That’s all folks! It’s a wrap on my Summer Beauty & Fashion Guide!

Once again, I want to thank all the awesome participating companies for their wonderful generosity. And, to my readers, thank you for taking the time to enter – and for tirelessly promoting this event via Facebook and Twitter!

I missed announcing last week’s winners so here are the last bunch of lucky gals… Congratulations!

eBeauty.ca: Winner of a $175 Prize Pack is #19 nicolthepickle
Tweezerman: Winner of a Slant Tweezer and Matchbox Itty Bitty Files is #60 NT
Oliver’s Labels: Winner of a $40 Git Card is #19 anya
Nail Polish Canada: Winner of Cracked Meal Collection is #397 Caitee A
LELO: Winner of a Flickering Touch Massage Oil is #196 Diana
LELO: Winner of a Flickering Touch Massage Oil is #22 marlibu
LELO: Winner of a Flickering Touch Massage Oil is #307 missbobloblaw
OPI: Winner of a Nice Stems! Collection is #200 Erin
OPI: Winner of a Nice Stems! Collection is #12 Erlinda
OPI Shatter: Winner of OPI Shatter in Black & Red is #322 Gina2
OPI Shatter: Winner of OPI Shatter in Black & Red is #467 Kylia
la Vie en Rose: Winner of a $100 Gift Card is #283 Ella Pretty Blog

I’ll do my best to send e-mails out this week; in the meantime, if you see your name listed here, don’t hesitate to send me a note with your complete mailing address plus telephone number.

Thank you once again to everyone who made this event EPIC!!! Muah!

Still quite a few fabulous giveaways open in my Summer Beauty & Fashion Guide! Once again, I’ve been a bit behind due to a crazy combination of work and family, but I’ve got a third group of winners to announce and I apologize for keeping you waiting!

As always, I wanted to thank all the very awesome participating companies for their wonderful generosity.

I won’t keep you in suspense any longer… Congratulations!

L’Oréal Paris: Winner of a $150 Prize Pack is #192 Major Gal
MD Moms: Winner of a $52 Prize Pack is #52 Amanda
Philips Sonicare: Winner of a FlexCare+ Toothbrush is #139 Shauna MacKenzie
SKECHERS: Winner of Shape-ups LiV by SKECHERS shoes is #1198 Josee
SKECHERS: Winner of ProSpeed SRR shoes is #3 Julia Gabriel
SKECHERS: Winner of Tone-ups RUN shoes is #181 trishsmth
SKECHERS: Winner of Tone-ups Fitness shoes is #1144 TinyTotsx2
SKECHERS: Winner of Tone-ups Glamgirl shoes is #1003 Jennie Yuen
3V Visa: Winner of a $50 Gift Card is #282 JoannaL
Face Atelier: Winner of a trio of Face Atelier Lipsticks is #334 Lila

I’ll do my best to send e-mails out this week; in the meantime, if you see your name listed here, don’t hesitate to send me a note with your complete mailing address plus telephone number.

If you’re not on the list, you still have many more chances to win – so go and enter a giveaway (or two)!

Still TONS of giveaways open in my Summer Beauty & Fashion Guide! I’ve been out of the loop for the last few days, but I’ve got a second group of winners to announce and I apologize for keeping you waiting!

Once again, I wanted to thank all the very awesome participating companies – this event will likely go down in history as the biggest makeup giveaway of the summer, and it’s all thanks to your wonderful generosity!

I won’t keep you in suspense any longer… Congratulations!

Old Navy: Winner of a $50 Gift Card is #588 Mom vs. the boys
Swiss Natural: Winner of a $150 Gift Basket is #27 Bajanjamie
Faces by Farah: Winner of a $400 Gift Basket is #1208 Tanna L.
Vasanti Cosmetics: Winner of a $150 Gift Basket is #221 Nicole
Luxe Box: Winner of a Deluxe Luxe box is #397 jonandjules
Kirby Dermaceuticals: Winner of a $120 Prize Pack is #207 Belinda M
Foxy Originals: Winner of a Reader’s Choice is #672 silverneon2000

I’ll do my best to send e-mails out this week; in the meantime, if you see your name listed here, don’t hesitate to send me a note with your complete mailing address plus telephone number.

