Nicki Minaj Celebrates MAC Viva Glam in Los Angeles

Rapper, singer-songwriter, fashion risk-taker, and hip-hop’s reigning queen of MAC Viva Glam, Nicki Minaj has been spotted around town this week sporting her personalized Viva Glam duo of Lipstick and Lipglass in an all-new shade of pastel lavender pink. Nicki attended the 21st Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation's Oscar Viewing Party this past Sunday wearing her new signature shade. I'm absolutely loving this look on her, the hair is super cute!

Minaj also stopped by the MAC Pro Store on Robertson Blvd. to greet some of her biggest fans, who were dressed in lavender to celebrate the newest Viva Glam lip color.

Every cent of the selling price of MAC Viva Glam Lipstick and Lipglass goes toward helping women, men and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Viva Glam Nicki 2 Lipstick and Lipglass retail for $15.00 US each.

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Hard Candy Nail Lacquer Introduces 5 New Collections for Spring 2013

Winter is wrapping up and color is beginning to pop everywhere. From the runways to the cosmetic aisles of Walmart the story is color and Hard Candy's new collection – set to roll out immediately – tells a tale of "Poppin Pigments" and shades that will have you "All Lid Up!"

What you will be interested in is the 45 (!!!) new shades of Nail Lacquer that Hard Candy is launching. 5 new collections. 9 shades in each. Glitter, Chrome, Rich tones – something for everyone! Not only will nail aficionados fall for the colors but they will also flip for the price of $3.97 each!

Crushed Chrome Collection. Luxurious and timeless hues embellished with a golden textured finish. This collection boasts refinement and sophistication and is infused with a vivacious luster.

Itsy Glitzy Collection. Intense, illuminating, and incandescent hues saturated with the richest and most extreme mica and glitter. Inspired from the runway and now at your fingertips.

Crystal Confetti Collection. A unique collection based on artistic expression. Flourishing, adventurous, full coverage shades with various particle sizes and creative textures. Graffiti is revolutionary; it's an outlet to create public art. Now take this artistic and creative expression to your nails.

Candy Sprinkles Collection. Suspended in a clear top coat, shimmery flecks sparkle brilliantly with different shapes of shiny glitter. Candy Sprinkles is a fabulous top coat over any color.

Glitteratzi Collection. The combination of confident opposites and intimate tonalities mixed with the right amount of sparkle creates enthusiasm for the vitality of life. The hues are natural and are becoming more evolved and colored. Tasteful tones with all the personality to satisfy every trend setter.

The Hard Candy collection is exclusively available at Walmart and on walmart.com. In addition to the cosmetics brand Hard Candy now offers customers a line of apparel and eyeglass frames. The brand can be found on Facebook @Hard Candy; Twitter @HeresHardCandy; Pinterest @ItsHardCandy and on Instagram @HardCandyLife.

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Own The Look | Stars Step Out In Style at the 2013 Oscars + Best Dressed Picks

Last night all of Hollywood's favorite celebrities walked the red carpet at the 85th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, California. The night was filled with wonderful performances and recognition of some of this years best movies, actors, writers and directors. I'll admit I usually enjoy the red carpet arrivals WAY more than the actual show because I love seeing the effortlessly stylish as well as the fashionably awkward celebs! Surprisingly enough this time around I had a lot more fashion favorites than fails. Check out a few of my personal picks for best dressed of the night.

Kelly Rowland @ 2013 Oscars 

Listen, Kelly can simply do no wrong in my book. She looked gorgeous in a black and white asymmetrical gown by Donna Karen. I also loved her soft hint of pink lipstick though I can't say that I'm completely feeling her hairstyle.

Kelly Rowland @ 2013 Oscars 

Kerry is definitely one of my official girl crushes, oh how I adore her! She shined bright in a beautiful studded and embellished gown with a coral bottom by Miu Miu. 

Charlize Theron @ 2013 Oscars 

A prime example of when simplicity meets perfection! Charlize looked amazing in an all white gown by Christian Dior. Her pixie haircut is everything, she's so cute! 

Halle Berry @ 2013 Oscars 

Halle never gets it wrong. While the dress didn't necessarily wow me she still manages to make it work. The forever youthful actress looked effortlessly gorgeous in Marchesa. 

