Winner of the Avon Glazewear Lip Gloss Giveaway!

Congrats to yourshar0na - winner of the Avon Glazewear Lip Gloss Giveaway! She will receive a full set (16 shades) of America's best-selling lip gloss. Glazewear Lip Gloss delivers glossy high shine that feels light on your lips. Never tacky or sticky, the formula leaves lips feeling moist, with a silky-smooth, ultra comfortable wear.

Even if you didn't win, don't get discouraged. Just visit avon.com and snag your own...they're worth it! I really LOVE these glosses (my new fave shade is Rave) and they are super affordable at just $6 each. That's cheaper than most drugstore glosses, right?

Many thanks to Avon for introducing me to Glazewear and for sponsoring this giveaway. Stay tuned for Spoiled Pretty's next contest.

Blush Blast From The Past: Benefit CORALista

You know what’s almost as fun as a new beauty product? It’s when you re-discover an oldie but goodie that you forgot that you had.

For the past several weeks, NARS Blush in Torrid has been step 2 of my three step/minute makeup routine (step/minute 1 being Lancome Hypnose Drama Mascara and step/minute 3 being either Lancome Juicy Tubes 100% Natural Origin in Rose Pretty, Avon Glazewear Lip Gloss in Rave or Estee Lauder Pure Color Gloss Stick in Nude Almond topped with Make Up Forever Fascinating Lip Gloss in #10). But this morning, I decided to switch it up and go fishing in my bottomless basket o' blushes. What I came up with was Benefit CORALista Blush – and after sweeping it on my cheeks and admiring myself in the mirror, I can't believe I ever let CORALista slip my mind.

It imparts the most gorgeous, coral-pink glow that looks ab fab on a multitude of complexions. What I love most about CORALista is how effortless it looks; it applies like a dream and the blush actually looks like it's coming from within. Another reason to put CORALista on your shopping list? Coral happens to be the it blush shade right now (ladies, if don't know…you betta ask somebody ).

Oh, and did I mention that the blush – besides looking fantastic – smells fantastic too? It has this light floral scent that, while completely unnecessary, is totally genius. CORALista comes with an applicator brush, but for best results, I like to apply with my ecoTools blush brush.

Avon Glazewear Lip Gloss Giveaway!!!

Did you know that Avon Glazewear is America's #1 lip gloss? Surprising, right?

Because Avon loves Spoiled Pretty, they want to gift one reader with a full Avon Glazewear set!

As America's best-selling lip gloss, Avon sells the equivalent of eight Glazewears every minute. Glazewear Lip Gloss delivers glossy high shine that feels light on your lips. Never tacky or sticky, the formula leaves lips feeling moist, with a silky-smooth, ultra comfortable wear.

Glazewear is available in four new customized finishes, so you will no doubt find the right soothing, sexy or sassy shade for any occasion:

Intense: delivers impactful color that glides on beautifully with satin sheen and medium to full coverage.
* Shades: Brown Sugar, Cherry Liqueur, Crimson (my personal fave...it's in my purse as I type this), Intense Plum and Sweet Maple

High Sparkle: provides glossy, shimmering shine, creating dazzling radiance with brilliant sparkles and sheer to medium coverage.
* Shades: Apple Cinnamon, Dazzling Diamond, Mirage, Mocha Latte and Rave

High Shine: offers super high-gloss shine for megawatt luster with sheer to medium coverage.
* Shades: Darling Pink, Iced Pink, Island Glow, Mauve Movement and Tickled Pink

SPF 15 Clear: gives a super, high-gloss shine while providing sun-protection as it softens and moisturizes lips.

Glazewear Lip Gloss ($6) is available through Avon Representatives and at avon.com.

One winner will win all sixteen shades! This prize is worth $96!!!

Enter to win by leaving a message in the comments section. Make sure to leave your email or another way for me to get in touch, just in case you get lucky.

Contest is open to U.S. and Canadian residents. The giveaway ends at noon (EST) on Friday, June 25, 2010. Good luck!

