Winter is a great month to experiment with products that are designed for Summer. Like, Clarins Brightening Body Veil with SPF 20. Although I'm not exposing myself to the sun of winter, it's still great to use this product because of the thickness that the SPF provides. I have to admit that I'm not particularly fond of this as much as the Clarins Moisture Rich Body Lotion (I know they offer two different results ... but still!), which thickness comes from the Shea Butter. For $40.00 a bottle, I would have expected more remarkable results.  Period.

Of all the blush I use by CHANEL, my favorite is the Joues Contraste. It combines both glamour and softness with sophistication that allows me to shape my face by emphasizing contours. I really like that it doesn't mat up or become cake-y and it stays on all day, even while working out. It leaves my cheek bones well defined, with a hint of sparkle and class. From my recent trip to the CHANEL counter, the beauty advisor gave me tips on how to highlight my face by using three different blushes. Right now I use Fantasia as my base colour, then I highlight the very top part of my cheekbones with Narcisse for glammed definition, and then I top my whole cheek area with Be-Bop (Irréelle Blush), for that perfect touch of shimmer. Result: STUNNING! ( Each blush is only $42.00!)  A deal no girl can resist!

Ireceived this facial cleanser as a gift from Carmen while I was in Maui for a few days. She knows that my favorite color is pink, so whenever she runs upon anything that is cute, and of course pink, and is sure that I will like it, she snags it and sends it to me, no matter where I am in the world- and even if I'm only there for a few days :-). What a great gift! It's so perfect to use with Lancôme's Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover that's already in my vanity cabinet! I love that this purifying foaming cleanser gives an unmistakable foam that really goes down deep and targets the dirt, oil and makeup, bringing all of the impurities to the surface to be washed away. It helps that my skin does look and feel clean without me having to wash a second time. I am happy with this product! Oh, and it's only $30.00 a bottle!

IRecently I decided to go on an all natural kick. You know, all 100% certified organic products and food. So, one day, while surfing the web for the newest line of organic products I stumbled upon natracare. I was blown away by the fact that there were actual organic feminine products! Clever, I mean, who would have thought? So, I researched the website: www.natracare.com (I printed the information below), and found out the most interesting facts about these special all cotton feminine hygiene must-haves, and most importantly, the major differences between natracare and the other feminine products I've always used. I was so intrigued by the information given that that very same day I ran out to Whole Foods and picked up a box of tampons and a pack of wipes to try out. I noticed a difference right away. The usual painful cramps that come with my cycle every month seemed to be far less achy and way more tolerable. I could actually go through my day without having to give into Midol or Tylenol. It's as if the tampon itself was more comfortable and less irritable. I assume that it is the bleach in regular tampons that makes the menstrual experience more painful. The wipes are terrific! Not only do they have enough moisture on them to wipe with ease, but they leave you with the fresh feeling of just washing with a body wash. Surprisingly, the wipes do not irritate or sting. It's all natural and odorless and convenient. I make sure to use them daily, even when I'm off my period, as a daily hygiene maintenance.  The packet of wipes is small enough to throw into my makeup bag or my purse to use whenever I'm in class, out dining, or need a quick wipe-up after a gym workout. I also like that natracare's non-applicator tampons are small enough to throw into my change purse, totally discreet! After only a half year of using just the tampons and wipes, I'm so satisfied with natracare that I recently purchased the pads for bedtime use, or the days that I'm just not in the tampon mood. The all natural pads provided a totally different period experience for me. I felt a lot cleaner. Not only did these products provide comfort, but they are actually healthy for the female body as well as the environment. Then and there I made a commitment to protect my body, therefore using only what is best for it.

If you're like me, too afraid to have the laser surgery done, then you must still be wearing contact lens. There are a lot of contact solutions that have left my eyes dry and irritated, and sometimes even burn my eyes leaving them red, bloodshot and itchy. The Opti-Free Replenish does none of those things. It's very gentle, cleansing and refreshing, even when I'm not wearing contacts and want to wash my eyes out after a sweaty day. Opti-Free is definitely my choice and has been for a very long time. Besides, at only $18.00, it's a no-brainer of a savings!

