Kitten Lounge

Trendy Thursdays: Project Detox ~ Road Trippin'

KittenCouture — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:49:48 -0800

In an ongoing series, Keren Weinstein, our Guest Life-Balance Editor, took a much needed trip. More than the need to go on vacation to a new locale, she wanted to find her own sense of balance and thus Project Detox began. Last week, we jumped on a horse and went happy trailing. Today, Keren shows us that a little road trip is all we need to continue to reconnect.

We all live in different locales. Different speeds. We do different things.

Have a different purpose.

Different lives.

But no matter what kind of life we live, it needs to be balanced.

The ‘balancing cocktail’ required to reach that equilibrium is different for each of us.

For some, a trip to a big city like NY or Tokyo may be what they need.

For this full time working urban mom, the prescription for ‘road to equilibrium’ sounds more like….

Take an all American road trip through California Coast with a great friend and call me in the morning!

A bit of a travel snob, I don’t normally embark on road trips as my choice of vacation. Usually, I fly (direct) to my destination and have researched and received recommendations on what to do, see, experience, buy, eat, sleep before I even step foot on the plane. I don’t miss a beat. Or do I?

There is something about road trips that gives you a sense of care-free exploration. Of appreciating the journey not just the destination. Of really traveling.

I can recall that feeling when I road tripped through the West Coast with my best friend and her family as a teen.

It was now time to reignite that engine.

I have been blessed with meeting and having so many amazing people in my life.

And thanks to eM, FB, t, SMS, MMS, BB, LinkedIn, etc. I get to keep in touch in lieu of my busy lifestyle. But, a very important part of ‘the balanced life’ (and remaining true to myself), is spending quality in-person time with my family & friends.

The next few days, was going to be about the benefits of friendship. And roadship.

We knew overall where we were heading but drove where the wind took us.

Have a plan and go with the flow.

A motto I swear by.

If you want to get somewhere in life (or in a given day) you need to have a plan. An intention.
But, it’s the plans that move with the current that survive and thrive daily tides and storms.

You need to Surf. Cruise. And breathe through life’s changes all while remembering to still have fun. Life is colorful. Not just black and white lists of to do’s.

The coastal fresh air. The amazing landscapes. The speed. The maps. The music. The picture pull-overs. The lavender farm pit stops. The conversation. The shared quiet. The freedom. The nostalgia.

The fun.

Who knew I would actually [still] be driving on a Journey through Myself?!

At one point, driving on the road with great music along the stunning backdrop of hilly landscape, it felt like we were in one of those car commercials. Turns out. ‘We were’.

We have reached San Luis Obispo County which is known to be the location for filming many of our national car commercials.

Considered one of the best stops for ‘Pure California’ between San Francisco and L.A., San Louis Obispo (SLO) was a perfect way to stray off course. And with the vineyards a few miles away the weather was grape perfect. The locals refer to it as SLO (to imply the ‘slow alternative to the hectic life’). It's a ‘natural escape where slowing down to enjoy the good life is the essence’. One might say I didn't stray off course, I was finally on the right course.

Surrounded by rolling hills as if suspended in the middle of nowhere was the historic mission town of SLO. A small almost European village-like town. Quaint. Vibrant and colorful. Relaxed and laid back. Energized. Playful. Almost caracature’ish. Definitely surreal. Happy.

This travel pit stop, I did not research in advance. I was going to explore on my own. Enjoy in a different way. Raw.

I walked the pristine streets and found myself in a shopping heaven. Adorable high-end boutiques and antique shops that were charming and unpretentious. (I later found out Lucky Magazine calls SLO it “Sprinkled with charmingly unpretentious shops”. Right on Lucky! )

Excellent places to dine, go wine tasting, grab cocktails, coffee or frozen yogurt. Many of them boasting local wine, cheese, produce, olive oil, fish. It was fresh and colorful and healthy and delish. It is no wonder the first Jamba Juice location began in SLO. They aren’t slow at all in knowing what is good for you.

