Blue Mercury + UWS = Beautylicious Booty

As if the Upper West Side needs another beauty emporium. I mean, we've got a Sephora, L'Occitane, and Origins all within a stone's throw. So I was a little reluctant to give neighborhood newbie Blue Mercury a shot without a little good-hearted kvetching first.

Open mouth, insert foot.

Like a kid in a candy store I played with all of my favorite beauty products (no really, the owner and I must've been separated at birth) to my heart's content. My new bath benefited as well; I scored a few candles and such to trick it out spa-style.

	L’Artisan Parfumer Blue Mercury Tocca Esfoliante da Corpo Stella Body Polish Blue Mercury Molton Brown Heavenly Gingerlily Candle Blue Mercury

3 Trends Done Right

I adore the maxi dress that Kristen Bell wore to the Forgetting Sarah Marshall movie premier in Los Angeles. It’s a brilliant blue Jenny Kayne in a very of-the-moment ikat print. Kudos to Kristen for successfully merging three hot runway trends without looking like a fashion victim. Since I don’t have a starlet’s budget I tracked down this sweet BCBG dress for just as much bang but a whole lot less buck.

Real Housewives of NYC?

Watched the finale last night of The Real Housewives of New York and it was ridiculous. So much happened I couldn't cover it all so lets just admire their final dinner.

Jill (who's a little more Lawng Island than Manhattan IMHO) wore the dress she picked out earlier in the season. Looked a little tight up top but the black bottom was sliming.

Alex looked like she found a first ladies' suit that was five sizes too big. Seriously, what was that?

The countess. I like her, she can wear most clothes, but that dress didn't seem appropriate. Did she get that at Rave 10 years ago? Perhaps.

Oh Ramona. She tries very hard. All I can say is Barbie mermaid.

And then there's Bethenny. She sometimes struggles in her personal life (according to her) but almost always has clothes that fit well and are appropriate. She looked great and I'm not a huge lace fan but kind of want that black dress. Unfortunately, I think it's sold out online but get a closer look at it and some of their other outfits here.

Now just look out for The Real Housewives of Orange County, season 4 is coming soon!

File This!

Yay! I love tax day. I can’t think of anything better than giving the government my hard-earned ducats.

Oh wait a minute…I could opt for this to-die-for Gerard Darel bag in the most delicious shade of purple a la Jessica Alba.

Unfortunately, at a whopping $895, Uncle Sam has other plans for my personal fund allocation. This tote from Forever 21 is a not-too-shabby substitute.

And at $19.80 I could throw in this cute wallet to start saving for that covetable pochette violette.

Bath Body and Beyond

April 14, 2008 Bath, Body and Beyond A recent bath reno has us crushin’ on new products to prettify a freshly-made-over loo – but they can’t just look pretty on the bath shelf, they have to actually work! These products pull double duty and satisfy our obsession with all things pretty AND functional. Tiny Bubbles. Girly potions have never been more plentiful, and as verifiable product junkies we couldn’t be more pleased. Hand soaps and body washes are a good way to pamper dry skin. If you have eczema, look for products with glycerin for its emollient benefits. We love discovering new treats in interesting bottles: case in point, the latest from L’Artisan Parfumer. “Jatamansi” comes in a great retro milk glass bottle and is filled with a delirious mix – part soft creamy floral, part herbal-incense. Oral Report. Unless you’re a child, toothbrush choices are usually limited to snooze-inducing colors and designs…with boring paste to match. But the days of dull dental accessories are over. Look for a set that injects a bit of style to your vanity (both teeth and bath). We like the urban-loft chic of a black-bristles-and-all Paul Smith toothbrush. Bathing Beauties. If it keeps you warm and dry, then a bathrobe has dutifully lived up to its obligations – but we’re not content to settle for ho-hum when we could upgrade to haute. For a feminine twist on the classic shapeless silhouette, look for fitted cuts; if you appreciate the nostalgia of vintage, go for a nubby chenille number. There are plenty on eBay or your local flea – it’s the perfect touch for a seaside cottage inspired bath. Robins Egg Soap Gianna Rose Atelier Pangea Organics Egyptian Basil and Mint Shower Gel Pangea Organics Marvis Toothpaste Mint Jasmine Amazon Paul Smith Toothbrush Paul Smith Victoria’s Secret Terry Hoodie Robe Victoria’s Secret Cotton Palace Cashmere/Chenille Microfiber Robe Cotton Palace

Fashion & Movies

Just read this short article "Fashion in Film" by David DeStefano on debonairmag.com. He lists 7 films that have influenced fashion. He has some good ones but I think he's missing some biggies.

