Fun and Games: Throwing Your Own Superbowl Party

Essentials for watching the game and cheering your team!

Superbowl Parties can be a great way to kick back with friends in a super-relaxed way. So prepare to host this year's Superbowl Game in comfy cozy style.

Zooop It Up in this cool Adult American Flag Onsie 80% soft cotton terry with two zippered side pockets and two hand pockets up front. So cozy and perfect for watching the game and cheering your favorite team. Unisex means you can get one for your guy too. Check them out at ZooopItUp.com

Zooop It Up on game day in these cozy adult designer onesies.

Game Time Snackage
Try going light and organic with some delicious, ultra fresh popped corn from G. H. Cretors. Since 1885 this family has been making their famous popcorn in small batches. A 3 3/4 cup serving is only 150 calories. Lightly sea salted, this is gourmet popcorn to cheer about. Make it more festive by serving them in these nostalgic movie theater popcorn boxes. Visit GHCretors.com online for all the popped corn flavors and store locations.

G. H. Cretors Organic Popped Corn

Burgers Done Light

I like to use my Panini Grill press to make toasty sandwiches and grill turkey burgers. You can make lower fat Cluck n Moo Burgers which have about 50% less fat than whole beef patties. You really can't tell the difference. They are delicious. With my Panini Grill, I can make them to order for my guests, up to four at a time. Below are Cluck n' Moo Burgers with Kale! You can make your own too using 1/2 ground turkey or ground chicken and 1/2 ground beef.

Cluck n Moo Burgers with Kale

Red's All Natural Burritos

These natural burritos are perhaps the closest to my own homemade versions. My favorite? The Chicken of course! Other varieties include steak, beans, beef and cheese all of which are super delicious. Find Red's at the frozen food section at Wegman's or visit online at RedsAllNatural.com

Red's All Natural Burritos

Hot Wings with Sriracha Chili Ketchup

Hot Wings are pretty much a staple of all tailgate and game time celebrations. If you are making your own from scratch, try using Lee Kum Kee Sriracha Chili Ketchup. It has a delicious kick without being burning hot. It can also be used on burgers, hot dogs and more for a little extra zing. See all the great Lee Kum Kee sauces and condiments at LKK.com

Lee Kum Kee - Hong Kong Sriracha Chili Ketchup makes hot wings sing!

Deli Sandwiches

These are easy enough to do. Get some rye and whole wheat bread and fill them with pastrami, corned beef, ham, etc. You can also order a huge sub and cut it into sections.  Set out the various kinds of mustard and mayo so your guests can help themselves. Easy!

Lattes

I like to make a pot of coffee and let guests help themselves. I like the Krups Latteccino Machine as it has a milk frother on the side and can make all kinds of brewed gourmet coffee treats.

Have Your Cake and Eat it Too

Even your gluten and dairy free friends won't feel left out with these new, delicious Whoopie Pies by the Piping Gourmets. They are called that because Amish farmers would find them in their lunch pail and yell "Whoopie!" Martha Stewart just had a recipe showing how to make heart shaped - strawberry creme filled ones for Valentine's Day. The Chocolate Cake ones are my favorites and they can be served frozen or thawed. They even look like little footballs! Yum. Check them out at ThePippingGourmets.com

Clothing, foods and products c/o the companies so listed and included herewith

New Skiwear Collection - Lole Sidonie Bib

2015 Skiwear with attitude. Lole Sidonie Bib

Winter 2015 is shaping up to be the season of bibs! Why are they trending so hot on the slopes this year? Well, perhaps because they are more technical and streamlined than ever. Nothing like what Fire Fighters wear! No, get that image out of your mind. The New 2015 Skiwear Collection from Lole will rock your world.

Lole Sidonie Bib
Here is the Description from the Lole Website:

Redefine snow slop chic in our modern update on the insulated bib. Get an edge on the slopes with its performance fit, breathable and waterproof four-way stretch fabric and powerful snow-stopping features. The supple Ski Softshell waist, slim legs with snow gaiters, and fully sealed seams keep the warmth in and the snow out. Articulated knees move with you and kick patches stand up to a day of endless powder runs. 

Lole Sidonie Bib

• Insulated bib 
• Softshell waist with center-front zipper to seal out snow 
• Adjustable, removable elastic suspenders 
• Two hand pockets with YKK® AquaGuard® zippers 
• Two zippered pockets with flaps on back 
• One zippered patch pocket with flap on leg 
• Mesh vents on inner legs 
• Slim leg with zipper opening 
• Gusset at leg hem 
• Abrasion-resistant kick patches 
• Snow gaiters 
• Fully seam sealed 
• Inseam 32 in./ 81.5 cm 




Sidonie Ski Bib Details
These bibs have a softshell feel with a hardshell attitude towards the elements. It sheds wind, snow and moisture like a duck and has some very tricked out details to keep you warm AND dry. Mesh Vents on the inner legs help prevent moisture and heat build up during heavy outdoor activity.

