Fashion Blog

Aren’t you a bit tired of your straight hair style? If you have bone straight hair and want a curly hair style for a day, it can be done quickly and easily. Here are some options for getting curly hair for a day:

Are you looking for loose waves?

Here’s a quick and easy technique you can use to get a mass of curls.. Shampoo and condition your hair normally. Towel dry. Create a bun at the nape of your neck by twisting your hair as you shape it into the bun. Pin your newly formed bun into place. Allow your hair to air dry naturally. When hair is dry, take the pins out of your hair and should have long, loose, sexy waves.

Do you want a shaggy, wavy effect?

This one is easy to do. Shampoo and condition your hair. Towel dry. Apply a mousse or other styling product lightly to your damp hair to give it some texture. While your hair is still damp, bend your head over so you’re drying your hair upside down. Dry your hair with the blow dryer while using your hands to scrunch it. Once your hair is dry, throw your head back and immediately spray with hair spray.

Do you want more precise curls?

In this case you’re probably going to need to use hot rollers. After applying the hot rollers to your entire head and allowing them to set, lightly brush the resulting curls and spray with hair spray to hold. You can also use standard hair rollers on damp hair or fashion your hair into pin curls using bobby pins and sit under a hair dryer until the hair is dry. Use hair spray to hold your new curls.

Do you want permanent curls?

Although they can be damaging hair, a perm is your answer if you want to sport a curly hair style on a regular basis. If you consider how much heat manipulation you need to maintain your curls every day, a perm might be less damaging in the long run. Be sure to condition your hair well pre and post perm and get your perm done by a professional.

Do you want really edgy waves?

If you want waves that really stand out, give the crimping iron a try. This look was all the rage at the fashion shows in Paris. Most of the models sported some form of crimped hair, although not necessarily over their entire head. Always use a crimping iron on dry hair and be sure to use a good conditioner if you plan on doing this on a regular basis as the heat can be very drying. You may want to consider using a leave in condition to protect your hair. This little tool can be a great volumizer.

Now you can sport a curly hair style anytime you want even if you were born with stick straight hair!

Source:Bosshairstyle 

Dull hair, change of season, graduation, Mother’s Day, prom – whatever the reason, the opportunity to try a new ‘do or get a basic trim is hard to resist. However, the process of getting the perfect haircut can present two challenges: scheduling the appointment and getting exactly what you want.

Setting up an appointment with a hairstylist can seem like an impossible mission. Comparing schedules with the stylist can become a one-way conversation that leaves you frustrated. Instead, try a “walk-in” salon where timing is often less of an obstacle – an invaluable benefit for busy parents. The next most common challenge is communicating with the stylist. The main reason for a less than perfect haircut is miscommunication between the client and the stylist.

“Customers and stylists should avoid using technical terms and specific measurements to describe a haircut because they can vary among cosmetology communities and can lead to misunderstanding between the customer and stylist,” says Yvonne Lopez, a training and service representative for Great Clips, one of the nation’s largest franchisers in the $50 billion hair care industry.

To get the haircut you want every time, other Great Clips stylists suggest the following 10 tips for effectively communicating with the stylist:

1. Collect pictures of the style you like and bring them with you to the salon to help explain your ideas.

2. Ask the stylist about the latest styles and what would work with your hair and look best.

3. “Show not tell” how you want your hair to be when the haircut is complete. Use your hands to show the stylist how much you want taken off instead of asking for an inch or two off the ends. This will help ensure that your hair will be cut only to the desired length.

4. Tell the stylist how much time you usually spend on your hair. If you would like to spend less time, be sure to let him or her know. This information will help determine which style best suits your daily routine.

5. Let the stylist know about any hair habits, such as tucking your hair behind the ears and pulling your hair back for work or sports. Taking your habits into consideration will help determine an appropriate hairstyle.

6. Be realistic. While a certain style may look great in a magazine, it may be unsuitable for your hair texture or facial structure. The stylist can usually help you determine if a style is appropriate for you.

7. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If the stylist uses a term you don’t understand, ask the stylist what it means.

8. Before the stylist finishes your hair, ask for a hand mirror to check the back of your hair and to make sure you’re satisfied with the cut.

9. As the stylist is finishing your hair, seek advice on how to recreate and maintain the look. Also ask the stylist to record your haircut information, such as the clipper guard number and hair products used on your hair so that you have the correct information for your next visit.

10. Update your products. Ask the stylist to recommend hair products that will help you get the desired finish.

For more information or to find a Great Clips salon near you visit GreatClips.com.

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A CHANCE meeting between oceanaut Celine Cousteau and Lynne Florio, the president of skincare and cosmetic brand La Prairie, eventually led to a business partnership.

