Hydrating Skincare on a Budget

The cold months are upon us and we all need more hydration to keep our skin looking healthy. This moisturizing duo by Murad is perfect for day time use, and most suited for those with normal to dry skin. The Hydro Dynamic Ultimate Moisture cream (shown here in the large jar) is a very rich and fresh, almost sweet smelling cream. I noticed a difference in the moisture level of my skin, when I did not use it, so it does work. Added benefits of this product are that it improves texture and tone, and is great for sensitive skin.

In the small jar, the Hydro Dynamic Ultimate Moisture for eyes is great for firmness and wrinkle control.

Both of these products provide results lasting up to 8 hours. Results will vary, however, so it is best to try it out for yourself. The cute packaging, and carrying case make this a perfect gift or party favor.

Murad Hydrate for Hope Set

New Fall Fashion

Gabriela Moya Fall/Winter 2012

Philippe Matignon Fall/Winter 2012/2013

Ironing with Rowenta

Ironing can be such a chore and when you are in a bind for time in the morning, every precious minute you can save is so important. Rowenta has a powerful line if irons that can suit your needs, weather you just iron on occasion to make your delicate blouses look flowing and gorgeous, or even if you iron your husband's work clothes every day, like I do.

I use the Rowenta Focus for my daily needs. Check out this chart (click to enlarge) to see which product is right for you:

Learn more at www.rowentausa.com

Hotheads - Heat Free Hair Drying

If you live in an area where the weather is usually humid, or where it rains a lot, you know how hard it is to keep your curls under control. Frizz is a secret daily battle for you, and you just want it to go away! The Hand Dry Hair Towel  and The Hand Dry Hair Glove can be your new solution for gentle drying that controls this annoying problem.

When you get out of the shower you can wrap your head and hair with the the Hand Dry Towel to ring out excess water. Leave your hair in the towel for a few minutes, then unwrap. Gently comb your hair with a wide tooth comb, starting from the tips, going up to the root, then put on the Hand Dry Gloves. The gloves give you the dexterity you need to scrunch or maneuver your hair any way you please. You can also apply your product before using the gloves, and continue to scrunch your hair up toward the root, for a drying effect, in place of using a hair dryer and diffuser combination. This is great for giving your hair a break from damaging daily heat effects.

Achieve the hair style you desire this Fall and coming Winter season, with Hotheads Hand Dry products.

Relastin Skin Revitalizer Review

Taking just a few minutes out of your routine to care for your skin can do wonders for your appearance. Including a facial cream into your beauty regimen will give you more plush skin and a coveted glow that all women want.

This is a glorious and fresh cream that is not too heavy. It can be used in the morning, or in the evening. I preferred to use it in the morning after I was finished in the shower and after I washed my face. It does not leave an oily after residue, so it would be nice to use for normal or combination skin. If you have very dry skin,  you may want to try the Relastin Ultra Emollient cream. However, the fact that the Relastin Skin Revitalizer cream is light, is what drew me to it, and would get me to continue to use it. I wear makeup almost every day, and if a product is too oily or greasy feeling, it does not help my makeup to stay looking fresh, and shine free. The Skin Revitalizer, contains the Zinc Firming Complex, which truly helps your skin to feel rejuvenated, and more youthful.

To learn more, visit www.relastin.com

A Great Bra for your Favorite Sexy Tops

Black Plunge Padded V Bra sold at AMIClubwear

Ladies, a plunge bra is a must have for your wardrobe. The straps are adjustable and removable, so you can use just one strap, attached from one cup to the other, around the neck, to wear under neath your favorite sexy halter. For those tops you thought you couldn't wear unless you had a strapless bra, this is a great alternative. It is also easy to care for, and sits flush up against your rib cage, so have no fear with this purchase. Please note that this bra is suited best for women with more rounded breasts, that do not or have minimal age related sagging. If you have larger or more mature breasts, you will need a bra with more support, and/or padding.

Alejandra G. Interview - Hot New Shoes!

Alejandra G. recently launched a new, self titled, luxury shoe line. It is so bold and is suited for the most daring individuals. What girl doesn't like new shoes?

Nanette

Here are a few questions that I had for the creative designer, Alejandra:

1. What type of woman wears Alejandra G. shoes?

The type of  woman who wears AlejandraG’s is a woman who wants  to stand out , a woman who knows that accessories are the standout item of her outfit.. Someone who is trendy confident in her style and wants to stand out. Ag makes her outfit a statement. 

