Sunday, December 25, 2011

Merry Christmas! My Gift - Acer Tablet....now what about a cover? accessories? ..for a Fashionista well..


Well, after years and months of budget saving ( DH) , and months of  research by (DH) and years and months of listening to hearing me raging against the IPAD users( I am anti Apple, yes it's out now ). After years of listening to my condemnation of the conspicuous consumption of Americans ( a 10 year old with an IPAD, unreal!), this forty something, got an Acer  (Android) tablet http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Computers-Promotions/Acer+Iconia+A500+Tablet+Highlights/pcmcat239100050005.c?id=pcmcat239100050005&ref=30&loc=KW-3738&s_kwcid=TC|8064|%2Bacer%20%2Btablet||S|b|15568168039 for Christmas from DH and DD.
 DH is in the technology world and spent a lot of time doing research and listening to my needs before choosing the Acer. I know that I am using one of the best tablets on the market.
Thank you DH!

I also received a camera which we will be happy to use again. After a year or two of using our phones we finally realized that everyone taking pictures with cameras had an advantage over us, so sorry the pictures just looked a whole lot better! My blog pictures will be better in 2012!

I have to admit that using this tablet, will change my life...less books to recycle.... it was becoming a serious problem and less hard cover books for my library. I can finally read the NY times and WSJ without thinking that I am about to slap the person next to me in the face and arm with my papers.  I can Skype with our friends in Nigeria and my friends and family all over the world. I am looking forward to reading all my magazines and logging notes for my blog on my notepad. It is very convenient for someone who spends 90 percent of their time as a road warrior.

For current users- Let me know style and brand what you have now and why you like it.



But the big question...what type of cover ? and which part of my fashion persona will emerge with this purchase?  Just like DH it will take me some time to decide and choose my cover because this cover will be an ambassador of sorts, it  which will represent me and my "brand"  to colleagues, friends and family. As you know from reading my blog there are two sides to this fashionista, vintage and modern.  I love minimalist clothing but I also love accessories vintage and modern.  I favor vintage and retro prints for accessories, probably an ode to my mother and a rebellion against the strict minimalist tendencies I try to enforce with  my clothing choices,  so this could be a difficult journey for me.  But it is going to be fun I hope!


Here are some first looks let me know what you think.  Stay Tuned!

Vera Bradley

Vera Bradley- I already have a purse so why not... a little too fussy?


Michael Kors

Kors- Monogrammed case- Slick, Minimalist and Shiny!


Le Sport Sac

Le Sport Sac E Sleeve

Guess Sparkler


Guess Case at Macy's



Casemate at Macy's

Case-Mate 2 with Stand



Coach for IPAD

Coach for IPAD



Love it, love it! for all of my ladies who love labels!

Louis Vuitton for IPAD


Kindle Cover from my favorite folks at Franklin Planner

Kindle Cover by M Edge for Franklin Planner


The team at Moleskin makes wonderful notepads and it IPAD cover is exceptional.

Moleskin

I will keep you posted on my search and final pick, please let me know what you like!

I look forward to hearing from all of you!

Fashionmom!

Friday, December 23, 2011

12 Days of Christmas- Our Favorite Friday Tipples of the Year- XM Royal Rum, St Germain, Cachaca, Aperol....



Merry Christmas! Feliz Navidad! Joyeux Noel! Happy Hannukah! Happy Kwanzaa! Feliz Las Posadas! Best Wishes Year of the Dragon 2012!



As we close in on the "Big Day" and the other big days to come, we wanted to share our favorites tipples for the year and all time. These are the picks we would want you to bring as gifts to our homes.
These picks have all been tested and approved and we are 100% sure you will not be disappointed!


Our visuals may not correspond with our recipes because we scattered different types of tipples througout the story. Enjoy the visual feast!


Here are our picks along with a recipes for 2011.


ST GERMAIN

St-Germain is made from the blossoms of the elderflower tree. It was the first liqueur created in the artisanal manner from freshly handpicked elderflower blossoms.


The elderflower is a delicate flower which quickly loses it fragrance and flavor.
Only for a few days in late spring in the foothills of the Alps are the manufacturers able to harvest the flowers for this exceptional liqueur. The harvest time is 2 to 3 weeks and French farmers (paysans) handpick and deliver the blossoms to local depots. Some use a specially rigged bicycle to take the blossoms to a local depot. Upon arrival the story of how the one of a kind flavor of the elderflower is harvested is a family secret. The resulting liquid is then mixed with grape spirit and cane sugar. The final flavor hints of citrus, peach and pear.
St-Germain is the main ingredient in some of the more delicious cocktails in the world. You can find it at fine liquor stores everywhere.

St-Germain Cocktail



2 parts Brut Champagne or sparkling wine

11/2 parts St-Germain

2 parts sparkling water or club soda

Fill a tall Collins Glass with ice. Add the Champagne first, then St-Germain, then Club Soda. Stir completely and garnish with a lemon twist.


APEROL



Aperol is an Italian aperitif originally produced by the Barbieri company in Padua Italy. It is now produced by the Campari Company. Now stay with me ...it is also the main ingredient in another aperitif popular in northern Italy in the Veneto region " Spritz'. Spritz is a wine based cocktail produced by the Campari group. Spritz is usually mixed with a liqueur such as Aperol or Campari along with white wine, the name of the mix is Aperol Spritz ( It is the unofficial drink of Italy) AperoSpitzCommercial.

