New Fave - Shu Uemura Painting Liner

I’ve had a bundle of new products to try, so stay tuned for lots of reviews, but a true stand-out that I’ve had the most fun playing with is Shu Uemura’s Painting Liner. These tiny little pots look more intimidating that your average pencil, but are actually much easier to apply than a liquid liner and are smudge-proof, waterproof and glide over the lids effortlessly so there’s no need to pull that delicate skin around the eye (ahem, wrinkle control).

I used a cheap liner brush that worked perfectly and have yet to go through all nine shades - mainly because I love the gold so much. The brown and black are great for everyday use. (I'd skip the night blue, only because there's not much difference between that and the black.) The white is more like a shimmery silver that instantly gives you that awake look, while the purple is a beautiful subtle violet. You can also apply a small amount to the base of a lid for long lasting shadow.

2 Minute Iron Tip

Style Boss Tip- Have a few pesky wrinkles in your skirt him or blouse? The area around the button holes always seems to be the real culprit. Heat up your straightening iron and keep that ironing board in the closet where it belongs.

Age Old Beauty Tricks?

I had the pleasure of learning a slew of hand-me-down beauty tricks that have been used for generations in my family. I'm not sure if half of them actually work, but the women in my family swear by most of what are inexpensive drugstore wonders.

Cold cream can be used for anything from body lotion and eye makeup remover, to a nightly moisturizer. The women in my family have surely kept Ponds in business.

Toothpaste is the cure to removing a zit. Dab it on at night and it will be gone in the morning.

Gargling with hydrogen peroxide whitens the teeth.

My mother brushes egg white on her face before any major event (especially one that involves a professional photographer) to "tighten" herself up.

Vaseline is for nightly under-eye wrinkle treatment, lip balm, a DIY lipstick (simply mix your blush with it), to soften your feet and most important for your teeth. A thin layer of Vaseline will make your teeth extra-shiny in pictures and prevent lipstick from getting on that toothy grin.

Do you have any crazy beauty tips that you've learned from the women (or men) in your family?

Latisse for your lashes

I'm willing to go to any length for long lashes. I recently acquired a prescription from my dermatologist for the new wonder-lash treatment, Latisse. You may have seen Brooke Shields pimping the product and she'll tell you that after only 6 weeks of use and slightly pesky side effects, such as darkening of the lid or retina, this miracle gel (that was originally used to treat glaucoma patients) will dramatically thicken and lengthen your lashes. Sign me up! I've been using Latisse for about two weeks and am convinced that my thin (yet long-ish) lashes are thickening already. I'll be updating with a full report in about a month.

The Style Boss is on Vacation

...and will return to regular posting at the end of the week. Thanks for checking in!

Bronzer How-To

A great tip that I read from founder, Maureen Kelly, of the cosmetic brand Tarte is that when applying bronzer, to use a large fluffy brush and make the number 3 over your face. I do this starting at the top of my forehead and repeat it a couple of times. (Not much more because bronzer can be easily overdone if you’re not careful.) This is a foolproof way to apply only where it’s needed (which is not all over the face). My new bronzer that I’m loving and using on a daily basis is the Chanel Soleil Tan De Soleil Limited Edition 4 Facettes Bronzing Powder. It’s great that you have control over the color with the 4 gradual shades of bronzing powder included in the set and they can actually be doubled-up for eye shadow, as well.
This bronzer looks great worn alone and gives the skin a beautiful glow-y look with a flawless finish that Chanel powder always manages to achieve. My easy summer face will consists of this bronzer, a dab of concealer, a punchy blush, and my waterproof mascara. Voila!

A Jean That Every Woman Should Own

I love my skinny jeans, but I bought this fabulous pair when the trouser pant first became all the rage. These 7 for all mankind Ginger Pant in Light Weight Mercer is actually a darker denim that is perfect for year-round wear thanks to the airy fabric and are perfect for a casual office. The best part is that they look incredible on everyone. The higher-waist is very slimming and I own two different pairs (as does my equally obsessed co-worker), including the black double knit that's better suited for cold weather months. 7 is also great about returns - if you happen to get a tear or holes, send those babies back a year or two down the road.

Style Tip - Spoon Me

One on my must-have beauty products is an eyelash curler. My lashes stick straight down if I don't use one. Ever find yourself without this fabulous tool? Use a spoon! I learned this while on a city bus in Mexico from a local woman. Just postition your lashes around it and hold a bit longer than you would with your curler and press your fingers against the spoon. Voila! I've used this in a pinch and although it's not my Shu Uemura, it certainly gets the job done.

