Saturday, April 20, 2013

Tom Ford Summer 2013 Beauty Collection - Swatches

My local Neiman Marcus received some of the testers from the Tom Ford Summer 2013 Beauty Collection - but not the for-sale product - so I went over to swatch them today. The photo above of the partial collection they had received was taken with my iPhone. I had taken my camera, but the moment I turned it on, it gave me the dreaded "No battery" message. I was sure I could eek out a few photos when I checked the battery level before I left home. I came home ever so carefully, not letting my arm touch anything, charged the battery just enough, and went outdoors in full sun to snap swatch photos.

I will be showing you photos again when I get my own pieces next week - and I'll make sure they are better. For now, I wanted to share a few swatch photos with you - just in case you haven't decided what to purchase. I will warn you that each store is receiving a limited number of each piece (something like 18), so I would pre-order if you want to order locally.

Here is a slightly edited version of the marketing blurb for the collection. For Summer 2013, Tom Ford created a seasonal color collection that captures the luminous and sensuous effect of bronzed skin. This limited-edition collection features the new Tom Ford Skin Illuminator, the Tom Ford Illuminating Cheek Color, and a harmony of shimmery and sheer shades for the eyes, lips, and nails. The face and cheeks are illuminated with peach-pink and bronzed amber; eyes are dewy and mesmerizing with delicate tones of pale pink and nude peach; nails are given a pearl wash of white, and lips are lacquered in shimmery golden pink pearls.

I applied the Escapade Cream Color for Eyes ($40) is at the top of my arm. The Pink Lust Lip Lacquer ($30) is shown below. The two Illluminating Cheek Color ($58) sticks follow, with Bronzed Amber pictured above Blushed Guilt. The Fire Lust Skin Illuminator ($65) is the largest swatch at the bottom on my arm. I'm sorry I listed the names of these products incorrectly yesterday. I'll blame Elle.

The Escapade Cream Color for Eyes is a shimmering peach. Tom Ford describes it as peach-pink, but I don't see a pink hue, either in the pot or on my skin. I think it's drop-dead gorgeous - even if it's not unique. Nieman Marcus did not have the tester for Pink Haze, but I understand it's "definitely pink."

Pink Lust Lip Lacquer is a stunning, light pink with a golden pearl. It coordinates perfectly with the rest of the collection.

The Illuminating Cheek Colors are utterly fabulous. I love cream sticks, and these are both must-haves. They are also generous in size. They apply very sheerly, and you can build the color. My advice to anyone who might be afraid of the darker one, Bronzed Amber? Don't be! Bronzed Amber is as perfect a bronzer as I've seen in recent years. There isn't even a smidge of muddiness in the color (on my skin). Blushed Guilt provides a natural, radiant glow in a shade that's going to send pale faces rushing to the counter. Both shades offer a bit of wearable shimmer.

I adore the Fire Lust Skin Illuminator, so I pre-ordered it at Neiman Marcus. My original opinion, that it might duplicate other liquid illuminators I own, was incorrect. It is a shimmering peachy pink. Love, love, love! I'll just have to wait for it to show up at Neiman Marcus since my box from New York is already on the way.

Since I had to get all the colors on my arm before I left the store, my photos are small. Just click on them to enlarge the swatches. Neiman Marcus had not received the Nail Lacquer or the Bronzing Powders (repromotes). They did have Sahara Noir (for you fragrance experts).

One thing about the collection that impressed me immediately is its elegance. It is magnificent, but not flashy. It's makeup for makeup mavens, designed to flatter, not draw attention from your face to your makeup. Does it get better than that?

As Carolyn shared and I tweeted yesterday, the collection is for sale at the flagship Saks store. If you would like to pre-order from Neiman Marcus at Tysons Galleria, call Enrique Valentino at (703) 761-1600, extension 3295.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

44 comments:

Deb said...

Hi CG. Hope you are having a good weekend and doing better. Thanks for the early swatches. I have yet to purchase any Tom Ford. Considering my usual preference for high end brands, I'm not sure why. I have to say, these colors look pretty but really not unique or particularly interesting. And definitely dupable. I'll wait until you put up the next set of swatches and take another look, but I have to say for the money I'm just not getting the Tom Ford hype. Wonder what I'm missing?

Anonymous said...