After stumbling upon the colorful, quirky & famed Bubble Gum Alley and taking a trip back in time at Powell’s Sweet Shop, I felt like a kid seeing Willy Wonka ’s factory for the first time. The vintage candy. The sweet smell. The colors. The excitement. “What we really offer are memories. We want to walk our customers down memory lane and remind them of good things and good times.” Mr. Powell wanted me to find that core childlike happiness.

A killer song by The Police lead this 80’s child into a small café. In the back, I discovered a beautiful outdoor garden. Full of color. Crisp. Picture perfect.

I sat sipping my tea and with a journal in hand.

I was in the moment living the SLO life. I was in a happy place.

Now this is road trippin.

Start your engines.

Keren Weinstein is a seasoned professional in Fashion & Beauty with over 12 years in Integrated Marketing, Advertising and Celebrity Fashion Styling

Trendy Thursdays ~ Project Detox: Happy Trailing

KittenCouture — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:25:45 -0800

In an ongoing series, Keren Weinstein, our Guest Life-Balance Editor, took a much needed trip. More than the need to go on vacation to a new locale, she wanted to find her own sense of balance and thus Project Detox began. Last week, we embraced our inner ink. Today, Keren shows us a life in paradox in the hills of L.A..

Balance.

As a true Libran, it is what sits at the core of my being. And as an urban full time working mom it is something I stru[j]uggle to maintain.

This Air sign has been knocked off the balance beam by Fire one too many times and was calling in her troops.
In the arid Sanoran desert, I ‘detoxed’ the stresses & toxins from my busy lifestyle. Unclogged the areas within Me that needed attention. Reconnected.

Completely cleansed, rejuvenated, relaxed, mindful, and open, it was now time for me to re-visit a [new] terrain and get energized. Create movement. Re-awaken.

Experience: Air. Water. Earth. (& Fun!).

Get inspired.

Once I put it out there and my intention was set, the Las Angeles Magazine Issue (shown above amongst pictures from my hikes on the coast of the PCH) seemed to fall into my lap.

There it was!

My next step in this Journey.

I had to be the woman on the cover.

And, remember, I have a producer / leading actress credit in my own movie [titled Horse Power], and a new Inner Ink tattoo, so I am Hollywood.

With my L.A. Magazine in hand, I set out for the hills of California.

I have learned in Arizona that through the lenses things/people/places/issues can look different depending on the day, lighting, etc. Although I have been to L.A. many times, I am now here for a different purpose. I am in a different light.

The Editor of L.A. Magazine in her ‘Walkabout’ article captured how balanced L.A. is. A paradox of living. Even though it is known to be one of the most densely populated (2nd to yours truly) metropolitan area in the U.S., where blackberry’s & bumper-to-bumper traffic is the norm, it also harbors more wilderness than any other metropolitan area in the country. Allowing for mini-escapes and outdoor places to exercise and reconnect with nature. With yourself.

With great weather and ecology, ‘L.A. life outdoors’ is embedded into their daily lives. It is part of their culture. Their DNA. When you are in L.A. you see it clearly, but if you have not been, think Sex and the City/Gossip Girl verse Entourage/90210.

There are so many hikes with different terrains & difficulty level. Secluded and full of nature to asphalt pathways that are pet, stroller and bike friendly. Views of the city, ocean, wilderness, desert, hills, trees, cacti and/or stunning homes.

I hiked through many of these trails. Some were a serious workout. Some were seriously moving and memorable.

The biggest takeaway from hiking through L.A. was the inspiration it gave me for living a balanced, relaxed and healthy life.

As a mom, I was mostly inspired by a friend I met on the trail at Runyon Canyon in Hollywood. The wife of a famed producer, and mom of four, she is quite busy. Hiking with all of her kids (which they do daily!) is their time to connect. Ironically, they were relocating to NY for a film and although were excited for the increase in culture (and all the other fabulous reason we <3 NY) they were struggling with the idea of how to continue to live the healthy-outdoor-balanced lifestyle as a family.