If you’re not on the list, you still have many, many more chances to win – so go and enter a giveaway (or two)!

Still TONS of giveaways open in my Summer Beauty & Fashion Guide, but I know that y’all have been patiently waiting for the first group of winners to be announced.

Very quickly, I wanted to thank all the very awesome participating companies – this event will likely go down in history as the biggest makeup giveaway of the summer, and it’s all thanks to your wonderful generosity!

I won’t keep you in suspense any longer… Congratulations!

Marcelle Cosmetics: Winner of a $200 Prize Pack is #408 Amy
Annabelle Cosmetics: Winner of a $100 Prize Pack is #182 Tammi
Sephora: Winner of a $400 Prize Pack is #1374 Carlee
The Body Shop: Winner of a $150 Honey Bronze Gift Basket is #607 Rebecca
Petunia Pickle Bottom: Winner of a Boxy Backpack is #285 trola
CARGO Cosmetics: Winner of a $150 Prize Pack is #1006 Deepa
Lancôme: Winner of five (5) L’Absolu Nu lipsticks is #408 Anh P
Bobbi Brown: Winner of a Bronzer & beach Prize Pack is #794 JENNNY

Winners will be e-mailed shortly. If you’re not on the list, you still have many, many more chances to win – so go and enter a giveaway (or two)!

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

It’s the unofficial end to my Summer Beauty & Fashion Guide! (I’ve got a few more giveaways set aside for mid August – need to keep the good times rolling!)

And of course I wanted it to go out with a BANG! – so what better way than to feature my favourite Canadian retailer of luxurious lingerie – it’s la Vie en Rose!

So let’s talk about ta-tas. Specifically, my ta-tas. They’ve always been just a little bit heavier than the average rack. In fact, during a fact-finding ultrasound years ago, the technician had much trouble viewing the results, as my breasts were too dense to allow for a clear picture. In other words, they’re not the perkiest buds in the garden.

Enter breastfeeding. Ugh.

Do I really need to go into detail? All former breastfeeding mamas know what nursing does to the shape, feel and, ahem, gravitational force of boobies. Combine that with naturally weighty breasts, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. Paging: Dr. Push-up!

la Vie en Rose came to my rescue by sending me two of their most popular push-up bras: the Air Pad bra and the Double Gel bra. I literally wept with relief.

Now I had planned on posting before and after pics (with a t-shirt on of course!) but after scrutinizing the photos, decided that they still looked kind of racy. Hey, what can I say, I look damn sexy in a push-up; my knockers will knock you over! So in the interest of keeping this blog G-rated, I’ll provide my take on the bras instead.

The Air Pad bra (pictured above right) is the sexier of the two, with lacy details and a pretty, scalloped cup. I opted for both bras in black because I’m all about classic elegance, but do like to have nude and white bras on hand for “t-shirt time” too. Now this bra looks like a push-up, but is surprisingly light thanks to the air filled pads. In fact, the molded pads give ultimate lift to create maximum cleavage minus the weight, unlike some other extreme push-ups which can actually sag as they lift. Its quite frankly the perfect ratio of lift:weight for me, because the last thing I need is a heavy, cumbersome bra.

The Double Gel bra, which boasts double support,  is my preferred every day bra. The seamless foam cups don’t show under clothes; discreet gel pouches and underwire create ample cleavage; and a dainty scalloped lace trim on the back and sides is both romantic and understated. I love the feel of this bra – the cushiony, soft texture feels like second skin and offers a natural shape. And while I wouldn’t necessarily classify it as an extreme push-up, it does wonders to lift the ta-tas to a sexy height and gives a soft, feminine curve to your silhouette.

Click here to view all la Vie en Rose push-up bras.

Can you believe fall is just around the corner? Check out my favourite HOT look from la Vie en Rose’s “The Colours of Fall”:

Summer’s not over yet! And la Vie en Rose has many more gorgeous looks for the season – romantic lace bras & panties, swimwear (of course!), dressed-down casual wear and even must have accessories, including sandals, sunglasses, and hats & bags. Click here to shop online.

One lucky Listen to Lena! reader will win a $100 la Vie en Rose Gift Card! To enter, simply visit their online store and leave a comment here with your three (3) favourite looks.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” la Vie en Rose on Facebook
(5) Tweet daily: Please use this la Vie en Rose Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 28th. Good luck everybody!

