Fine Dining in NYC

Hello All!!

I had a fabulous night out in TriBeca NYC last week at DYLAN Prime. I enjoyed a filet mignon cooked to perfection accompanied by a spectacular pumpkin pie with warm apple cider. What a wonderful night in a great setting. It was a little empty for a weekend night, but all the better...I could actually hear what I was talking about. I definitely recommend this restaurant if you are looking for a superb steak in a great setting. It is right by the Holland Tunnel, very easy access. We had great service on top of great food, my only warning is just be prepared to spend.

Anyone have any restaurant recommendations?

HD Foundation!

So, I decided to try Make Up Forever's HD Foundation last week, and let me tell you, I love it!! I have been using DiorSkin Nude for a year or two now, but I think I am officially changing. The consistency of this foundation is so silky and smooth, it feels as though you have nothing on, yet provides full coverage of any imperfections. The only downside I can think of is that there isn't an SPF component. My advice on that is that you shouldn't be relying on your foundation for broadband sun protection, because SPF 12 is not adequate. You should be using a moisturizer or sunscreen by itself at a minimum of SPF 30. I don't care if it's winter or cloudy, it is always so important to protect your skin!! Stay safe, and let me know if you try this foundation, and your thoughts. I picked it up at Sephora!!

A Very Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!! So much to be thankful for each and every day!!

What are you doing for Thanksgiving??

New Anti-Aging Regimen, Help me!!

Hello all,

Just decided to buy the "Help Me" retinol anti-aging product by Philosophy. A friend of mine has been raving about their anti-aging arsenal, and I finally decided to take the plunge and purchase one of the less powerful retinol products they have. I have extremely sensitive skin that has just come out of a horrendous battle with cystic acne over the last year, so I am very cautious when introducing new products, and especially wary that it may cause an outbreak. I will let you know how this product works, if at all. Wish me luck!!

You can check this product, and other philosophy products here.

Holiday Shopping Savings!!

Gearing up for holiday shopping?? Click the link below for ebates savings to the rescue!! Ebates gives CASH BACK discounts and other promo codes at the most popular online stores. I have been a member for years and love getting checks in the mail for purchases I would have made anyway! Click away the link below!

Enjoy and happy shopping :D

Happy Halloween!!!

Happy Halloween!!!!!

And the Lace Trend Continues.....

I am a huge fan of blazers....and I found a way to incorporate this fall's lacey trend with one of my staples...a lace blazer!! You can dress this up with a dress or use it casually on the weekends with a pair of dark skinny jeans and some flats. A very versatile and effortless look. This jacket also has hidden shoulder pads to add some structure. If you are wondering where I found this...it was at the Saks Outlet. Happy Shopping!

Here's a close up:

More Animal Print-- My New Shoes

Check out my new shoes!! More animal print.....These were a great find for under $100 ($99.99 to be exact) at...

Ann Taylor

What do you think??

Ferragamo Miss Vara Large Hobo

I had the pleasure of trying on the Miss Vara Large Hobo by Salvatore Ferragamo today. Yet again, Ferragamo has me at hello.....this bag has the most supple leather, accompanied by meticulous craftsmanship I have come to expect from Ferragamo. Year after year, they never fail to uphold to this reputation. Tried and true, I always return to a good 'Gamo bag or, of course, a magnificent Italian made shoe. The bag features a magnetic closure and flaps over....sorry, no zippers. Don't be misled by the photograph, this bag is large (19" W x 17" H, 4" D), but fits perfectly under your shoulder.

I especially like this bag in Cognac Leather, or Python..but the Python will set you back about double the price of the one pictured below. I know it's steep, but it's a beauty that you can draw inspiration from if the price point is unfathomable for your needs.

Salvatore Ferragamo Miss Vara Large Hobo ($1450 @ Ferragamo Boutiques):

shoes, Shoes, SHOES!!! YUM!!

Okay...so I definitely had a fabulous Sunday afternoon perusing the latest styles so, I'm going to start off with SHOES!!!!!!!

These are the ones that caught my eye today:

1) The Gucci "Tile" High Heel ($495 @ Gucci) I like these in Black Suede.

2) Gucci Debra High Heel Platform ($525 @ Gucci) I like these in Burgundy.

3) Valentino Leather Platform Pumps ($695 @ net-a-porter.com) I like these in nude.

Stila Primer Does it ALL!

I think One Step Correct by Stila rocks!! It is a three in one corrector to be worn prior to applying makeup. It brightens, moisturizes, and refines lines for a flawless look to be complemented by the perfect foundation. If you need ideas for foundation I suggest Dior Skin Nude for a dewy natural look.

REMINDER: As always, catch the latest trends at Sephora !!

SAKS Friends and Family

HURRY!!! Time is running out to save at SAKS- Friends and Family discount ends tonight!!!

They sure now how to make a girl feel special :)

The BEST Mascara (Unexpectedly)

Best Mascara Alert!!!

