BEWARE SHE HAS A SELFIE STICK AND IS ON THE GO WITH IT!In another WORLD she is known as THEIR FAIRY GODMOTHER!
Look at Me Look at Me!
Maybe a little MORE to the Right!BUT do LOOK at my ARMANDI Clematis!
AT what AGE did YOUR lipstick start to BLEED?I feel I am a BIT Too YOUNG for this to be happening!
Wish I had that lipstick UNDER control!
More PHOTOS.
Shows MY great FAKE PEARL collection.
THE REAL ME…….withOUT the HEADBAND that SCREAMS SPRING!
Off to EXERCISE but had to show YOU my new HEADBANDS!
It was COLD outside so I wrapped up in a STOLE that THE BASKETBALL LADY gave ME!Don’t you LOVE how I give MY FRIENDS NEW NAMES?
This has GOT to be the BEST PHOTO ever of MY EYES!TO THINK I took it with MY SELFIE WAND!
I do not THINK about COLORS……….REALLY!This JUST HAPPENS!
LOADS of TRIBUTARIES HERE on LA FACE!
SMALL EYES………I am NOT complaining I am OBSERVING!
The rocks around my neck could fill the TRIBUTARIES!
I am doing this for a VISUAL as I want to SEE the changes that take PLACE within the coming YEAR!All of a sudden I have NOTICED a SHIFT.
Don’t get me WRONG.
I adore MY GREY FLECKS of hair.
The wrinkles around MY eyes ADD to ME , MYSELF and I.
I could DO withOUT the lipstick BLEEDING, but I can live with that.I have dealt with MY share of PAIN and DISAPPOINTMENT.
I recently LEARNED the SECRET of a lip liner and COLORING IN YOUR LIP area first!
I also NOTE. Out of ALL my LIPSTICKS and I have way TOO many…….WELL, NOT as many as MY DEAR FRIEND SANDRA, but I do have a FEW!
That ESTEE LAUDER of ALL brands tends NOT to BLEED on ME!I wonder if WE have ESTEE to THANK for that or HER gorgeous GRANDDAUGHTER, AERIN?
I ALWAYS considered ESTEE LAUDER to be an OLD LADIES make up line!But as I was searching for the PERFECT orange/red lip color for a dear Friends BIRTHDAY who happens to FALL on VALENTINES DAY I found HER color in the ESTEE section.I also found ONE for ME with a blue/red glow.
I GUESS I have ARRIVED to that Older Woman, but I dONOT feel OLD in my head.My Body is telling me OTHERWISE, but I still feel like I am 18.
I was MOST LIKELY telling HER to make the signature out to LA CONTESSA!
She must have been THINKING…….this is a NUT CASE!
AERIN LAUDER granddaughter of ESTEE!
Do you think she has an OUNCE of MAKE~UP on?
Looks pretty a la NATURAL to ME!
What LIPSTICKS do YOU like the MOST and WHY?
Smell…….Vessel…….Colors…..
Tell ME EVERYTHING!
stephanie thonet says
wonderful photos of you contessa!! who cares about wrinkles! the importance when you get older is not to look young, but happy!! (being attractive helps, too) 🙂
i noticed you mentioned the lip-liner 🙂 have you tried it yet?
your headbands are simply scrumptious and suit you sooo well!!!
xxx
contessa says
YES!I have tried YOUR WAY………I forgot to mention that!
A LIP LINER……….then a GLOSS.The LOOK was STUNNING on YOU!I gave it a GO the other day and REALLY enjoyed the RESULTS!
My problem is I like those DARKER SHADES…………on me.However, I think for the summer time I may DO as YOU DO!Lip Pencil and some GLOSS………….
How many times a day do you apply?
XX
mithra ballesteros says
You are a beautiful woman, not ‘despite’ your wrinkles but ‘because of’ your wrinkles. BTW, I hope to emulate your hair, in another year or so… am gradually growing out my gray, underneath. Wish there was an easy graceful way for brunettes to go natural after coloring. Favorite lipstick is a new one I was gifted at a blog conference. It’s glo-minerals suede matte crayon. It has a built in sharpener and it stays on so nicely. I top it with my favorite sticky gloss, Buxom.
contessa says
You are SO kind!
I like the REVLON CRAYON………..it stays on all day for me and NO BLEEDING either!
BUXOM………….may need to GO find that JUST for the NAME!
THANK YOU!
XX
Lisa says
Old age comes to us all. But only a few are blessed with joie de vivre and savoir faire. Oh, and flower crowns:).
contessa says
CanNOT imagine who THAT could BE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hang in there with your Mom……….I’m right behind you in that stage of LIFE!
XX
Taste of France says
Not at all! As I told my mother, who died suddenly and unexpectedly in November at age 90, not everybody gets to be old. Plus she had her wits to the end. I’d rather have my brain than my looks.
Laura Lyman says
Yes, I have to agree with you, most emphatically. At your age, it must be considered premature bleeding of the lip line. Currently, my favorite lipstick colors are by Jane Iredale: MILAN for a natural daytime look and THERESA, for dramatic evening wear. In addition, I have a LUXURY GLOSS for a top coat that is shimmery, named, SKINNY DIP. UH-OH…Is the use of capital letters contagious?
Your friend,
Laura
contessa says
I HOPE SO!!!!!!!!!!
IS THERESA RED?Where do I find these at SEPHORA?
LOVE that YOU found me HERE!!!!!!!!!
