Just Because.....
.... the hotness Paul Newman brought never goes out of style.
(January 26, 1925 - September 26, 2008)
Posted by Liz at 10:23 AM
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DISCLAIMER: While the following hair products are amazing they are not cheap.
I know times are tough, but as long as I am gainfully employed I've made a commitment to use the best hair care products I can find. Why? Because my hair was an unmanageable disaster and I have found a cure.
The back story is I have been struggling for a while now with long frizzy, curly hair. I've tried flat irons and loads of various cremes and nothing worked. My ends looked like straw. I tried getting my hair trimmed often but that didn't change the frizz. Eventually, I started wearing my hair up and unhappily accepted my circumstances.
A few weeks ago I discussed my frustrations with a friend whose hair is curlier than mine. She insisted I try a non-sulfate shampoo and a specialized conditioner. She also suggested that I invest in a professional blow dyer, hair brush and Davines styling product. Her up scale hair stylist had educated her a long time ago and she was more than happy to pass along the information. I took every suggestion and my hair was transformed immediately! I have soft, lush straight hair and it's not weighed down with product.
Apparently, non-sulfate shampoos don't have the detergents that ordinary, less expensive shampoos have. I'm not going to kid you. These products do require an initial financial commitment but they are worth it. Friends and acquaintances a like have noticed my new shiny mane but more importantly I'm loving the new texture.
.... the hotness Paul Newman brought never goes out of style.
(January 26, 1925 - September 26, 2008)
Thankfully the good people at Trader Joe's have somehow packaged the best of the beach in a 22 oz tub called Purify Tangerine Sugar Scrub - and they sell it for under $6! (I know!) When I use the scrub in the shower a lovely tangerine oil remains on my skin becoming summer soft, even my elbows! Make sure you rinse your shower because this product can make the tub slick. I normally don't like scrubs because of the smell and expense but this one is perfect even on your feet between pedicures.
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I love Jeeves and Wooster staring the one and only Stephen Fry and Houses- Hugh Laurie. It's just a lightweight enjoyable British TV show about a foolish but good natured rich guy named Wooster and his humble but brillant valet, Jeeves. If you want something lightweight and you're a real anglophile like me, give this show a try. I rent it from Netflix of course.
Brightening Cleansing Oil for the face by shu uemura. Click here to read more about it.
I am the girl who would totally wear this. ----->Click here.
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Ever wonder what those red Kabbalah strings many of the celebs wear around their wrists are all about? -----> Click here.
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Since the 1930's Acqua di Parma has been a symbol of Italian refinement, class, and timeless elegance. For the latest most wonderful addiction to the collection. ----->Click here.
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One of my favorite poems is one that reminds me of my aging parents and it makes me cry....
Nothing Gold Can Stay
Nature's first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf's a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf,
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day
Nothing gold can stay.
By: Robert Frost, 1923
My brows are finally growing back in after some over plucking. I was really over zealous because I got this new magnifying mirror with a light that didn't allow me to see the brows from enough distance. After this little dilemma I have concluded I prefer them naturally shaped.
I'm pretty much electing to be stranded and gas prices are a great excuse. What can I say, I love being home with the kids even though they just left for a weeks vacation. Oh I get out but just locally. Longer trips have been cut way back for now. I have no much I need to do right here anyway.
McSame is so going to lose. I believe that heart and soul. Every election since I've voted I've believed the Dems will win and well....I've been crushed several times as you can imagine. This time I'm hoping against hope that working class people are finally figuring out that a conservative Republican in office is completely against their best interests. Did I mention I'm hoping? Most people I know have crappy health insurance or none at all. Imagine your life if you didn't have to worry about keeping your crappy job so you could hold on to the health insurance? Just imagine the options: a boss you like because you can quit the boss you hate. Wow. Possibilities arise. Staying home with your kids because you don't have to carry health insurance. It could possibly happen in the future but definitely not with conservative Republicans in office.
My niece Lea (age 6) had her dance recital today on the campus of Swarthmore College. She performed to, "I Feel Pretty." How adorable!
Little sister Becca (age 3) was there to support Lea
As some of you may have noticed, I have naturally bushy brows. Well ABC News is reporting the bushy brow is back! I'm throwing my tweezers away right now.
Musician John Mayer is so impressed with himself because he has decided to rock the traditional 80's feathered hair do. Nice try John but personally, I think I did it better the first time around because I had the Brooke Shields eyebrows going. Yay Brooke!
Me in 11th grade, circa 1981. I remember trying not to smile too hard because I wanted fuller lips like Laura in General Hospital. That was around the time she married her rapist Luke.
Chanel Nail Colour in Miami Peach. I love it, it's so fresh and takes me right back to South Beach. (via StilettoJungle)
I made this collection and I call it, Summer of Chanel:
Vivian Westwood is 67 years old today and I want to look just like this when I'm her age. Now with me being American and all, I will undoubtly look a little more well preserved but damn this woman oozes style. I want my nieces to drag around with me while I play my role as the fabulous Auntie. What fun!
Being back in my Havaianas and a long comfy dress for summer like Gwen (pictured below).
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I picked up a MAC blush today from the Fafi colllection. Fafi is a Parisian graffiti artist- so hot! My color is Hipness; bright and warm perfect for Spring.
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Just out on DVD: Into the Wild. I watched it last night and it is AMAZING. Whatever you do add this one to your Netflix's queue. I loved it. This film is so touching and heartbreaking. No Country for Old Men is being released soon and I want to see what beat Into the Wild for Best Picture because Sean Penn's film is a knock-out.