The hike that was most memorable (& fun) was the one where I got to be that hiker in the L.A. Magazine cover. It all began with surfing at Malibu beach. The breeze and fresh air from the ocean. We then began a light hike from Westward beach (coast of Zuma beach). Enjoying the sweeping views of the coast atop Point Dume. We then decent to the beach and after enjoying quiet moments listening to the waves crash against the rocks, we jog the stretch of beach to the Paradise Cove restaurant for lunch and cocktails with friends. Yum.

Looking around me. We were not the only ones. This was the norm for couples, athletes, teens, and families alike. This was the L.A. paradox. And I loved it.

From dusk till dawn. I was happy trailing.

Keren Weinstein is a seasoned professional in Fashion & Beauty with over 12 years in Integrated Marketing, Advertising and Celebrity Fashion Styling

Treasure Tuesdays ~ Wishing For Warmth

KittenCouture — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 04:00:00 -0700

Pour La Victoire Adriane Bootie in Black $319 - Singer22

Pamela Love Douglas Feather Cuff $575 - Zoe

Gabbie $110 ~ Kitten Couture

Joie Jupiter Kimono Jumper $384 - shopbop.com

It's so hard! When the weather starts getting chilly but I'm watching shows like the Hills, I wonder why I couldn't have decided to move to LA as opposed to being in NYC. But then I remember that NY is someplace that I could never be away from and if cold is the tradeoff, then I would need to just deal with it! The good news is, I'm able to travel so I never have to stay in the cold for too long. Thinking of LA makes me remember that I have plans to visit later on this year or as late as Feb and I love the idea of mixing an element of summer with a bit of fall. I'm obsessed with kimono outfits (yesterday I was wearing a kimono top over a pair of jeans) but if I were out an about in LA, I would love this simple Kimono jumper by Joie paired with these booties. I love that they're suede and have a bit of rocker detail. To add to that, the cuff of metal feathers is the perfect compliment and today, I'm including a Mother of Pearl, snail shell, Agate piece from my jewelry line, Kitten Couture!

I could imagine this on a day meeting with showrooms to talk about new collections, meeting with friends, heading out to dinner and more! Just looking at this look makes me want to start planning trips to leave the impending cold! Even if you're not heading anywhere, these are great pieces to begin including within your closet or at the very least, you'll want to click within the spread and check out the fab brands! For those that are fan of Kitten Couture, contact me as I have a special promo that you can use from now to the end of the month to add a little spice into your jewelry collection!

Trendy Thursdays ~ Project Detox: The Meal of the Moment

KittenCouture — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:08:03 -0700

In an ongoing series, Keren Weinstein, our Guest Life-Balance Editor, took a much needed trip. More than the need to go on vacation to a new locale, she wanted to find her own sense of balance and thus Project Detox began. Last week, we realized that a scent can calm us and create its own memory of peace and tranquility! Today, Keren brings us to the perfect moment with a meal.

I’m a young girl at a family function when I notice my L.A. based uncle sitting by the patio with the sun shining on his face. He is eating something from the fruit tray. By the looks of it one might think he was eating a slice of heaven. I immediately dart over.

‘Taste this Fig’ he says. Still standing I take a small bite and begin chewing. As if the faster I chew the quicker, I too, will taste.

‘Whoa. Slow it down. He tells me.

Sit down. Close your eyes.

Now take another bite.

Roll it in your mouth and let it touch the different taste buds.

Smell the experience.

Feel the texture & sensation.

Taste.’

(Wow. Was that the SAME Fig?) I recall opening my eyes & needing a moment just to snap back.

This was my first experience with Mindful Eating. I confess. Originally, I wrote it off as his ‘California’ way of eating.

And I was New York.