Golden Globes Gorgeous 2010: Kate Winslet

Celebrity makeup artist Jillian Dempsey was responsible for Lancôme ambassador Kate Winslet's beautiful makeup at the 67th annual Golden Globes.

Kate's look was clean and luminous. Armani Luminous Silk Foundation showed off Kate's naturally beautiful complexion. To create contoured cheekbones, Jillian used Avon Be Blushed in Blushing Nude and highlighted the cheeks with a brightener.

Jillian Dempsey For Avon Professional Kohl Eye Liner in Navy played off the midnight hues of Kate's dress. Several coats of Lancôme Hypnôse Mascara in Excessive Black really made Kate's eyes pop.

For Kate's matte lip, which she requested, Jillian topped lip liner with Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge in Rich Cashmere for a soft, pretty finish.

Zoë Saldana: From Avatar to Avon

Today, Avon announced it has signed actress Zoë Saldana to be the spokeswoman for the brand's new fragrance, Eternal Magic, debuting April 2010. In addition to supporting Eternal Magic, Saldana will also be featured in the company's brochure as a face of Avon's color cosmetics category in the coming months.

"I'm very proud to be working with Avon and to be the face of Eternal Magic," says Saldana. "It means so much to me to be associated with a company that shares my values and believes in empowering women."

"We are thrilled to have Zoë as the spokesperson for Eternal Magic. Every woman wants to be unforgettable and Zoë perfectly embodies that feeling. She's a rising star in Hollywood – and has built a strong reputation for playing empowering characters that leave a lasting impression," says Geralyn Breig, Senior Vice President and President of Avon North America. "We were drawn to her inner and outer beauty, and feel she represents the perfect combination of strength and femininity."

An unforgettable fragrance that leaves an indelible impression, Eternal Magic creates everlasting memories with a fragrance signature that lingers in the air. The artfully crafted fragrance takes inspiration from the rare Princess Monaco Rose. The enchanting scent is the embodiment of the unique magic that surrounds mysterious, alluring women everywhere.

Eternal Magic launches in April 2010.

Avon Gift Tag Nail Files: Holiday Beauty Gift Guide

Whoever came up with these is a genius. These holiday gift tags double as nail files. They're $1.99 each and available at avon.com!

For more expert gift picks, check out Spoiled Pretty's 2009 Holiday Beauty Gift Guide!

Winners of the In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Giveaway

Congrats to Joyce Berzenski, Anne Gordon and Lauren Ledley - winners of the In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Giveaway. These winners will receive the limited edition Parfum ($59), that features a lavishly sensual and concentrated mix of blooming flowers. It is housed in a special gift box, featuring a bottle charm of Reese’s monogram!

In Bloom sparkles with a provocative blend of notes, including: Georgia Peach Tea Leaves, Crisp Greens, Star Gardenia, Magical Magnolia, Night Blossoming Jasmine, Cashmere Woods, Hypnotic Florals, and Amber Wood Crystals.

Many thanks to Avon for sponsoring the giveaway! Stay tuned for your next opportunity to get spoiled pretty.

In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Giveaway

Guess what? I've got another giveaway for you. Can you believe it?

Avon introduces In Bloom, the first fragrance developed in partnership with Reese Witherspoon. Alluring and mysterious, In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon is for the multi-faceted woman who’s down to earth yet glamorous, elegant, authentic and confident.

The fragrance is an invitation to experience the sensual side of a woman. Precious and exquisite, the scent combines a delicate femininity with a seductive allure and a mysterious beauty.

"In developing In Bloom, I found myself drawn to the scents of my childhood in Tennessee," explains Reese Witherspoon. "We had a great big Magnolia tree in the back yard, and it's that beautiful white blossom that inspired the perfume. In Bloom is indicative of where I am in my life today. I'm feeling very strong and independent, and so happy, so full of life. The fragrance truly captures that feeling­­—it's very sensual, very romantic and alluring."

In Bloom sparkles with a provocative blend of notes, including: Georgia Peach Tea Leaves, Crisp Greens, Star Gardenia, Magical Magnolia, Night Blossoming Jasmine, Cashmere Woods, Hypnotic Florals, and Amber Wood Crystals.

