green is the new black, and it's sexy as...

Fragrances in fashion are an interesting category.  Some smell fabulous; others, not so much.  Some invoke positive memories and emotions; others, not so much.  Some are made with rare ingredients and are created with time-honored traditions; others, not so much.  When it comes to fine fragrances, there is only one master.  And his name is Tom Ford.

From years at Gucci and Yves St. Laurent, to his own brand for more than a decade, Mr. Ford gives 100% of his attention to every single detail.  His demand for excellence and superior design are unrivaled.  If his name is on the product, you are guaranteed to fall in love.  From fragrance to footwear and everything in between, the quality and integrity of each product go above and beyond expectations. 

This same commitment to exceeding expectations is found especially in the service you'll receive with Tom Ford employees.  I've never seen a brand with so many dedicated, loyal, and knowledgeable staff.  It's as if each associate is also an ambassador for Mr. Ford himself.  Case in point: Kerin, Clarence, and Tonya at the Tom Ford Beauty boutique inside Nashville's Nordstrom.  The love these beautiful people have for their brand, let alone their industry, is infectious.  Before new product even arrives in store, I get phone calls and messages filled with excitement and anticipation, as if an old friend was calling to tell me the best news of their life.  It's absolutely awesome to build a relationship with such fabulous people, especially when they share my love of looking good and feeling better.

A few weeks ago, I was introduced to the new Vert private blended fragrances.  Even the descriptions of the fragrances go above and beyond, detailing the overall notes of the scents, plus specific emotional feelings and images.  You don't just smell a fragrance; you're transported to an imaginary world of fabulosity and grandeur. 

Bright.  Ethereal.  Divine.  Sparking and infallible like a jewel gleaming in the sun, private blend Vert Boheme is Tom Ford's interpretation of green at its most free-spirited.  Sicilian Mandarin and Magnolia exude bohemian femininity, exquisitely enhanced with Gustavia, also known as the tree of heaven, known for its spectacular single blooms that last for just one day.  The fresh vibrancy awakens a divine first bloom, crystal-clear and exposed.  

Expressive.  Indelible.  Deep.  Private Blend Vert Des Bois introduces provocative woods at their most expressive.  An inventive ingredient in modern perfumery, poplar bud extract infuses avant-garde edge to traditional green.  The extract from the unopened buds is further driven by spiked ouzo, evoking the deepest thicket of snow-laden forest. 

 

Aromatic. Distinguished.  Wild.  The unbridled nature of the Corsican coast, known as the "Perfumed Isle," inspires a distinguished scent at once sophisticated, aromatic and wild.  Smoky incense, pine resin, and fir balsam evoke the dense forest and rugged peaks, while delectable heliotrope and woods heighten the grand atmosphere of sea and shadow.  

I always joke that cosmetics brands can't hire ugly people, since the product they're selling is supposed to be beautiful.   Kerin, Clarence, and Tonya aren't just physically beautiful, with flawless skin and gorgeous makeup - they exude beauty.  Always gracious, happy to demonstrate products, and providing fabulous service, they are my one-stop-shop for all things beautiful.  To place an order or book a consultation, phone +1.615.850.6700.  

With these new Tom Ford private blend fragrances, Green is the new Black, and it's sexy as...

black is beautiful, a-peeling, reparing

Just as we change our wardrobes as the weather changes, so to should our skincare and haircare.  As you're exposed to the elements, especially sunny, sweaty environments, it's important to stay protected, hydrated, and fresh.  Here are a few things I'm loving that'll help put your best face forward:

Ouai Repair Shampoo

What it is:
A moisturizing shampoo that replenishes and nourishes for strong, healthy-looking hair.

What it is formulated to do:
This nourishing cleanser is infused with Ouai’s unique Smart Technology Complex™ to replenish moisture and fortidy breakage-prone strands. Hair is left looking shiny and feeling stronger.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product is ideal for chemically and mechanically damaged hair, and also nice to keep in rotation if you're going to be out in the sun, swimming, sweating, or exposed to the elements.  Added bonus: it makes an incredible, rich lather and smells fabulous.

