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An Accessories Expert who lives an Accessories Forward lifestyle.
March 12, 2013
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Treasure Tuesdays ~ Chanel the Jacket

You've said it all when you've said Chanel. It's an iconic house that has never gone out of style and I love that in this video (which is apart of a series known as, Inside Chanel), they have shared the essence and essential nature of The Jacket and it's importance to not only the brand but what it means in terms of the movement of women's bodies. This video shares its history from 1954 to today and includes Coco herself as well as Karl Lagerfeld and how he has maintained its classic elements while also extending how this piece is viewed.

January 24, 2013
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Trendy Thursdays: Classic NY Nights ~ The Red and The Black

Scenes from The Red and The Black

On Christmas Day, I went to see Les Miserables which I thought was phenomenal. Last night, I had the pleasure of seeing The Red and The Black as well as to peek behind the scenes and to talk with a number of the actors including the leads, Krista Adams Santilli (who plays Louise we have included this stylish leading lady previously on Kitten Lounge here and here) and Lucas Wells (who plays Julien who was also in Spring Awakening). This play is Deloss Brown's adaptation from Stendahl's famed, Le Rouge et Le Noir and represents the first third of the book (during my next travel schedule, I will have this book on hand as I want to know what happens next as this play actually gives a bit of a rundown within the last 2 minutes of the show and it's shocking). As it is post Napoleon and the Revolution, this play is about conflicts and tension when it comes to women, class, age, ambition, politics, religion, nobility, advancement and relationships. Love is a massive theme as it's not just about having it but what happens when it takes place when it shouldn't, when it isn't given back and when it is seen as the ultimate tool to make moves!

The Red and The Black was produced for Capolavori by Steve Acunto, Chairman of his family's company - the Italian Academy Foundation. He was drawn to this play due to its complex themes and how there was a depth of material that went beyond surface emotion. There are a number of lines within the play that stick in your mind and although they are repeated throughout, it takes on new meanings of understanding as the production reveals the intricacies of the characters.

After this show, having the opportunity to mingle with the cast and to share our reactions was an amazing experience. Lucas, who played a calculating/coy Julien, was super sweet in person. Being someone who has taken on a number of roles and also plays pop rock, I loved learning that he knows the importance of taking care of his hair and he is a fan of Bumble and Bumble - he knows how to maintain his curly locks. Krista was stunning in her post play outfit and really reflected on her role and the amount of conflict she has to share within seconds of one another. Watching her go through a range of emotions continues to build this tension even when it seems to be resolved at that particular moment.

The Red and The Black will continue to run through Feb 3rd and readers of Kitten Lounge, there is nothing more Classic NY then heading out to the theater! Tweet @KittenLounge (and make sure to follow) to tell us what Classic NY Nights means to you! We will select a winner at 3pm on Friday, Jan 25th. It's a great production that you and your guest will find yourself thinking about well after it has finished.

January 12, 2013
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Swoonfest Saturdays ~ We Love This Duo

The 70th Annual Golden Globes airs tomorrow on NBC at 8pm EST and of course, we'll be tweeting away about all of the fabulous red carpet fashion starting at 5pm EST as we follow along watching E!'s Live From the Red Carpet! In addition, we love that the femme, fabulous and funny duo - Tina Fey and Amy Poehler will be hosting this awards show! Who are you excited to see on the red carpet tomorrow and who are you looking to take a statue home! We'll also let you know who you're fave stars were wearing from the dazzling gowns to the accessories of course!

December 22, 2012
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Swoonfest Saturdays: Q & A Edition ~ Avon Representative Haizel McIntyre

As you know, I'm a paid Brand Ambassador for Avon and over this past year, I have shared a number of products and opinions (these views are my own and do not necessarilly reflect the views of Avon or its affiliates) with you that I have fallen in love with and have become apart of my staples! In addition, to loving the products, I am amazed at the dedication to quality product, the fact that amazing chemists, engineers etc work on them and that they test them to ensure that it does exactly what it says! I also love that this women's focused company not only gives us a number of optons within beauty, fashion and lifestyle but there are opportunities for autonomy - the Avon Ladies!