The real Christopher Johnson McCandless (12 February 1968 – 18 August 1992)
We may actually have a woman in White House and that is exciting. Always on a mission to embrace change myself, I decided to go with another really big first in my life and yes it is growing on me. Go to my latest Twiitter post located in the right hand corner of this page and check out the new do.
Recently, there was an episode of Project Runway where the designers had to rework old, really bad fashion trends. Among overalls and shoulder pads, one of those trends was neon. Maybe Posh Spice took this episode to heart? Here she is rocking the neon...
I'm actually being paid to go out on New Years Eve. Don't hate, I'm telling the truth. I have to let that thought sink in myself. I'm being paid tonight to do what I truly love and do best- someone else's make-up. As I start the new year with a fresh new job search (More on that later) I need to remember that anything is possible...ANYTHING.
For various reasons I've decided on an up do for New Years Eve. Tonight I gave it a test run. I bought the hair band at CVS for $5.99. It's black crochet and comfortable. I'll have to flat iron underneath my hair so it looks smoother.
****Another really cute option here and here.
Check out Mathieu Franics: A Boy Wearing Make Up. This guy does these great tutorials on make-up application using MAC which we all know is the best and most readily afforable make-up line. I like his tutorial on eyeliner. Now go glam it up on New Years!
Last night Sara's birthday party was at Fluid nightclub off South Street. We had a ball as it so happened to be the Sex Dwarf event packed with all the usual suspects/friends. Jimmi and I laughed all night about feeling like two old cougars on the prowl.
This old cougar enjoys a holiday cocktail.
The events theme was entitled "Snowball" and Jimmi was the (ahem) Queen.
Me with the bouncer, Reese (Age: 25). He is also a professional boxer in Philly. Don't you love how he put the fist up? Jimmi says it looks like a pose with my future abusive husband I however was loving his muscles.
Me with a really fun person (Age: younger than me) whose name escapes me. A poor memory is another cougar characteristic.
The diet of a cougar consists of french fries, a Philly staple to be consumed in the wee hours of the morning when their is no hope of burning off the calories.
Jimmi couldn't believe this slice was NYC style. It doesn't take much to thrill an old cougar.
These sunglasses and this beret.
Graffiti Drawing By: Liz
"Deer and Stags represent swiftness, gentleness, grace and balance. They teach us the ability to listen and to sacrifice for the greater good."
Lately, I just love anything with a deer or a crow embellishment. Some people love owls, I use to love pigs. I have no idea why it's deer and crows right now except that you see more of them around.
With as much as I drive, deer cross my path everyday. While they startle me like crazy they are so pretty. Etsy is a great place to find beautiful deer and crow items- so crafty!
"Ravens and Crows represent magic, mystery, and sacred law as well as battle, and the mysteries of the Crone and Matron (warrior goddess). A gathering of ravens is called an "unkindness"while a group of crows is a "murder". They are highly intelligent birds, and have been known to follow armies for many miles."
Cute suggestions:
I needed a new party/event dress. I got this one tonight and I love it. It's way cuter than the picture. I would describe it as very Mia Farrow in Rosemary's Baby and you know I'm obsessed with that movie. It has a polo shirt collar and a ruffle. Two things I never wear but I liked them together for some reason. Naturally, I plan on wearing it with black tights and ballet slippers, my signature look this season.
80's dream boat, Andrew McCarthy is 44. He is still gorgeous in my opinion and can be seen in the upcoming film, "The Spiderwick Chronicles."
Jimmi and I finally made it out to the center city Sephora. Our visit was really rather anti-climatic. The service there isn't the best. My best tip after visiting Sephora's from Las Vegas to Miami is always approach a pleasant looking salesperson. Step back and watch for who appears to be helpful with other patrons. Sephora has some nasty sales help.
MAC was a whole different vibe. We had a lovely sales girl who helped Jimmi and I find the most fabulous eyeshadows, lipgloss and pencils.
I finally found a great pair of knock-off Uggs. I hated Uggs for a long time, but I've finally given over to comfort and warmth. I've been wanting them for work. I scored a great pink pair at Daffy's and sprayed them down with weather repelant in case I come across the inevitable puddle.
We had lunch and later tea at Cosi. Pax keeps promising to join us sometime which would be so nice. I modeled my new eye brow shape (see below). I finally went a much thinner shape, I've been wanting a change. What a joy to take advantage of a mild Fall day in the city.
The Sun Sets on a Day of Beauty.
I love old Marlene Dietrich photos and movies. She was so ahead of her time. Of course the glamour shots are great, but I love her in older pics as well. The picture above is my all time favorite because it is so timeless. It could have been taken yesterday. The look is totally current and I respect women so much who can pull that off.
In 1941, the U.S. entered the World War II and Dietrich became one of the first celebrities to raise war bonds. She entertained troops on the front lines in a USO revue that included future TV pioneer Danny Thomas as her opening act. Dietrich was known to have strong political convictions and the mind to speak them. Like many Weimar era German entertainers, she was a staunch anti-Nazi who despised anti-Semitism.
If you can, treat yourself too seeing "Marlene", the 1984 documentary film by Maximilian Schell about the legendary film star Marlene Dietrich.
Britney treats the pap to another one of her elegant, pulled together get-ups. Here she is seen getting ice cream. Usually pictured with a frappuccino from Starbucks, it's not hard to figure out where her sugar chin comes from.
On a side note, I loved Malibu this past summer. I'm sorry to see it burning away.
Do you believe Britney's latest weave? She wore that dead animal on her head and that get up into a public rest room at Quiznos yesterday. Girlfriend must get her hair done in Iran where they don't have any gays cause this "do" is a hot mess!
