Susan Posnick Cosmetics - Blog

Susan Posnick on 'Beauty With Purpose'

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 10:00:26 GMT

Last week, Susan Posnick told us her story and what%26#8217;s kept her inspired in the beauty business. Now we%26#8217;re delving deeper into what makes SPC different. Susan tells us the big change happening this year that will keep your beauty simple—but make it more meaningful.%26nbsp;%26nbsp;%26nbsp;

Why did you choose the tag line, "Make Beauty Simple?" What does it mean to you? And how do you think women can make beauty simple in their own lives?
Susan Posnick Cosmetics really does %26#8220;Make Beauty Simple.%26#8221; All the products in the line are healthy, multi-purpose, and travel friendly. I think all women like playing with makeup, but they want something quick and easy to do, as we all lead such busy lives.

You overcame melanoma. What advice do you have for people regarding skin cancer prevention? How did that influence your beauty line--and your life in general?
Using and reapplying sun protection, preferably zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and wearing a hat are really the best deterrents to overexposure to the sun. Skin cancer is the only cancer that can often be prevented. I love the warmth of the sun on me, but I know from experience how important it is to protect my skin when in it. %26nbsp;COLORFLO, our portable foundation with sun protection makes it easy to stay protected.

What values do you take from your own life and apply to your business?
Each day I do my best to live my life with honesty, compassion and faith. Sometimes business makes these values somewhat more challenging, but the more I work to make them a priority, the more rewards seem to come my way.

How do you think cosmetics and anything in the realm of style can be used as a source for good?
I think that color cosmetics and fashion bring creativity into our lives--they inspire us to discover what makes each of us unique. I also think when a woman feels good about herself on the outside it's easier to feel the same way inside. No matter what trials may be going on in your life, if you feel like you look good and put a smile on your face, things really do get better.

What does SPC have planned in the future for philanthropy?

Our new tag line as of Spring 2013 is BEAUTY WITH PURPOSE. Yes, my cosmetics will always make beauty simple, but now we have brought new meaning and life into Susan Posnick Cosmetics. Not only is the purpose of SPC to hopefully prevent skin cancer, but we are also now partnering with an international humanitarian organization Linking The World, and donating a percentage of each product sold to LTW. Mina Chang, the president of LTW will be the new FACE of Susan Posnick Cosmetics. It is very exciting for me and my company to create beauty products that are good for you and make a difference in the world.

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*image via dmagazine.com

Susan's Story

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 02:01:04 GMT

Susan Posnick has been in the beauty business since the days of Pretty in Pink and perms. Suffice to say, a lot has changed--and she's been lucky enough to be part of it. This month, she%26#8217;s filling us in on why she got started, why she stuck around, and what%26#8217;s next for SPC.%26nbsp;

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Tell us a little bit about where you're from and grew up.

I grew up in a big town (small city) in Massachusetts, in a " happy" home with loving parents and 3 siblings. I lived in one house, with pretty much the same friends and neighbors through all my formative years--which I believe helped me develop a strong sense of security and become somewhat grounded. From a young age however, I had a strong sense of curiosity and knew that I would venture out into the world to "make my mark."

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When did you first get started in the beauty business? What drew you to it?

I guess in high school, I knew that I wanted to be in the world of fashion/beauty. As my family remembers, I was the one who hogged the bathroom--my hair and makeup always needing to be perfect! I paid meticulous attention to whatever I wore. Being fashion forward (which sometimes did not sit well with my school principle) just seemed to come naturally. I did a bit of modeling back then as well and enjoyed doing makeup for my friends and for school productions.

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Looking back, what moments or skills made you stand out and become so successful in your career?

If you are referring to my career as a makeup artist, I think besides being given a God given talent for makeup, I had a great passion for what I did and it was evident to those I worked with. In addition I have always been rather persistent, believing that if I learned my craft well, the work would follow--and it did. Of course having a mentor who was a well-known photographer in NYC didn't hurt either.

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You worked with some celebrities and supermodels in the past, like Diane Lane and Cindy Crawford. What was it like working with them?

One of the first things I learned when doing makeup was to always ask each celebrity if there was anything specific they always wanted done with their makeup. Everyone has " something" about their face that they like tweaked. Whether it%26#8217;s making the eyes look wide-set, or straightening a slightly crooked nose, they all know their faces well. I think asking that question%26nbsp;in the beginning made them feel secure in my hands.