The iconic Avon Lady, went door to door and now she's able to add having an online presence and whether it's her main job or something that she does on the side, there are many reasons why these women come to work within this company! I recently interviewed NY based Avon Representative, Haizel McIntyre to find out more about her business, what drew her to it and why she does this (these questions were provided by me with answers from Haizel reflecting her experiences - her responses are her own and do not necessarilly reflect the views of Avon or its affiliates)!


What made you want to become an Avon Representative?

I became a representative because I needed the extra income without compromising my family. I have always worked multiple jobs but with three small children, I didn't want to be out if the house so often. Avon kind of fell on my lap.

How long have you been an Avon Representative?

I have had my Avon business for approximately four years.

Do you work with a team of people?

My children...lol. Just kidding, sort of. I don't have a team that I work with directly. Other than my Downline, I run my business on my own and because I do everything with my kids, I get them to help me out too.

What are some of your Avon products that you love and what products do those who purchase from you tend to enjoy getting?

I love all Avon products. I'm a walking billboard. But, if I have to choose, it would have to be the Anew skin care line and the makeup. Most of my customers enjoy the makeup and the items for children.

How is working within this business different then other businesses (whether it's the hours that you keep, being your own boss, etc)

In comparison to other direct sales businesses, Avon is great because it doesn't pressure you with a sales quota. You decide how successful you want to be. I love how simple and economical it is to start an Avon business and that I truly am my own boss without the stress of having to negotiate the time that I have for my family.

Have you recruited people to either work with you at Avon or to start their own Avon enterprises?

Absolutely! I currently have a Downline and now that I am done with school, I plan on working hard to reach title.

What is the typical day like for you when you are working on Avon products?

It depends on the week since a shipment week is different from a selling and recruiting week. A basic day could consist of checking, soliciting or packaging orders, calling customers to follow up in orders or schedule deliveries, packaging products and delivering products.

Many of us are familiar with the image of an "Avon Lady" who in the past made house calls on current and prospective clients, how is that different then how you reach out to people whethe it's via Twitter, your website etc

With the technology currently available and living in NY, the iconic Avon lady protocol of knocking on doors doesn't always work. I use Facebook, twitter and tumblr to promote my business with images, contests and incentives as well as providing a digital version of the brochure. Social media allows me to reach a clientele they may have otherwise been dormant to me. Social media is the initial approach and then it's my job to reel them in. Because it's Avon, my part is easy.

What would you tell someone that is starting out as a tip to encourage them to building their business?

What are your dreams? How determined are you to achieve your dreams? If your drive equals your ambition then GOYAA!(Get Off Your Anatomy...and take Action)

Do you have personal goals that you are looking to meet as an Avon Representative OR was there a goal that you had met?

Avon has allowed me to meet several goals. Most of the activities that I am able to offer my children have been due to Avon. Most recently I was able to purchase a second, used car for my family all cash thanks to Avon. My next goal is a down payment for a house with money left over to purchase new furniture. Just thinking about that goal makes me gitty and gets my Avon wheels turning.

December 21, 2012
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Fashionable Fridays ~ His & Hers Accessory Gifts

It's getting to be at about that time when you only have a few hours to get the gifts that you want others to enjoy! We have a number of accessories that are perfect for you and who you're gifting! Egard Watches is a fabulous series of limited edition watches that are perfect to bring his look together. In addition, he could use fabulous cufflinks and why not have white and black diamonds on them to ensure that he's snazzy from Luisaviaroma. Of course when it comes to her (and what you may think of sending my for Christmas) are these fabulous Yves Saint Laurent Blue Tribtoo stunning metallic blue shoes! These will dress any jeans and simple looks. In addition, we're loving Ramiro Encizo's Petit Noor Tote in this neon cherry wash that allows bright pink to mix in with the neutral tones of this bag.

