Do you ever wish you could just drop everything, hand over your responsibilities to someone trustworthy and take a long, relaxing trip to some idyllic hidden getaway?
Givenchy knows what it’s like; one of the things they do well is create collections that take the heart and mind on a journey.
When I look at the evocative packaging and dynamic colors of their summer 2010 collection, I feel like today’s rotten weather and my ever-present to-do list are miles and miles away.
Fleur de Frangipanier Powder in Island Tan
The blues, bronzes, pinks and peaches transport me to a tropical resort, where I’m lounging lazily beside the pool, reading some book (probably teen lit) under a stand of palm trees rustling overhead. Of course, in this fantasy I’m rocking killer abs in a Burberry bikini, and Ryan Reynolds just offered to buy me a margarita, but that’s another story for another time. 😉
Le Prisme Mono in Island Lagoon Eyeshadow
The seven-piece collection for lips, eyes and cheeks lives up to Givenchy’s reputation for eye-catching limited edition packaging. Check out the flower in the Fleur de Frangipanier Powder and the delicate floral designs on the compacts… I DIE!!
Pop Gloss Crystal SUN in Island Guava
This week, I’ve been wearing four of the items from the release. Here’s a quick look:
Packaging for Fleur de Frangipanier in Island Tan
Fleur de Frangipanier in Island Tan ($45): I think this powder blush/bronzer looks just as gorgeous on the cheeks as it looks in the package. I’ve been swirling a big fluffy brush in the pan to mix the bronze, peach and brown colors together for a sheer peach blush with a matte finish; I see this playing well with products in teal, coral, pink, bronze and green. I think it makes my cheeks look like they’ve been kissed by the sun! 🙂 Makeup and Beauty Blog Rating: A
Packaging for Island Lagoon Eyeshadow
Le Prisme Mono in Island Lagoon ($29): If you’re looking for a subtle blue eyeshadow, consider adding this ocean-inspired powder shadow to your makeup bag. It comes with three shades of blue and a hint of silver together in one pan. Mixed, they create a very light wash of silvery turquoise blue. My favorite way to wear it? As a sheer wash on the lids with a shimmery brown in the crease. Makeup and Beauty Blog Rating: B+
From left: Island Tan, Island Lagoon, Island Guava, Water Black
Pop Gloss Crystal SUN in Island Guava ($25): I’m a HUGE fan of the Pop Gloss Crystals, so I was fully prepared to fall hard for this peachy bronze gloss with shimmer. Like the Pop Glosses I’ve worn in the past, Island Guava’s non-sticky, thin texture and generous pigment are strong points, but I find the baby powder scent a little too strong, and I think it tastes kinda like plastic. LOVE the color, though. Makeup and Beauty Blog Rating: B-
Wearing Island Lagoon Eyeshadow and Water Black Mascara on eyes, Island Tan on cheeks and Island Guava on lips
Phenomen Eyes Waterproof in Water Black ($29): The original Phenomen Eyes smears like c r a z y on my lower lash line, but I’m happy to report that this waterproof version’s much better. It lasts a solid 12 hours without any smudging or flaking. Givenchy’s signature spikey mascara ball applies plenty of product, creating a very full, thick look at the roots, but I would have liked to see more lengthening and stronger curl hold. That, and my lashes felt crispy and heavy after two coats. Makeup and Beauty Blog Rating: B-
Of course, because these say Givenchy on the outside, pocketbooks everywhere won’t be happy at all about the prices. Be warned: the pieces range from $29-45 (available at Sephora next month).
So what do ya think? Do any of these colors catch your eye? The Fleur De Frangipanier powder stands out the most to me so far, with the Island Lagoon eyeshadow a close second.
Last night’s Glee
Did you catch Glee last night? I don’t want to ruffle any feathers, but I was a little disappointed. The Madonna theme could’ve been epic! Unforgettable! — like that musical Buffy the Vampire episode, but am I the only one who felt like the writers were reaching, like the story took a backseat to the songs?
