Friday, July 30, 2010

Chanel Fall Winter 2010 Haute Couture Comes Roaring In



CHANEL Fall 2010 Haute Couture is all about a new proportion, a modern comfortable femininity.  An exquisite collection, designer Karl Lagerfeld summons 1920's flappers with a mix of 1960's modern flair - a blending of gorgeous beading, sequins, lace (the big trend for Fall), fur and feathers on short dresses (there's not a single long dress in the collection) created to enhance the gentle softness of a woman's silhouette.


Lagerfeld says he wanted something differnt for this collection, a cleaning up so to speak.  No long sleeves, no long dresses, and tired of the movie star red carpet glamour and flouncy Belle Epoque styling he wanted simple elegance.  He created with moving around in mind, like "in the roaring twenties," he says, finally "(I) liked the idea of comfort."


The craftsmanship and sophistication of the designs conjure elements of Metiers d'Art and the Houses of Lesage, Lemarie, Massaro and Montex.  The embroidery and detailing of the collection is absolutely sensuous. One just cannot single out a favorite here, it's just too painful.  The short dresses are balanced by the volume of the sleeves, masterfully created boleros, the chunky bracelets and the sumptuous boots.


Symbolism abounds throughout the collection: the lion (Coco Chanel was a Leo), the sunflower, sunburst, the shining sun, a sign of strength and renewal.  The color palette appropriately autumn with chocolate browns, bronze, taupe, beige blended with midnight blues, cherry reds, cream, white, eggplant and black.



The beauty look for this collection was nothing short of genius as well.  Who better than to perfect the red lip than Chanel.  Peter Philips, Global Creative Director of Chanel Makeup, gave us the most delicious crimson red lip seen in ages. Using deep red lips and simple, nude makeup, the models were given a modern elegance. Here's the scoop on what Philips used to create this look:

(L-R) Backstage swatches, Chanel Rouge Coco Lip Color in Rivoli, Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color in Rouge Fatal, Chanel Les Ombres Quadra Eye Shadow in Enigma

"For the show, Karl Lagerfeld wanted to give a new dimension to Haute Couture makeup. He wanted contemporary hairstyles and makeup and a new sophistication: an everyday, easy to wear look. When Karl showed me his sketches, I realized that all the silhouettes had a touch of red on the mouth. The first suit he showed me was a deep magnificent red which I loved. The tone was given... The mouth and nails were going to be red! The idea was to take two classic makeup elements, a red lipstick and nail polish, and to create a contrast by emphasizing them in an ultra-modern fashion on a nude face." (Teen Vogue)

To create the look: Chanel Rouge Coco Hydrating Creme Lip Color in Rivoli, Chanel Les Ombres Quadra Eye Shadow in Enigma and Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color in Rouge Fatal (launching in October 2010).


Video courtesy of style.com
 
Chanel Fall/Winter 2010 Haute Couture shines bright.  The fashions are absolutely divine, the makeup simple yet gorgeous and new trends have been inspired with the chunky bracelets, quilted ankle boots, hair regrowth (did ya see those roots on the catwalk - yeah, that's apparently the next big thing too - whew), crimson lips, and lace (don't forget the lace - gonna be huge next season).  Many have noted this as Lagerfeld's best collection, a sentiment which he apparently loathes.  Why?
Lagerfeld believes, "Fashion is about going ahead, not about memory. When people want to be liked for what they did, they should stop."
So has all the creative genius that went into the Chanel Fall 2010 Haute Couture collection left him blank of ideas for the moment?
"No," quips Sir Karl, "I will be ready by tomorrow morning."
For more information on this equisitely sumptuous collection as well as backstage commentary, video and more with Karl Lagerfeld, visit Chanel.com.



images/photos: Chanel, Makeup and Beauty Blog (Chanel Quad in Enigma), Lacquer Bourdoir (Rouge Fatal), Style

Thursday, July 29, 2010

A Personal Invitation for You from Allure and Dior!



You are formally invited!

Ladies (and gents), this is a sweet little opportunity and I so hope you're in an area where you can enjoy this special event hosted by Allure and Dior. From July 29 – August 7, we beauty-lovers can discover the beauty routine that’s perfect for us with a specialized consultation with professional makeup artists from mega-beauty giant Dior.

Appointments can be reserved by clicking here and are available in the following areas:
FL, GA, MO, IL, KS, OH, KY, IN, AR, TN, SC, NC, VA, OK, TX, AZ, NM, NV, CO.

Your specialized beauty consultation will include tips and tricks for the hottest looks inspired by Diorshow artists. Enjoy, my angels! xo

Boscia Launches Long-Awaited Luminizing Black Mask TODAY!