I have tried sooooooo many different products along the years (mostly at my favorite store, Sephora)- Lancome, Dior, Chanel, Givenchy, Buxom, Maybelline, to name a few, and was quite loyal to Dior Show, but I have to tell you, none really stack up to, yes, CoverGirl's Lash Blast. This was passed along to my by a friend to try out...at first I was hesitant since I am not that into the drugstore brands, but, this is really great mascara. So great infact, that I gave my friend a tube, who is a high end make-up aficionado, and even she agrees that this is one product done right by CoverGirl. It instantly adds volume to your lashes while separting them, to avoid the clumpies! Check it out here

Laser Hair Removal Update

Okay, so it has been about 8 months since I started laser hair removal treatments..and though I had my misgivings at first, I am pleased to announce that it actually works!! Now, I am not saying that there is no pain in this game, but, it is effective. If you can withstand feeling literally as though follicles of your hair are being burned, then, this is definitely a worthwhile investment. It is so nice to not have to keep up with the constant need for hair removal.

The most painful area is hands down the "brazilian" treatment. Please keep in mind that the laser is not precise like tweezing, it is a light that is about 1 inch, so, I am going to assume that sometimes they are zapping areas that are not supposed to be touched in that way. The brazilian treatment is much more painful that waxing, but, the hair falls out after one session. Little by little, the hair disappears if you keep up with the treatments (you need about 12!!!). I definitely recommend it if you are serious about nixing hair for good. As far as the long term effects go..I have yet to see how long this "permanence" lasts, but I would like to believe it will the effects will remain at least 10 years. I guess we will find out! Anyone else try laser hair removal?

Louis Vuitton Speedy!

So, I'm not a huge fan of Louis Vuitton, but for some strange reason, I love this special edition of the classic Speedy. This is the "Dentelle" version dating back to 2007- I know it's a bit dated, but I really love this bag! Goes to tell you that these accessories are timeless. Wish I could find this somewhere. It was going originally for $1420, nothing even close on ebay now- everything I saw was almost $3000!! Oh well!! Is it safe to say that some of these luxury items become investments? That's quite the return on a bag!

What do you think of the bag?

My New Jacket! Animal Print!

I am finally loving the animal print trend..just bought this jacket a few weeks ago at Off 5th, the SAKS outlet. I am a fan of that store..SAKS quality at a fraction of the price! It's a loose cut, three-quarter length sleeve jacket...looks great dressed up with all black, or casual with jeans!

What do you think of the jacket?

Close up:

Miami- For the Grown And Sexy

So...you want my advice about Miami? Here's the deal: hit up the Fountainebleau, end of story. This is one of the hottest hotels in South Beach, with sprawling pools, views of the ocean, and did I mention, one of the most exclusive party spots, LIV. Take my word for it, this is the place to be if you enjoy the see and be seen scene (i.e. celeb sightings, etc).

View of one of the pools:

How Hot Is This Watch?!?!

I don't know if you can tell by now, but I am a total watch addict!! I was just perusing through my favorite store websites, and came across this watch by Philip Stein. It's a two-tone chronograph watch with a snakeskin strap! How unexpected is that? Loving it!! Click here to see where it's from! Hope you like it.

Chic Rain Boots

I am loving these rain boots...they are by Hunter ($175 @ Saks). I have a pair of their regular Wellies in silver...wishing I could do a trade-in and get these instead. These are more polished and sophisticated than their original boots, which came in Hunter Green, Orange, and Yellow..ast the time I felt quite avant-garde getting them in silver, which seems pretty obsolete at this point! These would look great on your commute to work in colder east coast climates.



Find them here.

Happy Birthday To ME!!!

Another year has gone by, and I am very thankful for all the gifts in my life. I am especially thankful to be surrounded by such amazing people who have made this a special day for me.

This birthday, I decided to do something different and live a little!! I will be heading on a mini vacation in Miami!! Can't wait for some fun in the sun.

October is my month!! Let the party begin, each year is better and better!

Check out your monthly horoscope on my favorite website to get an idea of the things to come this month: http://astrologyzone.com/

I promise you won't be disappointed!

My Current Acne Fix

This acne clearing lotion has been my recent savior!! Dr. Dennis Gross created this lotion to put a stop to blemishes without irratiting your skin. One thing I like about it aside from getting rid of zits fast, is that it is invisible once you smooth it on. I originally received this product as a sample from Sephora. Being that I have had severe issues with my skin as of late, I was extremely hesitant to introduce any new products to my already aggravated skin. However, this product had no negative side effects, and even cleared up what I had. I highly reccommend it. Check it out here!! I know the price is a little steep at $32, but it's a small price to pay for clear skin without irritation or that annoying bleaching effect that other benzoyl peroxide products leave behind (even on towels :/!! ) I will definitely be trying other products by Dr. Gross.

My Birthday Wish..(one of them)

With my birthday coming up at the end of the week..figured I would start putting up things that I have been hoping and wishing for...one being the necklace below. Check it out here or click on the picture!

Clogs!!

I've never been very into clogs..but these are actually growing on me. I can envision these with a sexy skirt or skinny jeans..maybe even some leggings! These are See by Chloe, the wedge heel makes them more wearable, and probably more comfortable than the traditional clunky clogs.

