Lands' End Canvas: Fingerless Gloves

I can not tell you the number of times I have heard "WHAT ARE THOSE? I LOVE THEM!" In the last week. I have worn these cable-knit, olive-colored beauties every day for the last five days. Under 3/4 length cropped sweaters, over cotton stretch long tee's, over tight knit sweaters, with a tank at 6:30 a.m. yoga and yes, even, to bed. And in every location at least one person (except in bed of course) has said....

We in North Carolina have been borrowing some of Lands' End's native arctic weather but still even when winter thaws this year I'll be dreaming up excuses to work these comfy beauties into my wardrobe. And it has nothing to do with the fact that these were blogger swag. I LOVE them for reals. They rock.



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La Mer Introduces The Eye Balm Intense, Fall 2010

La Mer’s latest innovation, The Eye Balm Intense, launches this fall. In fact I've known about it for a few weeks but wasn't allowed to tell you until Sept. 1. Can you imagine, knowing about this and not being able to share with you girls? It's been hell - I assure you. I coped by telling my coworkers instead who all now look about 10 years younger and are a little cash-poorer after their latest visits to the local La Mer counters.

Powered with a triple concentration of La Mer’s seaborne elixir—The Miracle Broth™, state-of-the-art Marine De-Puff Ferment™ and exclusive Lifting Ferment™, The Eye Balm Intense comforts skin with the cooling sensation of pure hydration. With use, the appearance of lines and wrinkles diminishes. Visible puffiness is smoothed. I HIGHLY recommend using with The Radiant Concealer SPF 25. A dab of each under the eyes and, essentially, you've got yourself a really inexpensive eye lift. Enjoy!

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The Same Questions I Ask Everyone with June Jacobs

What is your first memory of beauty products?
As a child I suffered from acne so my first memory of beauty products was using acne treatment products. They were so awful to use because they smelled horrible and often left my skin dry and flaky. It has been my mission with the creation of my new acne collection (launching in February 2011) to use natural ingredients that are powerful, yet gentle and help to keep skin clear, and blemish free.

At what age did you start wearing makeup?
I started wearing makeup and really taking care of my skin at the age of 16.

If you could apply only one product for the next month what would it be?
I would die if I could not use my moisturizer. First and foremost, moisturizer helps to hydrate the skin leaving it soft, smooth and younger looking. In a pinch, a moisturizer can be used as a cleanser and can even remove makeup.

If you could give one product to all women in the world what would it be?
My new Acne Spot Treatment! Whether you are young or old, we all have blemishes. My new vanishing spot treatment is absolutely amazing because it can be used in the a.m. or p.m as an emergency spot treatment and also may be used to treat and prevent routine acne. Everyone feels and looks their best when their skin is clear and blemish free!

If you could ban one harmful ingredient from all beauty products what would it be?
I would ban parabens, which are a specific type of preservative that protect food and cosmetics against microbial contaminants, specifically yeast and mold. Recent studies show that parabens may cause cancer and cause allergic reactions/skin rashes. I have recently reformulated my entire line and have removed all parabens and I have seen such a difference in my formulas, they are more efficacious and feel and smell absolutely wonderful.

What is your favorite skincare ingredient?
My favorite ingredient is Gogi Berry. I eat them every day and I have added Goji Berry extract to every one of my products because they are the most powerful anti-oxidant that helps neutralize free radicals, protect skin from environmental toxins and combat the visible signs of premature aging. They are known as “The King of All Berries” and contain carotenoids such as beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, over 18 different amino acids and is a source of Vitamins B1, B2, B6 and C. It is rich in polysaccharides to help support intercellular communication providing essential nutrients to cells which encourages healthy immune function.

What is the last product you created?
The last product I created was my Radiant Refining Exfoliating Powder which is my new, favorite product because it is gentle enough to use everyday and leaves your skin soft and silky smooth. This unique exfoliating powder activates upon contact with water and gently sweeps away dead skin cells with rice, bamboo, papain and salicylic acid, leaving skin soft, smooth and clarified. Natural brightening ingredients, lemon peel, bearberry root, mulberry root and licorice extract help balance overall skin tone, while tea tree oil and willow bark extract help absorb oil. It also includes my powerful patent pending anti-oxidant blend of white, red and green tea extracts combined with goji berry, pomegranate and grape seed extracts help to neutralize free radicals, protect skin from environmental toxins and combat the visible signs of premature aging. Helps refine the skin’s texture and tone leaving it with a flawless, radiant finish.

Who is the business woman you most admire?
I truly admire my dear friend, Gretchen Monahan. She is the entrepreneur behind the Needham-based Gretta Enterprises owns three local salons (Grettacole), two clothing boutiques (Gretta Luxe), and a spa called G Spa. She appears weekly as a style expert on "Rachael Ray" in New York and locally on Channel 7 for a segment called "Gretta's Got It." She is also a design consultant for shoe brands Via Spiga and Naturalizer, she is a consultant for Dove's hair-care line, launching a line of shoes, and writing a how-to book on dressing well. I am also working with her on creating her own line of beauty products…and that is not all!