Oooohhh, aahhhhh. The long awaited "Black Mask" from preservative-free skincare company Boscia is here!

Boscia's anti-aging, peel-off Luminizing Black Mask officially launched today (though I've seen it at my Sephora already ... hmmmm) and the folks behind the brand are betting this new skincare product will be a must-try, must-have item. It features high-performance active ingredients (been hearing a lot about active ingredients in skincare lately, huh), combined with pure botanicals sourced from around the world.

The Luminizing Black Mask is a powerful peel-off purifier that is said to boost skin’s clarity and radiance by minimizing hyper-pigmentation and refining pores. What sets this product apart from any other is the particular kind of peel-off delivery system. This mask adheres to the skin, forming an even, shiny, opaque black “veil.” Once the mask is completely dry, it is peeled off, stripping the dead skin and all impurities, while imparting all kinds of goodness simultaneously.

It's fine for all skin types and is rich in natural clays, minerals, extracts, vitamins and antiseptics – all infused to deliver exceptional deep-pore cleansing and exfoliation while drawing out impurities, bacteria and excess oil. In this way, it really is perfect for those women who want anti-aging benefits but also need assistance in preventing blemishes. It delivers powerful antioxidant protection to prevent future free-radical damage that results in wrinkles, dryness, and dullness.

Boscia’s new Luminizing Black Mask (2.8 fl oz.) retails for $34.00 and is available now exclusively at Sephora, sephora.com and bosciaskincare.com.

Stila One Step Correct


So here's a new product from Stila that's so visually pleasing to the eye you might just be tempted to pick one up for the "coolness" factor.  But this little bottle of goodness has lots to offer beyond its candy colored swirling helixes suspended in clear gel.



Stila One Step Correct is a primer, color corrector, brightener and anti-aging skincare serum that does it all with the help of Stila's Youth Revival Bio-Available Mineral Complex.



•Magician: Instantly makes imperfections disappear
•Multitasker: Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, pores and pigmentation
•Miracle Worker: Hydrates, controls oil and improves skin texture
 

The weightless, creamy formula blends imperceptibly into skin and won't clog pores or settle into fine lines. There's no funny looking tint as with some colored enhancers as this product blends colorlessly to compliment your skin tone leaving a smooth, even, flawless complexion.  The formula incorporates fabulous botanical ingredients like panax ginseng root extract, ginkgo biloba leaf extract, camelia leaf extract, arclay minerals, retinyl palmitate (vitamin A/retinol), anthemis nobilis flower extract and kaolin clay.



The revolutionary new One Step Correct contains 3 color-correcting brighteners:

•Green tone instantly neutralizes redness and conceals blemishes
•Lavender tone counteracts sallow undertones for a vibrant, energized look
•Peach tone brightens, illuminates and helps diminish the appearance of sun spots
 
Stila One Step Correct Skin Tone Correcting Brigthening Serum retails for $36 a 1 oz pump bottle and is available at Ulta.

Are Printed Magazines Obsolete?



In one word - HELL NO!

Forgive the swearing and sarcasm, but I want my voice to be heard loudly and clearly on this subject.  Printed magazines are not obsolete.  They are still very much appreciated, loved and wanted.  There is absolutely nothing that gives us the same experience as thumbing through the glossy pages of a magazine - no matter what the genre of that magazine might be.  Sports, home, cooking, fitness, art, my favorites - beauty and fashion - or other, all have their traditional place in the hearts and homes (and yes, even bathroom floor baskets and tables) of most American folk.  And we want them! We don't want them to go away.

taken from inside VIV magazine Jul/Aug

I've read way too many posts, articles, blog opinion etc. praising the virtues of electronic media over printed, and they do have their place.  It would be quite hypocritical (and ridiculous) of me to feign otherwise as here I am speaking out about printed media via my electronic medium blog.  However, comparing printed media to electronic is like comparing apples to oranges. 

taken from inside VIV magazine Jul/Aug 2010 edition - Click to enlarge images

Reading through the pages of my Allure magazine while relaxing on a white sandy beach during a long weekend's vacation gives me an altogether different experience than if I were to substitute that magazine for my mobile phone, an iPad, or my laptop/netbook computer.  One difference, at the very least, is the feeling it gives me.  And the quality of that experience. The variety of information, editorials, images, columns, and more on paper in that one book is all very different than clicking through numerous screens on a digital screen.