Fast forward to Project Detox where I am on the hunt to infuse balance into my every day life. When I see an activity called Mindful Eating I immediately sign up. The curiosity. The nostalgia. The craving for another Miraval-esque experience.

And after being gently slumber I woke up reborn. Hungry like a baby.

We sit with an appetite and an open mind in the dining room. Table set for about 20 guests. (Eating & mingling. Perfect!). Amongst us sits Junelle, the nutritionist. As she guides us through the meal with tips and teachings along the way, we quickly realize that the Only mingling was going to be with our inner selves and with the food!

We are not to talk to each other. We are to focus on the act of eating. Take a moment to notice our surroundings. The setting. The plate. The color and consistency of the food. To take a bite and feel the texture and temperature of the food in our mouths. Acknowledge the process of chewing and swallowing. The pause in between. Notice the after taste. Breathe.

It was challenging (& a bit awkward) to eat quietly in lieu of being amongst new friends but the greater the challenge the greater the reward. In no time did I learn about my personal relationship with food. About eating intuitively.

We were all shocked at how much food was left on our plates when we felt full and how delicious the experience was. The French know this. Quality over Quantity. They are thin.

It makes sense. Your brain receives a signal from the body through the central nervous system that you are hungry, eating and full. If your mind is ‘multi-tasking’ or rushing through a meal then there is no mind-body connection. You then miss the essential flavors and pleasures of the food & your digestion efficiency is decreased (and how ironic that IBS and stomach disease is on the rise). Plus, your brain may miss the messages that you are even eating - let alone full.

It may still think you are hungry. You continue eating.

No skinny jeans for you.

Our lives are in high-speed. If on-the-go we can talk, text, trade stocks, email, shop and for just about Anything…’there’s an App for that’, then you KNOW eating on-the-go must have been mastered way before that. Long ago in the U.S. eating has been defaulted as ‘another task to do on our list’. We eat meals while working at our desks, driving, watching TV, even walking.

OK, clearly we cannot eat every meal in silent focusing on the act of eating. Dinner with friends & family is Critical and there are times we simply must eat on-the-go. But between eating 3 meals and about 2 snacks per day, we have over 35 opportunities a week to attempt it. In between it all, we Can balance a sense of well-being with our high speed culture.

The picture above is my son ‘E’ at my favorite lunchtime-waterfall-escape-spot in NYC two blocks from my office. It’s important to me he learns the importance of mindful eating early on. No write offs this time.

Most cities are packed with many public parks, gardens, waterfalls, etc. and with an iPOD you can be staging moments for your meals just about anywhere. Another trick is to at least eat the first bite of every meal mindfully to set the tone. Putting your fork down in between bites really does help (thanks Junelle).

Book time on your calendar to eat mindful meals. Treat it with the importance of a business meeting or a trip to the doctor. This is time for you. A much needed break. A reconnection.

Slow down. Become aware. Chew. Pause. Savor. Enjoy.

Haven’t you heard?

Mindful eating is the meal of the moment!

Bon Appétit

Keren Weinstein is a seasoned professional in Fashion & Beauty with over 12 years in Integrated Marketing, Advertising and Celebrity Fashion Styling

Mingling Mondays ~ Welcome to Vegas Baby!

KittenCouture — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:00:08 -0700

Welcome to Vegas, I got here yesterday morning and spent time just hanging out and resting. It's going to be a hectic serious of days that will involve me attending Curve, Magic, Accessories Show, Project and more. What a great time to learn about some fabulous brands and to let you guys have a sneak peek about them as well. In addition, we'll be out and about at night to check out some fun parties and restaurants as well! Before the hectic schedule begins, I wanted to show a form of serenity. This morning I woke up to see mountains and of course the strip in the stark of day. I'm staying at the Venetian (love it) and love that the landscape is a bit relaxing as well. Yesterday, there was a lot of haze out there (LA isn't that far away so their fires are definitely affecting the air) but it's nice to see the red and beige colors of the area. I can't wait to share everything with all of you.