Whose beauty do you most admire?
I have always been fascinated by how people in different countries take care of their skin. Wherever I travel, I spend hours in various stores and spas looking at the products and speaking to the sales associates and I have to say that I admire Asian women’s skin the most…they have an overall radiance to their skin that gives them a young, healthy glow. In my travels to Asia I am always amazed to see how many women have absolutely flawless skin and it is because they take such great care of their skin, by using a comprehensive skincare regimen that incorporates products that help to illuminate the skin and reduce the signs of sun damage and hyperpigmentation. Their beauty was the inspiration for my Brightening Serum and Moisturizer which include natural botanical brighteners that give an overall radiance to the skin.

What was your best Spa experience?
I received the most amazing massage of my life in Phuket, Thailand. There is something so special about receiving a therapeutic Thai massage while staring out at the white sands and deep blue Andaman Sea.

Besides your own, what is your favorite brand?
I love Trish McEvoy. Trish has always been committed to the creation of the highest quality products and she is a genius for creating her iconic Makeup Planner. I am a firm believer in her guiding philosophy that women should be able to maintain a standard of beauty and not be obligated to sacrifice their beauty because of the constraints of time, space and age.

Read more about June and check out her amazing products here.

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Elemis Couples with Bliss Spa

As is my tradition when I am in a city lucky enough to house a bliss spa within its blocks, I make it my duty to stop in and fill up my cup. Having had a particularly jarring Sunday evening, I nodded at the serendipity of my well-timed appointment with world's first bliss. Located on Broadway between Prince and Houston, I realized suddenly that the Dean and DeLuca (both of whom I've decided to marry) I've been frequenting is only a few doors down. Despite having been to this, the original bliss before, I had not, until today, realized these two Manhattan merchants of all things heavenly are actually, neighbors. Love thy neighbor, indeed.

My trip today was in honor of another celestial pairing of powerhouse brands. Two new Elemis treatments (a facial and a body scrub) are now on the bliss menu. Can you think of anything more delightful? No no, neither can I. International powerhouse Elemis has decided to have a fling with the Spa industry's most playful outpost. Bliss meet Elemis. Elemis meet bliss. You'll get along just fine.

My first Vichy shower was at Bliss San Francisco and I will never, ever forget it. It was the first time I had been fully bathed, scrubbed and oiled up like a limp toddler in adulthood and it was absolutely one of the most pleasurable days of my existence. This was a similar journey, only with Elemis Japanese Camilla Oil heated and rubbed over the majority of my flesh. But I'm getting ahead of myself.

First my veteran bliss technician buffed my entire body with a dry brush. Then came the Camilla oil, then the Exotic Lime & Ginger Salt Glow scrub. Then the AMAZING Vichy shower. This is the part where they move multiple shower heads that hang from the ceiling over your entire body at once and bath all of the yummy oil and salt off of you. At the end of this process I was briefly left to wade the full length of my body in the shallow pond of these delicious Elemis scents. If, you have never waded your entire body in Elemis scented waters it is really something you must try before you die. Though I can't imagine heaven smells much different. It was a kind of peace that a price simply can't define.

Finally once you are nearly delirious and dry they polish you from head to toe in the most delicious Elemis Exotic Island Flower Balm, a delectably scented lotion with fragrances of Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Osmanthus and Vanilla. Enjoy!

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Services in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Liz Earle Natually Acitve Eye Makeup Remover

Physically speaking, I'm about the most sensitive person on the planet. I can't drink caffeine, don't tolerate loud noises and anything with a toxic chemical makes me feel sick. The latest bodily revolt is happening in my eyes. They refuse to tolerate even eye liner lately. This is bad news for me mostly because I'm 29 and no 29 year old should go to work without eyeliner. Sad state of affairs. But my eyes are red, itchy, dry, and the lower lashes have taken to not growing back on the lower left hand side. (Any doctors in the house?) Anyhow in the meantime, I've searched high and low for the most earth friendly eye makeup remover and I have surfaced from the ocean optical makeup remover, triumphant with Liz Earle's Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion. For those of you, like me, who are natives to this side of the pond "lotion" refers to a toner-like substance that adeptly removes eye makeup. This particular lotion has an actual ingredient called Eyebright along with cornflower, witchhazel, and organic aloe vera. Yum. My eye might finally muster a tear now that I'm running out of this lovely, gentle, eye makeup remover. Enjoy!