For me, magazines are therapeutic! They relax me. When I'm reading through a magazine, I'm very aware that I'm giving back to myself - it's "me time".  Magazine reading is even more than therapeutic for me, it's inspirational.  Now, some may argue, well it's meant to "inspire" you, especially where your wallet is concerned.  And while I'm certainly no idiot to the fact that a good bit of magazine content is dedicated to enticing me to buy, I also appreciate the creative ideas that go along with that piece, whether in a photograph of a well designed bedroom, a how-to article on makeup application for a flawless complexion, or a strategically illustrated image of a cocktail with naked bodies digitally added in the ice cubes to enhance the allure of the drink. I enjoy it. I don't want to see print magazines go away.

So support your favorite magazine's publishers.  Let them know you still want printed magazines.  Be willing to buy them on the newstand or subscribe to have them delivered to your front door.  They're worth it!  The quality of experience received only through this form of media is well worth the pricetag of a few dollars. 

Interested in subscribing to a magazine or two you like or want to renew, some sites offer highly discounted magazine subscriptions.  One such site is Magazines.com (get $5 off here) and there are many others as well as visitng the publishers' websites directly.  May you reap much enjoyment from your favorite mag! xo

images/photos: VIV Magazine (July/August 2010)

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Chanel's Trend Defining Nail Shade



Oh what love this gorgeous shade has already accumulated!  From first peeks on the fashion show runways to magazine editorial teasers, Chanel's nail lacquer shade Particuliere is enjoying quite the celebrity and beauty afficionado following. 

A mixture of all the good parts of chocolate brown, grey, cream, mauve and khaki and described as "putty" by those in the know, this little gem rocked Chanel's catwalk during the Spring 2010 runway show and everyone has been clamoring to get their hands on it since then. They still are!  This shade will definitely bring you into Fall 2010 in stunning glory with no problem, peeps. 

Take a look at how Chanel Particuliere measures up against Essie Mink Muffs and other taupe-y nail shades by skipping over to Michelle's swatches at All Lacquered Up and Jeanette's Swatchaholic.  It's the best of all of them me thinks.

For more information or to shop Chanel's Particuliere, visit Chanel beauty counters, Chanel.com and Nordstrom.

New! Korres Raspberry Antioxidant Liquid Lipstick



New from Korres, Raspberry Antioxidant Liquid Lipstick has a cooling, water-based formula that contains natural raspberry and pomegranate extracts to protect against free-radical damage and smooth lip lines for softer, more youthful-looking lips. It glides on with the creamy texture of a lip gloss and has the long-lasting, vibrant finish of a lipstick.

Everything I've tried from Korres I've been extremely pleased with.  My favorite lip balm, in fact, is their Lip Butter (have it in Quince, Jasmine and Pomegranate) for its buttery soft texture, soothing properties, rich hydration, and the fact that I can wear it to bed without getting it all over my pillow or have hair sticking to my lips.  It's the best balm I have by a longshot!

This new lip product promises to  be just as satisfying and I'm liking that it contains the fantastic for you ingredient of pomegranate.  Both the raspberry and pomegranate extracts provide antioxidant, line-smoothing benefits. These extracts are rich in antioxidant polyphenols that protect against free-radical damage and aging. The formula is also rich in certified organic acai palm pulp oil, which moisturizes and soothes lips creating a long-lasting, creamy texture. It comes available in five delicious shades. I really can't wait to try this new product.

As an eco-friendly and good-for-you brand, Korres creates the liquid lipstick without parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances and other yucky stuff. Raspberry Antioxidant Liquid Lipstick is exclusive to Sephora as this time and retails for $22. 

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

JETSETTER: A Trio of Hotel Fabulosity in New York

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Summer in New York!

When a girl finds a deal, she's gotta tell your friends about it. Those planning a trip to New York City, this one's for you.  With three phenomenal New York properties that run the gamut for every type of urban traveler - boho, uptown or dowtown chic, there's something for everyone. Your hotel options are: the Ace New York, the Surrey and the Gramercy Park Hotel. Dates are available into September, so whether you're itching to take a break from the beach for some nightlife or needing to check in on a beloved client (and take in a show while you're there), the Big Apple is ready to be taken in style.


ACE HOTEL
20 W 29th St.
New York, NY 10001
 
Jetsetter Review: Two blocks east of Penn Station, the 12-story Ace Hotel has the formula for cool figured out. Two hipster guys decked out in tats, vests and Buddy Holly specs are there at the front door to greet. Wildflowers are for sale in the entryway. The Ace Hotel proves that staying in an ultrahip hotel in NYC doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice class or comfort.

This hip hotel serves up a chill style with serious flea market finds (Hubble telescope chandelier) and curious collectibles (stuffed badgers). Housing the Stumptown coffee shop, the Breslin restaurant and the new No. 7 sandwich shop, this eclectic hotel is constantly filled with locals and foreigners, with an NYC atmosphere that is unexpectedly unique.


