Having a difficult time selecting gifts for the fabulous women in your life, or do you simply need inspiration? Well fret no more, here is a list of a few of my favorite beauty bargains that make fantastic gifts for your friends (or for yourself). Happy Shopping!
Why is it that men have the most amazing eyelashes that are longer and more luscious than women (I would trade eyelashes with my fiancée in a heartbeat)? All of us girls desire to have natural lashes that mimic those of expensive lash extensions, and Lancome Hypnose Mascara gives you that effect. Being a true and loyal MAC Girl I very rarely venture outside of the brand for products, however after using this product once I was instantly addicted. If you’re an ingredient conscious gal don’t fret, this intense formula is packed with Vitamin B5 for nourishment and extra conditioning. Take your lashes from mediocre to glamorous with two coats of this mascara. Glide the brush gently from root to tip for instantly noticeable voluptuous lashes. Lancome Hypnose Mascara retails for $27 and can be found at Sephora locations and department stores across the country or online at www.sephora.com.
My mother purchased this for me last Christmas and I am obsessed with it! Estheticians utilize this brush when performing facials on virtually every skin type. It removes makeup six times better than traditional methods, Clears pores and reduces the appearance of pore size, Cleanses so thoroughly that skincare products absorb better, and Creates noticeably healthier looking skin. If your skin is problematic in any way I guarantee that using this product will drastically improve its appearance. It retails for $150, however it prevents you from ever needing a facial again making it well worth the price and a definite beauty bargain!! I suggest making the brush a part of your morning skincare regimen, however using it once daily (at night) is extremely effective as well. The Clarisonic Skincare Brush can be purchased at Nordstrom at nordstrom.com
As women we can all agree that manis and pedis are not only mind blowing, but one of the key components to our fabulousness. However, with the recent hard times many of us have been forced to eliminate unnecessary expenses, which all too commonly means self-pampering. I found a solution that allows me to maintain my appearance while staying within my budget. While I had always been hesitant to try gel nail polish, I recently came across the Red Carpet Manicure Starter Kit at Ulta. Don’t be intimidated by the gel formulation, this product applies like a polish while providing an immaculate manicure that lasts for nearly three weeks through laundry, cleaning and other daily activities. The kit retails for $29.99, but lasts for up to a year for most consumers, which is why it is on my list of beauty bargains. You can get it at ulta.com
I have always been a fan of jewelry from a very young age. I requested my first pair of 14kt Gold bamboo earrings with my name on them at the tender age of 10. I am also a huge fan of Carrie Bradshaw from Sex And The City and have a strong appreciation for her courageous fashion sense and love of adornment. One of my favorite pieces of hers is her “Carrie” nameplate necklace. It is classic permanent jewelry (pieces that are appropriate for everyday wear) that is stylish and fabulous. I have an “April” 14kt Gold nameplate necklace, as well as a nameplate necklace that reads “Love” in dainty script. This necklace is a perfect gift selection for the young ladies in your life, as it will never go out of style. If you live in a big city like Los Angeles or New York you can visit the jewelry stands at reputable local outdoor flea markets for similar necklaces. You’ll be amazed at what treasures you can find. Also, Zales is currently having an online sale featuring these necklaces at beauty bargain prices. Visit www.zales.com to browse their extensive collection.
This perfume has been my favorite since my awkward middle school era and I cannot seem to move on. I’ve tried hundreds of scents since then and nothing is comparable to the chemistry between myself and Happy. There’s a reason why this sweet citrus formulation of ruby red grapefruit, bergamot, Hawaiian wedding flower and spring mimosa is Clinique’s best-selling women’s fragrance of all time. The fragrance literally lifts your spirits the minute you spray a few pumps on, and lingers throughout the day for prolonged satisfaction. This is the perfect gift for any woman on your list. Clinique Happy is sold at virtually every department store and you can find it online at www.nordstroms.com