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Woot! Flash feature!

Are you addicted to the new OPI Shatter? You’re not alone. Considered the hottest trend of 2011, and one of the most innovative advancements in nail polish, Shatter gives nails a stylish two-texture effect. Watch this:

Two (2) lucky Listen to Lena! readers will each win an OPI Shatter in Black and Red! (Value $30) To enter, simply leave a comment on this post telling us why you love the look.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” OPI on Facebook
(5) Follow OPI on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this OPI Shatter Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for two winners on August 28th. Good luck everybody!

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

This brand needs no introduction… it’s OPI, baby!

Now many of y’all know OPI as the world leader in professional nail cosmetics, but did you know that it’s a family-owned company? OPI was founded in 1981 by President & CEO George Schaeffer, who immigrated to the U.S. as a child from post-World War II Eastern Europe. Mr. Schaeffer, beautiful nails everywhere thank you!

I stressed over this review. A long-time nail biter, I pep-talked myself into kicking the habit so I could show off the pretty shades in the new Nice Stems! collection.

Alas, two little boys, tons of dirty dishes and frankly, a lack of focus landed me in hot water; my nails are awful! There is just no way I can possibly show my stubby little nails on camera – you’ll die laughing.

Thankfully, on a recent shopping expedition, I came across a Nice Stem’s promo piece and was able to snap a photo of the polish in action (click image to enlarge):

From top to bottom, on right: Play the Peonies, Come to Poppy, Be a Dahlia Won’t You? and I Lily Love You. Pictured left, first three shades overlayed with I Lily Love You for sparkle.

As you can see, the colours are varying shades of the prettiest pinks you can imagine. I love that Play the Peonies is such a sweet pearlized pink; a wonderfully understated and romantic hue that I envision on a summer bride. Come to Poppy is a daring, sensual come-hither poppy red with just enough pink to keep it innocent. Be a Dahlia Won’t You? is what I like to call a “Lena” shade – my toes are perpetually painted in vibrant fuchsias and this one makes the cut. With blue undertones its decidedly vixen and has a fine sparkle that adds to its star quality. Finally, I Lily Love You is a precious little sparkle that should be in every tween’s roster of faves.

If you weren’t already a devoted fan of OPI (and who isn’t?) here’s another reason to love them: To date, OPI and the Schaeffer Family Foundation have donated millions of dollars to charities worldwide, most notably the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, City of Hope, Gilda’s Club Worldwide and the Leukemia Research Foundation, among others. LOVE.

For some fun girly time, visit their website to find your perfect shade via “Try On This Colour.” I can’t tell you how long it’s taken me to blog this feature in between playing around with the virtual hues! Such fun!

OPI Nail Polish, including their new Nice Stems! collection, can be found at professional salons and retail partners all over the world.

TWO (2) lucky Listen to Lena! readers will each receive the Nice Stems! collection, which includes all four nail polishes shown above! (Value $40)

To enter, simply leave a comment here recommending your favourite OPI nail polish to others – and tell us why it rocks! If you’ve never used OPI nail polish, jump online and choose your perfect shade, then let us know why it’s calling your name.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” OPI on Facebook
(5) Follow OPI on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this OPI Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for two winners on August 28th. Good luck everybody!

Note: The following giveaway is open to US/CAN residents.

“Indulge yourself in the luxurious feel of LELO’s Flickering Touch Massage Oil. Naturally rich in vitamin E, the oil nourishes your skin while the addition of 24K gold flakes leaves it luminous and radiant. Our proprietary formula combines apricot kernel, grape seed and jojoba oils to create a blend that not only excites but also moisturizes to leave the skin tantalizingly soft and sensually scented. Available in three uniquely seductive fragrances, Flickering Touch Massage Oils are sure to relax and soothe your senses in all the ways you desire.”

To begin, how can you resist the sleek, seductive bottle? It is much more sophisticated than a plastic tube of massage goo! Second, the fragrances are absolutely soft and indulgent, easing away your stress and relaxing both your mind and body. After my car accident this winter, my husband has been treating my neck and shoulders to frequent massages with the Fresh Lily & Musk scent; it’s the perfect contrast of floral and earthy tones and the fragrance lingers for hours. Love.

