Fiona Paxton necklace

I recently saw this hot necklace on Halle Berry, which she wore during an interview on NBC’s Nightly News to discuss her work with the Jenesse Center – a shelter for domestic violence victims.


This stunning necklace is from a designer called Fiona Paxton. It's a hand-beaded metal patterned necklace with swags of fine chain references the ancient patterns of east and west, interlocking to create statement costume jewelry that is both modern and contemporary. This picture shows it in oxidized silver but it also comes in gold and light silver. In this economy it is a little pricey at $300, but the holidays are coming and you deserve a nice little present from your significant other. It's available at http://www.bloomingdales.com.

Hot spring shoes from Steve Madden

Steve Madden has some fabulosity coming your way for Spring 2010. I got a sneak peak of the upcoming line, which includes all your favorite flats and sky-high heels in fun fabrics, colors and embellishments.

Stand tall in Trezure, a platform strappy heel featuring turquoise, yellow, coral and red tribal embellishment, or stay grounded in Tirah, a boy-meets-girl round-toe brogue in white with basket weave leather work.

Make sure to also look out for twisted, woven, braided,

buckled and strapped-leather sandals in bright colors; peeptoe ankel boots in treated leathers featuring studs, laces, straps and zippers, and wedges in neutral colors in a combination of textures.

Shoes drop in stores between January and March.

Photos courtesy of Steve Madden

Nothing was more embarrassing than the time I was looking for something in my handbag and a big old pad fell out in public onto the floor. I’m sure some of you ladies can relate! Well, I’m here to tell you about a cool new product that was sent to me for review called Moxie. It is a feminine hygiene product company based in Australia, which recently launched here in the U.S at Duane Reade and www.duanereade.com.

Moxie is quite impressive. Not only is the packaging exquisite but also the product itself is excellent. The pad actually sticks and stays on, which for me is a rare occasion when that happens.

The pads come in cute 1930's-esque candy-striped 'boudoir boxes' as well as a reusable and recyclable tin to hold the pads. No more worrying about pads coming out of their wrappers or falling out of your purse. Just carry this supercute tin and no one even knows what it is inside!!

Moxie is available in four different styles including: Slenders Pads (regular size pad), Sleepovers Pads (longer pad for overnight use), Slenders Panty Liners (for light days), and Scanty Panty Liners (everyday use between periods). Prices range from $4.99 to $6.49.

WWHOW! website

I recently came across a pretty cool website that I wanted to share with you. It's called WWHOW! or What did you pay, Where did you pay and How much did you pay. Basically, you put in your zip code and the type of product that you're looking for, and if there is a deal to be had a list will pop up.


For example, I've been looking for a new stroller for my daughter so I did a search in NYC and Albee's comes up with multiple sales on baby items and a Quinny stroller for 50% off!!!!


I invite you to check it out as well by clicking here. I hope you find some great deals in your area. Happy shopping!!!

Rodial & Hautelook sale event

Rodial Skincare and Hautelook teamed up to offer you 45-60% off Rodial's body and skincare products exclusively for Hautelook members on October 19th and 20th.Rodial has a range of super-effective skincare that deliver targeted treatments to specific skin concerns from wrinkles and age spots to cellulite and stretch marks. After I had my baby, I personally used the Rodial Stretch Mark Eraser and it's a fabulous product. I noticed a difference between two and three months.

Other items in the line include:Glam Balm, Glamtox Peel, Glamtox Eye Light SPF 15, Glamtox SPF 18, Glamtox Night, Glam Balm Wipes, A-List Cleanser, Jet Set Cleanser, Bum Lift, Body Sculpture, Tummy Tuck, Boob Job, Crème de la Crème, and Power Body Buff.

If you're a Hautelook member make sure to log on first thing Monday to get your pick of products.

Betsey Johnson on Gilt FUSE

My favorite designer and probably the coolest designer around, Betsey Johnson will be having an amazing sale starting tomorrow, Friday October 16 on Gilt FUSE starting at noon.

I have a sneak-peak of some of Betsey's fabulous items that will be on sale. Check them out below and don't forget to sign in tomorrow at 12 noon!!


Washed Chiffon Blouse
MSRP $278 Gilt Price $94


Scallop Dress
MSRP $425 Gilt Price $144


Cotton Lycra Huge Rose Dress
MSRP $295 Gilt Price $98


Handkerchief Mini
MSRP $328 Gilt Price $108

Eco-friendly bags from b.b. begonia

I recently came back from Lavallette, NJ, a wonderful, relaxing, family-oriented beach town next to Seaside Heights (Jersey Shore). It was my first vacation with my beautiful little girl, Sophia who will be 10 months next week. Since this was my first trip to the beach with my baby it also meant more things to bring to the beach, which is where my new b.b. begonia bags came in handy.