Fashionable Fridays: Bebe's It Girl

KittenCouture — Fri, 29 May 2009 14:42:46 -0700

Earlier this year, I let you guys know about Bebe's search for their It Girl - in case you missed out, you should check out the previous post about this. Well with a search that stretched across the country, it all culminated in LA. Regional winners represented their part of the world by being apart of a an amazing 3 days where they were photographed, met one another in order to see who would be the first "It Girl" for Bebe! As you may remember, these girls were give the opportunity to interact with people within the fashion industry including Bebe, Elite Model Management, Look Model Management and Elle Magazine! Another amazing experience was that their photoshoot took place at the Malibu home of Jack Guy. In September, you'll be able to see a lot of images but until then, we were given a sneak peek at the finalists, winner and notables within the industry! Congratulations to Rachel who became the first 'It Girl"!

Sippin Saturdays: Up Next - Bebe's It Girl

KittenCouture — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 04:00:00 -0700

I love sharing interesting tidbits with you guys! Whether it's an event that I attended, a new find or simply something that you may be interested in doing - it's always fun to keep you in the know. Today's goodie comes from our new friends from Bebe. It Girl is a contest that is sponsored by Bebe, ELLE Magazine, Elite Model Management and Look Model Management. Together they're looking for your submissions to find the It Girl. From now through April 3rd, you can submit your photos and other info to Bebe's It Girl site. 600 semi-finalists will be chosen and will have the opportunity to do an in store photoshoot in NYC, Chicago, Miami, LA, Atlanta and San Francisco. Those who participate here will receive a 20% discount which will definitely help you with getting a wardrobe just in time for the best part of the Spring.

One finalist from each of the photoshoots will be chosen to go to LA (yes flight and hotel are covered). They will receive an outfit courtesy of Bebe, a $250 Amex Gift Certificate and a photoshoot from a photographer that's with Elite. This is a great way to build your book and of course to meet the other finalists that represent their cities as well.

Finally the winner will of course get an amazing gift: a photoshoot with Bebe, a 6 month modeling contract with Elite Model Management and Look Model Agency, $1,000 cash price, $1,000 wardrobe from Bebe and of course a chance to be featured in ELLE! This is defintiely an exciting opportunity and one where you simply have to enter in order to be considered! Take some time to check out Bebe's It Girl page and begin submitting your info as the last day is April 3rd! Enjoy this video which shares some info about this contest.

Wearable Wednesdays: Lien Ta Gives Oscar Insights

KittenCouture — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 05:00:00 -0800

In NY, we're enjoying Fashion Week; however, this Sun the world turns its attention to the Oscar's in LA. This is always a great time to check out great designs and what the celebs will appear in. Lien Ta, Hollywood.com's celebrity/fashion editor knows a lot about the red carpet and is never too shy to share her thoughts! Below she dishes on her thoughts on the red carpet and answers Kitten Lounge's most important question - how we can bring the looks we see into our everyday lives! Make sure to tune into the 81st annual Oscar's on Feb, 22nd at 8pm on ABC to see all the glam and we will make sure to get additional comments from Lien about her thoughts on the red carpet!

What are the latest red carpet no-no's?

1. Mimicking Jennifer Aniston's snooze-style (I call it: "If Audrina Went to College ..."). Penelope Cruz is doing a helluva job at this.
2. Going all bridal, all the time. Not-so-new bride Nicole Kidman has got to start saying no to white gowns.
3. Slits cut WAY too high. Ahem, Beyonce. The red carpet isn't a music video. Vintage No-No: Refrain from bad fake tanning, a la Charlize Theron.

Who are repeat offenders and who will rise above?

Speaking for major red-carpet events specifically, Angelina Jolie has repeatedly given herself a muffin top with her poorly shaped Max Azria dresses. She often skews "too simple," but quiet glamour works for her -- so long as the muffin top is OUT.

