5th Annual WindowsWear Awards: A spotlight on creative displays

A week and a half ago, WindowsWear invited me to its 5th Annual Awards party at Up & Down. For the last 5 years, WindowsWear has been honoring innovative, outstanding fashion window displays all around the world. This year, notable brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Louboutin, Gucci, Fendi, Marc Jacobs, Hermes, and many more received awards in a number of different window display categories. I’m amazed by how many unique window displays are designed throughout the year with the most fascinating details. Windows Wear certainly gives them the spotlight they deserve. The party’s guests and I viewed a vibrant slideshow that showcased all of the nominees as well as this year’s winners.

We all toasted the winners with champagne and specialty vodka cocktails. Mike Niemtzow, Jon Harari, and Raul Tovar, the WindowsWear executive team, thanked everyone for coming out. They also announced the best fashion window displays winners. As the evening progressed, guests let loose and started dancing. It was quite the party! Congrats to all of the 5th Annual WindowsWear Awards winners!

 

7 Charming Sisters: A stylish trendsetting brand

Smart, creative, and stylish brands intrigue me. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered 7 Charming Sisters. Seven “work sisters” who’ve worked together for 10 to 15 years created this innovative jewelry brand. The sisters are: Paula, the sophisticated Classy Chick; Kim, the vibrant Life of the Party; Jennifer, the go-to Fashionista; Donalda, the flirtatious Social Butterfly; Jessica, the smart and Sexy Nerd; Kimberly, the cute Girl Next Door; and Melissa, the sporty Super Mom. I love how all of the jewelry pieces resonate with a variety of personalities and have intricate details. They embrace style, vibrancy, and glamour.

I like all of the different collections but I especially love the Best Dressed Earrings and Your Stock Is Up Necklace. The Best Dressed Earrings are part of the Paula collection and are perfect with a little black dress or even a dressy top and a sequin skirt. I love how from different angles you can either see the smoky gray crystals, the gold details, or a sparkly shine first. Your Stock Is Up Necklace is from the Jessica collection and it’s the perfect party statement. The layering is stunning and it has multiple materials including gold plated zinc metal alloy, crystals, and synthetic pearls. My style goes from classy sophistication to party ready so I like that I can pick pieces from the different collections.  Check out how I styled the pieces down below!

7 Charming Sisters is not only fashionably-oriented but community-oriented as well. It’s dedicated to helping people with disabilities to find jobs and hires disabled people to work in their studio. These individuals handcraft a number of the brand’s pieces. I feel good wearing these pieces knowing that there’s a socially conscious aspect behind 7 Charming Sisters.  What a clever and stylish brand!

*This post is sponsored by and in collaboration with 7 Chaming Sisters.

 

34 Heritage: A premium brand for impeccable style

Happy New Year everyone! There are some exciting developments coming this year. I’m especially excited about the Spring 2017 collection coming from 34 Heritage, a premium men’s denim brand that focuses on handcrafted details, comfort, and luxury. It’s designed for the refined man who might wear a suit to the office, but occasionally wants to wear a sophisticated casual look at work. Or, he might want to kick back with a pair of jeans when he gets home. Ardie Ulukaya, President of 34 Heritage, mentioned to me that the brand caters to men in the 35 and up age bracket that are looking for broad sizes and high-quality fabrics.

For Spring 2017, the denim’s high-quality fabrics are light-weight and come in a range of colors such as indigo, grey, sand, brick, white, and beige. The jeans are available in a straight leg, tapered leg, and classic leg fit with enticing style names such as Courage, Charisma, and Cool. I’m even impressed with the shorts styles and denim jackets that are part of this upcoming season’s collection. 34 Heritage’s Spring 2017 collection is dropping this month online at Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Allen Edmonds, and on the brand’s e-commerce site, which will be launching in the next few weeks. It will also be available at select Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom stores, and other specialty stores across the US and Canada. Check out some of my favorite pieces from the collection down below. I hope you love this stylish, polished collection as much as I do. Let me know what your favorite pieces are!

Photo by: 34 Heritage

2016 Holiday gift guide: Gifts that make a statement

‘Tis the season to give and receive coveted gifts! Looking for some great gift ideas? Here are some of my favorite options that cover everything from beauty, fashion, to lifestyle:

1) Sarah Moon for NARS Holiday Collection– NARS and fashion photographer Sarah Moon partnered up to deliver a makeup collection inspired by iconic cinema. The colors are beautiful and striking! The collection includes Moon Matte Lipsticks, Blushes, Duo Eyeshadow, Kohliner, Eyelashes, Nail Polishes, and a series of gifting sets such as the True Story Cheek Lip Stylized Palette. Whatever you gift from the collection, will surely make a stunning statement!