Florio, concerned about the condition of our planet and eager that her young children grow up to respect nature, sent them to Cousteau’s environment camp for kids.

Later, Florio approached Cousteau to be associated with La Prairie’s new Advanced Marine Biology Cream, which is largely based on unique substances from marine plants. However, far from plundering resources from the ocean, La Prairie scientists cultivate these marine plants on land through mariponics.

The tie-up with La Prairie is a first for Cousteau who confesses to not knowing much about beauty or skincare regimen.

“It is nice to have a quality product to put on your face. I use this every day now. I don’t like heavy cream, and this one is really good,” said Celine during an interview in Singapore recently.

Celine Cousteau was so impressed with La Prairie’s sustainable practices and commitment to safeguarding the environment that she agreed to be associated with La Prairie’s new Advanced Marine Biology Cream.

“I have developed a beauty regime now (since hooking up with La Prairie). Before, I did not even know there was a separate cream for the face and for the eye area!” she said. The chance to use a luxury skin care product was, however, not the reason she agreed to be associated with the brand. Discovering La Prairie’s sustainable practices and commitment to safeguarding the environment was.

“I’ve spent virtually my whole life exploring our oceans, so I understand first-hand how many invaluable resources the ocean holds, how precious our marine ecology is, and what benefits it brings to humankind. I also know from experience that constant exposure to sun and saltwater can damage the skin incredibly quickly,” she said.

“I was fascinated when I learned that La Prairie’s Advanced Marine Biology Cream harnesses the powerful, natural anti-ageing properties of ocean botanicals to reverse the effects of environmental stresses without compromising our fragile marine ecosystem.

“I decided to dig a little deeper into the science behind the cream, and found that no other product in the world utilises the marine-biotechnology active substance found in Advanced Marine Biology Cream. This substance is made up of sea plants, which the company actually harvests on land, under scientifically controlled conditions – to be sustainable and not to damage their natural environment.

“La Prairie has been doing this even before they approached me, so I knew that they were serious about it,” said Cousteau.

Being tied to a brand like La Prairie has also enabled Cousteau to reach out to a wider audience about her cause.

“This collaboration has given me many more opportunities to speak to the press about our programmes. And the people in fashion and beauty are ready to hear about the environment now.

“It (the tie-up) has given me the chance to influence a whole new realm, so I thought, ‘Why not. The product is going to exist anyway‘,” she said.

To underscore its commitment to preserving the ocean’s environment, La Prairie is supporting the work of the Ocean Futures Society (a non-profit organisation founded by Cousteau’s father, Jean-Michel) by making a donation for every jar of Advanced Marine Biology Cream sold. La Prairie will also donate to the organisation a percentage of the proceeds from a new line of products currently being developed.

Dazzle Bridal Tiara – Why not give yourself that extra wow factor with this large daisy bridal tiara. Dazzle tiara has been individually crafted on a hand made base for comfort and also using swarovski crystals and swarovski pearls for that elegant and stunning look  Source:

As Seen In Scottish Wedding Directory Autumn/Winter 2007

Beautifully hand crafted tiara made with Swarovski crystals.

Height: 4.5cm

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- This is a stunning tiara which sits between 3-4cm high(brides choice of height). This style is beautiful for those brides who are wearing their hair up, and are looking for that elegant statement piece. However, this looks just as elegant when the bride’s hair is worn down.

The Lily is a new design from Coach that actually has my attention. It is a cute shape, style, and great daily wear. There is a black and camel leather version of the Coach Lily, but if you are a special person, you have the opportunity to get your hands on an ostrich version. The Coach Ostrich Lily was the bag of choice for Rebecca Romijn in the stunning red Bordeaux. Romijn, along which other celebrities such as Eva Longoria, are opting for some of the exotics bags from Coach. Coach bags have always been popular and are many women’s first bag into the designer handbag world. But as the market expands, Coach does too, and while some are not keen on spending thousands on an exotic bag from Coach, some are.    Source:

Chloe bags have created a large following because of their casual style and sturdy leathers. After the Chloe Paddington created a huge buzz; amassing long wait lists, high eBay prices, and exorbitant knock-offs, Chloe realized they hand landed in the handbag world. Chloe continues to produce new bags each season that wow their followers, though none other have become as large of hits as the Paddington. The Chloe Bay Bag has garnered attention as being a modern classic, attracting celebrity exposure such as Britney Spears. Net-A-Porter is now carrying both a bronze metallic and rich purple version of the larger Bay tote. The leather is heavy, yet the style is simple and classic    Source:

It seems Neiman Marcus decided to go big for spring, whereby bringing in every new ‘it’ bag that is now impossible to find or get on a list for. First they stocked the Prada Fairy Bag which was snatched up so quick, that it was no longer available after two days of being on the website. And now, the Chloe Transitions Color Block Bag has made a bold statement at Neiman Marcus, also reaching its pre-order quota. This Chloe Bag features a multicolor block with all around pleating and a brown lambskin backdrop. Right when I saw this bag on Neiman Marcus I found it alluring. Different, funky, but a great statement bag. My handbag collection is made up of many ‘safe’ bags, but I love an attention-grabber. This is precisely what this bag does. There is a removable shoulder strap and gold tone hardware. The framed top sports a turn-lock gold-tone closure. Measurements are large; 13 2/5″H x 15″W x 3 1/10″D. Highly expensive, but completely unique, this bag seems to have made a name for itself already. I would love to see it person, try it on, and decide if it is show-stopping enough to take on the huge price tag    Source:

Burberry Check Net Drawstring Bag

We arrived in New York yesterday and were greeted with a cold, wet New York day. Really, I did not bring an umbrella as I assumed The Big Apple would be thrilled we are here and would cease all stormy weather. Today again, more rain. After a great day yesterday (lots of pictures and an interview to follow), today is another day we are looking forward to. I made Vlad go to Duane Reade to grab us some umbrellas, just cheap black ones that keep the rain off. When I look outside our window I see mostly black specs of umbrellas briskly walking the streets of New York, intermittent with some Burberry Check pattern ones. We have not covered Burberry handbags in a while, so I find it fitting to cover one today. I spotted the Burberry Check Net Drawstring Bag which redesigns the classic check into a net drawstring bag. This is a great resort bag, especially with the drawstring top giving it such a beach vibe. The nova net is trimmed with leather and the top handles are also leather (which drop 11.5″ at their longest). One thing I am not keen on is the lack of pockets, but the dimensions are still great for a beach tote,

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When most people think of Bottega Veneta and the signature bag, they think of the Veneta. And when those people are thinking about the signature style, they think of the intrecciato woven leather. These are both aspects of Bottega Veneta that define the brand. Bottega Veneta bags are not cheap either. In fact, you can not even find an ‘affordable’ bag in their store, and when you think you have, you are actually just fooling yourself into believing you have. The truth is, you pay for what you get. You are getting a luxury design house and a luxurious leather bag. The leather used on their bags is absolutely divine. The detail is on point. Even many employees of Hermes consider Bottega one of the only other brands in their league. If you have seen and touched a Hermes bag and a Bottega Veneta bag in person, you will know why. These are reasons that I have fallen for the brand. I adore their styles, the simplicity, the elegance, the timelessness. And for the perfect piece that will never go out of style, look into the Bottega Veneta Veneta Bags. There are various sizes of this style, but the shape is the same. The woven leather bag features a strap across the top and a zip fastening closure. The inside is lined in lush suede and there is a zip pocket. The beauty of these bags and the lush leather is mouth watering.   Source:

told you earlier I am slow moving today and the slothness continues. It is not like the weather is helping; while we are not snowed in it is dreary and rain is imminent. Really the only thing on my mind is eating another brownie (ok row of brownies) and going back to bed. But as I sat here looking out the window on this dull day, there was a spark of life. One single butterfly flew by my window and landed on the leaves of the bush in front of my window. It was that little sign, that little ‘the world is beautiful’, that is keeping me awake and feeling refreshed. There is something so whimsical about butterflies that shows the miracles of life. And from a company as established and elegant as Bottega Veneta, it was a brilliant idea to tap into the butterfly print with the Bottega Veneta Butterfly Bag. Designed with putty intrecciato leather, there are butterfly print design in patches on the front. The drawstring braided handle is reminiscent of spring and summer as it is threaded through brass eyelets. I am almost as obsessed with what is inside as what is outside of the bag; the blue suede lining. I was reminded of the Neiman Marcus Anniversary Judith Leiber clutch when I saw this bag, but this is better. Bottega Veneta never ceases to amaze me. $.  Source:

A hot spring trend is floral prints. Being able to implement the beauty and flourishing growth of spring in our wardrobes and accessories brightens our look and our day. Balenciaga, who is known for their slouchy handbags made with naturally distressed goat leather, has ventured into the floral realm for one of their Spring 2008 handbags. The Balenciaga Giant Seau Bag features the Fleur Fluo print which gives the handbag a unique and chic appeal. The large and bright floral pattern is eye catching and is set off with white leather, a perfect combination. I love the shape of this bag, like a bucket bag. This can slouch low and stay close to your body. Pair this with a simple sun dress, jeans, anything white, and you will look perfect for spring.