Since her breakup with Mr. Scum, Anne Hathaway = heaven. Buuuuut, lately, she's erred on too weird or too-too daring, so she'll have to be very smart for her first Oscars. I think she will. She'll opt for something very glamorous and special.

Marisa Tomei is a bit of a loose cannon on the red carpet. She's worn some pretty hideous things and some very acceptable things. (I loved her butter-yellow SAG gown but what the heck with the lack of makeup?) She'll look beautiful for the Oscars ... but I imagine at least one thing will be off.

Scarlett Johansson, who's really overdone the "old Hollywood" look. She's made it look almost passe. And I'm sick of the bold, disgusting floral patterns she's been ga-ga for of late.

Cameron Diaz is always kind of crazy. But, really, it's the best way for Cameron to get a little bit of attention, but she has no business being at the Oscars, Globes, et al.

Renee Zellweger is a mess. Always. If it's not her gown (oh, God, the Globes), it's her hair that looks like a brokedown bird's nest.

And though Penelope Cruz skews boring, I think she'll surprise us all for the big night.

How can we apply the trends that will hit the carpet into our "going out looks" when we're hanging out in the Hamptons, Meat Packing District etc?

I think many people feel that the red carpet looks are so glam that we can't take portions of that into how we dress and I believe we can!

The best two ways at adopting a red-carpet flair to your everyday going-out attire is (a.) jewelry and (b.) shoes. Naturally, you wouldn't want to wear a mermaid gown whilst on a bar crawl, but you can flaunt a pair of outrageous Louboutins or wear turquoise jewelry (like Cameron Diaz) and long strands of (fake) diamonds (like Christina Applegate) or one very cool, very big earring (like Angelina Jolie). Next: Try out a short dress.

Wearable Wednesdays: Countdown to Spring

KittenCouture — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 05:00:00 -0800

Yes it's cold out there and although we haven't gotten through the worse part, I love the fact that Spring is around the corner. Over the next few months I'll be traveling to Orlando, Dominican Republic, South Beach, LA, Chicago and possibly Costa Rica. Except for Chicago, the other locations are all warm weather bound (we also have our crawfish and lobster boil during the summer which will take place at our condo with friends)! I've definitely started to purchase a few dresses that will be perfect for these trips. I love my t-shirt/tank and jeans/yoga pants; however, it's nice to glam it up every now and then! To that end, I have been looking for various pieces that are perfect to wear for drinks, going out dancing, etc.

Last last fall, I had the opportunity to learn about Single Dress! I love that they embody "South Beach style". I love the prints, styles and just the element of resort style. Of course you don't have to wait until you go on vacation to wear these pieces. It's perfect to party at the Meat Packing District, to take up to the Hamptons and more. In addition to super cute dresses, Single Dress and its various collections can also be worn with your favorite jeans and shoes as well. Take some time to check out more from this line and to see what looks the celebs have worn as well.

Paul's Honest Meal: Nap Time

KittenCouture — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 05:00:00 -0700

Personally, I love nap time. Is there anything better than an afternoon nap on a chilly Saturday afternoon with a heavy blanket, a lightly cracked window and the warmth of Kitten Lounge’s Editor-in-Chief? The answer is no. The problem is that most of our weekend naps usually follow a heavy meal full of the deadliest combination of carbs and protein; in other words, meat and potatoes. The problem is that our bodies have an extremely difficult time digesting such combinations. But, don’t worry help is on the way. Instead of pasta, rice or potatoes a textbook side dish to any protein is taboule (pronounced: tuh-boo-lee).

Taboule is a traditional Middle Eastern wheat salad and is prepared best with The Roots blasting in the background, accompanying the company of the delicious and the healthy. The brain, the source, the transistor radio transmitting the message from the messenger – healthy body equals healthy mind.