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Why did you make the switch from makeup artist to a creator of cosmetics?

Passion and the desire to make a difference. I never imagined doing anything else but makeup, but in 1998 I got skin cancer on my face. I was allergic to chemical sunscreens and never liked the feel of foundation and powder on my face. I decided to see if I could create a portable foundation that offered sun protection at the same time, possibly saving someone else from skin cancer. %26nbsp;

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What did you learn working as a makeup artist?

I learned how powerful it can be when a woman feels beautiful on the outside. With that confidence, what's inside also shines. As Mary Kay's personal makeup artist for so many years, I also learned a great deal with regard to business ethics, and the importance of empowering women.

How to Clean Out Your Makeup Bag

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 12:15:39 GMT

How many times have you reached for your mascara, only to find it's coated in pink shimmery eyeshadow? Pink shimmery eyeshadow that you wore once--in 2007. Though spring cleaning is months away, it's never too soon to give your makeup bag a makeover. We're talking about items that are old, spilling and broken, or no longer relevant to your routine. Here's a few steps to make the overhaul easier.

1. Gather all your cosmetics into one pile. That's right. Anything you use to primp yourself--be it the volumizer spray stuffed in your shelf or the motley of items inhabiting the bottom of your purse. Decide what you regularly use and what's expired. Do you ever wear that drugstore lip plumper? That hair spray is from 5 years ago, so is it still good? If you're confused about how long items last, consult our list below:
%26nbsp;%26nbsp; %26nbsp;- Mascara: 3-6 months
%26nbsp;%26nbsp; %26nbsp;- Powder-based products (eyeshadow, blush): 2-3 years or until it cakes when applied
%26nbsp;%26nbsp; %26nbsp;- Foundation: Up to 1 year
%26nbsp;%26nbsp; %26nbsp;- Lipstick: 1-2 years or until it gets too dry
%26nbsp;%26nbsp; %26nbsp;- Eyeliner or lipliner: Up to 3 years
%26nbsp;%26nbsp; %26nbsp;- Hair products and body lotions: Check for expiration dates, but use your own discretion

2. Divide the items into what you use for the weekends, weekdays, or will never wear again. Reserve the weekday items for your makeup bag. Place the weekend items in a spot with more space. So unless you wear purple eyeshadow or sparkly bronzer to work every day, keep it in a cabinet along with the other 'evening out' makeup. As for the expired or never-again items, trash them. But for future use, consider only buying products you'll get good use out of--it's a way to keep your beauty simple and go green this year.

3. Once you've figured out what constitutes your makeup bag-worthy items, clean them up. Use a disinfecting wipe or towel soaked in water and a little alcohol to rid them of all that spilled makeup. Brushes and other beauty tools should be washed every two weeks, using a cleanser or warm water mixed with a pinch of shampoo.

Did we miss any tips? Let us know what you use to keep your makeup bag (and routine) up-to-date.

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*image via blushington.com

Friday Face: Kerry Washington

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 10:34:14 GMT

In Hollywood, there's nothing more dynamic--and difficult--than a successful career in television and film. But our Friday Face this week, Kerry Washington, manages both and then some.

Washington is the star of the hit series Scandal, where she plays a press aide to the President of the United States (inspired in part by the Bush administration). But it's not just another stock political series. She does serious damage control on the political elite's juicy, career-destroying secrets. She also had a main role in Django Unchained, the much talked about Quentin Tarantino film about a freed slave's mission to save his wife in pre-emancipation America. %26nbsp;

Her other roles? Political and social activist. Washington double majored in Anthropology and Sociology at George Washington University, so it's no surprise she dedicates her free time to philanthropy. She serves on the Obama Administration's 'Committee for the Arts and Humanities,' working to preserve and advance the arts in America. She's also a member of the V-Counsel, which focuses on playwright Eve Ensler's V-Day, a global movement to end violence against women and girls.

Keep up with Kerry on Scandal, airing Wednesdays 10/9c on ABC and learn more about her work for V-Day.

Stylish Ways to Go Green

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 10:23:12 GMT

We admit that "going green" can sometimes feel less like a lifestyle choice and more like a trend. But this year we're vowing to make it last every season. Eco-friendly, eco-fashionable, eco-conscious--whatever you choose to call it--can be surprisingly low maintenance. So consider these stylish and sustainable tips for 2013.