Please CALL and GO for an AURA READING!Then lets have a coffee or lunch!Keep in the LOOP!
XX
Katie Clooney says
HELLO dear CONTESSA!!! LOVE all your beautiful SELFIES! A hundred years ago, I worked for ESTEE LAUDER and loved it. I LOVE makeup and will FOREVER. AERIN may have left her MAKEUP at home along with her SMILE!!!! xxoo
contessa says
YES!
I think SHE was a little tired from her trip out WEST.Plus, I found out in the seminar that HER sister lives in SAN FRANCISCO!SO, I think she may have had a LATE NIGHT!!!!!!CouldNOT possibly been ME as I was ever so polite and FUN!
YOU WORKED for ESTEE………….in the wholesale part or at a GORGEOUS DEPARTMENT STORE?Do You know I worked for GUCCI…………or I should say the DISTRIBUTOR for the UNITED STATES and CANADA.Between YOU and Me we have it COVERED…….MAKE~UP and HANDBAGS………….all a GIRL could need!AND HUSBANDS WHO COOK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!XX
Fran says
Cara Contessa, you are just too funny!! Your flowery, poofy head pieces so remind me of my mother’s beach/bathing cap she wore EVERY TIME on the beach while swimming way back in the mid 60’s – look just like yours- except I am sure it was made of some waterproof material. Too bad they don’t make those kind of bathing caps. any more – just perfect to look at and would cover a lot of thick hair so well!. Also, I love your hair- please do not color it and yes, you have beautiful eyes, too!! As for lipstick bleeding – I think it started happening sometime way back in my mid to late 40’s – it was the weirdest thing – just happened one day to the next?! There are cream products that you can apply on your lips and over the lips up into the skin around the mouth before you apply the lipstick that actually prevents bleeding. I think the one I bought is from Clarins? I do like some of their lipsticks, too. Anyway, happy Selfie Snapping!!
contessa says
I remember those swim caps…….MY AUNTS used them quite often in PALM SPRINGS and MEXICO!
I will NEVER color the hair………..let the hairdresser add some red high-lights for awhile then I said ENOUGH of that!She was horrified I was not going to cover up the GRAY.IS it GRAY or GREY would someone PLEASE straighten me out!I do not think I ever learned the DIFFERENCE!
I have tried the cream product from LAURA M. I do believe……..it does not WORK on me!
I am getting BETTER with every SNAP……………….but I think this is ENOUGH for the MOMENT!
THANKS SO MUCH for your input……….APPRECIATE all that you have written here.
XX
Doré @ Burlap Luxe says
A BEAUTIFUL NUT CASE ,!!!!!
Oh dear Contessa, as for the lip bleeding I had issues when in my 20’s some how
the lipstick leaves the lips for various reasons…be it a very expensive Channel or a cheep Cover Girl !
Get a transparent lip-Liner to hold that lipstick in place. I tend to put some lipstick on and wipe it all off to then reapply,
It seems to then coat the lip and stain it with colour and hold the lipstick in place.
As for the beauty here you create, and never without a topic to discuss its your charm, wit, and beauty we notice, not the lips 🙂
Wear those lips proudly…. you deserve every bit the boldness life hands you.
Selfie stick, oh no what have out….I think we are going to see a whole other side of you.
See you and your beautifully wild self soon.
Xx
Dore
contessa says
I like that PUT ON Then WIPE AWAY!Thats what I am doing with the pencil basically lining then coloring in between the lines to have a BASE for that LIPPY STUFF!I find it does stay “IN PLACE” better……………BUT I SHALL TRY YOUR VERSION this afternoon!!!
Better a NUT CASE then a BORE……………..
YOU are ALWAYS SO GENEROUS AND KIND……………
I better HOP over your way and see what YOUR UP TOO on your BLOG as I still do not get your notifications along with a HANDFUL of others………does anyone else have this problem in the blog world?
XX
Charlotte Des Fleurs says
Dearest Contessa, I am a bit your senior and do NOT have a problem with lipstick bleeding. Here is how: Lipliner as suggested above followed by a lipstick brand that STAINS the lips (like MAC) followed by a lip plumper. I use Palladio from Sally Beauty just in the middle of the lips, not out near the edges. I also have a dermatologist friend who does 4 little BOTOX injections just above the Vermillion Border and on either side of Philtrum Ridges. This smooths the wrinkles and rolls the lip up slightly to make it appear bigger and more youthful. It is El Cheapo, no Trout-pout and it does NOT paralyze your lips! She is a gorgeous, genius sweetheart who teaches at UCSD and I will give you her name if you like.
contessa says
NO BOTOX………THANK YOU VERY MUCH!Even if my UNCLES company INVENTED IT!
MAC is THE LIPSTICK I have the MOST problems with and I love their colors and the compact case and the PRICE sure beats a CHANEL lipstick………WE can get TWO for the price of ONE!
I am CERTAIN if SHE is a FRIEND of YOURS she is BEAUTIFUL…………..but I’m NOT TOUCHING THAT STUFF.I want to see my wrinkles as I think it looks SO MUCH better then the ones that have a HELPING HAND as WE ALL KNOW THEY had a HELPING HAND and to me that is WORSE.
THANK YOU for ALL your recommendations and I hope to meet YOU one day at THE FRENCH BASKETEERS…………….XX
Charlotte Des Fleurs says
Well, avoid the HELPING HAND if you will. However, the ones who have had help from a real artist do not look like it. YES, I hope to finally meet you at Andrea’s one of these days and soon!. And Penelopi Bianchi is right about the neck lift! Would you believe she has had one? She looks wonderful and natural because she had it done by a pro.