So, here is the recipe:

2 cups 100% Whole grain quick cooking Bulgur Wheat

1 ¾ Cups of Boiling Water

3 Cucumbers

3 Black Tomatoes

1 Medium Onion

Dill, Cilantro and Parsley

1 Small head of Garlic

2 Cups of Raisins

Freshly squeezed juice from one Lemon

1 Jalapeno Pepper

Olive Oil

Salt & Pepper

The preparation is simple. Combine 2 cups of bulgur wheat with 1 ¾ cups of boiling water and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Chop the rest of the ingredients, combine with the wheat and season with olive oil, salt and pepper to your taste.

The beauty of taboule is that you can add pretty much any ingredients; from kiwis to mangos. If you are new to cooking, one important note is to make sure to purge the herbs in cold water to get rid of all the sand before chopping. And if your delicious taboule is being accompanied with a piece of delectable fish, I would suggest pairing your dinner with a bottle of La Playa’s Sauvignon Blanc.

Mingling Mondays: Keeping it La Cucina

KittenCouture — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 05:00:00 -0700

As you know, Mondays are always dedicated to food and today, I thought we would present food in another way! During my interview with A.W. Gryphon, the novelist of Blood Moon, I found out that she is a screenwriter and while she has this new book release, yesterday, her movie, La Cucina, showed at the LA Femme Film Festival. This festival looks to support women filmmakers and is also a great way to have a Q&A with those in the know in the industry! You can still check out the days events although it has concluded. But I definitely wanted to share some info about the movie as I would love to see this when it comes out on DVD or if it appears in a festival in my area!

La Cucina has an amazing cast including: Christina Hendricks (Mad Men), Joaquim de Almeida (Clear and Present Danger), Leisha Hailey (The L Word), Rachel Hunter (Rodeo Girl), Oz Perkins (Legally Blonde), Clare Carey (Jericho), Kala Savage (That 70's Show) and Michael Cornacchia (The Bernie Mac Show)and is a story about how lives can connect and the complications that exist when there is so much being done, but not said. At the same time, no matter the complications, there are commonalities and there is a central place - the kitchen is such a place. It's a place where people can come together and share in a way that other places may prove difficult. The movie centers around four meals and although there may not be an ending that ties everything together, there is something to be said about having the possibility of a happy conclusion or at least the hope to make things right.

Trendy Thursdays: Dashing Divas

KittenCouture — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 08:00:00 -0700

You guys know that I love Dashing Diva. I have been getting my nails done there since 2003 or so! I have always loved how relaxed I feel when I'm there. Going from a super happy patron to someone who has attended their events and gotten to know the team including Robert and Alisha, it's nice to get a better understanding of my favorite salon and also seeing them step into new areas! I was so pleased to see a few things that have popped up over the past few days and had to share it with you!

Jennifer Hudson stopped by at my favorite location on 3rd Ave and 15th street to get her nails done for the shoot of the online video "SpotLight" (I love this song and can't wait to see this). For those who want to sport her look, she selected Lolly Lilac. Of course, one of Dashing Diva's newest members of the team (who I took video of during Fashion Week, backstage at Erin Featherston), Alisha Rimando the Head Nail Tech extraordinaire, worked on Jennifer's nails to make sure they were perfect for her shoot! What a star studded day!

The good news doesn't stop there as Dashing Diva continues to walk the pink carpet in the celebrity zone. Between now and Oct 15th, Dashing Diva has partnered with ABC Daytime and SOAPnet for a nationwide sweepstakes. Whether you're in LA or in NYC, participating salons will allow you to fill out a card to enter. While enjoying the salon between noon and 3pm and/or 5pm and closing, you will be able to catch up on all the details of your favorite ABC soaps including: All My Children, General Hospital and One Life to Live! Winners will receive, 12 free Spoiled Diva Manicures (jealous as you will enjoy skin softening micro-dermabrasion treatment, of course the big finish is a luxurious white willow scented massage for velvety smooth hands) and a $1,000 Revolve.com gift card!