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Products in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Denim to Love: Charlotte Russe

As far as denim goes, nothing but designer has touched this derriere since college. A few weeks ago I stopped by my favorite luxury PR firm in Manhattan and they gave me jeans from Charlotte Russe. Doubtful to say the least, I slipped them on to find HEAVEN. These, double button, low rise, dark denim slices of heaven do everything my $200 designer jeans do. In fact I love the cut so much I'm not even embarrassed to say I got them at Charlotte Russe which until now I thought an exclusive haunt of teeny boppers. Think again. Charlotte Russe is ROCKIN it. Enjoy!

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Products in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Mascara to Die For: Peter Thomas Roth

Ok so it does everything a fabulous mascara should do. Lengths, pigment from heaven, unique brilliantly-designed brush. All of those features make me heart it. But here are the eight reasons why I love it: Bamboo, Aloe Vera, Macadamia Nut Oil, Silk Powder, Vitamin A C & E, and Pro Vitamin B5. I feel like an empress, getting to put such lush, healing, natural ingredients on my lashes and up the beauty factor all with a wave of this magic little wand. Enjoy!

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Products in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

New York City: Foot Survival Guide

Dearest New York,

I love you but you don't seem to love my feet. Odd cramps between my two front toes that get worked out in (amazing) nightly yoga sessions. Piles of dirt and grime that wash off my Mississippi River legs leaving the shower drain looking like the delta during spring floods. Havianas that have lasted two seasons in North Carolina have been worn just as much in under two weeks in the big city. What's a (mostly) earth friendly, spa-obsessed, walk-loving account exec to do? 1) Mani Pedi at eco-friendly, West Village spa 2) Liz Earle Naturally Active Skin Care foot remedies.

AMAZING. Keep the scrub in the shower to aid a quick healing of blisters and remove the days most stubborn exhaust particles. Keep the repair moisturizer by the bed and you will wake up feeling like you have toddler toes. Enjoy!

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Products and services mentioned in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Beyonce Paints L'Oreal Red

In May of 2009 I met Beyonce backstage at the Greensboro, North Carolina stop of her 'I Am Sasha Fierce' tour. Surprisingly, it was a major moment in my life.

See, Beyonce and I are the same age. In meeting her, it was obvious that she was living inside her passion, using every talent she had been given and not apologizing for any of it. I saw with my own eyes that she is 1) an angel and 2) embracing and being just exactly who she is at all times. So when she reps L'Oreal I believe her. For reals. Her new commercial for L’Oréal Paris’ latest Infallible Stars Never Fail Lipcolour Compact has just hit the airwaves. (You must check out Beyonce Red)

Funny thing is, no matter how beautiful she is on screen or in film, in person she is absolutely ethereal. For today, we'll settle for the film footage. Enjoy!

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O Magazine, The Big Deals Issue

Were it not for Oprah parenting me through a large part of my adolescence via her Maya Aneglou tauting after school episodes, I'm not sure where I'd be though I doubt life would be as sweet as it is at this very moment. So, when Mama O says something is a big deal I listen. This August, The Big Deals Issue offers readers the ultimate treat: an entire issue filled with spectacular giveaways and bargains.

“When you consider how many compromises and trade-offs all of us make every day—it’s clear that deals make the world go round,” says Oprah Winfrey. “Which is why, this month, we’re exploring just about every kind of deal there is—to help you feel good about every one you make.”

Mama O's Beauty Bargains: Beauty: 25 for $25 (or Less!): O editors wheeled and dealed and scored more than two dozen beauty bargains (some over 75 perfect off) on readers behalf. Pretty products for a bargain include: Dr. Loretta Dermatologist Skin Care Youthful Wri-Lax, $25 – down from $100. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour set $25 from $41 and Colbert M.D. Heal & Sooth: Night $25 from $140.

Val's beauty tip: Pick your polish wisely: Many salons use nail polish thinners when their old polishes start to thicken with age. Thinners compromise both the color and integrity of the formula. If the bottle is less than three quarters full, ask for a new one. The August Issue hits stands July 13. Enjoy!

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From Brooklyn to the Rainforest: A Manhattan Mani-Pedi Story

It's been just under seven years since I've lived in Manhattan proper. During that first stint as a New Yorker every experience I had in Brooklyn centered in Williamsburg and ended with a firm resolution to never return. Last night, having a vague sense that I owed the journey to an old friend, I boarded the subway for the 45 minute excursion. Happily, I found nothing but beauty in the borough across the bay. Delighted by a magical neighborhood of old country estates and panoramic views from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State building, I find myself wondering why exactly I'm in Manhattan at the moment.

Manhattan is demanding- which is one of the (many) reasons I love it. Still, after demanding my feet to march the entirety of the island in one week, they were long overdue for downtime. I decided a retreat to the rainforest might give me some perspective on that other exotic distant land, Brooklyn.

I took my reprieve on West 8th Street at the eco-friendly Eve Salon.