There wasn't one mention of any Audrey Hepburn movies (Sabrina, Funny Face, Breakfast at Tiffany's). I know it seems cliche but the fashion helped make those movies so great. To this day people try to mimic her effortless chic style.

There was also a lack of 80's movies (American Gigolo aside). I know people are still embarrassed by some of the ensembles but they should be noted. Something from John Hughes/Molly Ringwald? Or what about St. Elmo's Fire? True, Rob Lowe's hair and earring look ridiculous now but he was the epitome of cool.

And I know this may be too recent but Clueless was a pretty big deal. Matching and planning outfits became important again. Plaid skirts, headbands and knee socks weren't just for private schools anymore. Oh yeah, and cell phones as accessories.

The list could go on forever. Any suggestions?

Strap Happy

Having recently booked our summer vacation to Sicily, I've been obsessed with finding cute beach accessories to indulge my inner Sophia Loren. I discovered that Urban Outfitters carries a really nice selection of gladiator and otherwise strappy sandals. It's going to be difficult to choose but here are a few of my faves.


Get them all online at Urban Outfitters.

Masked Avenger

Let’s face it; the beauty industry is filled with euphemisms to make us feel better about ourselves. By telling myself that my oily t-zone was “dewy” I had managed to avoid the underlying problem of my combination skin for longer than necessary. So last night, while watching Terri Hatcher butcher Carrie Underwood’s Before He Cheats on American Idol Gives Back I reached for my as-yet-untried sample of Seikisho Mask White.

According to Kose, the Japanese company that makes the product:

This effective mask is formulated with Nano Black Powder, which creates an airtight seal on skin to allow the ingredients to work quickly and effectively to flush out impurities.


• Seven herb extracts, such as Wormwood brighten skin tone, while Moutan Bark, Coix Seed extract and Angelica extract hydrates and regulates sebum production.

• Nano Black Powder allows for ingredients to absorb quickly and provides an airtight seal.

• 1st peel off mask to contain Vitamin C. It suppresses melanin production, which prevents the formation of aging spots and freckles.


The gooey petroleum looking gunk that oozed out of the cobalt blue tube freaked me out a bit but the formulated with “Oriental Herb Extracts” label hooked me so as instructed I slathered it on thickly and patiently waited the 20 minutes through my husband’s unrelenting jokes while the mask dried.

No lie - this baby is like Biore Strips on steroids, it grabs a bit so do exercise caution when peeling it off. Once removed what emerged was skin that was super soft, brighter, poreless and just plain CLEAN.
Given the vast improvement in my skin’s appearance – even after this one treatment, I’m eager to continue using it on a weekly basis to see how it changes my skin’s texture. I’d highly recommend this product for those with Oily or Combination skin types.

Buy it at Beauty.com

Who Should Be Crowned Bret's Rock of Love?

The latest debate in our office centers around Bret Michaels' love life. Ditzy Daisy with her fake hair, boobs, lips, and nails or Ambitious Ambre with her steady job and (somewhat more) down-to-earth sensibility?

Cast your vote for the girl you think Bret should give an eternal backstage pass to!

Opinion Polls & Market Research

A Stylish Gal's Guide To Good Deeds

Stumbled upon this from the good folks at Daily Candy and love the idea:

April 8, 2008
Rock Out with Your Frock Out
DonateMyDress.org

You lost a lot on prom night. The corsage was gone before you even reached the dance floor, and your updo came undone before pictures. And then there was, uhm, never mind.

One thing you held on to: your dress. And now you can lose that too for a good cause. The just-launched site DonateMyDress.org lists gown drives across the country, so you can find out where to ditch yours (and ditto for those looking to find one). Bridesmaid and special occasion frocks also fit the bill.

While you’re there, check out the heartwarming photos of happy gals in their prom garb, read letters from those you’ll be helping out, and find out how to become a mentor if you’ve got the time.

After all, it’s just like you to give it up.

Available online at donatemydress.org.

