Disclosure: Press samples
The limited edition ‘New York In Bloom’ Collection from Elizabeth Arden, also includes two bronzers – in light & medium tones – embossed with the same floral design as that found on the eye shadow trios (reviewed here), and come in luxe mirrored compacts printed with a subtle floral motif. According to the company:
“Lightweight, silky smooth texture imparts a luminous, bronzed glow with a hint of pink and gold. Infused with antioxidants, this mineral-based powder creates a healthy complexion”
Key ingredients:
- Vitamin E for antioxidant protection
- Argan Oil for natural antioxidant protection
- Oleic and Linoleic acids, two essential fatty acids that help with moisture retention
- Illuminating, microlight minerals act as optical diffusers that work to scatter light and soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles
For the past couple of years, I have been on a major bronzer high; in part because I finally figured out the right way to use them and realized how a correct application can totally enhance one’s face, as well as the drop-dead gorgeous designs to be found with many of these products — with these Elizabeth Arden bronzers definitely falling into the latter category. A kiss of bronzer can literally take years off your face and provide you with the illusion of radiant health, and I’m so down for that. Then there’s the rather 50’s inspired retro look of these compacts … so ladylike, yet totally decadent!
My findings: Upon first glance, the shade variations found on both bronzers seems to be rather close, but my swatches show how completely different they are from one another. The floral embossed surface bears a light iridescence, which turns out to be primarily an overspray – something that I’m happy to note, as I don’t mind my bronzers semi-luminous but I draw the line at anything overtly glittery. The compact bears a good heft and has a luxurious look to it, although the included brushes are totally superfluous and should never have been included (rather cheap white plastic casing) – good thing they don’t affect the actual product.
Once you pass the overspray, there is a light kickback when you swirl your brush along the powder, but it’s minimal and becomes less the more the product is used. The texture of the powder is exceptionally finely milled and seems to melt into the skin without settling in any lines or enhancing those with enlarged pores. I typically get at least 10 hours staying power with my bronzers, and these were no exception, although the lighter shade seemed less obvious on my skin by the 9-hour mark. I experienced no oxidation (when the shade turns an unnatural orange-y hue as it merges with your skin’s oils) with either powder, and I absolutely LOVED the gentle yet natural glow each one gave off … something I so totally did NOT expect.
*Note that my skin is already lightly tanned in these photos, which may affect the appearance and intensity of each bronzing powder, but you can still get a pretty good idea of the individual shades. I prefer to wear my bronzers when I already have some colour, to even out any imperfections and give my skin a touch of luminosity.
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder (with included demi-lune brushes)
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder (compact)
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder (ingredients list)
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder in ‘Soft’
Soft – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder (CAD $40.00 10 g/.35 oz) – a light tan hue with soft pink undertones, suitable for paler complexions and which makes for an effortless all over look. Provides a gentle sun-kissed glow on darker skin tones.
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder in ‘Soft’ (detail)
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder in ‘Soft’ (swatched on unprimed skin)
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder in ‘Warm’
Warm – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder (CAD $40.00 10 g/.35 oz) – a deeper tan hue with a slight coral tint (not orange based at all) that works beautifully on darker complexions or anyone already sporting a tan, and which can definitely also be worn by those with paler skin tones – provided it’s applied with a light hand; barring which, it can also be used as a contour powder instead.
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder in ‘Warm’ (detail)
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powder in ‘Warm’ (swatched on unprimed skin)
Elizabeth Arden – Pure Finish Radiant Bronzing Powders
Last word: Both bronzers took me by surprised (I seem to find myself surprised a lot with this brand – talk about a sleeper!), as I did not expect how beautifully enhancing each shade would be or the high-end quality of the product itself. My only complaint is with the dinky brushes – almost as though they were included as an afterthought and so totally unworthy of the collection. As I prefer to use my own brushes for any face powder application, that fact didn’t really affect my opinion on the bronzers; it’s a question of aesthetics, I suppose. The price point is something to be applauded as well, especially when you factor in the amount of product and the superb quality. Too pretty to use? Maybe, but the result makes it so worthwhile!
The ‘New York In Bloom’ Spring/Summer 2013 Color Collection will be available for a limited time at all Elizabeth Arden counters. Feel free to follow the brand via twitter/facebook for all updates.
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