Friday, November 30, 2007

Iny, Miny, Miney...Forest


My first kiss of the week belonged to Dylan. But by Monday, I had my lips all over Chris. On Tuesday, I let Tyler steal a smooch before meeting up with Johnny for some serious lip action. Thursday was pretty busy, as I puckered up with Eric and David – at the same time! Today, I’m all about Forest, who gave me some sugar on my way to work.

Before your imagination starts running wild – allow me to explain. This post is a kiss and tell, but it’s not what you’re thinking. I am still very happily married, but my lips are having a love affair with Kissable Couture, a new lip gloss collection created by Keisha Nash-Whitaker and celebrity makeup artist AJ Crimson (whose clients include Fergie, Keyshia Cole, Christina Milian, Missy Elliot, and Alec Wek).

The fall collection, titled First Kiss, is comprised of seven shades; my favorite is Forest, a beautiful bordeaux, named after Keisha’s husband (the amazingly talented writer/director/and Academy Award-winning actor – yes, that Forest).

In the tube, some may find the ombre hues a bit daunting. But be not afraid - each gloss dresses lips in sumptuous color that is surprisingly wearable.

Kissable Couture is a must-have addition to every woman’s winter (makeup) wardrobe. And for only $22, everyone can afford to wear couture!

To dress your lips in luxury, visit kissablecouture.com.

Iny, Miny, Miney...Forest


My first kiss of the week belonged to Dylan. But by Monday, I had my lips all over Chris. On Tuesday, I let Tyler steal a smooch before meeting up with Johnny for some serious lip action. Thursday was pretty busy, as I puckered up with Eric and David – at the same time! Today, I’m all about Forest, who gave me some sugar on my way to work.

Before your imagination starts running wild – allow me to explain. This post is a kiss and tell, but it’s not what you’re thinking. I am still very happily married, but my lips are having a love affair with Kissable Couture, a new lip gloss collection created by Keisha Nash-Whitaker and celebrity makeup artist AJ Crimson (whose clients include Fergie, Keyshia Cole, Christina Milian, Missy Elliot, and Alec Wek).

The fall collection, titled First Kiss, is comprised of seven shades; my favorite is Forest, a beautiful bordeaux, named after Keisha’s husband (the amazingly talented writer/director/and Academy Award-winning actor – yes, that Forest).

In the tube, some may find the ombre hues a bit daunting. But be not afraid - each gloss dresses lips in sumptuous color that is surprisingly wearable.

Kissable Couture is a must-have addition to every woman’s winter (makeup) wardrobe. And for only $22, everyone can afford to wear couture!

To dress your lips in luxury, visit kissablecouture.com.

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Extra, Extra


Mrs. Jordan Bratman strikes a pose on the cover of January’s Glamour UK. The Xtina-filled issue hits newsstands on December 17.

Oh, yeah…and I think she might be pregnant.

Extra, Extra


Mrs. Jordan Bratman strikes a pose on the cover of January’s Glamour UK. The Xtina-filled issue hits newsstands on December 17.

Oh, yeah…and I think she might be pregnant.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Buyer Beware

After reading that FragranceX.com sells discount skin care, body products, and cosmetics – in addition to fragrances – at up to 80% off, I couldn’t wait to log on and fill up my online shopping cart. So imagine my surprise when I found that not only are the discount claims highly exaggerated, but in many cases, their prices are higher than the retail value. Case in point:

Product: Clinique Perfectly Real Makeup
Retail Price: $22.50
Fragrance X Price: $30 (and they have the nerve to say that you’re saving 17%)


Product: MAC Clear Lip Glass
Retail Price: $13.50
Fragrance X Price: $17 (they say you’re saving 26%)

Product: Frederic Fekkai Apple Cider Clarifying Shampoo
Retail Price: $19.50
Fragrance X Price: $22.50 (they claim this is a savings of 18%)


Product: Philosophy Strawberry Milkshake Ultra-Rich Shampoo, Bath, & Shower Gel
Retail Price: $16
Fragrance X Price: $22.50 (you’re supposedly saving 21%)

Don’t get me wrong – there are many products on FragranceX.com that will actually save you a couple of dollars. But can you really trust an online merchant that would so blatantly jack up prices, making you believe that you’re getting a deal?