Driving in the car the other night, the conversation between Ms. Jimmi and I went a little like this......
Jimmi- "There are a lot of people moving into Philly from NYC. You can always tell a Philly native. The New York people are all slim and chic. The Philly people walk with their heads down and have slumped shoulders. They look so....defeated. "
Me- "I know what you mean! When I was in LA. No one wore stretch pants. They could all zip up their pants. People in Philly look like their diets consist of cheesesteaks and soft pretzels."
Jimmi- "You could drop Sylvester Stallone and his mother Jackie back in South Philly tomorrow and they would blend right in."
Philly natives. According too Jimmi the look never leaves you.
What is your morning beauty ritual?
I look in the mirror and apply tons of moisturizer then I drink my Guayaki (Gwy-uh-KEE) tea.
What is the best beauty advice you have been given?
Sleep
What are your favorite beauty products?
Nailtiques for my nails and an Esse polish. Mason Pearson hairbrushes and Tweezerman tweezers for my brows.
Do you have a signature scent?
Always CoCo by Chanel but now I adore Chance by Chanel as well.
What's the perfume like: Floral oriental, warm, spicy, heady and lingering
Launched in 1984
When to wear: All occasions, evening wear espacially when you want to smell powerful!
Lot's going on here with me but there are only a few things I feel up to posting about today. First off, I'm loving these stretch hair bands I found at Free People. My roots are showing and I'm putting off getting them done so they will be fresh before I leave for Los Angeles. Enter a cute, comfy hair band. I have the yellow, I ordered the red and turquoise to take with me when I go away.
I've made a new discovery on the path to eating healthy. It's that old staple called low fat cottage cheese (1 or 2%). Recently I had it at a diner for breakfast. Normally I don't do cheese but I tried this and it was so tasty. I guess because I've been off pizza cheese for a year now. This is positively yummy and easy to eat. It makes a delicious snack or meal any time of day, and can be used as an ingredient in many recipes.
Lastly, I want to say that I enjoyed the last episode of The Sopranos. I like the way the writer conveyed the whole looking over your shoulder for the rest of your life premise. I thought that was really amazing. I for one was a nervous wreck! The ending was a feeling not so much a blood bath. I heard years ago that series creator David Chase, would never kill off his lead character Tony Soprano so this ending made perfect sense.
Me in a hair band. The shades are also from FREE PEOPLE.
I love this tee. It looks amazing and comfy all at the same time.
Yesterday, I left a few comments for friends on myspace. This morning I got this message from one of those friends asking how I manage to stay so young looking. Her and I are both the same age. The following is her message and my reply...
Hi Liz,
Hey.. how are you?
Thanks for the comment on my page. I'm glad you are a "big deal" around here...lol (This is referring to the comment I left.)
The pic that you have up is good... you look younger. So, what's your secret?
Have a great Memorial Day!
Signed,
XXXXX
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Dear XXXX,
First off, thanks for the compliment! Looking younger is no secret. I will tell you exactly what *I* know to be true for me.
*I never married and I have no children. Big stress reducer right there, wouldn't you agree? HEHE.
*I never abused alcohol or drugs- ever and I don't smoke.
*I am very young at heart and I keep up with current events in news as well as pop culture.
*I have always dated younger men and had younger friends. Surround yourself with youth as opposed to people who hark back to the past all the time.
*I live an examined life which again, keeps me thoughtful and in today.
* I take excellent care of my skin. That means I moisturize daily, STAY OUT OF THE SUN and if a face cream works I buy it!
*I drink tons of H2O not soda or juices. I don't eat white bread, pasta, yogurt or cheeses. That stuff puffs up your face.
* My hair color is professionally done. No flat one color from the grocery store for me. My clothes and make-up are current and age appropriate.
* Finally, I would say genetics has a lot to do with it. My Mom and her mother both had youthful faces.
The photo in question taken last week.
I love the flower in the hair and anyone can do this.
Flowers on clothes. Too cute!
Remember, flowers can be smaller if your feeling demure.
Couture Hair
Click here. The site is cheesy, but the flowers are too cute!
Call them what you will, rubber sole sandals, flip flips or thongs. I enjoy them immensely in the summer. Checking out the latest issue of Elle magazine today, I came across an ad for Havaianasus (pronounced ah-vai-YAH-nas). The story on them according to their website is as follows...
"Havaianas are truly, the best rubber sandals in the world. They are designed, marketed and manufactured by Sao Paulo Alpargatas S.A. The ultra-high quality of Havaianas is due to a top-secret rubber recipe created exclusively by Alpargatas. This highly guarded recipe makes the sandals soft as marshmallows, light, and highly durable."
They sell retail in a few shops nearby so I think I'll take this evening and go check them out. I also emailed the company to ask whether the pretty print inside wears off the way it does in regular flip flops. I loathe a beat up flip flop but they claim these wear like iron. I'll let you know if I end up trying them.
Update:
I found these today and I'm hooked:
Updated 05/19/07:
I bought these today.
Click here for a cool fashion website. I love the Charlotte Ronson stuff. Cute!
This blog has some amazing inspirational fashions as well as accessories for the home.
The weather today is awful. This whole month is a wash out so to cheer myself up I was surfing for some summer must-haves before I leave for L.A. This is what I've come up with....
* I love a MaryJane style shoe. I've seen girls with large size feet throw on a big heavy shoe and that never made sense to me. Try something ultra-fem and light weight like these for example.
* I just saw these sneakers in Elle magazine and I thouhgt they were really cute. Hemp sneakers, who knew?