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Give new life to vintage. Instead of dropping half your paycheck on a new designer dress, try to find the same designer or a similar style in vintage. Sites like Etsy.com offer troves of rare clothes and accessories. Or visit local designer consignment shops for high-end brands that are high quality for half the price. Today's fashion is recycled from history anyway. Who wants 1970s-inspired maxi skirts when you can find the real thing?

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Try gift wrapping alternatives. Newspapers, old maps, comic strips, your niece's awesome drawings--any form of used paper can be given a second chance as wrapping paper. Our favorite? Excess fabric or scrap material in bright colors and vibrant prints make lovely gift bags.

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Grow a garden. So this one may have to wait a few months, but starting a garden in your own backyard can lessen your carbon footprint. Plus, your fruits and veggies are always in season, and you get to choose whether to use pesticides (we're guessing you won't).

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Wear organic and sustainable fabrics. Eco-friendly fashion brands have had a bad rep for being hard to find and unreasonably priced. But luckily designers are sensing the demand. Peruse this fantastic list of affordable, green clothing brands featuring fabrics in organic cotton, hemp, soy, etc.

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Use canvas bags. Doesn't it feel like every time you unload your groceries from what seems like hundreds of plastic bags, you're left wondering, why do I keep doing this? Plastics aren't biodegradable, meaning they'll hang out on our planet (i.e. in our dumps) for upwards to 1,000 years. Make 2013 the year you finally commit to canvas bags for all your shopping needs. Invest in at least five and keep them in the trunk of your car so you never forget. Get yours at Fredflare.com, Modcloth.com, and Forever21.

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Any other stylish and sustainable ideas? Let us know in the comments below.

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*image via magnifeco.com

5 (Doable) Beauty Trends for 2013

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 12:33:56 GMT

Every new year brings an onslaught of beauty trends that those in-the-know plug us to try. But if you're like us and aren't keen on 3D jewel appliques or know you'll never look good in a pixie cut (sigh), then you're fine being picky. That's why we've culled five beauty trends for 2013 that are pretty and best of all, completely practical.

Bright Color. Before you write off this trend as brazen, think of your favorite beauty color--be it deep red lips or a lilac lid. And go a shade brighter. Or be bold and give your lips or eyes a lift with bursts or magenta, fuchsia, lime or aquamarine. Trust our ColorMe in Peony or Lily or our ColorEyeDefine in Turquoise Liner/Topaz Shadow.

Swinging Sixties. If the beauty industry favors one decade, it's probably the 1960s, which we're totally okay with. We fess up to fangirling Brigitte Bardot and Mad Men inspired looks and lucky for us, this includes nude lips, doe eyes, and cat-eye/winged eyeliner. For the perfect nude, we suggest ColorEssential Lipstick in Dubai (for fair skin tones) and Sante Fe (for medium to dark skin tones).

Emerald. Jewel-toned green has been declared the color of 2013. Not convinced it'd work for you? Take it slow and go for a subdued version. We love the look for an eyeliner, like our ColorEyeDefine in Jasper Liner/Sandstone Shadow.

Lower Liner. Give your lower lash line more attention this year. Smudge brown or black liner from the corner of your lower eye to the near rim. Leave your lids bare or make them pop with a snowy shadow. Our ColorEyeDefine in Jet Liner/Moonstone Shadow are the perfect duo.

Updated French Manicures. Give the classic French manicure an upgrade by taking a cue from nail art trends. Go two-toned with muted nudes and flashy neons. And if you're tired of the same old tip, try it sideways, reverse, or diagonal.

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*image via bellasugar.com.au