2) Miracle Skin Transformer 4-pc. Spa Facial Gift Set– This gift set is perfect for delivering moisturized, glowing skin. It includes Miracle Skin Transformer Hydroactive cleanser, Triple Active Night Treatment, Miracle Revival Mud, and a facial cleansing brush. It’s the ultimate at-home spa experience!

3) Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare 2-pc. Ageless Beauty Gift Set– This product duo fights the signs of aging around the neck and eyes. It includes Uplight Firming Cream and Refocus Eye Serum. These products deliver a rejuvenating, pampering treatment!

4) Tweezerman Rose Gold Love Story Gift Set– With rose gold being the latest trend, this set is perfect for the beauty lover that wants to achieve stunning brows and lashes in style. It includes a Slant Tweezer and a ProCurl Eyelash Curler that come in a festive, eye-catching travel bag. This gift exemplifies sophisticated luxury and crave-worthy style!

5) AVEDA petal essence™ eye color trio in Violet Bloom– This set is perfect for the makeup lover who loves soft yet noticeable, long-lasting colors. Each beautiful color is infused with aromatic floral waxes delivering a pleasant, floral scent. The trio is talc-free and compact so your giftee can easily take it with her on the go!

6) AVEDA an escape from stress is a gift– For that friend that has a stressful work schedule, give her this hourishing and relaxing gift. It includes stress-fix™ creme cleansing oil, stress-fix™ body crème, stress-fix™ hand crème, and a stress-fix™ soy wax candle. All of these products reduce the feelings of stress with a welcoming aroma, and the body care products provide the ultimate moisture. The set is a great way to be calmer and to smell lovely!

7) Deep Euphoria– This fragrance has an intoxicating scent that starts off with cascalone and black magic rose, and then ends with notes of musk. It’s sensual, sophisticated, and mesmerizing. For the gal who loves deep floral scents, this gift will surely win her over!

8) 2012 Sofia Méthode Champenoise– This sparkling wine has a refreshing, fruity, and smooth taste. It’s crafted in the traditional Champagne method and features the aromas of citrus blossoms, brioche, and pears balanced by flavors of white peaches, lemons, and a hint of minerals. Each bottle comes in clear cellophane tied with a vibrant pink ribbon. It’s a perfectly beautiful gift for a sparkling wine aficionado!

9) Stella Artois 2016 Holiday Gift Pack- What better way to celebrate the season than with an iconic Belgian beer? This set, which is available at stores nationwide, comes with a 750ml cork and cage bottle along with 2 limited edition holiday chalices. The packaging is absolutely stunning. Or if you looking for a sophisticated, balanced cider, a pack of Stella Artois cans or bottles make the perfect gift. With either option, your giftee will soon “Host One To Remember!”

10) Chandon “Merry Whatever” Limited Edition Holiday 2016 Brut– This year, Chandon reached out to Rebecca Minkoff to create some playful and edgy designs for its holiday bottle. The bottle is available in  2 colors: sleek, casual white and stylishly bold black. Sporting Minkoff’s signature gold stud pattern, both options make for festive, memorable gifts!

11) Timberland Women’s Atlantic Heights Tall Waterproof Boots-These stylish, everyday boots have premium full-grain leather uppers and are super comfortable. They come in black or brown. If you’re looking for something more rustic-chic, the Women’s Wheelwright Tall Lace-up Waterproof Boots in Dark Brown or Dark Orange are another great option. Additionally, the Men’s Williams River Quarter-Zip Sweater is the perfect layering gift for the cold weather. It’s available in Grey Heather, Dark Navy, and Bright Blue. It’s made from 100% organic cotton jersey and feels super comfortable!

12) Brook & York Name Bar Necklace– This piece of jewelry is the perfect way to show your gratitude to a friend or loved one. It comes in rose gold, gold, or silver and can be personalized. This necklace is great for everyday wear and exudes unique appeal!

13) NFL New York Giants The Northwest Company 55″ x 53.5″ Silk Touch Wrap Blanket with Applique and New York Giants Split Logo Reversible Scarf– These two items are perfect for the football fashionista, especially for the winter season. Gift them together for the perfect combo of staying warm indoors and outdoors!

14) SAXX Vibe Boxer Modern Fit- This boxer style comes in a variety of colors and patterns such as Cloud Mini Moguls, which is great for the winter season. It’s not only trendy, but also comfortable with a cool, viscose material. It delivers contact-free support and a perfect fit- a gift that’s sure to impress!

Each one of these gifts is thoughtful, unique, and crave-worthy. Happy shopping!