Finally, what I enjoy most about the massage oil is that it is moisturizing but does not leave behind a greasy residue. It’s very hard to find the right balance, and I believe that LELO has developed a formula with just the right consistency. Did I mention the über cool 24K gold flakes? It’s nothing short of luxurious!

I would not hesitate to gift LELO Flickering Touch Massage Oil to bachelorettes, a significant other, or even to a frend that has been stressed out and needs to unwind. The oil comes in three (3) fragrances: Balsam Fir & Bergamot, Fresh Lily & Musk and Spicy Clove & Amber. Swoon!

Purchase LELO Flickering Touch Massage Oil online from LELO.com.

THREE (3) lucky readers will each win a LELO Flickering Touch Massage Oil! (Value $50 each) To enter, simply leave a comment on this post telling us how you unwind.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) Tweet daily: Please use this LELO Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 21st. Good luck everybody!

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

I hope y’all have been enjoying my Summer Beauty & Fashion Guide! Now technically this isn’t a “review”, because I haven’t had a chance to purchase from the company, but when an up-and-coming Canadian business is looking for a little exposure, I’m only too happy to oblige!

Introducing Nail Polish Canada, a Canadian online store focused on helping you find the most fantastic nail polish and nail treatments.

Stop the presses. Because I have to make sure I’ve got this right.

Salon quality nail polish brands;
Reasonable and often discounted prices;
Available 24/7 all in one place;
With free shipping over $29, and next day shipping;
Operated by obsessed, nail polish fanatics.

What’s not to love?

Nail Polish Canada carries many popular brands including Essie, China Glaze, CND and Color Club. “We know what’s hip and which collections are coming out. We work hard to get all the fabulous collections so you don’t have to scour 50 salons to see if they have your favorite colour.”

I’m quite tickled that they sell Color Club’s 7 Polish Sets; at just $35-40 per set, it’s the perfect way to dabble in a trend (such as brights) in a jiffy. The shades are often harmonious and include the best of Color Club’s polishes for the collection.

The website is categorized into Hot Deals, Styles, Colours, Brands, Treatments, Nail Art and Tools, making finding your perfect polish incredibly easy. To give you an idea of their selection, searching for Orange under the “Colours” link returned 75 nail polishes! I’m crushin’ on Soho Punch by Zoya :)

Nail Polish Canada also has the hottest trend of 2011 – Shatter & Crackle – nicely represented with a range of hot brands and colours. Bonus: you’ll find many of them on sale.

Another feature of the website I absolutely adore is that each product page links to Google Images so you can instantly see pictures of the polish on bloggers, make junkies and nail-o’s. However, if there’s one thing Nail Polish Canada is lacking at the moment, it’s customer reviews. So if you’ve purchased from them, or even tried out the shade at some point, be sure to leave a little feedback to help others make an informed decision.

Shop online at Nail Polish Canada around the clock!

One lucky Listen to Lena! reader will win China Glaze’s NEW Cracked Metal collection of 6 polishes! (Value $66) The colours, from left to right, are Haute, Oxidized Aqua, Latticed Lilac, Platinum Pieces, Tarnished Gold and Cracked Medallion.

To enter, simply visit Nail Polish Canada and take a look around. Then return here and leave a comment with some feedback for the website – any suggestions, findings, or even just a thumbs up!

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” Nail Polish Canada on Facebook
(5) Follow Nail Polish Canada on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this Nail Polish Canada Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 21st. Good luck everybody!

The following giveaway is open to US and CAN residents.

You may be thinking: What do labels have to do with beauty? It’s actually quite simple – I’ve got a ton of makeup. Like, almost enough to fill a home aquarium. Some of it’s mine, some I’ve set aside to review, and some of it I intend to give away. So how do I keep it all organized?

With Oliver’s Labels, of course.

Now take a look at those labels.

Click picture to enlarge if you must.

Did you notice something about the labels?

Their fabulous Pucci-inspired design?

The different shapes and sizes?

The Lena-esque colour combination?

Perhaps.

But did you happen to notice…

That there are no freakin’ dinosaurs or butterflies in sight?