Quick Tips for Keeping Moisturized in Winter

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 03:33:51 GMT

There's lots of things that irk us about winter: the slippery sidewalks, grimy slush come January, whoever spread the flu around the office. But the biggest pest? Our patchy, itchy, no-lotion-will-ever-work dry skin. So take action before the first snowfall with these quick tips for keeping moisturized.
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1. Save the soap for your nighttime beauty routine. Splash your face with cold water in the AM instead of using your normal face wash.
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2. Moisturize at least twice a day--thicker creams tend to be more powerful.
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3. Exfoliate skin, from your face to back. Consult with a dermatologist first if you're prone to acne.
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4. Ever wonder why your mother loved dragging out the (loud!) humidifier come winter? It's because it also works wonders for your skin.
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5. Take warm or luke-warm (not hot) showers! We know how tempting steamy showers are, especially when it's bitter out. But remember: the hotter the shower, the drier your skin.
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6. Shorten your shower time. You won't just save water bills (and the planet), you'll also save your skin. Note: if you don't want to follow step 5, this tip is especially for you.
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7. Apply lotion after you shower (when your skin is still damp) to lock in moisture.
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8. Soap-based body wash and shower gel can dry your skin as much as spending a day on the slopes. Switch to soapfree cleansers.
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9. Think before you spend the night in front of the fireplace (or heater). Curl up with a blanket instead.
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10. If you don't like the idea of thick cream, try serums for added moisture. They're richer in nutrients and come in all types: anti-aging, acne preventative, skin brightening, etc.

Friday Face: Christy Turlington Burns

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 11:04:14 GMT

You probably remember her face--in Calvin Klein and Versace ads and her stacks of magazine covers--as one of the eighties' iconic supermodels. And "stacks" is by no means hyperbole: she's appeared on (wait for it) 500 magazine covers.%26nbsp;Christy Turlington was, and still is, a household name.%26nbsp;She's left a respectable dent in the fashion world and now she is again, but in a very different industry.%26nbsp;

After complications in her first pregnancy, Christy learned that women die at alarming rates every year during childbirth. And just as astounding: most complications are completely preventable. She became an Advocate for Maternal Health for CARE, an international humanitarian organization that focuses on women, and got her Masters in Public Health at Columbia University. In 2010, she founded Every Mother Counts, an advocacy campaign to increase education and support for maternal health. And then she wrote and directed a documentary, No Woman, No Cry, that focuses on maternal health in the US, Bangladesh, Guatemala, and Tanzania. The film received a VH1 Do Something With Style Award and she continues to tweet, write, and compile other means of awareness. %26nbsp;

We know%26nbsp;celebs often use their fame--and pretty face--to spread the word on important causes.%26nbsp;But we admire how Christy's passion runs deep, making it feel a little bit more personal, and therefore a little bit more urgent for all of us. To learn more, visit EveryMotherCounts.com, donate, or choose other ways you can contribute this holiday season.

*image via whatgives.com

You're Invited: Women That Soar Awards

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 11:03:21 GMT

If there's anything Susan Posnick Cosmetics proves about female entrepreneurs, it's that they tend to put people first -- in savvy, inventive ways. So it's no surprise Susan's on the board of an organization that promotes and empowers other professional women. Women That Soar (WTS) is a 'positive media' platform that hooks sponsors and advertisers with women starting businesses and setting the trends of tomorrow, whether they've just earned their GED or are a few years into their careers. And Susan would like to invite you to the WTS Annual Awards.

This November 8th, WTS will honor the feats of a diverse group of working women -- and the long, wonderful, and sometimes messy journey it took to get them to where they are today. The 10 honorees are engaged in civic, health, entertainment, fashion, sports, business, and philanthropy work. Red carpet interviews, live entertainment, and most importantly, powerful personal stories will make for an inspiring night. A portion of the ticket's proceeds will also benefit Women Called Moses, an organization that helps Texan women and children who have suffered abuse, and the Memnosyne Foundation, that collaborates on scientific, economic, and health initiatives for cultural heritages and indigenous peoples.%26nbsp;

If you'll be in the Dallas area, make sure to buy tickets on WomenThatSoar.com or watch TV coverage on TXA 21 Sunday, December 9th from 7 to 9 PM and CBS 11, Sunday December 16th from 12:35 to 2:35 am. Save the date!

Coterie Promotion: SPC ColorEyeDefine Collection

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 10:58:28 GMT

We're thrilled to announce the newly established (and already addictive) beauty site Coterie.com is doing a limited-time offer of one of our favorite SPC products: ColorEyeDefine Pencils. For just $55, choose between two collections of pencils and a tweezer in an SPC signature mesh cosmetics bag.%26nbsp;

We love 'The Runway' collection for after hours (Sapphire Liner/Ametrine Shadow and Jet Liner/Moonstone Shadow) and 'The Real Life' collection for office hours (Bronze Liner/Copper Shadow and Amethyst Liner/Opal Shadow). But really--layer, mix, and match for a subtle or dramatic effect that suits you. Both the liner and shadows are tough enough to define, but soft enough to blend.%26nbsp;

Still not convinced? Coterie gives you a sneak peak with a 'Get the Look' breakdown from 'The Runway' collection -- six simple steps to gorgeous contouring in purple hues. And while you're on your way to checkout, don't forget to check out the 'Meet Susan Posnick' tab for a few of her simple secrets, preferred products, and biggest beauty regret (hint: everyone's favorite decade). The promotion ends November 9th, so get shopping.