Their seasonal Rainforest Renewal Manicure and Pedicure and uber comfortable pedi couches provided the respite I needed to reflect on my return to Brooklyn. With a restorative Star Fruit Banana Butter Crème Bath, and a delicious Passion Fruit Guava Body Scrub underway I got to thinking. Or at least, I tried. Maybe it was all the Acai antioxidants floating around but I really couldn't come up with anything. Just that, all these years I've been fixated on Manhattan, my time here, what I'd do differently, when and if to return. All this time humble, happy, simply beautiful Brooklyn was just across the river and last night it afforded me views of Manhattan, and the many lives I've lived here, that have left me very, simply happy.

Still, whether you're a city girl or a country bumpkin your time in the elegant elevated couches at Eve Salon will melt your mind just past the stop marked "Soul Searching" and drop you off at "Excessively Happy". (Ask for Jane if she's available) Enjoy!

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Services in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Mermaid for Manhattan

The departure from North Carolina was confusing at best and sadly, I forgot my be-all end-all "Teal the Cows Come Home" -yoga-enhancing nail color. Doing what all lacquer-obsessed New Yorkers do, I stopped by the mothership on the Northeast corner of Union Square in search of a replacement. Not since Tom Hanks laid eyes on Daryl Hannah has a New Yorker found such a beautiful Mermaid below 17th street. Behold, "Mermaid to Order" the oceanic queen of OPI for Sephora. Two shades to the left of my teal, Mermaid to Order splashed her magic all over my yoga class this morning. Enjoy!

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You MUST watch.

lululemon athletica - Salutation Nation - August 7th, 2010 9 AM from Andrew Michael Dolgin on Vimeo.

Rock My Asana: Best Yoga in NYC

Carrie Bradshaw dated New York for years; almost as many years as I've dated beauty products. On this trip however after years of hot and cold, I can finally say Carrie's man is winning me over BIG time. I found my yoga home away from home. In fact I just got out of one of one of the best classes of my life. Sure I fell out of tree pose because the teacher was making me laugh too hard but that, my friends, is how you know you are home- the laughter. Also, Fleetwood Mac and Van Morrison made the play list. For real? LOVE it.

If you're in New York and you like down to earth, rock your asana vinyasa flow style yoga you MUST check out Laughing Lotus. Love it MASSIVE. Enjoy!

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Packing it up

Tomorrow I leave for a month in New York. My clothes are packed. Books look they will fit. But there is no earthly way I can possibly fit the beauty closet into regulation-sized luggage and pay less than $300 in baggage fees. Bummer. So it's time to keep only what really really matters. It seems life, in an effort to conspire with my most memorable trips, has a way of systematically clearing the decks to make room for the bounty of the journey to come. The eternal march of life and airline penny pinching have forced me to be brutal. So what exactly will make it into my one precious carry-on and my only slightly less precious checked bag?

This, the most coveted of all beauty spot dream products: The Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare Overnight Travel Kit will be a guaranteed carry on. With a travel size Cleanse and Polish AND the life-saving (hides even a bad break up) Brightening Treatment Mask I can not imagine how I could possibly feel more prepared for NYC. Here is a full list of the little lovelies included in this even lovelier case. As for the checked baggage think Hip and Thigh Gel, Foot Scrub and Repair, Bust Treatment miracle cream and on and on and on. Liz Earle, you have my heart and all of the prime real estate in my precious luggage. Enjoy!

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Products in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

The Ritz Carlton, A New Shanghai Location

The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, opened on June 21. As the luxury hotel brand’s second property in the city, and its seventh in China, the opening came with much fanfare including tweets from RC president Simon F. Cooper.

In case you are not following Simon F Cooper's twitter account: "I'm extremely proud to welcome our 7th hotel in #China into the portfolio. The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong." Can the Ritz-Carlton get any hipper? Really, how many corporations have their presidents tweeting their latest? So fab.

Located in Shanghai ifc, the prime real estate in Lujiazui financial trade zone, the hotel (and development) is the work of architect Cesar Pelli. The 285-room property occupies the top 18 floors of the Shanghai ifc South Tower. Opening during June's World Expo, the design and style of the hotel is contemporary, with hints of new interpretations of 1930’s Shanghai Art Deco. Instilled with a great sense of place, the hotel's guest rooms and restaurants embrace magnificent sweeping views over The Bund – the most intact collection of Art Deco architecture anywhere in the world.


You girls know I'm already and R-C fanatic but LOOK at these pictures! Next time I'm in China, I'm SO there.

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Bliss Lemon & Sage Body Scrub

Bliss was my first love. In fact this blog wouldn't exist were it not for a well-timed road trip to San Francisco and an a serendipitous spa stop at said city's relaxation haven. Still, I'm always amazing by how MUCH I love nearly everything they make. This little nugget of bliss came as part of the Poetic Waxing Kit from QVC. (Still trying to stop laughing long enough to get that post on the page.) This body scrub for example, not only smells like heaven but has a smooth non-sticky feel AND is the consistency of cookie dough when only the butter and sugar have been added. Delish. If it washed off my day, I promise it will bring a better end to yours also. Enjoy!

