Beauty Moment - Usher VIP Cologne

No, that's not a typo. A men's cologne is being featured as a Beauty Moment. My husband's been testing Usher's VIP cologne*, a test I considered a success because it smells incredibly sexy on him. After I accidentally spilled the cologne all over the bathroom vanity and myself, I decided the scent smells equally sexy on me!

VIP is a sensual mix of nutmeg and saffron; the warmth of that combo is balanced by bergamot and tangerine. It all combines together to create a clean scent that's masculine to the very core. Dabbed onto a woman's skin, that masculinity morphs into a powerful essence, feminine and mysterious all at once.

Photo credit: Macys.com

Nude Shoes

Gone are the days of matching your shoes to your belt and bag. I know, it's been hard for a lot of us to get used to the the idea of colors "going together" instead of "matching together." Once you've mastered that concept (black shoes, green bag, red belt - it works!), dip your toes into nude shoes.

A nude heel, one that closely matches your natural skintone, is many things: sophisticated, easy to pull off, and an instant elongator. Nude is the new black - the color that really does go with anything.

Pair nude heels with a dress or skirt in any color; it works because your eye will be fooled into thinking that the shoe is just an extension of your legs. You won't have to worry about your ankles looking stumpy, finding a pair of shoes to match that fancy skirt you never wear because it's a unique shade of coral, or braving strappy sandals in the dead of winter because full heels look too heavy with your party dress. No matter your skintone - from the very fairest to the deepest brown - there's a nude shoe out there with your name on it.

Enzo Angiolini's Merryann Pump in Natural Patent. Jessica Simpson "Jessica Pump" in Tan Leather.

Photo credit: People.com; Nordstrom.com

Wanna Be a Featured Bombshell Beauty?

I always find the most inspiration for my own personal style from real women that I see on the street or on other blogs. It's especially helpful to see images of plus size women - because I never would have taken skinny jeans or large belts seriously if I hadn't seen them on fellow Bombshells.

So let's share the inspiration with one another - what do you think? If you'd like to share your personal style with us, send me an email at BombshellBeautyBlog@gmail.com. Be prepared to send me at least two photos of you in all your glory, answer a few questions, then see yourself right here! It'll be fun.

Win a Pair of Jeans from Silhouette

Between now and November 30th, you can enter to win a pair of Blue Couture jeans from Silhouette. I mean, who couldn't use another pair of jeans? Especially cute, free ones?

Photo credit: Silhouettes.com

Beauty Moment - Dove

One of my favorite drugstore brands of beauty products is Dove. Their product line has evolved over the past few years but one thing has remained constant - Dove products do exactly what they promise and they smell wonderfully clean. Three of my current faves:

Frizz Control Therapy Conditioner* - this thick, ultra creamy conditioner staves off the winter frizzies brought on by extra dry air. The formula contains a smoothing serum that tames fly-away strands all day. The only downside? I look like a freak every time I'm caught sniffing my own hair; it smells that good!

Clinical Protection Deodorant - I've been using this clinical strength anti perspirant/deodorant for a couple of years because it keeps me dry. Bottom line, it works for me. I know, I know, underarm sweat isn't glamourous. Luckily, this formula is infused with Dove's signature 1/4 moisturizers which ups the appeal. Also appealing, it doesn't contain aluminum chloride or alchohol which can irritate the skin under your arms.

Go Fresh Energizing Body Mist* - this light, citrusy spray has earned a permanent spot in my gym bag. A couple spritzes of the grapefruit & lemongrass scent re-energizes me, even after a challenging workout.

I feel good about buying Dove products because of their quality and the company's stand on using their influence in the beauty industry to build the self esteem of young girls and women. Their web site is chock full of interesting articles and great information on this topic.

Real Life Bombshell: Gabourey Sidibe

Gabourey Sidibe has been making the rounds in Hollywood ever since her incredible performance in the movie Precious started generating buzz.  I get a kick out of reading articles written about Gabby because it’s obvious the media doesn’t really know how to approach her.  They all seem to think that Gabby must really relate to her character, Precious, just because they’re both overweight; that she got this role and then became worthwhile.

Gabby doesn’t waste any time dispelling those two pieces of ridiculousness.  She doesn’t let Hollywood or anyone else take credit for her happiness, her self-esteem, or her very being.  Here’s what she says in a piece in New York Magazine:“They try to paint this picture that I was this downtrodden, ugly girl who was unpopular in school and in life, and then I got this role and now I’m awesome.  But the truth is that I’ve been awesome, and then I got this role.”

I think a lot of people have a hard time believing that plus size women feel good about themselves and enjoy fulfilling lives.  But it’s true.  I know I’m awesome, I believe you’re awesome.  And I love the fact that this Bombshell is out there, opening eyes left and right.

Photo credit: NYmag.com

Beauty Moment - L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Deep Set Wrinkle Repair 24 HR Eye Duo

As I've mentioned, I'm marching toward my 30th birthday this February and have made some changes in my skincare to ensure everything goes smoothly (ha). The delicate, very thin skin around the eyes shows the earliest signs of aging so it makes sense to pay special attention to that area. For the past month, I've been using L'Oreal's Revitalift Deep Set Wrinkle Repair 24 HR Eye Duo* and am sold on the dual benefits of this product.