Statement Making Headbands for Fall

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 09:55:10 GMT

Gone are headbands that would make Blair Waldorf ban us from the steps of the Met. This fall, headbands are understated--and most importantly, grownup. Make floppy bows a hand-me-down and indulge in fall's new favorites: chain head wraps, skinny headbands, or turbans.

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1. Chain Head wraps. Headdresses come in many styles, but this fall we're opting for chain head wraps that we'd imagine flappers wore in smokey speakeasies. The look doesn't work well post-blowout, so wear it with pin-straight, tousled, or pinned up hair.

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2. Skinny Headbands. Dress up any outfit by wearing a thin headband (especially over wide ones). And that doesn't mean they have to be solid-colored. We love them when they come in delicate details--and seem like jewelry, with pearl encrusting or tiny gold plating.

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3. Turbans. They may seem difficult to pull off, but they're more than worth it when you do. Try a turban headband in a unique print, worn with solid clothing. Turban headbands look best when you plan your outfit ahead of time. Like any head wrap, they accentuate the shape of your head, so leave the volume for another day.

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Love any of the items above? You can find them here!

Friday Faces: Ashley Judd

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 02:52:12 GMT

What celeb would you pick for President? We can't think of too many candidates (hmm, the credentials just don't match up), but we do think there's a few who could do public office. And before you say George Clooney, take a look at the resum%26#233; of our Friday Face, actress Ashley Judd. Judd first wooed us in Where the Heart Is and we've tuned into her other family-friendly films since. She was also nominated this year for an Emmy Award for 'Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie' thanks to her role in Missing. But her career as of late seems more Washington than Hollywood.%26nbsp;

Judd earned a Master in Public Administration from Harvard University. And she's been putting the degree to major use -- her philanthropy work would take a few pages to list (YouthAIDS and Women for Women International to name a few). And this fall, she's been advocating on behalf of the Democratic Party. Whether you lean left, right, or somewhere in between, you've got to admit she has the prowess and celeb-power to reel in an audience.

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And Judd isn't just outspoken on the political front. Earlier this year she ignited an online firestorm when she called out tabloid culture for being overly fixated on female celebs' looks. Here at SPC, we prefer the 'more than a pretty face' perspective when talking about celebs, who we admire for their beauty and talent. Judd may not be starring in any upcoming films -- and s he won't admit if she'll run for public office -- but she's got our vote for celebs we want to see more of.

*image via abc.net.au

Friday Faces: Zooey Deschanel

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 10:54:35 GMT

We've got a hunch that actress and singer-songwriter, Zooey Dechanel is a future classic beauty icon -- equivocal to the likes of Bardot and Hepburn. Her signature dark thick bangs, eyeliner, and girly dresses have already inspired copycat street style. And despite the manic pixie dream girl label, we think she should be given better credit for her quirk. Remember her breakout role as Anita in Almost Famous and her dry humor in Elf? Now she's getting nods from the Golden Globes for playing Jess in the delightfully funny, FOX Series New Girl.

So we're guessing you may not have heard these other fun facts about her:

-- Zooey admitted that she doesn't exactly have an interest in having kids--not just in the near future, but ever. In a culture that's obsessed with documenting celebrity motherhood and still seems stuck on it being the defining point of a woman's life, we love the fact that Zooey isn't afraid to say it's not on her to-do list.

--If you loved Zooey's voice in Elf, check out her American indie duo band, She %26amp; Him.

--Zooey co-founded the site HelloGiggles.com, a space where young woman, teenagers, and yes, even pre-teens can engage in fun and thoughtful discussion, with a strict take-mean-comments-elsewhere policy. In fact, Zooey recently addressed the phenom of Internet meanness at The Hollywood Reporter's annual comedy actress roundtable. "It's still this frontier [the Internet], she said, "this weird Old West, like everyone shooting each other; it's just with words." Online bullying comes in lots of forms, and it's serious. We hope she continues to speak up about this issue that's often overlooked.

