Shoe Heaven

Shortly before I began this story to you, I sat fixated in front of my computer; gazing at my most current email from the online...

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FIDM Honors the Designers of Juicy Couture!

On Wednesday, November 12th, I had the opportunity to attend a reception on the park at my alumni, the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. The reception was in honor of the design team, Pamela Skaist-Levy and Gela Nash-Taylor of Juicy Couture, and to unveil the Juicy Couture Dedication Wall.

This was a very exciting and inspirational evening for myself, not just because I had the opportunity to mix & mingle with the fashion elite; but because 1/2 of the Juicy Couture design team, Pamela Skaist-Levy attended FIDM the same years that I attended. Although she was a design major, and I a merchandising/marketing major; we still have something major in common...the love of fashion.

The evenings festivities took place under a tent in the FIDM park. Decorated with the Juicy Couture signature colors of pink & white, guest feasted on a variety of delicious cuisine, while waiting for the guests of honors to make their appearance. While feeling my way through the setting, I had the chance to introduce myself to the FIDM President, Tonian Hohberg and a host of other prestigious staff and faculty. Also, on staff with FIDM, as a instructor, is Nick Verreos (Nikolaki Fashion Owner/Designer) of Project Runway fame in 2005.

When the Juicy Girls (as they are more affectionately known) arrived, the mood in the tent immediately launched into full swing. I watched as members of the media vied for their positions to capture their best shots. The design team thanked the guest for attending. Pamela thanked her husband, CSI and Las Vegas, Producer, Jefery Levy (whom was in attendance) for being a great support. The ladies were then presented with a Proclamation by Council Woman, Jan Perry before we were all escorted upstairs for the unveiling of the Dedication Wall.

I'm amazed by the Juicy Couture story: Pamela and Gela met through mutual friends in 1988. With $200, the ladies began to create and design what would become the beginning of a fashion empire. By 1997, Juicy Couture was launched and has now grown into a major lifestyle brand with products for women, children, men perfume and accessories. Juicy Couture is best known for its somewhat risque pink, terrycloth sweatsuit that had "Juicy" written across the butt. Now, Juicy has a vast variety of merchandise to fit the lifestyles of a host of fashion savvy men, women and children.

First Family Style!

I'm loving the style of our new First Family, the Obamas!!!!
The coordination of colors is absolutely first rate and so on point with the style for Fall 2008.

Every time the family is together, their wardrobe selections pull the entire family together in complete unison. At the Democratic National Convention, I loved the play on the color fuchsia. First Lady, Michelle wore a black sheath dress with floral details. President Obama wore a black suit with a fuchsia and white striped tie. Malia wore a white dress with fuchsia details; and Sasha tied the look together with an adorable fuchsia bubble-hem dress.

The newest photo surfacing of the First Family pictures the entire group in an array of rich jewel tones. They look so refreshing.! I'm looking forward to the coming years; and viewing the styles of the entire Obama Family!

Something Smells Citrusy!

Mmmmm, the smell as you drive into the parking lot of Corona's Dos Lagos is something that will send your appetite into overdrive. The culprit to the scentsation...the Citrus City Grille.

One Saturday afternoon, my husband and I had a day all to ourselves (Papa had the boys), so, we decided to head to my "happy place" to enjoy an afternoon of relaxing and enjoying a good meal. The scent of citrus and herbs permeated the air, and like true epicures, my husband and I allowed our imagination of taste to lead the way.

As we entered the Citrus City Grille, we were amazed by the modern decor; and yet, the Grille also had a very zen-like appeal. The restaurant, with its obvious upscale elements, also lead one to feel at ease and relaxed. As the hostess lead us through the area, and out onto the patio; we noticed many wonderful attributes about the eatery. There was an amazingly clean, open-view kitchen, which we were later told, by the manager, Willyum Gald, that this was created to help customers decide what to order, by first viewing the impressive plating of the entrees. We also strolled by the wine cellar which held over 150 selections.

