Monday, October 31, 2011

Vintage Dresses Just Added!

If you love vintage as much as we do, you’ll love the three vintage dresses we just added to our inventory.  So cute, so right now!

Adele Martin 1

So very Mad Men.  You’ll love this Adele Martin Vintage Dress.  Vintage size 8 (Modern Size 2/4).  Just $33.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Halston III

Did you know Halston was one of the first (if not the first) to license himself and sell a line at a lesser price?  His Halston III line was sold at JCP and this LBD is from that collection.  Vintage Size 10 (Modern Size 4/6) $35.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nancy Johnson 1

The color and length of the season are both found in this Nancy Johnson, Vintage Size 8 (modern size 4 but this one fits big…closer to a 6) dress.  $21.

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t miss out…check out all of our new products before they’re gone!

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Brooke Burke Shops at Rubin & Chapelle

Malibu, CADancing With the Stars host Brooke Burke did some shopping last week at one of her fave stores in the Malibu Country Mart, Rubin & Chapelle.  Wearing the brand new Rubin & Chapelle Estate Bag on her arm as she left, she proved her celebs-are-just-like-regular-people side, indulging in what looked to be a delish cupcake. 

Brooke Burke 1Brooke Burke 2

Friday, October 28, 2011

How Green Would You Go to Support the Cause?

Actress Tanna Frederick co-hosted the Fourth Annual Project SOS: Surft 24 celebrity surfathon wearing the below “green” dress.  The dress, from designer Papier Couture by Lia Griffith (check out the website, her designs are ca-razy amazing!) is made entirely of post consumer and recycled paper.

So ladies, what do you think?  Would you stand up for the cause wearing nothing but paper?

Tanna Frederick

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Tips to Combat the Signs of Aging that Stars Even Fall Victim To

There’s no sugar coating it.  Aging sucks.  Creeping wrinkles and sagging skin, among other things, can make our youthful days come to a sudden halt.  Call it vanity, but for whatever reason, it is nice to know that celebs and regular women alike suffer from same aging problems. 

Dr. Bruce Katz of the JUVA Skin & Laser Center in NYC below shares his thoughts on what some of Hollywood’s most beautiful women may be overlooking and how a quick visit to the dermatologist can remedy these problems. 

Madonna’s Hands

“The hands are extremely vulnerable to the signs of aging because of the thinness of the skin in that area,” says Dr. Katz

Madonna’s hands would benefit from Sculptra treatments, an injectable that gradually plumps the hands, removing wrinkles and decreasing the visibility of bulging veins. One of the benefits of this treatment is that it lasts longer than other fillers; in fact, it can last up to two years!

                                  MadonnaMadonna's Hands

Diane Keaton’s Neck

Over time, due to natural aging and weight fluctuation, the skin in the neck wrinkle and sag,” says Dr. Katz.

Other than wearing turtlenecks, Diane Keaton’s neck could be helped by Exilis.  Exilis works by thermally heating tissue quickly and effectively to remove fat and tighten skin.  By the collagen remodeling process, this cost effective approach to body contouring produces measurable results with minimal discomfort and no downtime for the patient.  This treatment usually lasts no longer than twenty minutes and shows immediate results.

                                                     Diane Keaton

Sarah Jessica Parker’s Feet:

Just like the hands, the skin on our feet is very thin. Because of factors such as prolonged standing over time, spider veins in the feet can begin to appear. Sarah Jessica Parker could be even more confident when modeling her Manolos if she opts for an Asclera™ treatment.  Asclera™ is a new FDA approved injection sclerotherapy treatment available to doctors for use on spider veins, both large and small, up to 3mm in diameter.  Once injected, it acts by damaging the cell lining of blood vessel, causing them to close and eventually disappear.  The treatment boasts no downtime and most veins are corrected in 1 -2 treatments.  

                              SJPSJP Feet

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Jennifer Garner in Citizens of Humanity

How cute were Jen, Ben and daughter shopping at a farmer’s market in Brentwood last week?  Ms. Garner was wearing Citizens of Humanity “Ava” Straight Leg Maternity Jeans in Faith.  The jean retails for $178 and is available at Saks.

