A New Hue

By now you all know how much I love collaborations. So when I heard that contemporary designer Trina Turk was designing a collection of tights for Hue, I was beside myself! Hue has been a favorite of mine for tights since, well, high-school, and never fails to disappoint with their current styling and well-made goods.

With October drawing to a close and a nip in the air, tights are a wonderfully current addition to your skirts and dresses. Create a funky, upbeat look with tights by Trina Turk for Hue and add spark to your knee- or thigh-high boots. Tights are a fun way to add an unexpected element of style to your look. Trina Turk's designs are priced from $20 - $24 and include graphic stripes or geometrics. So go ahead, show some leg!

Fairytales of Technology

We moms love our laptops. But one that has style and is evocative of something out of a fairytale is just too good to be true!

Dell has teamed up with D.L. & Co: Purveyors of Curious Goods to create limited edition Adamo laptop skins that make your computer look like something right out of your children's favorite storybooks.

Now they have brought those designs to Bergdorf Goodman to create some of the most fabulous window displays that incorporate Little’s signature look: a blend of Edwardian decadence, Asian mystery and Rock and Roll edginess. I..want...one!

In addition, Little has collaborated with costume designer Michael Schmidt for the snake and corset laptops, sculptor George Sellers, Michele Varian for pillows for the Seduce The Senses window, a one of a kind sculpture jewelry piece by Justin Guinta of subversive jewelry in the Divine Design window, Jim Thompson Thai Silk and ABC Home. *swoon* This is definitely a must-see when I head to NYC in a few weeks!

Little says “Adamo means to fall in love and after reviewing the seductive craftsmanship and attention to detail of the Adamo - I too began to ‘fall in love’. I wanted to create a provocative and subversive spin on this love story that visually bridged the gap between fashion, technology and the avant garde. There is no better place on earth to debut these dream like visions than the Fifth Avenue windows of Bergdorf Goodman, which are world renowned for their creativity in seamlessly merging art and high fashion.”

Elle Magazine will be giving one croc-corseted laptop (value $5,000) a week for three weeks. Encrusted with Swarovski crystals and hand-stitched, this is one computer that you're not gonna want to share with the kids!

My Foolproof Outfit

If there's one thing that helps me to move through my day with confidence it's having on an outfit that fulfills three basic needs: 1/ it's chic, 2/ it's comfortable, and 3/it looks and feels effortless. Sounds easy enough, right? Too many times I have walked out of the house to work with a client, then changed clothes to pick my kids up from school, then had to change again for a dinner meeting or event. But on those rare days that I put on a great fitting outfit and know with certainty that I will have the outfit on until it's bedtime, it's like a style epiphany! Really, it's very liberating. I don't have to think about what I'm wearing, whether my jeans will creep down to reveal a little TMI or if it will look rumpled by the end of the day. I just know that I look well put together and can get on with the important stuff - like life!

So today as we celebrated my son's third birthday, I knew I'd have a busy day ahead. At his school there was a little celebration first thing this morning that I had been up all night baking muffins and pumpkin bread for. I needed something that would allow me to sit on the floor with him for group without showing skin (or worse, my thong!), shoes that wouldn't leave me towering endlessly over his sweet little classmates and a top that stayed put.

Here is why this outfit is foolproof, and how you can make yours foolproof too:

1/ Start with a pair of jeans that REALLY fit! No kidding - I mean like a glove, not too tight but won't start hovering around your hips at the end of the day. Jeans that leave you tugging at them take too much energy and take away from your day.

2/ Add a top that preferably has a band at the bottom. Ideally, you want a top that is on the longer side. This allows you to bend over or sit down without showing anything you don't want to.

3/ A body skimming, yet comfortable jacket such as a boyfriend blazer finishes off your look with style. Plus, if you have a few pounds to hide this can do the trick!

4/ Wear shoes that really let you move. Chasing kids in 3" platform heels is neither easy nor sexy. Plus, you could twist your ankle in those things. Save 'em for girls' night out and go for a pair of comfortable, yet chic, flats. They will not let you down, trust me.