Are dining area of choice was the patio area that was centered around a grass lawn (there was also a mini putting green). The most wonderful part about this area was the view, which boast the two lakes by which Dos Lagos receives its name. Serene, lovely...tranquil. Out on the grass where several plush sofas and chairs for persons to sip wine and sit quietly while enjoying the view and listen to cool jazz.

Our lunch was delicious and the service was impeccable. We were enjoying ourselves so much that we ended up just sitting and enjoying the scenery...uninterrupted for several hours. Hey, what's the rush...NO KIDS!

Oh yes, I must mention this wonderful feature: Just outside the bathroom was an area just for washing your hands. That's right, rather than going into the restrooms, the Grille created an area specifically for hand-washing. By the way, I took a peak into the potties...they were equally beautiful.

The Citrus City Grille will give you an excellent dining experience. Enjoy!

The Little Red Dress

Currently I'm obsessing over a little red dress (LRD) that I recently purchased from Ann Taylor Loft on clearance...approximately $24 to be exact! Sure we hear all about the glory of the little black dress; or LBD as it is commonly referred to in the fashion world. But, what about the LRD? I was willing to take on the challenge.

After bringing my new purchase home, I hung in neatly in my closet and began to wonder just how I would attempt to accessorize it. After much contemplation, I realized that the LRD isn't that hard to dress at all. After all, it is a primary color. I chose to view it as a neutral, just as I would black, and began to put my expertise into action.

1. My first choice was to give it an equestrian feel, Ala Ralph Lauren. A silk equestrian scarf tied around the neck, gold bangles, gold with rhinestone stud earrings, Ralph Lauren riding boots and to give the look a little sex appeal...a great pair of champagne colored fishnet hosiery. I love mixing sexy with outdoors.


2. The next look is more demure: Fishnet hosiery, pearl and black onyx necklace, a lovely chain belt with a decorative rhinestone flower; and a pair of black patent peep-toe slingbacks.


3. To give my LRD a little retro feel, I decided to leave its funnel neckline alone. Instead, I chose to decorate the dress with a silk champagne colored flower pin, a chunky red bobble bracelet; and my leopard sandals that wrap around my ankle. Meow.

When building my wardrobe, my general rule of thumb is to buy an item only when it will coordinate with three things in my existing wardrobe. I believe my LRD made the count!

The next time you're in the mood for a little color, don't be afraid of RED...it's hot, sexy and quite adventurous.

Happy Shopping!

Fresh Food For The Skin?!!

I'm convinced that there is definitely something special to the organic way of living. I've been on a quest for the best, and most luxurious of skincare products that is both gentle and therapeutic to the skin.

I discovered a company called The Body Deli (catchy name)! The name alone caused me to do further research. So, I jumped into my car and headed to the stores location in Palm Desert, California. Nestled in a strip mall on Hwy 111, as I entered the store, I was greeted by a well-informed employee that made my shopping experience both enjoyable and pleasant.

A delicious assortment of lotions, souffles and oils are aligned on the front counter so that customers can experience the scents and test the products before making a purchase. I sampled every scent that they offered: Tahitian Vanilla, Almond Joy, Coconut Cream, Desert Sage, Mandarin Infusion and Moroccan Mint; just to name of few. Each scent was mouth-watering. With the temperatures dropping and the air becoming dry, I was personally in search for a very emollient skin cream to keep my skin hydrated. I decided on the Tahitian Vanilla in the Phyto-Therapy Lotion. YUMMY!

One thing that I consider very important, when selecting skincare, is that the products use organic ingredients...I have very sensitive skin and I need to pamper it with tender loving care. The Body Deli's products are so fresh that they come with an expiration date; and some of them must be kept in the refrigerator. Some of the ingredients they boast are: avocado, Clary sage, green papaya, blueberries, pomegranate, tangerine, kale juice and kiwi. The products are absolutely chemical and synthetic free!