Granted, it is a musical TV show… 🙂
There were some moments I really liked. That Cheerios routine with the stilts and the Like a Virgin montage killed it, and I LOVED the version of What It Feels Like For a Girl the guys did. That was pretty neat.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
Sarah says
I was underwhelmed by the music. I’m not a HUGE Madonna fan though, so I dont know if that made a difference?
But how awesome was 4 minutes?! Mercedes and Kurt totally rocked that song!
Karen says
Yes they did! I was so glad to hear them sing an entire song… as much as I love Rachel’s voice, I’d like to hear other people do some songs too, especially Artie and Mercedes.
Instant Karma (formerly L) says
AMEN, SISTER. Maybe it’s because I spent too much time doing musical theater in high school, but I’m getting a little tired of Rachel singing everything. I love Artie and Mercedes’ voices!
Sarah says
I loved hearing other people sing, but I think as far as whether I play it later on my iPod, I would have preferred fewer people sing on Like a Prayer – I understand it was the grand finale song, but I’m not sure I’m a huge fan of cast songs…
Karen says
Oh, that’s cool! What shows did you do? I played in the pit for Chorus Line, Damn Yankees and West Side Story, and a few years ago was in West Side as “misc. Shark girl #4” LOLOL.
Instant Karma (formerly L) says
I was also in Damn Yankees! I went to an all girls school, and since I’m 5’11” (well, was 5’9″ my freshman year), I got a role as one of the baseball players. I was also in Kiss Me Kate. I mostly did music stuff outside of school though — I was always more into (and still am!) classical vocal stuff than musical theater. Musical theater is really fun, though!
LOL “Misc. Shark girl.” I know how that is!. I actually got a name in Damn Yankees (I still have a t-shirt from it so I remember that I was Henry) but no one really cared because I wasn’t Joe, lol.
Katherine @ Lipgloss and Spandex says
I agree! I know I already replied on twitter, but to elaborate: There were absolutely awesome moments–I also liked the two song/dance routines you mentioned, and Four Minutes with Kurt and Meredith was great too. But the story line over the past few episodes has gotten weak. The Jesse situation? Why Sue would suddenly just bare her soul to Kurt and Meredith? I know it’s a musical and silly but I got kind of nervous about the future of Glee…
.-= Katherine @ Lipgloss and Spandex’s last blog post… Review: Nicole Paxson powder compact =-.
Karen says
All sorts of silliness was going on. Wasn’t it weird how they were blasting Madonna in the hallways 24/7? I know the show is known for being quirky, but that was full on out of left field.
Catherine says
Oooh, the bronzer and gloss look really pretty! The shadow’s a little disappointing for as much as it costs though…
.-= Catherine’s last blog post… Fake Mascara from eBay =/ =-.
Karen says
The bronzer rocks. 🙂 I hope you try it when it comes to Sephora!
Nancy says
you too? i thought i was the only was disappointed with the Glee, and didn’t want anyone to know it…was expecting soo much more. p.s. love that beautiful island tan pan…
Karen says
I think something must’ve happened with the writers… or maybe they’re shifting the focus from the story to the music. I hope they get back on track soon!
Rachel says
I watched it! Though I’m not a regular Glee watcher, I used to LOVE Madonna (child of the 80s) so I had to watch it. It was cute, but I agree the story took a backseat. I LOVED Like a Prayer at the end. Amazing.
Karen says
I listened to Madge 24/7 in the 80s. What’s your favorite Madonna song?
Rachel says
For sure Like a Prayer, hence LOVING it on Glee. I also LOVED Papa Don’t Preach, but looking back now, I had no idea what the song was actually about.
Do you like the *new* Madonna?
Elaine says
Karen you look FABULOUS in that picture! the hair+ makeup is awesome for summer – and i liked glee last night mostly because I love Madonna. My fav songs were “What it feels like for a girl” and “Like a Prayer” (two of my favorite songs outside the show as well!)