The bottom line is that if you choose to purchase from FragranceX.com, or similar discount websites, take precautions. All it takes is a few extra minutes to check prices and make sure that it’s you, and not them, who is making out like a bandit.

Buyer Beware

After reading that FragranceX.com sells discount skin care, body products, and cosmetics – in addition to fragrances – at up to 80% off, I couldn’t wait to log on and fill up my online shopping cart. So imagine my surprise when I found that not only are the discount claims highly exaggerated, but in many cases, their prices are higher than the retail value. Case in point:

Product: Clinique Perfectly Real Makeup
Retail Price: $22.50
Fragrance X Price: $30 (and they have the nerve to say that you’re saving 17%)


Product: MAC Clear Lip Glass
Retail Price: $13.50
Fragrance X Price: $17 (they say you’re saving 26%)

Product: Frederic Fekkai Apple Cider Clarifying Shampoo
Retail Price: $19.50
Fragrance X Price: $22.50 (they claim this is a savings of 18%)


Product: Philosophy Strawberry Milkshake Ultra-Rich Shampoo, Bath, & Shower Gel
Retail Price: $16
Fragrance X Price: $22.50 (you’re supposedly saving 21%)

Don’t get me wrong – there are many products on FragranceX.com that will actually save you a couple of dollars. But can you really trust an online merchant that would so blatantly jack up prices, making you believe that you’re getting a deal?

The bottom line is that if you choose to purchase from FragranceX.com, or similar discount websites, take precautions. All it takes is a few extra minutes to check prices and make sure that it’s you, and not them, who is making out like a bandit.

Can You Solve The Mystery?


In advance of the launch of a new hair care product, a leading company is allowing Americans to try the shampoo/conditioner system for free and to guess the brand of the mystery sample. If your great hair days are few and far between, the answer to beautiful, healthy hair may be just a click away. This unique hair care system’s true identity will be revealed on December 17 on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.

For a free sample of the mystery product, more information, video testimonials, and a chance to win a free vacation at a luxury resort in Arizona, log on to HairMystery.com.

Can You Solve The Mystery?


In advance of the launch of a new hair care product, a leading company is allowing Americans to try the shampoo/conditioner system for free and to guess the brand of the mystery sample. If your great hair days are few and far between, the answer to beautiful, healthy hair may be just a click away. This unique hair care system’s true identity will be revealed on December 17 on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.

For a free sample of the mystery product, more information, video testimonials, and a chance to win a free vacation at a luxury resort in Arizona, log on to HairMystery.com.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Philadelphia Phocus: Erik Robinson

Friends and strangers often compliment me on my hair, especially on the rare occasions when I sport something other than my trademark ponytail. But to be fair, the condition of my hair has less to do with the products I keep in my bathroom, and more to do with the company I have kept for the past thirteen years.

Erik Robinson is my mane man; that's him (to the left, with his wife) at my wedding reception. He is the only person I would even let think about touching my hair. And for good reason – he’s been in the business for 20 years, he holds a state examiner’s license (which means he tests other who are seeking their cosmetology, esthetician, and managers license), and he knows hair.

Usually, when I’m in Erik’s chair, we gab about pop culture and the latest antics of my crazy family (Erik is also my mom and sister’s hairstylist, and my dad’s barber). But when I stopped in a few weeks ago, Erik and I talked (beauty) shop – and he had some tips for touchable tresses that I’m excited to share with all of you.

Erik says that it’s normal to lose 50-100 strands of hair per day. So if you notice a clump of hair in the shower drain – don’t break out the Propecia just yet. “Typically, your hair will tell you what’s wrong. The key is learning how to interpret the signs,” he said.

“Women are going flat-iron crazy right now, and they wonder why they’ve got broken tips and split ends. When you regularly use thermal styling tools, you need to coat hair with a light oil or serum to protect it from the damaging effects of heat,” Erik explained. One of my personal favorites is Fantasia Heat Protector Straightening Serum. It moisturizes, repairs, and smooths the cuticle – leaving hair shiny and frizz-free. It’s brilliant for preventing breakage, and at less than $8, it won’t break the bank.