Mesh Vents on Inner Legs

Fully Seam Sealed Zippered Pockets
I really like like the two hand pockets up front. They have AquaGuard zippers so when you take a forward spill, the pockets and whatever is in them will stay nice and dry. 

AquaGuard zippered front pockets

Slim Legs with Zippered Openings
I like my ski and athletic bibs to have zippered legs as this is essential feature that makes getting them on an off much easier. The Sidonie also have built in gaiters which adjust to keep out wind and snow.

Generous zippered legs

Rear View - Two Zippered Pockets with Flaps on Back
I really like the abundance of seam sealed zippered pockets on theSidonie Bibs. A great place to stash tissues, SPF Lip Balm and some cash.

Rear View - Zippered Flap Pockets

The Wrap
I really like the slimmer fit of the Sidonie Ski Bibs.  I had merino wool base layer tights and shirt underneath when I went out as it was snowing today. I really didn't need the base layer as these insulated bibs were plenty warm on their own even in 19 degree weather. The stretch at the waist is genius and the center zipper is very comfortable. 

Lole Sidonie Bib with Ski Boots

The suspenders are also SO very comfortable and easy to adjust on the fly. Really perfect for all winter-snow sports.  Pop on your favorite ski jacket and hit the slopes in the Sidonie Bib which come in Black (as shown), White and Yellow. See them and the full 2015  Lole Winter Skiwear Collection at Lole.com

Ski/Snowboarding Helmet by Giro
This season's hottest snow lid around is Giro's Discord. Soft shell construction and ultra padded, it is very comfortable to wear. Has thermostat control, stack vent, vertical tuning and what I really like, a super padded strap with cozy ear covers. Perfect for all snow sports as shown here in Matte Dark Shadow. Check it out at Giro.com

Giro Discord Snow Sports Helmet

Moonstone Goose Down Ski Jacket

Slouch Foxie Cap by Pistil Designs
Ski Bibs c/o LoleWomen.com

New Year's Eve in Altuzarra's Red Wrap Dress, Sam and Libby Over the Knee Boots

Red Wrap Dress by Joseph Altuzarra, Suede Boots by Sam & Libby

New Year's Eve in NYC in the area of Times Square is often called the biggest controlled riot on earth! I'm often in that area and there as always a current of pure electricity in the air. Whether you plan to join the crowd there to ring in the New Year or enjoy a toast at home with friends, you can look sensational doing it. Here are some style tips from top fashion designer, Joseph Altuzarra and shoe makers, Sam & Libby.

Lady in Red
Studies have shown that men are more attracted to women wearing the color red. Why not use that little factoid to your advantage?  Stop being a wall flower and take center stage by wearing: a red cap, scarf, top or go all the way in a RED DRESS!

Altuzarra Red Wrap Dress

Joseph Altuzarra's Red Wrap Dress
I picked up this dress from Altuzarra's Fall 2014 Capsule Collection for Target. If you look at his Fall 2014 runway show, you will see a similar but more complicated dress design in WHITE. As you can see, the fabric has a bit of sheen which makes you look somewhat like a gift wrapped present. There you go! This dress has a high empire waist and the included fringed belt is poetry in motion when you walk. Talk about fringe benefits.

All wrapped up...like a present.

This dress has a full zippered back

This dress has a full zipper in the back so it helps getting into it. The only thing I have an issue with is the wrap situation at the bust line. It will flop open on you so I would recommend putting a pin or jewelry there. Remember, Altuzarra is especially known for his high skirt slits! So this is what it looks like when you sit down.

Altuzarra Wrap Dress seated.

I am wearing Hanes Silk Reflections in Barely Black hosiery here but you can go with a bit more opacity for extra coverage. The back of the dress falls below the knee and hits the top of my boots. All things considered, I'm glad I got in on his capsule collection this season as this dress is a classic and very well made to dance the night away!

Sam & Libby Over the Knee Suede Boots
I wanted to contrast the shimmery sheen of the dress with the soft matte texture found with these Sam & Libby Boots. These are easily 5 inch heels and the rim of the sole is done in gold. The back has laces with gold grommets and tassel accents with a small zipper on the inside seem. This gives them a comfortable fit around the ankles.