2. What was one of your latest inspirations for one of your designs? 

"I don’t mean to sound trite, I am inspired by everything around me. I look at the European runways, a sunset, what other girls are wearing, etc. I love mixing up textures, color blocking, fringe, mixing up materials."

3. What are your favorite materials to work with? 

"I love all materials, leathers, skins, rhinestones, stones, metals, etc."

4. What inspired you to become a shoe designer?

"I have always have had a passion for  fashion.  I own over 250 pairs of shoes in closet. They range in price so for me it is about the style.  I  saw a niche for the style I am creating which is different and fresh and a departure  from what most anyone else is doing now."

5. What can we expect from you in the near future?

"I am going to keep doing a lot of material blending and something very fresh and I will soon be launching a line of  accessories, handbags and men's shoes."

I wish Alejandra much success in her new endeavors, and cannot wait to see what she will come up with next.

So many shoes, so little time...

Beautiful Sparkling and Glamorous Boots

If this isn't your first Rodeo, you should know, when a woman goes out on the town in the West, she is going to show off and glam it up with eye catching designs and pizazz. Kay's Gold Mine offers just that type of eye-catching look, with her sparkling embroidered boots.

These sexy boots feature intricate stitching, and spectacularly placed sequins to highlight your beautiful feet. Weather you are wearing them with a dress, or jeans, you're sure to be a show stopper.

The boots are lined with a soft faux fur, but allows for circulation. There is minimal rubbing around the toes and sides of the feet, even after walking for hours.

Contact Mrs. Ezell to learn more about prices and sizing, and to buy yourself a pair of these unique and feminine boots!

Shoe Lovers Desire Schutz!

Schutz shoes are now available at stores such as Shopbop and BHLDN! Schutz is a very new brand and is spreading like wild fire all over the internet. Schutz brand shoes are made in Brazil with flagship stores in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Click on the links to see more styles!

Drop the Drama and Be Happy for Once

Have you been in a rut in your relationship lately? Does it seem like everything you do causes even more problems and stress? Let go of all of that drama and learn to love again with help from these great books:

I Married You, Not Your Family and Nine Other Relationship Myths That Will Ruin Your Marriage by Linda Mintle, PhD, has a very long title but the help that you will attain by reading this book comes quick. This book is easy to read and is Christian based, which is very important to me. It is not going to push you in the wrong direction and make things worse. Included is advice on how to be freed from guilt, how to reconnect with your spouse, how to empower your spouse and also how to show empathy. You will learn healthy marriage strategies, as well as unhealthy behaviors, and so many other valuable lessons and tips to help make your relationship better. I'll admit, I read chapter 7 entitled "Growing Apart" first, due to some problems in my own marriage, but after I read that, I couldn't put the book down. Another one of my favorite chapters is chapter 10, entitled "Infidelity". If there is one book you read this year about marriages, I suggest it be this one.

A very curious and interesting thing happened to me during these hard times in my life, a few months ago, when I was coping with problems in my marriage. When I was reading the book mentioned above, I came across The Case for Falling in Love: Why We Can't Master the Madness of Love -- and Why That's the Best Part, by Mari Ruti, PhD. It interestingly and similarly has "myths and truths" listed throughout the chapters. So, I thought "how funny..." maybe I was meant to read this book as well, and at the same time! One of the things it teaches us is that men and women are really not all that different, and want the same basic things out of life." "Ruti guides women toward emotionally healthy dating practices, non-combative (yet empowering) attitudes toward dating and the opposite sex, and the preservation of the beauty, mystery and nuance of classic love and romance." Chapter 7, entitled "It's All About The Thing," discusses "our sense of wholeness" and why we are consistently trying to find a perfect substitute for it, weather it be things we do to make ourselves happy, to making it that special someone in our lives. This is the one chapter that I suggest you should read in depth, if you get a hold of this spectacular book.

I have learned so much from these two books so I wanted to share them with you, and hope you find the time to pick up copies, learn something, and be enlightened. Best wishes!