Designer Spotlight - Jenny Han

One of my favorite designers ever is Jenny Han. Her clothing is fun, flirty and beautifully made. A few of my favorite blouses are from Jenny and bought at my hometown boutique, Staxx. (Stop in if you're visiting the lovely town of Springfield, Mo - this is my favorite place to shop!)

I love her dress above that Nicky Hilton is wearing and there's an assortment of fabulous maxi dresses that I'm coveting in her Spring 09 collection, as well.

Style Tip - Your Grown Up Locker

I receive a ton of catalogs (Anthropologie, Bloomies, J.Crew, Urban...) with inspiring outfits and items that I might eventually buy. I also subscribe to a slew of magazines with looks that I love. All of this paper can pile up and eventually the "someday" ideas are thrown into the recycle bin.

I've recently discovered that the inside of my closet door can now become a new wall of inspiration and can often help to build my daily outfit. I tear out the pages that I love in magazines and catalogs (with the occasional note, such as "wear a blouse like this with my white BCBG pants") and tape it neatly to the inside of my closet door. I see these when I open it to get dressed each morning. It's been affectionately dubbed as "my locker" and is slightly more mature than my old Tiger Beat photos.

How Not To Look Old

I found this book on my desk and wondered if were a subtle hint considering I’ll be turning 30 this year. I’ll admit that I snickered when I saw the author (although accomplished beauty editor) who appeared to be more of a box blond cougar than a grow-old-gracefully stylista that I hope appear when approaching my 40's and 50’s.

After flipping through the first few pages, I ended up reading the entire book. Ol’ Charla de Cougar actually gave some decent tips on “How Not To Look Old” and without further adieu...I’ll leave you with the most noteworthy:

* Cut Bangs – side swept or longer choppy are best. Kathy Lee Gifford’s new cut is the perfect example. This covers forehead wrinkles and gives you a nice youthful appearance.

* Wear heels.

* On the subject of hair – avoid a middle part with too-long hair, cover your gray and get subtle highlights to frame your face. Charla believes that the blonder, the better and does not care for a solid block of hair color.

* Brows – sculpt your brows. I highly agree with this one. Professionally sculpted brows can take years off of your face.

* Makeup – lighten it up (amen, sista!). Ditch the dark lipstick as you get older. Same with heavy foundation and eye liner. Lighter is younger.

* A few that you might not know - eyeglasses-if you’re wearing half-glasses, then you should ditch those for hip and lighter-colored frames. Charla is also a hater of the eyeglass chain around the neck. Also, over-whitened teeth can age you, as well as keeping your nails too long.

* A couple of no-brainers in the bunch? Mom jeans (duh), obvious lip liner and a bra that doesn’t fit (if the girls aren’t perky, push ups were there to help you fake it) all make you look old.

Best Waterproof Mascara

The Style Boss' Picks for the best in Waterproof Mascara. I've tried about every waterproof under the sun because it's the only kind that I wear. I'll skip a lenghty rundown and give you my favorite in department and drugstore brands.

Maybelline XXL Volume + Length Waterproof Microfiber Mascara - The insanely long names always leaves me forgetful when asked for a great budget mascara, but I always remember the blue and white tube with a duel-end applicator. For best results, I highly recommend applying one directly after the other without waiting for the white gunk to dry. Insanely long name equals insanely long lashes.

If you happen to be Daddy Warbucks or have him for your daddy or sugar daddy, then splurge on Doirshow Waterproof. The fluffy brush equates to long, fat lashes. This is easy to remove with a simple eye makeup remover. (Part of your nightly routine, right?)

A new doozie that came across my doorstep is Blinc Kiss Me Mascara. This tube technology mascara has water-resistant "tubes" that form around your lashes that are to be removed with lots of warm water and gentle pressure. This mascara made my lashes look sparse and the "gentle pressure" needed more of an abrasive rubbing action.

I also cannot claim to being a fan of the cult classic, Maybelline Great Lash Mascara. Even the waterproof version clumps my lashes and is entirely too wet for my taste. I'll never understand the beauty industries undying love for this product. I chalk it up to the cutsie color combination.

Beatuy Bar Opens in Brooklyn

Beauty Bar's 7th location has a home in Brooklyn. It's larger than it's Manhattan sister and comes equipped with the requisite old school dryer chairs and manicurist is on hand to primp while you sip. This location serves the signature Beauty Bar cocktails, but soon will offer retro finger foods, a la pigs in a blanket. Not just for the ladies, but always good for a girl's night out.

Q&A - Rainy Day

Q- Style Boss,

I live in NYC and during the rainy season, I'm forced to wear my rain boots to the office. Are these work appropriate for a semi-casual work environment for a 20-something and is there an alternative out there?

