friendly.

A bit of sunshine in a jar, KORRES products are made in Greece and the company was established out of the country's oldest homeopathic pharmacy. In addition to skincare, KORRES also has a full line of cosmetics that I look forward to trying. Since I can't make it to Greece anytime soon for a much needed dose of Mediterranean sunshine, my next shopping trip will be to the KORRES store at 110 Wooster Street in NYC.

KORRES flagship store in Soho, NYC

 

Have Dress. Will Travel.

  Welcome to The Black Dress Traveler!
Saucy Snippets about Destinations, Fashion, Beauty, Food & Wine, Events & Everything Fabulous!  

No matter where I travel, I always have at least one little black dress in my suitcase. More than a garment, the LBD is a reminder to live life with a dash of flair whether you are traveling to work or circling the globe.

A native New Yorker, I love exploring my hometown of New York City just as much as venturing to far-flung destinations. Travel is a state of mind and  there are places right in our own backyards that can elicit powerful feelings of wonder and inspiration. Films, food, wine, books, fashion and music can all transport us to new places.  

Try to have a little black dress approach to life no matter where you are or what you are wearing. Remember, adventure is always in fashion!

Wanda

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Photo: Missy Photography

Big Apple Beauty: Haute Holiday Hair Deals at Phyto Universe

If your travels bring you to New York City this week, take a break from the hustle and bustle to pamper your tresses. After all, a healthy and stylish head of hair is always the perfect accessory for a little black dress. To look your very best without breaking the bank, book a special holiday treatment at one of my favorite places -  Phyto Universe (715 Lexington Avenue at 58^th Street). From December 14-18, Phyto is teaming up with Halo Salon and Color Lab to offer an array of upscale services at affordable prices.

Led by expert colorist Jenna Rabideau, the Halo team of stylists is visiting from Fort Worth, Texas to pamper New York City clients at Phyto Universe with Blowouts for $20 and Special Occasion Styles/Updos for $125. For a more dramatic change, single process haircolor with a free haircut will be offered for $125 and up, haircut and blowdry for $100, highlights for $125 and up, global bleach with toner virgin application for $200, and single process color with highlights for $195 and up. Rabideau and her staff are regularly featured in print and broadcast media including: My Fair Wedding with David Tutera, Glamour, and MSNBC.


Created by Parisian stylist Patrick Ales, Phyto Universe is a unique beauty oasis in the heart of Manhattan. Renowned for their botanical based hair and scalp treatments, Phyto Universe is a tranquil escape from the concrete jungle –  a 3,000 square foot vertical garden encircles the venue and it is home to 9,000 live tropical plants. Phyto offers an extensive line of products to treat every hair type and texture. 



To make an appointment for a Holiday Hair Service and to learn about all of the available services, call Phyto Universe at 212-308-0270.

Plane Pretty: Five Fantastic Travel Friendly Beauty Products

Long time readers know that I've been a vocal opponent of the TSA's requirement that all carry-on liquids not exceed 3 fluid ounces and be placed in a quart-sized ZipLock bag. I strongly suspect that the only fans of this rule are the folks who manufacture those darn plastic bags. Yes, I appreciate the TSA's ongoing efforts to keep us safe but if they can't tell the difference between Chanel No. 5 and a weapon, we are in serious trouble - mascara is not the enemy!

In a travel era of exorbitant checked baggage fees and plastic baggies, deciding what toiletries to bring on a trip can pose a real dilemma for even the most seasoned traveler. Here are five products that deliver great results and won't take up any space in your ZipLock. Fly pretty!

Pacifica Wanderlust Collection Solid Perfume Trio ($15 at Sephora) - These snazzy solid fragrances are an affordable and practical way to bring scent with you on your journeys. Formulated from organic soy and coconut wax, the lush fragrances included in the Wanderlust Collection are Tuscan Blood Orange, Indian Coconut Nectar, and Tahitian Gardenia.



Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Powder ($11 at 3FlOZ.com) - Refresh your coif on a short trip with the dry shampoo that was voted "Best Dry Shampoo" and "Best Quick Fix" by Allure Magazine. No water or blow dryer necessary - just massage the powdery potion into your scalp, brush, and restyle. In just a few minutes your tresses will look freshly washed and have a lovely scent of lemon verbena.

PUR Minerals 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Foundation with SPF 15 ($25 at PURMinerals.com) - I really have been trying to get on board with the loose mineral powder trend. While I do like some of the products, I find those little jars of powder messy and utterly inconvenient for touch-ups. Who wants to pull out a jar when you want to discreetly powder your nose? Every so often I cheat, but I find myself coming back to PUR. This very portable solid mineral powder is gentle on sensitive skin, offers AMAZING coverage (no extra concealer needed), has sunscreen, and seems much more expensive than $25. However, I do highly recommend investing in the Chisel Makeup Brush ($23) for a flawless application and using the enclosed facial sponge for touch-ups.  I'm not the only one who loves PUR  - it is an Allure Editor's Choice. Available in shades from Porcelain to Deepest.

   Garnier Nutrioniste Nutri-Pure Detoxifying Wet Cleansing Towelettes ($6.49 at Drugstore.com) -  I am crazy about these facial wipes. Enriched with Vitamins E & B5 and Green Leaf Extract, these freshly fragranced towelettes are non-comedogenic and thoroughly cleanse the skin. They are perfect for removing makeup or when you need a quick refresh on the road.

 

 

Caswell-Massey Cool Cucumber Eye Pads ($7 at CaswellMassey.com) - Nothing gives away a weary traveler like puffy eyes and dark circles. Pre-moistened with soothing cucumber juice, aloe vera, and green tea, these anti-oxidant rich pads are printed to look like real slices of cucumber. Founded in 1752 in Rhode Island, Caswell-Massey is older than the USA and the country's oldest operarating retailer - clearly they know what they are doing!

Sexy Scent: ILARI Roll-On Perfume is Travel Friendly & Alluring

Why not carry a little love potion number nine with you on your next getaway and everyday? ILARI roll-on perfume is an exotic blend of jasmine, sandalwood, musk, ebony wood and orange blossom encased in a convenient roller-ball applicator (.35 oz) and packaged in a small gold satin bag that makes it easy to carry. The suggested retail price is $65 and ILARI is availble at Barneys in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago and online at www.ilarinyc.com.

The story behind the creation of ILARI is as intriguing as the fragrance itself.

"When Hillary Schneider, ILARI'S creator first moved to New York City from the Midwest she aspired to find what every post-graduate, twenty-something seeks; to have fun, make new friends, forge an identity and just maybe... find love. It quickly became clear she needed an edge  in this ultra-competitive world of New York City dating. She embarked on a quest to create her own, personal Love Potion Number Nine. Donning a complex mixture of scented oil and body mist, Hillary was stopped in shops, restaurants, and even on the street with inquiries about her complicated and not easily attainable fragrance blend. Approached outside a downtown restaurant one evening, an attractive, fellow diner remarked, with what she likes to believe was complete sincerity, "I could fall in love with a woman who smells as beautiful as you..." Hillary and the attractive stranger were married in July, 2009 in a very New York City wedding."  WOW!

HIllary generously decided to share her attention getting potion with the rest of us ladies and ILARI's signature blend gives a "slightly varied yet equally intoxicating aura on each woman who wears it." Will it work for you? Well, I gave ILARI a test run yesterday and received 2 compliments - I like those odds!