I am so excited and can't wait to let you know about new things that are coming up for Dashing Diva and maybe we'll get to preview some of those amazing colors that Robert was telling me about during Fashion Week!

Wearable Wednesdays: I Love Spreegirl

KittenCouture — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:00:00 -0700

A few months ago, I was introduced to Spreegirl at an Editor's event and I have to say that since that time, I have been hooked on this super cute sleepwear brand. It has gone with me on a lot of trips with friends, meeting other designers and so much more. Spreegirl's philosophy is that you should be fashionable at all times and that it can be carried into bed time. I actually have a super cute gingham set that's a tank top and boy shorts much like the one the model is wearing in the picture. I love that it's super girly while having a bit of a spice in there too. In the end, it's a fun LA line that you should start introducing to your closets!

Fortunately, if you view the site, you can also get a sneak peek into what is available for this fall which is just as great as their spring and summer line as well. Take some time to check out the collection and if you're looking to purchase them, then you should check out such sites as Yandy.com and Revolver Clothing.

Wearable Wednesday: Oscar De La Renta - Accessory Inclusive

KittenCouture — Wed, 21 May 2008 05:00:00 -0700

I love a lot of the runway shows that have emerged with that fab summer theme and of course, my eye is always on the accessoires portion. Currently, Coutorture has posted Oscar De La Renta's amazing cruise collection and as much as I loved so much that I saw, I couldn't take my eye off of this fabulous bag. Not only is it roomy and has a great handle but I love love the texture on this bag. It's so easy and luxurious at the same time! You can definitely slip your laptop on this bag and a slim line notepad as well along with who knows what else you're prone to carry at a moments notice! Take a moment to visit both galleries on Coutorture - the accessories collection and then the line in total! Once again, when you can't get to the runways or had no idea there was a show, it's nice to know that from the convenience of your home you can see everything!

Trendy Thursdays: Do You Have Love For Philly?

KittenCouture — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 05:00:00 -0800

Ok I have to admit, I get sucked into reality shows which is why I do try to avoid them but it gets to be too much and I either see it every time it airs OR I catch it on a marathon. Case in point, the title of this post comes from one of those shows. TV aside, Maptote makes the cutest tote and hobo bags that let you rep your city! Today I want to give love to the city of Brotherly Love. I love that not only does it map the city but it has images that we all think of when we think of this super cute city. I love the LOVE image, Rocky's famous stance and more. This hobo is perfect and if you think that you need something smaller get it in black or taupe as a tote. If you're an LA, Montreal or Paris girl there is a bag for you. This is definitely something that will be great to wear during the Spring and the Summer and of course you will be quite the conversation piece no matter where you're going. Check out Maptote to see what they have available and with a price at $20 - this is definitely something to make the Lovefest last longer!

Fashionable Fridays: Urban Daddy

KittenCouture — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 05:00:00 -0800

I will be in Las Vegas in February and I must say that I am SO excited as I have never been there! What could be more fashionable than being in the know? Being in the know means that you connect with Urban Daddy to ensure that you know about the best shops, restaurants, parties and more that this city has to offer! If you have enjoyed what they provide for LA and NYC - then you know what you can expect for Las Vegas! If you would like to know, I have 5 invitations for this site which will provide goodies to your box that will take you beyond tourist status! If interested, email me but know that these invites will go fast!

Trendy Thursdays: Pump it Up

KittenCouture — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 05:00:00 -0800

I am in love with this Lizard Platform Sling by Oscar de la Renta, available at Vivre.com. I love the pop of lizard and the fact that it's a peep toe as well. In addition this shoe is ultra luxe with the black suede. There are so many places that this shoe could be worn from a cute pant suit, evening gown or more. Of course, these can totally be paired with a pair of denim and a tank top. I love finding shoes that are an interesting find that are begging to be included within your closet! This is a great way to show off your legs and as you check out Vivre.com, you'll find other splurge worthy pieces since you did so well shopping for others.