July 19, 2012
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Trendy Thursdays: London 2012 Olympics ~ Bold Hues Hit the Olympics

Suitsupply, for the third year in a row, will be dressing the Dutch Olympic and Paralympic team and their entourage! Their head designer, Murray Coetzee designed the above four looks which we will see next week during the opening ceremony. There is a nod within its style to iconic English sports and being trimmed by the colors of the Dutch flag. How cute is the oversized tulip just to remind you that this is the fkower of the dutch! How can you not love the tennis blazers and cricket cable knits. If you check out other portions of this collection which can be purchased, there are badges decorated with British landmarks.

In addition to loving the looks and wanting the trench coat! I would definitely suggest these fun hues if you're looking to rock a little orange and blue while watching the Olympics Opening Ceremony next week. As you know, I'm a huge fan of all shades Butter London and on my other days, Essie as these bring in both of the hues that these Olympians are wearing for their country.

May 12, 2012
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Swoonfest Saturdays ~ Mother's Day Eve

Tomorrow is Mother's Day! Whether you're a mom, a mom figure or are celebrating your mom as I am - Happy Mother's Day. One of my ambassadorships rings very true to me above and beyond the product offerings! I love that Avon has a commitment to women! Some of you may know that Avon was one of the first businesses out there that allowed women to work and create money for themselves as well as to allow women to sell in a way that works for them. As a Brand Ambassador, it is my duty and honor to share products that I love with those that I meet, to be apart fo special events such as the dinner that I hosted and to just let you know that it's an amazing product in general that plays well with whatever it is that you do! In addition, I love that whether you're the traditional Brand Representative that uses your brochures or those that do this online via their website or Facebook page - you rock! Many of the Avon Brand Representatives are mom's or mom figures and to you and to everyone that uses Avon or is outside of this community, have an amazing Mother's Day!

April 14, 2012
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Swoonfest Saturdays: Events ~ Bob Marley Movie & Cedella

Earlier this week, right after N Natori's preview event, I went to Meet at the Apartment to see a special preview of Bob Marley the Movie thanks to Amy Chandra, Editor in Chief of Midtown Girl and founder of Socialista New York! This movie is available in select theaters on April 20th, On Demand as well as on Facebook! This event oozed Jamaican elements as we munched on Beef Patties, Chicken Patties, Veggie Patties, Cod Fritters and Jerk Chicken by Miss Lilys. I also loved the fun tote bag, tee (from Cedella's line) as well as cosmetic case. This event gave us a peek into Bob Marley's life and the event allowed us to also see Cedella Marley (daughter of Bob Marley) via Skype to talk about her father's legacy, his influence on fashion as well as her clothing line which pays tribute to The Wailers, has fun bikinis and she will also dress the men's and women's Jamaican Track and Field Teams as well during this Olympics!

August 10, 2011
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Wearable Wednesdays: His Style ~ Rocks My Look

It's not a shock that men and women can rock one another's look and it's not always about androgyny. Menswear is popular in women's looks and there are a number of items in women's that can be worn by a man. My boyfriend loves rocking my beauty product - shower gels, facial scrubs and more and yet he's still as manly as you can imagine. Today I have the left side of the spread focused on a men's basic look in outerwear, women is on the right and in the middle goodies to share! I love the his and her look and with the rain that we received yesterday, I got to think about rocking trench's by Burberry and fab shoes by Cole Haan. I could so see Paul and I walking in Soho between my brand meetings wearing this classic look with well worn fab shoes that have a brownish/grey look to it. Of course, the cutest thing ever is that we can share the accessories! Paul loves carrying my totes when they're too heavy and this Fendi one can go either way and is super luxe. I love my scarves and am never without one as the weather gets closer to the fall. Love Quotes is phenom and when we're done sharing a cigar and a bevvie, I can wrap him up in it to take a pic! I do love his and her looks!

March 24, 2011
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Trendy Thursdays ~ Violet Icon

To say that Elizabeth Taylor could be summed up as a Style Icon would not describe her. Being a woman who acted in a number of movies such as Cleopatra (in my top 5 and my sister feels was in a tie with) and The Taming of the Shrew, she was also stunning, gorgeous, vivacious - a Scarlett O'Hara type come to life. In her time, she was loved by many and yet this British born actress who passed away yesterday morning, was also an activist against the fight against AIDS and as a humanitarian, simply loved people and found the beauty in everyone. To say that it's a loss to lose one of my (and many other) style icons (others include Audrey Hepburn and many of the classic 30's and 40's actresses) simply doesn't light a candle on her poise and grace. We don't normally talk about the passing of others on Kitten Lounge but when someone embodies so much of what I can appreciate and respect, you have to take more than a moment to realize the magnitude of light that she provided in her 79 years.