Karen says
Oooh, I loooooved What It Feels Like For a Girl. It’s one of my all-time Madge faves! What are y our favorite Madonna songs? A few of mine are (in no particular order):
— Borderline
— Bedtime Story
— Deeper and Deeper
— Music
— Love Song
— Get Into the Groove
— Get Together
marisol says
onhoyoudidnt mention Buffy. That was an awesome episode in an amazing show. I miss Buffy… and Angel.
Have you been downloading the music from the show? I have and really been enjoying it.
Hopefully the Lady gaga one will be amazing.
.-= marisol’s last blog post… Currently loving… =-.
Karen says
Did you know that they had a Buffy singalong in SF to that ep? I am still kicking myself for not going.
I’ve been listening to various cuts on youtube all day and am about to download a few songs right now, hee!
heyhey says
Did you hear a rumor of a 2nd all-Madonna episode? Uh, No Plz.
I’ve been down with Madonna since “Burning Up” (Lol, that video. Writhing! In the street!), but the episode was too song heavy, and story light. The best musicals use the music to support the story, and there were moments yesterday that felt like the reverse. Hopefully next ep we’ll get more story … and more depth from the secondary characters (Santana and Brit FTW!).
Thanks for posting “What It’s Like For a Girl” . Surprised how male singers shift the dynamic. Almost feels like John Mayers “Daughters”: refreshing empathy you can head-nod to.
Karen says
Seriously. I’ve been hooked since the Lucky Star video. Don’t laugh, but one of my life goals was to see Madge in concert (done… Vegas, baby!!).
Isn’t that version of What It’s Like beautiful? I love how rich it sounds.
heyhey says
“I love how rich it sounds.” No disrepect to Madge, but it was nice to hear her songs interpretted by people with stronger voices. The harmonizing was a great addition.
Okay, somewhat related: Glee’s “Brittany” backup dancing for Beyonce.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElWylvVrGt8
Karen says
Wow! She looks freaking great. I always knew she was a strong dancer, but here you can see her really working it.
I have something else for you! Here’s the a demo version of Madonna’s Burning Up. It’s very different from the one released on the album (much more New Order-y):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgiTtkvFFtc
heyhey says
Oh. Wow. I can see what you mean about New Order. Just changes the whole tone of the song. Who’s that gothy/punk girl seething in the corner? Madonna!
Aparnaa says
Um, is it wrong I almost like the eyeshadows in the compacts more than on the skin? They look like modern art!
Karen says
It’s so beautiful to look at, but yeah, this one is for the gals who love sheer stuff.
Emily says
Amen about Glee Karen! I was so disappointed by all the storyline overshadowing the music.
Karen says
I think the story and the witty dialogue were some of the strongest things the show had to offer. I really hope they get back on track soon!
Karen B says
I’m such a sucker for packaging and Givenchy always hits the right spots. Can you also make the blue of the eyeshado mono pop? Or is it too sheer?
Karen says
You can… you just have to spend a lot of time layering, or you need to pop something like MAC Cream Colour Base in Pearl beneath it to bring the color out.
Rica says
I’m a huge Glee too… I don’t think the story line was too weak last night, I mean, I think they tried to elaborate that in the songs. Although I do feel that there are things that need to be explain first before putting out this Madonna episode. Like the Finn-Quin-Puck situation, and how about Emma-Will-Terry? There are so many things that need to deal with before Madonna. And this episode doesn’t even touch on those things. I mean there’s Emma and Will, but how about Terry? Anyway, I’m looking forward to future Glee episodes though.
.-= Rica’s last blog post… Tag: My Favourite Things =-.
Karen says
Me too. I do hope they spend more time on character development in the next few episodes.
