Mischo Beauty + Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Spring 2009 Collections • September 5 - 12, 2008 • New York

I'm on my way and I can't wait! I'll be reporting on spring trends in beauty (hair, skin, makeup & nails) as they relate to the collections on the runway. Stay tuned for my posts on Venexiana, Tracy Reese, Terexov, Tibi, Thuy, Karen Walker, Geova, Costello Tagliapietra, Herve Leger, Binetti, Carmen Marc Valvo, Badgley Mischka and Baby Phat.

I'll also bring you the best in beauty from Bobbi Brown, Aveda, MAC, Creative Nail Design, Davines, Mally Roncal, Dermalogica, 3LAB and Molton Brown. Whew! So, please be sure to continue to check back for updates throughout the day and over the weekend!

Because You're Worth It!: Spa Anne Semonin au Bristol

Ultimate Journey of Anne Semonin Beauty at Spa Anne Semonin au Bristol. Paris, France.

Beautiful hair needs an expert: Kerastase Noctogenist

I'm a huge fan of Kerastase products after having worked with just about all of them during my apprenticeships. After seeing ads for the Kerastase Noctogenist line in foreign fashion magazines and then reading about it in the July issue of ELLE, it's finally been released in the U.S. It's an overnight conditioning leave-in treatment; the Voile Nuit for Fine Hair and the Serum Nuit for Thick Hair. Both are formulated with vitamin E, which provides protection and moisture; and amino acids, which help to strengthen and revive the hair. In case you didn't know, hair is 91% protein and protein is made up of amino acids! The best part of the Noctogenist line is that, according to the Kerastase website, it leaves no residue on pillows! I recommend this for the jet-setting Sienna Miller and I recommend it for you too!

What's your favorite Kerastase product?

Mischo Beauty Closet: Nails Inc. Glamour 3 Pack Colour Collection + Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Slingback

This week, take your pick: Nails Inc. Glamour 3 Pack Colour Collection (London Nights: jet black; Kabaret: ink navy & Victoria & Albert: pillar box red) + Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Slingback = New York Fashion Week

Mischo Beauty Pick: Crabtree & Evelyn Naturals Cocoa Butter, Nutmeg & Cardamom Body Scrub and Mint, Fennel & Ivy Body Polisher

The exfoliant addict in me loves Crabtree & Evelyn Naturals Cocoa Butter, Nutmeg & Cardamom Body Scrub and the Mint, Fennel & Ivy Body Polisher. If you've been keeping up with my blog, then you definitely know the benefits of using exfoliants by now! The body polisher has been serving as my mornng "pick-me-up" as of late. It's an exfoliant and cleanser all in one, so as it cleanses it also removes dead skin cells and leaves my skin soft and smooth. Though the scent is very soft and pleasing to the senses, it still gives me that extra little boost I need in the mornings.

The body scrub is a thick combination of "sugar and powdered coconut shell" which works together to polish the skin and leave it amazingly smooth! It contains cocoa butter, which moisturizes and helps to firm the skin. I only use this once a week, as it's a more intense exfoliant and the results last (depending on your skin type/issues) for, at the very least, a week or more!

What's your favorite body scub/body polish?

Mischo Beauty Review: Amazon Beauty’s Rahua Shampoo & Conditioner

I was excited to try Amazon Beauty's Rahua Shampoo & Conditioner after I learned they're formulated for color-treated and delicate hair, and that they contain no sulfates, parabens, dyes or petroleum ingredients. My hair is transitioning from relaxed to natural and the combination of the two textures makes it highly susceptible to breakage.

After using the shampoo and conditioner, I am pleased with the results and continue to use it due to the fact that they contain the Rahua Elixir. Rahua is a hair oil, extracted from the rahua nut, which strengthens the hair and penetrates deep into the hair shaft. Over time, delicate, dry and lifeless hair is returned to a strong, healthy and growing state. This excites me and I'm willing to continue to allow it to work it's magic so that I can experience all the benefits!