March 08, 2011
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Treasure Tuesdays ~ International Women's Day

I'm all about everyone pushing it to the next level and although this month is in the support of women, today is International Women's Day. This global day celebrates women who were making advances in every category in terms of social, political and economical areas. Everyone that is out there today whether you work at a company or run your own is doing something to add to this creative scope. Throughout the day, if you're following me @Cocoabebe, you'll see me shout out women who I know who are doing amazing things and that you should be following with the hashtag #KLIWD. Of course at Kitten Lounge, I had to share my love and support for those in fashion so today's spread is dedicated to all those women who kick booty everyday and make their voice heard so that the next little girl who wants to be whatever can and will! Above are designers and CEO's of brands that I admire. I have either met them, work closely with their team or have had tweetversations with them! With such trailblazers as Nicole Miller (ensures that we look modern and are always on another level - she knows her style), Nancy Gonzalez (python accessory designer who is always on trend and is never afraid of color), JImmy Choo (Tamara Mellon knows how to create a company and keep women buzzing about the fabulous brand and doing it all in stilettos) and Ranjana Khan (creating fab over the top pieces that I drool over everytime I am in Bergdorf Goodman we're not only in amazing fashion hands but we know that we can make our mark and see it coming and going!

January 07, 2011
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Fashionable Fridays ~ It's a Habitat

As some of you may know, once upon a time ago I worked at Anthropologie. What I loved about working with them was the fact that they curated a number of fab apparel lines, with accessories, home goods and more! But it wasn't just the fact that you were able to have so many items together but that we were able to merchandise everything so that it told a series of stories. You could literally spend a lot of time within this store and whether you enjoyed seeing the one in Philly, Rockefeller Center and more - there are always different set ups in each store which make it unique! With that said, this concept has been rolled out to the next level!

A few weeks ago, owner, Kenny Gee (former House Beautiful Magazine Editor) launched his much anticipated store called The Habitat Shop which is located in Chelsea and is 3000 sq ft with home decor, furnishings, lighting, apparel, jewelry, pet supplies and apparel for women and children. With weekly shipments, there is always something that you'll find that may not have been there before! Now many of you know that I adore wearing Eva Varro and have asked where you can get it, Kenny has a great eye for detail and has a number of fab pieces from one of my fave designers! It's always fun to support a local independent shop and I'm sure Kenny would love to meet you. Above are Slide images of this boutique.

The Habitat Shop

143 W. 19th Street (Btwn 6th/7th Aves)

NY, NY

T: 212-206-7320

September 13, 2010
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Mingling Mondays: Day 4 Spring 2011 ~ Custo Barcelona

Yesterday's shows continued to be as entertaining as the day started and Custo Barcelona was filled with color and mens and women's looks. These would definitely be pieces that would be fun to wear on a night out in South Beach or some tropical area but what I loved the most was the footwear! Whether it was cool sneakers for guys or sky heels - this was the best portion of this line! Check out some of my favorite looks and for more, check out Elle.com

July 14, 2010
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Wearable Wednesdays ~ Let Me Style You For the Beach

I am super excited about the fact that next week Social Diva has a fun event that I will be styling at Sol de Ibiza on July 21st at their boutique! Above is just a sample of some of the items that will be there and yes they have great items for men, women and kids! We still have plenty of time to hit the beach so if you have yet to RSVP, I hope to see you there! In addition, there will be nibbles, bevies, the styling tips from myself and a Lifestyle Consultant, Dale Sudakoff. This is the perfect Social Diva event so if you have yet to come out to an event, this is a great one to attend and you'll receive 15% off of your purchases as well.

RSVP to Sol de Diva Shopping and Styling Event ~ Wed July 21st 6:30 - 9:30pm

Sol de Ibiza

52 Greene St

NY, NY

Styling by Lifestyle Consultant by and of course, Me!