I first came across these bags from an event I attended in NYC. Not only are the bags reusable and eco-friendly but they come in cool prints and colors. I used my b.b. begonia bag as a makeshift diaper bag to go to and from the beach instead of having to take my cumbersome diaper bag. It worked well because these bags are really light and the straps are great because they are nice and long and feel comfortable on the shoulder. The bags are also waterproof, which is perfect for going to the beach and/or pool.


If you're in the market for a reusable bag I definitely recommend buying one from b.b. begonia. The bags retail for $9 each and can be found at http://www.bbbegonia.com.

Get Your Brows in Shape with Anastasia Soare

Get Your Brows in Shape with Anastasia Soare

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M·A·C Cosmetics and Mad Men

M·A·C Cosmetics and Mad Men

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SNEAK PEAK at Anna Sui collection for Target

If you're a big Anna Sui fan like I am, I know you have been dying to catch a sneak peak at her collection for Target, which hits stores September 13th. Next week YAY!!!


Ranging in price from $19.99-$149.99, the line includes a variety of soon-to-be-obsessed with seasonal staples including sweaters, blouses, dresses, cropped pants and mini skirts. Even though the prices are much lower than her regular line, Anna stays true to form by combining her glamourous, whimsical, rock-star chic design elements that she is known for. Take a look at some of the designs below and make sure to mark your calendar for September 13th !!

From left to right: Long-Sleeve Tablecloth Dress in Ivory $69.99, Foulard Printed Dress with Elastic Belt in Blue $44.99, Metallic Bouclé Dress with Sequin Feather Detailing in Gray $69.99, Silk Off-The-Shoulder Striped Dress in Ivory/Red/Black $59.99

Happy Shopping!!!

Eco-friendly totes from Anna Sui exclusively at Target

Target is taking recycling to new, fashionable heights this fall. Starting Labor Day weekend through October 31, Target will be featuring commissioned art from emerging artists like Michael Anderson and Josh Goldstein on its Times Square billboards, When the art exhibit ends, the billboards’ vinyl will then be transformed into 1,600 limited-edition, upcycled bags, using a tote bag designed by fashion maven Anna Sui, merging her love of art and fashion.
The tote bags offer consumers the opportunity to own a piece of one of the world’s most famous neighborhoods, Times Square. Each bag is made of 90% recycled flex bulletin vinyl, and features rock-and-roll details like black enamel studs.

The tote bags, destined to be the eco-friendly “it” bag of the season, will be available for purchase for $29.99 at Target.com/billboardbag on September 4 while supplies last. Purchasers will be able to select which artist’s work they prefer to have recycled into their tote bag. The bags will be shipped to buyers in early January.

Heidi Klum's bump style!

If you're still looking for a cool pair of gladiator sandals check these out from Steve Madden. Supermodel Heidi Klum was spotted recently wearing them out for a stroll in Beverly Hills.
It's nice to see a celeb being smart and wearing sensible shoes while pregnant!!

Quiksilver celebrates Fashion's Night Out Sept. 10th!!

This is a shopping event not to be missed!

Quiksilver Women’s invites you for DIY in celebration of Fashion’s Night Out. On Thursday, September 10^th, spend the day with Erica Domesek, Do-It-Yourself maven of PS I Made This, the go-to site on how to accessorize your life with recycled materials and inventive ideas.

Join Quiksilver Women’s at their “DIY Bar” at the newly opened Tia’s Place in Grand Central Station where you can paint, marker and creatively repurpose your own clothing or accessories to the hottest Fall trends.

The event is September 10th from 12pm-11pm at Tia's Place, Grand Central station.

Free woman’s silk scarf or men’s woven belt with the purchase of any Martin + Osa denim

Starting September 2- 7, all-American brand Martin + Osa is offering a free woman’s silk scarf or men’s woven belt with the purchase of any denim.


With their guaranteed, best-fit selection of jeans, never has there been a better time to stock up on your favorite staple to carry you through season to season!


M+O is the one-stop-shop for all denim needs. The giveaway will be available at all Martin + Osa store locations. Please visit www.martinandosa.com for locations.

