As an Edward Bess devotee, I had to try the new Sheer Satin Cream Compact Foundation ($60) - even though I'm not usually tempted by "powder-finish" foundations. Susan and Jennifer at Bergdorf Goodman let me know it was coming, and the first time I listened, I thought I heard "powder foundation." The second time we talked (and I probed a little), I heard "cream that dries to a matte, powder-like finish." Perfect description! I shouldn't have let the word "powder" throw me off the first time.Sheer Satin Cream Compact Foundation, designed for all skin types, has a lightweight texture and weightless feel. It provides a natural finish and blends flawlessly with bare skin. As Susan pointed out, it's perfect for all women, but those who want to wear foundation only in the center of their faces will love the way it blends. The foundation is oil-free, and even better, it's fragrance-free!
The foundation is silicone-based, so it has nice "slip" and won't settle into your expression lines or pores. Whether you apply it with the sponge that's provided in the compact, a foundation brush, or your fingers (horrors!), it will give you a nice, sheer airbrushed look.
It's available in five shades: Light, Bare, Nude, Beige, and Natural. I bought Light. Natural is the darkest shade and would be appropriate for olive, Mediterranean/Spanish skin. There are no shades for my chocolate-skinned friends.
I bought Light. I felt like an overachiever, outside trying to get a swatch photo for you. I took nine pictures. How is anyone going to get a swatch photo of a foundation that "melts" right into the skin? That matches perfectly? That looks like a second skin? My best shot is at right, and you can barely see the unblended color I applied heavily by patting it on with the sponge. I got just the right angle so that I can see it, but I'm not sure you can.
The shiny, black compact is a perfect size for throwing in your handbag for touch-ups. I plan to take mine to work for mid-day touch-ups to my nose and chin - the two areas that lose my foundation first (I always have a tissue in my pocket for my allergies). I love the creamy feel of the foundation and how easily it blends.
You can purchase Edward Bess cosmetics at Bergdorf Goodman. If you don't live in or near New York, give Susan and Jennifer a call at (212) 872-8826. If you can describe your skin color - or name another foundation in the store that you are wearing - they can help you select a shade. If you are lucky and live in Los Angeles or Houston (as of tomorrow at the Houston Galleria), you can visit an Edward Bess counter at Neiman Marcus. Edward himself will be at the Neiman Marcus at Houston Galleria from September 28 to October 1 to open his newest counter.
Photos by BTiB