June 22, 2010
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Treasure Tuesdays ~ Rock Eugenia Kim

Eugenia Kim's sample sale starts today and will go through Friday! In addition to women's hats, their will be accessories as well as men's items that are 50 - 75% off as there will be runway pieces, samples and one of a kind items as well. Eugenia will also be there to design and trim 100 one of a kind straw hats for this sale! This is definitely a treat and interestingly enough, I went to an event yesterday where I received one of her hats and I am beyond thrilled to have it! The sale is also online so visit the link to see what's available and to see where the sale is being held!

April 16, 2010
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Fashionable Fridays ~ And Now a Few Words From Iman

Last night was an amazing evening with Iman! To a select group of bloggers, she walked us through her cosmetic collection and answered our questions! Now today is not a beauty post per se but I loved her concept that her line is about great minimal coverage that doesn't hide our fab hues, it evens out our skin tone to one color and most importantly her line is not about focusing on people of color but skins of color. We all have various tones and hues and to know that her line has at least 14 shades is AMAZING. I was so excited to see various writers who had a difficult time finding their shade, find it yesterday and the look that they had was priceless. Sitting so close to Iman was truly an amazing experience as she is absolutely gorgeous but even she shared that "Iman doesn't look like Iman" and that her focus was to create a line at a reasonable price point, that was available at various drugstore retailers, with testers and to even send her makeup team to these locations to show people how amazing the line is and easy to use. Enjoy hearing a few words from this serious business woman and begin thinking of ways that you can enhance you while not covering up the best elements of yourself! PS - her stacked bangles were amazing and once I receive pictures from this night you will see Iman and I together as well as other goodies and I will let you know how easy it was for me to work with the products!

December 09, 2009
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Wearable Wednesdays ~ Coach For the Holidays & Beyond

I can't believe that we're in the last month of the year and yet I'm still thinking about what I should get friends and family while I'm out and about or looking at the Holiday Gift Guide! But today is a huge day as we're apart of Holiday Blog-a-Day. Not only are we presenting great items that are perfect for the holiday season, but I'm showing you how they can be worn and of course, we're going to give a bag away as well! So it's a good day for everyone involved! Below are three of my favorite looks that work well with my top 3 choices in bags.

THE LIFE OF THE PARTY

This is for all those that are looking to go to a classic party after work or during the weekend. I'm a huge fan of a cute black little number and then popping in color wherever I can. The Christina dress by Coco Bourgeoisie is not only the perfect black dress but has the pop of golden color that's perfect for any evening on the town! This is the essential dress that combines the ladies who lunch with the woman whose eye is the focus of the party. The Swarovski Crystal Amethyst earrings add a little whimsy with the entire outfit. But I love that the Op Art Layered Darcy Clutch by Coach has the cute fringe and brings such a sweet look to a dramatic outfit that has sheerful playfulness to it. This is something that will turn heads and with a pair of amazing heels, you're a photo op waiting to happen!

WORKING IT IN STYLE

I may go to a lot of functions but when I'm not, I'm all about staying chic and being warm when I'm working in Starbucks, going to Editors meetings and more. I kid you not if black and grey were taken out of my color scheme I wouldn't know what to wear. Although I could go completely grey, how about adding pops of unexpected color like blue! The Audrey Grey Tote is such a cute little bag and I love the strap with all of the hardware with the fab antiqued effect. It's a fun bag to pair with leggings, a cozy sweater and a pair of over the knee boots! But you know that I can't stop there simple doesn't mean that you can't have a fun look! First off this sweater begs for something on the wrists and this hand crocheted beaded bracelet is the perfect compliment! Same Sky has gorgeous beaded pieces that come in various shades and not only make you look fab from day to night but it works to support the women in African villages by allowing them to work and to make money to feed their families - it's social good at its best. You know I love keeping it natural and when it comes to my favorite stone, make mine agate! These raw Blue Agate pendants by Cynthia Rybakoff are so edgy with pops of charm that they are the perfect way to top off your look no matter where you're going or heading to. Nepali By TDM Designs scarves a nice item to wrap up in or to tie around the arms of your bag as you're running in and out. Once again, your supporting women weavers of the country and also supporting their craftsmanship! Simple, classic and yet you look like you came off a magazine.