The In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Fragrance Collection includes:

In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Eau de Parfum ($34.00, 1.7 fl. oz.)
In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Limited Edition Parfum ($59.00, 1 fl. oz.)
In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Body Mist ($15.00, 3.4 fl. oz.)
In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Body Lotion ($15.00, 7 fl. oz.)
In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Shower Gel ($15.00, 7 fl. oz.)

Three lucky readers will win the limited edition Parfum, that features a lavishly sensual and concentrated mix of blooming flowers. It is housed in a special gift box, featuring a bottle charm of Reese’s monogram!

To enter the giveaway, send an email to fotohotcewekcontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "In Bloom Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Wednesday, November 18th. Three winners will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Thursday, November 19th, I'll announce the winners' names. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. residents.

In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon has partnered with Avon for the launch of her first fragrance, In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon.

The fragrance is an invitation to experience the sensual side of a woman. Precious and exquisite, the scent combines a delicate femininity with a seductive allure and a mysterious beauty.

"In developing In Bloom, I found myself drawn to the scents of my childhood in Tennessee,” explains Reese. “We had a great big Magnolia tree in the back yard, and it's that beautiful white blossom that inspired the perfume. In Bloom is indicative of where I am in my life today. I'm feeling very strong and independent, and so happy, so full of life. The fragrance truly captures that feeling—it's very sensual, very romantic and alluring.”

Noted include: Georgia peach, tea leaves and crisp greens (top); Star gardenia, magnolias and night-blooming jasmine (heart); cashmere woods, hypnotic florals and amber wood crystals (base).


“Reese was the perfect partner on the fragrance – she was fully involved in the whole process from the development of the juice and packaging to the fragrance name," says Isabel Ryan, Director of Avon Creative Development. "I logged many miles flying between NY and LA to work with her to make sure the end result was a true reflection of Reese’s style.”

The fragrance will be available globally in November in two sizes: a 1.7-oz. eau de parfum for $34, and a 1-oz. limited edition version for $59. A body mist, body lotion and shower gel also will be available for $15.

Avon SpectraColor Lipstick Is Now Available!

Remember how I raved on and on about Avon SpectraColor Lipstick? Well, it's finally available. And it's more fabuless than ever, because Avon marked it down to $7.99 (15% off)!

SpectraColor is seven lipsticks in one, which means you're only shelling out $1.14 per lip color...and you can't beat that with a bat!

Copy Alexis Bledel's Bold Lip Look

I envy the way Alexis Bledel pulls off a bold lip. So using some of my new favorite products from mark, I set out to replicate the look.

The video is a little on the long side (did you know that long-winded is my middle name?) but there's a surprise at the end.

Hang in there for a sneak peek at an amazing 3-in-1 lip product from Avon (to be released later this summer.

Products featured in video:

* mark Get In Line Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Hook Up (available June 2009)

* mark Lip Exotics Lip Lacquer Hook Up ( in Fever)

* Kaia 3-In-1 Sustainable Bamboo Cleansing Cloths (I remove the lipgloss with one)

* Avon Pro 3-in-1 Lip Wand (available July 2009)


For more video product reviews and tips, click here for Spoiled Pretty TV.

The Miche Bag

As you know, I'm a handbag fiend. Despite the fact that this site is (technically) a beauty blog, I spend a good amount of time introducing you to some pretty purses. But I'm an equal opportunity blogger, which is why I feel compelled to also address one of the fuglier purses I've seen in a while: the Miche Bag.

Have you seen this thing? The Miche Bag has interchangeable covers that attach with industrial-strength magnets, so you can change the look of your bag to match your tacky-ass outfit.

I'll give it to the creators...it's a creative idea. It's just a shame that the final product looks so cheap. I mean, the pleather appears to be so bargain basement that I could imagine, if your bag got dirty, you'd just wipe it down with some Windex and be on your way. And you know if it looks bad on TV, it's gonna look a hot mess when it's all up in your grill.

