Thursday, March 5, 2009

in the bag


There's no doubt in my mind that the expression "everything but the kitchen sink" was thought up to describe the contents of the average diaper bag. I love my trendy denim version--even though it's always jam packed with wipes, creams, disposable diaper bags, snacks, drinks, books, toys, extra clothes, medicines, hand sanitizer, and--oh, right--diapers. The Velcro closure sometimes doesn't stay closed and the bag hangs low on my stroller, weighing us down. On top of it all, I still have to stash other must-have items underneath the stroller. I've often wondered why someone can't just design the ideal diaper bag that looks good and holds everything. Dad Thorsten Kothe had the same idea. He created the Baggino ($149), a three-in-one bag that combines style and functionality with plenty of room to spare. The combination diaper bag can go from messenger bag to stroller bag to changing belt (so you don't have to put it down on unsanitary surfaces) in no time flat. It includes a changing mat, zippered pouch for parents' valuables, cell phone holder, built-in baby wipes case, five interior pockets, two side pockets, a handy key clip and a two-sided zipper which makes it reversible. And forget baby blue and powder pink--this cutting edge style comes in classic black, lime green and black with lime green. So classic, my husband won't even mind pushing the stroller... Get yours now at www.Baggino.com (the bag, not the husband!)

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

come clean


Most of us remember our teenage years as being a really fun time in our lives. Parties, proms, getting our driver's licenses... But some teens are faced with one of the biggest obstacles during this time--breakouts. There are plenty of treatment options on the market but many contain harsh ingredients that can strip skin of its natural oils, which can cause breakouts and increase oil production. Definitely a vicious cycle! Dermalogica comes to the rescue with Clean Start, a complete line of skincare products designed to address the needs of teenage skin (even the package design is pretty clean!) Wash Off (a foaming cleanser; $20), All Over Clear (a refreshing toner; $18), Ready, Set, Scrub (a mask/scrub in one; $21) , Welcome Matte SPF 15 (a lightweight lotion that eliminates shine without drying skin or clogging pores; $24), Brighten Up SPF 15 (a lotion/UV shield that gives you a natural tint and subtle shimmer for an all-day glow; $24), Bedtime for Breakouts (an overnight treatment that purifies, exfoliates and clears skin; $22), Hit the Spot (a concentrated blemish treatment; $22), Smart Mouth Lip Shine (shine without stickiness; $16) and the Clean Start Kit (five mini-sized products; $35). In addition to clearing up your skin, Dermalogica has helped clear the way for some pretty dedicated teen artists. The brand has partnered with Inner City Filmmakers (ICF), a Los Angeles-based mentoring program that offers urban teens creative, educational and professional opportunities through all aspects of filmmaking. ICF produced the video that launched these new products, showcasing the talents of this creative group. Go to www.cleanstart.dermalogica.com to learn more or click on www.ulta.com to stock up now.

Sunday, March 1, 2009

the whole package


My kids always try to steal my makeup. They love opening the packaging, playing with the tubs and tubes, and trying to squeeze or scoop out the product. I try to keep my favorite finds out of sight but Paul & Joe Beaute isn't making it easy. The company just introduced a limited edition Disney collection featuring pampering products in packages that feature your favorite Disney characters--sure to attract both the young and the young at heart.

Dust on Face Color B. ($36), a soft, shimmer highlighter, on cheeks with the accompanying powder puff. It comes in classical pink (featuring Flower) and fantasy orange (featuring Bambi). Slick your lips with the Milky Lip Treatment ($18; featuring Marie the Cat from the Aristocats) in a flirty pink shade for a dose of moisture and a hint of color. And smooth your hands with Protective Hand Cream (featuring Lady and the Tramp), an orange-flower scented cream that locks in moisture and protects your skin ($24).


Designed by Parisian Sophie Albou, Paul & Joe was originally started as a men's fashion line named after her two sons. She added a women's fashion line, then a beauty collection to make up the creative assortment it is today. The product lineup consists of foundations, powders, concealers, lipsticks, glosses and liners, blush, eye color, mascara, eye liner, brow liner, pencil and powder, nail color and treatment products, skin care, fragrance, brushes, and other makeup tools. All of the products are innovative, inspiring, complimentary and fun, and come in feel-good illustrative packaging.

Says Albou: "It's about having fun. I don't ask for advice; I just have things I love!" Go to www.primpingparleur.com
to make your purchase.