These are beautiful and I am a sucker for this look. Do you remember when Chanel issued a collection called Natural Allure >10 years ago? It was a very similar concept and stunning. I only have the Nail Polish left but would long for something similar.
Thanks, Tanja

Jenny said...

Love your swatches CG! I can't wait for my pieces to get here--I'm dying with anticipation--I think my credit card hurts, too. I think you'll be so glad you got the illuminator. I can't wait to see the "real" swatches!

Jo said...

I was going to be good and wait until I saw these in person before ordering but my excitement got the best of me and I ordered from Saks. I got the illuminator, bronzed amber (the other blush stick looked similar to the illuminator so I decided I didn't need both), the escapade eye shadow the lip lacquer and the nail polish. I wish I had waited to see your post today before I ordered because now I'm thinking that the eye shadow may be too shimmery for me. I'm not sure it's 'me.' Oh well, it's always nice to have something to be excited about and look forward to so I can't wait to get my package!

How are your proposals coming along? Or is it just one that you've been working on all week. I hope you get a new gig soon!

Dawn said...

Thank you, thank you, thank you CG for these swatches! I have been anxiously waiting for these. But since I have to buy on-line I do have a question for you. I am pale like you and I'd like to get 1 peachy-pink color for my cheeks but I can't tell which is prettier - the pink cheek stick or the Fire Lust illuminator? I would only use the color on my cheeks. Is it possible to give me an opinion on which one to splurge on between the 2 based on texture, wearability, color? They look really similar on my screen. I think I need to order sooner than later! :-) I think the lip lacquer will be the second item I order, it looks gorgeous. Thanks for your help CG. I can always count on you to have some of the first swatches!

Carolyn said...

Hi All! I just tried on Escspade eyeshadow - the less pinky of the two creams available - and it's definitely unique, gorgeous and not too glam or glitz. The lip lacquer has more pink to my eye than peach and it stays in place and is not sticky. This set is definitely for makeup lovers - a lot of fun!
CG- the swatches are great!
Enjoy the weekend, Carolyn / NYC

Anonymous said...

Oooh you're the best for getting these swatches so quickly! Thank you, CG !!!

I want it all, but I agree the illuminator is LOVE at first sight!

Unknown said...

Hi CG,
I love your blog and your passion for makeup. I pre-ordered 4 items earlier today from Enrique and Ja at Neiman's, both blush sticks, Fire Lust and the Escapade creme eyeshadow.
Enrique said it would be ready for pick up next Saturday, the 27th, and I also go a free gift having spent $85 or more.
Enrique mentioned the limited amount available for each item and said that they are going fast with $2,000 already pre-ordered from the line.
I also went to Saks a couple of weeks ago and bought the peach #5 Giorgio Armani fluid sheer that you recommended. I met Giannina and she spoke very highly of you after I mentioned how I follow your blog. She said how you loved when she mixed the pink and peach fluid sheers together.
Speaking of highlighters, there is a new one out by Laura Mercier called Ritual and it is a baked blush. I ordered it last night as part of my order with the VIB discount with Sephora. It is brand new and there are no reviews yet but it is getting quite the following on Youtube and I heard it is gorgeous. Can't wait to try it. Take good care,
Theresa

bisbee said...

Thanks CG. Your swatches solidified my original thoughts - this collection is not for me. I really don't see anything unique about these colors! Maybe I'm not imaginative enough!

Dawn said...

Carolyn - I am interested in the lip lacquer but I was wondering if it's too shimmery for someone 'older' :-)? I still love shimmer as long as it's not gritty or OTT! Thanks!

Eileen said...

Well, that settles that! For me, this collection is a winner. I ordered Haz and Escapade yesterday, but after seeing your swatches, Fire Lust Skin Illuminator and Pink Lust Lip Lacquer will also be must haves. I'd like to try one of the Illuminating Cheek Colors, but I can't make up my mind which one it shall be :-P. And don't you tell me to get both, you enabler, you! LOL

Hi Bisbee; Hi Deb,

You know, whenever a collection comes out there will always be women who aren't drawn to it and that's just fine. After all, we're individual women; not lemmings :-) No collection is going to suit everyone. We need to find the things that express our esthetic, suit our features, and fit in with our life style. Knowing ourselves and what suits us best and then finding the products that exemplify our style is what it's all about. Fortunately, collections of gorgeous products abound so there is sure to be something for everyone.