If you're looking for a bag that offers more than just one look, might I suggest Gwen Versatile Handbags? Gwen purses transform with multiple looks, textures, and styles. Hailed as must-haves by celebrities (Oprah digs them), Gwen handbags give their wearer the ability to create her own style.

I own a gray and silver Gwen clutch that was created exclusively for Avon (not the one seen above), and I luvre it.

Recessionista's Fabuless Pick of the Week: Avon SpectraColor Lipstick

Avon's soon to be released (June 2009) SpectraColor Lipstick is everything I was hoping L'Oreal HIP Color Presso would be.

SpectraColor Lipstick is seven shades of lip color packed into one sleek, innovative package. Created for the woman who loves to change her look from demure to dramatic, this is the first lipstick that lets you click to seven shades of perfection.

SpectraColor Liptick holds a light and dark version of your favorite shade in side-by-side chambers with a full spectrum of hues in between. The seven shade range allows you to create just the right look for any mood - just twist the dial and slide on the shine!

Formulated with Vitamins A, C, and E, this lightweight, high-shine formula delivers beautiful color that lasts for hours, is never sticky and won't bleed.

Available in 10 shades, the possibilities are endless with SpectraColor Lipstick.

Shades: The Berries, The Browns, The Caramels, The Lilacs, The Nudes, The Peaches, The Pinks, The Raisins, The Roses, and The Wines.

For more video product reviews and tips, click here for Spoiled Pretty TV.

New York Fashion Week: Thuy, Fall 2009

For the Thuy Fall 2009 show, Anthony Barrow for Avon created disheveled rocker updos.

“What we’re going for is to create a dry, airy texture and Thuy wanted the hair to go up…to be a little bit rockabilly. We combed through some Avon Advance Techniques Volumizing Mousse, on dry hair, and sprayed on Avon Advance Techniques Hair Spray. All of that is dried into the hair, using a hair dryer and paddle brush - which gives it a little bit of finish, but keeps it separated because we don’t want the texture to be too perfect.”

“The front half of the head is backcombed and the first few side sections are backcombed. Then the back is twisted asymmetrically across the back of the head. So it’s a bit like a French pleat, but it runs behind the ear. The front is dressed back up and twisted and the ends are left out, so there’s texture in the front. The reason for twisting the hair right to left is because the designer has created several looks with hats. So the hats go from left to right, so we’re balancing that out. What’s important is it’s not too pretty. It’s got a bit of gritiness to it. This is perfect hair, actually, because it’s a little bit damaged.”

When I asked about the inspiration, Anthony explained, “Thuy wanted something that was strong and ‘not too girly,’ in her words…and edgier and raw. But she wanted it to be clean and she wanted it to be flat. The emphasis needed to be on the front, with the texture. We went through many variations before we decided on this one.”

Romero Jennings (for MAC) created the futuristic makeup look. “Thuy was talking about optimism and the future and clean lines. So I felt that the makeup should be organic, like a lot of her shapes are. But because she’s doing some color, I decided to go black and white. I was able to use texture - so there’s shine and matte. There’s definitely a liner, and it’s done with Blacktrack Fluidline, mixed with some new products. We have a new Black Collection for fall that is amazing."

"On the lid, I mixed Frozen White Pigment with Gold Pigment and a little bit of Reflects Gold. On the cheek, we’re applying Mineralized Blush. But even though there’s a hint of color, you’re really not going to see it. On the runway, it’s going to look like black and white and the skin is just going to glow.”

“The lipstick is a mixture of Flesh Pot (from the limited-edition Heatherette Collection) and Myth. The look is kind of nude and fresh. On a darker girl, I’m going to use Chelsea (discontinued lipstick), which is nude and brownie. It’s pretty. It’s makeup that someone can actually do at home by themselves, with or without all of the extra things that I use. You can actually do this really great strong liner, highlight around it, do a neutral mouth and little bit of blush and you’ll get the same effect.”