* I beat the same drum every summer, I know. STAY OUT OF THE SUN and tanning booths? Gross. There are so many excellent products to get a tanned look for your pale white skin. I plan on using this one before I hit Malibu this summer.
* I'm totally loving a footless tight this Spring, but please ladies don't slip on this look. Wear it with a very adorable dress not a big shirt. Yes the dresses come in all sizes so shop around. I'm thinking this will make a cute/comfy look for my six hour flight!
* For the Bargain Hunter:
Payless this selling an adorable Mary Jane ballet shoe with a side button. I have seen the exact same shoe at Macy's for three-times the price. I purchased the Payless shoe in black. Believe me, the quality on the more expensive shoe was only slightly better. Over all the look is the same.
Well folks, there is good news and bad news. First the bad news- I never realized how bad I needed Botox. The good news is- this StriVectin is really better than Botox!
I posted a while ago about purchasing the creme known to reduce stretch marks and used it on my face as directed. I saw a difference but to what extent, I wouldn't realize until the Easter photos were uploaded. I'm use to seeing my picture and zeroing in on the usual shadows but the shadows weren't there! Also, I have noticed my upper lip is fuller from applying the creme to that area. Wow, am I loving this stuff or what?
I went from this...
To This..........
An Untouched Photo of Me Taken Easter Sunday.
This Weeks Whim:
I want too fade freckles on my face and hands. I want to tighten smile lines around my mouth and reduce fine lines around my eyes. I'm not ready for Botox.
A Solution:
For quite some time I've been hearing about StriVectin-SD. It was originally an excellent stretch mark creme and then it was discovered to work miracles on the face and hands. It's readily available at Macy's so I bought some the other day. I'm reporting in on day three to say, I really see a big difference. I even have my 73 year old mother using it and she received a compliment on her skin at the dentist's office yesterday! It has really smoothed out my fine lines and my complexion is glowing. I also purchased the hand creme and the backs of my hands look great and feel amazing. I highly recommend it if you feel you want something topical or you aren't ready for Botox or lasers.
Lea (age 5) and Rebecca (age 2) were outside today. It was gorgeous. I had to snap a picture because they are getting so big so fast. Becca is talking now! Aren't I lucky to spend so much time with them? Jessica was at school. She is obsessed with Japan and anything Japanese this week. So cute.
I love the Olsen twins. They look like something straight out of a Stephen King novel. Little blood sucking vampires who shy away from the light of day behind their great big sunglasses. I like their original take on fashion- Park Avenue old lady chic mixed with tons of black, fur and tights worn as leg wear Ala Edie Sedgwick. They are two little compact freak shows gliding around the streets of New York and Paris. How Anne Rice!!
Art: Gallery of the Absurd Medium: charcoal, pastel, ink on paper.
Well, here is the followup thus far to a previous post I made regarding Jennifer Hudson's rise to fame. Not surprisingly Jennifer Hudson was slammed for her choice of a gold bolero jacket to the Oscars. Apparently Andre Leon Talley, second only too Anna Wintour herself at Vogue was in charge of getting Jennifer to the ball so she wouldn't look like a pumpkin. After the backlash Hudson told Matt Lauer that the only regret she had about the Oscars was her dress. The morning of the ceremony, Jennifer wanted to go with a custom Roberto Cavalli dress instead. That’s when Andre lost it.
A source said, “Jennifer was kind of sponsored by Talley and Vogue. Andre insisted she wear that hideous Oscar de la Renta dress with the awful, awful gold python bolero. Jennifer really didn’t want to, and so [noted stylist] Jessica Paster got her a beautiful gold Roberto Cavalli custom-made. But when Andre found out, he went ballistic. Moments before she left for the show, there was a power struggle and Jennifer ended up putting his outfit on.”
Nice job here throwing Andre Leon Talley under the bus. I'm not sure that's such a great idea. The man dictates fashion and has a monthly feature in Vogue describing how he goes about getting that herculean task done. Are we supposed to believe she wore something she didn't like just because one man threw a hissy fit? Sounds like some serious spin to me.
"You eat meat and you kill things that are better than you are, and then you say how bad, and even killers, your children are. You made your children what they are....” ~ Charles Manson
Have you heard? The Manson Girls look is back.
"We're not in Wonderland anymore Alice.” ~Charles Manson
Lenny Kravitz and his daughter Zoe got stuck sitting next to Lil' Kim at the Marc Jacobs show. Caption this________.
So your black, your poor and you live in America? There is one way to make that work for you in the land of milk and honey but only if you have some charisma and drive. Ludacris made it work in the rap game and he even proved himself with some acting roles. Sure they were the sterotypical street thug, but it's a start. Now Luda goes all Will Smith and thinks some new choppers will sky rocket his career? I think these giant plastic, fake, white things take away from the initial character he started out with, a relate-able face.
"Oh shut-up Liz, the guy will probably make millions off his next picture."
I don't care. I still don't like the sell out quality of those teef.
I saw these jackets and thought they were really cute. I love the broken heart and gold teef. HOT!
Some LA Guys Photo by: CobraSnake
When I left the house today, it was 9 degrees outside. Lovely. Before I left the house I slapped on some Olay SPF 15 moisturizer. I don't like to see the light of day without it and don't forget the backs of your hands (Thanks Julie)! Later I mixed a little foundation in with the SPF creme and applied it for a touch up. Suddenly I was reminded of a great product, Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer. It even contains an SPF 15! I have actually used it in the past and it is wonderful, especially if you don't think you like foundation. This product is as great in the summer as it is in the winter.
I was watching my nieces this morning. I had the baby down for her mid morning power nap and Lea (5) and Jessica (7) were fighting over the computer. We decided it was Lea's turn, so I offered a sure fire distraction to Jessica...