When you start noticing half-stands on your pillowcase or collar, over-processing is usually the culprit. “Overlapping chemical processes, such as relaxers, perms, and permanent color, can take a toll hair – especially if hair isn’t strong to begin with.” So if you insist on altering the chemical structure of hair and its hue, you might want to consider a more gentle hair color (one without ammonia or peroxide). Look for products with the words “temporary” or “semi-permanent” – fortunately, there are plenty of great products out there, at every price point. And when in doubt, go to a salon; it beats wrecking your hair and having to see a professional anyway to repair the damage.

Finally, Erik warned that “losing whole strands is an indication that a person requires a major change in lifestyle. Diet, stress, hormones, and medication could be factors when your hair falls out at the root.” In such a case, a trip to the doctor is often necessary to get to the root of the problem (no pun intended).

At the end of our pow-wow, my final question to Erik was this: if he had to narrow it down to just one thing, what would he say is the secret to beautiful hair? “Beautiful hair is healthy hair,” he stated simply. “And the key to healthy hair is maintaining a stable pH level, which ranges between 4.5 and 5.5. Keeping hair in this range involves using balance of moisturizing and protein products.” So, in laymans terms - if you’re only using products that hydrate, you’re not adding enough strength to strands; conversely, if you go overboard with protein products, hair becomes so strong that it can literally snap. Try following a moisturizing shampoo, like Technician Shampoo For Dry, Damaged, Color-Treated Hair, with a protein treatment like Protein Rx Reparative Treatment Mask – both by Frederic Fekkai.

Erik Robinson’s wealth of hair knowledge is inspiring; if I wrote half of what he told me, we’d be here all day. But what is even more remarkable is his innate, creative talent. Erik is the best hairdresser I’ve ever had, and he’s also one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. So if you live in - or are passing through - the Philadelphia area, I highly recommend that you make an appointment. Erik is skilled in women’s and men’s hairstyling, hair cutting, and hair coloring – and if you mention Spoiled Pretty, he’ll knock 30% off all services over $20*!

Erik Robinson
Salon DuBose
107 South 22nd Street (between Chestnut and Sansom)
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215.564.5340

*For Erik’s price list, contact me at spoiledpretty@gmail.com.

Philadelphia Phocus: Erik Robinson

Friends and strangers often compliment me on my hair, especially on the rare occasions when I sport something other than my trademark ponytail. But to be fair, the condition of my hair has less to do with the products I keep in my bathroom, and more to do with the company I have kept for the past thirteen years.

Erik Robinson is my mane man; that's him (to the left, with his wife) at my wedding reception. He is the only person I would even let think about touching my hair. And for good reason – he’s been in the business for 20 years, he holds a state examiner’s license (which means he tests other who are seeking their cosmetology, esthetician, and managers license), and he knows hair.

Usually, when I’m in Erik’s chair, we gab about pop culture and the latest antics of my crazy family (Erik is also my mom and sister’s hairstylist, and my dad’s barber). But when I stopped in a few weeks ago, Erik and I talked (beauty) shop – and he had some tips for touchable tresses that I’m excited to share with all of you.

Erik says that it’s normal to lose 50-100 strands of hair per day. So if you notice a clump of hair in the shower drain – don’t break out the Propecia just yet. “Typically, your hair will tell you what’s wrong. The key is learning how to interpret the signs,” he said.

“Women are going flat-iron crazy right now, and they wonder why they’ve got broken tips and split ends. When you regularly use thermal styling tools, you need to coat hair with a light oil or serum to protect it from the damaging effects of heat,” Erik explained. One of my personal favorites is Fantasia Heat Protector Straightening Serum. It moisturizes, repairs, and smooths the cuticle – leaving hair shiny and frizz-free. It’s brilliant for preventing breakage, and at less than $8, it won’t break the bank.

When you start noticing half-stands on your pillowcase or collar, over-processing is usually the culprit. “Overlapping chemical processes, such as relaxers, perms, and permanent color, can take a toll hair – especially if hair isn’t strong to begin with.” So if you insist on altering the chemical structure of hair and its hue, you might want to consider a more gentle hair color (one without ammonia or peroxide). Look for products with the words “temporary” or “semi-permanent” – fortunately, there are plenty of great products out there, at every price point. And when in doubt, go to a salon; it beats wrecking your hair and having to see a professional anyway to repair the damage.

Finally, Erik warned that “losing whole strands is an indication that a person requires a major change in lifestyle. Diet, stress, hormones, and medication could be factors when your hair falls out at the root.” In such a case, a trip to the doctor is often necessary to get to the root of the problem (no pun intended).