Win a trip to see Erin Fetherson show at NYC Fashion Week

NYC Fashion Week is just around the corner! ShopBop and Erin Fetherson are offering you a chance to win a trip to see the Erin Fetherson Fashion Show in September. You only have until August 27th to enter. Enter here: http://ebm.whatsnew.shopbop.com/r/regf2?aid=1135692905&n=1&a=0&SOURCE1=erin&SOURCE2=erinf

After you enter the contest take a look at Erin's third short film titled “Birds of a Fether” on Style.com. The film is beautifully shot, stylish and just plain cool! Would you expect anything less from Erin? Directed and produced by director/photographer Marisa Crawford, Birds of a Fether’
showcases the designer's Autumn-Winter 2009/2010 collection. The film's hip cast includes actress Paz De La Huerta, model/actress Ingrid Schram, models Daria Strokous, Kelsey Close, Rudi Ovchinnikova, Sacha Blue, and Karina G.

The film is just under 5 minutes and it is loosely inspired by the tale of the pied piper, showing Fetherston uncovering a magical trumpet which has washed ashore beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. Under the power of its enchantment, the designer takes to the streets of New York City and begins to collect a following of characters who emerge from the stoops and windows of the city's apartments, restaurants and ally-ways, all of whom are drawn to the magic. Fetherston and her collective, all dressed in the designer's collection, carry on in a near manic and highly visual procession through the streets of the West Village and Tribeca.

Click this link to see Birds of a Fether: http://www.style.com/video/guest-directors/guest-directors/1896809785/embirds-of-a-fetherem/33805471001

Rodarte to launch affordable limited-edition collection for Target

Target announces Rodarte as the next limited-edition designer for GO International^®, an innovative program designed to offer guests reasonably-priced fashion created by world-renowned designers. Kate and Laura Mulleavy will launch their exclusive collection available at most Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com. The women’s fashion collection will launch on December 20, 2009, and be available through January 31, 2010.

Rouge Tomate Restaurant

My husband and I recently visited Rouge Tomate, a fairly new restaurant serving Contemporary American cuisine, which opened in October 2008 on the Upper East Side (10 East 60th Street between 5th and Madison Ave) near Barney's. Rouge Tomate utilizes local purveyors and sustainable ingredients as well as adheres to the principles of SPE (Sanitas Per Escam).

SPE is a culinary and nutritional charter developed by chefs and nutritionists and is based on a genuine respect for ingredients and the crafting of balanced dishes that naturally marries thoughtful, well-executed cuisine with authentic nutrition. Executive chef Jeremy Bearman and executive pastry chef James Distefano collaborate with culinary nutritionist Natalia Rusin on sweet and savory dishes to ensure that each follows the principles of SPE.

From their decor, service and food, Rouge Tomate was quite impressive. It is clean andmodern with a sleek bar, a towering wall of fine wines and fresh apples in square glass bowls accentuating the freshness of the restaurant. Rouge Tomate is inviting, warm, non-pretentious and boasts an excellent, knowledgeable and attentive staff.

We were in the mood for a nice, cold non-alcoholic cocktail and the waitress suggested a drink from their hand-crafted cocktail menu called the strawberry blonde lemonade, which is made with strawberry basil syrup, lemon juice, fresh basil. It was the most refreshing drink I have had in a long time. The basil and strawberry concoction works very well together. I can't recommend this drink enough!!

After we had our delicious drinks, we moved onto our chickpea hummus, flatbread and marinated olives appetizer followed by the chilled vegetable gazpacho with mango, avocado, mint, and basil, compliments of the chef. The gazpacho reminded me of warm summer days when tomatoes actually had some taste of sweet tanginess.

For our entrees, my husband had the fresh maine lobster salad drizzled with a passion fruit vinaigrette and I chose the house-made spaghetti pomodoro with vine-ripe tomato, summer squash, garlic, capers, and basil. Now onto dessert, which is of course the most important part of a meal! We tried the nectarine with a honey roasted, buttermilk-lemon shortcake and toasted almond milk sherbet and the local strawberry with banana, orange and bourbon vanilla, anise-hyssop sherbet. Neither one disappointed! Not only did they taste amazing but you actually felt good eating these desserts because you knew they were made with a health factor in mind due to the use of locally grown ingredients and a nutritionist helping with the creation of the desserts to keep in part with the rules of SPE.

When you need a place to go for lunch whether it be from work or from all the great shopping on 5th and Madison Ave, I highly recommend a visit to Rouge Tomate. It is well worth the time and money. I know I'm looking forward to my next visit!!

Bone Suckin' Sauce

Recently, I attended the Fancy Food Show at Jacob Javits in New York City. It was my first time attending this show and I have to say I was very impressed by the amount of booths and the yummy food and samples that each booth offered!!!!