When I asked Romero about emerging trends, Romero said, “For fall, I’m seeing that it’s dark. There’s a definite liner, but it’s not pointy. It’s not glam-y or vampy. It’s almost more futuristic and modern. That’s what I love about it. And the skin looks healthy.”

Anew, I Think I Love You

If you’ve been visiting Spoiled Pretty for any length of time, you know that I am an exfoliating fool. With all of the buffing and scrubbing I do, it’s a major miracle I don’t look like the Crypt Keeper by now. When it comes to exfoliation, I’m like an archeologist with ADD, relentlessly digging for buried treasure. And I’m not satisfied until my flaky façade is polished baby butt smooth.

I’ve tested an excessive amount of exfoliants, so it takes a serious scrub to even get my attention. But I recently tried a product so mind-blowing that it has my undivided attention. Avon’s Anew Clinical Advanced Dermabrasion is so rocking my world right now, I can’t even stand it.

Anew Clinical Advanced Dermabrasion is a skin system that delivers varied levels of exfoliation. The dual-barrel bottle is topped with a dial that allows you to increase the intensity of the micro-crystal formula, offering multiple strength polishing in one package.

To use, you simply apply to clean, wet skin. Starting with Level 1, use Anew Clinical Advanced Dermabrasion 2–3 times a week for 2 weeks before proceeding to the next level. After completing all 4 levels (8 weeks) stop using for 2 to 3 weeks and then start over at Level 1.

I noticed a dramatic improvement in my skin after just one use, and you know how much I enjoy immediate results. I used it before a date night dinner with Mr. Spoiled Pretty and let me tell you…my moisturizer and foundation melted onto my skin like buttah.

This is an ideal product for anyone with dry skin, rough skin texture, fine lines, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone and dark age spots.

Avon Anew Clinical Advanced Dermabrasion gets two very enthusiastic thumbs up. If you’re like me and like to scrub a dub dub it up, you must purchase this product - no ifs, ands or baby butts about it.

Jennifer Hudson's Super Bowl Makeup Scores A Touchdown

The 2009 Super Bowl on Sunday marked Jennifer Hudson's comeback, and she couldn't have looked more gorgeous as she sang the Star Spangled Banner. Makeup Artist Sam Fine details how to achieve a look that screams naturally confident.

"Jennifer is very trusting with her team and really allowed us to collaborate to bring a look that is fresh and new to her," says Sam. "She was performing a classic song, so I gave her a classic look that would speak to the song she was performing."

Get that Confident Glow
"On a field seen by millions of people, it's important to have beautiful skin," advises Sam. "I like to start with a perfect canvas - that is a priority."
How to: Start by layering bronzer onto the cheek bones using MAC Mineralized Skinfinish Degrade in Brunette. Then, apply a vibrant blush on top to add a pop of color.

Create a Classic Eye
"I wanted to play up the gold buttons on her jacket," says Sam. "So I used a golden brown eye shadow on the eyelid."
How To: Apply a light brown eye shadow across the lid. Then use Avon's Ultra Luxury Eye Liner in Black on the inside rim of the eye to add depth and definition.

"You can't do a performance without false lashes," states Sam. "They give the eyes sparkle in a naturally glamorous way."
How To: Apply the false lashes and then fuse them with your own lashes using a great mascara like Avon's SuperSHOCK Mascara.

Nude Lip is a Must
"I created a nude lip for Jennifer because I knew that a microphone would be in it's way for the performance," says Sam. "I didn't want to call too much attention to the mouth."
How To: Use a dark brown liner that is two shades darker than your lip color. Then add a nude to the middle of the lip - try Avon's Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Rose Mauve. Dab on a bit of gloss in the center to finish.

The overall look was natural, beautiful and confident. "Jennifer was so excited - I think her team was more nervous than she was," admits Sam. "We knew how important this was to her. But she was so clam and focused, listening to the song throughout the session to perfect the timing."

SAG Awards Beauty: Kate Winslet

This year at the 15th Annual SAG Awards, Best Supporting Actress winner Kate Winslet accessorized her gorgeous Narciso Rodriguez gown and dazzling Chopard jewels with a little help from Fekkai, Lancome, Avon and Serge Lutens.