Mischo Beauty Pick: Nailtiques Cremes, Oil & More

I received a few emails asking me for the specific names of the Nailtiques products pictured in Tuesday's post. Here they are- and they are must-haves:

- Nailtiques Nail Moisturizer
- Nailtiques Cuticle & Skin Gel
- Nailtiques Cuticle & Hand Conditioner
- Nailtiques Avocado Foot Creme
- Nailtiques Oil Therapy
- Nailtiques Non-Acetone Remover

Most of you know that I'm an easy pedicure, as I don't cut my cuticles and I exfoliate my feet in the shower almost everyday. But, I decided to treat my feet to some extra TLC after thinking about all of the walking, standing and running from show to show that I had to look forward to at Fashion Week. I loved the results from all of the Nailtiques products, but the two that stand out the most are the non-acetone remover and the avocado foot creme.

If you remember last week's nail polish pick, then you know it was a dark nail polish color. Surprisingly, one cotton ball saturated with the non-acetone remover pretty much removed the nail polish from one hand! It's non-drying on the nails and contains conditioners such as aloe vera. I loved the consistency of the avocado foot creme- it's thick and creamy and I've been using it at night and waking up to soft and smooth feet.

Of course I still love the oil therapy- as I told you a few months ago. And, I'll be taking the cuticle & hand conditioner with me this weekend to ensure my hands stay soft and moisturized.

Have you tried Nailtiques products?

Mischo Beauty Extra: "Killa Red" Nail Polish by Rescue Beauty Lounge

I'm revisiting an old favorite this week. Remember my trip to Rescue Beauty Lounge? Well it was during that visit that I fell in love with their Killa Red nail polish. I thought it would be the perfect color to take me to Fashion Week. It's a "cool blue-toned red", so it's not too bright but definitely makes a bold statement and perfectly blends with the deep berry shades of fall.

What do you think?

Mischo Beauty School: Haircuts 101

I continue to receive the same question with regards to how to go about achieving a great haircut. It's actually a perfect time to revisit this topic- with the arrival of Fall, it's a great time to consider reinventing your look! But, just last week I had my own hair cut and hated it! I know exactly why my haircut went wrong. Though I've been seeing the same stylist for about a year now- I guess I've just gotten too comfortable with her. There was no consultation and no discussion of haircut photos, and I ended up with a lopsided haircut. For those that read my FHI Heat Platform 1" Special Edition review last week, you know that I went home and washed my hair out in an effort to try to fix my bad haircut!

At any rate, every haircut is made up of a combination of basic techniques used to create varying shapes and effects on the hair. Before having your haircut, I recommend the following:

- Consultation with stylist (discuss face shape, hair texture and lifestyle)

- Review haircut pictures with stylist

- Consider home maintenance requirements

- Be realistic

Taking the above into consideration will ensure that you and the stylist agree on the best direction and that the stylist has adequate information to achieve the desired end result. Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions. Oh, and I'd love to hear your haircut stories! Love your hair.

(photos courtesy of behindthechair.com & Janell Geason, NAHA Make-Up Artist of the Year/)

Because You're Worth It!: Cornelia Day Resort

Here's what I suggest: Urban Renewal Facial + Therapeutic Stone Massage + Signature Pedicure at Cornelia Day Resort. New York City.

Mischo Beauty Closet: Opaque White Nail Polish by Rescue Beauty Lounge + Dior's Purple Suede Sandals

Opaque White Nail Polish by Rescue Beauty Lounge + Dior's Purple Suede Sandals = A MILLI

Beautiful hair needs an expert: Miss Jessie's Shampoo & Conditioner

Titi and Miko are back and they've just launched their "Creme De La Curl" shampoo (sulfate free) & "Creme De La Creme" conditioner! All you of Curly Pudding and Curly Buttercreme lovers should check it out!

Mischo Beauty Still Loves Kerry Washington

I know you all know I love Kerry- and yes, I do realize that I have more than enough posts on her (smile)! Well I couldn't let this one slip by. She's in the September/October issue of GIANT magazine and this photo shoot is definitely more on the risque side - it definitely surprised me! I was too excited to learn that Kiyah Wright (one of my favorite celebrity hairstylists) was responsible for her hair. Anyway I love the shoot and I LOVE those shoes!!!!