Trends Report: Suit Yourself

April 8, 2008 SUIT YOURSELF Pardon us, your image is showing. Right or wrong we are judged on appearance. In fact, within the first thirty seconds you meet someone an indelible impression is formed that is hard to change. 55% is based on what you are wearing and 38% is based on your “presentation” that is to say your body language. Since your sparkling personality and sharp intellect are in the bottom 7%, you’ll want to maximize that mind-boggling 93% percentage to your advantage. Nowhere is this truer than the ultimate first impression deal maker-breaker: the job interview. Unless you are interviewing for a highly creative or fashion-forward position, this is not your opportunity to rock the latest fads…you want your suit to say “I know what I’m doing” NOT “I just got a bargain on this chartreuse mini skirt!” A properly fitted wardrobe keeps your look polished and makes clothes appear tailor-made. Below are some general guidelines to consider when shopping for a suit. For more detailed information consult our Proper Fit Guide in your Bodyline Profile at www.alwaysinstyle.com. • Good suits are lined with silk, and the lining lays flat. Anything less and fabric will bunch up projecting a lumpy, ill-fitting silhouette. • If the suit has a pattern like a check or print of any kind then coordinates should match when worn together. Nothing breaks up a look like pinstripes that don’t line up or mismatched patterns. • Your lapels should be reinforced to help them lie flat. • Steer clear from fabric that is too shiny, wrinkly, or clingy. These are three characteristics that don’t belong in the boardroom. (Or anywhere else for that matter). • Pleats and darts should not pull apart, no gaping at the bust, and pockets should remain closed. Go up a size and have pieces tailored to your dimensions. • If you’re wearing a pencil skirt or straight cut trousers the fabric should hang straight from the buttocks, not curve under. Again, these signs are indicative of clothing that is too small. Go a size up for a more flattering fit. And finally – if it doesn't fit, don't buy it, even if it's on sale. Chances are it will end up at the back of your closet sacrificing precious closet space that would be better used for this season’s Must-Haves in your size and style. Pinstripe Suit Ann Taylor Cotton-linen Ottoman Toulon jacket & pencil skirt J. Crew Bird’s Eye Suit Jacket & Fluted Skirt Banana Republic Signature Two-Way Stretch Suiting Spiegel Lavender Black Pantsuit J.C. Penney Lightweight Stretch Wool Suit Talbots

Run, Girl, Run!

This weekend I traded in my Jimmy Choo's for running shoes and completed the More Magazine's Half-Marathon in Central Park.

It was a little chilly, and admittedly I am a lot out of shape, but although my knees and thighs are still burning with pain I have no regrets...nothing can compare to the sense of accomplishment that washes over you the moment you cross the finish line.

The race is targeted for women 40+ so there were lots of mother/daughter teams and a general vibe of good will and support that I haven't encountered in other races that I've participated in. And I can't think of anything more stylish than that!

Now, if only I could find those wonderful guys and gals who cheered me on at each mile marker in my everyday life. Or maybe they do exist and I just need to tune in more closely.

Happy trails....

Kim
Style Editor

Anna Sui Does Deco Right

I adore Art Deco design and this Anna Sui dress embodies all that makes it an enduring style statement: elegant, functional, and thoroughly modern.

Supermarket Jewelry!

I LOVE this necklace. What better way to get ready for the new SATC movie? Trashy Deluxe has some other fun pieces but this is my favorite (the "expensive" necklace is a close second).

Supermarket is a great site, all the work comes directly from the designers, so check it out.
Supermarket

New York Street Beat: Nailed It!

April 3, 2008 NAILED IT New York is a city of extremes – $1 million smackers for a 400 sq. foot studio? Gosh, where do I sign?! It comes as no surprise that chic but cash-strapped city dwellers are well-versed in the shortcuts, quick tips, and insider info that make quality of life a little bit richer. One such savvy coed let us in on a little secret she uses to extend time between nail salon visits. As a Fine Art major with a penchant for large-scale installations, Natalie’s nails take a beating. Her low-cost and highly creative fix for torn nails? Tea bags. Just cut a small piece and affix over the torn area with a dab of quick-drying glue. File gently to remove any stray bits. Once set, finish it off with a top coat to seal the deal. 5 Second Nail Glue Walgreens Lippmann Collection Nail Essentials Smooth Operator Nail Buffer Beauty.com Essie Super Duper Top Coat Banler.com

Sneak Preview!! Urban Decay Summer 2008

We love the idea of incorporating the bright colors trend with eye makeup. Perfect for the carefree days (and nights) of summer!