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Products in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

A MUST have shopping experience....

I have a new favorite.....it's called shopping over the phone...with a brilliant store called LaLa- a Kerry Cassill boutique. I am one of the unfortunates who does not live in Laguna Beach, California, yet I feel the need to have many things that come out of this store located far, far away from me. Is this a shopping conundrum? NO, it most definitely is not! This is because the staff at LaLa are the ultimate in personal shopping...over the phone! I gather my visual ideas from their website and from their Facebook page, to see exactly what my heart is longing for....then I simply make the call 949-464-9220, talk to either the lovely Tessa or to Kerry herself...and the clothes are on the way to my doorstep! It's magically delicious!!!!!!

If you enjoy feeling naked, yet appearing clothed beautifully, colorfully, and uniquely, these are the clothes for you. Kerry roamed the world and found perfection in the most comfortable, lux weight Indian fabrics. This is more than clothing; it's a lifestyle that makes you feel magical.

P.S.- Oh, and for those in NYC, Kerry Cassill is doing a "pop-up shop" at the Erica Tanov store this summer!!!!! Check it out!

Enjoy!

By Timna for Beauty's Spot

Pure Color, New City

Girls, I have the most exciting news. I'll be working from New York for a large part of the summer! I'm in the process of glossing up my North Carolina style to be a little less yoga-chic and little more, well, chic. Luckily Estee Lauder (and really, who was more chic than Estee herself?) has relaunched pure color and NAILED it in the gloss department. The Tempting Tea Rose (second from the left) is a truly unique, classy, muted color that makes any outfit a little more Calvin Klein. The Tempting Tea Rose will for sure make "carry on" status. LOVE & ENJOY!

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Products mentioned in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

QVC Bliss

I've never thought of QVC as Bliss-ful but that's about to change. Starting Monday, June 14 at 1AM (ET) Bliss Spa invites QVC’s 98 million US households to experience their product line during a one-hour QVC premiere show.

Highlights of products being presented include Bliss Lemon Sage Body Butter (we love) and Soapy Suds Duos, Bliss Four Piece Poetic Waxing At-Home Hair Removal Kit, Bliss Peeling Groovy Facial Serum and Best of Skintentions Moisturizer. They will also have my personal fave the Triple Oxygen Mask. It's in my top ten beauty products of ALL TIME.

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Some products mentioned in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

La Mer & Oceana: Make A Difference

Visit Oceana.org and sign up to help stop the pillaging.

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Clean & Clear Morning Burst: Smells Like Citrus Scrub.

Never before, when hunting for a product's home page have I been greeted by such masterfully produced pop music. And I like it. Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Scrub has an instantly refreshing citrus scent that will uplift even the biggest morning monster's spirits. (Please note I'm only using it on my body and not my face as I actually don't believe in large physical exfoliants for the face. Still, it does WONDERS for the bod.) Shanna's pop music is actually the auditory equivalent of clean and clear's newest suds sensation. Don't take my word for it, ask Shana. I'm a brand new girl and life is in fact very, very good. Enjoy!

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Products in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Lust for Life......in L.A....

this weekend...on the cheap! Who would have thought that was a possibility? Well, it is! I'm lusting to be in L.A. this coming weekend....for many reasons, but here are 3 I can share with you!

If you are in La-La Land this weekend, want to have an adrenalin-inducing time, but don't want to stress your wallet, then here it is......

The fab fun begins with a Splendid and Ella Moss warehouse sale! This event can clothe your entire family, or just you, depending upon your mood. This sale will include clothing for women, men, tween, toddler, and baby. It's all here: Splendid, Splendid Mills, Splendid Girl, Splendid Littles, Ella Moss, Ella Moss Black Label, Ella Moss Girl and Little Ella. These are clothes that provide more than just style, they are a tactile experience that make you feel good. Just what one wants to boost your mood! So, bring your large, reusable bags and be ready to stuff them til they overflow.

Friday, June 4 and Saturday, June 5, from 9-4
Cooper Building 860 Wouth Los Angeles Street, 8th floor Los Angeles, CA 90014

Next, be prepared to laugh your ass off at Meltdown Comics presentation of the Battleship Pretension show featuring The Sklar Brothers. These twin comedians are beyond hilarious; they are guaranteed to work your core better than some hot pilates teacher could do! Their style is described as "a tag team delivery in which one talks over the end of the other's sentence, completing, adding to or reaffirming his comment (much like the rap of The Beastie Boys).." wrote Neil Strauss of The New York Times.