5/ Opt for simple jewelry and a handbag that is roomy enough to stash the essentials. Anything else is icing on the cake, but make sure it doesn't detract from your purpose - effortless chic. A scarf can add a shot of color, but if you spend too much time fussing with it, what's the point?

Good luck finding your effortless and foolproof outfit! I'd love to hear from you about what makes your clothing foolproof and effortless!

Who's the Daddy?

These days most of us moms want our #1 man by our side as we give birth. Why not give your man something special to wear in honor of the big day?

DaddyScrubs are a fun way to keep dad comfy while showing off his pride. Designed just like what the doctors wear, DaddyScrubs ($39.95) are emblazoned with the phrase "I'm the Daddy", with a t-shirt bearing the same phrase that makes a perfect "going home" outfit. Mom gets special treatment, why not dad, too? It may make his time in the delivery room that much more comfortable, especially during a long labor.

DaddyScrubs are created by a real dad - who else? - who wanted to give men a special way to celebrate one of the biggest days of their lives.

Head Over Heels

Ladies, if you love to wear heels then you’re gonna love this fall’s lineup of shoes that are reminiscent of skyscrapers! But if heels just don’t suit your lifestyle, don’t despair. There are plenty of stylish options for you, too. Why not try these Coby distressed leather ballet flats (on sale for $40) from Nine West’s Vintage America collection? They’re comfy enough for the playground yet stylish enough to satisfy your inner fashionista.

Want something to add a little sparkle to your jeans and tee shirt? Try these fun Chocolate multi-colored flats adorned with studs and sequins. They'll dress up your most basic look, and give you a chic, edgy look. ($69)

L'Oreal Paris - Not Just for Women

Sure, L'Oreal Paris creates amazing cosmetics, skincare and nailcolor for women. But you didn't think they'd leave men out in the cold, did you? At the L'Oreal Paris Color Space at the NC State Fair men can sample skincare and hair care products made just for them.

The Men's Expert line from L'Oreal Paris is made up of products targeted specifically for men's skincare needs. I talked with Christian, L'Oreal Paris Event Producer, who recommends the Hydea-Energetic, Anti-Stress and Fatigue Moisturizer. Created to moisturize, soothe and protect all one step, the men's line is very user-friendly. One thing Christian pointed out is that men need to be using a daily SPF on their skin to prevent sun damage. However, men don't always use skincare products regularly, so this step often gets overlooked. Why not bring home a few products for your man to try? If you simply leave a face wash or a moisturizer in the bathroom, his curiousity will get the best of him and he'll want to give it a try. Once he sees the results, he'll become a big fan!

We take good care of our own skin - why not do what we can to encourage our men to take care of theirs?

L'Oreal Paris - My Makeover

Today is Day #2 for me blogging live from the L'Oreal Paris Color Space at the 2009 NC State Fair. The weather is a little chilly but the sun is coming out, making it a lovely day for the fair. Luckily, the L'Oreal tent is nice and heated, making it a fabulous way to indulge yourself in some beauty while coming in from the cold.

My first adventure this morning was to be treated to a complimentary skincare consultation and a makeover. What fun! Above is a shot of me as I arrived - my makeup is very natural looking and simple. As I entered the makeover area of the tent I spoke with Elaine, a L'Oreal skincare professional, who removed my makeup and recommended products and cleansers to keep my skin looking great. If there's one thing I've been blessed with it's good skin, and a healthy diet and lots of water have helped to keep it looking great, despite being a bit dehydrated. Elaine recommended a gentle cream cleanser, and Revitalift Complete day lotion that contains Pro-Retinol A and Pro-Lastyl. These work to help fight wrinkles as well as firm the skin, with a non-greasy finish (and the addition of an SPF). Thanks, Elaine. I'm gonna give these a try!