                          ben affleck and family 161011 ben affleck and family 161011

Monday, October 24, 2011

My New Loves: ZO® Skin Health Products

Searching for a new skincare line?  Maybe one that “bridges the gap between therapeutic medical products and daily skin care?”  Look no further than ZO® Skin Health, a new line by Zein Obagi, MD, that fights the signs of aging with powerful ingredients and an enhanced delivery system. 

Lucky me to receive samples of two of their products to try and write about.  I have to admit, generally when I try cleansing-type products, I’m skeptical.  Many seem the same and the promised results end up being ho-hum.  This line?  Not ho-hum!  Not even a little!  Keep reading for reviews on two of the line’s products: Offects® Exfoliating Cleanser and Offects® Exfoliating Polish.

ZO CleanserOffects® Exfoliating Cleanser ($45)

I know I know…all cleansers are the same.  Or, at least the results they promise are.  So what makes this cleanser different?  For starters, it actually works.  And I don’t think I fully realized that until that one time of month where I break out like a teen on a chocolate diet (and yes I know, chocolate doesn’t really cause acne, #sarcasm).  Actually it occurred to me when those few days had passed and I realized I hadn’t broken out.  Nothing.  Not a zit, not a bump, not a blemish. 

Is it right for you?  Well, if your concern is acne-prone skin, monthly blemishes, clogged or enlarged pores or excess oil, you my friend are the perfect candidate for Offects® Exfoliating Cleanser.  The gel-like formula is enhanced with Vitamin E to fight free radicals and repair damaged skin, and Lipopeptide to boost collagen and stimulate cellular function.

I know like many women, I’m guilty of wanting to know, or “feel,” that a product is working “right now.”  I want my pores to shrink overnight, I want my blemishes to disappear in an instant.  So, the truth is, you won’t “feel” this working.  There’s no tingling, no light-up sign that with an arrow pointing to your face that says, “Your skin is healing here!”  But I did experience results.  Good ones at that!

ZO PolishOffects® Exfoliating Polish ($75)

Alright, so, if you DO want to FEEL something, you’ll definitely notice this!  This exfoliator uses Magnesium Crystals to gently remove dead surface cells and allow for better penetration and enhanced cellular turnover.  In addition to the crystals, Vitamin A, for cellular turnover and a collagen boost, Vitamin C and C Esters which stimulate collagen synthesis and protect skin by reducing free radicals, and Vitamin E, to fight free radicals and repair damaged skin cells, all work toward common goals: an exfoliated, clearer, smoother, more even-toned complexion. 

So you know those polishes that you have to really “scrub” into your skin to get the “promised” results?  Well, this is not one of them!  In fact if anything, you’ll want to apply less pressure than what you would normally use even to cleanse your skin.  I admit, that took me awhile to get used to.  It didn’t take me awhile however to get used to the results – you will immediately feel smoother skin.  I tried this polish both in the morning and at night and found that (for me) my skin was more receptive to it in the evening and I woke up glowing and OH-SO-SMOOTH.  Literally.  I couldn’t keep my hands off me! 

Recommended use is twice weekly to daily and I’ve chosen, initially to use twice per week.  I can only anticipate a continued improved complexion and diminished fine lines with persistant use, which I actually look forward to now: Sunday and Thursday night scrubs.  Yay!!!  A non-irritating reason to exfoliate!

To see the full ZO® product line, or for more information, visit ZoSkinHealth.com.

Friday, October 21, 2011

Natasha Bedingfield Kicks Off Nationwide Dove Self-Esteem Weekend

Grammy® Award-nominated singer Natasha Bedingfield helped kick-off the Second Annual Dove Self-Esteem Weekend with a performance for local Girl Scouts in New York City.  The singer joins the brand to encourage women to spend one hour in a girl’s life this weekend to help build their self-esteem.  Women can learn more at Dove.com/Weekend.  Thursday, October 20, 2011.Natasha Bedingfield took to the stage Thursday at the former TRL studio in Times Square to perform her inspiring hit song, “Weightless,” in front of Girl Scouts at a kickoff event for the Dove Self-Esteem Weekend.  The event also included activities led by Olympic gold medal soccer star Julie Foudy and self-esteem expert Jess Weiner, all of which aimed to help build confidence in the young women. 