At the end of our pow-wow, my final question to Erik was this: if he had to narrow it down to just one thing, what would he say is the secret to beautiful hair? “Beautiful hair is healthy hair,” he stated simply. “And the key to healthy hair is maintaining a stable pH level, which ranges between 4.5 and 5.5. Keeping hair in this range involves using balance of moisturizing and protein products.” So, in laymans terms - if you’re only using products that hydrate, you’re not adding enough strength to strands; conversely, if you go overboard with protein products, hair becomes so strong that it can literally snap. Try following a moisturizing shampoo, like Technician Shampoo For Dry, Damaged, Color-Treated Hair, with a protein treatment like Protein Rx Reparative Treatment Mask – both by Frederic Fekkai.

Erik Robinson’s wealth of hair knowledge is inspiring; if I wrote half of what he told me, we’d be here all day. But what is even more remarkable is his innate, creative talent. Erik is the best hairdresser I’ve ever had, and he’s also one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. So if you live in - or are passing through - the Philadelphia area, I highly recommend that you make an appointment. Erik is skilled in women’s and men’s hairstyling, hair cutting, and hair coloring – and if you mention Spoiled Pretty, he’ll knock 30% off all services over $20*!

Erik Robinson
Salon DuBose
107 South 22nd Street (between Chestnut and Sansom)
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215.564.5340

*For Erik’s price list, contact me at spoiledpretty@gmail.com.

I'm "It"


I’ve been tagged by Diva In A Carry On. Now that I’m “it,” I have to write 7 random facts about myself, then tag 7 other bloggers. So without further pomp and circumstance, here’s a lil’ sumthin’ sumthin’ you probably didn’t know about your resident beauty know-it-all:

1) Besides Philly, my favorite city is Madrid, Spain. I had my purse stolen there, but who can hold a grudge against a place with such fantastic shopping, architecture, food, and culture? Sometimes, during an especially tiring day, I take a mental siesta and imagine that I’m at a tapas bar eating gambas al ajillo and red wine sangria.

2) My favorite television show is Project Runway (I’ve seen every episode at least 10 times). My favorite movie? It’s a tie between The Sound of Music and Pulp Fiction…yes, I know I’m weird.

3) I memorized the Hail Mary, in French, when I was in the first grade – and I can still recite it to this day.

4) My dream job would be to perform on Broadway. In undergrad, I majored in Communications and Theater – and I wrote my senior thesis on the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Rent.

5) My favorite musicians are Jeff Buckley and Otis Redding.

6) Although I work in marketing and public relations, I attended law school – where I met my husband, on the first day of orientation.

7) My favorite word is facetious (did you know that facetiously is one of only two English words with all five vowels and the semivowel y in alphabetical order?)

I’ve tagged the following blogs; check them out and learn a little more about the divas behind some of your fav daily diaries.

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic
Yummy 411
Beauty Banter
Makeup Loves Me
Southern Sugar
Miss M Does Fashion
Hot and Cheap

I'm "It"


I’ve been tagged by Diva In A Carry On. Now that I’m “it,” I have to write 7 random facts about myself, then tag 7 other bloggers. So without further pomp and circumstance, here’s a lil’ sumthin’ sumthin’ you probably didn’t know about your resident beauty know-it-all:

1) Besides Philly, my favorite city is Madrid, Spain. I had my purse stolen there, but who can hold a grudge against a place with such fantastic shopping, architecture, food, and culture? Sometimes, during an especially tiring day, I take a mental siesta and imagine that I’m at a tapas bar eating gambas al ajillo and red wine sangria.

2) My favorite television show is Project Runway (I’ve seen every episode at least 10 times). My favorite movie? It’s a tie between The Sound of Music and Pulp Fiction…yes, I know I’m weird.

3) I memorized the Hail Mary, in French, when I was in the first grade – and I can still recite it to this day.

4) My dream job would be to perform on Broadway. In undergrad, I majored in Communications and Theater – and I wrote my senior thesis on the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Rent.

5) My favorite musicians are Jeff Buckley and Otis Redding.

6) Although I work in marketing and public relations, I attended law school – where I met my husband, on the first day of orientation.

7) My favorite word is facetious (did you know that facetiously is one of only two English words with all five vowels and the semivowel y in alphabetical order?)