Aperol was originally produced in 1919, but it did not become popular until after the second World War. The ingredients? Gentian, Rhubarb, Bitter Orange, Cinchona. It is very similar to Campari but it is slightly sweeter and the alcoholic content is a bit less than that of Campari. It is also lighter in color than Campari. It has a slightly sweet, bitter taste while Campari is more bitter. These drinks are perfect for hot days at the beach if you need something which is not too sweet, too sweet tends to make you more thirsty, the bitter helps to make the drink refreshing. Perfect for summer cocktails!!!



Roman Holiday


11/2 ounces Orange Vodka
1/2 ounce Aperol
1/2 ounce orange juice
1/4 ounce simple syrup
Tangelo Wedge
Strain with ice, pour into a Martini glass and then top with Prosecco!
Top with wedge.


CACHACA


Caipirinha is the national drink of Brazil and the main ingredient is Cachaca. Cachaca is made from fermented sugar cane. Rum is made from Molasses, Cachaca is made from fresh sugar cane juice with is fermented and distilled. There are two varieties of Cachaca aged and unaged, or white and dark. Unaged and white is often used in cocktails while the aged or dark is meant to me drank straight or on the rocks.



 Caipirinha
1/2 lime, quartered

1 teaspoon white sugar
2 1/2 fluid ounces cachaca
1 cup ice cubes
In a large rocks glass squeeze and drop in 2 eighths of lime. Add sugar, crush and mix with a spoon. Pour in the cachaca and plenty of ice. Stir well.


LIMONCELLO

Limoncello is a sweet lemony liqueur from southern Italy. It is not sour, because it is made from lemon peel not the juice of the lemon combined with a range of alcoholic bases. It is usually chilled and served as a after dinner drink, but also appears in cocktails.


Mutu


Named after Florence soccer star Adrian Mutu
3 oz Vernaccia or other crisp white wine
1 oz St Germain Liqueur
1/2 oz Limoncello, homemade or purchased
Soda water to taste
Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Fill a collins glass with ice. Add the Vernaccia, elderflower liqueur and limoncello. Top with soda water and stir. Garnish with mint leaves and serve.





KAHLUA

Kahlua is made from 100 %Arabica coffee beans and sugarcane in the Veracruz section of Mexico. Veracruz is the home of Kahlua. The coffee cherries are handpicked between October and March and processed to extract what is known as the coffee bean. The beans are air dried and the husk is removed. The beans are then aged for six months and prepared for roasting. Meanwhile the sugar cane stalks are crushed and the juice is mixed with molasses, then yeast and water and left to ferment. Once it becomes alcohol the distillation process begins until it gets to proof and then stored in barrels.

After seven years wow! Coffee and Sugarcane meet again, the coffee is roasted and then combined with the sugarcane extract, vanilla and caramel and then left to rest for eight weeks and the filtered and bottled.


FashionMom Fave


1 part Kahlua
2 parts Club Soda
Ice
2 cherries.
In a rocks glass, add ice first, add Kahlua and then Club Soda. Add cherries for one of the most refreshing drinks!



RUM
Demerara Rum Punch


3 Parts Rum
1 part Lime Juice
2 parts Simple Syrup
1 part orange juice
1 part pineapple juice or grated pineapple
2 bottles ginger ale.
2 parts water
Watermelon juice always gives a special kick to a rum punch.
you must, must have a dash of Angostura.

Recommended Rum- XM Royal Rum, aged ten years from Guyana South America or Ten Cane Rum from Trinidad and Tobago. At fine liquor stores everywhere.






RIONDO PROSECCO SPAGO NERO ITALY
The Ginger


2 cups ice
4 oz Absolut Citron vodka
4 oz Grand Marnier
4 oz peach or apricot nectar
1 bottle Prosecco, chilled
I a glass pitcher filled with ice, mix the vodka. Grand Marnier and nectar. Let the mixture chill and allow the flavors to marry for 3 minutes. Strain ice. Add chilled Prosecco. Pour into white wine glasses and serve.







ABSOLUT
Misty Bitch


1 oz Vodka
1 oz Campari
1 lime
splash of pink grapefruit juice
Mix Vodka and Martini in a highball glass.Add fresh lime to taste and top with grapefruit juice.



Wednesday, December 21, 2011

12 Days of Christmas ( for Men )- Maitre Parfumeur Et Gantier - Fleur de Iris









As we get closer to Christmas, I would like to suggest a great last minute gift for your wife, girlfriend or partner if you can get to the nearest stockist or go for fast shipping online.

I first experienced  Maitre Parfumer et Gantier a dozen or more years ago at Aedes de Venustas http://www.aedes.com/ in New York City.  Aedes is one of the finest perfume salons in the world and their customer service is impeccable.  You can test and smell all of their scents without fear of being bothered by OR feeling intimidated by the staff. They are even better via phone.  As I was walking around the store testing and smelling  scents a client came in and asked for Rose Muskissime http://www.aedes.com/Rose-Muskissime_p_643.html by Matire Parfumeur Et Gantier and its famous perfumer Jean LaPorte. I was into rose scents at the time and I overheard her saying that she found that particular scent to be unique. I decided to smell the scents from the entire line. Needless to say I did not leave with Rose Muskissime but with http://www.aedes.com/Fleur-dIris_p_637.html Fleur De Iris, which I still have to today because I refuse to spray more than a drop every month, the scent is wonderful and it cost a small fortune for me at the time.

Fleur de Iris is a blend of rose ( top note) and green leaves. The middle notes are Iris, vanilla, Jasmin and violets. The base notes are amber, vetiver and musk.  I love all of most of the top, base and middle notes and together they create a unique slightly powdery but fresh scent. It is not easy to describe this scent but I love it. 