As I'm walking around, I come upon a booth with a name that makes you want to stop and find out exactly what it is. It was the Bone Suckin' Sauces booth and it is an internationally acclaimed line of sauces and seasoning rubs for grilling and marinating. I was thrilled that I scored a sample of one of their newest rubs called Bone Suckin' HOT Seasoning & Rub. I used it that very evening to make my chicken and it was delicious!! The rub promises to be that perfect combination of sweet, spicy and salty and it definitely delivers. The best part about the Bone Suckin' products is that it contains NO MSG. They are all-natural and gluten free.


I strongly recommend trying one of the Bone Suckin' sauces and/or rubs. Other products in the Bone Suckin' line consists of: Sweet Mustard, Salsa, BBQ sauce (#1 rated by Newsweek), Habenero Sauce, and Teriyaki.

Calling all Fashionistas, Shopaholics and Party Goers!

Get a first look at the new Quiksilver Women’s Fall 2009 collection as Quiksilver and American Rag host an evening of complimentary cocktails and shopping! With every $100 spent, customers will receive their very own Quiksilver Women’s eco-friendly t-shirt.

Friday, August 7th

4pm – 7pm

American Rag at Los Angeles

150 S La Brea Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90036

HollywoodIntuition Collection Exclusively at Target

Celebrity style is available at guilt-free prices with the HollywoodIntuition collection exclusively at Target!

Target has partnered with Jaye Hersh, known for her high-end Los Angeles trendsetting boutique, Intuition, to launch the latest accessories collaboration, HollywoodIntuition. Hitting stores on Sunday, July 12th, the collection offers up-to-the-minute celebrity styles at prices that won’t break the bank ($2.99- $29.99).

Hersh has built a distinct niche in the fast-paced, ever-changing fashion business and brings her phenomenal sense of style to create this chic collection for Target. The collection includes a range of on-trend accessories as well as clear double-stick fashion tape. Celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Amanda Bynes and Jenna Dewan are fans of this fashionable collection.

We all know that the designer styles for Target never stay on the racks too long so hurry in and pick up these hot accessories ASAP before it's too late!!!

Snikiddy Snacks

At a recent event I was introduced to a great new snack called Snikiddy Snacks® Cheese Puffs and Whole Grain Cookies. The snacks are made with simple and pure ingredients including real cheese, butter, whole-wheat flour and unrefined cane sugar. Unlike many conventional
snacks, every single Snikiddy® product is absolutely free of trans fats, hydrogenated oils, high-fructose corn syrup and artificial flavors, colors and preservatives.

The cheese puffs are low in saturated fat and cholesterol, have 30% less fat than other leading brands, and are gluten and wheat free. They are available in Grilled Cheese, Pizza Pie, Mac n’ Cheese and Nacho Cheese.

The all-natural cookies are made with simple, wholesome and real ingredients, and each serving contains a good source of whole grains and fiber. They are available in the following varieties: Chocolate Chip Bites, Oatmeal Chocolate Bites and Chocolate Chocolate Bites.

I never tried a chocolate chip cookie made with whole grains before and I have to say it was quite delicious. It didn't taste that different from a regular cookie and I felt great knowing that I was eating something healthy and wholesome. So, if you're in the market to try a new, healthy snack I recommend a Snikiddy Snacks.

They are sold in Toys“R”Us stores, natural and conventional grocery stores including Whole Foods Market, and online through Snikiddy.com and Amazon.com.

SWING: A Concept Shop

I was out and about checking out some new stores and I had read about a new shop that sounded really cool called SWING: A Concept Shop, so I decided to check it out. I have to say it's a very refreshing, inviting, and beautifully decorated shop located in Harlem at 1960 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd (at 118th Street).

SWING is a lifestyle boutique featuring a full range of apparel, children’s wear, home decor, beauty products, art, music and lifestyle products. SWING is the vision of owner, Helena Greene, a New York native and fashion designer who has lived and traveled extensively around the world. Greene returned to New York in 2007 after living in Antwerp, Belgium and shortly after her return, she was able to make her dreams come true by opening a concept store that would allow her to share what she’d experienced in her travels.

SWING offers an eclectic mix of signature and one-of-a-kind specialty items from cashmere apparel, to glassware, leather handbags, beauty products and greeting cards. Upon entry, guests are encouraged to absorb the full SWING experience, to sit and converse at the store’s communal table, enjoy a cup of Kusmi Tea or N’espresso coffee (sold in house), discover a point of interest and explore its diverse products.

SWING houses an ever-evolving inventory and currently features an array of distinctive brands including: Cristina Bomba (Italian knitwear), The L’anverre Collective (Belgian glassware and ceramics), Nafi de Luca (Italian hats), Rick Owens (L.A./Paris-based tanks/apparel), Album di Famiglia (Italian children’s wear), Finger in the Nose (children’s wear), Ann Demeulemeester (Belgian knitwear), Lie Down I think I Love You (English handbags), furnishings from China and stationery from local designers. The store also features all natural beauty and skincare products from New York’s Sphatika and houses art by various local artists.