My dear, you are a gardener like me so you are out in the sun a lot. Get an IPL facial every 3 to 4 months. It corrects sun damage, removes “age spots” and reduces wrinkles by stimulating collagen production.
If you must “go natural” then use a Walnut scrub followed by a face cream made from Zinc oxide and Pumpkin Powder. I can help you get this things if you like.
As the French say, ” A face is a woman’s fortune.”
Smiles from Charlotte
Catherine says
Fabulous each and every one…Gorgeous You.
I love Chanel lipsticks, the neutral shades they just look softer on my skin now, especially as I no longer have my brunette hair…my favourite photo of you here is the 5th one you look beautifully, softly, regal.
Have a great week. xx
contessa says
I like that ONE TOO!
I cannot imagine YOU a BRUNETTE!YOU ARE The BEIGE WOMAN from TOP to TOE!
I WILL and YOU DO THE SAME!!!
XX
Sandra Sallin says
I adore your selfies. So much humor. I agree, never dye your hair. You’re divine the way you are Not impressed with Aerin’s non smile. Loved yours. My makeup love at the moment is Kevyn Aucoin. Love the feel of his lipsticks. I also always use lip pencil all over my lip like lipstick. Don’t wear gloss because ai think it looks kinda silly on a 75 year old women. Keep on with your selfies. So much fun.
contessa says
NEVER HEARD of HIM……………where do YOU BUY THAT PRODUCT?
DO TELL PLEASE!!
I don’t wear gloss either……………I feel the same way you do.BUT Then I again I feel 18 in my head ………and I know YOU do TOO!Shall we give it a WHIRL?!!
XX
Loree says
I love your selfies. You have such a wonderful smile and beautiful eyes. I have been colouring my hair since I was 30 (or even before that, I cannot remember). Women go grey very early in my family but then we tend not to get so many lines on our faces, which is unusual because the sun wreaks heaps of damage to the skin. I guess you can;’t have it all. So yes, I do have to colour my hair otherwise I would look 20 years older. I don’t really have a favourite make-up line. Anything goes right now, although I am sure that will change with time.
contessa says
THATS BECAUSE YOU HAVE ISLAND SKIN!!!!!!!!Plus, you know how to stay out of the burning SUN I would imagine.I did NOTE when I lived in EUROPE they have a better sense of HOW TO SUNBATH then US AMERICANS…………..We are out there at noon with baby oil, etc etc………….Hopefully, not anymore, but in my DAY YES!!XX
Laura Lyman says
I buy the Jane Iredale lipsticks at Marci’s Skin Care in Walnut Creek. Located right across the street from the Walnut Creek Safeway near Nordstroms. It is the oldest building in Walnut Creek, it has a teal blue awning. Marci does fantastic skin care, try a facial, you will glow even more! The lipstick color Theresa is indeed a nice dark red, might look good on you! What fun to see you at the health club! Best Regards…
contessa says
THANK YOU for the TIP!
I know EXACTLY where that would be!
I will check it out or better yet you can take me there after we have lunch once you have your AURA READ!
XX
Penelope Bianchi says
Brava!! You are gorgeous and I need one of those crowns! Of all things; I LOST my crown with the swan! At that concert with Paul McCartney! How on earth!
XXOO
contessa says
I made YOU a white GORGEOUS ONE That the PRODUCER of NORMA RAE wore at YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY!GO DIG IT OUT!!!!!!!!Then send me a PHOTO!
XO
Taste of France says
If I looked as good as you going to exercise, I would quit exercising. If you came into my gym class, I would back out with my tail between my slovenly legs. I look atrocious when I go to the gym. If not before, then certainly after, so why bother before?
Those headbands are glorious. More people should wear them, but then, I guess we wouldn’t appreciate them as much.
As for “tributaries,” I was a “geriatric” mother (yes, that is the medical term!) at age 43, and am paying the price years later, because I went and procreated after my skin had lost the ability to bounce back. Quite aside from the abdominal elasticity problem, there is the lingering habit of sleeping on my left side, as they counsel pregnant women to do. Thus my “tributaries” are draining toward the left! Try as I might to sleep on my back (and father of the beloved child doesn’t appreciate my back-sleeping because it’s said I snore), I awake on my left side, with my hands smooshed up against my face, digging those tributaries ever deeper.
At least the kid was worth it. Totally.
contessa says
ABSOLUTELY, THE KID WAS and is WORTH every line, wrinkle and TRIBUTARY!
LUCKY YOU………BOY or GIRL?
AND THANK YOU SO MUCH……………..YOU MUST WEAR LIPSTICK TO CLASS. It will make YOU preform BETTER!!I KNOW from EXPERIENCE!
XX
Shireen says
Contessa! Beautiful pictures of you!!! And the flowers! Looking forward to more spring selfies of gorgeous you and your gorgeous garden! At the ripe ‘ole age of 57 I have found my “give me strength” red. It was recommended by a ‘bold’ older friend from Marin, and is called Dubonnet Amplified by MAC – smells like chocolate to me. Definitely a dark red with blue undertones. A little chap stick (Nivea or whatever was handed out at the last boat show) underneath, then one swipe of Dubonnet on the bottom lip – purse the lips and off I go with Jeffrey – Happy as a clam! Xo’s to you and Giampiero and happy spring! P.S. am also a fan of lip pencil with gloss on top!
contessa says
LOVE THE NAME………will check it out!Want to meet me at NORDSTROM’s and get a COFFEE?If that is a YES, wear the lipstick…………..XX
Shireen says
Yes! I will send you an email to meet up!
annie vanderven says
You look absolutely fabulous. Vibrant, alive and with a great sense of humor, the rest is just flotsam and jetsam, never mind.