One more thing, the scent staying power is phenomenal! I nourished my skin with my new lotion in the morning and at 6:00pm I still had the scent of Tahitian Vanilla.

I highly recommend a visit to the Body Deli in Palm Desert. If you can't make the trip, visit them online at www.TheBodyDeli.com. You'll enjoy the experience of having deliciously scented skin that is treated like a delicacy.

Let the Desert Clean Your Face!

I was always under the impression that acne was strictly for the teens. Not the case. Every month my hormones rage out of control and leave behind a cluster of unwanted pimples on my face. Thank heavens for my monthly outing with my girlfriends. During our conversation, I told them that I had been under a great deal of pressure and had begun to break-out. Immediately my friends went into action by dousing me with a lot of questions..."What have you been eating?" "Have you been exercising?" "What are you using on your face?"...etc, etc. I didn't want to tell them that three days ago, I had just wolfed consumed an entire brownie the size of a brick; and then proceeded to wash it down with a large Coke...all this to drown my sorrows over some unwanted circumstances. Nor did I want to tell them that I'd been avoiding our monthly Bootcamp sessions because I hadn't been sleeping well and decided to use Saturdays as time to catch-up on sleep. You get the picture...STRESS had begun to make its mark...and on my face!!!

On our way home from our outing, one of my girlfriends and I decided to make a pit-stop at Trader Joes. While we wandered the aisles, she pointed out a product she once used on her now flawless complexion. It was National Tea Tree Oil Facial Cleansing Pads by Desert Essence. The Pads have been formulated with a combo of pure essential oils and herbal extracts. Each moist pad contains Tea Tree Oil (which is an inherent antiseptic plant extract), Lavender, Chamomile and Calendula. "It worked wonders," she said. "When you get home, take a nice relaxing shower; wash your face really good and then use the Pads. Then drink some green tea; and then meditate on the Word." What great advice!

It has now been 7 days since I began my quest for clearer skin and a less stressful life. My skin looks and feels more radiant...I'm ready to face the world!

If you're suffering from breakouts, try the pads. Available at www.desertessence.com.

100% Pure...You'll Smell Good Enough to Eat

After a long and tedious weekend, I wasn't quite ready to return to the work week. As I lay in my bed, I pondered the list of things that I needed to complete. As I reviewed my 'To Do' list in my mind, it was as if my bed began to drape it's loving arms around me. I looked toward my clock and watched as the time inched its way into the area that would cause me to become frantically late.

Then I remembered some very important advice that was bestowed upon me when I began my life as a career woman...Always have something to look forward too. It'll make your life seem less mundane and more exciting. "Something to look forward too. Hmmm. What do I have coming up this week?" Then I remembered...I had a envelope full of samples from 100% Pure!

Yes, I'm a sucker for delicious smelling body products; so, the thought of starting my day with a hot shower and the sweet aroma of a new shower gel sent my senses into another world. I emptied out my package; began to sift through the selection and contemplated what I wanted to smell like for the day. Did I desire Virgin Coconut, Blueberry, Pear, Vanilla Bean, Juicy Pineapple or Dark Chocolate (can you imagine having the scent of the very thing that people crave)? These are only a drop in the bucket of the many flavors that 100% Pure offers.

I made my decision, and Juicy Pineapple won! It was very difficult to climb out of my scented, steamy sanctuary, but I managed to do so. What awaited was the Juicy Pineapple Body Cream that felt equally delicious. When I emerged, I over-heard my family conversing about what smelled so good. One of my sons told me that I smelled like Pineapple Cream Ice Cream. My hubby stated that I smelled good enough to eat. What a way to start the day! As I entered into the world, I felt that I could conquer whatever lay ahead. I knew that if things became difficult, I would simply retreat to my package of scented wonders to ease my pain.