I’ve tagged the following blogs; check them out and learn a little more about the divas behind some of your fav daily diaries.

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic
Yummy 411
Beauty Banter
Makeup Loves Me
Southern Sugar
Miss M Does Fashion
Hot and Cheap

Monday, November 26, 2007

Bling Blang

Got some extra room in your $18,000 Goyard/Lancome train case? Good news – La Prairie’s Skin Caviar Luxe Cream now comes in a refillable jar, be-dazzled with 2,400 handset Swarovski crystals. This dramatic firming treatment provides skin with vital nutrients, including a Caviar Firming Complex to hydrate, nourish and pamper skin. Only 610 pieces were produced worldwide – and one of those babies can be yours for the low, low price of $2,000.

Got some more disposable income – like $62,000 worth? Earlier this month, Guerlain introduced KissKiss Gold and Diamonds, a lipstick custom-designed in France, adorned with 18-carat yellow gold and paved with 199 diamonds, weighing in at 2.2 carats. Housed in a black lacquered wooden case, KissKiss Gold and Diamonds is refillable and accompanied by its own lip brush and protective black suede pouch. The gold encasing can be customized with a name or message engraving and the lipstick is available in 15 customizable shades hand selected by Guerlain’s Artistic Director, Olivier Echaudemaison.

If you're thinking that $62,000 is a bit steep, but $56,808 is more up your alley, The New York Post has a great idea for pinching some pennies - have the store ship it to you for a $12.75 fee, and save $5,192.50 in sales tax. What a steal!

The KissKiss Gold and Diamonds lipstick is available at Guerlain Boutiques at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus San Francisco, The Breakers West Palm Beach and Epcot through private appointment only.

Bling Blang

Got some extra room in your $18,000 Goyard/Lancome train case? Good news – La Prairie’s Skin Caviar Luxe Cream now comes in a refillable jar, be-dazzled with 2,400 handset Swarovski crystals. This dramatic firming treatment provides skin with vital nutrients, including a Caviar Firming Complex to hydrate, nourish and pamper skin. Only 610 pieces were produced worldwide – and one of those babies can be yours for the low, low price of $2,000.

Got some more disposable income – like $62,000 worth? Earlier this month, Guerlain introduced KissKiss Gold and Diamonds, a lipstick custom-designed in France, adorned with 18-carat yellow gold and paved with 199 diamonds, weighing in at 2.2 carats. Housed in a black lacquered wooden case, KissKiss Gold and Diamonds is refillable and accompanied by its own lip brush and protective black suede pouch. The gold encasing can be customized with a name or message engraving and the lipstick is available in 15 customizable shades hand selected by Guerlain’s Artistic Director, Olivier Echaudemaison.

If you're thinking that $62,000 is a bit steep, but $56,808 is more up your alley, The New York Post has a great idea for pinching some pennies - have the store ship it to you for a $12.75 fee, and save $5,192.50 in sales tax. What a steal!

The KissKiss Gold and Diamonds lipstick is available at Guerlain Boutiques at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus San Francisco, The Breakers West Palm Beach and Epcot through private appointment only.

Breakup Makeup

When we get our hearts broken, emotions run the gamut. We heal ourselves through tears, fill our iPods with sad love songs, and use Häagen-Dazs as an analgesic. But when things are going bad, sometimes the best revenge is looking good.


Newly single gals can paint the town (and their nails) red with Orly’s Divorcée 6-Pix. The collection includes 50/50, Pawn the Ring, It's Not Me, It's You, One Night Stand, See Yah, and Take Him To The Cleaners.


Got a friend going through a breakup? Buy her Hard Candy's Mix Tape in Breakup Mix. It takes a lot less effort than making a real one, and she’ll look cute to boot. The palette feature three eye shadows and three lip glosses, so you can create a mix of color to match your mood. All the shades are made to coordinate, so it’s impossible to come up with a bad combination.


Benefit’s dear john lustrous facial cream is like a 'moisture magnet' for your skin. Use day or night to moisturize and put lustre back into your complexion. Voted "best face cream" by Elle magazine in 2006.


MakeUp-BreakUp Cool Cleansing Oil from Boscia is a miraculously different and extremely gentle way to deep cleanse, by breaking up all makeup, dissolving impurities and refreshing congested skin without leaving an oily residue.