Inquire through Balenciaga or Neiman Marcus for this bag.
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There are so many good arguments against carrying a white handbag. Regardless of what you may hear about winter white being the hippest color for the cold months, I just can’t get over the images of spring that a white bag brings, and thus would probably not wear a white bag for 6 months in a year. I am a messy person, and my bags get beat up sometimes. Think of your palest friend. I’ll bet she blushes and bruises brighter than anyone else you know. While that’s all well and cute, you don’t carry your pale friend on your arm. She is not a showcase of your personal style. I don’t want my bag to tell people that I’m a clumsy little girl who once in a while spills ketchup or drops her bag in the dirt (not that I do, but if I did, I’d want it to be on a darker bag). Nonetheless, every now and then, I see a very good argument for carrying a brilliant white bag. This Balenciaga Giant Hobo is one such argument. I realize that the appeal isn’t all in the color – the slouchy shape, the new gold hardware which looks terrible sometimes but really adds to this bag, the fun, slouchy shape, the sweet shortness of the top handle, the yummy, adorable, slouchy little shape – but I think this white is stunning on the hobo. I don’t think I would consider this bag for another month or two, but oof, I’ve been hit. The white just accentuates the squishy pliant looks of the leather. I want to put on a breezy red dress and take this bag on my shoulder and head to an outdoor cafe. Oh spring, hurry up already. Picture from balenciaga.com. Contact a Balenciaga boutique or your local Barneys for more info.

By nerdphanie, The Shopping Nerd              Source:

Opulence – Connie Bridal tiara- This bridal tiara has been beautifully hand crafted from the finest of products. Each tiara is on a Silver Plate base, and been crafted with Swarovski Crystals and freshwater Pearls all twisted onto sterling silver wire, giving you a stunning bridal tiara.

This can either be mounted on to gold or silver.

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Aylee Bridal tiara – this is a stunning tiara made with various sized swarovski pearls and crystals on a handmade base. This comes in any colours you wish from the crystals and pearl colour chart.    Source:

WHERE: Neiman Marcus, Atlanta

WHEN: April 10th, 2008 from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm

Nancy Gonzalez bags have become highly coveted accessories, focusing on exotic materials and popping color palettes. Nancy’s bags have graced the arms of handbag lovers worldwide who turn to her for a beautifully made bag, with a luxurious material, that sets an outfit apart from the rest. Her focus on color comes from her Colombian roots, as not only the culture affects her designs but so does the climate. “The 365 days a year of brilliant blue sky, the incredible plumage of birds, a green like nothing I have seen anywhere else – that is the beauty of Colombia,” says Gonzalez. The collection is designed and produced in Colombia and is available at retailers including Harrod’s of London, Aizel of Moscow, Isetan of Japan, Joyce of Hong Kong and Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue.

If you are in the Atlanta area, be sure not to miss an opportunity like this. This designer has an amazing outreach and story to tell. We will be bringing you more news and images of Nancy Gonzalez bags this week. Stay tuned   Source:

It is not just Coach that moved its factory to China, many designer houses have also moved. But those that remain with their “Made in Italy” tags are claiming a little more than they are worth at times. The fact is, many designers have the majority of their bag made in China and then some finishing touches are completed in Italy etc. And this renders a Made in Italy stamp? I think not. Why am I talking about this? It is all about quality of what we are buying, and many times our luxury items are not high quality. This actually is not a start for me to go against Coach purses, but to say that they are not the only ones that have moved their factories to keep up with the demand and costs. Quality matters to me, and at times it is lacking. To be honest, I have not seen a Coach Alligator Bag in person, so I will need your insight on this. Coach has continued to branch out to bring exotic materials to its clients. The Coach Legacy Alligator Pocket Flap is designed with imported alligator and leather trim on the iconic Coach Pocket Flap bag. One thing that I find great about this bag is its functionality; with an inside zip pocket, cell phone pocket, ring to clip keys, and two outside front pockets. I have a major issue with the exotic outside that is then lined in fabric on the inside. I would definitely expect a more luxurious interior for the price, like suede lining. Either way, Coach exotic purses already has fans in Rebecca Romijn, Mandy Moore, and Eva Longoria. This bag costs $7000 through Coach.

Let’s have a debate: Would you ever buy a Coach exotic? Do you look down upon brands that move their companies overseas, like to China?    Source:

Square cut Crystal Stud Earrings – These earrings have been hand crafted with Swarovski Diamante Square Stones and Sterling Silver mounts. These earrings come in a combination of colours – Crystal, Smoked Topaz, Light Colorado Topaz, jet

Livorno Bridal / Evening Necklace – Crystal & Pearl Necklace Handcrafted using cream Faux glass Pearls & Swarovski Ab Crystals & Sterling Silver clasp. This necklace sits on the collarbone, to give a gorgeous elegant look. Can be customised to colour of your choice.