After my skincare consultation I was treated to a makover from Denise, a L'Oreal makeup artist from Chicago. I told Denise I wanted to step outside my comfort zone and try something new on my eyes. When she asked me how I'd like some shimmer, I was a little uncertain. I mean, I am 41, and didn't want to look too overdone. She assured me it would be subtle and pretty. So I said go for it!

When I saw the final result I was thrilled that I had asked Denise for something I wouldn't have thought to create on on my own. She did very bold, dramatic eyes on me. I have rather large, deep-set eyes and have always shied away from anything that I thought made them look bigger. Boy was I doing the wrong thing! Denise showed me how playing up my eyes in a dramatic fashion accentuated them in a way that I just loved! She used black liner, as well as HIP loose shadow pigment in a shade called "unashamed" (how cool is that?) that is best described as a deep rose with a hint of shimmer. Very contemporary and very chic! She then lengthened my lashes with Extra Volume Collagen mascara. I've been on a quest for long, full lashes lately and this plumping mascara with it's large, full brush yields some pretty impressive results. Because she did a deep, dramatic eye and it was the middle of the day, I asked her for a soft, nude lip to balance the look. You can see the "after" pic at left.

Judging by the numbers of people streaming through, lots of women are going to get a new look this afternoon. I wish I could document all the wonderful "befores" and "afters" that I am seeing because the L'Oreal ladies are doing a phenomenal job. But the best part is the look can be recreated at home without a lot of time or expense. L'Oreal products are available at your local drugstore or superstore at prices that won't leave you batting an eye.

L'Oreal Paris - Beauty's Only Skin Deep

Have you ever looked at your skin up close and personal? Taking a close look at our skin in the mirror can help us to understand a little better how to treat it and why it's so delicate. But treat yourself to a personal consultation in L'Oreal Paris' Glow Vista machine located in the L'Oreal Paris Color Space at the NC State Fair and you'll gain a whole new understanding of the the effects of the evironment on your skin.

Performed by a licensed esthetician, a personal consultation in the Glow Vista (pictured, left) will give you a picture of the second layer of your skin (one we never get to see). The machine is mirrored so you can look at your face simultaneously as the consultant points out your issues. You'll see how the sun has damaged your skin over the years, determine whether your skin is dehydrated and diagnose some other potential problems, perhaps even before you notice them otherwise. Scary, I know. But more than just that, she'll custom create a skincare regimen for you that will help to repair some of the damage, and well as prevent more.

I'll admit that I was simultaneously drawn to, and afaid of, the Glow Vista. Knowing what I'd see may not be what I'd like to see, I approached it with trepidation (see me, right). However, hearing my diagnosis (my skin is dehydrated) by a licensed professional, along with a few easy to follow recommendations to add to my skincare routine, made it a process I was glad I gave in to.

L'Oreal Paris proves that beauty is only skin deep, and that when we know what lurks beneath the surface we can nurture our skin to help it look better than ever.

L'Oreal Paris Color Space - Highlight Your Own Hair

We all love the look of highlights and the dimension they can create. Yet paying the hefty pricetag many salons charge may not be in our budget as often as we'd like. Why not try doing your own highlights at home? Before you ask me if I'm kidding, let me just tell you right now that it's a very real possibility - and easier than you might think!

At the L'Oreal Paris Color Space tent at the 2009 NC State Fair I met L'Oreal Colorist, Vanessa, who showed me how easy it can be to create your own highlights at home. First, choose your formula from several options. If you want partial highlights, choose from the Chunking kit for chunky accents, Colour Rays for a little edgy color, or Couleur Express for subtle highlights or lowlights.

Vanessa showed me an easy way to get the color you want. Begin by sectioning off a chunk of hair at the top of your head and secure it so it's out of your way. (see below)

Next, you'll take a comb and section off small strands. Brush each strand on the topside, then the under side, with the color formula. No foils are needed, but be careful that colored strands don't get pressed into your hair or it may affect the color. If the strands just lay gently on your hair it will be fine. For chunkier highlights use larger strands, for more subtle highlights use smaller strands.