Hi Dawn,

The lip lacquer is a pearl; not a glitter. The model in the promo picture (you can see it on Temptalia 1/19) is wearing it. I think it will look beautiful alone as it is on the model or layered over any of the quintessential summer colors. I can't speak to this one in particular as I don't have it yet, but the previous two TF lip lacquers were as smooth as can be; light and comfortable. As for "someone 'older'", I'm cruising towards 69 and don't think think Pink Lust will be too much at all :-)

Charlestongirl said...

Hi Deb!

If I were evaluating the actual shades for uniqueness, I would select the two cheek sticks and the liquid illuminator. There's nothing especially unique about the eye shadow or lip color, but they are very pretty and complement the other shades. I see this as a collection to be worn as an ensemble.

Charlestongirl said...

Hi Tanja,

Barely. I wonder if that means I'm losing my mind...

Charlestongirl said...

Jenny, I was so wrong about it. I'm glad I got to see it in person today.

Charlestongirl said...

Hey there, Jo, Job well done. :)

Charlestongirl said...

Hi Dawn,

They are similar in color, but the liquid has more sparkle. Based on the very short time I played with them, I think you will find the Illuminating Cheek Color more versatile.

Charlestongirl said...

Thanks, Carolyn. We all appreciate your help!

Charlestongirl said...

Hi wwendalynne,

I am very impressed with the collection. It will create a cohesive and beautiful summer look.

Charlestongirl said...

Hi Theresa,

He is the TF guy. Ja is an SA. How did you get both of them?

Isn't Giannina a doll? You should have her do your makeup sometime.

BTW, I reviewed Ritual last week. Scroll down - probably to the next page.

Charlestongirl said...

Hi Bisbee,

It's like a total package. However, if you don't want or need a total look, I understand. Just think...you can spend your money on something that excited you more. That's cool.

Charlestongirl said...

Dawn,

Never worry about shimmer on your lips. It will make them look more plump (and young). :)

Charlestongirl said...

OK, Eileen, I won't tell you to get both. I know you will once you see them. Big smile!

Dawn said...

Oh CG now after I told myself the illuminator should probably be the 'one' for me, LOL. I studied your pics over and over again and to me it looked like Fire Lust has a bit more color to it which would be nice. Too light of colors get lost on my face for some reason. Do you think Fire Lust has too much sparkle for cheeks? My only fear for the stick colors is their creaminess. I have his stick foundation and it works great for me in the winter but by summer my face is too oily for it. I know you have dry skin but would you have any thoughts on this?

Since I'm 'only' 48 I think the lip lacquer sounds perfect for me! :-) Thanks CG and Eileen for your help. I don't know what I would do without all you lovely ladies helping me out. :-)

Carolyn said...

Hi Dawn - As for the lacquer - CG and the other ladies say it eloquently.......it's elegant and lovely but wouldn't be confused with anything that's super fly glittery or grainy. Hope you enjoy -- will watch for your posts. Big hug, Carolyn

AZ said...

Sigh... guess I'm going to Saks tomorrow haha. I totally wanted this to be a miss for me. I didn't get the hype before your swatches now I do.

Charlestongirl said...

Dawn, I applied a tiny dot of Fire Lust to my arm and blended. Had I applied more, I believe I could have achieved more color. They were treating the testers like jewels, so I was respectful in how much I used. I could see them getting nervous as I applied the eye shadow heavily enough to get a good swatch.

I ran a sponge-tipped applicator over the top of the sticks to pick up the colors. Both were very sheer, so I had to do that multiple times, layering them for photos. They are very creamy. If your skin sheds creams in the summer, you have two options. First, use a primer and finish with a translucent powder, that will help the powder stay in place. Second, go for the liquid, and to cut the shimmer, mix it with your foundation or moisturizer. If you really want to wear the product on your cheeks only, option two won't work.

I wish I could have played longer. It is possible that if you buff Fire Lust, you can lose the sparkle. Apply it and blend, then take a sense buffing brush and blend again in small circles. That usually works to remove some of the sparkle. These are micro-fine sparkles, so they won't scream gaudy.

At 48, you are a youngster. Experiment! I used to go buy cheap makeup at the drugstore to play with colors, finishes, textures, and more. It opened my eyes to new options with the high-end stuff.

