Ask The Fashionista: Sun Protection Tuesday, December 19, 2006

I swore to myself that I was going to bed early, but as I quickly glossed over the names in my inbox one name in particular caught my eye; it belonged to my long-time friend, Nanora. This email was slightly different because it came from her indirectly. Whenever someone leaves a comment on this website an email notification is sent to me. So, I was eager to read what Nanora had to say because she has been a long time supporter of my crazy ideas and whims. I’m sure she remembers the time when I declared that I was becoming a soap-maker. Yeah, I thought you’d get a kick out of that one. Although she may have been thinking, “What is this girl doing now,” she never voiced a negative opinion, but rather made me believe that I could do it and even offered to be my guinea pig. Girl, thank you!

Nanora, here’s the answer to your sunblock question. There is a product line that really works well for my skin, and that is Skinceuticals. They offer four types of sun protection cremes, but I would recommend you use their Daily Sun Defense SPF 20 which is great to wear without or with a foundation. Skinceuticals uses zinc oxide, which absorbs sun rays rather then scatter them like titanium dioxide; thereby, extending your protection. When you’re ready to hit the mountains for camping, skiing, or snowboarding then I recommend you use their SPF 45, designed for higher altitudes. You can purchase Skinceuticals online at drugstore.com, at Equinox Spa on Wilshire Blvd., or Skin Systems on Westwood Blvd.

I hope that answers your question. Also, I added two links to my blogroll just for you. Every single one of those websites do an outstanding job of reviewing unique, interesting products that I’m sure you’ll enjoy trying.

Sleeping Beauty Monday, December 18, 2006

I know this may sound crazy, but there was a period in my life when I would go to bed in full diva mode. I had a night time ritual that included applying a generous amount of cream to my hands before carefully sliding them into a pair of sleeping gloves. Yes, I wore gloves to bed and a sleeping mask. Can you picture that?    

When life got a little more hectic, things changed slightly. Although I still apply “an extremely thick, emollient” moisturizer to my hands at night, long gone are the gloves, eye mask, and special socks. Also, I still take good care of my face at night, and will tell you exactly what products I use to achieve great skin in a post tomorrow. I guess I should tell you that I stopped wearing gloves when school got a little crazy and I was only getting 30 minutes of sleep at night. Even though life happens, it’s imperative to reclaim those beauty rituals that make us feel most special. Additionally, I think it’s very important for a woman, regardless of what is going on in her life, to do what’s necessary to achieve optimal well-being, both emotionally and physically. 

Sometimes we can change how we feel by changing what we wear. Today, I’m going to show you some cute items that are sure to not only make you feel pretty, but also turn you into a sleeping beauty.  

Kiki De Montparnasse makes some of the most beautiful, sophisticated lingerie on the face of this planet. My picks are (from left to right):

The French lace trim Baby Doll ($395) & satin chiffon bloomers ($145), 100% silk short Flutter Robe ($250), and my most favorite, the Multi Romper with French lace pockets ($495) which is perfect for hanging around the house in style.

Pretty In Pink Sunday, December 17, 2006

Did you know that pink symbolizes joy and happiness in Catholicism? Maybe that’s where the phrase ‘tickled pink’ was derived. Prior to the early 20th century, colors were not assigned to a specific gender, and pink was not always thought of as being a feminine color, but rather masculine. Why? Because pink was considered a watered down red, which is bold, fierce, and strong while blue was dainty and delicate, a girl’s color.  Interesting!

Don’t ask me how the color pink became associated with girls because I’m not sure; however, I do know that little girls are very pretty in pink. Girls look great in other colors too, but there is just something special about pink. And, your little cutie patootie would look absolutely adorable in these precious hand-painted flower shoes ($37) from Miss Priss.

“Oh my god!” and “How cute is this!” were the words that came from my mouth when I found Cute Little Me’s website, filled with unique, cute clothes perfect for my little fashionista. The name of the store is so befitting! What’s also great about Cute Little Me are the reasonable prices, meaning you won’t have to sacrifice your sense of style and fashion creativity.   