Maitre Parfumeur Et Gantier Salon was founded in 1989 by Jean LaPorte ( now perfumer for L' Artisan another favorite) a french perfumer http://www.maitre-parfumeur-et-gantier.com/eng/rub2.swf.   The line was based on traditional recipes of the 17th century. He used the rarest raw materials to create fragrances which are the the epitome of class and are very distinctive. You will be the only person in any room with any of these creations at any time, I  can guarantee it. It was then taken over  Jean Paul Millet Lange in 1997 http://www.maitre-parfumeur-et-gantier.com/eng/main.html and he continues the fine tradition set by La Porte.

You can find Maitre online at

http://www.amazon.com/PARFUMEUR-GANTIER-Maitre-Parfumeur-Gantier/dp/B0009MMKIO

http://beautyhabit.com/mpg.html


and www.aedes.com


Stores- Aedes De Venustas New York City


Now if someone would like to buy a bottle of Bahiana for me for Christmas.....http://www.aedes.com/Bahiana_p_629.html

 Oh la, la ! Merry Christmas!!










12 Days of Christmas- The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust- Adopt a baby Rhino or Elephant for $50.00 in someone's name. Do this for your children.







Forget the long lines, long wish lists, time for change this Christmas. This is a perfect gift.

This is something that will give you immense pride, satisfaction knowing that you have made a difference to a orphaned elephant  or rhino in Africa.
As we all know Elephants and Rhinos are in constant danger from poaching, other wildlife( yes lions can pose a real threat), man's intrusion into their habitats, wells, roads and construction.
Baby elephants and rhinos are especially vulnerable. They are left to die after being stuck in wells, when their mothers are killed by poachers. The David Sheldrink Trust is doing what they can to rescue and help these orphans.


Please log on to read about the life changing work of the late David Sheldrick and his wife who now runs the project.
You can give a gift/adoption in someone's name for just $50 per year. There is so much to read and so much you can do to help.

http://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/

Our world is precious and these animals though large in size are extremely delicate and need the help of everyone in the world.   Even after being rescued,some of them are so traumatized by the loss of their parents and their experiences they do not make it past 2 years old.







Please do what you can from your corner of the world. Your children must understand and appreciate what nature has given us and they can learn that from you.

Do what you can! Educate your children! Save a life!

Thank you Huffington Post for this information.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

12 Days of Christmas - Classic Cotton Pajamas from Vermont Country Store





We have many PJ options available today from different brands but the prices of classic pajamas have climbed up the unprecedented heights in recent years.

The Classic Cotton Broadcloth Pajamas from Vermont Coutry Store are just that, classic, but in the sexy classic pjs type of way.  I am a classic PJ type of girl and if you are too, you will appreciate full notched collar and elegantly shaped pants.
They are available in the classic colors blue and pink and watch out for the candy striped classic which is sometimes available. You can hang out in these all day,  the prices are excellent and they last forever.

Get your ZZZZ in sleep in comfort wearing a classic style.

Enjoy!

Saturday, December 3, 2011

12 Days of Christmas List- Fran's Chocolates, Laduree, Lake Champlain chocolates and See's Candies




One of our 12 wishes must include something to satisfy our sweet tooth and Fran"s Chocolates Home of the Salted Caramel  must be number one on our list. The bestselling , award winning Gray Salt Caramel is the best salted caramel we have ever sampled. There have been lots of imitators but nothing beats the chewy, salt combination of a Fran's Gray Salt Caramel. Trust us, this is the best on the market, bar none.

Laduree opened a store this year in New York, its first ever in the US. The Try the Rose Petal and Pistachio store is beautiful, as beautiful as the melt in your mouth Macarons. Go during the day but only during off hours, forget breakfast and lunch the line is out the door.

See's Famous Old Time Candies have been around since 1921    I buy them just for the Vanilla pops!  The company is based in California with stores all over San Francisco and Los Angeles. They are available at Macy's stores, Lord and Taylor Stores, Dillards and new and newsworthy Kiosks in select malls. You must try the Vanilla pops.


Lake Champlain Chocolates are famous for their Five Star Bars among other delicacies, and it is easy to discover why after a taste, of one of their   The Five Star Bar the fruit and nut is my favorite, and everything else  they offer. The company is based in Burlington Vermont and the chocolates are all made there from high quality Belgian chocolate. YUM!


Happy Holidays!

Thursday, December 1, 2011

12 Days of Christmas List - Lucky Brand Jewelry and Fossil Jewelry





Happy Holidays Everyone!

Have you made your list and checked it twice?

We wanted to add some of our  favorites to your list, we will try to do a twelve day list. Many ideas pop into my head all day long, but I never get the time to write them down.
I hope that you love our picks!!


Drumroll please....


I think that we should get jewelry first and this is on a budget that all husbands will love.

We discovered Lucky Brand Jewelry and Fossil Jewelry more than a year ago, but the collections this year have been impressive and  they remind us of  our all time favorite John Hardy pieces. There are no diamonds but most of the pieces from earrings to rings are made of silver, gold, leather and wood and other metals and tastefully added stones.
There is a lot of openwork designs with a delicate feel but the matte metal gives it a strong edge. These pieces are all about earth and fire.  This season it is all about beetles, serpents which exude fire and strength in their own way.

Lucky Brand Ring

Snake Hoops

Lucky Brand Toggle bracelet

Peacock Ring

The collection prices range from $25.00 for earrings up to 150.00 for larger pieces.