Nancy Griffin Photo Cards and Services

If you have ever wanted to give a gift with a meaningful and heartfelt touch, then Nancy Griffin Photo Cards are for you. Her personalized cards with beautiful photography set that specific mood you are trying to achieve, and will be cherished for years to come. They are great for scrapbooks, and themed parties as well. From categories such as Floral, Animals and Pets, Places around the World, Crosses, and more, you will find something that speaks to you. Please visit the website for more details.

Nancy Griffin also offers spectacular gift wrapping services with 25 years of experience in home and studio gift wrap. She designs and hand crafts one of a kind designer pumpkins for Fall, as well as fresh flower arrangements. She also designs gardens for an eye catching and fresh facade for your home, that you so desire.

Here are some beautiful examples of her work (click to enlarge):

A Short Biography on Mrs. Griffin:

"Early in life, I recognized my artistic nature. It influenced everything I did, even school projects. As an art history student, I trained my eye in composition and continued this disciplined study in my photography. I was always the one taking photos of family and friends, but it was my travel photos that garnered the most attention. These photos presented a business opportunity, and I began to make photo cards.

I am not new to the business or art worlds. I worked in fashion and art for many years, six of them spent in Rome and New York. Upon returning to Texas, I started my own high-end Christmas ornament business that later evolved into a 20-year-old gift-wrap and party decorating business. Of course, I photographed everything. However, traveling and photography became my passions and thus the photo card business was begun.

Now, these photo cards can be purchased and sent to friends on any occasion, since they are blank inside—birthday, sympathy, graduation, or just to say hello. A personalized message with a photo meant to inspire will make a meaningful and unique keepsake for loved ones. I am also happy to make these cards with a photo of your choice. Art is a gift to enjoy!"

You can place orders by telephone at 832-722-7661.

Email: nancygriffinartist@gmail.com

ilaments Jewelry

ilaments Vida Muerte Pink Skull Earrings featured in the Latina Fashion, Lifestyle and Beauty Bloggers group photos, and in InStyle this month.

ClaudiaE Spring 2011 Collection

Take in a breath of fresh air while wearing these new pieces by ClaudiaE for the season. Her latest collection portrays glimpses from the 70s with her jumpsuits, bright colors, stripes, and flowing beautiful fabrics. The shapes are feminine and flattering, and the prints are interesting and eye catching. This collection is for the daring and bold woman that wants to make a statement this Spring.

For ordering and contact information, click over to the ClaudiaE website.

Solutions for Swim Season

Kaelyn Serra for Perfect Tan Bikini 

Problem: I hate tan lines, especially on my shoulders!

Solution: The Perfect Tan Bikini features signature removable neck and back straps, a secure adhesive top and matching bottoms. Here is how it works: The molded cups of the top have special strips of adhesive that are reusable. The strips are reactivated with the heat of your body or the sun. Just make sure to have very clean and dry skin, with no lotions or oils so the cups will stay in place. You can swim with this bikini and it is hand washable. Each bikini comes with an instruction booklet to help you keep your Perfect Tan bikini in optimal condition. See the manufacturer's website for more details on sizing and cup sizes. You can purchase Perfect Tan Bikini lines at Global Trends.

Problem: I want to extend my tan, on days that I don't lay out.

Solution: Fake Bake Body Polish and Fake Bake Sunless & Skinny sunless tanning products.

Start off by using the soap free body polish in the shower. This fresh scented exfoliator gently buffs away dead skin cells, keeping your skin soft and smooth, and allowing for a more even tan, indoors and out.

At the end of your long day, smooth on Sunless & Skinny for smooth, tightened skin and supple texture. In the morning, rinse off, and you are set.

The color results with Sunless & Skinny is slightly more orange than the original Fake Bake Self Tanning Lotion, but still beautiful. Buy the lotion based on your natural skin tone, similar to searching for foundation shades for your face.

Problem: After I swim or lay out, I want an easy way to make my hair look managed, smooth, but I don't want it to look like I spent hours in front of my vanity.

Solution: Rinse your hair well after swimming with lukewarm or cool water, to ensure all chlorine or salt water is out. Then try CURLS Quenched Curls Organic Moisturizer. This amazing product works on all hair types, and textures, but is great for curly hair. It also works as a second day curl refresher, which saves you time!

I am getting excited about bikini season, and I hope you are too. If you have any summer swimwear, skin or hair questions for me, please send me an email or send me a message on Facebook.