SWING is a wonderful and exciting shop to visit so plan a day with your girlfriends and take a trip to Harlem. It's a short subway ride from Times Square, about 27 minutes on express train 2 and/or 3. The website is currently under construction but keep checking it at http://www.swing-nyc.com/.

Beauty remedy for your clothing!

Madame Paulette is the world's leading custom couture cleaner and they are now offering their very own DIY at home Madame Paulette Stain Kits.

Unlike conventional stain removers, Madame Paulette has taken into account the two most important factors for safe and effective stain removal.

Time: The most important! The sooner the stain can be treated properly, the safer and easier it is to remove.

Stain Identification: Every stain has a different composition. Before anything is applied, it is important to properly identify the stain.

There are three primary stain groups and each one requires a special formula:

* Special Formula 1 - Earth Based Stains: Fruit juices, teas, colas, liquors, etc.
* Special Formula 2 - Protein Based Stains: From the body and dairy products, such as blood, perspiration, milk, eggs, etc.
* Special Formula 3 - Oil Based Stains: From vegetable, mineral, or petroleum oils, such as baby oil, animal fat, salad dressing, mayonnaise, motor oil, grease, etc.

Each formula is conveniently packaged, easy to use and guarantees excellent results.

Here is what you’ll find in each foil-sealed packet:

A waffle-pattern absorbent cloth is saturated in the same special formulas that Madame Paulette uses daily in removing stains from the world’s most exclusive couture apparel. Each formula is biodegradable and rinses out with water.

A distilled water rinse, that follows the application of each special formula, flushes out any remaining stain particles. Distilled water, unlike tap water, permits the fabric to dry without a ring. Minerals and iron in tap water typically leave an unsightly yellow ring.

A fourth packet contains three individual super absorbent cloths. Using this cloth under the stained area will help transfer stain matter through the fabric into the absorbent cloth. This will make the stain removal process even more effective.

The stain kits sell for $12.50 MSRP each and are available at Madame Paulette NYC or visit www.MadamePaulette.com for more information or to make a purchase.

Martin + Osa wants you to be Red Hot this July 4th!!

Need something cute and red this July 4th that will not break your budget? Check out styles from all-American brand, Martin + Osa and celebrate your independence day in style.

The hippest option is the red tie-front sleeveless knit dress, which is the perfect summer beach dress that can go from day to night. It has a hint of stretch, deep V-neck, empire waist, and is made of modal and spandex.

Best of all, it's machine washable and under $100. At only $79.50 this dress is a steal!!

For more information on Martin + Osa or to buy this fabulous dress please visit http://www.martinandosa.com.

Carlos Falchi Partners with Target for Limited-Edition Handbag Collection

Target is partnering with acclaimed handbag designer Carlos Falchi to launch a limited-edition handbag collection, Carlos Falchi for Target.

This collection is the eighth handbag launch in a series of limited-time-only accessories designers at Target.

The Carlos Falchi for Target collection will be available at most Target stores and at Target.com November 1 through December 27, 2009.

About Target
Minneapolis-based Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) serves guests at 1,699 stores nationwide and at Target.com. Target is committed to providing a fun and convenient shopping experience with access to unique and highly differentiated products at affordable prices. Since 1946, the corporation has given 5 percent of its income through community grants and programs like Take Charge of Education. Today, that giving equals more than $3 million a week.

Berimbau Brazilian Restaurant

Last night we checked out a new Brazilian restaurant in the West Village called Berimbau. It opened four weeks ago by owner Mario Espindola and general manager & designer of venue, Sergio Larosa. It's a small yet intimate restaurant that seats 74 inside and has two tables outside.

Our meal at Berimbau was one of the best meals we've had in a long time. The food was delicious and the service was attentive but not obnoxious. It was a place where you can hang out for a bit after your meal and not feel rushed out the door. The food, a fusion of Brazilian and French cooking, includes mainstays like acarajé (a black-eyed-pea cake) and new creations, such as duck breast with a cachaça-lime sauce; scallops crusted with black pepper, and shell steak with yucca and a Malbec reduction.

For appetizers we ordered a mixed salad and a black bean soup with Brazilian sausage. We did not try it but the tuna salad looked amazing. For the entrees, we tried the special of the night, which was a flat iron steak with salad and rice with vegetables. The steak was cooked to perfection. The rice had a nice flavor and it was moist. The second entree we tried was the Salmão, coconut crusted salmon in a sundried tomato, asparagus and lemon sauce with a tomato bagne.