Even though we'll have to wait for the next season of New Girl, we're lucky we've got plenty of ways to keep up with Zooey in the mean time.

Trend Alert: Makeup, Workout?

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 01:32:16 GMT

Wearing makeup to the gym? We know what you're thinking. But despite what people want us ladies to believe, wearing makeup to work out doesn't scream superficial. People wear it for all sorts of reasons (ahem, there's these little annoying marks called acne and hyper-pigmentation that lots of women have). A little cover-up may not seem necessary, but it can make people with any skin condition feel comfortable.

So it may make sense that a whopping 7 out of 10 women in the United Kingdom wear some form of makeup while working out, according to a poll by UK retailer, Asda. But we're curious what exactly they wear that doesn't result in caking or a breakout the next day. Luckily, SPC offers breathable and healthy coverage. Our COLORFLO mineral foundation is light, feels weightless on your skin, and works for a wide variety of tones. Like all of SPC, it's made of a natural ingredients that won't irritate sensitive skin or clog your pores--and yes, it's tough enough to work while you're working out.

If you're not into being bare-faced while exercising--or doing whatever--remember that we've got you covered with COLORFLO.

Friday Faces: Brenda Strong

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 10:16:20 GMT

But for all her complicated lives onscreen, Strong keeps things peaceful off as a yoga instructor, a fun fact you maybe didn't know. We're especially excited that she's got a book about yoga and women's experiences in the works. The first season of Dallas just wrapped up, but you can still catch a few episodes airing on dallastnt.com.

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*image via buddytv.com

Southern Style Series: Franki Durbin

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 11:23:19 GMT

For those of you who don't know, Susan Posnick Cosmetics is based in Dallas -- home to ranch-running cowboys, grill-smoked barbecue, and believe it or not, impeccable southern style.%26nbsp; For the next few posts, we'll reflect on our roots and feature some Dallas fashion bloggers to give us the lowdown on all things southern and fabulous.

Our spotlight today is on Franki Durbin, a definite triple threat in Dallas, she's a luxury lifestyle blogger, stylist, and designer of Demitasse, which specializes in chic nurseries.

How would you describe southern style or specifically, Dallas style?
As a recent transplant to the Dallas area, I can see the sartorial landscape with fresh eyes. Let me tell you with certainty that Dallas girls LOVE fashion and live as though it is their personal responsibility to look and feel fabulous every day of he week. This is definitely a "fab dress and even more fab heels" city. Whether it be a restaurant opening or a simple night out with the girls, you should expect to see Jimmy Choos, Louboutins, DVF dresses and the perfect clutch (most likely a Chanel) on every female at the fete.

This is not to say that the old perception of Dallas is true. We are a city of blondes with bouncy hair, but you won't see overly hair sprayed do's of the past. Modern hair is healthy, bouncy and shiny with movement. Girls with gorgeous tresses (and a pose to match) are consistently those scene in the "who, what, when, where" photos of local style magazines. Do note that many a Dallas socialite has her hairstylist on speed dial. Yes, hair is all a part of the "package" when it comes to local style.

Color is also important when it comes to fashion. We are a city that readily embraces a wild Pucci print, a bright pink YSL platform shoe and a handbag worthy applause. Because of this, DVF is a go-to brand as are popular labels Trina Turk, Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch, Milly and others. But don't underestimate our appreciation for lesser known labels and up and coming designers. Dallas is a city that loves it's own talent and celebrates its local design celebs (there are many) just as much as they rush to Neimans to attend trunk shows and VIP events that showcase today's most famous designers.

In short: Dallas loves fashion and never turns down an opportunity to dress for the occasion.%26nbsp;

What do you think distinguishes it from other areas in the US?
It's feminine. Unabashedly, unapologetically feminine. Southern women - specifically Dallas women - want to look like women. They take terrific care of themselves and don't think twice about a man opening doors for her. It's expected. From thick lashes to perfect pedicures, it's been refreshing to see a city full of friends who embrace their inner "girly" girl just like you.

Any looks for summer?
It's hot in Texas. Even more so in the city. For summer days here in Dallas it's all about the maxi dress, pretty shoes, oversized sunglasses and noteworthy earrings. We love our jewelry and are not afraid to rock out the gold and the baubles. Accessories really are a girl's best friend.