This Shilav denim jacket sales for $36, the Japanese tee for $29, and cords for $27.50. 

Okay, I can’t resist. I have to show you these cute Indo-Chine cropped denim pants ($23).

Aren’t they adorable! I’m so grateful for stores like Cute Little Me because they make is a lot easier to find special, one of a kind clothes for little girls.  

Look out world, here comes my fashionable little princess, my ray of light.

Naturally Kinky Part 2 Friday, December 15, 2006

Before I go on to tell you about a really great shampoo and conditioner for textured hair, I want to give you some more information about Miss Jessie’s products. I received an email from Nicole, telling me how much she really likes using Miss Jessie’s Curly Meringue. The Curly Meringue works well for her, especially for hitting the town at night when she desires a tighter curly look with a glossy shine. It really defines Nicole’s curls. I’ll remind you again that Miss Jessie’s products are on a buy one get one free promotion until the 31st of this month.

Now, when I decided to stop perming my hair eight years ago, I stumbled across a book entitled, Let’s Talk Hair by Pamela Ferrell. In it, she details the history of our “battle with the naps” and self-esteem, selecting the right hair products, and styling tips, among other things. Well, Pamela is also the owner of Cornrows & Company, a salon in Washington, D.C. She also sells a full line of natural haircare products for all hair types. My favorite is the Coconut Shampoo ($10.99) because it leaves my hair soft and more manageable. It also contains coconut oil, which is a great scalp conditioner.  

My favorite conditioner is the Sweet Orange Conditioner ($11.99). I absolutely love the blended smell of lavender, sweet orange, rosemary, and lemon. This wonderful conditioner doubles as a deep conditioner and daily moisturizer. It’s also infused with a power house of good for your hair herbs.

Cornrows & Co.’s Island Citrus Pomade Oil ($17.99) is also a winner and is great for those with press and curls or perms. It doesn’t sit on your scalp, nor does it leave a greasy residue. While this is great for dry hair, I still think Miss Jessie’s Buttercreme is a better moisturizer for extremely dry hair, and again I do not recommend the Buttercreme for press and curls.

Before I go, you should also consider purchasing the Turbo Hair Dryer ($29.95) and nozzle ($11.99). This is the same blow dryer Cornrows & Co.’s stylists use on their clients.  When I bought this hair dryer a few years ago, it was the best decision I ever made. 

Luscious Body Cream Thursday, December 14, 2006

Several days ago my cell phone rang, so I picked it up and said, “Hello.” The person responded with a faint hello; nonetheless, I was unable to assign the voice on the other end to a familiar one. “Hello.” There’s a slight few seconds delay on the line. It’s not until the caller calls my name and says, “This is Nicole,” that I’m able to recognize it is the voice of a friend, calling from Los Angeles to save me from a potentially embarrassing situation. At the end of our conversation she gives me the most delightful news. “We sent you a package,” she says. What people don’t know about me is how much I absolutely love getting things in the mail. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve been that way. I guess I’m just always hopeful something exciting will find its way into my mailbox.

 

Last week, while out taking care of business, I decided to go home before making another mandatory stop. Once I got inside, I started thumbing through the mail I had collected just before entering; and guess what I found, a note from the postman, informing me that I could pick up my package tomorrow from the office. Isn’t it strange how the postman decides to deliver the mail earlier than his normal time when you’re expecting something? Well, there was no way I was going to let that package sit overnight. I ran out of the house with my little slip and jumped into my car determined to find the man who was holding my goods hostage. I used some deductive reasoning which led me up one street, and there he was. He was somewhat hesitant at first, but he must have sensed that I was ready to take him down if he didn’t hand over my box.