Fall Means.....Fall FASHION!!

An update is well overdue!! Being that it is September, you know what that means! No, not back to school....it marks the arrival of Fall Fashion. This is my favorite time of year for fashion, as we can start wearing darker and more sophisticated outfits. I find it a hopeful time of year, where we start harvesting and getting ready for the winter. I may be biased since I am an October baby!!

Anyhow..what to look out for this fall:

- Animal Prints: I especially love an animal print platform pump, or an animal print bag.

- Neutral Colors: You can add this into your wardrobe anywhere, be it shoes, a belt, or a bag. Neutrals are always classic and never go out of style, so you might want to invest in a neutral in between season jacket as well.

- Military Style: This is my favorite!! No matter what the fashion is, I have always been partial to dark green and cargo pants. They look amazing with black. There are some military inspired shoes as well. If you find this trend to transient, a military fitted coat works great, double breasted with metallic buttons.

- Boots, boots, boots: I like the over-the-knee style in suede.

- Flap bags: A modern take on a classic style..a little chain detailing can modernize this timeless look.

- Don't forget lace!!: You can add a little flair to any outfit with lace trim, or a lace tank underneath a blazer...another style that really never fades.

I have some ideas pictured below for all budgets. I have to admit, Forever 21 is really making some great pieces so that all can enjoy, regardless of wha

t you can spend. As we all know, it's important to be cognizant of our spending during these times. I commend Forever 21 for making fashion affordable for everyone.

I have posted a mix of items for fall below- can you tell which are the high-end designers vs. items you can find anywhere? I will provide details of where to find these trends next time! Can you tell I have a thing for shoes?

Eyeing this Bag!

This bag looks so sweet- it's by Bill Blass. I haven't really cared for his designs in the past, but I came across a couple of really well made and trendy handbags on my internet shopping pursuits this afternoon. I am thinking about taking the plunge and getting it....what do you think??

(I wish the pics were bigger)

I HATE Cheap People

Hello, hello! Anyone else have this same gripe? I CANNOT stand cheap people!! Let's discuss.

Example:

I currently live with another person, we split utilities, rent, etc, etc. Recently, the person I live with, myself, and a group of other people went out for some drinks. We ended up having to pay in cash, which is never my method of choice. My roommate put up $10 for my portion of the bill- no biggie right? We proceeded to go to another place, and I took care of her drink there. Next up- we went on a trip a little over 200 miles away. I am the only one who has a car (lucky me?), so by default, I got stuck driving. The only "thank you" I received was some gas money. I didn't get a "thank you for sitting in traffic 4 hours, thank you for using your car, thank you for paying all the tolls (we are in NJ, yes we have tolls), but I let it go.

Enter the following week, when the utility bills and rent are due. I receive a check significantly lower than the usual, so I posed the question- how much was the electricity bill this month? I was received with a look of confusion "I don't know." How can you not know how much it was when you paid the bill two days ago?? The confession comes "I took out $10 for the bar (3 weeks ago)." At that point I lost it- are you seriously deducting $10 when I just paid for your cab ride two days ago, paid for your drink the same night AND drove all that distance, and did not get money for tolls, put all that mileage on my car, and did not even get a thank you?!?!?!

Is it just me or is that just low? There are many costs associated with a car when you live in a city- like parking. I would have appreciated a thank you and perhaps money for tolls, but I would have let it slide, had my roommate not been such a nickle and dimer. Just as an fyi I am in a profession that deals with the constant analysis of expenditures, and logically speaking, wouldn't one know better than to mess with someone like that, thinking that they are pulling some wool over my eyes. Not wise my friend, not wise. To top it off I had to hear all this whining and complaining about how my car was small, the trunk didn't have enough room for the high maintenance requirements of my traveling mates. News flash, I bought a coupe for a reason, because I don't feel like hauling unappreciative, entitled people, who can't afford a car themselves. Isn't life interesting?

YSL Mary Jane

Just when I thought YSL couldn't do anything more or new with the tribute, here it comes as a two-tone mary jane! I love this shoe!!

The Gatsby by Longchamp

Back to Summer!! This bag by Longchamp is perfect for the warmer weather, the colors are light and airy. The citrine is special edition, and normally I'm not into neon colors, but this is very tasteful...nice work Longchamp!!

Check it out here.

Christian Louboutin Fall 2010

These shoes are great for fall- I don't really want to think about that time of year just yet considering today was the first day of Spring, but I just can't turn away from a beautiful shoe!! The price- well, let's not talk about it..but just appreciate the craftsmanship and red soles :)

Great Works of Art

I love these paintings by Marc Chagall, can't wait to decorate my place with these!

Enjoy!

Italian Sunset

Just wanted to share these beautiful images of a sunset in Carlo Forte, Italy off the coast of the island of Sardinia. It is truly one of my favorite places to go in the summer...and you can actually see stars at night!! It is just a gorgeous place whose beaches are still relatively uncommercialized. A true gem of the Mediterranean!