Oct 10, 2011

Show Your Colors

Fall is a time when nature puts on it's best colors.



How about you? If it's time for a change,try adding a new nail shade, or a bold lip color to your usual routine.



I recently purchased this gorgeous new nail lacquer from ESSIE, and I love it! Not only is the shade perfect for those cool autumn days, but the formula is glorious.


This is one of the best polishes I have ever picked up. The color is rich, you only really need one coat,and it goes on so smoothly, no streaks whatsoever,as well as dries to a shiny finish. Unlike other nail shades, you almost don't need a top coat, I only used a quick drying finish  instead of a heavy top coat,because the shine was amazing.




I'm wearing VERY STRUCTURED here,and for $8.00, I think I have fallen in love with this brand. I am looking forward to trying some other shades that are part of their fall collection. Plums, tans, and deep berry shades  will all turn heads.


Show some colors!  After all, why let nature have all the fun?

Until next time~

Hugs and Hearts,
BellevueGrl

Photo Credits:

All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011

Oct 4, 2011

"Chill Out"

When I was asked to review a new skin care product for Beautystat, I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical. I have rather fussy skin, and have spent alot of time trying out products to find the perfect balance. I was curious to see what a moisturizer called "Zen Attitude" would do for my sensitive,porcelain complexion.


Dr. Jules Nabet has created a line of skincare products that recently launched in France, and has now made it's way to the US. This particular product was developed with "older" skin in mind and is geared towards reducing environmental stress from the skin, such as pollution,dehydration,temperature changes,etc. If you're on the go,this is the perfect cream for you.

Now again, here comes the "skeptical" part. Reading the ingredients, I learned that it contained yam.. Yep, that feeling of putting anything even close to sweet potatoes on my face made me cringe at first. It conjured  up butter,marshmallows, and brown sugar, and yeah, that bright orange baby food mess. But when I first put some on my fingers to use, I soon got over that , and loved the overall texture and feeling.


The product comes in a tube,it is fluffy and light, with a very pleasant,clean fragrance. Not at all greasy or oily.

It contains Soya and Yam that is supposed to have pyto enzymes (that protect against aging) and it is blended with vitamins F,and E,along with Siberian Ginseng that help to "wake up" your skin, and give it a radiant look. It's like a cup of coffee for your face.

The instructions are to use this both day and night,and to apply during periods of stress to your skin. So if you are traveling,on the go, hoping from place to place, this is a great way to relax your skin. Just the name in itself "Zen Attitude" would make me reach for it.

My assignment was to use this for two weeks, then report on how I liked it. My first few days I noticed my skin looked less tired, and by that I mean more refreshed. it absorbed quickly.  By weeks end, I noted that the results were only temporary,similar to the effects of other products on the market containing caffeine, and that after four or five hours,one would need to reapply to get the same "refreshed" look.

After using this for a little over two weeks, I really didn't see any anti-aging benefits,although I have good skin to start out with. For me, it was a little too rich,but I feel it would be perfect for someone who needs a deeper moisturizer for their skin. As mentioned above, this would also ideal for jet-lagged skin.

Is it worth it? For me, no. The reason is that I can achieve the same results with my current products, and the price of $69.00 just doesn't justify itself.

**** DISCLAIMER****

BeautyStat has provided me with this product sample,a complimentary new skincare product from Dr. Jules Nabet Skincare as a way of compensation for my time and the review. However, all opinions are my own after personally testing this product myself.

**** SPECIAL DISCOUNT OFFER****
If you’re curious about shopping for other skincare items in the line, indulge in a special Friends & Family Discount of 30% by entering the code word ILOVENABET upon checkout. This offer is valid until November 30th.

Visit Dr. Jules Nabet's website at:http://www.drjulesnabetskincare.com/Zen-Attitude-Cream_p_11.html

Until next time~

Hugs and Hearts
BellevueGrl

Photo Credits:

All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011


For all things beauty,visit Beautystat.com

Oct 3, 2011

An Evening With Zaharoff

George poses with Evan Martin
One of the most popular mens designers just launched a whirlwind collection made especially for women.

