Makeup MECCA

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Anticipated arrival of big-name beauty emporium has glamourpusses glowing (ASSOCIATED PRESS ARCHIVES)

I’M a huge advocate of shopping local and supporting small boutiques, but every now and then I get a little jazzed when certain chain stores come to the Peg.

For example, first we got a Lululemon -- yay, quality yoga clothes! -- then an Aritzia, one of my faves to hit when in Toronto, and now Winnipeggers have another big-name retailer to get excited about.

Cosmetics giant Sephora is opening its doors next weekend at Polo Park Shopping Centre, much to the delight of city makeup mavens who have been eagerly anticipating the store's arrival for months.

For those who haven't had the opportunity to visit a Sephora, it's best described as a department store entirely devoted to cosmetics, fragrances and skin-care products -- a kind of makeup superstore.

According to Sephora Pro Beauty Team member Nathalie Bechard, it's a one-stop shop for beauty, from head to toe.

"It's a huge mecca where you can find everything from cosmetics to body care and skin care; there are over 100 brands available," says Bechard.

Personally, I find the sheer size of the store to be a bit overwhelming and almost intimidating -- that is a whole lotta product and cosmetics. So, with so much to choose from, where does one begin?

Luckily, Bechard has a few recommendations to keep your skin fresh and glowing, especially given the dry, hot, high-UV summers we get here in Winnipeg.

Exfoliate:

Dead skin can make you look dull. Buff it off with a granular or chemical exfoliant for smooth, bright and clean skin. Or take your daily face wash to the next level with Sephora's No. 1 bestseller, the Clarisonicskin-care system.

Moisturize:

Harsh UV rays and dry air can dehydrate your skin, making it look dull and rough. Investing in a good-quality moisturizer with SPF will not only protect against the suns harsh afternoon rays, but also keep your skin looking healthy and supple.

Bronze:

Fake it till you make it, says Bechard. Bronzers create that sun-kissed look and add a little sheen to your skin without the harmful effects of tanning.

Once you've taken care of your skin, Bechard says, look to golden hues and shimmery glosses to complete your look this summer. For a touch of colour, use a turquoise liner to brighten your eyes or some navy polish to add a little flair to your toes.

connietamotofashion@hotmail.com

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition May 23, 2009 F10