The Lip Lacquer is a smooth lip color, and it has plenty of pastel color. I know what you mean. Too light and my face turns into monochromatic blah. I think you will like it.

Charlestongirl said...

AZ, sorry. Given the state of my wallet, that would have been good for me too. Unfortunately (?), I think this is the best, most thoughtfully edited TF collection ever.

Charlestongirl said...

One more thing, Theresa,

In your photo, your skin looks dark enough to handle a light dusting of Ritual. While too dark for me, it is a lovely bronzer.

Charlestongirl said...

One more thing, Dawn. The Lip Lacquer is intended to be worn alone, but you can treat it as a finishing and sealing gloss if you feel it's too light.

Eileen is right. It's not at all glittery. It's adult makeup.

Bonnie C. said...

I think the eye color is lovely, I am definitely drawn to that "look" for the eyes. I wonder how pink the Pink Haze will be, I usually think pinks are pretty (especially cooler toned light pinks), but I have found some pinks a bit tricky.

Thanks for sharing these swatches! :-)

Unknown said...

Hi CG,
Every time I go to the Tom Ford counter Ja waits on me, although I have met Enrique before. A lot of the time he is doing makeovers when I do see him.

Today when I called to pre-order Enrique took down the order and then gave the phone to Ja for her to take my credit card information so that is how I dealt with both at once today.

I don't know how I missed your review on Ritual but now I am worried that it will be too dark on me as well!

I will definitely be back to see Giannina, she not only helped in makeup but walked over with me to the Celine handbags as well and talked about them with me. (It was closing time)

Theresa

Unknown said...

Hi again!
Just saw your second comment on the Ritual blusher and feel better about it now possibly not being too dark on me. My skin tone is light to medium so we will see next week when it arrives. Thanks very much,
Theresa

Dawn said...

I am definitely ordering the lip lacquer, it sounds perfect! I found a gorgeous glossimer from Chanel once but surprisingly it was gritty and I can't stand that. Thanks for your help Carolyn. :-)

Dawn said...

Thanks for more information CG. I'm going to have to think a bit more on which might work for me. I know for sure now that the lip lacquer is a yes. I've tried everything to keep cream products on my face during the summer to no avail. If the cream products are in the more dry side then yes, they work better of course. I have an Armani fluid sheer that's bronzey in color that lasts on me during the summer. If I see a color I like I want it no matter if it's cream or powder, LOL. Not good for my wallet though if it doesn't wear well.

I'm glad I'm a youngster to you....tell the arthritis in my knee that, LOL. But that comment made my day, thank you. :-)

Mamavalveeta03 said...

I think the colors are beautiful, but they seem more like the "me" that used to lay out in the sun and bake (that was when I didn't have grey in my hair, and it used to get natural highlights!). But now, I'm paler, and I tend to look pretty washed out without some more color on my face. I wish I could find a store around here that carried it! (and I don't have any NYC trips planned on the horizon...bummer.)

Claire said...

The Illuminating cheek color looks wonderful, CG, thanks for the coverage!

Charlestongirl said...

Hi Bonnie,

Hope you are OK. Pinks are tricky. If you have any tendency to red eyes (I do) - from allergies, heredity (Irish lasses), or fatigue - pink can add to the problem. If I like it when I see it, I will probably buy it because I love cream shadows. Otherwise...

Charlestongirl said...

Dawn, I hate grit too. I've never experienced it with Chanel. I wonder if you got a bad tube.

Charlestongirl said...

Now I get it, Theresa. Yes, that's normal. The product specialists will throw a sale to your normal SA. The PSs have very minimal sales goals.

Charlestongirl said...

Hi MamaVal, I can see why some - like you? - won't find the collection colorful enough. Just wait for the Chantecaille color to show. :)

Charlestongirl said...

Thanks, Claire, It is a stunner.

Eileen said...

I guess that Fire Lust Illuminator is really versatile. I just read that it was mixed with Nicole Kidman's body foundation for her Oscar makeup--which was Tom Ford by the way. As pale as she is, she probably needed a bit of color and glow to compete with that gorgeous black and gold gown. She looks radiant while retaining her porcelain look. That tells me that Fire Lust will carry over nicely into winter as well.

Anonymous said...

So gorgeous! Someday I will own Tom Ford. I look forward to that day!!

Mamavalveeta03 said...

More beautiful cosmetics coming my way!!?? I'm doomed!!