Global research conducted by Dove shows that only 4% of girls around the world consider themselves beautiful, a fact that could impact their decision to go to school or even simply voice their opinion, and events going on this weekend are helping to change that statistic.  Join the Dove Movement and help their goal of inspiring 15 million girls by 2015 (they’ve already reached 8 million!) in the following ways:

  • Participate in the second annual Dove Self-Esteem Weekend from Oct. 21-23 when parents and mentors everywhere are encouraged to commit to spending one hour on a self-esteem building activity with a girl in their lives.
  • Participate in a local event in your area hosted by one of their three partner organizations – Girls, Inc., Boys & Girls Club of America, and Girl Scouts – by finding a specific event on their Facebook map.
  • Download tools like the Girls Guide to the Digital World and other online assets for parents and mentors that offer the resources they need for support and guidance.

And no worries, when the weekend ends, there are still ways to help!  Go to Facebook.com/Dove and answer the question, “Who Inspired You?” and Dove will donate $1 to self-esteem education.  Also, a portion of sales of all Dove products are contributed to the Dove Self-Esteem Fund.

Doing good and giving back, always a “like!”

Above: Grammy® Award-nominated singer Natasha Bedingfield helped kick-off the Second Annual Dove Self-Esteem Weekend with a performance for local Girl Scouts in New York City.  The singer joins the brand to encourage women to spend one hour in a girl’s life this weekend to help build their self-esteem.  Women can learn more at Dove.com/Weekend.  Thursday, October 20, 2011.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Our Cold Weather Cure-All: Smith’s Rosebud Salve

Smith'sToday and yesterday have brought a whole new meaning to the term “Windy City” in the Chicago area.  Ridiculousness is more like it.  So what’s a girl to do when trying to stay pretty in these gusts?  Obviously, your hair might be a lost cause (and I do mean that as nicely as possible)!  But pony, braid, bun or a fabulous hat are really the only ways to go.

As far as your beauty is concerned, I recommend getting yourself a sweet little tin of Smith’s Rosebud Salve.  It might not make the wind go away, but it really is my cold-weather-cure-all.  It doesn’t just heal cracked and chapped lips, it softens dry hands, and my favorite use, it rids your hair of static, which is no-match for Smith’s. 

So, dab a little on your lips, rub between your hands and then rub through the ends of your hair.  Viola!  Three uses in about three seconds…buh-bye chapped lips, dry hands and static fly-aways!  And the vintage tins are equally fabulous, not changing since 1962.  Hey, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!

Smith’s Rosebud Salve retails for about $7 dollars and is available nationwide at places such as Sephora and Drugstore.com

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Get the Look: Catherine Zeta Jones at MPTF

Catherine Zeta JonesHello Gorgeous!  Catherine Zeta Jones was radiant at the Motion Picture & Television Fund Saturday night, thanks in part to Celebrity make-up artist.  Below he fills us on what he used and tips for achieving the look on our own!

Moisturizer: Dermalogica oil free. I use this sheer yet hydrating lotion as a primer.

Eye cream: Chanel Sublimage. I love how it disappears. I apply before and after foundation to keep the eye area dewy and pliable.

Foundation: I mixed two, Make Up Forever's HD in Soft Sand and to warm up a touch, I added Fresh's Umbrian Clay in Marrakesh. Catherine was sporting a beautiful tan already, so I wanted to keep in that vibe.

Bronzer: Jemma Kidd Bronzing Trio compact. I like the three colors of soft bronze tones and slightly shimmery finish.

Concealer: Laura Mercier Camo. I went a touch lighter under the eyes to give the softer shadows a pop more definition.

Blush: Maybelline's Dream Mousse in Soft Plum. I wanted to keep the cheeks womanly but add a touch of sheer sweetness. This formula and color is perfect for adding drama without looking over done or too made up.

Eye shadows: MAC. Lid: Yogurt with a highlight of White Frost in the center to give the lid a moist, wet look. Crease: Quarry. Brow bone: Phloof! I used a small damp brush with Idol Eyes at the lash line to give liquid liner depth.  This was really a lash and liner story so I went soft and minimal with the shadow. Since CZJ was wearing lilac we settled on a cool toned vibe for the eye in mauve, petal and pewter.

Liquid liner: Shiseido pen liner in Black. My tip: apply a very thin line along lash line from tear duct to end of eye. Let dry and thicken and extend line up and out toward temple.