Breakup Makeup

When we get our hearts broken, emotions run the gamut. We heal ourselves through tears, fill our iPods with sad love songs, and use Häagen-Dazs as an analgesic. But when things are going bad, sometimes the best revenge is looking good.


Newly single gals can paint the town (and their nails) red with Orly’s Divorcée 6-Pix. The collection includes 50/50, Pawn the Ring, It's Not Me, It's You, One Night Stand, See Yah, and Take Him To The Cleaners.


Got a friend going through a breakup? Buy her Hard Candy's Mix Tape in Breakup Mix. It takes a lot less effort than making a real one, and she’ll look cute to boot. The palette feature three eye shadows and three lip glosses, so you can create a mix of color to match your mood. All the shades are made to coordinate, so it’s impossible to come up with a bad combination.


Benefit’s dear john lustrous facial cream is like a 'moisture magnet' for your skin. Use day or night to moisturize and put lustre back into your complexion. Voted "best face cream" by Elle magazine in 2006.


MakeUp-BreakUp Cool Cleansing Oil from Boscia is a miraculously different and extremely gentle way to deep cleanse, by breaking up all makeup, dissolving impurities and refreshing congested skin without leaving an oily residue.

Give The Gift Of Spa


Do you know someone who deserves to be pampered, and would just be overjoyed by the idea of going to a spa? SpaFinder Gift Certificates make the ideal gifts for anyone.

Accepted at more than 4,000 spas worldwide, SpaFinder Gift Certificates can be used by the people on your list for everything from massages to manicures, and pedicures to products…and much, much more. SpaFinder GiftCertificates range from $50 to $1000, in increments of $25 to fit every budget.

If only all holiday shopping could be this easy!

Give The Gift Of Spa


Do you know someone who deserves to be pampered, and would just be overjoyed by the idea of going to a spa? SpaFinder Gift Certificates make the ideal gifts for anyone.

Accepted at more than 4,000 spas worldwide, SpaFinder Gift Certificates can be used by the people on your list for everything from massages to manicures, and pedicures to products…and much, much more. SpaFinder GiftCertificates range from $50 to $1000, in increments of $25 to fit every budget.

If only all holiday shopping could be this easy!

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Beauty-licious Giveaway Sponsored By Jaqua

Spoiled Pretty and our friends at Jaqua Beauty have teamed up to bring you a giftastic giveaway! If you’re unfamiliar with Jaqua, this contest is the perfect introduction to this brand.

One winner will receive a Guilt Free Treats kit, the ultimate Jaqua experience – with three great treats formulated to enrich your skin and your senses. These products are for all those times you can resist the cake, but not the frosting. This kit lets you indulge without a single calorie! Guilt Free Body Treats contain: Shower Crème, Hand Crème, and Body Butter. The winner will have choice of Buttercream Frosting or Cocoa Buttercream Frosting scents. ($30 value)

One runner up will win a Pink Palace Trio kit– filled with all things feminine and indulgent. Step inside the Pink Palace and let the magic put a spell on you! Runner up will have choice of Shower Crème Trio (Pink Buttercream Frosting, Pink Potion, and Pink Champagne) or Body Butter Trio (Pink Buttercream Frosting, Pink Potion, and Pink Champagne). ($24 value)

All entrants will receive a special coupon for 15% off your next purchase at Jaqua.com. Everybody wins - I love it! And I know you’ll love Jaqua, so enter today!

To enter the giveaway, leave a comment in the comments section below by 9 pm EST on Tuesday, December 4th - be sure to include your name and email address. Or email me at spoiledpretty@gmail.com if you're uncomfortable posting your email address below.

A winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Wednesday, December 5th, I’ll announce the winners’ names (all entrants will receive an email with the coupon code for 15% off at Jaqua.com). Please, only one comment per person; duplicate comments will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents. Good luck!

Beauty-licious Giveaway Sponsored By Jaqua

Spoiled Pretty and our friends at Jaqua Beauty have teamed up to bring you a giftastic giveaway! If you’re unfamiliar with Jaqua, this contest is the perfect introduction to this brand.