That’s right, Oliver’s Labels are for ADULTS too! In fact, with so many fashion forward designs, including Roberto Cavalli Inspired, Rococo, Camo, London Primrose and more, you’ll make excuses to brand items with your posh new labels.

Check out all the designs here.

Of course, you could buy Oliver’s Labels for your child – in fact, I’m loving their clear and easy to read allergy labels, such as No Nuts, No Dairy, etc. And, they do have super cute designs with dinosaurs and butterflies. But I’ve been there, done that, and have a drawer full of labels for my little guys. This time, mama gets to play with stickers!

I opted for a customized package of Original Labels, Mini Labels and Mini Bag Tags.

Lena Loves:

1. I’ll say it again, the designs. I simply have not come across another brand that offers such vivid, colourful labels with the benefit of being dishwasher, microwave, fridge, freezer and outdoors-safe.

2. The Found-it Tracking System. Since I knew that I’d be using my labels for mostly small, personal beauty items, I didn’t opt to incorporate Oliver Label’s Found-it code, a FREE online Lost-and-Found system that let’s your stuff find it’s way home. Before you order labels, be sure to read more about it here.

3. The labels are top quality. From Oliver’s Labels: “Since November 2007 we perfected our top-secret method of printing full-color graphics on vinyl (When we first started OliversLabels.com, our labels were made of polyester). Our labels are completely waterproof and incredibly durable. In fact, we guarantee that our printing will never rub off.”

In addition to makeup, I’ve branded the underside of potluck dishes, storage boxes and more. In fact, I was recently at a party, and toted a label along to affix to my plastic drinking cup. You can believe my snazzy little Pucci label was the talk of the party!

Oliver’s Labels can be purchased online or via telephone at 1-800-398-2060. For a limited time, shipping is FREE on orders over $30.

One lucky reader will win a $40 gift card to Oliver’s Labels! To enter, simply jump online and find your favourite design. Then leave a comment here telling us what it is.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” Oliver’s Labels on Facebook
(5) Follow Oliver’s Labels on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this Oliver’s Labels Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 21st. Good luck everybody!

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Some people tend to crops. Some people tend to gardens. Me? I tend to my eyebrows.

A few months ago, I posted a picture of myself sporting CARGO’s BeachBlush, one of my favourite bronzers for summer. The post generated a little feedback for the bronzer, and A LOT of feedback for my too-awesome-for-words eyebrows!

I will admit; they’re not au natural. I do use an eyebrow pencil to fill in sparse areas, and have been known to spend about 10 minutes grooming them to perfection. But as for the shape, let’s just say that minutes before, I had given them a once-over with my trusted Tweezerman tweezer.

SLANT TWEEZER PICTURED WITH MATCHBOX ITTY BITTY FILES

I absolutely covet my Slant Tweezer: A ‘Best of Beauty’ winner chosen by Allure editors for 10 years. Positively the finest general use tweezer in the world – top eyebrow artists always recommend our original, award winning Slant for expert brow shaping. The perfectly aligned, hand-filed tips are slanted to grab every hair, every time with the smoothest, true precision.

Now raise your hand if you’ve seen Tweezerman tweezers at a local retail store, have taken one look at the $20 price tag and opted instead for ones selling for about $5.49? Guilty as charged. For I too once questioned whether Tweezerman products were really that much better.

Oh, they are. 

The “little black dress of beauty tools”, Tweezerman is incomparable in terms of quality and performance. The very first time I used a Tweezerman product, I was blown away with how sharp the hand-filed tips were. The tweezers literally grab on to even the tiniest hairs and pull them away efficiently and effortlessly, cutting your grooming time in half vs. those dull, cheapo tweezers.

Although the Slant Tweezer is generally my go-to tweezer, I do use a Point Tweezer from time to time for those stubborn, baby-fine brow hairs. All in the pursuit of perfect eyebrows. #WorthIt!!!

And Tweezerman isn’t just about tweezers; from nail files to eyelash curlers, shears to brow pencils, the brand represents a line of beauty tools designed to keep you groomed from head to toe. In fact, their Lash Curlers have a cult following as well!

Tweezerman products can be purchased at retailers across North America and online at Tweezerman.com.