Makeup: Carlos Gonzales at The Wall Group
Hair: Kiyah Wright at Ken Barboza
Manicure: Yuna Park
Photographer: Milo Lim
Stylist: Kotsiopoulos at Maldonado

Mischo Beauty: 3LAB Fashion Week Survival Kit

Because my degree is in chemistry and one of my goals is to launch a product line of my own one day, I'm loving the fact that 3LAB was founded by two chemists and a dermatologist! 3LAB is best known for producing products with the highest-grade of botanical ingredients and the highest percentages of anti-oxidant ingredients in the industry. Wow!

So when 3LAB heard about my plans for Fashion Week (yes, I'm anxiously counting down!) they were so gracious enough to send me a 3LAB Fashion Week Survival Kit. It includes the Perfect Cleansing Scrub, Perfect Repair and the WW Eye Cream. I will post my full review in a few weeks, as I prefer to test skincare products for a minimum of 3-4 weeks (as most of you know) - so please be sure to check back! Until then, I will be taking advantage of all the beauty sleep I'm able to get, (skin cells repair themselves most when we're sleeping) because I'll need all the energy I can get in preparation for my upcoming Fashion Week adventure!

Mischo Beauty Review: FHI Heat Platform 1" Special Edition

I just started using my FHI Heat Platform 1" Special Edition flat iron and I must tell you that I'm so pleased with the results (and you all know I've used my fair share of flat irons!)! You see I had an appointment with my stylist on Wednesday and hated the way she styled my hair, so I went home and washed it out. Yes, I know, money washed down the drain... but life goes on! I applied the FHI Heat Hot Sauce and I let my hair air dry and decided to give the flat iron a try. I skipped the blow dry, because I really wanted to see what this flat iron could do and when I tell you it proved itself- it really did!

The flat iron is light weight, so it's very easy on the wrist and you're able to adjust the temperature dial from 140 F to 450 F, depending on your hair's texture and needs. I definitely needed a higher temperature setting due to the fact that I decided to skip my blow dry. But best of all- I'm happy I don't have to worry about dry/fried hair from flat ironing. The ceramic plates are tourmaline treated which results in a high negative ion count. This means that more water is allowed to be absored into the hair; therefore moisture is sealed in, enhancing the conditoin of the hair. My hair loved it, I loved using it- I'm sold!

Mischo Beauty Pick: Nouba Lipstick by NARS

I've fallen in love with a new lipstick as of late, and it's Nouba by NARS. It's a sheer, "ginger with shimmer", and on me the look is that of a "sexy, nude lip with a hint of sparkle". The application is smooth and the formula contains vitamin E, so I my lips stay soft and moisturized. I've even been wearing the Turkish Delight lip gloss (that I bought this past weekend) over it which adds a soft hint of pink to my lips. It's such a pretty transition into fall.

NARS Lipstick Nouba
NARS Lip Gloss Turkish Delight

Mischo Beauty Pick: Jurlique Biodynamic Beauty Range

I first learned about the "biodynamic" label earlier this year after reading an issue of WWD Beauty Biz, and it's simply used to certify products above and beyond the "natural" and "organic" certifications. I was given the opportunity to try Jurlique's new Biodynamic Beauty Range, which consists of a serum, eye cream, night lotion and refining treatment. You all know how much I love skincare, and so I was more than excited about this opportunity. Now I will tell you that I did supplement the collection with my own cleanser, toner, mask and SPF (which is all part of my normal skincare regimen). As I've previously mentioned, exfoliants are essential to any skincare regimen and so I had to hold myself back from using the refining treatment everyday! Once a week was enough for me- but I always advise using according to your skin type/needs. This left my skin soft and polished, which explains the temptation to overuse. It's formulated with Apricot Seed Powder, which helps with the removal of dead skin cells, and Willow Bark Extract, which aids in cell renewal.

I used the eye cream under my moisturizer during the day and under the serum at night. I used just enough to cover my finger tip. The formula, which contains Black Elder and Licorice, works to firm the skin around the eyes, while reducing dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles and puffiness. I also found that it brightened the area after having used it for a month. I only used the serum at night because I prefer a light moisturizer with SPF during the day. Three pumps was enough for my face, neck and decollete (second face!), because as I've said before, serums are highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way! The serum is formulated with Beech Tree Buds, Blue Algae and Hibiscus which work to keep the skin firm and reduce signs of aging. And we all know that the first signs of aging usually appear around the eyes, neck and hands.