 The Fossil company are famous for their watches but they also have an amazing roster of vintage inspired jewelry available online and at select Macy's stores.

One of my favorites is the Love Story Multi keys necklace   Love Story Multi keys necklace   which has vintage inspired matte silver and gold keys or the Love Story Multi Cluster necklace Multi Cluster necklace

Charms

Fossil also offers hundreds of charm options along with bracelets and chains.

You will be able to find matching bracelets, necklaces, earrings to make your look complete. But the fun part is choosing pieces from different collections which all match back to other items from other collections, everything is related.

Please go online to preview these gorgeous collections and I am sure that you will be sending a very long list to your loved ones and friends this holiday season!
What will I wear with the Love Story necklace?  layers just like the pieces, layer two stretchy tanks with jeans...add a cardigan and boots, polished and cute!




Gap



Gap


add boots Hive and Honey from Piperlime










Simply Brilliant, Fossil and Lucky Brand!

Happy Shopping!

Sunday, November 6, 2011

OPI Winter The Muppets Holiday Collection- Talk about Nail Therapy! Thank you Miss Piggy!

I was in New York last week and a co worker and I compared our green nail polish and enthused over how much we love color on our nails, dark but fun colors.  She was wearing Essie, I had OPI.
She mentioned having to get a manicure and the next day, the first thing I saw was the color....it was a deep red with glitter, gold glitter. It looked fresh, it reminded me of the approaching holidays but it also looked utterly modern.
The color was  OPI "Getting Miss Piggy With It ". She said that her manicurist told her about the line and suggested she try one of the colors.


2011 Holiday "The Muppets" Fresh Frog of Belair C12



Fresh Frog of Bel Air




OPI Miss Muppet Collection- Getting Piggy With It!

2011 Holiday "The Muppets" Gettin' Miss Piggy with It C14

Getting Piggy With It

If you are feeling a bit blue for any reason or you want to get some holiday spirit started early, these colors are pure magic for your mood!

Here are my other favorites.

Divine Swine!

Fresh Frog of Bel Air!


Rainbow Connection!

These colors are  full of sparkle and verve and will be just what you need  to give your spirits a lift on a cold dark day in winter.

OPI can be found at your nearest salon or online at Amazon and other stockists.

Happy Sparkle!!  Thank you Miss Piggy!

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Down Time

We will be taking a few weeks off for some rest and we will be back in time for the holidays!!

Thank you for your support, we love you

The FashionMom team!

Thursday, October 6, 2011

FashionMom: It's Friday! Saude! It's CaChaca Time!

FashionMom: It's Friday! Saude! It's CaChaca Time!: We will become very familiar with this spirit because Brazil will be hosting The Summer Olympics in 2016 and The Fifa World Cup in 2...

It's Friday! Saude! It's CaChaca Time!









We will become very familiar with this spirit because Brazil will be hosting The Summer Olympics in 2016 and The Fifa World Cup in 2014.
Caipirinha is the national drink of Brazil and the main ingredient is Cachaca. Cachaca is made from fermented sugar cane. Rum is made from Molasses, Cachaca is made from fresh sugar cane juice with is fermented and distilled. There are two varieties of Cachaca aged and unaged, or white and dark. Unaged and white is often used in cocktails while the aged or dark is meant to me drank straight or on the rocks.

This update is dedicated to my friend Shelley, this is her favorite spirit. Enjoy SSM!

Tohu Swizzle Cocktail
  • 3 blackberries
  • ¼ ounce falernum (a sweet almond-ginger syrup)
  • ¾ ounce lemongrass simple syrup (see O's recipe, below)
  • ¾ ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 2 ounces cachaça
  • Soda water
  • Raspberries and blueberries, for garnish

In a tall pilsner glass, muddle raspberries and blackberries. Add falernum, lemongrass simple syrup, lime juice, and cachaça. Add crushed ice. Stir, then top with soda water and more crushed ice. Garnish with berries. 


To make lemongrass syrup
Combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, and 3 pieces of fresh lemongrass (about 1 inch each) in a saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat until liquid becomes sticky, about 10 minutes. Let cool; strain and discard lemongrass. Simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for 1 month.

O Peixinho Morto Cocktail
  • 2 ounces cachaça
  • 1/2 ounce ginger syrup (Hawaiian ginger is best)
  • 1/2 ounce orgeat (almond syrup with a little orange blossom water)
  • 3/4 ounce lime juice
  • Orange peel, for garnish
Add all ingredients and shake over ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Squeeze orange peel into drink and drop in.

Carnivale
  •  2 slices fresh jalapeño
  • 1/2 ounce maraschino cherry liqueur
  • 1/2 ounce orange liqueur
  • 2 ounces aged cachaça
  • 3/4 ounce lime juice
  • Maraschino cherry, for garnish
Lightly muddle the slice of jalapeño with the maraschino and orange liqueurs. (The longer you muddle the pepper, the more spicy the cocktail will be.) Add all other ingredients and shake over ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass, making sure no seeds or bits of pepper make it into the drink. Rub a slice of jalapeño around the glass rim. Garnish with a cherry.





Brazilian Tourist 



  • 4 mint leaves
  • 1/2 ounce simple syrup
  • 1/2 ounce lemon juice
  • 1/2 ounce pineapple juice
  • 1 tsp. yuzu juice
  • 1 ounce green tea
  • 1 1/2 ounces cachaça
  • Sprig of mint, for garnish
Tear mint leaves and place in a mixing glass. Add simple syrup, lemon juice, pineapple juice, yuzu juice, green tea and cachaça. Add ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a highball glass over ice. Garnish with a large mint sprig.