I recently had the opportunity to meet designer George Zaharoff face to face at a mobile "tweet-up" held at Nordstrom in Bellevue Square.

George and I had been tweeting recently,and we became fast friends,along with his sidekick Giuseppe Longo (@FashionClassJet) 

Piccolo steals the spotlight
 Piccolo,Zararoff's Italian Greyhound was also on site to greet guests with lots of doggie kisses.


This new collection is nothing short of wonderful.

I asked George how long it took to go from concept (design) to reality (the actual,physical product) Normally ,it can take up to a year, but for this collection,the pieces will be limited,and would only take about 30 days from time of concept to finished product,and the priceline would be affordable fashion, mixed with luxe fabrics.

Anyone who knows this gentleman's designer would agree that quality and style is foremost in his designs. 

Expect to see everything from jackets to pants, vests, and gorgeous,flowing tops with fabric coming from Italy, and France!

I'm excited to see this idea come to life,and the pieces offered are stylish, fun,and flirty! There is something there to meet the needs of both casual wear, as well as business wear.

Take a peek at ZedZaharoff.com  for yourself!

Until next time~
Hugs and Hearts,
BellevueGrl 



Photo Credits:

All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not  be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011

Sep 22, 2011

A "Prime" Example


Korres Quercetin & Oak Antiageing Eye Primer

In one of my previous posts,I wrote about the importance of taking the time to prime your face before putting on foundation and eye makeup.

Here, for Beautystat,I review a brand new product from Korres that not only primes the eye ,but also helps prevent lines and wrinkles for both lids and under eye areas.  Think of it as a  3-in one multi-tasker. With our fast paced life,who couldn't use a "do-it-all" magic wand, right?

 Quercetin & Oak contain powerful natural antioxidants without Parabens,Synthetic Dyes,Synthetic Fragrances,or Sulfates. So you get softer skin,improved texture,and a soft apricot shade that corrects darkness and imperfections, not only under the eye, but on the eyelid itself,without heavy chemicals found in other products. It's earned one of Sephora's Natural Seals (there are over 1,400..and passes natural beauty standards)

After visiting the Korres USA Website, I found that Quercetin & Oak is the first clinically proven NATURAL alternative to Retinol! Read more here: https://discoverkorres.korresusa.com/

The primer goes on smoothly,and covers well. For best results,gently pat into eyelid area,and softly blend under eye. I noticed a crease-proof improvement that pretty much lasted all day.

Wear test: On a scale of 1-10 I would give this product a 7. Would I buy it again? Yes, I liked the overall coverage of the primer,and that it is made with natural ingredients,and that  it comes from a very trusted brand. Eye makeup removal was easy, and my eye area felt moisturized.


Korres Quercetin & Oak Antiageing Eye Primer  can be found exclusively at Sephora or sephora.com
for $21.00 or by visiting the Korres USA.com website :https://www.korresusa.com/product/7014/eye-primer


*** Disclaimer***

Beautystat provided me with this product sample, so that I could review it in real time, and pass on the benefits to you. However all opinions here are my own,objective opinion. Size shown here is a sample size of the actual product.
Visit http://www.beautystat.com/  for all the latest news on what keeps your life beautiful!




Until next time~
Hearts and Hugs,
BellevueGrl

 Photo Credits:

Korresusa.com

All other photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011

Sep 20, 2011

FALL TO PIECES

Easy separates are often the best way to transition your wardrobe to fall.

Pair  patterned tops with skirts,add a belt,and ankle boots for a great day to night look. A soft clutch  does double duty.

One of my favorite pieces is a faux leather jacket that I bought last year at Dress Barn. It features a snap collar, and zipped sleeves . The fabric is buttery soft, and can be worn with jeans or a skirt,or even paired with a nice pair of dress pants.



I scouted the store online and was able to find a jacket that was featured there that is a similar style to this one. $59.99 at Dress Barn or Dressbarn.com




There's something really versatile about a chic sweater dress. Paired with a jacket or by itself,or with a statement necklace,it's always a smart choice. $39.99 also at Dress Barn.