One lucky Listen to Lena! reader will win a Slant Tweezer and Matchbox Itty Bitty Files (total value $24). To enter, simply visit Tweezerman online and choose three (3) other products that will help you look polished and pretty. Then, leave a comment here telling us what they are.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” Tweezerman on Facebook
(5) Follow Tweezerman on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this Tweezerman Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 21st. Good luck everybody!

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

In the past, it wasn’t easy for Canadian gals to get the makeup brands they love all in one place. Often, it involved settling for the usual department store standbys, or making a trip to a major city in hopes of stumbling upon a cosmetics mecca. That is, until now…

eBeauty.ca is Canada’s newest online shopping destination for EVERYTHING beauty. Truly a one stop shop for hair care, skincare, cosmetics, fragrance, bath & body, men’s products and beauty tools, eBeauty.ca grants Canadians access to the brands they know and love as well as to the prestige and niche brands they crave.

Lena Loves:

1. You can find over 300 premium brands such as Fekkai, B.Kamins, Consonant Skincare and Jemma Kidd (to name a few) at your fingertips – 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. In fact, eBeauty.ca currently stocks over 7,500 products!

2. eBeauty.ca’s offerings are ever-changing, seasonally fashionable and several are natural and eco-friendly. Essentially, many of the products keep you and the environment beautiful.

3. The products ship from Canada, so there is no stress about brokerage fees, extra charges, etc. And it isn’t it wonderful having prices displayed in Canadian dollars? PLUS, for a limited time, you can score FREE shipping on orders of $25 or more! (Now THAT’s pretty awesome.)

4. The site is incredibly easy to navigate and I LOVE how the product overviews are broken into “The Basics”, “Why You’ll Love it” and “What’s Included.” You can also find information for suggested usage and ingredients, which helps you make informed purchases. In fact, the only thing missing from the site, in my humble opinion, is a section for customer reviews.

The wonderful gals at eBeauty.ca sent me a few “Mommy” inspired goodies to try out.

Pictured above, clockwise from left: Mustela “Hydra Bebe”, 100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream, Mommy Makeup “Mommy’s Kisses” and h.wood beauty Lip Shine in “Plum”.

Since I’ve been swatching up a storm through this entire event, I opted to enjoy the makeup later and immediately put the 100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream to the test. The promise:

- 97% saw reduction of puffiness
- 87% saw reduction of dark circles
- 93% say it reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- 100% say it improved skin hydration
- 93% say it improved skin firmness/elasticity

I was a bit skeptical at first, because frankly, the bottle resembled something I could put together on my own – no fancy packaging, instructions or sleek lines. But if there’s one thing mommies (especially mommy bloggers) have, it’s dark circles and puffiness around the eyes. So I knew I had to at least give it a try.

The formula is airy like a mousse and absorbs into the skin instantly. Did I mention that it smells exactly like a chocolate doughnut? It’s true! I know it’s supposed to be coffee beans, but I swear I thought I was in Timmies for a second. Perceived fragrance aside, the cream is 100% natural, 100% vegan, and gluten-free.

I used the cream for 7 days and while I can’t agree that my dark circles are dramatically lighter, I can say that my eyes are less puffy, have a smoother appearance and are generally less tired-looking. And at just $25 per bottle (which of course, ships to your door at no cost), I wouldn’t hesitate recommending it to a mommy who’s looking to change up her routine. Score!

eBeauty.ca is the ultimate online store for hard-to find beauty products in Canada. Makeup to skincare, nail polish to perfume, you can find and buy your fave cosmetics from the convenience of your own home, 24/7.

One lucky Listen to Lena! reader will win an eBeauty.ca Gift Basket, valued at $175! In it, you’ll find summer-inspired products from drool-worthy brands such as CARGO, stila, Jemma Kidd, Juara, Whish Hair and more – all tucked into a gorgeous clutch purse.

To enter, simply visit eBeauty.ca and find one (1) favourite product that you wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to a friend, OR three (3) products that you would love to get your hands on. Then, leave a comment here telling us about the item(s).

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” eBeauty.ca on Facebook
(5) Follow eBeauty.ca on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this eBeauty.ca Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 21st. Good luck everybody!