Edison's Medicine

  • 3 large sprigs of basil
  • 3/4 ounce agave syrup
  • 1 1/2 ounces cachaça
  • 1/2 ounce yellow Chartreuse (an herbal liqueur)
  • 1 ounce lime juice
  • Lemon peel, for garnish
Muddle the basil and agave syrup.

Add the remaining ingredients and shake with ice. Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with lemon peel.

and the most famous recipe ........


CAIPIRINHA


  • 1/2 lime, quartered

  • 1 teaspoon white sugar

  • 2 1/2 fluid ounces cachaca

  • 1 cup ice cubes





  • In a large rocks glass squeeze and drop in 2 eighths of lime. Add sugar, crush and mix with a spoon. Pour in the cachaca and plenty of ice. Stir well.



    Please remember to drink responsibly!



    Have a fabulous weekend!!





    Friday, September 30, 2011

    FashionMom: Chanel Foundation For Women of all colors - Perfec...

    FashionMom: Chanel Foundation For Women of all colors - Perfec...: Finally! Chanel one of the most venerable fashion and beauty houses in the world has launched a line for foundations for women of co...

    Chanel Foundation For Women of all colors - Perfection Luminere



    Mat Lumiere Long Lasting Soft Matte Fluid Makeup SPF15 - # 100 Soft Honey - Chanel - Complexion - Mat Lumiere Long Lasting Soft Matte Fluid Makeup SPF15 - 30ml/1oz




    Finally!  Chanel one of the most venerable fashion and beauty houses in the world has launched a line for foundations for women of color. I was able to get a demonstration and makeover and it was well worth my time.

    The Foundation is Perfection Luminere, long wearing flawless fluid makeupLuminere Foundation. The line has 23 shades for women from the very fair to very dark. It has SPF 10 which is a wonderful plus and it lasts up to 13 hours.

    My Chanel artist applied my foundation with a foundation brush and advised me to apply and blend the foundation in  immediately in the area of application. Since it is long wearing blending the foundation in immediately is important in order to avoid spots if it dries. Pre foundation application, we discussed my skincare and makeup regimen and needs based on my skin type (normal to dry ). She applied the fluid moisturizer and the Ultra Correction Line Repair Ultra Correction Line Repair   anti wrinkle eye creme ( I am a bit obsessed with eye cremes because of dark circles). She applied the eye cream pressing it gently into the eye area,  I later purchased the creme, it felt wonderful on my eyes and I now use her technique for application, it feels like a special eye treat every time.
    She tried 3 shades on my jawline and we decided on #114 Ambre. My request was for a clean, flawless but natural finish. This foundation has the patented Chanel Perfect Light Control Complex. Ambre  was exactly as I requested, it was natural and  flawless and I can now attest lasts all day. She applied a beautiful trio of shages on my eyes, added blush to my cheeks and the finished look was gorgeous.  I looked ready for a day or night scenario, clean, pretty but natural. If applied in heavier amounts the look is finished but semi- matte, lighter application results glorious sheen but still clean and finished.

    Please find links below for other great products  I discovered during my makeover.   These will quickly become indispensable during your daily beauty routine, all from Chanel.

    Crayon Sourcils- Subtle but gets your brows in super shape ( just a touch and brush)


    Joues Contraste Blush - in 55 in Love - Classy with a hint of glitter.


    Illusion D Ombre Eyeshadow- Amazing color for the entire eye or a highlighter, great for day and night. One of the best colors of any skin tone I have used in ages.
    The eyeshadow was named one of the best in Allure Beauty Best issue September 2011.

    Please try the Intense mascara it does not flake and clump!

    Head to your nearest stockist and receive a gift with during launch time this month.  I usually alternate between Mac Skin and Body Foundation or Laura Mercier Oil Free but Chanel was just added to my regular rotation.

    Happy Shopping!


    Stockists
    Macys
    Bloomingdales
    Nordstrom
    Chanel.com
    Amazon.com

    Tuesday, September 13, 2011

    FashionMom: Stampede at my local Target for Missoni. Score one...

    FashionMom: Stampede at my local Target for Missoni. Score one...: I thought I was early..... I wanted to get a good look at the Missoni Line for Target and post an update on my blog, well.... I was very la...

    Stampede at my local Target for Missoni. Score one for Target for getting them into the store!

    I thought I was early..... I wanted to get a good look at the Missoni Line for Target and post an update on my blog, well.... I was  very late. The clothing racks were cleared out, all of the home items were gone, no bags, no luggage nothing. Women were walking around the store some looking a bit sheepish with shopping carts piled high with anything......I mean everything and anything.
    It was shocking to see this much consumption during at such a difficult time in our economy but it also meant that certain segments of the population are not feeling any effects of the recession, it was shocking. Or to be fair,  it could also mean that so many people are out of work that sellign Missoni online to people all over the world is a great prospect.
    I got my lip gloss and proceeded to the cash register where I was sandwiched between many women with carpets, rugs, boxes, clothing all Missoni.
    The cashier told me that a lot of women told her that they would be selling their goods on EBAY, well there will be lots of choice on EBAY folks and I suspect that there will be lots of returns too, either because of very angry spouses or just plain old reality. It is a jolt though to learn that while some people are working to pay bills and keep their children on the straight and narrow other people out there are just having splurges at Target.
    Some reality.

    Happy Shopping folks!