One winner will receive a Guilt Free Treats kit, the ultimate Jaqua experience – with three great treats formulated to enrich your skin and your senses. These products are for all those times you can resist the cake, but not the frosting. This kit lets you indulge without a single calorie! Guilt Free Body Treats contain: Shower Crème, Hand Crème, and Body Butter. The winner will have choice of Buttercream Frosting or Cocoa Buttercream Frosting scents. ($30 value)

One runner up will win a Pink Palace Trio kit– filled with all things feminine and indulgent. Step inside the Pink Palace and let the magic put a spell on you! Runner up will have choice of Shower Crème Trio (Pink Buttercream Frosting, Pink Potion, and Pink Champagne) or Body Butter Trio (Pink Buttercream Frosting, Pink Potion, and Pink Champagne). ($24 value)

All entrants will receive a special coupon for 15% off your next purchase at Jaqua.com. Everybody wins - I love it! And I know you’ll love Jaqua, so enter today!

To enter the giveaway, leave a comment in the comments section below by 9 pm EST on Tuesday, December 4th - be sure to include your name and email address. Or email me at spoiledpretty@gmail.com if you're uncomfortable posting your email address below.

A winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Wednesday, December 5th, I’ll announce the winners’ names (all entrants will receive an email with the coupon code for 15% off at Jaqua.com). Please, only one comment per person; duplicate comments will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents. Good luck!

Got Problem Skin? No Problem!


Worried that your makeup brushes may have something to do with your plugged-up pores? Sephora’s Deluxe Antibacterial Brush Set may offer a solution. This seven-piece, professional-quality brush set is treated with a non-toxic, hypoallergenic compound that attacks and destroys harmful bacteria. The soft, synthetic fibers distribute just the right amount of pigment and the set comes packaged in a chic, silver, tri-fold brush case.

Set includes a foundation brush, concealer brush, powder brush, angled eye shadow brush, eye blender brush, lip/eyeliner brush, and a brow brush/lash comb.

Got Problem Skin? No Problem!


Worried that your makeup brushes may have something to do with your plugged-up pores? Sephora’s Deluxe Antibacterial Brush Set may offer a solution. This seven-piece, professional-quality brush set is treated with a non-toxic, hypoallergenic compound that attacks and destroys harmful bacteria. The soft, synthetic fibers distribute just the right amount of pigment and the set comes packaged in a chic, silver, tri-fold brush case.

Set includes a foundation brush, concealer brush, powder brush, angled eye shadow brush, eye blender brush, lip/eyeliner brush, and a brow brush/lash comb.

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Kathy Griffin Is Going Straight To Hell

By the looks of promos for Kathy Griffin’s new special, she took my advice and ditched the blunt bangs. Was I right, or was I right? Kathy looks great! The preview is pretty brief, so I can’t tell whether she’s had help from hair extensions, a great blowout, or Botox. Whichever it is, I could really care less. Good for her…it takes ten years off the Emmy-winning comedienne.

I love Kathy and have been a die-hard devotee for years (I mean, only a superfan could appreciate her hilarity on Celebrity Mole: Hawaii). I can’t wait to see what she has to say about the Hollywood hapless on her sixth stand-up original for Bravo.

Kathy Griffin: Straight To Hell” airs Thursday, November 29 at 9 PM ET/PT. Watch what happens.

Kathy Griffin Is Going Straight To Hell

By the looks of promos for Kathy Griffin’s new special, she took my advice and ditched the blunt bangs. Was I right, or was I right? Kathy looks great! The preview is pretty brief, so I can’t tell whether she’s had help from hair extensions, a great blowout, or Botox. Whichever it is, I could really care less. Good for her…it takes ten years off the Emmy-winning comedienne.

I love Kathy and have been a die-hard devotee for years (I mean, only a superfan could appreciate her hilarity on Celebrity Mole: Hawaii). I can’t wait to see what she has to say about the Hollywood hapless on her sixth stand-up original for Bravo.

Kathy Griffin: Straight To Hell” airs Thursday, November 29 at 9 PM ET/PT. Watch what happens.

Smells Just Like It Should


Sometimes the easiest way to spoil yourself is to light a fragrant candle. My favorites are from Yankee Candle, the largest U.S. manufacturer of scented candles. Renowned for its true-to-life scents, the candle-making giant offers a wide assortment of fragrances and colors; so it’s a breeze to find a candle to match your décor and disposition.