Sarah Moon for NARS Holiday Collection (Photo by: NARS)

Miracle Skin Transformer 4-pc. Spa Facial Gift Set (Photo by: Miracle Skin Transformer )

Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare 2-pc. Ageless Beauty Gift Set (Photo by Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare)

Rose Gold Love Story Gift Set (Photo by: Tweezerman)

AVEDA petal essence™ eye color trio in Violet Bloom (Photo by: AVEDA)

AVEDA an escape from stress is a gift (Photo by: AVEDA)

Deep Euphoria (Photo from: calvinklein.com)

2012 Sofia Méthode Champenoise (Photo by: Francis Ford Coppola Winery)

Stella Artois 2016 Holiday Gift Pack (Photo by: Stella Artois)

Stella Artois Cidre (Photo by: Stella Artois)

Chandon “Merry Whatever” Limited
Edition Holiday 2016 Brut (Photo from: chandon.com)

Women’s Atlantic Heights Tall Waterproof Boots (Photo by: Timberland)

Women’s Atlantic Heights Tall Waterproof Boots (Photo by: Timberland)

Men’s Williams River Quarter-Zip Sweater (Photo by: Timberland)

Brook & York Name Bar Necklace (Photo by: Brook & York )

NFL New York Giants The Northwest Company 55″ x 53.5″ Silk Touch Wrap Blanket with Applique (Photo from: NFLshop.com)

New York Giants Split Logo Reversible Scarf (Photo from: NFLshop.com)

Saxx Vibe Boxer Modern Fit (Photo by: Saxx)

beautypress Spotlight Day: A fall showcase of inventive brands

Last month, beautypress invited me to its fall season beautypress Spotlight Day at Midtown Loft and Terrace. I learned about some exceptional beauty brands at the event. I enjoyed talking to reps for PARODI Professional Care, a skincare line for dry, sensitive, and irritated hands and feet. I also discovered Mirai Clinical, a Japanese skincare line that is driven by the philosophy less is more. BCL Naturals impressed me with its natural haircare line that delivers true performance. I also enjoyed learning about NOTE Cosmetics, a  global makeup brand of beautiful, rich colors and globally sourced botanicals. Dr. Marder, is an impressive haircare line that addresses dermatitis and seborrhea.

I also came across a few intimate skin care brands at the event. PrivateRX, showcased its skincare line that delivers moisturizing, anti-aging benefits for the skin of a woman’s most intimate area. Summer’s Eve displayed its Cleansing Cloths, Cleansing Wash and other products for feeling fresh down there.

All of the brands had such innovative, useful products. I’m looking forward to trying these products out. Be sure to check them out!

ATRIO: Creative cuisine with a seasonal twist

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending a press dinner at ATRIO Wine Bar & Restaurant, which offers innovative, Mediterranean cuisine in Lower Manhattan. Located in Conrad New York’s 15-story lobby, ATRIO features an open kitchen, a welcoming ambience, and semi-private and private dining spaces. The restaurant recently changed its menu to offer dishes that are perfect for the fall and winter seasons. Some of the current offerings may feature Roasted Beet Salad, House Made Ricotta Cavatelli, Bone-In Filet Mignon, and Honey and Yogurt Panna Cotta. Executive Chef Gerron Douglas and his team passionately create these locally sourced dishes.

In addition to the delicious cuisine, ATRIO has an impressive wine list. I enjoyed trying Loveblock, a pinot gris; Etude, a pinot noir; Silver Oak, a Cabernet Sauvignon; and Blanc des Blancs, a champagne. The restaurant offers an extensive assortment of champagne, white wines, and red wines. The staff at ATRIO is skilled at suggesting the best wine pairings to match its cuisine.

Lastly, I can’t get over the gorgeous decor at ATRIO! Classy wooden tables and floors, comfortable chairs, and plenty of windows fill up the restaurant. Glam, crystal curtains frame the windows. Even the open kitchen is very chic with a marble counter.

Definitely stop by and check out this inventive restaurant, which happens to be having a special New Year’s four-course meal. You will not be disappointed!

 

The atmosphere at ATRIO (photo by: Conrad New York)

The atmosphere at ATRIO (photo by: Conrad New York)

A private dining room at ATRIO (photo by: Conrad New York)

A private dining room at ATRIO (photo by: Conrad New York)

The press dinner menu

The press dinner menu

Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted Beet Salad

House Made Ricotta Cavatelli

House Made Ricotta Cavatelli

Bone-In Filet Mignon

Bone-In Filet Mignon

Honey and Yogurt Panna Cotta

Honey and Yogurt Panna Cotta

Worry Free Pedi tablets: A game-changer for your pedicure

I love treating myself to a pampering, relaxing pedicure at a salon every couple of weeks. However, I get a bit uneasy about how bacteria-free the foot baths are. I’m happy to say that I don’t have to worry about that anymore! I discovered Worry Free Pedi tablets, which are not only insanely cool to watch dissolve, but also kill 99.99% bacterial and fungal contamination in the salon’s foot bath water. You just drop one tablet in the water before the jet blowers are activated, and let it dissolve for 60 seconds. Instantly, with Worry Free Pedi tablets, the foot bath water is completely contamination-free!
Besides the sanitary benefits, I love how compact the tablets are! I carry them in my purse when I know I’m going to get a pedicure. They come in small, cute, purple pouches. Each Worry Free Pedi pack comes with 8 tablets which lasts me at least a couple of months. I totally recommend this product as it’s made my rewarding pedicure that much more enjoyable!