The night lotion was applied after the eye cream and serum, and I found that it left my skin soft and moisturized in the morning. Interestingly, it's formulated with a botanical ingredient called Marshmallow for intense hydration. After repeated use of this collection, my skin feels soft, smooth and I've been complemented repeatedly on my glow!

Have you tried any of the Jurlique products?

Mischo Beauty Review: Sunkist Naturals Pomegranate Sunshine

For those of you who follow my Twitter updates, you know I try to start the day with something healthy. Sometimes it's a smoothie, or tomato juice & green magma, or OJ & psyllium husks, and I usually supplement whatever it is I choose to have with a multivitamin, borage oil, omega 3 oils, green tea and lots of water. When I was asked to try Sunkist Natural's new Pomegranate Sunshine smoothie, my first thought was that I write about beauty and not food, but after thinking about it a while longer, it only made sense for me to try it because essentially beauty starts from within and if you aren't following a healthy diet, it will easily show itself in your hair, skin and nails! So I welcomed the opportunity and I must say that I do like the flavor- it's a blend of pomegranate juice (high in antioxidants) and it's rich in vitamins A, B and C. It's about 130 calories, 0 fat, 0 cholesterol and contains 1 gram of protein per serving. There's no added sugar, preservatives or artificial ingredients. The benefits, along with the price, make it worth a try!

Mischo Beauty Extra: Sephora by OPI's "I'm With Brad"

I completely fell in LOVE with this week's nail polish pick! It's the little things in life that bring the most joy! When I walked into Sephora my intention was only to quickly pick up Turkish Delight by NARS and Stila's Kajal Eye Liner and be on my way. I didn't want to get caught up in the Georgetown crowds- my intention was to run two errands and head home to relax after having such a wonderful acupuncture appointment earlier that morning. Well the Sephora by OPI display stopped me dead in my tracks! The complete collection includes 54 shades that retail for $9 and are exclusive to Sephora.

It was love at first site with "I'm With Brad", which is described as a "shimmering wine over dark coffee". You're not going to believe this (know I couldn't) but I actually drove to a Sephora in Maryland because the Georgetown Sephora was completely sold out of it! The things I do for my blog....(smile). Not only was this love at first site- but seriously, it was a dream come true! ONE coat was all I needed to achieve the color in the bottle! The finish isn't as neat this week- I polished my nails on Sunday after making a donation at the American Red Cross, so my energy level was close to nothing- but at least you'll get an idea of the "look & feel". Also, now that dark colors are the trend for fall, they look best on short manicured nails and always use a base coat to keep the polish from staining your nails.

What do you think?

SEPHORA by OPI Nail Colour I'm With Brad
NARS Lip Gloss Turkish Delight
Stila Kajal Eye Liner Onyx

Mischo Beauty School: Haircolor 101

I've received quite a few emails lately asking me if my haircolor is natural. And the answer is "YES!". My grandmother and a few of her brothers had red hair, so it skipped my mother and luckily I was next in line. And while I love it now, it made for a very interesting childhood- to say the least! Anyway, since completing cosmetology school and haircolor apprenticeships at Vidal Sassoon and Red Door, I've become very passionate about haircolor and yes, I'm writing about it again! I've done root touch-ups, highlights, gray coverage, bleach & tones, highlift blondes, and single & double haircolor processes. Believe it or not, I was always able to find a model that needed one of these services and the results always left me amazed and excited about the next challenge.

With that said, let's discuss haircolor. It falls into four categories: temporary, semipermanent, demipermanent, and permanent.

1. Temporary haircolor coats the hair shaft and is easily removed by shampooing. Examples include: color rinses or color-enhancing shampoos.

2. Semipermanent haircolor partially penetrates the hair shaft and slowly fades with shampooing. It doesn't lighten the hair and is usually used to enhance fading haircolor.