 

Once I opened the package, I discovered Trish McEvoy’s Blackberry & Vanilla Musk body cream, Wild Blueberry Vanilla candle (smells heavenly), and a makeup bag with eye shadow and sheer lip gloss. I’ll tell you about McEvoy’s other products in another post, but for now I want to give you some information about the body cream.

 

I loved the scent of blackberries and vanilla right from the start, but we all know the smell changes once you apply it to your body. However, I was pleasantly surprised; the fragrance actually smelled better on. The sweet subtle scent of white rose (the bottom note) lasted the whole day. Surprisingly, the luscious body cream works for my dry skin. I use the term ‘work’ because it doesn’t leave my skin as soft as I would like; nevertheless, it serves its purpose, alleviating the appearance of parched skin and provides a light scent. Also, it does contain shimmer, which is great for summer or if you’re spending a night out on the town.

 

And, the best part about this cream is my name engraved on the lid. How special is that? Thanks, Nanora, Nicole, & Marvina! 

 

Trish McEvoy’s body cream sells for $48 at Neiman Marcus for 3.5 oz. It’s fashiolicious!

Naturally Kinky Wednesday, December 13, 2006

Okay now, I’m just talking about my hair, and if you know me well, then nine times out of ten you have heard me complain about just how thick and nappy my hair is. Everytime this subject comes up in a telephone conversation my friend, Carol, laughs as if she’s listening to a really funny stand up comedian at the Comedy Store. The truth is, I’ve always had issues with my hair; from the time I was a young girl to now I suffered from extremely dry coarse hair, completely devoid of shine. Because it was so brittle, my hair was constantly breaking off. My hairdresser used to compare my hair with steel wool. Humph! I was once turned away from a braiding salon because of my naturally kinky hair. ”Come back when you get a perm,” she said. What!

As luck would have it, several months ago, I was talking to a childhood friend, Nanora, who suggested I try Miss Jessie’s Baby Buttercreme. She went on to tell me the changes she noticed since using the product and also how it has made life a little easier for another friend, Nicole, who uses the product on her nine-year-old daughter’s thick mane. Sage’s hair is no where near as kinky as mine, but I was willing to give it try. So I asked the girls at Miss Jessie’s a few questions, got online, and purchased the Curly Pudding ($38) and Baby Buttercreme ($58).

Once I received my package in the mail, I washed my hair then applied the product. The results were amazing! I can honestly say that I love the way this product makes my hair feel and look. Whenever I use the Baby Buttercreme I can’t stop staring at my hair; it actually looks soft. It really defines my natural curl pattern and adds a must needed shine to my hair, and it smells good. This creme is the perfect moisturizer for dry coarse hair; however, it’s also great for all types of textured hair. 

The creme is great, but the Curly Pudding didn’t really work for me. It is important to know your curl pattern, since it only works well for certain types. I also discovered that I could get the same results with the Baby Buttercreme. If you’re wearing a press and curl, I strongly advise you not to use this product. Trust me, your hair will look like you stepped outside into the hot humid Mississippi air because the creme contains some water.

The Curly Buttercreme contains peppermint oil which gives it a cooling effect, other then that there is no difference between it and the Baby Buttercreme. If you want a creme for your child then I suggest you use the Baby Buttercreme.

Now, I know you’re thinking about the hefty price tag, but trust me it is well worth the price. Besides, Miss Jessie is running a buy one get one free sale until the end of this month. I most definitely will be placing an order this week.  

Fashion Meets Chocolate Monday, December 11, 2006

MTV’s, My Super Sweet Sixteen, featuring spoiled teens showcasing their over-the-top soirees, has every fifteen-year-old on the face of this planet plotting and scheming ways to cajole parents into providing the funds for their next milestone birthday production. I should know because my sister, Hepsie, was one of them. So when she asked me, in the beginning of this year, to help with planning her sweet sixteen party I immediately went to work in hopes of finding cool and unforgettable items that would make her, once in a lifetime, event stand out from the rest.