Me: I got some new make-up, wanna see?
Jesse: Sure! Can I put it on you?
Me: OK, I got a new eyeshadow and this lip gloss. I'll do one eye and then you do my other eye.
Jesse: Lizzy, that eyeshadow makes you look like the corpse bride (We laugh). Then applying the lip gloss on me she says under her breath, this color would look so much better on me.
Vanessa Williams is a beautiful woman but I HATE that fake hair and the real fur. This look is hideous and ages her ten years! Click below to see the insanity that is Vanessa.
D-listed reports this on the Olsen twins and I'm loving it. The old lady look is hysterical!
"I know Mary-Kate Olsen has more money that Al Qaeda, but I didn’t know she had the kind of money to go down to the Titanic and fish out old wardrobe chests. I mean, I know this was worn by an Astor on the night the ship went down. Either that or she’s the ghost of an Astor. Anyways, she decided to channel her inner 100-year-old woman at last night’s InStyle party for the GGs. Ashley Olsen looks a little less freaky, but not by much. "
Two Park Avenue biddys. Not sexy just really rich. Love it!
"Don’t kvetch about another birthday coming…it might not." ~ Susan Silver
A Historic Home for the Holidays.
The Junior League of New York’s hand-crafted commemorative ornament, $45 plus $5 shipping, pays tribute to the organization’s headquarters newly renovated headquarters. The piece, designed by Mia Kaplan of Ornaments by Mia, is a replica of the historic Astor House at 130 E. 80th St. and marks the recent reopening of the home.
I want some round frames. I think they are cute and quirky. I don't need them to be red, just round. Stay tuned.
An English canopy bed I can sink into and pretend I'm in a castle.
I want a dog. I'm not particular on the breed, it just needs to be a small friendly dog.
A new kitchen would be wonderful.
I think Lindsey Lohan is a beautiful girl, gorgeous, stunning in fact. I think she has major talent to go with the drinking problem she is dealing with. I wish her all the love and luck in the world. Now, I have to say that I simply ADORE the recent pics of a bloated Linds. I only say bloated because by Hollyweird standards she is. She is still gorgeous and I'm savoring the rare occasion that the general public gets to see a real live A-lister at a normal weight. Take a gander now people, it won't last long.
Click to enlarge pics.
The Body Beautiful
Lindsey Lohan Gives Good Face.
***Check out this picture of a mini Kurt Cobain. These two look really cute together.
I know a lot of girls that say they hate foundation. Even so, you know you are in dire need especially in the Winter or special occasions. I have discovered a wonderful product completely by mistake.
Recently the salesperson at M*A*C sent me home with the wrong formula of foundation. It was the correct color (N20) but I usually use a moisture blend. Because I had the right color I decided to give Studio Fix a try. I can't believe how well it covers! I have freckles and some redness- gone. I bet this is what the drag queens use. If you hate foundation because you think its heavy this is as light as powder, I promise.
Me + Studio Fix
"Beauty's where you find it [go with the flow]" ~ Lyrics to VOGUE
I remember Cindy Crawford when she was billed at Baby Gia and when she walked the runway for Todd Oldham so naturally I was curious when she turned up today on The View. Boy was I shocked. Cindy has done something to her face...her face? I kept staring and trying to figure it out. Maybe it's botox, maybe it was a brow lift but she has done something that has taken away all her Cindy. Then I thought about what we are doing to ourselves as a society when someone like Cindy Crawford thinks she needs to fix her face. Cindy is younger than myself by several years. I see changes in my face, especially around the eyes but at least I still look like me. If I became disfigured that would be different, but 40 is still young. Some would say well that's the business Cindy is in and I would suggest that something is wrong with that business, not our faces.
The face I remember. I would have liked to seen it age.
An example of great personal style
“Long before sunrise, Castillo was awakened by a commotion coming from the next cabin, where Daisy was ensconced. When she emerged from her compartment shortly before their arrival, he thought to ask why she had awakened so early. Then he realized that Daisy was perfectly dressed and in full makeup:
‘Is there a gentleman waiting for you at the station, Daisy?’ Castillo asked.
‘Only my driver,’ she replied.
‘Then why are you so dressed up? Why not just a pair of sunglasses?’
‘I did it for myself,’ Daisy explained. ‘It’s a question of discipline, you see.’”
There are many attributes to style: discipline, wit, resourcefulness, originality, verve. Tapert says that ambition has a little something to do with it. She doesn’t mind the word. “If a woman wants to have an interesting life, know interesting people and see the world, that takes a certain amount of desire and resourcefulness. That is what these women had. That is ambition and it is also style.” ~Taken from the book The Power of Style
A friend was admiring my toenail polish and said she thought she was too old to pull it off. I promised her she wasn't (and I really meant it). I think I will buy her a bottle of this OPI rebel color called Lincoln Park After Dark, from their Chicago collection. It's a deep purple meets black and it's actually pretty.
"Deep, dark, sophisticated colors are the choice of the season, including rich browns, cinnamons, cognacs and brown-reds, black, shades of wine and deep greens." ~ OPI Fall/Winter 2006 Forecast
Today it dawned on me that I'm in my favorite month and it's going to go by all to quickly because it always does. October is the most beautiful month. I love the weather, the smell of Fall in the air. The colors make everything look different. The hayrides my nieces take are a tradition. There is an awesome haunted hayride right near my house and I would love to go this year. Anyone brave enough to join me? It's a scary one- so be warned.
I'm still eating super healthy and loving it. Thank goodness for the willingness. Everyday, I see a group of dancers walking to their studio wearing these toasty looking carcoat sweaters. I have to get one for myself. Yippe October, so much to look forward too.