Keep going until you have colored the desired amout of hair and follow the instructions for best results.

It may seem old school but, believe it or not, one of L'Oreal Paris' best selling hair color products is the Frost and Design kit. It comes complete with a cap (just like your grandma used to wear!) for even application all-over, or just in sections.

Even if you've never contemplated it before, you may want to rethink DIY haircolor. If you're not certain about doing it on yourself, enlist a trusted friend and take turns doing each other's. Better yet, stop by and see Vanessa yourself while she's here and get her expert tips. You'll save some serious cash while treating yourself to a little beauty indulgence that can help boost your image at the same time.

L'Oreal Color Space Sneak Peek

This afternoon at 3pm the NC State Fair cranks up another years' worth of fun for the whole family. I'm looking forward to the return of some old favorites: Lil' Orbits cinnamon sugar donuts, fried Wisconsin cheese and the non-stop fun of the Demolition Derby. But this year our State Fair has a wonderful new addition that I'm thrilled to be a part of. The 5,000 square foot beauty wonderland, L'Oreal Color Space, is preparing to open it's tent flaps and bring beauty to live for men, women and children of all ages experiment with makeup, skincare, nail color and much more!

Here's a rundown of what you'll find when you enter the Color Space:

Complimentary services from L'Oreal Paris' trained professionals

Skin care analysis and consultations

Mini makeovers

Product Samples

Hair care and Hair Color consultations

The pavilion will also feature a manicure bar, skin care lab with computer terminals for access to the L’Oreal Paris Web site and a mobile Truelight Pod, exclusive to L’Oreal Paris, which recreates specific lighting environments so visitors can see how different light affects the looks of makeup and hair tones.

In celebration of L’Oreal Paris' 100-year anniversary, visitors to The Color Space can enjoy special pricing on select products and a $2 gift certificate that can be used toward the purchase of any L'Oreal products sold at The Color Space or local retailers.

So come on out, enjoy a day at the NC State Fair and enjoy some time at the L'Oreal Color Space. I'll be there today from 3pm - 6pm, then tomorrow from 11am until 2pm. See you there!

Curvier Lashes

Want big, bold lashes? Give Avon's SuperCurlacious Mascara a try and you'll be pleasantly surprised. Designed with an exclusive curl-fix formula, the curved wand sets a curl in your lashes and holds it for up to 12 hours.

I love the way the curved brush evenly applies mascara to my top lashes evenly with each application. It worked well and stayed put, with no flaking or smudging. To heighten the effect, try curling your lashes first and you'll really bring out the curves, making your eyes look lovely! SuperCurlacious Mascara is regularly $7.50 but now on sale for just $4.99. Talk about a bargain!

Win It
We're giving five (5) winners a tube of SuperCurlacious Mascara to experience for themselves. To enter, become a fan of our Facebook Page and leave a comment on that page telling us about your favorite Avon product. The deadline is Midnight, EST, October 17, 2009.

Belli Up to the Bath

Bath time can be a great experience for moms and babies to share, and treating your baby to safe and gentle skincare is a wonderful way to care for her delicate skin. Belli Skincare was founded by Jason Rubin MD and Annette Rubin in 2002, and offers a total wellness approach with products that feature the benefits of aromatherapy and massage therapy with the heightened screening of a medical company. Each product is created without dyes or fragrances and made just for your sensitive little one. Belli's Calm Me Hair and Body Wash ($18) and Nourish Me Enriched Body Lotion ($19) are enriched with essential oils, pH balanced and tear-free and make the perfect addition to your baby’s bath time routine.

