It is not often that I am so powerfully swayed by a product that isn’t MAC right from the get go. I tend to need a bit of coaxing, a bit more temptation to defect from my brand loyalty. Of course, I have several beauty products that I consider staples that are outside of MAC’s scope, so it is not an impossible task, but only the best are up to the challenge. NARS is finding a way back into my heart with their Holiday 2007 collection Siren Song, which features this stunning eyeshadow duo in Balthazar (along with Cheyenne and Violetta). I was immediately drawn to the vibrancy of the duo, especially of the tarnished gold. One swipe, and I was in heaven! I am not as in love with the brown (it is more easily duplicated), but it is an excellent partner for the gold shadow. This is just such an awesome combination for the upcoming holiday season, where golds and bronzes often reign supreme.

To hear me gush more about one of my favorite holiday collections out this year, you’ll have to

The three luxurious items pictured above are my other three favorites from the launch: Virdiana lipstick, Cheyenne eyeshadow duo, and Saratoga nail polish. Virdiana is a rich burgundy, a touch vampy, and yet perfect for alluring holiday pouts. Imagine a touch of gold on the lid from Balthazar, perhaps a semi-matte or matte warm brown in the crease, and lips the shade of deep crimson. Oh, glory! Saratoga is an obvious pick, because I adore raspberry reds for nail polishes (Chanel’s Tulipe Noir is a favorite). Cheyenne is almost like a more toned done version of Balthazar, and just such a classy duo. I am such a sucker for anything gold, aren’t I?

You’ll also find items to tempt yourself with in Rose Gitane lip gloss, Luster blush (ohh, I imagine a slight glowy, bronzy look–perfect for winter cheeks), Night Snow and Night Rider single eyeshadows, Bad Education lip gloss, and Metis/Victoire, Turkish Delight/Sayonara, Sand Piper/Daredevil, Moon Fleet/Indian Red lip gloss/lipstain duos.

If only I had unlimited funds, I would dive right into Cheyenne, Saratoga, Luster, Moon Fleet/Indian Red. Instead, I am trying to be content with my Balthazar duo, and I hope I can resist temptation! Where is my Christmas NARS elf?

Purchase NARS products at www.narscosmetics.com and www.sephora.com.