Beat the Blahs of Winter

Personal appointments and errands took me all over the place this week. Favorite looks were seen on 5th Ave and in Harlem.

Although it's been bitterly cold, I loved the individual display of style and beauty from my fellow New Yorkers. Even layered in coats, hats and scarves, I saw their "signature" shine through. Trekking to 34th Street, I noticed a woman clad in stark black with a burgundy patent leather carryall. Her makeup was simple, yet eye-catching: a vibrant rich lip color and a warm blush...just enough to fight off the winter blahs! I recommend a creamy bordeaux shade like NARS Viridiana for $24 or a sheer wine lipstick with a bit of shine like Benefit's Silky Finish Lipstick in Ms. Behavin for $18 with a soft blush. Both products are at Sephora.

While enjoying lunch in Harlem, I saw signature style at its best. A woman with a short blonde natural, a funky sheered mink, pony hair tote and oversized shades came in for cocktails and coversation. She combined minimal makeup with plenty of confidence and swagger. If your wardrobe includes eclectic pieces, take the minimalist approach to makeup. Stick with a nude look. Bobbi Brown makes tons of nude lip sticks like Pink Buff Creamy Lip Color for $22 or Naked Rich Color Gloss. You choose from eight shades at $20 each: the soft shine of a gloss linked with the luxurious feel of a balm. Rim eyes with a chocolate liner or shadow, brush bronzer onto cheeks and coat lashes with mascara. Easy and pretty!

KISSABLE LIP TIPS! You can apply raw honey to dry chapped lips since it hydrates naturally. Or you can dip a soft toothbrush into a mixture of brown sugar and olive oil. Gently rub the scrub over your mouth to remove dry skin. Rinse and coat lips with a balm before using lip color.