3. Demipermanent haircolor doesn't lighten hair and, like semipermanent haircolor, it is used to enhance fading haircolor. It penetrates the hair shaft and lasts longer than semipermanent haircolor.

4. Permanent haircolor is used to lighten hair and also to cover grey. It remains in the hair shaft until the growth of new hair.

Any questions? Feel free to ask away! Love your hair.

(photos courtesy of essence.com)

Because You're Worth It! Phyto Universe

My love of hair is what started this amazing journey that I'm on and so I'm recommending that you treat yourself to a microscopic study of your hair, precise product prescription, private shampoo, scalp massage, conditioning treatment, and styling! Why not give your hair a spa day? And, if you have time, consider a facial, body treatment or waxing. Phyto Universe. New York City.

Beautiful hair needs an expert: Rene Furterer Complexe 5

I've had the opportunity to use almost all of the Rene Furterer products during my apprenticeship at Elizabeth Arden Red Door. I was always very impressed with how nurturing the products were and the fact that this line contains essential oils and plant extracts formulated to keep the scalp healthy and strengthen the hair. I love that there is a full treatment regimen which can be prescribed, depending on your hair type and needs.

For Tamia's color-treated hair, I'd recommend the Complexe 5 Regenerating Extract which is a pre-shampoo treatment. It's a blend of essential oils which work together to stimulate and invigorate the scalp, prior to shampooing. This ultimately prepares the scalp for ultimate penetration of the shampoo and conditioning treatments, leaving both the scalp and hair revitalized, strong and healthy.

Pair this treatment with a scalp massage and you're in heaven. I know because I've both had and preformed the service!

Anyone using a pre-shampoo treatment you love?

Mischo Beauty Closet: Yves Saint Laurent #36 Rich Coffee Nail Polish + Patent Crisscross Peep-Toe Pump by Burberry

Yves Saint Laurent #36 Rich Coffee Nail Polish + Patent Crisscross Peep-Toe Pump by Burberry = Why Don't We Fall In Love

Mischo Beauty Alert: MAC Cult of Cherry

Yes, another collection from MAC is here! I'm loving all of the dark, rich colors. I haven't worn dark lipstick since the days of Chanel's Vamp, so I'm anxious to test out the colors in this collection.

"The new forbidden fruit. Deep, dark, dramatic. Lips ripened with juicy cerises and intoxicating kirsches while eyes smoulder in luscious spiced chocolate. With its sense of way-to-go dark, this is how we separate the bitter from the sweet...Fall drama just got more delicious. "

What do you think?

Mischo Beauty Alert: Yves Saint Laurent Gloss Pur Black

I can't wait to try this! It screams "runway!"... I'm envisioning it layered on top of a rich red or plum colored lipstick. This limited edition lip gloss is available for pre-order only online:

"A cosmetic jewel that turns lips into a spectacular fashion statement.

Mysterious, sensual, luminous… .

For fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, black is THE color. And as a make-up artist, lips are THE focus. YSL GLOSS PUR Black unites these two facets of his art in a superb Limited Edition.

From plum to ebony, it dresses lips in an infinite range of shades, depending on how it is applied – feather light or rich and bold. Transparent yet intense, it plays on the depths of black and the pure shine of a sparkle-free formula."

Are you planning to order it?

Mischo Beauty: Kate Hudson's W Magazine September 2008 Cover

I'm was searching for the September issues of British Vogue and ELLE UK (must have those covers!) when I stumbled upon Kate Hudson on the cover of W magazine. Her makeup is amazing!

Makeup: Charlotte Tilbury
Hair: Luigi Murenu
Manicure: Yuna Park
Photographers: Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott
Stylist: Alex White

Mischo Beauty Product Review: L'Oreal Bare Naturale Mascara

I know I can never go wrong with L'oreal's Voluminous Original mascara and so I'm always excited to try their new launches. The Bare Natural Mascara reminds me of the Voluminous Naturale (which I reviewed a few months ago) except that it leaves my lashes softer, even after multiple applications. The formulation is different, in that it doesn't contain parabens and it's fiber free. It also contains jojoba oil, vitamin E and aloe; and it still gives me "natural" volume, length and definition. The features I just mentioned, combined with the price, make it worth a try!