Kate's glamorous low bun and side swept bang were created by Frederic Fekkai stylist Renato Campora using Fekkai products. To get the look, apply More All Day Density Styling Whip to wet hair for added volume. On the bottom portion only apply Coiff Magnifique Ultra-Light Finishing Creme to ends for a smooth blowout and to protect hair from the heat of styling tools. Using the Large Round Brush, blow dry hair and part on the right side. Once completely dry, use a one inch curling iron throughout hair to create tousled movement with dimension. Apply Technician Glaze to ends working it through with fingers for texture that is not too heavy. Tease the top of the head - ever so slightly - to create a touch of height. Next pull hair back into a low ponytail. Create a loose braid and twist it around to form a bun. Secure with pins. Making a braid helps to keep the bun from appearing to severe and gives it the soft modern touch.

Celebrity makeup artist Jillian Dempsey played up Kate’s eyes with lots of black eyeliner, mascara and shimmering shadow paired with a soft neutral palette on her lips and cheeks. Jillian used Lancôme Artliner in Noir on the upper lash line and then lightly dusted Jillian Dempsey Professional for Avon Eyeshadow Trio in Pebble Wash on the eyelid. She finished the eyes with a few coats of Lancôme Ôscillation Mascara in Black. For the lips, she used Serge Lutens nude lip liner and filled in the entire lip. Finally, she applied Color Fever Gloss in Engaging, a very sheer nude shade, for a high-shine pout.

Golden Globes Gorgeous: Kate Winslet

Celebrity makeup artist Jillian Dempsey did Lancôme ambassador Kate Winslet’s makeup and gave me the scoop on the makeup she used. Jillian wanted to play up Kate’s eyes, cheeks and lips.

She used Jillian Dempsey for Avon Professional Kohl Eyeliner in Black on the upper lash line first and then applied dark brown eyeliner and smudged it on the lower lashes. Next, she lightly dusted Lancôme Color Design Eye Shadow in Chic on the eyelid. To make Kate’s eyes pop, she added a few coats of Lancôme Ôscillation Mascara in Black. Next, Jillian added some color to the apples of the cheeks by custom blending several shades of coral, peachy blushes together. Jillian opted for a classic red lip and finished the look with Avon Pro-to-Go Lipstick in Cherry Glisten.

I'll Never Apply Blush The Same Way Again

Jillian Dempsey is a smart cookie. She's the lucky lass who took McDreamy off the market. So when Jillian, a makeup artist and Global Creative Color Director for Avon, shared her tips for choosing and applying blush...you best believe I'm taking copious notes.

"When I'm working on a client, I smile so she'll smile, which accentuates the best part of the cheeks to apply blush. I put the the highest concentration of color just outside of the fattest part of the cheeks - not directly under the eyes. You don't want that flush of color to be too close to the nose or the temples because that screams 'too much blush.'"

Since reading Jillian's advice in November's issue of Allure, I have been applying my blush exactly as she recommends. And I have to say that I am amazed at the difference a few millimeters can make. For the first time in what I fear is too long, I actually look like I'm blushing.

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Beach Bag

The weather forecast says 88 and sunny, not a cloud in the sky. After an exhaustive search, you’ve found the elusive “perfect” swimsuit. And you’ve picked out a trashy read, with no literary value whatsoever. So you’re ready for the beach, right? Wait. Not to burst your proverbial bubble, but you’re not all set yet.

A trip to the beach requires much more than a cute swimsuit. If you’re planning for a relaxing, idyllic day of surf and sand, you might want to put some serious thought into what you’ll pack in your bag. Because there’s nothing less relaxing than getting to the beach and realizing that you’ve left some important necessities at home.