Jennifer Hudson @ 2013 Oscars 

The moment I caught a first glimpse at JHud's gown I was literally wowed. I thought she looked absolutely stunning in her blue embellished gown by Roberto Cavalli. Her performance was amazing as always as well. 

Nancy O'Dell @ 2013 Oscars 

I got the blues...the sweet blues that is ;-) I absolutely love this dress but what I love more is a woman who isn't afraid to burst into some color on the red carpet. Nancy looked so radiant wearing an ombre blue gown by Chagoury Couture.

Zoe Saldana @ 2013 Oscars 

Another one of my girl crushes ^_^ I saw a lot of mixed reviews on Zoe's overall look but I actually think it works so well for her. She looked fresh and blossomed wearing Alexis Mabille.

Kelly Osbourne @ 2013 Oscars 

My pick for best dressed of the night definitely caught me off guard but the girl who takes the crown is Kelly Osbourne!  I absolutely loved her dress and it flattered her so well. She wore a black strappy and studded gown by Tony Ward. 

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Spring Giveaway:: Win a $100 MAC, Sephora, or Ulta Gift Card of Your Choice!

I've been having so much spring fever lately! I'm already painting my nails fun shades and pulling out bright colors in my closet. In anticipation of warmer weather and this Spring's beauty and fashion trends a few of my fellow beauty bloggers and I have teamed up to offer our readers a fabulous $100 Gift Card Giveaway for Spring! That's right, one lucky winner will receive a $100 MAC, Sephora, or Ulta Gift Card of your choice. Entering is easy, just use the widget below for a chance to win.

If you are unable to see the entry form below, please view the website from a desktop or laptop instead of a mobile device. a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Avon Partners with Fergie, Introducing New Fragrance Viva by Fergie

The Scent
Feminine. Empowered. Unconventional. Viva by Fergie is a sexy contradiction of captivating cool herbs spiked with fierce lavender and intriguing vetiver. A fragrance for women who want to live life on their own terms, inspired by one of today’s most empowering women, Fergie.

The Inspiration
With Viva by Fergie, you can channel the confident and empowered sexiness of singer, actress, model and icon, Fergie. The latest collaboration between Avon and the award-winning artist, Viva by Fergie is designed to empower the fearless woman within, celebrate feminine contrasts and live outside the bounds. A sexy, spirited and seductive fragrance, Viva by Fergie epitomizes the strength and independence of its namesake.

Fergie
Since first stepping in front of a crowd at the beginning of her career, Fergie has vowed to live life to the fullest—and live it on her own terms. Poised, determined, and ready to take on the world, Fergie has always listened to her instincts and trusted herself, helping her become the woman she is today. With Viva by Fergie, the musician’s fans are emboldened to seize the day and live by their own rules—just like Fergie herself.

Since 2009, Fergie has partnered with Avon, creating fragrances such as Outspoken and Outspoken Intense and supporting the causes of the Avon Foundation for Women. Fergie’s debut scent, Outspoken, remains the number one fragrance launch in Avon history. Fergie was awarded the 2011 FiFi ® New Fragrance Celebrity of the Year Award. This award recognizes a celebrity whose very first fragrance has enjoyed instant success with the consumer and brought recognition to the fragrance category.

The Notes
Captivating Cool Herbs Luscious greens and captivating herbs create a cool effect that invigorates and refreshes the senses. Fierce Lavender Fresh with floral, minty and spicy undertones, fierce lavender delivers a modern contrast between masculine and feminine notes Intriguing Vetiver One of the most beautiful woody notes, intriguing vetiver is wrapped in sweet leathery undertones adding depth and sensuality to
the fragrance.

Viva by Fergie ($30.00) will be available in February 2013 exclusively through Avon Representatives. To locate an Avon Representative call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visit www.avon.com.

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Rihanna Partners with MAC, Debuts RiRi Hearts MAC Collection for 2013

What can I say? She's a rebel by nature and unapologetic. Whether you love or hate her, there's no denying that she continues to set trends in every aspect of the word. I personally happen to love her, how can you not respect someone for being their true authentic self? In the fashion and beauty world I believe that those very qualities are what makes her so magnetic, brands love celebrities with appeal, individuality and a little fearlessness mixed in never hurts ;-)

I'm excited to learn that MAC Cosmetics has announced their upcoming collaboration with Rihanna, introducing the RiRi Hearts MAC Collection for 2013. While only one promo picture has surfaced thus far, the partnership will consist of four color collections due out later this year. Up first will be MAC RiRi Woo, which is a color inspired by Ruby Woo and will coincide with her upcoming May 4th and 5th concerts. The shade will be sold online and at Rihanna concerts.