THE ESSENTIALS ON YOUR LIST

Now this spread is an ode to my go to looks! You must have an awesome bag that works well with you, can carry all of your necessities and references your mood. The Sabrina Satchel in yellow will come in handy when all we see is grey and white outside - you'll definitely stand out! In addition, you must have a pair of boots and I am a fan of anthing over the knee - this pair from Tory Burch is AMAZING. Of course you have to have a bracelet - for me make it chunky and the ring is an absolute essential - be the conversation piece in order to generate conversation!

Coach has a variety of items that are perfect for gifting and are great to build your closet as well! Check out their collection for the holiday season and stay tuned to my tweets @cocoabebe to find out how one of these items can be yours! We will give a Coach bag away on Dec 24th to those who leave a reply about how they like to accessorize their bag. Do you have to choose the perfect wallet, do you change your key fob? One winner will be randomly selected the morning of Christmas Eve so get your answers up!

***UPDATE*** Congratulations Molly M! Send us an email so that we can send you your Coach bag! Happy Holidays and thanks to everyone that participated. Our contest if officially closed.

November 08, 2009
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Snazzy Sundays ~ Women in Need

Since 1983, Women in Need has assisted homeless families by ensuring that they have housing. Last week a group of bloggers were brought in to preview homes that were made by various notables for the Home for the Holidays Campaign within the fashion and entertainment industries including Vera Wang, Isaac Mizrahi, Sean Combs, Debra Messing and more. Once these homes were unveiled here, they were placed within Saks windows here in NYC from Nov 5th - Nov 9th (if you're in the area today and looking to see them in person, definitely check it out) to be auctioned in order to assist the organization to continue working with families not only as a means to have a place to live but to move forward with their goals for the future through stable housing, education and more.

The depth of the program and the continuing services that WIN provides is astounding. From the beginning of being included within the program to the point where many families receive transitional or permanent residences, they can receive valuable information on employment training/placement, HIV/AIDS prevention, domestic violence prevention and more. Learn more about the organization and how you can help by visiting Charity Buzz, you can see the houses that were made and also put in a bid for one of the houses as well. Above is a video from the CEO and Founder Bonnie Stone, and a few designers that participated in this project!

December 05, 2008
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Fashionable Fridays: 302 Designs Is The Answer to the Great Tee

I love when you can have a great tee and there are so many reasons to embrace it! 302 Designs is sweatshop free, organic and is perfect for men and women. I love the designs of this shirt and feel that it is a great way to have casual comfort that is also green friendly at the same time. Most of all, I enjoy that it is tag free! Take some time to check out the amazing designs and considering that the holiday season is upon us, it is very wallet friendly as well.

October 22, 2008
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Wearable Wednesday: Get Your Vote In

I love it! Blume is known for the fact that they have customized items for women, men, babies and even your four legged friends! They have so many styles that are perfect to wear - all you need to do is decide what name you want to put on the apparel! What has really caught my eye is their election collection. I think they are so cute and they have great pieces for Republicans, Democrats and Independents - what's not to like. In addition to the vote you will give on Nov 4th, you can vote on their site about the shirts (what I also love is that these 3 images can be placed n various shirts). Take some time to check out the site and to order your Election Collection items and then of course, get some items that will be perfect for gifting as well.

October 09, 2008
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Trendy Thursdays: Beam Brings You Into the Daylight

I have to say that one of the things that I love most about Fashion Week above and beyond the shows is that it's a time when people come together to see people you run past daily or who you only talk to via emails. It's also a time when you have the opportunity to meet others through people that you already know. This can take place at shows, in the tents, parties and so much more. Simply put, it's a great way to relationship build!