The double-ended tube of cream contains a day formula with SPF 15, and a night formula with Pro-Retinal A. This potent anti-aging ingredient helps repair existing wrinkles and repel the development of them down the line. Both formulas feel light, though creamy to the touch. The day cream absorbs quickly and serves as a great foundation for my concealer.

I don't have deep wrinkles yet, but I've noticed an improvement in the elasticity of the skin under my eyes. It bounces back when I apply concealer or poke around at it. And I wake up with less puffiness and darkness than before I started using the duo. The cost of a good eye cream can be absolutely astronomical - the final selling point, after performance, for me on this product is the price: less than $20.

Photo credit: Drugstore.com

Slip into a Shrug

Fashion-wise, the popularity of the shrug comes and goes - some seasons it's easier to find in the stores than during others. However, from a style standpoint a shrug is a nice alternative to a blazer or full-on cardigan. This versatile layer performs many functions: adding depth and layer to an otherwise "blah" outfit; adding a little arm coverage to sleeveless or strapless tops; transforming your wardrobe staples into something new and different.

Typically defined as a cropped sweater, the shrug can fall anywhere from the top of your rib cage to your belly button. To avoid looking stumpy pair the shrug with elongating pieces. This could include a long tee, jeans and flats; or a knee-length dress and boots.

One last thing -(I'm just going to say it). Lots of women are still wearing the shrug that ties right underneath the bust.



This particular look is a bit dated. If you have one of these in your closet, consider retiring it for a while and replacing it with a more sophisticated version.

You can use the unique proportions of a shrug to play up your own. If you have a small bust, choose one with embellishment or ruffles like this one from B and Lu:



For Bombshells with large busts or broad shoulders, consider this one:



Alloy's cozy version features a shawl neckline which provides structure to the flowey piece. That flowiness and the way the front of the shrug tapers back at the hip are exactly right for a large bust. Available up to 3XL.

Photo credits: Shopageless.com; BandLu.com; Alloy.com

I’ve heard from many of you that your favorite product reviews are those that recreate spa-like results in your own bathroom. You’ve told me you like them because of the convenience and affordability, and also because the thought of going to an actual spa is really intimidating.

Going into a public place, taking off your clothes and paying a stranger to touch your skin is intimidating to a lot of women, no matter their size. But there are a few elements to the experience that are plus-size specific.

• Will the robe fit me?

• Is the equipment sturdy, or am I going to go flying off the massage table as it collapses beneath me?

• Am I supposed to hang out naked in a steam room with a bunch of hard bodied women, sipping cucumber water?

• Will the technician who performs my treatment act weird about touching my curves?

I completely agree that it’s convenient to slap on a hydrating mask in your bathroom, in between brushing your teeth and shaving your legs. But it doesn’t begin to compare to putting yourself in the hands of a professional, getting away from all the sounds and distractions of home, and letting someone else take care of you for an hour.

To get a professional opinion on how a Bombshell can make the spa experience more serene than anxious, I chatted with Mitchell Wherley, CEO and owner of Spalon Montage – one of the Twin Cities’ premier spas. The first thing he told me? “Our mission at Spalon Montage is to embrace diversity.”

This includes clients of all shapes and sizes. To that end, Spalon Montage educates its staff on how to interact with diverse clients. For plus size clientele, that means ensuring they have robes on hand that will fit. Their treatment rooms and equipment are all built to accommodate any person.

Another stressor at the spa is not knowing what you’re supposed to do once you get there – should you take off your clothes and slip into the robe now? Or should you wait for someone to give you directions?

“We assume every client is brand new to any treatment,” Mitchell said. “We always explain what’s going to happen next, from the concierge who greets you in the lobby to the treatment specialist who works with you.”

If you’re new to spa treatments, Mitchell suggests booking one that doesn’t require you to remove much (if any) clothing. A pedicure or facial are both good options – a facial in particular is relaxing and beneficial. If you’d like to dip your toes into the world of massage, see if your spa offers a specialty treatment like Spalon Montage’s Thai Yoga massage.*

Unlike traditional massage, in which you’d remove most of (or all) your clothing before being rubbed with oils and lotions, Thai Yoga massage requires you to wear your own yoga clothes while being stretched by a therapist. In Spalon Montage’s case, that therapist is the very sweet, extremely knowledgable Kathryn – completely unintimidating.

I received the most invigorating massage and a boatload of general yoga knowledge from her during our 60-minute session. The experience was calming and relaxing; Kathryn was able to stretch my body more deeply than I ever could on my own. She used a series of yoga moves and deep tissue massage, using her own body weight and mine for leverage. The best part? I was able to lay back on a warm, cushy floor mat in a gorgeous, dimly lit room and just enjoy the entire process.

At the end of the massage, I sprang up with energy coursing through my body. Traditional massage typically leaves me lethargic and ready for a nap (and a shower to get all those oils off) – a great experience in its own way. But the next time I need to re-center and gather some energy, I’m going for the Thai Yoga massage.