My everyday favorites include Vanilla Lime and Lemon Lavender. For a festive fragrance, it doesn’t get any better than Christmas Wreath – it’s perfect for getting into the ho-ho-holiday spirit!

For $10 off your next purchase of $25 or more, click here. To request a scratch-and-sniff catalogue, follow this link.

Smells Just Like It Should


Sometimes the easiest way to spoil yourself is to light a fragrant candle. My favorites are from Yankee Candle, the largest U.S. manufacturer of scented candles. Renowned for its true-to-life scents, the candle-making giant offers a wide assortment of fragrances and colors; so it’s a breeze to find a candle to match your décor and disposition.

My everyday favorites include Vanilla Lime and Lemon Lavender. For a festive fragrance, it doesn’t get any better than Christmas Wreath – it’s perfect for getting into the ho-ho-holiday spirit!

For $10 off your next purchase of $25 or more, click here. To request a scratch-and-sniff catalogue, follow this link.

This Line Takes The Cupcake!

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve undoubtedly heard about Oprah’s Favorite Things of 2007 list. Though Oprah made some fine choices, I have one recommendation for the media mogul.


If I had a list, I’d call it ‘The D-List’ (original, I know) - and everything on it would be from Jaqua’s Buttercream Frosting line of products. I’ve been using the Buttercream Frosting Exfoliating Body Polish, Shower Crème, and Hand Crème for a couple of weeks, and my enthusiasm has not waned. In fact, my fondness grows stronger every day. Not only do the Buttercream Frosting products pamper my parched skin, they smell like heaven - a sweet tooth’s version of heaven, anyway.


Like vanilla frosting with a hint of fresh strawberries, Jaqua's Buttercream Frosting products smell so much like the real thing, I have to remind myself that they're not edibile. I can only hope that Jaqua is developing hair care, shaving cream, toothpaste, antiperspirant, and contact lens solution…so that every square inch of me can smell saccharinely sweet.

Spoiled Pretty tip: while you’re on the Jaqua website, sign up to become a Jaqua VIP (no purchase necessary, and it’s free). Be the first to find out about new Jaqua products, special discounts and best of all, freebie offers only available to Jaqua VIP members.

This Line Takes The Cupcake!

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve undoubtedly heard about Oprah’s Favorite Things of 2007 list. Though Oprah made some fine choices, I have one recommendation for the media mogul.


If I had a list, I’d call it ‘The D-List’ (original, I know) - and everything on it would be from Jaqua’s Buttercream Frosting line of products. I’ve been using the Buttercream Frosting Exfoliating Body Polish, Shower Crème, and Hand Crème for a couple of weeks, and my enthusiasm has not waned. In fact, my fondness grows stronger every day. Not only do the Buttercream Frosting products pamper my parched skin, they smell like heaven - a sweet tooth’s version of heaven, anyway.


Like vanilla frosting with a hint of fresh strawberries, Jaqua's Buttercream Frosting products smell so much like the real thing, I have to remind myself that they're not edibile. I can only hope that Jaqua is developing hair care, shaving cream, toothpaste, antiperspirant, and contact lens solution…so that every square inch of me can smell saccharinely sweet.

Spoiled Pretty tip: while you’re on the Jaqua website, sign up to become a Jaqua VIP (no purchase necessary, and it’s free). Be the first to find out about new Jaqua products, special discounts and best of all, freebie offers only available to Jaqua VIP members.

Mamma Mia / Hot Mama


Christina Aguilera is no longer keeping her pregnancy on the DL. At recent events, the songstress has been proudly showing off her growing baby bump. Too bad she’s still keeping that maternity glow hidden under layers of theatrical makeup. Although Aguilera has made (baby) steps in the right direction by trading red lips for pretty pink ones, she has a ways to go. Is it wishful thinking that the onetime dirrty girl will fully come clean?


On the other end of the spectrum is Keri Russell, who is looking resplendent on the cover (and inside the pages) of Lucky Magazine’s November issue. 2007 was a good year for the actress - as she married her longtime love, gave birth to son River, and became the new face of Cover Girl. “I don’t spend a lot of time on my makeup, but throwing on black mascara and nude lipstick is enough to make me feel glamorous,” she says. Her low-maintenance makeup includes Lash Blast Mascara in Very Black and Tru Shine Lipcolor in Blushberry Shine - both by Cover Girl.