Well, the night before Fashion Week, Total Beauty kicked off this week of events by throwing a party and via Sam from Dark PR, I had the pleasure of meeting Andrea and Liza Young, the Brazilian sister duo that is behind New York's prominent, Beam Laser Spa (1841 Broadway Suite 806). The night that I met them, I knew that not only did they look adorable but I was definitely intrigued to learn more about the services that were available at this spa. Fortunately, we were able to meet again and I settled on a date and time to not only have an appointment but to learn about the spa!

Trust me when I say that I was a little nervous to have my appointment. Although the idea of never having to shave under my arms again seemed like a dream, the idea of having a laser on me was a little too Goldfinger for my taste. But my apprehension was calmed by being greeted by Liza who has such a great calm personality, I love that she chatted and explained my forms and one look in the office makes you feel a bit of Zen. Andrea has such an amazing personality and beyond having a bubbly personality, knowing that she is a molecular biologist with an MBA and has worked within the hair removal industry for many years, made me feel that she was knowledgeable about various techniques and had seen the evolution of them.

My initial concern was the obvious - pain, I love how she explained that in areas that had less hair, you wouldn't feel as strong of a sensation as denser areas. In fact, the sensation would be temporary. Seeing her demo the laser and watching the puffs of air that came out that cooled the areas that had received the laser was very calming. But another issue that still remained was that I had always heard that African Americans were not able to have this treatment or that many people felt it simply wasn't for them. Even my mom was shocked that I had received this treatment as she explained that back in the 70's she had had laser treatment in her face and that later her dermatologist had explained that it wasn't for women of color. In fact when Googling on various message boards, I found this response along with warnings of scars and spots appearing on the skin as a huge warning against doing this.

Andrea's knowledge and answer to this question was shocking to hear. In spas that have these laser treatments, those who are olive to darker skinned should find out what kind of wavelength is used in terms of the procedure. Those that are darker need to make sure that their facilities have a dual laser machine which has an Alexandrite and a Yag wave. The YAG wave is for those with darker skin and although it penetrates deeper into the skin layer bypassing the skin color, it has a slightly reduced effect that still removes the hair without lightening our color. I found this amazing and was pleased to know that laser treatments could be an option for all skin tones.

Andrea explained everything, answered questions and continued to make me comfortable. Now for those who are thinking of getting this treatment, they offer a free consultation where they do a patch test. This is where you choose a small area and they do the procedure so that you can have a sample. In many cases, over 90% of those who do the consultation, come back to actually get it done. With all this knowledge and hearing this percentage, I was ready.

Prior to this, I was not able to shave about a day or two before coming in and (to my grossed out dismay) I didn't have deodarent on. Since I was doing my underarms, Andrea, shaved the arms to make sure it was clean, drew the area that would be treated with a white pencil and then used the laser. This procedure probably only took 10 mins total. At first the sensation of feeling the beam and then the cold air on my arms just felt different as you don't usually have this on you; however, when it got to the denser areas, there was slight discomfort. I love that she guaged my reactions and when I needed a slight breather she stopped. She continued to chat with me and you were able to continue. When it was over, aloe was placed under my arms.

I was shocked that it was over so quickly and after she examined my arms, she said that it didn't look aggravated. I felt a slight discomfort but absolutely nothing major. Now when you sign up you know that you will have to do somewhere between 6 - 8 treatments and they are spaced out by 6 weeks. Each time the hairs are growing in less and you can see the difference. In fact, within 3 weeks, both sisters said that I would notice hairs under my arms but that they would literally fall out. Although I am not a fan of stray hairs, the idea that I am one step closer to not having to shave is AMAZING.

When I got home, I checked under my arms and each day (as this took place on Sun) I am amazed that I haven't really seen anything! They offer so many services and I would start with doing your underarms. Because this is such a new thing for me and I have my next treatment in Nov, I will keep you guys up to date on how everything is going. Three weeks from now (actually from this past Sun), I will let you know if I see any hairs. The sisters reminded me that if I have hairs that are growing in by then and have not fallen out, they would take away the stray hairs at no cost.

The care they take from the time they walk in the door to when you leave is amazing and being comfortable is half the battle! Beam Laser Spa is definitely a place that I will refer to my friends and if you guys go there, you have to let me know your thoughts!