Carolyn Whipple | October 2, 2006
Tonight the woman who did my facial said my skin was good and I didn't even need to wear foundation. As I was leaving she stopped me asked me what I did for a living. I told her the long and short of it and she said,
"You have a really good aura about you. I felt it when I was messaging you. I don't always get good feelings from people but I got it from you and I can tell you have a good heart."
I thanked her and felt glad she had had a good experience. My pores are clean and like she said, I have my shine back. My shine was never lost it was just buried very deep within my pores. Layers and Layers of anger and junk clogging me up. I had to let it go, walk away, cleanse myself of the grime.
The esthetician said I don't need frequent facials and that may be true regarding my skin, but I know I can't allow things to clog up my spirit. Just like a facial, life requires a few basic steps: cleansing, analysis, exfoliation, massage, and extraction. Now, I not only see the shine, I feel it.
Two staples of my wardrobe have always been black slacks and black tights. Both are revamped and back. Yippe for me! In the eighties, I mostly wore black tights, black turtlenecks and pumps as I channeled Edie Sedgwick. My heart skipped a beat when I saw the new GAP ad for black pants and black turtle necks. I thought FINALLY someone gets it. A look anyone can be polished and sophisticated in. Black on black- clean, minimal just add large earrings and stir.
I was in H&M the other day. I would have given my right arm back in the day for the Betsy Johnson knockoffs (circa 1960) I saw in that place. Mock turtle neck sleeveless dresses that are just BEGGING to be worn with some black tights. They even had SILVER (be still my heart)! Of course, I stop dead in my tracks and it's a little sad. At 43 years of age, I have to think age appropriate. Listen up folks.... nothing dates you more than trying to dress too young. Over 40 and fabulous? You bet I am, but I know I have to draw a line somewhere. Running around in an inexpensive silver dress would look ridiculous not to mention cheap. I'll leave those for the 20 somethings. In the meantime, I can enjoy black tights and turtlenecks all over again. Ah! The simple pleasures.
My inspiration back in the day.
The GAP grabs a fashion icon for inspiration.
I got home from work this morning and its a gorgeous day. I grabbed up the girls for some pics. Say Cheese!
Lea, Me & Jessica
Need more inspiration for exercise, diet or just what to put together? I love this number complete with the shoes- so cute.
The hats, the bathing suits and the clothing of Melissa Odabash are so sophisticated and comfortable looking. I can't believe the prices either, very affordable for such fine quality. If you are on a diet and need some motivation, look no further than Melissa's site.
Look at Sandra addressing her desire to not be a thin lipped Republican. HEHE. Love this.
D&G design undies as seen on the Italian football team- Whoa!
What the hell is Kim Jong Il wearing? At first I thought it was a jump suit, like the kind a service station attendant wears. Then I realized the man never let go of the leisure suit. Oh well Laura Bush is still sporting the Dorothy Hamil haircut and a uniform, right? CNN reports that Kim (I'm thinking his friends call him that) is only five foot three inches tall and wears......get this......platform shoes. Looks like we have a new Lil' Kim. Holla!
Today's retail field trip took me to the Plaza at King of Prussia. Several lovely purchases were made. I should be all set for my vacation- I can't wait!
* Silver hoop earrings (Lord & Taylor)
* Frederic Fekkai curl conditioner and a cherry lip gloss (Sephora)
* Two scarfs (Lucky Brand)
* A 20 minute glorious chair massage
* One pair of jeweled sandals (Nordstrom)
* A staw hat (Nordstrom)
I love this dress (As seen on P. Hilton) and the shoes. I want to find out where she got the dress. The other day PH was seen wearing a really cool Ciao Manhattan tee-shirt with Edie on it and I did manage to locate that but decided on a Turner Classic Movie tee instead. I want to find this dress!
Click image to enlarge
Mindy Tamaccio
She arches the brows of many a high-profile Philadelphian and will do yours, too, either through private appointment or at one of her visits to salons like Bluemercury. Her rate of $25 for 25 minutes is a bargain, considering her eye for choosing the right shape for your face. -Best of Philadelphia 2005
Update: Appointment set for April 17th at 12:30pm!
Yesterday, I woke just in the nick of time to make my hair appointment at 1pm. I was really due for a trim as evidenced in this pic from Fluid nightclub the night before...
A lot of not so tamed hair before the cut. click to enlarge
Anne the stylist and I were talking about how easy this Winter has been. Of course the importance of staying out of the sun and using an SPF every day was agreed upon. I'm outdoors a lot and I really haven't had to bundle up... YET. Last night that all changed. The temperature plummeted to 29 degrees and the wind is whipping; we even had a power outage. I'm off on Monday (MLK day) but after that I will be forced to deal with the elements.
Back in Jan. 5, 1904 Pennsylvania's temperature was -42. I can't imagine living and working in those conditions. Of course I will never forget the blizzard of 96'. There were 80 deaths and Philadelphia saw 30.7 inches (old record--21.3 on Feb 11-12, 1983). Fortunately, I have the kind of job that does cancel in bad weather, but bitter cold days don't count as bad weather.
The thing that is the most lovely about Winter of course is the snow covered scenery. I have been snowboarding and I love the view that comes with being on a mountain. Taking my nieces out to play in the snow is always fun when followed by a tradition of hot chocolate as their little socks and mittens dry on the heater. One Jan. about five years ago, I got my helix piercing done by Luis at Infinite Body Piercing. Afterwards I stepped out side and my friend and I walked down South St. I remarked at how good the cold felt on my new piercing and after that half hour walk in the cold, I never had a bit of pain.