Ilove, love, love these gloves! They are an asset every Princess must have. Plus, they are really inexpensive (only $40.00). I was never really into H2O+ until I happened to scope these out in their display window at the mall. Out of curiosity I bought two pairs, and have used them every night since.     Every night after my bath, I use my Precision Body Excellence Nourishing & Rejuvenating Hand Creme by CHANEL ($131.00), and then cover my hands with my H2O+ moisture therapy gloves before falling asleep.  I've also tried the H2O+ Hand and Nail Cream, which works gloriously for like an overnight flight.  In the morning you will uncover to discover beautiful ballet hands!

Ihappened upon Lancôme' s mascara about 4 years ago through a friend of mine who works at a Lancôme counter at the Goldsmith's Department Store in Memphis. Believe it or not, she actually called me on the very same day that I'd either misplaced or lost the mascara that I was trying out for that month, which was L'Oréal Voluminous (Curved Brush) in Black. I was also in the market of rediscovering myself by going through a 'drugstore-only' phase, and totally not interested in any products from any makeup counters in the malls; so I honestly didn't even consider asking her for any advise.However, she gave it to me anyway. "Penna get with it! Everyone in the world knows that Lancôme makes the very best mascara!" I said to her, "Whatever!" and we both let out the biggest laugh. Actually, her comment was all it took because I suddenly found myself heading to Neiman Marcus to the Lancôme counter, and after spending about 20 minutes asking every question imaginable, I finally left with a tube of Definicils High Definition Mascara Waterproof Black/Noir. Result: Fantastic! I used Lancôme's mascara non-stop for two more years! Another one of Lancôme' s mascara that became my favorite is Hypnôse.

Because of the rosy aromatic scent, I love to apply this toner whenever I have early morning projects and have to rise before the sun does. The enticing scent adds a jolt of exhilaration and spark of excitement to get me out of bed and into my morning regimen. Each experience of using this toner is like finding a new hobby, because I find so many different areas of my body to apply it. Whenever I'm in a hurry and/or cannot decide on the perfect fragrance of the day, I simply grab my Chanel alcohol-free soothing toner, sprinkle a bit onto my finger tips, and dab around the back of my ears. It gives off a refreshingly clean Princess smell that is simply irresistible! And, of course, because the toner is pink, it goes under my list of Princess Must-Haves. I never forget to take it along with me to "re-splash" and refresh throughout my day. Besides, for only $45.00 a bottle, no girl should ever pass up the color pink!

After using the Dermalogica body wash I noticed that my skin not only smells fresher but looks brighter and younger as well. This body wash provides me with a boost of a fresh start on my mornings because of the showery aroma and the "pick-me-up" vibrancy of it. I especially like taking this product along with me whenever I'm having a sleep over party with my friends. My friends and I like to brag about the latest products that we've personally snagged whenever we are together, and love to compare notes. This is one of my latest and favorites that I like to share with them.  Plus, at only $39.00 a bottle, why wouldn't I want to share?!

One other thing I like about the Dermalogica is that it does not have any perfumes or alcohol added to enrich the natural fragrance. Added perfumes and alcohol can be harsh on the skin, therefore damaging. I purchased a large bottle in August and I still have a half bottle left. It really lasts!

I went to New York earlier this month with a guy friend of mine. While we were there, I dropped into Lord & Taylor to pick up Hypnôse by Lancôme- because I loved the results I'd previously received from Lancôme's Définicils. Anyway, Colin and I only stayed a week, but what a week it was! I received compliments on my lashes non-stop! Everyone would stop me to ask if I had eyelash enhancement, or eyelash extensions, or if I was wearing false lashes. I have never received so many compliments on my lashes in my life!  $24.00 a tube is definitely worth the compliments...

Since I've been on this whole all-organic or nothing kick I've purchased more organic products than I ever have. Yes, even toothpaste. I do like that this product is all natural and earth friendly- (and that it's made in Italy!) But, aside from that, I've seen real results. Every morning I drink a cup of organic tea; and because of that I experience stains at times. This product is excellent for removing any unwanted discolorations on my teeth. And, it's totally a great buy (only $5)!

Iam an 'All Things CHANEL' girl (you know that already!), so naturally I cannot live without any of my CHANEL nail lacquers. Of course I have every shade (sure, for only $20.00 a bottle!)- but the one I want to rave about right now is Splendeur- which I purchased last year at Nordstrom- but still rockin' this year. It's a catch between that 80's rock star Fuchsia (with a metallic undertone), and OHG (Old Hollywood Glam) Hot Pink. I love this colour! It's that daring in-your-face colour that seems to make mesmerizing statements, even at the most outlandish of events. I especially love to pair this polish with my MAC Cranberry Lip Pencil ($13), and CHANEL Crème Gloss Lumière in Madeleine ($32), which I rock out in all the hottest and most glamorous parties this Holiday Season.