Ouai Repair Conditioner

What it is:
A mega-moisturizing hydrator that feeds damaged hair without adding weight.

What it is formulated to do:
This nourishing conditioner repairs damage from chemicals, color, and heat. A super-moisturizing hydrator, it is infused with Ouai’s unique Smart Technology Complex™ for nourished, healthy-looking hair.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product is ideal for chemically and mechanically damaged hair.  If you apply any face masks or treatments, be sure to apply the conditioner first, massage well into the hair and scalp, and let sit for a few moments while you treat the face/body.  This makes for optimal efficacy and luxurious results.

boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser  

What it is:
A warming gel cleanser that deeply cleans and detoxifies the complexion.

What it is formulated to do:
This Black Cleanser heats up on contact with skin to effectively open and de-clog pores. Its gel texture transforms into a gentle and effective lather to dissolve oil and makeup, rinsing away pore-clogging surface debris, impurities, and excess oil. It refines skin texture, brightens skin clarity, and minimizes the look of pores over time.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

boscia Exfoliating Peel Gel 

What it is:
A lightweight peeling gel that delivers gentle exfoliation for deeper, more thorough cleansing results.

What it is formulated to do:
Get the benefits of a peel—without the harsh side effects. This peel gel acts as a physical peel to remove the outer layer of dead skin, as a chemical peel to penetrate deep into skin for in-depth exfoliation, and as a treatment to firm and brighten for a healthy complexion. It’s triple-activated to get the best results with outer exfoliation and chemical exfoliation deep within pores while a brightening treatment can penetrate deep into skin. It bonds together so you instantly feel outer layer of skin being fully exfoliated. After rinsing, it lets skin appear smoother, softer, and brighter-looking after a single use.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This color-free product is free of preservatives, artificial fragrance, ethanol alcohol, gluten, and it is dermatologist tested.  Very important: apply this product to a dry face with dry hands.  If your face or hands are damp or wet, the product gets incredibly sticky and doesn't apply correctly.

boscia Luminizing Black Mask 

Which skin type is it good for?
✔ Normal
✔ Oily
✔ Combination

What it is:
A groundbreaking, mineral-rich mask that peels off to deliver powerful detoxifying, purifying, and brightening effects.

Solutions for:
- Enlarged pores
- Oiliness
- Dullness and uneven texture

If you want to know more…
This jet-black, mineral-rich mask creates a unique peel-off effect that delivers powerful detoxifying, purifying, and brightening results. Made with a premier-quality clay, its deep-cleansing properties draw out dirt and oil. Other natural ingredients go to work exfoliating skin and refining pores. Powerful antioxidants shrink the appearance of pores, firm skin, and reduce inflammation. Once dried, the mask strips away dead skin, impurities, and excess oil to reveal immediate and visible results.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product is also free of artificial fragrance and color, gluten, and ethanol alcohol. It is dermatologist tested.

Research results:
After 4 weeks of use:
- 91% reported their skin felt softer
- 91% reported their skin felt less oily
- 82% reported their skin appeared brighter 

I tried all 5 of these products last night, and am really impressed.  I started with the peel, then in the shower used the cleanser, shampoo, luminizing mask, and conditioner.  Afterwards, I followed up with my everyday Skin Revitalizing Concentrate from Tom Ford and a sample of the super moisturizing and repairing Premier Cru The Cream from Caudalie.   What're you loving this summer?

farm fresh faces

I love mission based retail: brands, companies, stores, and designers, who all have a special purpose and motivation behind their business.  I don't just mean having a mission statement; there has to be a greater cause.  For example, (product) RED is a movement to provide really cool products that are no more expensive than the regular versions, but a portion of the proceeds supports AIDS research and provides lifesaving medicine and treatment to pregnant women with HIV and their young children.  Or the Navy Exchange - a semi-governmental agency that sells quality goods and services to active duty, retired, family members, and Department of Defense civilians at a more affordable price, and ultimately donate a large portion of the proceeds to the morale, welfare, and recreation at military installations worldwide. 