Instant Karma (formerly L) says
AHHH GLEE. I totally agree about the high points. The stilts were seriously impressive. I just kept yelling “HOLY CRAP!” at the television over and over again as it went on. “Like a Virgin” was great, and I love Mr. Schue and so I’ve been watching it over and over today, haha http://vimeo.com/11123596
It’s possible, though, that “What It Feels Like For a Girl” was my favorite. I’m always up for Artie and Puck (Artie especially — his voice is incredible) singing, and they sounded great.
Okay, I also was shrieking with laughter at the brochures in Emma’s office.
RADON: THE SILENT KILLER
Proper Wiping: Easy as 1-2-3
Help! I’m in love with my stepdad!
I’m still breastfeeding, but how old is too old?
And, in closing…
“I just lost my train of thought because you have so much margarine in your hair.”
and
“When I pulled my hamstring, I went to a misogynist.”
Karen says
I love Artie’s voice. They definitely need to give him more solos, STAT.
And LOL re the brochures! I only caught the stepdad one.
Kim says
The colors look really nice and subtly shimmery on you! Does anyone else think that the shadow in the compact looks like the radar map of a weather forecast though? Hopefully it’s predicting sunny skies.
Karen says
LOL! It does! Or maybe an ocean map?
Scientific Housewife says
I liked the Glee episode but I agree, it could have been better!
Karen says
I’m still keeping my fingers crossed. Hopefully the story will be stronger next week!
NINA says
The thing I liked best about this week’s Glee was that other members of Glee got to sing – Kurt and Mercedes killed 4 minutes. It was awesome! Artie – he needs to sing MORE. Hes got an awesome, soulful, sweet voice. Santana – the girl can sing!!!
The oneliners were good, as always. and I kinda liked that part where people walking in the halls were in Madonna looks – thought that was a cute homage to Madge.
The only Givenchy product ive owned is a lipstick from 2 years back that I snagged from my cousin. I liked it but I wasnt really into lippies back then. This collection looks pretty … in the pan! The prices make me have 2nd and 3rd thoughts.
Karen says
I liked that hallway scene too! It made me realize how many times the woman has re-invented herself. 🙂
gio says
The packaging and flower patterns look gorgeous but I’m afraid I’m not feeling the colors, they’re too subtle for me. The eyeshadow is the most disappointing one, it looks so sheer! But the colors look beautiful on you!
.-= gio’s last blog post… How do you feel about excessive packaging? =-.
Karen says
Thanks Gio. I know you love your brights!
Stef says
Oh, I loved The Power of Madonna! I kind of wish they didn’t show the Vogue video last week though. It would have been a bigger surprise. Like a Virgin and 4 minutes were my favs. And I loved how while Rachael and Finn were singing their mash-up all the different Madonna floated in and out of the screen in the hallway.
.-= Stef’s last blog post… Car accident + totaled truck = best garden ever! =-.
HC says
I ♥ GLEE!!
But I do agree, the story line definitely was put on the back burner this episode. And Shu Sylvester is starting to get annoying despite the fact that her character is awesome. Do you feel that way too?
lexi says
Okay I’m probably the only person here that is NOT a Glee fan. Sorry, I tried watching 2 episodes from the first season to give it a shot. I was just not feeling it. Maybe this is from performing in high school musicals my 4 yrs. in high school. I just can’t watch spontaneous singing – shoot me. I do LOVE Jane Lynch and Madonna so I hope that has some redeeming factor.
OKAY so here’s my two scents on the Givenchy line you mentioned – I am more excited about checking this out than the new MAC launch. That’s says a lot.
Katie says
I want the Island Guava lipgloss!
.-= Katie’s last blog post… Happy Friday 🙂 =-.
Lucy says
This weather is rotten. Normally, I like gray weather, but I’ve seen so much this year. In Vegas, we’re getting the nasty cold and gray too.
Such a shame…it was just starting to get nice.
Diva Style says
Beautiful photo!
HouseOfAccessories says
I need the lip gloss
.-= HouseOfAccessories’s last blog post… 2 by 4 Red,White and Blue USA Photo Prop Blanket,Ready to Ship =-.