    Friday, August 26, 2011

    It’s Friday! Knock Out Creations! The Zombie Trio!



    Warning! baby these cocktails or you will have to get a cab home or assign a designated driver. Or opt to stay at home and invite your friends over to sample these knock outs! The combination of rum and fruits lull you into having 1, 2 and then 3….



    Walking Zombie

    1 measure white rum

    1 measure golden rum

    1 measure dark rum

    1 measure apricot brandy

    1 measure lime juice

    I measure pineapple juice

    1 teaspoon sugar syrup

    Orange and lime slices and ice.

    Pour the white, golden and dark rum, apricot brandy, lime juice, pineapple juice, and sugar syrup over ice cubes. Shake vigorously until frosted. Half fill a chilled highball glass with the cracked ice and strain the cocktail over it. Dress with the slice of orange and lime…..sip……sip…sip.



    Zombie Prince



    Dash of Angostura bitters

    1 measure white rum

    1 measure golden rum

    1 measure dark rum

    ½ measure lemon juice

    ½ measure orange juice

    ½ measure grapefruit juice

    1 teaspoon brown sugar

    Splash the bitters over the ice cubes in a mixing glass. Add the white rum, golden rum, dark rum, lemon juice, orange, juice, and grapefruit juice and add the brown sugar. Stir to mix well, and then strain into a chilled highball glass.




    Zombie


    Crushed ice

    2 measures dark rum

    2 measures white rum

    1 measure golden rum

    1 measure triple sec

    1 measure lime juice

    1 measure orange juice

    1 tablespoon grenadine

    1 tablespoon orgeat syrup

    1 teaspoon Pernod.

    Put crushed ice in a blender with the dark, white and golden rum and the triple sec, fruit juices, grenadine, orgeat syrup and Pernod. Blend until smooth, pour without straining into a chilled highball glass.







    Please remember to drink responsibly!



    Have a fantastic weekend!

    Monday, August 22, 2011

    FashionMom: Summer Travel and Shop, East Coast Towns! Our Top...

    FashionMom: Summer Travel and Shop, East Coast Towns! Our Top...: Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Newport, Hamptons and Cape Cod. All of the towns listed above have been beloved summer towns year ...

    Summer Travel and Shop, East Coast Towns! Our Top Picks











    Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Newport, Hamptons and Cape Cod.


    All of the towns listed above have been beloved summer towns year after year. These stores listed (many housed in pretty white clapboard cottages) make the weekend experience special. They all have that old world general store feel and offer a mix of home, clothing and jewelry. They offer a wonderful respite from the beach on a lazy summer afternoon.

    Martha’s Vineyard

    Midnight Farm

    Department store which sells everything from Diptyque Candles, JR Watkins lotions to bedding and bohemian type clothing for the entire family.

    18 Walther-Cromwell Ln, Vineyard Haven

    The Great Put On

    Sells clothing for the family, shoes, gifts, jewelry and accessories by fantastic indie labels.

    1 Dock St, Edgartown MA












    Nantucket


    Eye of The Needle

    Ultimate preppy Basics for men and women, Palm Beach in Nantucket.

    14 Federal St

    Patina

    Beautiful jewelry and vases are shown to perfection amongst stunning accessories and clothing.

    23 Centre St








    Newport

    Mandarine

    Jewelry, accessories and clothing and designs from all over the world. Madarine also has a sister boutique on St Barth’s. A must visit.

    16 R Bannister’s Wharf

    Tastemaker and Cottage Garden

    Tastemaker offers exquisite flea market finds while Cottage Garden sells a wide array of plants, containers and pottery for the home.

    64 Thames St and 9 Bridge St

    Resails

    Gorgeous assortment in juicy colors and a side array of styles. A dizzying selection, come with your card you will be leaving with a lot. The company was one of the first to recycle sails, and their creations are one of a kind, chic and the prices are excellent!

    400 Thames St








    Cape Cod


    Design Works

    Home goods based on Scandinavian design and exquisite vintage jewelry make this store a must visit.

    159 Main St, Yarmouth Port

    Midsummer Nights

    The store sells everything from bedding, candles and jewelry to clothing with a preppy but ethic vibe.

    471 Main St,

    Weekend

    I love New England stores because they all remind you of a family general store, Weekend has this and more, they sell beautiful clothing, home goods and wares all under one roof. A must visit on your list.

    217 Main St, East Orleans.













    The Hamptons


    Jarlathdan

    Sumptuous home goods store with everything from furniture to beautiful accessories, this store is a must visit for furnishing your cottage.

    255 Main St, Amagansett

    Roberta Freyman

    Think exotic, want something exotic for you or your home.. Roberta Freyman, this large store sells her exotic jewelry , clothing and accessories.

    66 Newton Ln, East Hampton

    Turpan

    Turpan inspires you to head to the kitchen while on vacation but you can also pick up designer jewelry and clothing too. One stop for fantastic finds.

    55 Main St, East Hampton

    Henry Lehr

    Where you head to get your jeans fix satisfied or pick up some eclectic finds including cool sweaters and throws for chilly nights in late August.

    16 Newton Lane

    Tracy Feith

    Prints are his signature and you will find plenty of that and some at this boutique located in the Surf Lodge in Montauk. A must visit for both!