Now, imagine a company going "above and beyond" a standard mission and addressing multiple needs simultaneously.  Imagine a company that employed local, small farmers to produce ingredients naturally, with as minimal negative impact on the environment as possible.  Now also prioritize hiring young people, who traditionally avoid the agricultural and farming industries for work.  And then sprinkle in the fact that those fresh, locally farmed ingredients are transported just two hours to the laboratories, where they're cold pressed for maximum efficacy and strength (much like the farm-to-table restaurant movements).  All these incredible aspects only begin to scratch the surface of the ethos at Farmacy Beauty.



Farm fresh ingredients + scientific engineering and formulation = gorgeous skin naturally.  Skincare doesn't have to be fussy, full of fillers and lackluster ingredients, and definitely isn't just for women.  Here are some Farmacy Beauty products I'm loving:

Sleep tight!  Literally.  Reinforcing the skin’s natural moisture content, this balm aids firmness and tone while helping to restore elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The texture is super lightweight, which I really appreciate in the warmer weather.   I rubbed a pea-sized amount on the palms of my hands to "warm up" the product, turning the gel into a luxurious oil-like consistency, which quickly melted onto my face, neck, and left just enough to treat my hands as well.  Farmacy Beauty's star ingredient is Echinacea GreenEnvy, a unique patent-protected variant of Echinacea Purpurea.  GreenEnvy contains the highest known concentration of the phytochemical Cichoric Acid, a potent natural antioxidant which helps protect and firm the skin by inhibiting the enzymes that break down collagen.  Cichoric Acid is more than just a powerful anti-aging booster - it also normalizes the skin pigmentation process to promote a more evenly toned, smoother complexion.  In short, Sleep Tight packs a powerful punch with vegetable-derived “Retinoid-like” ingredients to help prevent early wrinkles, smooth deep wrinkles, improve skin radiance and texture while restoring firmness.

It would be so easy to recommend a cleanser, exfoliant, and toner.  Or you could put your best face forward with New Day.  If you're in a hurry in the mornings, travel frequently and have limited space in your cosmetics bag, dopp kit, or gym bag, or are on a budget, this is definitely for you.  This powdered product is a three-in-one, gently cleaning the skin, sloughing away dead skin cells and pesky pore-clogging debris, then clarifies and tones, leaving skin silky smooth and radiant.  

I tried this out in the shower and can't say enough good things. I poured about a quarter sized amount into the palm of my hand and mixed a few drops of water into a frothy paste.  I then massaged it all over my face, neck, and hands, allowing it to sit for a few minutes (while I conditioned my hair), and rinsed clean.  

Natural cranberry seeds and rice bran powder sweep away dead skin cells and debris and absorb excess oils, while the brand's stellar GreenEnvy protects against anti-oxidants and free radicals.  Plus a natural cocktail of White Willow Bark, Carrot, Green Tea and Marshmallow soothe, protect and calm the skin.

I love face masks.  They're quick, effective, and convenient.  If you travel frequently or are always on-the-go, I recommend getting one of the assortment packs.  This way if you have a sudden breakout or unexpected dry patch, you have a quick and easy solution without having to buy an entirely new skincare regime.  During the summer months, you're more likely to have increased sun exposure as well - so a trip to the "farmacy" may be just what the doctor (or farmer!) ordered.  Natural coconut gel provides natural moisture to help skin look fresher and more radiant.  Kale extract offers a complex blend of minerals, antioxidants, vitamins and amino acids that helps re-balance vulnerable, stressed skin. Vitamin A strengthens the skin while active minerals help restore the skin’s ideal oil and water balance.  All in one easy mask.

Smooth, soft, full lips are always en vogue.  And that's exactly what you'll get with this soothing herb-infused balm.  In addition to the anti-aging GreenEnvy, Caster Seed Oil provides a plant-based protective film that helps preserve natural hydration levels, while Sunflower Seed Oil helps maintain the skin’s barrier function with high levels of emollients derived from natural essential fatty acids.  And the best part - it's not glossy, so it's perfect for men and women.  

With Farmacy Beauty, you don't just have to eat your fruits and vegetables - you can wear them, too!