The summer collection will be sold online, which includes two additional lipsticks, Lustre Drops, and a blush duo. The third will be in stores for fall and feature sixteen products, such as lipsticks, a Lipglass version of RiRi Woo, two eyeshadow palettes, and false lashes. The final installment will be in-stores in time for the holidays with ten products, like nail polish, a makeup bag, and more lipsticks. RiRi Woo will be sold in all four collections.

I'm so ready to get a glimpse at the rest of the line! To learn more about the collection and MAC's collaboration with Rihanna, check out the full article here.

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Intraceuticals: The Foundation to a Youthful Glow

Let's face it, we've all been there; it's the night before your special event and you're stressed about everything being perfect. Well, there's one thing that should be the least of your worries and that is your skin. Our faces are a personal canvas that speak to the world, which is why I believe in taking care of your skin to help retain a youthful glow.

Recently I had the wonderful opportunity to visit my local Spa Nordstrom where I was introduced to a unique line of spa treatments and complimentary skin care products called Intraceuticals. Intraceuticals is an innovative signature skin treatment with a breakthrough technology that uses oxygen and hyaluronic acid to promote the delivery of specially formulated serums to the skin. While there I also got to meet and chat with Celebrity Makeup Artist and Intraceuticals Brand Ambassador, Gina Brooke. I was especially excited to meet Gina because I am a fan of her artistry. She's created flawless looks for many celebrities over the years and continues to bring the best out in her clients natural beauty.

While chatting with Gina, what caught my attention the most is her passion for the Intraceuticals brand. Gina's philosophy is that with makeup, in order to achieve a flawless finish you must first start with a good canvas which is your skin. In the beauty and entertainment industry celebrities are constantly surrounded by bright lights and high definition cameras which show every crevice of their skin and can be unflattering if the surface underneath the makeup isn't healthy.

Intraceuticals has created quite a buzz among celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Naomi Campbell, Fergie, Rachel Zoe, Stacy London and Robin Thicke (yes, there are guys who love it too!). While tons of celebs are raving about it, you'll be glad to know that Intraceuticals is a product that anyone can use.

During my visit I got the chance to experience an Intraceuticals facial first hand. What's most unique about the oxygen treatment is that results are noticeable immediately and the procedure is simple and non-intrusive.While receiving my treatment the esthetician first cleansed my skin ensuring that it was free of makeup, dirt, and oils. She then started the treatment on half of my face so I could compare the results. The next step was applying a light amount of the rejuvenation serum which is packed with vitamins A, C, and E as well as hyaluronic acid and peptides (which all target common skin issues) Lastly, pressurized oxygen was applied to small sections of my face which worked to penetrate deep into my skin. Once the treatment was over I was given a mirror to compare the results of my skin including the treated side and the none treated side. Right away I noticed the difference. My face was glowing, my skin looked and felt smoother, I felt refreshed and I could tell a huge difference in the size of my pores!

Intraceuticals also has a line of at home products which rejuvenate and hydrate the skins natural texture. Over the past 2 weeks I've had the chance to play around with several of the products including the rejuvenation line and the boosters. I've noticed a significant change in the smoothness of my skin and the overall brightness of my complexion. What I love most about these products is that they are very lightweight and absorb quickly into the skin without leaving it feeling heavy; and to someone with oily skin like me I can truly appreciate that. I also like that the ingredients aren't harsh at all and are even suitable for sensitive skin types.

Intraceuticals Rejuvenate Collection, facts + benefits. 

Rejuvenate Hydration Gel continuously replenishes hydration to the skin and is designed to be applied twice daily after the Rejuvenate Daily Serum. Notice new found density and see how quickly skin gains a luminous smooth look and feel.