Last but not least, our favorite part of the meal, dessert!! We ordered the passion fruit mousse and coconut flan. The flan was good but nothing compared to the passion fruit mousse. The mousse was mouth-watering. We couldn't put our spoons down. It was so good we told the waiter they should put it in to go containers and sell them.

Berimbau is located at 43 Carmine Street (Btwn Bedford & Bleecker St), New York 10014. The phone number is (212) 242-2606.

Audubon Society’s Women in Conservation Luncheon

Yesterday was the Audubon Society’s Women in Conservation Luncheon at The Plaza Hotel, honoring distinguished women with the Rachel Carson Award for their dedication to advancing conservation and environmental education locally and on a global scale. The Audubon Society established this award in 2004 and it was named for Rachel Carson, whose landmark book Silent Spring opened the world’s eyes to the damage caused by the use of pesticides.


This year’s Rachel Carson Award honorees include (from left to right) Elizabeth Putnam (President/Founder of Student Conservation Association), Sally Jewell (CEO, Recreational Equipment), Dr. Sylvia Earle (National Geographic), Jane Evans, Susan Haspel and Elizabeth Colleton (all NBC Universal’s “Green is Universal” initiative). Anne Thompson, NBC News’
Chief Environmental Affairs correspondent, served as the emcee for the luncheon.


Thanks to this wonderful luncheon we learned some very interesting things about energy efficiency such as:

• Removing unnecessary items from your car can improve fuel economy. An extra 100 pounds in your trunk can reduce your MPG by 3%.
• Unplugging TV's, stereos, microwaves and computers saves money and energy.
• Washing your clothes in cold water instead of hot can save 220 kwh of power and avoid 500 lbs of carbon emissions based on doing just two loads a week.
• Turning out the light each time you leave a room can save 5-10% of your light energy use.
  

About the Audubon Society:
Now in its second century, the National Audubon Society is dedicated to protecting the birds and other wildlife and the habitat that supports them. Audubon’s national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engage millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in conservation. For more information please visit their website at http://www.audubon.org.

Win tickets to the Makeup Show New York

The fourth annual Makeup Show New York is heading your way and two lucky readers have a chance of winning tickets to this must-attend event. The show takes place on May 17th and 18th at the Metropolitan Pavilion located at 125 west 18th between 6th and 7th avenue from 9:00am-6:00pm.

The Makeup Show New York is one of the hottest shows around. It brings the industry together like no other trade event has before. Some of the biggest brands such as MAC Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Smashbox and Stila will be demonstrating their products. Highlights of the event include: speakers from every area of makeup artistry, new product introductions, special Pro-only offers, seminars, forums and hands-on workshops.

To enter the contest please email us at 2hungrygirls@gmail.com and subscribe to our email alerts. We will pick two winners at random. The tickets are good for either day.

For those who do not win but would like to attend anyway please visit www.themakeupshow.com to purchase tickets but hurry because the advance ticket deadline is Thursday, May 14th.

Hunger Strike of the Week - MTA: Going Nowhere

I want to shout it from a rooftop - "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore!" This isn't the first rant/complaint/whine from a New York City straphanger about the less than perfect service of the MTA subways. And it won't be the last. I just have to get my frustration off my chest because with about three weeks of signal and switch problems, massive train traffic and 'earlier incidents,' I've been late to work more than a handful of times. New York City's first subway system opened in 1904. After more than 100 years, you would think the MTA would know how to handle these problems.

Of course, the money situation doesn't make it any better. I'm a bit relieved that my metro card will not increase to $103. But $89 is still no picnic. Why is the MTA making it so that people may not be able to afford to go to work everyday? And there is nothing we can do it about it...but grin and bear it. It shouldn't be my responsibility to throw off my whole morning routine by waking up earlier and walking out the door earlier to get to work on time. In fact, I should be able to take for granted that my subway system will get the job done.
End of the line.

ANNA SUI FOR TARGET!

I am so excited to hear that Target is partnering with fashion designer Anna Sui as the second designer in a series of Designer Collaborations, a unique program that features well-established designers who draw inspiration from a collaborative partner, muse or creative element.


The exclusive Anna Sui for Target collection draws inspiration from the four main female characters of the CW television phenomenon, “Gossip Girl,” and will launch on Target.com and at 500 Target stores nationwide September 13, 2009. The affordable fashion collection will be available through October 17, 2009.


Designer Collaborations, which is separate from the company’s GO International initiative, is another way in which Target brings an emporium of designers to its guests. These exclusive collections bring top design at unbeatable prices to women everywhere, for a limited time only.