Mascara: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide in Black. Catherine curled her lashes before and after applying mascara. She did a whopping three coats on top and a just a touch on the bottom. This look works best with a stop top lash line and crisp but minimal bottom lash line.

Brow: Vanitymark Ultra-Brow in Dark Choco. Since the hair has an upswept, Ursula Andress vibe, I defined Catherine's brow with a lot of structure to balance the uber-glam feel.

Highlighter for tops of cheeks: LORAC illuminating powder in Spotlight. Great warm, champagne hue is perfect for deeper skin tones or tanned skin.

Lips: Lip liner: MAC Whirl. Lipstick: Lancome Pink Preview. Gloss: Smashbox Golden Purple. My first thought was to use just the matte lipstick. Catherine wanted something that would pop on the red carpet and stage so we added a glaze of the Smashbox gloss over top to add drama.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Free Samples Anyone?

Isn’t it funny how our ear’s perk up every time we hear the word “free?”  We may or may not have any interest in the free offering, but hey, it’s free! 

If that describes you at all, you’ll love the Daily Free Sample from All You.  Actually, you’ll love the entire All You website, full of tips to “Enjoy Life for Less.”  Back to the samples though, sign up and you’ll get one email each morning with the sample listing, if you want it, provide the necessary info and you’re the proud new owner of a free sample!  Alright, no it’s not a new car, but this is the best way to try out a new product or something you haven’t used before, and the toothpaste, tampon and laundry detergent samples have “saved” me numerous times when I forgot I was out of whatever it was I needed.  Phew.  Catastrophe averted.

Visit AllYou.com today or sign up here for their free samples.

Enjoy Dolls!

Monday, October 17, 2011

Out and About - Kelly Rowland and Denise Richards

Kelly Rowland rocked her autumn outfit, which included a pair of Goldsign “Sissi” flare leg jeans in Creator, as she arrived at London’s Fountain studios to coach her finalists for the X-Factor on October 14th.  Available for $288 at Saks.  We also adore the pop of color she added with her Quilted Chanel.

Kelly Rowland

Denise Richards was spotted at Edit New York before heading to 30 Rock to do some fall shopping for herself and daughters and also picked up a baby gift for BFF Tori Spelling, which included a blanket, rattle, suitcase and more (hopefully this wasn’t intended on being a surprise!). 

Denise Richards 1Denise Richards 3Denise Richards 2

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Do Good While you Shop in October–These Products Benefit Breast Cancer Awareness!

Light Up Your LipsElizabeth Grant’s Light Up Your Lips in Sweet Pink – 20% of online sales from this pretty pink gloss will go to Breast Cancer Awareness programs.  This high pigment, ultra shiny, deeply hydrating and drumroll please…NOT STICKY gloss also has a LED light and mirror attached right to the tube for necessary touchups!  $20.

 

Dr. Remedy's Positive PinkDr.’s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish in Positive Pink – 20% of the proceeds from this pastel polish purchased at an Everything But Water store or their website will go to Living Beyond Breast Cancer.  A lovely, healthy splash of toxin-free, vitamin-enhanced color for your nails.  $17.

 

 

 

Itty Bitty BraPink Signature Itty Bitty Bra – 10% of all sales from the bra will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.  In addition another 10% of all sales of the reusable Silicone Breast Petals in nude and brown will also be donated.  The popular line, created for women from the small to average size range combines comfort and style to the underserved market of women who fall within a smaller size range.  $50.

 

 

 

Vapour OrganicVapour Organic Beauty’s Honor Gloss – This all natural, organic lip gloss named “Honor” for BCA has 100% of its proceeds going towards research for the breast cancer vaccine for the entire year!  Breast cancer survivor and co-founder Krysia Boinis says, “The disease changed my life and helped me realize how important it is for women to use safe, non-toxic beauty products on their skin everyday. The full Vapour line is formulated with food-grade, certified organic botanicals and pure, natural pigments and vitamins, so they are safe for everyone and gentle enough for those undergoing breast cancer treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy.”  $22.

 

 

 

Embrace LaceWacoal’s Embrace Lace – Shown is the limited-edition Breast Cancer Awareness Bra in Fig/Very Berry is not only gorgeous, but through the 16th, $2 of every purchase goes to support the efforts of Susan G. Komen for the Cure (click link for other available styles).  In addition, attend one of the Fit for the Cure events in your city for a complimentary fitting and Wacoal donates an additional $2 to the cause. 