Rejuvenate Moisture Binding Cream The finishing touch is a thin application of Rejuvenate Moisture Binding Cream. This nourishing lightweight cream is designed to protect and defend against environmental stressors and address the visible signs of aging including: tightness and dehydration, fine lines and wrinkles and the loss of elasticity and firmness. Rejuvenate Moisture Binding Cream provides the perfect base for makeup application.

Rejuvenate Daily Serum The next best thing to an Intraceuticals Treatment is a twice daily application of Rejuvenate Daily Serum. It acts like a primer for the skin to maximize lasting hydration and keep your skin looking healthy and fresh all day long. This first step visibly revives and revitalizes skin hydration for enhanced volume and defined facial contour.

Intraceuticals Booster, facts + benefits. 

Antioxidant+ Booster revitalizes and balances dull, stressed skin with exceptionally powerful natural antioxidants sourced from the Australian Rainforest. The Antioxidant Booster defends against free radical damage and also addresses visible puffiness and dark circles around the eye area. Perfect for tired or travel weary skin.

Collagen+ Booster provides a potent cocktail of collagen messenger peptides to promote renewal and rejuvenation and helps to restore volume and tightness to skin that has lost its elasticity, tone and density.

Vitamin C+3 Booster helps strengthen, protect and support healthy skin with 3 synergistic forms of Vitamin C. Benefits all skin types but especially skin with signs of premature aging, irregular tone and sun damage.

Vitamin A+ Booster clarifies and refines the appearance of skin prone to blemishes, visible pores, sun damage, rough texture or deep wrinkles with a new “release on demand” form of Vitamin A for increased potency, enhanced product stability and reduced irritation.

 Intraceuticals+ Booster Clinic Treatments  
are currently available at Spa Nordstrom Atlanta at $245; for a 90 minute session. The at home products range from $29-$149. To learn more about Intraceuticals please visit http://intraceuticals.com.

Service(s) and Product(s) in this post were provided for post consideration. Read our disclosure policy here. 

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OPI Celebrates Disney’s Oz The Great and Powerful with Limited Edition Nail Lacquers + NEW Liquid Sand Hue

OPI announces the launch of six limited edition nail lacquers and a new Liquid Sand™ shade, inspired by Disney’s Oz The Great and Powerful. With an all-star cast that includes James Franco and Michelle Williams, this highly-anticipated film opens in theaters on March 8, 2013.

“OPI is very excited to take this fantastical journey with Disney,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director. “Inspired by the magic of Oz The Great and Powerful, this SoftShades collection captures the whimsy seen in the film, from glittery shades packed with white, gold and silvery iridescent confetti – Lights of Emerald City, When Monkeys Fly! and Which is Witch? – to soft neutrals in white, beige and pink – Don’t Burst My Bubble, Glints of Glinda and I Theodora You.

“The new Liquid Sand nail lacquer – What Wizardry is This? – features OPI’s groundbreaking technology for a textured, matte finish infused with reflective sparkle,” adds Weiss-Fischmann. “This rich taupe hue was designed for James Franco’s character, the great Wizard of Oz, and is sure to make a bold statement this spring.”

With a mix of soft crème and warm glitter shades, the line is ideal for layering to create rich, complex looks. In addition to the Liquid Sand nail lacquer in What Wizardry is This?, the promotion includes:

Lights of Emerald City

White confetti adds city girl flair and style to nails.

Don’t Burst My Bubble

Don’t wake me...I’m dreaming about puffy clouds of white.

When Monkeys Fly! 

I’m simply bananas for this gold confetti. 

Glints of Glinda

Only a good witch could turn beige from meek to chic.

Which is Witch?

Is this silver glitter with iridescent sparkle or the other way around?

I Theodora You

This adorable, sheer pink is bewitching on you.

What Wizardry is This? 

Liquid Sand

As with all OPI nail lacquers, the shades inspired by Oz The Great and Powerful contain no DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde, and feature OPI’s exclusive ProWide™ Brush for the ultimate in application.

This limited edition promotion will be available beginning March 2013 at Professional Salons, including Beauty Brands, Beauty First, Chatters, Dillard’s, jcp Salons, Pure Beauty, Regis, Trade Secret, and ULTA, for $9.00 ($10.95 CAN) suggested retail for each nail lacquer.

For more information, please call 800-341-9999 or visit www.opi.com. Follow OPI on Twitter @OPI_PRODUCTSand become a Facebook fan!

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