So, I've discovered the world of the beauty blog.

As a former (recovering?) product junkie, this is like manna from heaven for me. The news and product reviews are fun (and okay, a little useful - now that I live in Baltimore, I'm no longer a stone's throw from great shopping.)

Many of them have done a nice little 'Best of 2006' roundup. In the spirit of the inspiring blogettes, I'm posting my year's greatest hits.

Without further ado --

OPI nailpolish, Black Tie Optional - worked perfectly in keeping on the black(ish) nail polish trend (ahem). I actually like this better than Chanel's Black Satin. Deepest purple that looks jewel-like in the sun. Discontinued; found it on Ebay.

Urban Decay Primer Potion- critical for keeping your eye makeup from migrating. Now an absolute essential.

Lorac eyeshadow in Jade - Latest acquisition. Love this shadow - blackened olive green. A new favorite.

Nars eyeshadow in Kiki - a great basic for smoky eyes - simple, matte dark grey.

Aveda Rosemary Mint hand/body wash - most likely, the highlight of the bridesmaid gift bags I put together back in June. So well suited for the occasion of an outdoorsy summer wedding.

Z. Bigatti Restoration Delicate face cream - yeah, so I'll never buy this again, way too pricey. But very nice while it lasts.

Lothantique shea butter soap in Vanilla Sugar - I love this little soap so much. Subtle, rich scent that is never cloying.

Phyto 7 - back in the highlighting days, I went for Phyto 9. But my hair's current incarnation is longer, more natural, and overall more well-behaved, so Phyto 7 is the perfect light conditioning leave in.