Annie v.
contessa says
I learned TWO KNEW WORDS!!!!!!!!
THANK YOU!
XX
bonnie groves poppe says
First: Avoid lipstick bleed by not wearing lipstick, has worked for me for over 50 years …
Second: Are those peonies in what we used to call a “hat”?
Third: Yes, your armandii is beyond beautiful.
Fourth: That poor girl looks very frightened.
Fifth: There is no fifth.
bonnie in provence
contessa says
BUT I LIKE IT…………
YES,glued on a headband!Then I usually put the band around a straw hat!But this was MORE of MORE!
THANK YOU or rather MERCI!
I think she was exhausted………NEW YORK to SAN FRAN…….then family etc etc….
Keep it coming I like these questions!
XX
Penelope Bianchi says
SHE LOOKS MORE THAN FRIGHTENED. I AM FRIGHTENED FOR HER.
contessa says
VIA EMAIL:
You are so beautiful and love love all of the hats! Thanks for sharing!
anita@letshavelunch says
What a fun post Elizabeth…………as only you know how to do!!!
The best photos are of you wearing a white crown, next to that stunning white clematis, topped off by your blue top. Yes, I’ll share blue with you anytime!!!!
Do you know I dreamed of you last night? I came to San Fran to visit YOU!!!!
You were wearing your red opera coat and driving a tractor…….TRUE!!!
Natio is my favourite lipstick brand. Australian and not tested on animals or has any animal products in it………I’m sure you’re not surprised.
My favourite colour in their range is Damasc.
Off to Jindi my darling.
Let’s talk soon
Ciao Bella xx
contessa says
I LOVE your VISION of ME!YOU know that could VERY well be the case!What a SHOOT That would be…………ITALIAN husband owns a BACKO that could stand in for a TRACTOR!!!
If YOU make your way HERE I will drop EVERYTHING…………….
Your photos of VUE lately have been STUNNING……….
ANYONE need a B&B in AUSTRALIA contact ME and I will put YOU in contact with ANITA!
XX
Heather in Arles says
Look at all of these comments! Everyone agrees on what a beauty you are…and a stylish one at that!
So happy to see Bonnie here, she is amazing and so true to herself…just like you are!
Bisous
H
contessa says
When WE ask QUESTIONS on certain topics WE get answers!!!I need to write down ALL of them and head out to DISCOVER and PLAY!I am LOVING this feedback!!!
DO YOU wear lipstick?WHAT COLOR?
XO
Linda says
Dear Contessa,
I have found a cool solution to the lip feathering. MAC cosmetics makes a “Primer in a pot” product that comes in various colors,
but I prefer the nude. I put it on my eye lids and lips. It keeps the lids from creasing and the lips from feathering. Works for 12 hours.
Yours truly,
Linda,
(one of The French Basketeer’s many friends…met you at one, or 2 of her awesome parties )
contessa says
OFF TO BUY PRIMER in a POT!
THANKS LINDA!!!
Of course, I remember YOU……..always in the KITCHEN helping OUT YOU ARE!!
Leah Fuller says
Look out La Contessa has a selfie stick =) I too love the pic of you next to your amazing clematis. Alas when you are single at our age one must color they’re hair esp if it’s dark. Blondies have it easier to blend in the gray. I have been using Bobbie Brown -soft rose -for years and love it, it’s creamy and never bleeds( too light in color for you). I have an YSL bright orangy red and have to use a lip liner so it won’t run =( I’m going to try Linda’s trick with the MAC primer.
Funny I was clicking around in Instagram today and happened upon Heather’s @Lost in Arles post about Paris and she mentioned you and Ellie. Clicking some more I was sad to hear that Ellie is in care in Paris.
contessa says
YES,Ellie is in a facility in PARIS……….BUT if you READ her BLOG she is in GOOD SPIRITS.She is a TUFFY……………and will whip those people into shape before they know what hits them!She will probably have the entire HOUSE on GREEN JUICING.She is closer to her family now and I think she will have better CARE in the CITY of LIGHTS!DO go read her BLOG POST…………. HAVE SOME DECORUM.She writes a BRILLIANT BLOG!
XX
Penelope Bianchi says
She does indeed! I am praying hard! She has already outlived all predictions….she is the most darling girl……I adore her. I met her when she had to close her divine store here…..full of all my favorite things I have ever seen under one roof!
Catherine says
You’re so gorgeous and such a classic beauty. I’m jelly! And the bleeding lips. Honey, if my lips bled any more I would need a tampon to attach to my face! I cannot recall the exact year the excessive bleeding started buy, I’ll be 61 next month and it’s been less than ten years. You know what I do? I take plain, original Chapstick and I use it as a blur for the lines above my lip and my crow’s feet. Then I very thinly brush a bit of light concealer over my lip and then I line my lip in a nude pencil then I apply lipstick then top it off with gloss. I’m a HUGE fan of Covergirl 24/7 lip color because it stays put all day. I had a makeover on Saturday and added Mally Beauty lipstick to my collection, which was a good thing since I cooked and baked my face too long previously: http://atypical60.com/2016/03/13/done-with-baking-and-cooking-my-face-happy-to-say-im-medium-rare/
That being said, I have to tell you, I’m in love with your floral chapeaus. I want all of them!