100% Pure was an absolutely delicious product that boast its name because it is indeed 100% Pure. The products are scented from real fruits, and pure essential oil absolutes. There are absolutely no synthetic fragrances or anything artificial. You can purchase this product from www.100percentpure.com. That is good news!

Try 100% Pure. You'll smell good enough to eat!

Nordstrom Runway Show at StyleWeekOC

Spending the evening under the stars, while watching a Nordstrom runway show, isn't such a bad deal for a nights work. Last night (September 13th) I attended the final showing of a series of various fashion shows for StyleWeekOC at the Irvine Spectrum Shopping Center, In Orange Country, California. With the ferris wheel as the backdrop, models displayed a tantalized array of fashions for fall and for the transitional styles of the season. I spent the entire night drooling over which looks I wanted for myself. The fashions were generally for the young, but if you fall into the category of "Young at Heart," then you would have found the styles to be very appealing.

The first looks out were very reminiscent of the sexy-librarian. Give this young woman just the right look and she's all yours. Demure, but very alluring. The garments left much to the imagination...perhaps that is what is so sexy about them...It would lead one to have to search to find out what makes the lady tick. At first look, I had to second guess the high-heeled penny loafers and mary-janes worn with ankle socks. Only the daring, yet stylish would be able to pull this look off.

The Native-American trend with a dash of Boho Chic really caught my eye...I wanted it all!

The fringed boots were, as my sons say, "Sick!" I loved the maxi dresses. The color combinations in the garments were really pretty.

Ok, let me not forget to mention the SHOES! OMG!!! The shoes were amazing. Sky high stilettos, booties and the most interesting details that one could ever fathom. One model almost took a fall. The audience applauded her ability to stay on her feet in the 5 inch booties she sported.

A great deal of Justin Timberlake's brand, William Rast, was sported by the male models. The look was a bit rustic with a touch of hillbilly (I'm not being brash)...but hey, it worked! The good looking models could have worn their jammies and looked hot!

Take a look at the fashion photos that my photographer, Fred Harrison, snapped for me. Enjoy the show:

Top Seven Picks in Fashion Accessories for Fall 2008

Oh the love of fashion accessories! Here are my top 7 picks for accessories for Fall 2008:

Fur Details: Michael Kors made the fur neck cozy and scarf look ultra retro in his runway collections. Whether faux or real, fur will jazz up any ensemble.

Art Inspired Shoes: Sure, hold on to your classic black slingbacks; but make room for the wonderful array of colorful and funky styles that are hitting the stores. Look for shoes with quirky details and interesting straps and buckles.

Leather Opera Gloves: The era of the 1950's and 1960's is upon us and wow am I excited! Leather opera gloves are so chic and will make any outfit look amazingly put-together.

Skinny Belts: Diane von Furstenburg really rocked the fall runway with the skinny belt. Rather than simply holding up trousers, the belts were used for cinching in cardigan sweaters and coats.

The Statement Necklace: Keep your strands of pearls for some occasions, but if you really want to add pizzazz to your wardrobe, invest in a edgy statement necklace...one that will really make your wardrobe pop. For the Vera Wang collection, she showed necklaces that were works of art.

Opaque Hosiery: Ditch the boring legwear for ones with interesting designs and jewel-toned colors. Your legs will look both fun and SEXY!

Clutch Purse: Not just reserved for the evening, clutch purses are fast becoming a wardrobe staple; thanks to Sarah Jessica Parker's character, Carrie Bradshaw, from Sex and the City. Now these compact purses come in a variety of styles, sizes and shapes.

Happy Shopping (wink)!

Mad About Mad Men

There's a very provocative series on the AMC channel called Mad Men. This Golden-Globe winning series for Best T.V. Drama is based in the early 1960's in New York. Its a drama about ruthless competitive men and women that are working in the advertising arena. I'm not much of a television watcher, but this show has captured my attention. First of all, the cast of characters are intriguing; and second, the wardrobe is stunning! I can watch the series simply to admire the clothing.