Saturday, June 5, from 8:00-10:00 p.m. $5.00 (yep, just FIVE dollars!)
Meltdown Comics- 7522 Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90046

Don't stop there! SUNDAY!!!!! Do it up Topanga style! Yes, a delicious treat to wrap up the weekend. Come hang out, eat BBQ, and enjoy the all acoustic show with one of my new, favorite bands The Ooks of Hazzard. Be prepared to be amazed and blown away! The Ooks are a band made up of 7 ukuleles, an accordion, and a cajon. I know! Sounds a bit "different"...well, it is! There is nothing like the sounds this band produces. The song that has hoisted them into popularity is their MGMT cover "Kids". Just listen and you will be hooked! Oh, and let's not forget the hotness factor! So not only should you listen, but also look. You will be charmed in many ways!

Sunday, June 6, 12:00-6:00 p.m., $10.
Topanga Community Club House 1440 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Topanga, CA 90290



Enjoy!

-by Timna for Beauty's SPOT

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Debut Fragrance from Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare

On July 1 olfactory obsessives will finally enjoy the debut fragrance from Liz Earle. The UK has already bestowed two awards on Botanical Essence, Eau de Parfum No. 1, the painstaking triumphant effort from renowned perfumer Jean Charles Niel of Grasse, France.

Relying on high-altitude lavender from France, damask rose from Turkey, Italian bergamont and perpetually pleasant patchouli from Indonesia Jean Charles created a symphony of essential oils.

The packaging is also a treasure in itself and will make the perfect gift for any woman with a penchant for the finer things. Enjoy!

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Products in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Urban Decay Urban Defense Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20

Oh MY god. Generally I'm a Laura Mercier Minerals kind of girl. Urban Decay Urban Defense Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 arrived in the beauty closet recently and has completely stolen my heart. My loyalty is easily swayed by any product that allows me to look in the mirror and call to mind the hypnotically smooth skin of the supermodels who walked the catwalks of my adolescent mind during those formative years. Their skin looked more like the surface of placid lakes than actual human skin and I wanted nothing more than their invincible epidermal glow.

This paraben and fragrance-free formula delivers said invincible glow along with a multi-mineral complex that battles free radical damage, AND has SPF 20. Since it’s buildable, Urban Defense always has just the right amount of tint… wear it alone for light coverage (great for warm outdoor weather) or under powder for an extra polished look. Apply Urban Defense after your cleansing/toning ritual and you’re ready to face the day with moisture, sheer coverage and SPF 20 at your service. SO in love. Enjoy!

Price: $32, Available at Ulta, Sephora, Beauty.com and UrbanDecay.com

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Products mentioned in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

EO® Introduces All Purpose Soap!

One thing that solves all your problems. This is the stuff dreams are made of really, isn't it? Yes.

This week I put EO all purpose soap in the dishwasher, laundry, bathroom sink, and shower and I can happily say all of my worldly goods are chemical-free and clean. Have not yet been brave enough to wash my apples with it but apparently it does wonders for fruit as well. Note to EO: can you please work on an all purpose man, career, money cure?

Available in Lavender, Meyer Lemon, and Peppermint. Enjoy!

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Products in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

The food....MMMMMMM

I'm back in Durham where culinary delights are limited to locopops and Dos Perros. Still, my stomach is stuck in the gastrointestinal fantasy land that is The Ritz Carlton Palm Beach. Breeze, their sea-side burger bar (pictured above), is open from 11-7 daily with ocean-front tables and every imaginable combination of burger to delight every sense in your tanned, massaged, fully-flexible yoga body.

On weekends Sushi Joe is in the lobby serving up the best sushi I have ever put in my mouth. Then there is the Temple Orange where the breakfast buffet will literally blow your mind. Everything you can ever imagine eating for breakfast (besides the Chicken foot soup my Indonesian host mother used to serve me) is available and served on a silver platter. Enjoy!

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Some of the services on this trip were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Eau So Yoga with Jimmy Barkan at The Ritz Carlton, Palm Beach

A sunrise over the ocean which seemed oddly directed at my very own balcony. Flocks of pelicans flying over head and then - this morning, a solitary duck. Chilled waterfalls of relief pouring into luxuriously sized hot tubs. Hot tubs filled with playful over sized rubber ducks. Chocolate Mocha cupcakes on the spa bar. Massages that start with healing spoonfuls of honey and end with a limber flip of the upper body over top of the knees and suddenly you are born anew. Eau So New.

I've just returned from Palm Beach where I rang in the month of May with The Ritz-Carlton's Eau so Yoga weekend. Daily 90-minute yoga sessions overlooking the ocean were taught by yoga legend Jimmy Barkan. Until the late 90's Jimmy was the only certified Bikram trainer and in the early part of this century he developed his own teaching style aptly named, the Barkan Method.

I've become a bit of a yoga fanatic over these last four short months and class with Jimmy invigorated my practice with a gentle (manual) hip rotation here and subtle "ring finger forward" in downward dog" cue there. I'm also quite certain my hips now operate like a lazy Susan - no longer hinged in any one direction. I have never experienced hip openers like Jimmy's.

You can visit Jimmy at his own (twenty eight year old) studio in Ft Lauderdale or at any of his teacher trainings. Meantime, Eau So Yoga will happen during various weekends through out the summer. (Next weekend!) Check for dates here.