B ecause I attend about 20 hours a week in dance and fitness classes, buying this machine for my achy feet was a no-brain-er. Along with it, I picked up Epsom Salts and a few magazines to read while I do my nightly ceremonial foot soaks. First, I grab myself an extra-large pillow from my couch to support my head and back. Second, I empty a few drops of Epsom salts into the dry tub. Third, I pour a large pitcher of hot water inside the bath and then switch it on. Fourth, I gently lower my feet into the tub and then relax. Fifth, I enjoy!

This foot-bubbler is safe, easy to carry and use, and easy to clean; and because it is small and light weight it can easily be stored underneath a sink, or in a hallway closet or cabinet. Lately, I've been using my foot-bubbler to give myself at-home pedicures, so I house mine in my personal pedicure area next to my bathroom. This is another product that I've added to my "quick fix" list because it is so inexpensive (only $19.99!) and convenient, and way less time consuming than going to an actual salon. See my Pedicure Safety Update article in Health!

I was feeling a bit down and drained today, and needed a pick me up before I went to sewing class -- (yes, Princesses, I do take sewing classes- go figure!:-). Anyway, I stopped into Neiman Marcus (one of my favorite places to shop!) for the new AQUALUMIÈRE GLOSS High-Shine Sheer Concentrate by- non other than da best of da best ... CHANEL. I'd been wishing after this gloss ever since I received a sample of it from my last beauty visit to the counter. After about an hour I decided on NEW IRONIC TONIC. Why? Because not only does it put the provocative in pretty with a combination of bold shine and stunning colour, but it also redefines the look of gloss. I'm a total fan of lipgloss, and this innovative piece of art is ultra-lightweight in feel- and brushes on for sheer coverage with maximum brilliance. Huh, you can't beat that for only $26.00 a gloss!

Awesome, awesome, awesome! I have a lot of photo and video shoots that leave me completely drained of energy. But what's worse is by the end of the day my eyes look totally drained as well. This product, however, is a life saver! Not only does it give extreme hydration but it seems to take years off my delicate eye area. It has special ingredients that give my eyes a younger, lifted and brighter appearance by de-emphasizing puffiness and the look of dark circles.  I'm now able to go out without concealer.  It's a steep price ($78.00), but I've used eye creams that cost twice as much and did not receive the same benefits.  Also, I've already invested their newest creme (Re-Nutriv Ultimate Youth, $100.00).  It's always worth it!  I'll remember to let you know how the newest creme works out!

Ultra Shiny Lip Gloss

This is a must have for me if I want to glam up for a late afternoon lunch date. The great thing about this lip gloss is that it adds a faint hint of glimmer that's never overbearing and is totally appropriate for day (despite the name!). If my date and I decide to grab a movie later in the evening, I sometimes pair my gloss with a matte berry lipstick, like Apocalypse by Urban Decay. What I've noticed is that layering my lipstick underneath helps the gloss to stay on much longer, even while I'm eating; and it also helps to bring out the color and a more brilliant shine in the gloss. Instead of calling my lips "sparkling night", I renamed them "sparkling day" because I become pretty lucky during the day. Ya know what I mean :-)

The result: The sexiest most irresistibly kissable lips ever! Muah!

---Penna

An Absolute Must-Have!
This is a favorite of mine to use whenever I'm wearing ultra-short shorts or showing all leg in smoking hot miniskirts. This product gives off a very golden glow, leaving my skin bronzed and highlighted. Usually the products that produce a lot of shimmer don't really hydrate as well, but this one not only gives continuous hydration to thirsty skin but leaves a satiny shiny look and feel that's uber sexy. For only $35.00 a tube, it is truly the 'in' product for any sizzling summer shindig or any fun summer night out on the town.

But, I like to use my Body Performance during the Fall and Winter months to maintain a healthy and bronzy 'after-summer' glow!