The forecast for next week says a chance of showers. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the low 30s. At least I get an extra day to dig out my gloves scarf and hat. Brrrr
After the cut, still keeping warm.
The late Edie
Siena Miller as the dull Edie.
The fabulous Edie
I have a great idea. Since Siena *yawn* Miller is Edie in the new Warhol biopic, why not do a Dumpsta Players Production starring The Divine Ms Jimmi? I think the casting is perfect! Ms Jimmi clearly has a the stage presence and the lip gloss required to pull it off. Hmm all thats needed now is to cast Warhol.
I'm fascinated by the Japanese fashion scene
Just an American girl, in the Tokyo streets
My boyfriend bought me a Hysteric Glamour shirt
They're hard to find in the states, got me feeling couture (it's really cool)~ Harajuku Girls by: Gwen Stefani
Gwen sings about it, the world over is imitating it and I've been wanting to post about Harajuku style for quite some time. The first time I saw amazingly fashionable Japanese girls was in Hawaii. They were a gorgeous sight to behold and I was spellbound. They were shopping like mad for all the designer stuff and wearing it in eye popping ways.
Fruits is a magazine about Japanese street style I discovered a while back. Guys are as into it as girls. Now that Harajuku style is taking center stage, you may wonder how an American is supposed to translate the look and still be taken seriously. Two factors I have noticed since studying Harajuku style is first, layers and the second is color. Sure an American is going to tame the look but the influence is still present. Check it out for yourself and play if you dare.
Today Jeanna and I hit the MAC store and Sephoria for a day of beauty purchases. Cosmetics are a much more gratifying addiction than food, no calories and one looks better afterwards. As a stylist, Jeanna qualifies for 30% off at any MAC store! One hundred and eight dollars after the discount wasn't bad for everything I came home with in my goodie bag. Eyeshadows, lipgloss, brushes, liners and moisturizers are now ours for the playing. Alex, a cute little makeup artist adopted us and showed us the way to a spring look. Purple to play up Jeanna's baby blues and green to off set my tawny brown eyes. Today was just what the doctor ordered for me and we decided we are worth it.
These are pearls thanks to
Crest White Strips. Wow, I need shades to look at my choppers now.
Today I made a pilgrimage via King of Prussia Mall to Sephora's. I love Sephora's. High end cosmetics are my downfall. I literally could spend hundreds of dollars in that place. I fondly recall combing Sephora's in the Paris, New York and Miami locales. I've tried every product they carry. I want to work there truly I do, but I wouldn't make any money. Highlights from today’s trip were as follows....
♥ Aromessence Angelique Night Balm
★ Cheek color cream in Cha Cha
Skip It- I came across this box of shimmer by Jessica Simpson's Dessert line. The packaging is small, very slight. The shimmer is nothing special and not particularly fine granules. Benefit makes a much nicer body shimmer in more elegant packaging for a lot less.
Score It!- Nars Duo eyeshadow colors are light with incredible shimmer for spring. Smudge across the lids and let the natural sunlight set your eyes a sparkle. Lovely flattering shades.
Melissa Etheridge, fresh off of chemo treatments for breast cancer kicked ass at the Grammy's with her voice and her bald head. Dammit that's right girl claim that moment it's yours. She is a true rocker. I'm so sick of the "standard" definition for beauty. Life changes our appearence changes our bodies change. Why jam yourself into some mold if that's not where you are? It's dull and unimaginative. I say take what you have and let shine. Inspire those around you to do the same. Perfection isn't real. Authentic beauty, whether that's fat, thin, straight hair or curly is where it's at man.
By:Tony
Excuse me while I vent.
We have decorators in one room of the house (I have to get rid of those ‘Vote Kerry/Edwards on Tuesday’ posters I superglued to the walls) and suddenly every other room in the place is filled with junk from the room being worked on.
I mean its bad – where did all this stuff come from? boxes and bags all over the place object d’art piled up and looking like a fire bombed yard sale…
Two days and I’m living like a Frenchman! All I need is half pack of Gauloises and a pig in the parlor and I’m Jack Chirac…
Nobody suffers like I do……
The following post is dedicated to my good friend Bret Patelski (1978-2004). Bret passed away suddenly at his home and will be greatly missed by all of us who knew him. Bret "tortured" me for describing my Friday night hair appointments on his message board. He couldn't believe I treated getting my hair done as a big event. The following post is for you Bret, cause I know you would busted on me for it. ~ Love, Liz
Photo of hawk by: Liz
Today Saturday in the driving rain, I ventured out to my hair appointment. The weather is really a mess here and only the thoughts of getting my color done could push me out the door to face the down pour.
Allison my stylist, showed me how to do a "faux hawk" after she dried my hair. I love the style and thought it would be nice to wear to work on the days I don't wash my hair. The look has been seen all over on young actress' like Scarlett Johanson. It was easier to do than I thought and should last me a day or two. I just tease the front and top and secure with a rubber band. Then, I pull the sides back and secure with combs. It's a way to wear my hair up, look current and pulled together on those tired dreary mornings.
Walking down the street I spot this store that sells Mexican and South American imports. I love imported handcrafted things as most of you know if you read this blog on any kind of regular basis. I have been eyeing this Frida tote bag for about three weeks. Today, I had time and decided to investigate further. I walked in the store, asked the price and presented the plastic. Who is Frida and why is she on a bag? I guess the bag wouldn't catch your eye unless you know who is Frida Kahlo. I love her work and this bag was dirt cheap.