Fun New Fashion Line by Sofia Vergara

"The launch of a new lifestyle collection by renowned actress Sofia Vergara was announced recently. Sold exclusively through Kmart, the collection will embody the "Modern Family" star's signature style of glamour and sexiness with an air of approachability."


"The collection, which will include sportswear, dresses, handbags, jewelry, and footwear, is designed to offer young, fashion-conscious women the trend-right must-haves of each season, including figure flattering styles and fashion-forward prints and patterns that easily transition from day to night. Reflecting Sofia's unique fashion sensibilities, the brand is a modern and fresh approach to everyday style.  Kmart will be the exclusive provider and marketer in the United States for all Sofia Vergara apparel, accessories and other merchandise, available at over 800 Kmart stores nationwide and Kmart.com beginning fall 2011."

"I am thrilled to be introducing the Sofia Vergara brand with Kmart!" said Sofia Vergara.  "I wanted to work with a national retailer that would truly value a collection that provides both fashion and quality at a price women could afford."

Sofia had a main role in creating this brand, so it will capture her well, and will be perfect for her fans. Stay on the look out for her new pieces, at the Kmart website, or at a store near you.

Viva La Diva Shoes

Viva La Diva is a company created by women that love shoes, for women that love them. The company strives to be the destination for those that are shopping for stylish footwear, at a wide range of prices to fit any budget. Viva La Diva women's shoes are sure to impress.

In addition, they are having a sale on some of the most coveted boot designs of the season. Don't miss it!

Make-up Designory Cosmetics

Make-up Designory cosmetics are professional grade products that have been tested by make up artists and experts in the industry. If you haven't tried this brand, it is about time that you do.

Eye shadow (eye color) – very saturated pigment that shows up very well on my skin. Blends perfectly and smoothly. Shows up on pale, medium, and dark skin tones.

Cream Mascara – nothing special compared to other mascaras. This specific one was rather clumpy to me. My eyelashes are fine, and medium length. The tube was easy to use, and could get a lot of product on the brush, however I think it would allow for too much product, because it felt like my lashes were being smothered with mascara. I wanted it to be more watery.

Creamy makeup compact (cream foundation) – a lot of pigment and covers well. Oily and smooth application. This would be too oily if you have combination to oily skin. I suggest you use this if you have dry to combination skin.

Eye shadow brush (crease brush) – works perfectly with eye colors, and conforms to the shape of your eye well. Blends shadow very well. The handle is long and comfortable to use.

You should see the wide selection of foundation colors, and highlight and shadow colors by Make-up Designory! They supply a very wide variety for real skin tones, not just the run of the mill types you see in drugstores.

To watch tutorial videos, featured in the image above, click here. You will need to have Quick Time installed to view them.

ClaudiaE

Claudia Estrada, an Ecuadorian born designer based in Miami, adds a twist of airy fabrics, bright colors, and soft patterns which are introduced in this year’s spring fashion line. ClaudiaE's trademark are apparent in her colorful, yet sophisticated leggings. This season, ClaudiaE presents her collection with a diverse selection of dresses, jumpsuits, and skirts.

JazzyWear Shoes

Teal Pump - $25

JazzyWear stocks some of the hottest styles at great prices. These fashionable pumps are the perfect height for jeans, and sexy paired with solid colored skirts. I love how the foot bed is very padded and comfortable. I suggest ordering a half size up or one size up if you have wider feet, for this style, because of the shape of the toe box. It is angular and leaves a bit less room for your toes to wiggle around. If your feet are narrow, then your regular size should be fine.

It is true what they say, shoes really do make the outfit!

Book Review: Unforgettable You by Daisy Fuentes

Daisy Fuentes' book, Unforgettable You: Mastering the Elements of Style, Spirituality and Allure is a great addition to your self help book collection. She writes on her own history, such as how she became a model, and the struggles that she went through to get there. There are several questionnaires to fill out about yourself. They offer a certain insight on a woman's life, because, "...a truly unforgettable woman never stops asking questions (of herself and of others)." p. 245.

Fuentes encourages journal writing, for daily reflection and so you can look back on it in the future. In addition, scattered throughout the book are encouraging quotes as well as several beautiful real life photographs of the author and her family. There is a chapter on spirituality and even one on sex etiquette. Topics on beauty and style also come into play in this fun guide for women. So, all of you Fuentes fans, go out and pick up a copy today, and be inspired.

Atria Books
First Hardcover Edition May 2010