You wear your hats and lipstick well!
contessa says
YOU ARE A NUT as WELL as ME!Loved your post and YOU LOOKED MOLTO GLAMOROUS.LOved how the FRENCH hubby grew up in PARIS and vacationed in ST.T and you grew up in NEW YORK and vacation in NEW YORK.WHat a TEAM you TWO must BE!
Thank You for your COMMENT!May I ask how YOU found ME?
XX
Catherine says
It was through That’s Not My Age” another wonderful blog! Happy to meet you darling!!!!!!
Catherine says
Ugh. I’m answering on my phone and those question marks s/b stars! I hate iPhones!
contessa says
The EMOJI”s or however you spell that word do not WORK here……I changed them to EXCLAMATION MARKS!!!!!!!!!OKAY……..VA BENE………..HOPE SO!!!!
DID YOU READ HER BOOK?
LOVED IT!
XX
contessa says
CATHERINE, I have been using the CHAPSTICK around the LIP AREA for FOUR DAYS NOW!WHAT A DIFFERENCE!
THANK YOU SO MUCH!
YOU SOLVED MY PROBLEM!
XX
Sunday says
Contessa, you are sooo funny!
And…well…I think delicious! is the word…missing you…
contessa says
DELICIOUS………..I like that!
Are you settled in your abode?Got all boxes un-packed?
Check in with me………..I gave you a tag on Instagram YESTERDAY!!
XO
Jen says
You are too fabulous! I love my lipsticks. I love ballerina pale or stripper red: no room at all for moderation.
contessa says
OH YES, JEN……………..I GET THIS SO VERY MUCH!
NO MODERATION what so ever!
XX
Susie Nolan says
I adore Tom Ford Lipsticks, does not dry out . Fav is true coral I love Maybelline lip gloss on top. I don’t use lip liner but need too. In fact I love all the Tom Ford range as colours divine. Loved the selfies you always look so chic, and not like a Barbie Doll. I love faces with character. Like Iris. Stay the way you are my friend xx
contessa says
SUSIE,
LIKE IRIS………….DONE DEAL!!
XX
Joy Moos says
I remember those swim caps on my Mother too……but your floral headdresses are THE BOMB!!
And the picture perfect of your eyes…simply riveting! As were all the rest! So clever to take your VERY OWN photos!!
contessa says
CLEVER or FULL of ONES SELF………….NOT certain I am totally there but for the SAKE of COMPARISON……..I DID IT!THANK YOU for this comment!
XX
Carmen M. says
I absolutely love lipstick and own around a 100 (not exaggerating) but right now I love the new lipsticks from BITE plus the lip stains from Kat Von D, they both stay on well. Also, I recommend the BITE primer and definer, it actually helps stop the bleeding, place it around your lipline before your lip liner and it really makes a difference.
contessa says
I think BITE was the FIRST lip Primer I tried……BUT guess WHAT?I had a REACTION to the lipsticks and the liners I LOVED the COLORS and EVERYTHING!Heard about BITE through A WELL STYLED LIFE………..at least Two years ago.It is a CANADIAN Product!
Thanks for your input!MOST APPRECIATIVE.
XX
contessa says
VIA EMAIL:
Ciao Contessa……..What a glamorous Hoot you are!!!
Where ooooh Where did you find those fabulous headbands???
I am in LOOOVE with the Tom Ford Lipstick……I always use MATT lipstick to keep from bleeding
& always put a little powder around the lips before you do the lip pencil. Then you put the lipstick.
Looking gorgeous!!
XX Brend
contessa says
WELL< LADIES PAY ATTENTION HERE AS THIS IS AN EX-SUPER MODEL telling us how it's DONE! BRENDA, I make the headbands...............want ONE? I like TOM and HIS lipsticks TOO Own a FEW!......ALWAYS MATTE. I will DON your powder and INSTRUCTIONS Tomorrow AM........will report in Tomorrow PM! XX THANK YOU!
Penelope Bianchi says
GREAT SUGGESTION! POWDER FIRST! I AM OLDER THAN ALL OF YOU!!! GOOD GRIEF!!!
Penelope Bianchi says
SPELLING LESSON…..
MATTE…..IT HAS AN E AT THE END!! MATTE LIPSTICKS….MATTE FINISH. E AT THE END. MATT IS NOT A WORD. MAT IS A PLACE MAT. MATTE!! SPELL CHECK FROM THE GEEZER!!!
contessa says
VIA EMAIL:
You look very glamorous.
Libby
contessa says
LIBBY,
I’m in my BACKYARD…….HOW can I be GLAMOROUS?YOU look upon ME from above……….I want YOU to learn how to leave a comment…….I will be up to give a LESSON WEDNESDAY!
XO
Jennifer says
You’re fabulous with that selfie stick!! It’s the most marvelous way to track our progress! The lines are encroaching everywhere in my face. I call it character!!! I only wear organic lipstick because we swallow so much of it in a year. Bleeding stinks so I use a wax pencil to stop it in its tracks 🙂 xxx
contessa says
WAX PENCIL…………where do we find that??!!!!
XX
Kathy L says
The selfie stick serves you well!