Hair is in an easy (but chic) up-do or worn in long, loose waves. It's a great look that works for most body types and - although undeniably comfortable - is pulled together. It's a versatile look that will take you from shopping to pool party yet looks good enough to assure you a premier table at one of%26nbsp; the city's many posh outdoor patios for early evening sips and nibbles. This is the perfect summer look for day.

Southern Style Series: Genniva Bruce

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 11:24:31 GMT

10 Tips for Savvy Packing

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 11:11:10 GMT

You might be touring Asia, relaxing on the French riviera or roughing it under the stars. Wherever wanderlust takes you this summer, savvy packing is essential. Do you really need that extra blouse? Will you really wear red lipstick on that camping trip? (well, maybe some of you will!) We've got 10 tips for savvy packing -- the more room, the more souvenirs.

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1. Roll your clothes in luggage to maximize space. But beware: this method doesn't necessarily ensure less weight when your baggage goes through the flight check-in.

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2. Bring white. Blouses, tee-shirts, scarves. It goes with anything.

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3. Be practical with footwear. Comfortable sneakers or flats are a must and one pair of stylish shoes is all you need depending on the location and length of your trip.

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4. Don't pack your entire vanity! True travelers adhere to a "less is more" policy. Choose the three or four items you wear the most. We recommend the usual -- like mascara and foundation, but also dual products. SPC's COLORDUO double-sided lip pencil gives you both a deep red and everyday pink. And COLOREYEDEFINE in 'Platinum Liner/Gold Shadow' or 'Bronze Liner/Copper Shadow' will make you reconsider packing all those extra eyeshadows.

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5. Keep your toiletries to a minimum and buy minis. You won't regret this. You can find anything from portable hairdryers to petite shampoos and they even make mini hair straighteners these days, just in case you were wondering.

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6. Traveling by backpack? Plan your outfits beforehand and mix and match about six plus pieces or whatever you can squeeze in. If you know your headed for a holiday in the sun, pack according to your itinerary. Two sundresses for beach days, comfortable and casual for a day of sightseeing, etc.

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7. Buy items when you get there. A mistake we often make is thinking we're spending the next six months in another universe; be realistic and suss out what items you can buy when you get there.

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8. Make your luggage stand out. Whether it's a bright tag or colorful string, attach it to your bags to avoid waiting for the luggage belt to loop around again.%26nbsp;

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9. Make a packing list of all your items. Triple check it.

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10. Don't forget hand sanitizer, tissue (or wipes), and face moisturizer. Because no matter where you go, you're going to need them.

Press %26 Print: Where We've Been Lately

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 04:18:22 GMT

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This has been a busy summer for Susan Posnick! We've been traveling around the globe celebrating our line's expansion into new stores %26amp; cities. but you might have seen us around a few other places.

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Most recently, Susan's Brush On Block was featured on the CW30's Beach Bag Essentials. Check out the feature here and you'll see us at the 4:00 mark.

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Nail Art: A Must or Making Beauty Complicated?

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 11:25:53 GMT

Zooey Deschanel recently tweeted this nautical manicure.%26nbsp;

Jewel encrusted. Color-block. Art deco inspired. These may sound like a season of runway trends, but they're actually fashion for your fingers. Celebs from Rihanna to Lauren Conrad are nail art regulars, wearing anything from delicately painted objects to funky stickers with their manicures.%26nbsp;

The word art is included in its name for a reason -- you can find thousands of intricate designs and their how-to's online. There are Tumblr pages, websites, and Youtube videos just for nail art worshipers. And there's no doubt those on Pinterest have seen one of the hundreds of boards dedicated to inspiration examples.%26nbsp;

Low-maintenance? Then nail art might not be your idea of beauty time well spent. Though it's all for fun, is it too complicated? We'll let you be the judge. Would you, or do you, try nail art? Or does it seem more like a guilty-pleasure hobby?

But we do have one DIY the minimalist and nail art addict could agree on. Choose your favorite clear nail top coat and glitter nail polish (in any color you like). Lightly paint the top of your nails with the glitter, lessening the sparkle as you make your way down. Top it off with the top coat and you've got yourself ombre-like nail art and beauty made simple.%26nbsp;