I didn’t have a particular theme, but was sure that I would find something eye catching to act as my guide. I hit the jackpot when I discovered Choco Choco House, where fashion meets chocolate. I quickly fell in love with the handmade Choco Choco handbag and shoe truffles, made with the freshest ingredients and finest chocolates from Belgium and France.

Choco Choco House’s lolli-chocolate shoes pictured above are a part of their Femme Collection, all are available individually wrapped in a clear box. You can mix ‘em up or buy them in pairs. The price for one pair of chocolate shoes is $5. 

Choco Choco House’s exquisite chocolate handbags are available in several different designs and comes wrapped in a package that is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser. My favorite design is, Kitty in the Garden, a dark chocolate shell filled with dark chocolate ganache. It cost about $20 for a box of six and 24 2-piece party favors are priced at $156.

These fashionable treats will make great party favors for your next all girl shindig.  

It’s so fashiolicious!  

Flower Child Saturday, December 9, 2006

I can’t tell you how or where I first discovered Tres Jolie; however, I can tell you that Glenda, the owner, sells some of the most unique, high quality jewelry and accessories in the Los Angeles area. You’ll be able to find pieces to accentuate, awaken, and revive your wardrobe. 

If you’re like me, then you’re trying to live life like it’s golden and the items you wear express the very essence of who you are. This collection of rings is for the flower child in you. The price for one of these cuties range from $45 to $120, depending on the type of stone. The sterling silver bracelet with rose quartz semi-precious stone flower sells for $65.   

Premium Denim Craze, Pt. 1 Saturday, December 9, 2006

There is no denying it, owning a few pairs of denim is a vital necessity, and a couple of premium denims won’t hurt either. The fact is, jeans are functional and can be dressed down or dressed up. They look great with a t-shirt and flip flops or a blazer and Manolo’s.

Just a mere mention in a magazine or celebrity pictured wearing a pair of premium denims, will spark a major boost in sales. No need to wonder why there are over 50 premium denim designers in the market today. This series will attempt to introduce you to a portion of them and show you what’s new with the more familiar ones.    

Anyone can spot a pair of 7’s on the street these days because of their distinct label and design; however, this season designers over at seven seem to be changing things up a bit in order to compete with other high end brands on the market.

Feeling a little nostalgic? For spring 07, 7 for All Mankind introduces consumers to the Farrah trouser jean in mercer, which sells for $209. It is amazing how designers were actually able to capture the essence of Farrah in this design. They’re so reminiscent of the Charlie’s Angels’ days.

I can’t say that I will be rushing out to buy a pair anytime soon. While I absolutely love the design of the jeans, just by looking at the them I can tell these jeans are not made for girls with hips and butt. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying they only look appealing on the skinny model featured in the photo. A woman with curves can pull these off, but a woman with ample curves can not. It’s all about knowing your body type and selecting cute clothes accordingly, which is imperative for looking great in your clothes. 

Little Fashionista’s 1st Birthday Saturday, December 9, 2006

As soon as I discovered the baby I was carrying was a girl, I immediately began searching for unique ideas to create the ultimate most memorable 1st birthday party. Since my little fashionista is only 3 months old, you’re probably thinking that it’s much too early to start planning for a 1st birthday, but as you know this party has to be chic and savvy, and a lot of time is necessary if I want to pull this off sucessfully. 

So when I happened upon Cake and Ice Cream’s website a few months before the birth of my daughter, I was thrilled with the exclusive items they offered for the stylish birthday princess. Cake and Ice Cream offers an array of custom party hats that can be monogramed with your baby’s initials or name for a more personal touch. You should also know that Cake and Ice Cream’s gorgeous hats are also available for boys and the young at heart. 

In the near future, their line will expand to include custom bibs, table cloths, and placemats. Hopefully, this will take place before September 2007 because my baby girl’s party definitely won’t be a party without Cake and Ice Cream.