The early 1960's was a time when women were becoming an even stronger presence in the work force. Even though many of the positions women held were administrative, the women were still very powerful in their own right. Women were pulled together to perfection and had great pride in their appearances. Though this time was somewhat conservative, there was a powerful sexiness that existed...it lay in between the lines.

During this era, women weren't trying to be men; No, they embraced their femininity whole-heartily and realized that true power came from the power of the feminine mystique...a quiet strength or glance that would drive any man mad!

Mad Men is a grown up drama that captures the very essence of life during the 1960's. I leave each episode pondering the true meaning of the shows title. Though the episodes are centered around the escapades of leading character Don Draper; in my opinion, the best part about the show is the women that drive the men mad!

3rd Annual Outstanding Art of Television Costume Design Exhibition

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend an opening gala for the 3rd Annual Outstanding Art of Television Costume Design Exhibition, at the prestigious, Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in downtown Los Angeles. I graduated from FIDM in 1986, so to attend this occasion made me feel like a proud mother.

The exhibit showcased numerous costumes from major designers, such as: The legendary, Mr. Bob Mackie (Cher), Nolan Miller (Dynasty), Roland Sanchez (Lost) and Ret Turner (Tim Conway Show) and many others. As you walk into the exhibit, you are greeted by an amazing dress that Mr. Mackie designed for Angelica Houston to wear on the Red Carpet.

Guest, curator, Mary Rose, President of the Costume Designers Guild, spoke about the costumes on display for the event, which included both new and classic television, such as: Lost, Project Runway, Scrubs, Mad Men, the Tudors, Pushing Daisies, Moonlighting and a host of other shows.

After viewing the exhibit, guest were treated to a relaxing evening on the FIDM courtyard with jazz, food and wine. It was nice to spend an evening enjoying the art of fashion!

The exhibit will be open for viewing until September 28, 2008. For further information, please contact FIDM at (213)624-1200.

You're Such a Tarte!

Talk about killing two birds with one stone...Tarte cosmetics has come out with an extraordinary product that I'm sure you will love: Enbrightenment Brite Smile Whitener & Tarte Lipgloss. Its a double ended, tooth-whitening wand and lip gloss product.

One side contains Tarte's t5 super fruit-infused lipgloss and the other contains BriteSmile's proprietary teeth-whitening formula. How convenient is that?!!! Not only will you have lush, fruity flavored lips, but you'll also be able to sport a healthy smile.

You can purchase this product online at Sephora.

A Miracle for the Busty!

Leave it to Maidenform to unveil a breakthrough Backless Bra for those of us that are....um...busty. This amazing bra was designed by Elaine Cato, who appeared on the ABC show, American Inventor. Though she didn't win the $1 million grand prize; she managed to take home an even greater reward...a contract to manufacture her bra for Maidenform.

The 6-in-1 convertible bra was designed to be worn with strapless, backless, halter, or anything else that requires the avoidance of unsightly bra straps. What's even greater, is that the bra ranges in sizes from 34B through 38DD. Cato said that it was designed with the full-figured woman in mind.

YEEHAW...there is a God!

Brazil When It's Hot!

I remember a conversation my friends and I had over dinner. One of us (whom shall remain nameless) stated that she needed to feel sexy again because of personal difficulties she was experiencing. In most instances, when I woman needs a personal makeover, the first thing to change is the hair. Well, guess what, this was no different. She went on to say, "I had it all removed." "What?" We inquired. "My hair down there...I had a brazilian!" She went on to say that it makes her feel so sexy. "It's my own little secret."

Everyone looked at each other in amazement. Wondering if the procedure hurt was the biggest question that needed answering. So as not to offend anyone, the process was described with great sensitivity. We all looked at one another and expressed our own opinion on the matter-at-hand. Most stating that they wouldn't dare put themselves through such pain and embarrassment.