If you’re a hard core beauty addict, chances are you know all about FACE atelier Cosmetics. For those who are new to the brand, may I introduce you to:

The official makeup sponsor for Madonna’s Confessions Tour
The preferred cosmetics line for TV shows like True Blood and Heros
The makers of Ultra Foundation PRO, found in Lady Gaga’s beauty bag

“Who is the FACE atelier woman? It is anyone who wants to look and feel her best, and knows that makeup is one of the many tools that women have to accomplish that goal. It is someone who more often than not, wants to start the day by putting her best face forward. Looking good is the best revenge against the trials and tribulations, large and small, that women face every day.” – About FACE

I’d been itching to get my hands on FACE atelier’s Facade lip colours. Facade boasts a one-of-a-kind, silicone-based, liquid-to-powder formula that provides a buildable matte color that sets with a natural glow. I was able to sample all five (5) shades:

NATURAL LIGHT

WITH FLASH

The first thing that threw me off with Facade lip colour is that it looks like a liquid – but is actually dry to the touch and applies like a powder. In fact, it’s pretty darn important to build colour gradually, or you risk having the product flake off.

Above, I swatched the shades with medium intensity; you could easily layer on more to reach true matte lipstick proportions. The product does have a drying time; therefore, you can clean up mistakes or make adjustments before your colour sets. And while it sets to a nice, natural finish. I recommend a top layer with FACE atelier’s impossibly shiny Lip Glaze.

Other products I love:

Lip RX: Indulge your lips with silky-smooth Lip RX, which lightly tints as it moisturizes and protects them from the elements. It provides organic ultra-violet protection, and is chock-full of anti-oxidants and essential oils. Available in three tantalizing sheer shades.

Shimmer: Colour your eye in ways you never dreamed using these ultra-fine, perfectly pigmented loose Shimmers. Our highly pigmented Shimmers won’t flake, are non-creasing and long lasting.

Ultra Foundation: The heart and soul of FACE atelier – an innovative approach to foundation that allows you to be in control. Ultra Foundation is a silicone-based emulsion that floats on top of the skin, doesn’t crease or flake, and lasts all day long. Hydrating yet oil-free, it obscures tiny lines and pores to ensure a smooth finish.

FACE atelier Cosmetics can be purchased online or at a retail partner across North America.

One Listen to Lena! reader will win a trio of FACE atelier Lipsticks, in Red Fuchsia, Pink Cashmere and Wheat (total value $66).

To enter, visit FACE atelier online and find another product that peaks your interest. Then, leave a comment here, telling us what it is.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” FACE atelier on Facebook
(5) Follow FACE atelier on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this FACE atelier Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 14th. Good luck everybody!

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Now you didn’t really think I’d tease you with all this makeup and not give you a bit of $$$ to buy some for yourself, did you? Enter below to win a cool 50 bucks!

Truth is, I don’t have a Visa card at the moment. (Wow, I just heard a harsh intake of breath from shopaholics around the world.) On Monday, as I was minding my own business and paying a few bills online, I noticed that my Visa balance was about $8,000. WTH?, I thought. Upon closer inspection, it appeared that someone in Paris (!) was having a jolly good time online shopping on my dime.

So my credit card was cancelled, a new one is waiting for me at my local branch, and now I have to go through the hassle of updating pre-authorized payments, etc. etc. And although this experience won’t dissuade me from shopping online with Visa in the future, I have newfound appreciation for those who are hesitant to do so.

Enter 3V Visa Prepaid Voucher – Canada’s first virtual Visa that allows you to buy online without using a credit or debit card. 3V Visa Prepaid Vouchers are a safer prepaid way to shop on any website that accepts Visa.

Here’s the scoop: Purchase a 3V Visa Prepaid Voucher from 15,000 locations across Canada, including ESSO and Canadian Tire gas stations. If you’re looking to purchase the voucher as a gift and you’re not opposed to online shopping, you can even grab one from their über secure site.You can purchase vouchers in denominations from $30 to $150.

The vouchers can be used online, by mail or over the telephone and are accepted virtually everywhere Visa is – because they come complete with a card number, expiry date and CVV2 number! In fact, all you need is an email address and to be at least 16 years old.

Et voila! An easy, straightforward way to shop online while protecting against identity theft!

Click here to learn more about 3V Visa Prepaid Vouchers.