---Penna

T his is actually one of the many newest products in my bathroom. Lately I noticed that I've been breaking out more frequently than usual, and after remembering that my cosmetics are brand new and not yet ready to be replaced, I figured I should try a new facial cleanser. So, I called up one of my girlfriends and we both decided to go on the prowl for the latest buzzed about facial cleansing products. Besides, that day I needed an excuse to get away from my long hours of working. Of the many new "girly" products we tried once we got to her place after the mall, my favorite happened to be the Dior Self-Foaming Cleanser.   I love it for two reasons: (1) The foam is really thin and reacts differently depending on whether it is applied to wet or to dry skin. I usually wear really sheer and lightly applied makeup during the day, and in removing the makeup I noticed that the foam works best when I first wet my face. The foam becomes diluted and smoother, almost completely sheer and effortless to remove the small traces of makeup. On my "drama" days, I love to just glam it up! I go all out by putting on foundation, covering with pressed powder, using about 4 or 5 different colors of eye shadows, layers of mascara, glossy lips, blush that pops, etc. I noticed that when I apply the foam to my still made up -but dry- face, it creates a thicker foamed texture that really penetrates deeper into my skin and does a really good job of removing the extra makeup. I would say that it's better to apply the foam dry to thicker makeup. (2) It rinses off quickly and easily, so it's great to use whenever I'm not feeling up to my usual hour and a half long pampering time.

This is one of my newest and favorite products that I use daily, either over my body serum or alone. It's definitely the last beauty product I apply to my body after the shower and before my Perfume of The Day. This rich creme milk body lotion has a slight fragrance that compliments any perfume that I wear. When applying the creme, it's effortless, as it glides on evenly, with such smoothness and creamy thickness that feels like silk. As with every YSL product, the packaging is always spectacular, and the easy to squeeze tube feels like silk itself! Because it is an easy squeeze tube with a secure flip fastened top, I easily throw it in my bag for touch ups throughout the day, especially on really cold days when my skin is the driest.

I find the Total Fitness great for after leaving the gym because it adds to the overall tone of my body and gives it the extra firming boost that my skin needs. It works best for me after exfoliating my body and then having a really close shave, being careful to hit every spot, to ensure that there are no unwanted hairs sticking up through the creme.

I especially love to apply the Total Fitness when I'm going out with my girlfriends. It leaves my skin so smooth, shiny and brilliantly sheer as if my body is made of silk. My friends always compliment me on how I uniquely pair my body moisturizers with the perfect outfit, shoes and accessories. I especially love complimenting this moisturizer with Juicy Couture Body Milk Mist and washing my face with Dior Cleansing Milk.  At only $60 a tube, this YSL product is a must!

I usually go to my facial therapist twice a month, precisely for her marvelous clay masks.  That was until I discovered Lancôme's Purifying Mineral Mask.  Whenever I use it at home I feel no different than being pampered in her salon.  And just as she does, I love to cake it on really thick to insure that its job will be well done.  On the weekends and sometimes when I want to relax with the mask, I will cut two cool cucumber slices and place them over my eyes while I nap until the mask dries.    Using refrigerated cucumbers helps to eliminate dark under eye circles and reduces the appearance of looking tired, so I'm actually getting two at-home treatments at once.

This product definitely works for me in that it really goes deep to pull up the blackheads that are deeply embedded into my pores and brings them to the surface by the time I'm ready to wash away the mask.  I also notice that it reduces the size of my pores.  This is another one of my "quick fixes" whenever I'm in a hurry and cannot make it to my regular two hour facial appointments, or if I'm wanting to save.  It's only $28.00 a tube!

Although this product has specific age recommended uses, I decided to try it anyway to know what fabulous products I should be looking forward to in the future. The Renew-Plus Body Serum is tremendous in the way that it glides across the skin in a thin layer of seemingly pure nothingness. It is so incredibly lightweight that it appears to be "not there". And, because it absorbs so easily and quickly into the skin without leaving a trace, it is my new "quick fix" for every single day to day stress situation imaginable.

Whenever I'm out and feeling a bit tired or run down from running errands, I just pull out the body serum, squirt a tiny bit onto the palm of my hand, place my palm to my nose and take in a gentle whiff. Wow! To just take in the smell of the cool, clean, soft and sheer rosy aroma, allowing that breath of delicate fresh air to restart my day. Because this product is $60 I love that it takes only one squirt to cover one entire body part, so I do always remember to use it sparingly.