Wardrobe Secrets: the Camisole

Do you love camisoles as much as I do? I have found this one item to be an indespensible piece in my wardrobe, and a item I recommend for just about every single client I've worked with. And for good reason. Camisoles come in all shapes and sizes, making some variation of this sleek, body-hugging layer perfect under just about anything. More than just lingerie, camisoles can add a shot of color, a dash of style and a touch of modesty to your outfit. Here are some of my favorite ways to wear them:

1/ Layer a long, thin, body-hugging cami beneath a knit top or tee-shirt to give you a sleek look and also add interest with a contrasting color. Try burgundy under magenta, or navy under royal. *bonus feature: the long cami also camouflages the span of skin that's visible when you bend over to tie your child's shoe or pick something up.

2/ Have a top or dress with a plunging neckline? Layer a pretty lace trimmed cami underneath and it's appearance will be a welcome addition to your look. Go for a neutral shade such as white, beige or ivory to down-play the look, or try a pop of color such as turquoise, rose or jade to bring some brightness to your face.

3/ Wearing a cami helps to make any shirt fit for breastfeeding in public. Simply lift your shirt from the bottom up, pull the cami from the top down, and your tummy will be covered while you nurse your baby!

4/ If you're hot natured, opt for a camisole beneath your jacket or sweater, in lieu of a short or long sleeved top, to help you keep your cool.

5/ Adding a cami with some pretty embroidery, lace or other adornment at the neckline will help you put your own personal stamp on your outfit.

6/ If you're wearing a sheer top, layer a camisole underneath to keep you covered. Go for a similar, rather than contrasting, color to keep it from being distracting.

7/ A camisole is generally not a top to be worn by iteself unless you are in your teens. Wear with something to enhance your look and you'll look wonderful!

Try adding a few camisoles to your wardrobe and see how they can create a big impact on your look!

A Moment to Indulge

It’s nice when you can share a snack with your kids but sometimes a mom just needs a quiet moment to herself to relax and indulge her senses. Why not try a bag of Charlie’s Truffled Popcorn for just those moments? Created in Vass, NC by Susan Rice, this is truly a one-of-a kind treat. Flavored with Black Périgord and Summer Truffles, this air-popped delicacy pairs well with a glass of red wine, or enjoy it with your beverage of choice. It will elevate a night of watching movies to something far more special. Find Charlie’s Truffled Popcorn, and other truffle products from Susan Rice, at Whole Foods and other specialty stores.

P & G Goes Pink

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, making breast self-exams, as well as mammograms, very important in the fight against this disease. MyPinkPlan.com, offers tools to help women create a plan for prevention, including reminders to do self-exams, and to schedule clinical exams and mammograms. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Proctor and Gamble have teamed up with the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc, (NBCF) have launched GIVE HOPE, a program designed to increase women's chances of survival from breast cancer through early detection.

Join the cause on Facebook and $1 will be donated to NBCF.

A Good Foundation

My clients have all heard me talk about the importance of wearing good underwear. But by that I don't fancy or expensive, but simply the RIGHT underwear. Looking great in our clothing starts with a good foundation underneath. As our bodies change and age, shapewear can help smooth things out a bit and give us a sleeker silhouette under our clothing. Here are my top three ways to incorporate shapewear into your wardrobe:

1/ Ladies, f you're wearing a clingy knit dress, PLEASE ditch the thong. It creates a distraction and really does show every line, lump and bump (no matter your size). Instead, reach for a pair of Power Panties ($26) (they do breathe) and say good-bye to bumps. Added benefit - aside from a smoother look, you'll also create a slimming silhouette, instantly shaving off pounds from your body.

2/ Under trousers try this Shaping Brief ($14.40) to eliminate VPL. They're comfy, stay put and keep you looking sleek and smooth. Because panty lines are just not attractive.

3/ Got Backfat? We all have a little and it's just not fair. But wear a Sassybax Torso Trim ($75) under your most clingy tops and dresses and you'll wonder "where's the backfat?"

Win It
Because shapewear is an integral part of every good wardrobe we're giving away a gift certificate for $30 to Freshpair.com to use on the shapewear or lingerie of your choice. To enter, just leave a comment and tell me what item of shapewear you'd choose, along with your email. Deadline is Tuesday, October 6, 2009.