To ensure that you’re pretty and prepared for your day at the beach, remember to bring along the following must-haves for your beach bag:

* Sunscreen: When selecting a sunscreen product, be sure to read the label before you buy. Experts recommend products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. The SPF number represents the level of protection against UVB rays provided by the sunscreen…a higher number means more protection. The two most common (and painful) sunscreen mistakes are using too little and waiting too long to reapply. About 1 ounce of sunscreen (a palmful) should be used to cover the arms, legs, neck and face of the average adult. For best results, most sunscreens must be reapplied at least every 2 hours and even more often if you are swimming or sweating. Products labeled "waterproof" may provide protection for at least 80 minutes even when you are swimming or sweating. Products that are "water resistant" may provide protection for only 40 minutes. And don’t forget your lips, especially if you’re a lipgloss fanatic like me. Many dermatologists say that slathering on glosses can increase your risk of developing skin cancer because shiny nature of the gloss could be making the sun’s UV rays hit harder. So if you’re going to grab for a gloss, make it one with at least SPF 15.

* Wide-brimmed hat: A hat with at least a 2- to 3-inch brim all around is ideal because it protects areas often exposed to the sun, such as the neck, ears, eyes, forehead, nose, and scalp. A baseball cap is also a good choice. A hat not only protects from the sun's intense rays, it can also cover and tame wind-blown hair.

* Sunglasses: The ideal sunglasses don’t have to be expensive, but they should block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB radiation. Check the label to be sure they do. Some labels may say, "UV absorption up to 400 nm." This is the same as 100% UV absorption. Also, labels that say "Meets ANSI UV Requirements" mean the glasses block at least 99% of UV rays. Those labeled "cosmetic" block about 70% of the UV rays. If there is no label, don't assume the sunglasses provide any protection. Large-framed and wraparound sunglasses are more likely to protect your eyes from light coming in from different angles.

Today is the final day of Spoiled Pretty’s In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week, and we’re giving away an Envirosax bag filled with treats!


Envirosax bags are lightweight, portable, waterproof, affordable, and stylish! With reinforced seams, each surprisingly large bag can hold at least 40 pounds, and the carrying handle is long enough to comfortably carry over your shoulder. The Flora line of Envirosax bags draws its inspiration from the colors and shapes of pristine Australian rainforests.

The winner’s bag will include:


Secret Flawless Antiperspirant/Deodorant: If you secretly crave strong wetness protection that smells fresh and has skin conditioners, your search is over. New Secret Flawless gives you everything you long for — all in one cutting-edge antiperspirant.


Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara: Lash Blast's patented volume-boosting formula and patent-pending brush are designed to max-out each and every lash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look.


Goody Mosaic Ouchless Purse Brush: The ultimate in snagless styling. This brush is smaller sized – perfect for travel or on the go styling.


Bath & Body Works Body Splash in Blushing Cherry Blossom: Cherry blossoms blended with lighthearted jasmine, rose juliette and crisp citrus capture the romantic first blush of spring. Other notes include mandarin, lush berries, fresh melon, musk, violet, and creamy Sandalwood. Contains naturally pampering aloe vera to leave skin conditioned.


Neutrogena MoistureShine Lip Soothers SPF 20 in Shine, Sheen, and Gleam: Provides instant, soothing relief on contact with beautiful high gloss shine and SPF 20. The unique hydragel formula contains conditioning botanicals and glycerin for intense moisturization. Carry this pocket-portable gloss with you for use whenever you want hydrated, beautiful lips.


Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard: Don’t let bugs and sun spoil your outdoor fun this summer. Protect yourself from both the sun and certain insects with NEW Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535 Expedition SPF 30. Using patented time-release technology, it creates an invisible barrier of protection to repel against mosquitoes, gnats, no-seeums, sand flies, and biting midges. certain insects. When applied properly, users are shielded with water-resistant SPF 30 sunscreen protection. Bug Guard Plus IR3535 Expedition SPF 30 is available in two versions - an unscented aerosol and a pump spray with a Gentle Breeze™ fragrance. The winner will receive both!


And because I’m feeling especially generous this week, four runners-up will receive an Envirosax Flora bag!

To enter, send an email to fotohotcewekcontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Envirosax Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Saturday, July 5th. One winner and four runners-up will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Sunday, July 6th, I'll announce the winners names. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents only.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!