 

ToccaBeautyblender – 10% of all product sales will go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.  The ultimate make-up sponge applicator is shown inside of this travel kit which retails for $23.95.

 

 

Tocca 2TOCCA’s Laundry Delicate Washes – Leaving fine fabric gently fragranced with intoxicating aromas this works well for both hand-washing the machine’s delicate cycle.  Your delicates will thank you both at home and while traveling with either the 8 oz. Laundry Delicate (shown) or the TSA friendly Travel Set (four 2 oz. bottles).  15% of net sales from the above products will be donated to Living Beyond Breast Cancer.  $15 and $22 respectively. 

Swarovski CrystallizedChic Glamour Bracelet – Proudly supporting the American Breast Cancer Foundation, this bracelet is adorned with Swarovski Elements™ is elegant and will never go out of style.  $58.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Get the Look: Camilla Belle at the Crystal Quill Awards

Camilla BelleNot surprising, Camilla Belle looked gorge last week at the Crystal Quill Awards.  Below, the man who created the look, celeb makeup artist Brett Freedman, shares his tips for achieving this look yourself.

Apricot lip! Bronze-y cheek! Copper liner...oh my! It all starts with the dress. What to do with a bold print in black and rust. Do you match a lip to the orange? Do you go fleshy and make the color of the dress a non-issue? Ahhh, the options to weigh. Here's the make-up choices I made for Camilla Belle's appearance at the Crystal Quill Awards help at the Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles, and why:

Prep: Murad Pomegranate moisturizer. Lightweight and super sheer. Perfect for under make-up.

Base: Make-up Forever HD. Love the finish of this foundation. Covers yet never looks heavy or too opaque.

Concealer: Laura Mercier Camo. I picked a tone that exactly matched her skin/base. I didn't want a 'spotlight' under the eye. I wanted it to be very fleshy/natural.

Powder: Shu Uemura Loose. I used very little powder. Just enough to set the face but I def wanted a dewy finish.

Blush: A combo: Stila Convertible in Gerbera (on apples and swept up toward temples) and Jemma Kidd's shimmery 3 tone bronzer over top. I felt the Stila blush alone felt a little to sweet and daytime so I warmed it up with bronzer with shimmer so it would still photograph like a cream blush.

Brow: Camilla is so famous for her brows. I liken them to Liz Taylor's fab arches. Full and tailored so they feel modern yet casually sexy. I used Dark Choco brow powder from my own line, Vanitymark, to fill in a touch lighter than her hairs so they look defined but not filled in and pasted on. I wanted them to have depth.

Eyeshadows: I used the Shu loose powder on her lids to keep them light, fleshy and matte. MAC Shroom shimmery shadow on the brow bone. For the crease I went very subtle and nude with MAC's Wedge.

Liquid eyeliners: Camilla had the idea to do a liquid liner, cat eye vibe. I agreed it would be very striking and balance the theatricalness of the dress. I first did a very think line of Shiseido's pen liner in black from the tear duct to the outer corner, finishing with a upsweep toward the temple. Over top of that I use a bold copper liquid liner (Prestige in Legend) along the top of that line (when it dried). This was to pop some interest in the eye and give a subtle nod to the dress. My tip: Def make sure the black liner is dry so both lines are crisp.

Mascara: I really wanted it to be a lash party. I used Benefit's They're Real mascara and curler before and after applying.

Lip: I toyed with just doing a clear lip balm on Camilla's lips but I felt it might be too low watt with the dress. To add some impact I went with a glossy lipstick by Jemma Kidd in Sugar Cane. I heart that it has a touch of gold so it's universally flattering and instantly looks downtown, no Palm Beach ;)

Body: LORAC's TanTilizer mixed with Dermalogica body lotion. I like the soft lift of color with an almost mother or peal finish. Pretty!

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Rebecca Minkoff Fans: Amazing Offer through Refinery29 Reserve

$100 at Rebecca Minkoff for just $50?  While the math might seem off it’s an A+ in our book all due to a new partnership between her and Refinery29 Reserve.  For a limited time only, spend $50 and get $100; $100 and get $200.  Check out Reserve for details and hurry, offer ends 10/18!