A light weight cascade cardigan is my pick for a cool night,or days at the football game. You can layer this with anything from tees to a blouse. I found a similar one online at Dressbarn.com for $34.99


Finally,a great pair of heels can transition a look from plain to pzazz in no time. These are from DSW shoes. A lively bronze shade ,not your usual black will add style to jeans,skirts and more,and can go from office to cocktail party in a flash.




When in doubt, "fall to pieces" as your go to choice.

Until next time~

Hugs and Hearts,
BellevueGrl



Photo Credits:

DressBarn.com  http://www.dressbarn.com/detail/solid-cowl-sweater-dress/100921530/501 ,http://www.dressbarn.com/detail/long-sleeve-cascade-cardigan/100881431/199,http://www.dressbarn.com/detail/quilted-faux-leather-motocross-jacket/100893964/390

Dswshoes.com http://www.dsw.com/shoe/nine+west+sayra+sandal?prodId=218051&category=dsw12cat1420002&productRef=CROSS:




 All other photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011

Sep 9, 2011

Hitting The Scene..Fashion's Night Out (Bellevue Style)


Fashion,food,and fun were on the menu last night as Bellevue celebrated it's own version of FNO. There were two venues to choose from,with live fashion shows,in-store events,and after party's.



The Bravern had two main shows, one at Neiman Marcus,and the other show at Anthropoligie. Models strutted the latest creations from their new fall line,and separates made a huge splash for the season.

The Bellevue Collection held it's own party, and I was in attendance.

Folks lined up early center court for live entertainment,photo booths,swag bags, food, (Dry Soda Company,PinkABella Cupcakes,and yummy bites from Joey's)

Not to mention bags filled with coupons and give aways from Aveda,Tully's, and more.
Live models hit the stage to show off pieces from Macy's,Cache`, and Banana Republic.

Attitude is key. Lots of accessories from hats to belted sweaters,and sky high heels were shown.

Printed and patterned tops, leopard skirts,and lots of red popped up for one of the "it" shades of autumn. Brightly colored jeans are back, for both men and women.


I'm looking forward to seeing what else is in store later this month at the Nordstrom Fashion Show. I'll be there to cover all the details and happenings around town. Not to mention,a special "tweetup" September 24th.

 There will be an in-store show called "Fashion,Class, and Jet lag"  at Nordstrom from 4-7 pm that evening with designer, and friend, George Zaharoff.

Be sure to come by and say "Hello" during the #ZLive event.



Step out in style!

Until next time~
Hugs and Hearts,
BellevueGrl








Photo Credits:

All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011

Sep 3, 2011

Ode To A Cupcake (Or Two)

As you know,every now and then,I stray from the beauty and fashion world,and cover a story on a great local business that I have discovered. It's my blog, I get to do that! Lol!

I simply had to share with you, a delightful cupcake shop that I have had the pleasure of visiting quite a few times.

There are lots of cupcake shops and bakery's in Bellevue,but the quality and variety is what keeps me coming back to one in particular,not to mention the friendly and fun staff.

What sets New York Cupcakes apart from the rest is that they are consistently good.They don't taste like the mass market brands you see everyday. These cupcakes are "hefty".. they are filled with buttercream,carmel,fruit,or marshmallow,and topped again with sweet, real, buttercream frosting. This isn't the air whipped kind. This is the real thing. Just like your Grandmother used to make  from scratch,and when you were a kid, used to beg to lick the spoon kind of frosting.

No matter which creation you choose, they somehow always manage to taste like they came straight from your very own kitchen.

I'm in love with several;from their wonderful all vanilla "Pure Bliss" to their "Orange Dreamcicle",along with their perfect "Long Island Lemon".


Each and every one looks handcrafted with love and a pinch of pixie dust.


New York Cupcakes  is also extra special to their facebook fans,and have almost daily deals and specials.If you're not a fan, you should be!

Find out more by visiting their website at http://www.newyorkcupcakes.com

Once you taste these,you'll be back again and again.

New York Cupcakes is located at the Crossroads Shopping Center right next to Common Folk in Bellevue.


Good taste is oh so "fashionable"

Until next time~

Hugs and Hearts,
BellevueGrl







Photo Credits:

All photos are property of the blog owner, and may not be used without permission.
BellevueGrl Productions, 2011.