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Services in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Looking Out on the Morning: Eau So Yoga Day One

After a healing massage yesterday (details to come) and a restorative nights sleep I stepped on to my balcony at 6:30 am and watched the sunrise light the passing clouds on fire as it rose over the elderly Atlantic. Palm Beach is an odd sign post of America's growing pains but here with in the courtyards of the Ritz-Carlton the sun rises, the pelicans fly over head and everything you could ever imagine that you need is at your fingertips. Highlights from yesterday were numerous. Sushi - as in the best I've ever had. Sushi-Joe is your place for spicy, melt-in-your-mouth lobster rolls. Massage at Eau Spa. My body has never before been touched and relieved in that way. And a self centered garden which oddly enough, left me relaxed enough to see how disenchanted I have become with my own self centered-ness.

Eau So Yoga starts at 8:30 am with ninety minute class from sought out instructor Jimmy Barkan. Like the clouds who where unknowingly transformed by the sun's reach for the aging east coast on this beautiful spring morning, I have a feeling I'm in for a transformation I could neither plan nor imagine. Such things are only in the mind of the world's most expert hospitality angels, the ladies and gentleman of the Ritz-Carlton.


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Some of the services (not the Lobster Rolls) mentioned in the post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Eau So Yoga, The Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach

I've searched the world over to bring you what I think will be the best yoga/beach retreat imaginable.

This weekend I will attend, in your honor, the first of two spring yoga retreats at The Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach. If you haven't booked your tickets yet, call AirTran now and join us! There is no better way to introduce yourself to the legendary Eau Spa by Cornelia.

The Eau So Yoga package features guestroom accommodations, ocean view morning yoga classes (90 minutes with Jimmy Barkan May 1 & 2; then with Keith Fox May 8 & 9), integrative mind-body work sessions, daily breakfast and access to Eau Spa by Cornelia to linger and lounge in the Self-Centered Garden and Bath Lounge all starting at $299 per night. We'll see you there!

Alba Botanica Hawaiian Spa Line

I've been wanderlusting all over myself this spring. When I need to add visceral weight to my imaginings I tend, as in all my other needs, to turn to my skin care. This spring I'm headed to the rain forest and Hawaii with my new favorite earth-friendly brand, Alba. Yes I fell for their rain forest face wash several months back but not until the new Hawaiian line landed in my beauty closet did I remember their rain forest moisturizer in there as well. My skin now has the glow of a college student newly returned from months upon months of life-changing globe trotting. Skin-changing globe trotting can be had right in your local whole foods. While Whole Foods is obviously seriously lacking in its ability to fulfill all beauty needs, it's skincare section - specifically it's Alba corner, rocks.

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Products in this post were provided at no cost for editorial review.

Saint Lucia’s Bay Gardens Resorts Introduces La Mer Spa

St Lucia's famous Pitons were named by O Magazine as one of the places you must visit in this lifetime. More than any other location in the Caribbean, they have always called to me. Now, when I visit I'll know where to get my favorite OPI colors after roughing it up with Bay Gardens Resorts in house dive shop and scaling those majestic peaks.

After fifteen years as the island's favorite four star resort, Saint Lucia’s Bay Gardens Resort has opened the full service La Mer Spa featuring OPI, Creative Nail Designs and Pevonia Skincare products. In other words, I'll see you in Saint Lucia.

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Sissy Toes by My Little Sis!

This will be my most favorite blog post ever, mostly because it was written by my little sister who is the cutest 8 year old on the planet. She has decided she wants to be a writer and a blogger. I decided she didn't have to wait. She has also had more mani-pedi's than most women will ever have in their entire life time. For this one she chose OPI Blue My Mind. She is the cutest!!!

My sister is the best sister ever ! This weekend we had the my half b-day weekend! My sister picked me up from school Friday afternoon. We did: go and eat custard - it was amazing! We had movie night! The next day we got sissy toes it was so fun and relaxing! Then we went to this amazing sushi place now we watch Alvin and the Chipmunks! I'll write some time soon again!

-Sissy, also known as the best sister ever!

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OPI Teal the Cows Come Home

Picking a nail color used to be like picking a good apple. Based on defined set a parameters (trend, availability, and texture) I'd always end up in season but in a way that was emblematic of my personal taste (matte/Audrey for nails; Pink Lady, Granny Smith for apples).

Then my yoga obsession changed everything. OPI's Teal the Cows Come Home has nothing to do with my historic personal style. It is NOT matte. It is sparkly, metallic, teal like the jewels of northern New Mexico's native's wares laid on Mexican blankets in the town plaza. And I'm thinking of stock piling it in case OPI ever ..well let's not even talk about that.