Thank you,

Rainy in NYC

A- Although Wellies are adorable, there more well-suited for a puddle jumping than a business meeting. Since you live in the city, you'll want something comfortable, so I'd recommend the new Tory Burch Jelly Reva. Unlike the typical Tory, they're not leather, so they won't get ruined in the rain, plus, they're under $100 (with free shipping) and come in punchy spring colors that are perfect for rainy season. On the bargain end of the spectrum and also a perfectly waterproof option, you can opt for the newly styled Crocs that are also in a slip-on flat (this on in a more sling-back style) for a mere $30.

Both of these options will solve your problem and will come with a lot less bulk to boot (no pun intended).

Schick Quattro Trimstyle Razor & Bikini Trimmer

I'm not one that normally gets jazzed up about a razor, but the Schick Quattro TrimStyle Razor not only has 4 blades with vitamins for a super-smooth shave, but a waterproof bikini trimmer that's adjustable to 3 lenghts to do all of your upkeep in one fell swoop. My new summer staple (that might actually get some use in the winter) keeps my legs smooth and comes in at under $15.

Close to an Urban?

I hit up the Urban Outfitters in Soho today for some major deals. There's plenty of summer stock and accessories galore. The online store is having a few decent sales, but they're never as good as what you can find inside. Warning - be prepared to dig.

I left with a slip skirt and some adorable earrings for $4.99 each. Also, a beaded vest, pleat-y pants, a simple tank and a pair of feather barrettes for $9.99 each! I didn't leave with that, "I just bought this because it was on sale" feeling either, so I might just go back for seconds tomorrow.

Pangea Organic with Gift Set Bonus!

A new product line that I've recently been introduced to and rave about are from Pangea Organics. Their Japanese Matcha Tea with Acai & Goji Berry Mask is hands-down the best mask that I've ever used. Claiming stimulation of collagen, resurfacing of cells, deep-cleansing, hydrating and wrinkle prevention are all made by the product, but I've only had the pleasure of using it for a short time. I can say without a doubt that I've had much clearer skin and a supremely radiant glow after each use. I also love that the eco-conscience package can be planted in your herb garden and you can watch it come to life.

Bonus - From now until June 15 you can purchase the “Best of Pangea” Gift Set, that includes the Acai & Goji Berry mask (among some of my other favorites) that’s regularly $167...for only $100. (For a non-math whiz like me, that’s 40% off.) You can be the best gift-giver in the world or stash a few faves for yourself and keep the rest on hand for last minute birthdays and pesky drop-ins. Pre-order now!

Tracy Feith for Target

Go International has had their share of designer hits and misses, but I am loving the Tracy Feith for Target that hit stores on Sunday. The designer took the best of the boho-surfer-chic look that I crave when this time of year rolls around and put it into a price point that’s affordable to the masses. I can't wait to see the pieces in person.

The Style Boss Picks for Best One-Piece Swimwear

It’s high time that the one-piece has made a comeback. Here are The Style Boss’ choices for the best of 2009.


For the Small Busted- The added fabric at the top of this bandeau from J. Crew will appear to make the bust larger. This is one of my favorite suits of all time.

This suit is a great alternative and has more color options.

Asymmetrical Trend- This gorgeous suit from Anthropologie has intricate detailing and is the best of the asymmetrical trend that we’re seeing everywhere this year.

Retro- This fabulous bandeau from Target is retro-inspired and the feminine detailing does wonders for the waist-line. The rich red is gorgeous and the price cannot be beat.

Budget- This halter suit from Shape FX actually smoothes the tummy and bum and has cups that enhance the bust. I also love the keyhole detailing.

Plus-Sized- The Miracle Suit by Salon Z has the ultra-flattering asymmetrical shirring across the waistline. The lovely suit is classic, simple and does not involve an ugly print or a skirt that is often involved in many plus-sized lines.

Lingerie-Inspired- This Malia Mills suit is so beautifully constructed that is could easily be word with shorts or a skirt for an outfit (new trend alert, btw). Mill’s swimwear is also sold in bra cup and pant sizes for the best possible fit. This suit has adjustable cups and straps.

Maternity-This simple and inexpensive maternity suit from Old Navy is the perfect price for only a season of wear. The flattering shape will be coomfortable, but I say to bare it in a bikini.

Sexy- A one-piece can certainly be more sexy than any bikini. This Thomas Maier cut-out with bows is not overtly sexy, but one of the most uniquely designed suits of the season.

Tweezerman Lighted Slant Tweezer

Tweezerman Lighted Slant Tweezer - Tweezerman products have earned a reputation as the gold standard for at-home plucking. This stainless steel version with an LED light gives you the ability to grab each and every tiny little hair that you might ordinarily miss-in any kind of lighting. My favorite part is that the area where the light and the (replaceable) battery is positioned actually gives you a better grip. This set also comes with a matching leather carrying case.