Right out of college many years ago, when I was trying to look older at work, the rep at the Lancome counter told me that darker lipsticks make you look older and lighter lipsticks make you look younger. I have followed her advice ever since. Now that I want to look younger, Bobbi Brown has some of my favorite soft colors.
contessa says
ALL my LIFE I have wanted to be OLDER……………..so, NO WONDER I like the dark lipsticks on me!But when I see the lighter ones on others I always think WOW!
I must TRY AGAIN………….will check out MADAME BOBBI!
MANY THANKS KATHY……..XX
PS.Did you hear ISABELLA ROSSELLINI is coming back to LANCOME!!They FIRED HER for being TOO OLD at the AGE of 40.Now want HER BACK!!!!!!!!!
SHE has AGED BEAUTIFULLY TOO!
Merisi says
Love love love love love love love love the Snow Queen in Primavera!
The first four selfie-stick photographs, they are unique, as if straight out of a fairytale!
Merisi says
Favorite lip gloss (I do not use lipstick):
YSL Rouge pour Couture glossy stain, Aquatic Fuchsia or Dewy Red
http://www.yslbeautyus.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-ysl-us-Site/en_US/Search-Show?q=lip%20gloss
contessa says
I LOVED This!I was just explaining the BAD PHOTO to the ITALIAN as he was complaining about the POOR quality of my photos……..I was telling him That was the SUN and I liked the over exposure as I was talking about being a FAIRY GODMOTHER!Kinda went with my theme……….then YOUR comment I read NEXT!
I laughed OUT LOUD.THANK YOU for that belly chuckle…………..and thank you for the LINKY!XX
contessa says
I HAVE THAT GLOSS!I got it as a SAMPLE when I had the MAKEOVER!!!
SIAMO EQUALLE!
XX
contessa says
VIA EMAIL:
I’ll tell you WHAT: YOU are TOO WONDERFUL for WORDS! YES!!!! EA
SAJ says
Let me preface this by saying I am not a makeup artist, and know very very very little about it. I lack a steady hand, so unless working for a John Waters film, I wouldn’t be able to deliver. But have you explored/tried a lip primer beneath your color? I have a friend who wears gorgeous Merlot (as in color, not alcoholic) stained lips often. It lasts all day. I once asked her how she manages that? She said a solid layer of primer–and of course, don’t forget the drag queen knowledge of letting it “bake” a few minutes before putting on the color.
I think a few lines are required to be a grande dame, no? I love headpieces and wish they were seen more often.
contessa says
YES, I have tried………
I have PLENTY of OPTIONS TO EXPLORE from MY READERS HERE!And to be honest I haven’t tried for along time the lip primer……..
This AM I am trying BRENDA’s method.CHAP STICK and powder………WE SHALL SEE!I may send YOU a PHOTO!
NOW,find out the MERLOT BRAND as that is MY COLOR!!!!!!!Or better yet have her comment HERE and tell me HER SECRETS………..
I BET I COULD FIND a DRAG QUEEN in the CITY!!!
THANK YOU MISTER STEPHEN you have been VERY HELPFUL!
XX.
Janey says
I just received my first post from you. How fun! Found you through Heather who I adore for so many reasons.
Looking forward to seeing more of your fun and glamorous posts in my in box. Janey
contessa says
Are YOU by CHANCE in CALIFORNIA?
Now, I’m UNDER pressure……NOT ONLY DO YOU KNOW HEATHER you except GLAMOUR from ME!I better get on the ball and get my next POST idea rolling!
THANK YOU for signing UP!
Any FRIEND of HEATHER’s is a FRIEND of MINE………………
XX
Penelope Bianchi says
I have just ordered that lip primer! all because of YOU!! Thank God for your comments! YOU ARE SUCH A STAR!!!! I forgot to compliment you on your Clematis!
YOWZERS!!!! Brava again!!!
I did find your headband…..even two?? Could it be? I may not even miss my favorite swan one!!
THANK YOU!!!!!
contessa says
I Ordered THE LIP PRIMER TOO!!!
Let’s compare NOTES in a couple of weeks!I used the chapstick (from ITALY!)over the wrinkles FIRST then I used Brenda’s method of powder……lip liner then the STICK.It worked pretty darn good yesterday!THANKS for the SPELLING Lesson!Did you FIX me on GRAY and GREY???Hope SO!
XO
Penelope Bianchi says
grey can be correctly spelled either way!!!
Graciela says
Wow! Brava a la Senora! What beautiful photos, beautiful hats, jewelry and style ! Eres una gran mujer con mucho estillo!!!
Not everyone can pull it off like you, YOU are one beautiful human being inside and out and Lord knows we need more like you in the world…..gran abrazo y saludos de tu Amiga, Please keep sharing your beautiful unique -fabulous photos. You made my day!
contessa says
SO,HAPPY I MADE YOUR DAY!YOU ALL have made MY DAY by all these VERY, VERY lovely COMMENTS……….YOU know bloggers get their MOMENTUM from the feedback and this is JUST THE BEST!!!
GRAZIE GRACIELA…………and I know thats NOT SPANISH!
GRACIAS……….that’s IT!
XX
Penelope Bianchi says
Contessa…..you spread great joy among the blogosphere! Your honesty, your love of beauty….your ability to create beauty …….who doesn’t love that? Your JOY especially….you find joy everywhere…and it really IS everywhere!
We are all so so lucky to have you in our inboxes!!