Now it’s not perfect – there is a small fee associated with purchasing the voucher (for example $4.95 for $50), and since many online shops do not accept two forms of payment, you’ll need to find an item that is just under the amount of the voucher. But I still think it’s a fabulous alternative to a gift card (which limits the recipient to one store) and is fabulous for those who are shy to share their personal information online.

I received a voucher to review and it served me very well this week – I was able to order DVDs for the kiddos from Chapters.Indigo.ca and the process was sooo easy! I especially like that the expiry date and CVV2 number are accessed separately from your Visa number – a nice little touch that heightens security. Lena-Approved!

Purchase a 3V Visa Prepaid Vouchers from 15,000 locations right across Canada. Click here to find a store near you.

One lucky reader will win a $50 3V Visa Prepaid Voucher! (Remember, it’s for use online, by mail or over the telephone, and is accepted virtually everywhere Visa is!)

To enter, simply leave a comment telling us where you would spend the voucher (maybe at some of the online stores featured in this Summer Beauty & Fashion Event?).

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” 3V Visa on Facebook
(5) Follow 3V Cash Canada on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this 3V Visa Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 14th. Good luck everybody!

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only. 

Do you remember SKECHERS Week on Listen to Lena!, when I gave away 5 pairs of SKECHERS Shape-ups? Well, this wouldn’t be a Summer Fashion event unless I gave away 5 more, now would it? Woot!

Since most of my readers will be familiar with SKECHERS from my previous review, I”ll give y’all the Coles Notes version:

1. The goal with Shape Ups is to simulate walking on soft ground. SKECHERS has turned hard surfaces into comfortable ground through revolutionary technology (it’s science!) designed into the framework of the shoe. The core of this technology is in the dynamic rolling bottom, the soft foam insert under the heel and the dual-density midsole.

2. SKECHERS Shape-ups are not your typical orthodic sneaker. They are HOT as h*ll. Don’t believe me? Just check them out here.

3. Walking on softer, uneven surfaces forces you to engage muscles not normally used when walking on hard ground. Not only does this strengthen your muscles, but it also increases blood flow and reduces the impact on your joints and lower back.

4. Wearing SKECHERS Shape-ups will give you a body that is a cross between Kim Kardashian’s and Brooke Burke’s. Seriously, it’s science.

5. SKECHERS Shape-ups are the perfect supplement to your gym routine, or for any gals who may not have the time to exercise but want a proven, low-intensity method for toning and tightening up.

And now, here’s what you’ve been waiting for! Introducing the newest members to the Shape-ups family (click pictures to enlarge to view details):

Shape-ups LiV by SKECHERS, as worn by Brooke Burke and Kim Kardashian
- designed for walking and light running
- lightweight Resalyte midsole with sock-fit construction
- feels like you’re wearing nothing at all, very flexible

ProSpeed SRR, as worn by Brooke Burke
- designed for performance running
- lightweight Resalyte midsole and mid-foot strike technology
- dedicated runners and elite athletes love this shoe
- Exo-Skin seamless streamlined upper design

Tone-ups RUN
- designed for recreational running
- low profile, lightweight Resalyte midsole
- very light and flexible
- removable cushioned comfort insole

Tone-ups Fitness
- designed for toning and walking
- Kinetic Toning Pods and lightweight Resalyte midsole
- great for all-day wear
- dynamic flex-grooves in outsole provide traction control

Tone-ups Glamgirl
- comfortable sandal designed for toning and walking
- soft faux nubuck upper with wraparound side design
- cushioned and contoured comfort foam footbed

You can learn more about these Shape-ups, and more, online at SKECHERS Canada.

SKECHERS Shape-ups can be purchased at virtually any reputable retailer of sneakers and/or shoes, including SKECHERS retail stores! They retail for approx. $119.99, but several styles can be found on sale or on promotion. Visit their website to find a store near you.

Thanks to the awesome folks at SKECHERS Canada, I’m doing it again – giving away FIVE (5) pairs of SKECHERS Shape-ups – one of each pictured above!

To enter, check out the shoes featured above and decide which Shape-up fits your lifestyle best. Then, leave a comment here telling us which one it is, and why you’d like to win a pair of Shape-ups.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” SKECHERS Canada on Facebook
(5) Follow SKECHERS Shape-ups on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this SKECHERS Shape-ups Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for five (5) winners on August 14th. Good luck everybody!