The Best Red Lipsticks - Not for Wallflowers

There's nothing like a fabulous red lipstick to bring out your inner femme fatale.

Note: Wallflowers may experience anxiety followed by chronic attention. If worn daily, it could lead to addiction.

Here's some of my favorites:

1) Audace Allure by Chanel, $30.

2) Red Sinner by Lipstick Queen, $18.


3) Gala 21, Rouge G by Guerlain $45.


4) Cerise by Chantecaille, $28.


5) Rich Red Signature by Estee Lauder, $19.50

Light and Heavy? It's Possible

What a dichotomy. I can't believe how a fragrance that's inspired by Kodho Wood; the ancient Japanese art of incense appreciation, can be dramatic and fresh at the same time.

As I inhale it on my wrist, there is a juxtaposition that takes place in my mind. I drift back to a home I once entered in London, where a similar unforgettable scent of rich oud (also a wood incense) filled the opulently furnished rooms with gold leaf ceilings. In the same breath I'm transported to the scent of delicate water lilies (one of my favorite flowers) and the freshest lotus blossom drifting on crystal clear water. The contrasting combination is simply divine.

Warning: you'll be hooked.

Lotus Blossom & Water Lily cologne by Jo Malone, 100ml, $100.

Author Gina Nahai is Coming to Newport Beach!

She captivated me with Moonlight on the Avenue of Faith and now I can't wait to start reading Caspian Rain.

There should be more events like this in OC...Book lovers, let's make sure there are.


Click on image to enlarge. Mark your calendars!

In The Red - Must Have Red Lipsticks

Click on image to read. As seen in Coast Magazine April 2009.