TAH DAH!!!!
You are La Contessa! The Queen of our inboxes!!!
Anita Rivera says
Good evening, beautiful and bold and courageous and fashionable CONTESSA! I love how you enjoy creating such beauty around you and in you. I haven’t had trouble yet with my lipstick bleeding, but a lipliner does help keep the lipstick on longer!
HAVE FUN!
contessa says
OH, LUCKY YOU!But when YOU do……ALL the ANSWER’s ARE HERE!
MERCI for LA VISTA………………I know you are ONE busy W O M A N!!!
XX
James Andrew says
Darling La Contessa,
Your selfie -portraits are absolute genius!!!
There is a very funny song- I have no selfie control – which you might get a giggle out of!
Much Love and All Best
JA
contessa says
YOU are SO KIND……………
I will try and find the song!THANKS FOR the heads UP!
I wish YOU and MISTER MC BEE a GRAND VACATION down SOUTH!
XX
cherie says
Such a FUN post Contessa! Love your flower crowns, do you make them? I know what you mean about still feeling 18, because I do too!! I guess that’s good because if we acted our exact age we would put ourselves in an old folks home.
Favorite lipstick??? I have no idea. I don’t think I have ever been satisfied with any of them. Oh wait there was one and it was the Lipstick Queen’s lipstick that she did for J.Crew, and ofcourse it was a limited edition, so no more!! If you find the perfect one please shout it from the rooftops.
XOXO
cherie
STYLE NUDGE
http://www.stylenudge.com
contessa says
YES< I make them as per the FYI on that BEARDSLEY"S BLOG!Do you want me to send YOU one?They are W O N D E R F U L around the brim of a HAT.............or as a CROWN. NO FAVORITE LIPSTICKS......................I think I will send you some to play with then. What colors SPEAK to YOU? XO
Mary Wallace Poole says
Dear Contessa,
The absolute best is Lise Watier Magnifix Lip Primer – no bleeding lips, believe me! A Canadian company available to order online – http://www.lisewatier.com/ca_en/makeup/lips/magnifix-lips-smoothing-long-lasting-primer.
Enjoy!
Mary
contessa says
Where is that VISA CARD……….off I GO and I will LET YOU KNOW!
THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!!!!
I THANK ALL of YOU who have HELPED me FIGURE This OUT!
XX
Penelope Bianchi says
DEAR LORDY! Were it not for you; we would not know that!!
BRAVA AGAIN! (I cannot copy your caps; it is hard enough for me to type!!!) (just kidding….I took typing because my mother made me.)!! Lucky me with that divine mother!!!
You even got a comment from a taxi in Seoul! Sheesh! I know a STAR when I see a STAR!!!!
YIKES!!! going to order that lip stuff right now!!!
foodiefan says
Just reading this in taxi in Seoul, Korea – well I’m in agreeance that Botox is definitely not the way to go!! The lines show character and a life lived well and besides you want to show joy, laughter, and sorrow. My favourite lipstick is Natio too like Anita though the one I use has just been discontinued so I’m in a dilemma as what to wear as I have nearly run out. If I am going out I do put the lip liner on and sometimes I cover my whole lip with it as it makes the lipstick stay and even if I chew it off it my lips still will have some stain on them. Love all your photos!! xo
contessa says
YOU are MY WOMAN on THE GO!I adored PENELOPE’s comment above!I thought what is SHE Talking ABOUT then it Clicked and I saw………….Penelope, she was just in JAPAN at COSTCO flipping BURGERS!!!I WILL LEAVE IT AT THAT!
NO, I better ADD she is a FOOD STYLIST EXTORDINAIRE……..she knows how to make SPAGHETTI look SEXY!Married to a WONDERFUL MAN from AUSTRALIA who makes BURGER BUNS with SQUID INK!Then there are THE SONS…………………one of which lives pretty CLOSE to me!
SAFE TRAVELS and THANK YOU SO Much for keeping UP with ME!!!
XO
RebeccaNYC says
You have learned my selfie secret! Take the photo from above! Works a charm. But you’re so pretty, you look lovely at every angle!
My lipstick tip is to wear less of it, in sheerer colors. “Fresh” makes wonderful lip balms with a hint of color…from darker to lighter as suits your complexion. Very moisturizing, too.
As I get older I find myself wearing less and less makeup, often going without entirely. For me, heavy base makeup, lipstick and eye makeup are very aging. When I put on stage makeup, I feel like I am wearing a mask, and I can’t WAIT to take it off!
contessa says
I GO withOUT MAKE UP A LOT TOO!
AT a certain point it’s like what is the POINT?
But lately I have been indulging in the REDS on the LIPS………today I went lighter a pink because of what one of the commenters said.I do like the DARKER colors better…………
I can TOTALLY UNDERSTAND YOU NOT WANTING To WEAR ANYTHING AFTER your OPERA STAGE MAKE UP IS RE~MOVED!I GET IT!
DID I see over on HEATHER’s blog you are headed to FRANCE!!!!!!!!!!!!
ENJOY ENJOY ENJOY!!
XX
RebeccaNYC says
Yes!! We normally go every summer but we skipped last year. I cannot WAIT to be there and finally meet Heather. We’ll go in the middle of June. Heaven!!
Libby Wilkie says
Oh, what fun with the selfie stick!!! And all the colors in every image. J’adore!!!