I have always been a huge fan of Anna Sui. Her clothes are feminine, girly yet trendy with a touch of rock-and-roll coolness. I cannot wait to score some of these pocket-friendly pieces.


Images are not available until August so be sure to visit us again!!!

We attended the Handing Our Children a Brighter Future gala for A Caring Hand: The Billy Esposito Foundation last night at the Altman Building. Hosted by Susan Espositio, founder and daughter of Billy Esposito, the elegant and sophisticated gala had a carnival theme with elements of juvenile charm, like a cotton candy machine, make your own cupcakes and centerpieces of colorful licorice and oversized lollipops.


Who cares for A Caring Hand? VIPS like Teresa Giudice, Dina Manzo & Cardine Manzo of the Real Housewives of New Jersey, Miss USA 2009 Kristen Dalton, LuAnn de Lesseps, Countess of the Real Housewives of NYC, and Ethan Zohn, Winner of Survivor, Africa, who was honored, showed their support for the organization, which raised 250,000 for its mission to meet bereaved children and families wherever they are in their grief and fulfill their needs in a caring and knowledgeable environment.


Photos by Christopher Wells Kpictures.com

A Worthwhile Cause-A Caring Hand

Recently, I was introduced to a wonderful organization called, A Caring Hand, the Billy Esposito Foundation. The organization was launched as a direct result of the death of Billy Esposito on September 11, 2001. His daughter Susan Esposito founded the organization as a tribute to her father to honor his passion for education and fondness for children. The mission of ACH is to meet bereaved children and families wherever they are in their grief and fulfill their needs in a caring and knowledgeable environment through services to help them with their emotional journey and financial assistance to aid their future education.

A Caring Hand, The Billy Esposito Foundation (ACH) will hold its seventh annual fundraising gala, Handing Our Children A Brighter Future, on Thursday, April 30, 2009 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Altman Building in Manhattan.

I had the chance to speak to a representative from A Caring Hand prior to its event.

1. Last year’s event honored Ethan Zohn, winner of Survivor Africa. Who is being honored this year? Why? How do you choose your honorees?
This year we are honoring two individuals that are extremely committed to their communities, namely Henry Buhl and Mary M. McCambridge. Henry is the founder of Association of Community Employment Programs for the Homeless in 1992 and his organization has helped thousands of homeless people throughout New York City find employment. Mary M. McCambridge, AskMaryMac, is a grief and bereavement specialist, award-winning author, speaker, coach, consultant, radio talk show host, and the Founder and President of the Foundation for Grieving Children, Inc. She is the author of five works in her field, including the highly acclaimed Understanding Your Grieving Heart After a Loved One’s Death, dedicated to the surviving family members and first responders of the September 11th attacks, and the award-winning National Directory of Bereavement Support Groups and Services. Her AskMaryMac.com website and blog helps people from around the world better understand their grieving process following a loved one’s death.


2. How does A Caring Hand help kids with their grief? What types of programs do you offer the kids?
Following a death there is often sadness, confusion, isolation, guilt, or even shame. For some young people, grief left unaddressed can lead to hopelessness, acting out, and poor school performance. No child or family should feel they are alone in their grief when facing the challenge of life without a cherished loved .

A Caring Hand’s process to approach to this problem is as follows:

• A Caring Hand, The Billy Esposito Bereavement Center helps children, teens, caregivers, teachers and professionals learn healthy ways of dealing with grief.
• Services focus on expression, coping, remembering and community building – the essential components of grief work – using child-friendly activities including art, games and writing.
• We also help caregivers understand their own feelings, the grief journey of their child and how to feel confident parenting in the aftermath of a death.
• We help children manage the pain of their past and find joy to take them into the future.
• ACH also awards educational scholarships to bereaved children who may have otherwise lost the opportunity to pay tuition with the passing of a parent.

We are here to help family members learn emotionally healthy ways to live after the pain of someone’s death. The main program components of the Bereavement Center include:

• Group support: Our 10 week peer group support program for children and teens and their caregivers runs in the Fall, Winter, and Spring. The program is based on common bereavement tasks and is co-facilitated by trained volunteers and mental health professionals.
• Individual evaluation and help: We evaluate bereaved individuals to assess how best to meet their needs. services and referrals are tailored to meet the specific needs of family members.
• Outreach: We do outreach to individuals, schools, and organizations to provide information about services and recruit clients and group leaders.
• Consultation: We are available for consultation to educate professionals, schools, businesses, and service providers about grief and bereavement.
• Training: Volunteer training and supervision for group facilitators is provided.
• Supervision: Professional supervision and training of mental health trainees can be arranged.