Photo by: worryfreepedi.com

Photo by: worryfreepedi.com

 

This entry was posted in Beauty.

Highlighting fall makeup trends at Pierre Michel Salon

I’m so excited about FACE Stockholm’s, Winky Lux, and Kevin Aucoin’s new fall makeup colors! A few nights ago, I was invited to an intimate event at Pierre Michel Salon to preview them. Everything from highlighters, bronzers, blushes, lipsticks, to much more. Key trends are plums and soft pinks in both the brand’s palettes and individual products. I love the presentation of the products at the salon, which  you can peak at in my photos below.

Additionally, I learned a few tricks that appear in Rae Morris’ best-selling beauty book MAKEUP MASTERCLASS. Katherine Dorn, one of Pierre Michel’s experts, did my makeup using FACE Stockholm, Winky Lux, and Kevin Aucoin products, and I loved it. She has a great eye for color and seeing the products on my face made me love them even more!

Pierre Michel Salon has a beautiful makeup studio in addition to a fabulous hair and beauty area. I definitely will be coming back. What a great way to kick off the holiday season!

 

FACE Stockholm

FACE Stockholm

More FACE Stockholm colors

More FACE Stockholm colors

Kevin Aucoin and Winky Lux

Kevin Aucoin and Winky Lux

Me with new makeup look

Me with new makeup look

Taking Halloween in NYC to a new level

Last weekend, I celebrated Halloween on a boat! Hornblower New York, a premier dinner cruise and private event charter company, hosted a fun Halloween edition cruise called Alive After Five. I was super thrilled to be able to enjoy this incredible experience where you’re on the water for two hours enjoying music, cocktails, bar bites, lounging, and great views. I loved seeing Downtown Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Jersey City waterfront, and the Brooklyn Bridge from the comfort of a luxurious boat! The weather was absolutely perfect with a light breeze, but I like that the boat sails rain or shine.

 
The atmosphere on the boat was just as great as the weather. A lot of guests dressed up and my favorite costumes included Beetle Juice, a witch, a ghost, a 70s disco dancer, and a race car driver. I also liked the Halloween decorations: pumpkin streamers, raven paper lanterns, “BOO!” signs, scary fake animals, and more. The DJ played a great selection of current hits that had the crowd dancing all night. For those who didn’t want to dance, the boat was certainly comfortable with ample chairs and couches. The food was also delicious and included pizza, tomato and mozzarella salad, fries, cheeseburgers, and a veggie spread.

 
This is just one of the many lively boat cruises that Hornblower New York hosts. Following Alive After Five, there was Rock the Yacht, a 3-hour cruise for those who liked a later night. There’s also a Champagne Brunch Cruise, a Lunch Cruise, and City Sightseeing Cruise among other boat experiences during the year. The experiences are entertaining, memorable, and unparalleled. I will definitely be back on a Hornblower New York cruise soon!

 

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Darylynn Eyewear: Artistic frames that get noticed

One of my favorite functional and stylish accessories is a great pair of sunglasses. That’s why I love Darylynn Eyewear.  Darylynn Ayala-Macaluso created the brand, which celebrates the expression of your unique personality through a pair of oversized, show-stopping shades and eyeglasses. The eyewear carries just the right amount of mystery. The vintage-inspired frames are designed in New York and handcrafted in Italy. Each frame has a cool, glamorous name such as VaVoom Vellis, Siren Sabine, Darling Dita, Paris, and Lusciuos Lianne. These high-quality frames are intriguing, statement pieces. The pair I take with me everywhere now is the Bliss style. It has a comfortable fit, and gives me a glam, edgy look!

Speaking of  a glam, edgy look, Darylynn created a collaboration frame with the Ziegfield Club. The frame is called “Nanon” and pays tribute to the designs and glamour of the Ziegfield era. It’s available in three different colors and has that retro look with a modern appeal. I could definitely see the Ziegfeld dancers wearing these sunglasses if they were still around today. Darylynn has such great eye for design and her mix of vintage and contemporary elements is impressive. Her styles are classy and timeless. Definitely check out her beautiful and innovative eyewear collection!

 

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Photo by Darylynn Eyewear

Photo by Darylynn Eyewear

Wearing my Bliss shades!

Wearing my Bliss shades!