My recommendation?  This Perforated Leather Biker Jacket…L-O-V-E love it!

Peforated Leather Jacket

Hey Chicago! Elizabeth Adam Salon and Day Spa Taking Part in Spa Week!

It’s finally here….Spa Week!  The week where spa-goers can receive top treatments for just $50, yep, just $50!  Chicago inhabitants are going to love the fact that for the first time ever, Elizabeth Adam Salon and Day Spa is participating in Spa Week.  Perched on the 9th floor of The Water Tower Place on Michigan Avenue, and with an amazing view of the city, this winner of “Best Facial in Chicago” from Chicago Magazine is offering three completely different and fab treatments for a mere $50.  I was fortunate enough to try each of them yesterday so if you’re looking to try something new, read my reviews below.

ECHO 2 The Oxygen Treatment Facial

The Lowdown: Reducing the effects of aging, this nourishing facial is made complete with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, and of course, the pure oxygen molecule.  Penetrating skin pore by pore, this revolutionary treatment will leave your skin healthy, rejuvenated and beautiful.

What to Expect: Soothing music and dim lights already lure you into relaxation mode before a finger even touches your face.  As essential minerals, oils and steam are distributed, soothing hands work out your tense spots and your left somewhere between reality and un-consciousness.  The Oxygen flows towards the end of the treatment leaving you pondering whether it’s actually Oxygen or cool trickling water…very unique! 

The Verdict: If five stars were available, I’d give it ten!  Soothing, relaxing, informative…this really was amazing.  What you might not like is the steam that does come down for several minutes from above.  To me, it felt soothing and cleansing, but I do know people that are not steam lovers and might want to have the stream adjusted slightly (which wouldn’t be a problem).  Also check out their Red Carpet Celebrity Treatment (not part of current special, but sounds DIVINE)!

M’Lis Slimming Contour Body Wrap

The Lowdown: Used for either inch loss or detoxification and lymphatic cleansing, this helps free and remove trapped waste in the connective tissue eliminating internal disfiguring deposits and stimulating inch loss.  Contour Cream helps stimulate the lymphatic circulation while the wrap acts as an acupressure to push the lymphatic fluid into the thoracic valve, circulating toxins back into the blood stream to eventually get filtered out through the liver and kidneys, promoting permanent inch loss.

What to Expect: This is not for someone afraid to “bare it all!”  Paper panties are given to cover your most sensitive areas as the contour cream is slathered from head to toe (or neck to ankle).  Once on, you are literally tightly “wrapped” in plastic wrap and then able to relax on the massage table for about 45 minutes before being “cut” out of the wrap and appendages are “exercised.”

The Verdict: If someone were to describe this to me a week ago, I would have thought, “how do you relax in those circumstances?”  Yet, I was out as soon as my head hit the pillow.  Unlike a massage where you feel the effects as they’re happening, this isn’t something immediate.  Relaxing yes, but you’ll need to go into it knowing the internal benefits are not necessarily “felt,” but rather achieved. 

Botanical Hair Remedy by Aveda and Hair Blow Dry

The Lowdown: Starting with a basic head, neck and shoulder massage, you are led into the shampoo room for your wash and treatment application.  From there it’s off to the dryer for a 10 minute dry allowing the treatment to penetrate both the scalp and follicle.  Once rinsed, it’s time for the relaxing blowout….ahhhh.

What to Expect: More basic yes, but still, there’s something about someone else shampooing your hair that soothes and relaxes all at the same time.  Plus, the view from the salon is beautiful!  My hair literally has never felt so soft and smooth – I’m actually convinced it somehow belongs to someone else!

The Verdict: If your hair is damaged or color treated, this is a must to replenish and moisturize.  And the fact that you’re able to be pampered at the same time is just an added bonus!

Your Overall Experience

Regardless of the treatment, once at the Elizabeth Adam Salon and Spa, you’re led to a posh changing area where robe and slippers are waiting for you.  Individual locked “lockers” are there to safeguard all of your belongings.  Once changed, you will be taken to the waiting area, again, with a view to die for, as the friendly staff tends to getting you water or hot tea. 

The above Spa Week appointments are still available, so don’t delay, high recommendations for Elizabeth Adam Salon & Day Spa!  Call 312-288-8944 for scheduling.