Frida Hangs Out At My House Click to enlarge
Last night I connected with some new friends for dinner and drinks. One of the people in attendance was Tammy. She was wearing a beautiful earring and necklace set, that while I noticed, in retrospect, I failed to comment on. We had interesting dinner chitchat and Tammy shared that she is an avid biker. (She has the athletic shape to prove it.) Dinner and conversation lasted for a few hours, but finally they were turning the lights out on us. The gab fest continued out on the sidewalk as we exchanged pleasantries. Tammy handed me her card and we agreed to keep in touch. Her business card said BroadMinded Designs.com. I checked it out today and had no idea Tammy created the striking jewelry she was wearing! I'm keen on the colors of the beads as well as the combination of shapes. I appreciate the taste level of the pieces and most of all they are amazingly affordable for handcrafted jewelry. Need a gift, or just need to treat yourself, check out this site and get something unique from talented Tammy.
One of my personal favorites!
With a new season comes a new look. I like to mix it up a bit, just to keep things interesting for myself. I love the coral lips and the rosy cheeks. I don't do tans or tanning salons, but I will do Clarins Self Tanning Gel, its awesome for a glowing look. Blue and green eye shadows are big, so fun colors are easy to find. I love the silver eye shadows too; they really brighten up my eyes. I have the chunky bangs swept over to the side and I'm loving the short choppy pixies. Hair is layered and textured. Use leave in conditioner mixed with a little gel for the defined look. Red hair color sizzles for spring. Lightening color or adding highlights are best done by a professional. I know many people fear change, but I remind them change is healthy. Embracing change makes it fun, not frightening and can easily take years off of your current look.
My eyes rockin the silver shadow
Nails are plain and simple, which I love.
Hair is in its natural state, thank goodness. Mine was fried from straightening.
This length pant can be dressed up or worn casual with flats.
I bought a bag like this today. It wasn't from Marc Jabobs though!
Add a bright shoe no matter what your foot size. These look so rich.
Is it me?
Can I be the only person who thinks this way?
I was looking at the image of the American chanteuse with the rather butch physique and total inability to comprehend the meaning of the word style alongside a photo of English transsexual and ubermensch of Comedy Eddie Izzard the other day, as is my wont, and I could not help but notice they are remarkably similar.
Separated at birth? Or perhaps something more sinister... You never see them both in the same room after all…
Of course you know Eddie Izzard – he has all these video clips for you to see.
And he sings better than Pink.
My 4 year old niece, Jessica and I were watching my collection of Bjork videos. Jessica became inspired and decided to do my makeup. How could I resist? I had to let her. I can't stifle the child's creativity, besides, at one time, I did people's faces for a living and sold cosmetics, so I understand the love of painting faces. We played, we had fun, I loved it.
The artist, Jessica, and her muse, Aunt Liz. hehe
Tonight is my brother's surprise party. Obviously, he doesn't read this blog so I'm not giving anything away. Here are some pictures of the Winter scene I woke up to this morning. I hope people will make the party in spite of the weather. Those of you on the West coast, aren't you jealous? I've posted some gorgeous pictures, some definitions of beauty on a Saturday morning.
The scene at my house at 8am this morning.
My 2yr old niece, Lea Elizabeth. I have to watch her before the party. Can you tell I will have my hands full?
Dimitri showed me a picture of the homemade pie he was eating. His Mom baked it from scratch. He compares it to tiramisu.
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Last night I was in Jeanna’s salon getting a color refresher, and I took note of all the guys getting marine style buzz cuts. I’m regretful to break the news gentlemen, but I think the super concise clipper cuts are out. As I peruse the magazines, I’m seeing hair over the ears again. Not very long, but not buzzed around the ears either. More like a restrained hippy look. It will still take a man to the office without looking like he slept all night on a park bench. Joao told me he was in such need of a haircut, that he was sporting an afro. I’m all for that look. Just get it trimmed and you’re good to go. I’m also seeing more dreads on men these days. I love dreads. I always have. I wont even mention all the men I see getting color. No more reason for a 30 something to be gray. I think along with the peasant blouses, men want in on the hippy chic look.
I woke up today and decided I needed a change (besides all the others I've under gone recently). I've been wanting to do something saucey with my hair for a while, but hedged. Now I'm suddenly feeling brave. With my birthday coming up this Tuesday, I decided there was no time like the present. I dont have a photo yet, of the new do, but it is based on the fresh look of Catherine Zetta Jones. Thankyou ALLISON, I love my new coiffure.
Jeanna finally colored my hair a very dark brown. It is actually almost black and she went a shade lighter then what I requested. I really love it for now. Its so different than my natural Auburn. I think I'll keep this new color a while, just for fun. Maybe I dreamt of becoming an Asian beauty HA!
Instead, I think I look like an older, less punky version of......
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I've heard a lot of stylists say they hate Carrie's hair this season. They hate the roots, but now it seems that Sarah Jessica Parker has gone dark with the light chunks in front and I love it.
I've been bugging Jeanna, my colorist, to do something different for me. I like the chucks in front on Carrie. Anne says her stylist refuses to do that look, but geez I like it. Right now my hair is all auburn and I want it darker with chucks in front. Jeanna won't go too light. Decisions, decisions.
I want to order these devil horns and i bet you know in which color too! *wink* Shit, they have glow in the dark ones too! Now I'm really torn. Dammit though, it wouldn't be any fun unless I could wear 'em to work! HEHE
Anne went to our Mecca in South Beach recently, Sephora. Bless her heart, she picked me up a little ditty that we have both been eyeing for quite some time.
That right! Kitten body glitter. hehe What fun we shall have with a sparkle in our eye and a glitz on our skin.