Needless to say, many months later, another one of the girls decided to take the plunge and visit good 'ol Brazil. Would you say...Ouch or Oooooh!

Ebay Pays Big for Selling Counterfeit Goods

A French court ordered eBay to pay the luxury goods giant, Louis Vuitton and other high-end designers, around $63.2 million for selling counterfeit items on its online auction site, and for selling genuine products outside their desired retail channel. Ebay was ordered to stop selling the items immediately or face a fine of $79,000 a day...OUCH!

Usually I'm for the under-dog, but in this case, I'm not quite sure who the under-dog is. Ohhh yes...I'm the under-dog...Me and all the poor victims, whom unknowingly, purchased counterfeit goods. I too, fell victim to this fraud and I was furious. I was told that a pair of Kate Spade shoes were authentic; when they, in fact, were not! I felt so violated.

I still enjoy shopping on eBay, however, I have learned to be a lot more discerning when choosing designer goods.

"Just Put Your Lips Together and..."

There's a scene in one of my all-time favorite classic movies, "To Have and Have Not" when Lauren Bacall, whom is acting seductive and coy, says to Humphrey Bogart after they kiss..."It's better when you help...You know how to whistle, don't you, Steve? You just put your lips together and blow."

Kissing is such a powerful force of nature. Whether it's a peck before heading off to work; a loving kiss to brush the tears away from a crying child; or a passionate kiss that takes your breath away. Whatever the reason behind the kiss, you want to make sure that your lips are in tip-top shape by being smooth and desirable; so, follow these simple steps:

• Brush your teeth, gums and tongue with a fresh minty toothpaste and then gargle with your favorite mouth wash.
• Cover your lips with a thin layer of vaseline.
• Moisten a soft bristled toothbrush and begin to gently brush your lips. This will remove the dry skin.
• Pat your lips dry and then use CO Bigelow lipshine in peppermint or spearmint. The minty taste will not only stimulate your lips, but your guys as well.
• Pop in a stick of Wrigley's Orbit gum in Sweet Mint. Aaaah!
• Now your lips and mouth are ready..."Just put your lips together and..."

ENJOY!

The Friendships of Women

I have been blessed with a great group of girlfriends. As I watch Sex and the City, I noticed that my friends are very similar to the characters portrayed on the show. E is like Miranda...very serious and takes the matter-of-fact approach to life. Then there is L whom is very much like Charlotte...the lover of happy endings. Next there is C who is somewhat like Samantha...vivacious and very unpretentious. That leaves myself as Carrie...the writer and the one that would probably sacrifice a meal or two for a great pair of shoes! Sad to say, but true.

I love my friends. We are all so very different, but yet, we complement one another in such a marvelous way. I often wonder what people think when they see us gathered in one of our favorite eateries. Do they think, "What an eclectic mix of women." Sometimes our laughter is so intense that the entire restaurant will turn in our direction. Though we share laughter, often there are times when our meetings require the understanding and compassion that only the friendships of women can provide.

I take great comfort in time spent with my friends. Together we share laughter, love, life and loyalty!

The Little White Dress

There's something demurely seductive and powerful about the Little White Dress.
If you dare to wear one, you'll feel instantly transformed into a woman that is in touch with her femininity and yet, is bold and confident.

No longer reserved for weddings and/or religious ceremonies, the LWD has become a staple in the wardrobe of many women. However, some choose to avoid wearing white all together in fear of the dreaded spill. Not I. Wearing white, especially in the form of a dress, makes me feel brave, sexy, fresh and breezy.

Whenever I think of the quintessential white dress, I think of the beautiful halter Marilyn Monroe wore in the 7 Year Itch. Remember how she stood over the air vent as her dress swirled into the air. Even with the noticeable eyes of onlookers, Marilyn continued to pose over that infamous vent. Would you say she felt feminine, sexy, bold and confident? I would.