    183 Edgemere st, Montauk



    Off of the coast
    Maine

    Antiques By Zaar

    you can"t go wrong with the personalized service and prices from this store. Owner Ruth Olbrych is one of the nicest people on the planet and helped guide me through my purchase of a Chinese daybed from my initial phone purchase to final delivery to my home in New Jersey. She travels around the world for her finds and you will not get better pieces at a better price anywhere else. Exquisite pieces. Ask for Ruth Olbrych
    301 Peacock Hill Rd, New Glouchester. 207-777-3800




    Happy Shopping!








    Friday, August 19, 2011

    It's Friday! Short and Chic! The Original Cocktail!

    Frosted glasses with long stems conjure up images of  passion, mystery and cool. These drinks are short and chic, they are the epitome of the word "cocktail"
    These are originals.....enjoy




    Negroni




    Stinger ...before Prohibition

    11/2 fl oz brandy
    3/4 fl oz white cremem de menthe.
    Stir the brandy and Creme de Menthe together and pour into a well chilled cocktail glass. Serve with a stirrer





















    Negroni...early twentieth century created by Count Camillo Negroni a Florentine nobleman

    Ice Cubes
    1 fl oz Campari
    1 fl oz sweet red Vermouth
    1 fl oz Gin
    twist of orange, to decorate
    Half Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, add the Campari, sweet vermouth, and gin, and shake well. Strain into a well chilled cocktail glass and serve with a twist of orange.
























    White Lady.....Shaken and strained by Happy McElhone at Ciro's Club off London Haymarket in 1919.

    Ice cubes
    2 fl oz gin
    1 fl oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
    1 fl oz Cointreau
    Wedge or twist of lemon to serve

    Put half a dozen ice cubes in a cocktail shaker; add the gin, lemon juice and Cointreau; and shake vigorously. Strain into a well chilled cocktail glass and serve with a wedge or twist of lemon.






















    Sidecar


    Golden Cadillac.......gorgeous golden hue

     1 fl oz White Creme de Cacao
    1 fl oz Galliano
    1 fl oz light cream
    Ice Cubes
    Pour the Creme de cacao, Galliano and cream into a cocktail shaker; add 4 or 5 cubes; and shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass.






















    Sidecar - created at the end of WW1 but legendary barman, Harry McElhone, for one of the regulars who frequented his New York Bar in Paris

    Ice Cubes
    2 fl oz brandy
    1 fl oz Cointreau
    1 fl oz freshly squeezed orange juice
    Twist of orange
    Half hill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and pour in the brandy, Cointreau and lemon juice. Shake had and strain into a well chilled cocktail glass. Decorate with a twist of orange.

























    Between The Sheets......the heady days of 1930s America, bartenders vied with each other to keep their customers coming back for more....



    1 fl oz white rum
    1 fl oz brandy
    1 fl oz Cointreau or triple sec
    1 fl oz lemon juice
    Twist of lemon zest
    Put the rum, brandy, Cointreau or Triple Sec, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker, and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve decorate with a twist of lemon zest.























    White Lady



    Have a fantastic weekend!!


    This post is
    Dedicated to my sister Bev, hope you get better soon!!



    Monday, August 15, 2011

    New "Things to Treasure" Laduree comes to New York, Essence, Town and Country, Real Simple Family and Golf reading for children.






    Laduree has arrived!  
    Momofuku cookies are divine, Crumbs bakery has scrumptous cupcakes,  but we have to stop for a minute and consider what Laduree will unleash in New York City this fall.
    If you have not eaten a macaron before, wait, have one from Laudree on August 22nd and let the obbession begin.

    Laduree is a Parisian patisserie founded in 1862  and it is most famous for it's double decker macarons. The bakery is credited with inventing the double decker macarons. There are Laduree shops all over the world in addition to four in Paris, there are bakeries in  London, Milan, and Istanbul among other places but never one in New York City. They will open a store this month, on August 22nd  at 864 Madison Ave, NY ( between 70th and 71st). The location will have two areas one for enjoying macarons on site and the other for orders ( mine included) .





    It is said that in the 16th century Catherine de" Medici brought the macaron from Italy to France. Louis Ernest Laduree was a miller, who opened a bakery on the Rue Royale in Paris. In the 1930's his second cousin Pierre Desfontaines, invented the double decker macaron, a flavored ganache between two macaron shells. If you have had a macaron, if not well made, the ganache can be too sweet, too crumbly or too pasty, it has to be just right, the shells and the ganache, Laduree always seems to get it right.

    They come in fantastic variations by season Mint and Strawberry, Lily of The Valley, Almond Morello Cherry, Granny Smith Apple and other delicious flavors.

    Find yourself at Laduree this month or get on the phone and place your order!




















    Town and Country and Essence have new editors and this is change I can definitely believe in.

    Town and Country's editor is Jay Fielden of Men's Vogue fame, Pamela Fiori left months ago and the void was filled briefly by Stephen Drucker but this is my second Fielden Issue and it is excellent. The articles are insightful and colorful, I read the magazine from cover to cover.  There is some interesting insight from Ashraf Kahlil  about the changes in Cairo, from both a colonial and present day view. There is a profile of the three homes owned by the late reclusive heiress Hugette Clark, a wonderful story about the relationship between a woman and her favorite scents by Gully Wells then last but not least two stories about Ernest Hemingway and his family. The magazine has zoomed to the top of my to read list, the stories have great depth, grab a copy or download it now! The fashion is still there but the magazine now has so much more.






















    Constance White has had a significant career in fashion from her role as the NY Times Fashion contributor, to EBAY fashion director and now to editor in chief at Essence magazine. Her second issue is stunning, Essence has gone global, the stories, beauty and fashion reads have a global perspective and that is truly refreshing. There is a story about Women from the Diaspora which covers black Brits, another profiles women from countries all over the world and what they are wearing,  and under Work and Wealth excellent tips for Storage Ssolutions at home and do not miss the Reader's Choice awards!  Another one for you to read cover to cover.






