Group Program
Children, teens, and their caregivers are invited to attend one of our group sessions. Bereaved children often struggle with the pain of their grief and the pain of feeling different and alone. A centerpiece of the services is our 10 week peer group program for children, teens, and caregivers. At the Bereavement Center members of the family meet with others who are bereaved; with those who share a similar experience, who can validate their feelings, and ease their sense of isolation. The process of mutual aid, which occurs regularly in group settings, is educational and supportive and necessary to the recovery process.

• 6:15 – 6:45 PM: Family members join together for a light dinner and conversation . After dinner, participants break into individual groups.
• 6:45 - 8 PM Children and teens divide into groups according to age and caregivers meet in their own group. All groups are led by trained facilitators.
• All participants are expected to make a full 8 -week commitment in order to develop trust in each other and gain a sense of security. Family members are welcome to attend more than once or join a monthly drop in group.

3. What ages do you work with?
3-18


4. What is the most important message you want to get across to our readers regarding A Caring Hand?
ACH proudly opened and operates the only comprehensive, free-standing bereavement center in New York City . Children with unresolved childhood grief following the death of a loved one are five times more likely to commit suicide, nine times more likely to drop out of high school and twenty times more likely to have behavioral disorders. For some young people, grief cast aside and ignored can lead to life long problems with school, work and relationships. 50% of the youth under age 21 were found to experience the sudden unexpected death of a close relative or friend which represents hundreds of thousands of youth in New York City . This youth is the future of our city and programs like this allow them to be able to receive the counseling they need to properly grieve the loss of a loved one. Here are some additional statistics:

• After someone dies, children as well as adults can feel sad, confused, isolated, guilty or even ashamed.
• Children with unresolved childhood grief following the death of a loved one are five times more likely to commit suicide, nine times more likely to drop out of high school and 20 times more likely to have behavioral disorders.
• Following the violent death of a parent or loved one, children are three times more likely to have anxiety disorders, including posttraumatic stress disorder.
• Even two years after the death of a parent, 20% of school-aged bereaved children can have psychological difficulties needing supportive interventions.
• For some young people, grief cast aside and ignored can lead to life long problems with school, work and relationships.

For further information on A Caring Hand or to purchase tickets to the 2009 Gala, please visit their website at http://www.acaringhand.org.

Hunger strike of the week: Ingrid Millet

Spa Week is a wonderful event and it just ended here in New York City!! The best part about Spa Week is the Spa Week Media Party, which they host a week before the event. I always have a fantastic time and the vendors that showcase are great! Probably the best part about the event is the huge swag bag they give at the end filled with products!!


This past Spa Week Party held in April had one of the worst vendors I've ever met in my life, Ingrid Millet, a luxury skincare line from France. Every vendor at the event took time to talk with me about their product, gave me press kit, samples if they had any, etc.., but not Ingrid Millet. They couldn't be bothered taking five minutes to talk to Shari and I about their brand. They ignored us and would not give us their little giftbag. Why? Most likely because we're bloggers and they felt we were not important enough.


Well, my response is that they better get a handle on the new media outlets!! Print newspapers and magazines are going under faster than the Titanic. Websites and blogs are the media of the future. Companies have to start realizing that people are spending more time on the web reading their news and getting information.!!!!

A Slice for Sore Eyes - eyeSlices®

Stuff happens, and then you cry. I cried tonight. Luckily for me, I had eyeSlices®, innovative eye treatment pads that combine the natural essence of nature with bio-innovation to bring about an all-in-one solution to all common eye concerns. These little slices of heaven are a global first in cryogel polymer technology, dermal delivery eye masks (high-tech cucumber slices, if you will) that reduce the appearance of red eyes, dark circles under eyes, tired eyes, wrinkles and puffy eyes within 5 minutes of use. These professional spa and in-home anti-aging eye skin treatments lock in moisture and are unique in that they provide an instant cooling sensation without a fridge.

I wore my eyeSlices for 10 minutes and none would be the wiser that I had myself a nice little cry fest!

eyeSlices are also re-usable for about 4 more treatments! So hopefully, while having a good cry is not always a bad thing, I will use them again for a refresher after a few long nights of partying, not sobbing. They come in a sleek little carrying case that's also perfect for traveling. And when I'm done using my eyeSlices, I can just buy refills for the case.

There is a downside though - there is no lying down. eyeSlices are meant to be worn sitting in the upright position, not the most ideal position for relaxing and rejuvenating. Even then they slid down a bit. eyeSlices, however, still proved to be easy on the eye.

http://www.eyeslices.com/