What's to love:
  • Bearded baristas at Stumptown Coffee
  • The ultimate gastropub, the Breslin Bar, and the delicious new sandwich shop No. 7
  • Musical amenities like vinyl record players; turntables can be requested from the front desk
  • The fun travel shop, No. 8
  • An in-house gym and four computer labs
  • Funky design style
What to know:
  • Bunk beds aren't for everyone. (There are other beds and room types available)
  • The Breslin is open late-night; it gets packed and can be tough to get a table or seat. Reservations are not accepted.
  • Not a typical tourist area; you'll have to walk a few blocks to get to the sights.
  • More of a hip college campus vibe than a traditional hotel scene.
   
 


THE SURREY HOTEL
20 East 76th Street
New York, NY 10021
 
Jetsetter Review: Perched on a posh, tree-lined block just east of Central Park between Madison and Fifth Avenue, The Surrey’s high credibility and low visibility make it a desirable location for those who like to stay under the radar. Guests can rub elbows with power players at the famed Café Boulud, the Parisian Bar Pleiades or at the new 17th floor roof garden. Taking inspiration from the quintessential Manhattan townhouse, The Surrey invites guests to experience New York as an Upper Eastsider.
 
The Surrey's salon rooms have an apartment-style feel. The furniture is residential, with clever design references like a 1920’s Art Deco walnut inlay bar or the 1930’s European lamp. Best of all, there’s an in-room bar with full size bottles and garnishes — no $15 minis here.

 
A perk of being at The Surrey is the award-winning food by executive chef Daniel Boulud (available in-room 24/7); the downstairs Café Boulud is known for some of the best French food in New York. The vest-and-tie-clad waiters serve with precision. The Café’s elegance, fine cuisine and high level of service are to be expected — and yet despite the Michelin star, it still feels like a neighborhood treasure that's meant for locals.

Leaving the hotel, one passes Upper East Side moms pushing strollers in 4-inch heels. Indulge at Michael Kors and Christian Louboutin boutiques on the block or opt for some window-shopping of the artful kind instead and peek inside the Gagosian Gallery.
 
What to love:
  • Hot new rooftop garden
  • Steps from Museum Mile
  • Bouloud Bar, Restaurant and room service
  • The Surrey Spa's “jet-lag renewal” treatment
  • Classic Upper East Side location, just one block from Central Park

What to know:
  • The somewhat more formal atmosphere may not appeal to everyone
  • Some rooms have interior-facing views
  • WiFi is $14.95 per day




GRAMERCY PARK HOTEL
2 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10010
 
Jetsetter Review:  The Gramercy Park Hotel was brought to life by the king of boutique hotels, legendary Studio 54 co-founder Ian Schrager. With the help of filmmaker and artist Julian Schnabel, Schrager turned the Gramercy into a highly styled mix of Pop Art, Baroque and organic elements, for a stunning bohemian effect. And it’s the only hotel in Manhattan with a key to Gramercy Park. The Gramercy may be grown up, but it’s a vibrant, spirited playground.
 
At the Gramercy Park Hotel, it’s all in the carefully selected details: velvet throws on the beds, comfy wing chairs, Mario Badescu moisturizer in the bathroom and cut crystal glasses that accompany the minibar. Clearly Schrager knows how to handle the little things that mean a lot to his clientele.

Guests play backgammon among original Warhols in the Ava Room; in the Sophia Room next door, there’s more art and a ceiling installation covered entirely with light bulbs. There’s more than $40 million worth of art on display throughout the hotel, including in the guestrooms, which boast classic Magnum prints.

The on-site restaurant Maialino serves Roman trattoria-style cuisine. It’s a Danny Meyer eatery, which pretty much guarantees an incredible dining experience.
 
What we love:
  • The scene at the Roof Club, complete with the occasional celebrity guest
  • Danny Meyer's trattoria-style Maialino restaurant
  • Art, art everywhere, from Warhols to more modern experimental pieces
  • An on-site gym that's actually worth using
  • Celebrity-spotting at The Rose Bar
  • One-of-a-kind surprise performances from artists like Rufus Wainwright and even Guns N' Roses
What to know:
  • Though the hotel is historic, the design is forward-thinking; traditionalists may prefer a different hotel
  • Since this is an older building, standard rooms are a bit smaller than newer hotels
  • The bars can be difficult to get into; reservations are required after 9 pm, though you may be bumped for a celebrity at any time


The Summer in New York - 3 Hot Hotels SALE ends 7/28/10 at midnight ET, so be sure to check them out for all the information, to hold your room or to visit other lovely travel destination opportunities.

Jetsetter is free to register, so please Be My Guest! xo
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