    Real Simple is one of my favorite magazines, I love the stories about family and cooking among other topics and  now we have the same fantastic formula with Real Simple Family, it is a single issue magazine and you need to grab it before it is gone. They cover great issues from how to tackle homework battles, to fixing boo boos to schedule streamlining. Fall 2011, is on newstands or downloads now.

    I was at the PGA Championship today and met wonderful author Susan Greene who was promoting Count on Golf and my daughter loved it for her read before bed tonight and we loved it because it exposed her to something new and she was counting and spelling at the same time with Jimmy the bear, it was fun.
    The books are
    Count on Golf- counting from 1 to 10 using golf accessories and rhymes .
    The ABC's of Golf - Learn the alphabet and the game from A to Z.
    Consider it Golf- Rhymes and Etiquette and golf safety.
    Opposites with Golf- learn the game using the concepts of opposites.
    Junior golf Journal - Track progress and enjoy memories.

    Worth every penny!

    Enjoy your new treasures and please send us your feedback about those delicious macarons.



    FashionMom




    Friday, August 12, 2011

    It's Friday! The Gimlet and The Lemon Drop, variations on two cocktails.













    The Gimlet




    When Spirits and Beer were stored in wooden barrels, bartenders unsed a small sharp tool called a gimlet to tap into them. This inspired the creation of a refreshing short citrusy cocktail. In 1953 Raymond Chandler made it the favorite of our favorite detective Philip Marlowe in The Long Goodbye.



    The Gimlet

    11/2 fl oz gin

    11/2 fl oz lime cordial

    Cracked ice cubes

    Small lime wedge, to decorate

    Put the gin, lime cordial ( such as Rose’s lime juice, or mix equal parts sugar syrup and fresh lime juice), and 4 to 5 cracked ice cubes into a cocktail shaker, and shake vigorously. Strain into a well chilled cocktail glass and serve decorated with a wedge of lime.



    Gimlet on the rocks

    11/2 fl oz gin

    11/2 fl oz lime cordial

    Cracked Ice cubes

    Pour the gin and lime cordial into a sours or old fashioned glass filled with ice. Stir well and drop a wedge of lime into the glass. Serve with a stirrer.


    Vodka Gimlet

    11/2 fl oz Vodka

    11/2 Lime Cordial

    5 cracked cubes.

    Serve straight up or over ice.




    Tequila Gimlet

    11/2 fl oz Vodka

    11/2 Lime Cordial

    5 cracked cubes

    Serve straight up or over ice.



    Scotch Gimlet

    11/2 fl oz Scotch Whiskey

    11/2 fl oz Lime Cordial

    5 cubes cracked ice



    Put the Scotch, lime cordial ( such as Rose’s lime juice, or mix equal parts sugar syrup and fresh lime juice), and 4 to 5 cracked ice cubes into a cocktail shaker, and shake vigorously. Strain into a well chilled cocktail glass and serve decorated with a wedge of lime.


    The Lemon Drop – The Cool Lemon Classic



    Lemon Wedge

    Superfine Sugar

    11/2 fl oz vodka

    ½ fl oz Limoncello

    ½ fl oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

    Lemon slice to serve.

    Rub the rim of a cocktail glass with the lemon wedge. Dip the rim in superfine sugar and chill well. Half fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes; add the vodka, Limoncello, and lemon juice; shake vigorously. Strain into the glass and serve decorated with a lemon slice.

    Citrus Drop

    Lemon Wedge

    Superfine Sugar

    11/2 fl oz vodka

    ½ fl oz Triple sec

    ½ fl oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

    Lemon slice to serve.

    Rub the rim of a cocktail glass with the lemon wedge. Dip the rim in superfine sugar and chill well. Half fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes; add the vodka, Triple Sec, and lemon juice; shake vigorously. Strain into the glass and serve decorated with a lemon slice.



    Sweet Lemon Drop

    Lemon Wedge

    Superfine Sugar

    21/2 fl oz vodka

    ½ fl oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

    Lemon slice to serve.

    Sugae Cube

    Rub the rim of a cocktail glass with the lemon wedge. Dip the rim in superfine sugar and chill well. Half fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes; add the vodka, and lemon juice; shake vigorously. Strain into the glass and serve decorated with a lemon slice. Drop one sugar cube into the glass before serving.



    Melon Drop

    Superfine Sugar

    11/2 fl oz vodka

    ½ fl oz Midori melon liqueur

    ½ fl oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

    Maraschino cherry to serve.

    Rub the rim of a cocktail glass with the lemon wedge. Dip the rim in superfine sugar and chill well. Half fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes; add the vodka, Midori melon liqueur, and lemon juice; shake vigorously. Strain into the glass and serve decorated with a cherry.




    Lemon Soda Drop – use a highball glass

    Lemon Wedge

    Superfine Sugar

    11/2 fl oz vodka

    ½ fl oz Limoncello

    ½ fl oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

    Cream soda or lemonade

    Lemon slice to serve.

    Rub the rim of a cocktail glass with the lemon wedge. Dip the rim in superfine sugar and chill well. Half fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes; add the vodka, Limoncello, and lemon juice; shake vigorously. Strain into the glass and top with cream soda or lemonade, serve decorated with a lemon slice.


    Please drink responsibly!

    Have a great weekend!

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