By all means, keep enjoying all the products available for at-home use. But treat yourself to a true spa experience, too! Here are three tips that might ease your anxiety as you look forward to that treatment:

1. Get to know the spa. Book a non-threatening treatment, like a pedicure or facial, your first go-around so you can get a feel for the place.

2. Ask questions. Does this treatment require any nudity? Do you have robes in 3X?

3. Go with your gut. If you feel anything less than completely welcomed and comfortable, cancel the appointment. Even if you’re already at the spa.

If you’re in the Twin Cities and would like more information on the Thai Yoga massage, call Spalon Montage at 952-915-2900. Also, take advantage of a series of free classes called Beautiful U. Upcoming sessions include Essential Skincare for Adults, Styling Tips, Techniques and Tools, and Holiday Style.

Glamour Magazine's Best Party Dresses

The December issue of Glamour features an article on the best party dresses by body type. Their picks for plus size party-goers are:



Ombre satin dress by Candlelight and Champagne, sizes 12-28 for $69.99. The surplice bodice provides enough coverage to support a full bra with comfortable straps. And the ombre fade of dark brown down to light beige draws the eye down, creating the illusion of height. Pair the dress with sparkly sandals or nude heels to elongate your legs.



Alex Marie "Claudia" dress, sizes 14-28 for $139. This winter-white sheath reminds me of the dress Michelle Obama recently wore to an event at the White House. Customize the look of this dress by adding a belt to further define the waist.



David Meister's purple matte jersey dress hugs your curves in all the right ways. Don't be afraid to wear a clingy dress - if you need some added confidence to pull of this sexy look, layer a pair of Spanx underneath and pile on the accessories over top. I'm envisioning a chunky necklace and an armful of bracelets.



And last, but not least, I think this Kiyonna faux-wrap dress is the same one shown in the magazine. I love the cascading ruffle detail!

Read the entire article in the December 2009 issue of Glamour magazine. It's on page 138.

Photo credits: DavidMeister.com; Kiyonna.com; OneStopPlus.com; Dillards.com

Sweet Treats from Sephora

Have you received your Sephora winter magalog? Mine was sitting on the kitchen counter this evening when I came home, and I excitedly snatched it up and flipped through the whole thing before even acknowledging my husband. It's ok - he gets it. And by it, I mean Sephora. This is their winter campaign:



Seriously whackadoo. There is no way in hell that I'm going to feel inspired by page after page of models wearing pounds of the craziest makeup caked on their pretty faces. I believe in color. And glitter. But this? Please. Show me a few pictures where the makeup is so gorgeous, so wearable that I race to my makeup stash and try to recreate it. Not happening this season. BUT - at least the gift sets and actual products that Sephora is peddling are fantastic and exciting.



Lorac Double Booked Full Face Collection, a $350 value for just $55. This set contains 16 eye shadows, 2 blushes, a bronzer, a highlighter, 2 lip glosses, a lip liner and a dual-ended brush.



Sephora Frangrance Sampler for Her (also available For Him), $75. Includes samples of 7 different perfumes PLUS a voucher for one full size bottle of whichever sample you like best. This is such an amazing gift.



Bare Escentuals junkies are going to be crazy for the bareMinerals Happiness Collection. This $137 value, selling for a mere $54, contains Glee all over face color, 2 eye colors, a liner shadow, mascara, lipgloss, and the requisite brushes.

Photo credit: Sephora.com

How cute is this sweater?



It would look amazing with a pencil skirt, tights and boots. I love a little sparkle by the face. Ok, I love a little sparkle period. But especially near the face.

Liz Claiborne Sequin Fair Isle Sweater, up to size 3X, $109.

Trend Translation - Lucky Girl

One of my favorite sources for style inspiration is Lucky magazine and their online counterpart, Luckymag.com. My favorite spot to lurk? The Fashion Copycat page. This look strikes me as extremely cool in a thoughtful, but not overly-thought-out way: This look was ubiquitous across fashion magazines and on city streets all spring and summer - the laid back jeans, crew neck tee shirt, slouchy vest and sandals. With a few seasonal updates, it's an aesthetic that can still look fresh well into the winter as well. Here's my fashion copycat, using pieces designed for Bombshells.

First thing's first: jeans. Check your closet. Grab a pair that's more fitted than flared. Fitted jeans will keep the overall look from being sloppy.



A simple, gray cotton turtleneck is the perfect streamlined bottom layer for this chic style. Old Navy's Lightweight Turtleneck is a classic. (Bonus - you can layer this thin turtleneck under short sleeve dresses, too!)



This winter-weight tweed vest mimics the original inspiration's menswear vibe. Worn open, it'll evoke the same freestyle sense of chic; worn closed, it'll cinch your waist and highlight curves. Either way, it's a winner.



The purple tote bag really pops next to this outfit's neutrals. I love the sleek lines of this Lucky Brand Pleats of Love bag in Ultraviolet.



Ground the outfit in a pair of dark brown booties - their safari meets modern biker look is a great seasonal translation of the copycat girl's dark brown strappy sandals.

Photo credit: Lee.com; OldNavy.com; Avenue.com; Zappos.com; Nordstrom.com