Monday, October 10, 2011

The WEN® Experience–Hair Care Unlike any Other

WEN“Sorry doll, I have to wash my hair.”  Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on what you might be getting out of), today’s woman hasn’t been able to use that excuse for about 60 years, God bless the 50’s.  Things are changing though, and all for the better.

“Why?,” you might ask, “What’s new in the hair cleansing market?”  Celeb stylist Chaz Dean’s, WEN® Cleansing Conditioner, a drastically different cleanser, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler and leave-in conditioner all in one, is what’s new.  And ladies, washing your hair is now an experience unlike any other – say ta-ta to blah hair care.

So what exactly makes the WEN® line different from your typical hair-suds?  For starters, no suds!  That’s right, no lather, which also means no harsh ingredients found in your typical shampoos.  WEN® doesn’t strip your hair and scalp of much needed natural oils and you’re left with sheen locks that are moisturized and manageable also holding color better.

Also different is the way you now go about washing your hair, and while the methodical instructions may seem a bit dubious at first, I promise you won’t think so once you try it.  After thoroughly rinsing hair, dispense the appropriate amount (based on hair type) of Cleansing Conditioner into hands and massage into hair and scalp.  Mmmmm…honestly, the best part of my morning routine is this little scalp massage.  Comb through and leave on 3-5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. 

“The Experience” I described before is exactly that, an experience unlike any hair-washing experience I’ve ever had.  I was fortunate enough to snag a sample of the limited edition WEN® Fall Ginger Pumpkin Cleansing Conditioner which was the perfect combination of autumn scents, as I’m not a flower and fruit kind of girl…rich and luxurious is more like it!  Hair is left feeling clean, healthy and radiant.  In fact, I’m fairly certain I’m about to be cast as a hair model!

The cleansers, sans sodium laurel sulfate and only made with natural ingredients, are part of the entire Hair and Body Care Line, which includes styling products, nourishing treatments, body care, candles and other essentials.

Gone are the days of thinking shampoo is shampoo regardless of the price.  It’s not, and while I would consider the WEN® line higher end, it’s completely worth saving your pennies!  $32 for 16 oz.  Visit ChazDean.com for more info and full product line.

Friday, October 7, 2011

Leighton Meester at Edit New York

Celeb sight-seeing?  You should probably check out Edit New York as it seems the A-Listers are known to make appearances shopping for their favorite brands, Leighton Meester being the latest.  The Gossip Girl star picked up fall must-haves yesterday, October 6th, including a Proenza Schouler teal bag, KBL sunglasses, and a Thakoon striped sweater, which colleague Blake Lively snatched up earlier in the day!    Meester loved her new digs so much, she carried the bag and wore the sunglasses right out of the store.

Leighton Meester 1Leighton Meester 3

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Brett’s Beauty Battleship: Footloose Edition

 

Brett's Beauty Battleship

We know everyone is ready for the debut of the new Footloose (October 14th) and just like us regular folk, stars were excited for the premiere Tuesday night.  And again, just like us regular folk, some of their beauty looks were successes while others were, well…less than stellar.  Beauty expert and makeup artist to the stars Brett Freedman below fills us in on who rocked the red carpet and whose looks needed a little more tending-to in this edition of Brett’s Beauty Battleship!

DIRECT HIT!
Ashley Tisdale: Raise the flag that she's right on trend with the bright lip and crisp eye. It's interesting to see blonde starlets navigate the newer, sparser look in make-up. Playing up the eyes is so fun but to mix it up and do a brighter lip makes any gal look more fun and adventurous. The red lip is perfect in tone and texture. It feels satin-y and fresh. A lot of gals are having a hard time letting go of the glossed lip and with red it really is best to stay classic and clean. The black line is encasing the eye and smudged just a touch to soften, but not smoke. When doing this look, it's important to keep the under eye light and bright with concealer. A soft toned yet structured brow frame the eye nicely. I like the way she did a tousled 'do. The not so perfect texture keeps the over all look young and with a touch of fashion. Miss Ashley, I salute you!