I will never wear anything else. There was only one criteria for picking this color. In yoga, we do a lot of reaching for our fingertips and toes. I would follow this color to the ENDS of the Earth. I feel inches taller when reaching towards this mermaid, yogini, native American sparkly teal. OPI - I HEART YOU. You can also get your new Dell in Teal the Cows Come Home or any other member of the Hong Kong Collection. No Really.

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Beep, Beep: Look Out for the Blissmobile in Los Angeles

Remember when I found Bliss by Pedi-colada @ their LA outpost? I know, I know hard to forget. Lucky for you, (at least those of you who live in LA) Bliss is now mobile, packed with special offers and easier to find. Check out the hottest 44 year old (VW) in LA at the appearances listed below.


Wednesday, April 7th

8:00am-10:00am Larchmont Village
10:45am-12:45pm Westwood Village
1:30pm-4:00pm Circling the UCLA Campus and Westwood area


Thursday, April 8th

12:00pm-1:30pm Universal Studios
2:00pm-3:00pm Ventura starting at Laurel Canyon
3:45pm-6:00pm The Farmers Market on La Cienega and 18th
6:30pm-8:00pm The Grove

Friday, April 9th

12:00pm-3:00pm Santa Monica Beach/Pier
3:30pm-5:00pm Venice Beach
5:45pm-8:00pm Downtown Culver City

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Where do you Yoga/Beach/Spa/Getaway? Hawaii Edition

If Cinnamon Orange Tea & Full Body Skin Brushing (stimulating your lymphatic system) aren't your thing, perhaps Yoga on the Beach and consistently high rankings by Conde Nast Traveller will convince you. Alternately the name itself can point you in the right direction. If you were, in fact, lucky enough to be Hawaiian SpaHalekulani would read, "House Befitting Heaven."

This spring, in our exhaustive search for the best Yoga/Beach/Spa girls getaway we bring you one of the world’s most acclaimed hotels. Having just unveiled Pure Renewal at SpaHalekulani the Spa now offers the ultimate 3 ½ hour detoxification experience which restores optimal well-being to the mind, body and soul. Your arrival is marked with the spa’s signature Foot Pounding. Lunch concludes with a Maui Pineapple, Mint & Ginger Smoothie. And yoga looks like this. Sign. Me. Up.

Welcome The Ritz-Carlton L.A.!

On this, the first Friday of April 2010, Los Angeles fetes the opening of it's most esteemed (and LEED certified!) hotel, The Ritz-Carlton.

With all of the dignity that arrives on the shoulders of any Ritz-Carlton property, perhaps one of our nations dear, old, artistic centers might finally be wrest from the grip of celeb-starved paparazzi and legions of zombie-fied realty television alums. Or at least we now know where to go for a reprieve, while keeping our focus firmly on the city's artistic gems.

As the first luxury hotel of its caliber in Downtown Los Angeles and just steps away from STAPLES Center, Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE, The GRAMMY® Museum and a variety of dining and other entertainment options, The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles provides guests with an oasis from the activity of the city as well as the convenience of being seconds away from the heart of one of the most exciting parts of Los Angeles.

“We are proud that The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles is a part of L.A. LIVE and the renaissance of Downtown Los Angeles,” said General Manager Javier Cano. “The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles provides another dimension to this exciting and active area, which is now a true destination for travelers and local residents.”

Perched on the upper floors of the 54-story tower that it shares with sister hotel the JW Marriott Los Angeles at L.A. LIVE and The Ritz-Carlton Residences at L.A. LIVE, The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles has 123 well-appointed guestrooms, including 14 suites. The 3,000 square-foot Ritz-Carlton Suite is the hotel’s largest and boasts incredible northern and western views. The luxurious suite includes a piano and entertainment room, media corner, lounge, kitchen and formal dining area.

Featuring elegant, contemporary décor by renowned Los Angeles firm, Barry Design, and some of the city’s best views of Downtown L.A., the hotel provides guests with an exclusive retreat. Designed by Gensler, the hotel and luxury condominium tower will be LEED-certified and is owned by Los Angeles-based AEG, developer of the four million square foot L.A. LIVE, and MacFarlane Partners.

The hotel is home to Downtown L.A.’s only full-service hotel spa, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, a luxurious, 8,000-square-foot sanctuary that is designed to reflect the glamour and excitement of Los Angeles in a calming yet sophisticated environment. With nine treatment rooms, two customized aromatherapy steam rooms, cold plunge showers and two relaxation lounges, the Spa offers guests a true respite. The experience is further enhanced by iPod docking capability for each treatment table, which allows guests to have fully customizable music for their treatments. Featuring the finest products available, the Spa offers services that range from The Ritz-Carlton Signature organic experiences in massage and skincare to results-oriented, cosmeceutical-grade skin care. The “Champagne and Shimmer” theme of the Spa is highlighted with treatments that include the Glowing Gold Facial and the Champagne and Citrus Scrub.

We know exactly where to stay on our next trip to this angelic city. Enjoy!

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