June 27, 2008
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Fashionable Fridays ~ I'm All About Nobis

MaxieWhen something is cute, it has to be shared and Nobis has a cute line that is perfect for men and women - which is generally a rare find. Fortunately, Nobis has a great look for those that are looking to enhance their metro chic and when you want to add more to your look, you need to look at their apparel as well! This hat, known as the Maxie, is a grey newsie that has cute little details! I love that under the brim there is a bit of plaid and around the hat there are little loops that pick up this plaid as well. Nothing is better than wearing something that is seen as being a little masculine and then being femmed up with little details. I love the logo of the Nobis which is placed as a button on the side. This is so the look you can rock when you're having a great hair day or when you simply need to have something to cover a do that you would rather not have to deal with today. How cute is this when you're heading out for a game, taking a walk with your sig other or you're just out and about with your sunglasses. Either way Nobis has a great collection and one that we should all embrace no matter what our look!

June 05, 2008
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Trendy Thursdays ~ Quattro Women

SqFor the past 2 or 3 years, I have to admit that I have been a huge fan of the Schick Quattro! It may have had to do something with the fact that my sister and I were promo models for a marketing firm and we went all over the city and Connecticut spreading knowledge and love for this razor. At first, I must admit that I thought that the fact that it was a pink beauty product - it was the primary selling point of this razor. But after that summer, I grew to love the four blades that ensures your super soft wherever you shave! I always have this hanging in my shower and ready to use and one if always in my bag for emergencies as well. Since being introduced to this razor, I have yet to put it down and anytime that I am running low, I always have another easy to change head (note that easy to change doesn't mean that the head falls off every time you use it!). This sleek razor is a must for my beauty prep and it has yet to make me have to switch to another brand pr style. Take some time to check out the site to learn more in depth facts about this razor and why you may feel the same as I do! Check out their fun site - Quattro For Women!

May 28, 2008
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Wearable Wednesdays ~ Don't Be Too Sure

5ft2in_2I love that we live in an age where many rules of fashion are meant to be broken and what we took to be truths at the time, are being reinvented. Yes, it is true that in fashion we are all learning new tricks and many of us that may have always been able to wear something are just coming into the realization that we can wear a number of styles, colors and much more.

The other day as I was on Facebook, I happened to learn about a Petite Fashionista  Show that will take place in Canada. Christa Jean is a Petite Stylist and has put together this show with tickets still available It's aim is to showcase the beauty of models that are 5'4" and under. In addition to being intrigued by this event, I came across one of the sponsors - 5ft2in. This fabulous company makes pants for women within this height range! In addition as I talked to the designer, Sunny, she was so excited to show me her most popular pant style! This capri pant is not only popular but she definitely wanted to let me know that it is a complete and total myth that petite women are unable to wear this length of pant. I think that those who strive to focus their efforts on certain demographics of women that may have a harder time in shopping are absolutely amazing and should be commended without a doubt! Take a peek at her site and contact her directly if you are in need of having a pair made for you or someone that you know. I am always a fan of attainable fashion and love presenting those that make that dream a reality for women everyday!


February 26, 2008
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Treasure Tuesdays ~ We Love Beads

HandmadehandmadeYou know that I am a fan of using beads and stones, this is why I love making my jewelry so when I saw the super cute pieces from Girlie Girl Jewelry Studio, I had to share with you. I love handmade pieces and definitely think that these are items that should be in your wardrobe! These savvy and stylish women utilize tones of mossy green and shiny red apple with pops of other natural tones. Rhyolite and Apple Jasper work together with lampwork beads to make this cute necklace. To add a bit more of bling, there are Swarovski Crystals that separate each stone from one another. This is perfect to pair with denim and cute dresses since it is 25" long. Of course don't be afraid to layer a charm necklace in with this. Support these fabulously indie women in California who make the cutest handmade pieces. For more looks that are so you - check out Girlie Girl Jewelry Studio.


Kimmie/KL As Seen On

05.01.13; Click to see Kimmie on DC's ABC 7/Ch 8 ~ Let's Talk Live Talking Accessories & Celeb Mom Style right before Mother's Day!

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