NEAR MISS!
Julianne Hough: Of course she looks fabulous. Julianne always does. Let's play 'what if...'. First, when you have a neckline with that much interest, the hair always goes up. Always. So much going on up there, then you layer cascading waves over top and it's a little overkill. Make up is very pretty. A little safe for my taste. What if she had done a lip stain with a bit more color, in the family of the dress and did a crisp upper lash line and sparser underneath? A little Vargas-girly and naughty fun. Texture is important to watch. When a gal doesn't have a lot of lid you don't want to use anything with too much shimmer or frost in the crease. It pops focus and can make the skin on the lip more obvious. A couple tweaks and Ms. J would have danced her way to smooth sailing.

STARLET, YOU SUNK!
Jana Kramer: All hands on deck to blend Jana's eyeshadow. This mistake is common in this 'Kardashian era'.  Everyone wants dark, sexy Princess Jasmine eyes. Any gal can have them, but you need to make sure you keep the darkest parts of the shadow along the lash line. Dark shadow in the crease is great when used minimally and blended carefully. Jana's dark brown patches on the corners look dirty and low rent. Mix that with too full lashes that start too close the inner eye and you have beauty mutiny. Brows are a touch too dark and filled in looking. I'd suggest her using my Milk Choco eyebrow pencil. You want the fill in to be lighter than the hairs. Think Eva Longoria (a Milk Choco fan!) or JLo. A softer brow would make Jana's lashes the darkest thing on her face and add depth. As for the blush and lip, they look beautiful. Miss Jana, your over the top eyes are what got ya' walking the plank!

Footloose Battleship

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Time to Start Making your Lists!

Can you believe it’s already October?  Meaning, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukah, and New Year’s are right around the corner.  So what do you get the girl who has it all or the finicky female?  Trust us, she’ll love anything from Go-Girl, especially two of our fave products, the Holiday Season Kit and the Campus Girl Kit. 

Go Girl Holiday Season Kit

Holiday Season Kit: To help you survive the Holiday season and beyond, this kit contains a Purse-hanger, To-Do List, Gel Eye Mask, Tampon, Tissues, Umbrella, Sewing Kit, Mirror, Comb, Passport Cover, Deodorant, Advil, Make-Up Remover Towelette, Gum, Vaseline, 4 Strips of Chic Apparel Tape, 4 sheets of Lint-on-the-Go Sheets!®, 4 Strips of Hem-Help, a pair of Bug’N-Out Nipple Concealers, and a Smudge-Sponge.  $55.00

 

 

 

 

Go Girl Campus Kit

Campus Girl Kit: A survival kit for college life (and even just-right for the work-place)!  Kit includes Bookmark, Cotton Balls, Mouthwash, Advil Packet, Deodorant, Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Tampon, Mirror, Detergent, Sewing Kit, Rice Krispies, Folgers Packet, Loofah & Sponge, Gum, Microwaveable Popcorn, 4 strips of Chic Apparel Tape, 4 sheets of Lint-on-the-Go Sheets!®, 4 strips of Hem-Help, a pair of Bug’N-Out Nipple Concealers, and a Smudge-Sponge.  $45.00

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

DIY: Paul Cucinello’s “Doll Bangs”

We've all been there...either in need of a change, or just desperate with bangs that were once chic and are now painfully blah, we turn to the only thing that might help - scissors! What we're left with tends to be questionable, at best. Which is why when we needed a little at home tune-up, we turned to the one person we knew could help - Paul Cucinello, Beauty Expert and the Creative Director of the Chris Chase Salon in Chelsea. Cucinello who is constantly featured in publications like Lucky and Vogue and tamed tresses on shows like Project Runway, below dishes on how to achieve his signature "Doll Bangs." Scissors ready ladies and please, no more "blah" bangs!

Sometimes you want a big change without having to run to the salon (or drop a ton of cash!). Bangs could be the perfect solution. When done properly, a new fringe can draw attention to fab lashes, bring out your cheekbones and update your look in a flash. Here's how to create (or recreate) my Signature "Doll Bangs:”

Continue reading here…

Monday, October 3, 2011

Elizabeth Berkley in Goldsign Jeans

Yet another celeb is spotted wearing a pair of Goldsign jeans.  This time around, it’s Elizabeth Berkley in their “Misfit” slim leg jeans in Leslie while attending the Hogan by Karl Lagerfeld RTW Spring/Summer 2012 show cocktail party September 30th in Paris.  The Holiday 2011 style will be in stores later this year. 

Elizabeth Berkley