As to the lipstick issue: well, I hardly ever wear it. It’s just one of those things/makeup that I seem to forget all about. I do everything else; believe me, everything else…but just not the lipstick! I’m going to try and read the comments (there are so many!) and see some more suggestions and ideas. Wonderful post my dear!
contessa says
THANKS LIBBY!
I think THE COMMENTS are MORE FUN TO READ sometimes MORE then the BLOG!Especially when everyone offers an opinion!
Let me know how the lipstick stays in place!
MANY THANKS………..XX
Penelope Bianchi says
Omigosh! You gave me two headbands! I LOVE them; they got put away somehow; and now they are out when I can see them!!! Will be wearing often!!!
contessa says
GOOD!
CAUSE That WHITE ONE on the LADY that BEAT you in the BEAUTY PAGEANT on the SHIP many MOON’s AGO looked STUNNING In it!IT was only halfway through the luncheon I realized I had MADE IT!!!!!!!!
SEND Me a photo soonest!!!!!!!XO
Andrea@WellnessNotes says
Great photos! You are beautiful! And fabulous headbands!
I’ve been thinking of getting a selfie stick… Seems to be a lot of fun… 🙂
I love the red/pink scarf on you! Such beautiful colors!
I’ve been thinking about wrinkles a lot lately as I see more and more appear on my face. But I also realize that I honestly don’t really notice them on others (of course I see that people are getting older, but it never jumps out at me…). In others, I see their smile, their spirit, their calmness, their beauty…
contessa says
GOOD TO KNOW………….I enjoy the WRINKLES On OTHERS to be honest.IT just ADDS Something to their character.But when they start appearing on yourself you DO notice thinking what’s going on!
I MUST get in contact with YOU!
Can you send me your email or number through my email here……….?
WE MUST PUT SOMETHING ON THE CALENDAR or NOTHING WILL HAPPEN!
XX
casareckruin says
So enjoyed this …we are all lipstick queens ,, me personally prefers coralred ,, but tend now days to fade into the background wearing soft nudes ,,I can notice every one and not get noticed ,,20 yrs ago it would have been red lips pouting ,,,xxx thankyou for making me laugh this morning ,,!!!
contessa says
SO,you have given me a HINT as to YOUR AGE GORGEOUS CASA of RECK & RUIN!IF you wear more CORAL me thinks you are a BLONDE!The fact that YOU have a DAUGHTER that see’s YOU in ME or ME in YOU gives me another hint!SO, Happy YOU FOUND ME!
HAVE YOU FINISHED THE DRAWING???DON’t forget because you FIND A run down CASA COLONICA in the MIDDLE Of TOSCANA and it’sCHALK FULL Of OUR KIND of STUFF!!!!!!
FUN FACT……When we LIVED there in TUSCANY my husband was offered a JOB with a CHEESE COMPANY in SARDENGNA………along with the JOB came a HOUSE in TUSCANY a RUIN Bascially.Only YOU can imagine how disappointed I was when HE didNOT take that JOB!Keep on HUNTING & GATHERING for ME TOO………..in your HEART think CONTESSA would want this SO I BETTER KEEP IT!
XX
Ms. Mary says
I enjoyed this post- another glimpse into your glamorous life. Through your words, your sweet generous spirit is highlighted. Through your photos, your inner AND outer beauty shines through.
And, I am really enjoying the comments as well- what a wonderful COMMUNITY you have built!
<3
contessa says
I AGREE…………about the COMMUNITY!IT is SO fun when people ADD to the conversation!
So, far the chapstick around the lips seems to have made a BIG difference for me!I had used a LIPLINER……………but it still leaked out!I MUST Go back and THANK that person!
This is day FOUR I think that I have been doing it!
XX
Nita says
Wow! This post made my day! Love the photos! I’m proud to call you my fairy godmother, as well as my two boys 🙂 Are we luckiest or what! She even makes out of this world mashed potatoes called “Fairy Godmother potatoes”!
Penelope Bianchi says
Let’s just know….La Contessa……is the star blogger!
Right???
XXOO
contessa says
AND YOU MAKE THEM TOO but with a TWIST!
SWEET POTATOES!I must try that……..
I named them FAIRY GODMOTHER potatoes SO her BOYS would EAT them!
IT WORKED!!!!!!
XX
contessa says
PENELOPE………NO STAR HERE.
Just sharing MY DAY TO DAY LIFE with a FEW of YOU who GET ME!
I FOR CERTAIN get YOU!!!!!!!!!!
XO
contessa says
VIA EMAIL:
Love your photos with the clematis – stunning!
Re lipstick – try Elizabeth Arden’s Lip Fix – I have been using it for years to keep my lipstick out
of the crevases of character…..works fantastically!
Olwyn
contessa says
CREVASSES of Character…………..LOVE THAT DESCRIPTION!
I shall TRY all the suggestions!………XX
Heather Lindstrom says
Hello Lovely Lady,
These images are SO fun and so authentically YOU!! AS for lipsticks, I’m using Bite Beauty brand right now for the natural properties. I’m a lipstick addict and shudder to imagine how much I ‘eat’ every year.
As for my post on Parisian Apartments, I finally found and added a link to apartment with the zinc mirror. Just for YOU!
xx, Heather PS-Scott and I will be staying in Corey’s Paris apartment this summer. It was so fun to learn that you had stayed there too! ;0 xx
contessa says
I Meant to MENTION that TO YOU!!!!!!!!!
FANTASTIC………….you willNOT be disappointed!!!
XX