Back Details on the Sam & Libby Boots

The back cuff of the boot is open which makes them easy to walk in. I've had a pair of thigh-high leather boots before and it was almost impossible to bend your knees in them! Not so with these. They fit amazingly for me as I wore them to lunch at Ruby Tuesday's. These are quality boots from Sam & Libby who are also known for their dress shoes.

Altuzarra dress and Sam & Libby boots.

JLo Tortoise Framed Rx Sunglasses-Mine
Dress & Boots-Mine

Holiday Gift Guide - Cozy Comfy Soothing Presents to Relax With

OnePiece Lusekofte Onesie from OnePiece.com

Christmas in New York! Warm, toasty, comfy and soothing all describe this Holiday Gift Guide of presents for you or someone special. Like to be pampered? These are the kind of gifts that work well with: lounging around the house, sipping hot cocoa, having a soothing foot massage or snuggling up on the couch on a cold winter's night. Here are my tried and true comfy favorites!

Ugg Sheepskin Slippers

UGG Women's Rylan Slippers in Chocolate
Everyone knows UGG for their sheepskin boots and many of us wear them around the house. All the same these Rylans are the ultimate bedroom slippers for after a warm shower or bath. Fully lined with soft, fluffy sheepskin fleece, the super soft cuff helps keep cold chills out. These have full rubber soles so they can take a trip outside in the snow to fetch the paper. Available at Nordstom, Lord & Taylor, The Walking Company and other major department stores.

Moccis Swedish Made Wool Sock Slippers

Moccis Washable Wool and Leather Sock Slippers
If you've ever had the pleasure of sampling Swedish woven fabrics like those originally available from Hanna Andersson,you will really appreciate how soft and warm these sock slippers are. Made in Sweden, they are machine washable and have real leather skid proof soles. Hand sewn, they have double elastic cuffs so they stay on.

Moccis Moccasins

Made of 80% wool, 10% Polyamid and 10% Lycra, they do not itch or prickle. These are amazing to wear. Visit them at Moccis.co.uk

Raymond Pettibon 100% Cotton Artist Pajamas

Raymond Pettibon for SMMoA Santa Monica Museum of Art + Bed Head Pajamas
This is a fabulous set of 100% Egyptian cotton, women's pajamas done in collaboration with local artists in support of the Santa Monica Museum of Art. These trendy, designer pajamas are by: Joyce Pensato, Raymond Pettibon and Yutaka Sone with Benjamin Weissman under the "Sleeping with SMMoA" Collection. All are original designs by these acclaimed contemporary artists and produced right in Los Angeles.

Sleeping with SMMoA Collection of artist pajamas

This is the set to wear for that holiday brunch at your place and late night champagne toasts. Has a chest pocket and stylish piping all around. Very roomy and wearing them to bed is like sleeping in a cloud. Simply fabulous! Preview and purchase them at Art Markit

OnePiece Original Slim in Wine Purple by OnePiece.com

OnePiece Original Slim Onesie in this very grapey Wine Purple. Comes in Unisex Sizes XXS-XL 
This is the Norwegian Original OnePiece which will go great with the Swedish Moccis sock slippers! The brainchild of three Norwegians in their twenties, the slimmer fitting OnePiece shown here is 95% cozy cotton so it breathes. The OnePiece Lusekofte in Pink shown in the lead photo has a fuller cut but made of the same cottony knit. Cuffed at the ankles and wrists with a full zippered hood, they keep out the winter chill. Little extras like the front and side zippered pockets make these Onesies stand out. Comes with a black satiny Sleep Mask too. LOTS of gorgeous styles. Check them all out online at OnePiece.com

Big Feet 100% Cotton Flannel Footed PJ's

Big Feet 100% Cotton Flannel Footed PJ's
These are the ultimate in warmth and snuggling up! Made of 100% cotton flannel, they are breathable and soft to wear. I ordered mine with a "rear door" which has a Velcro closure. The Big Feet PJ's are different from the usual Polar Fleece fabric lounge and sleepwear as 100% cotton flannel is so much more comfortable to wear. These are actually TOO warm for bed for my tastes but super for lounging around the house on a snowy winter's night. Add a cup of hot chocolate and you're there! Available from Big Feet PJ's Company.

Monogrammed V-Necked Performance Shirt from MyLocker.com

Monogrammed V-Necked Performance Shirt
This stretchy polyester shirt comes with monogramming on both the front and back. Very flattering fit, it is comfortable against the skin and can be used for layering. Check it out at MyLocker.com

My Locker.com Monogrammed Flannel Pants & Stance Socks

My Locker.com 100% Cotton Flannel Lounge Pants with Monogram
Add a personal touch to your holiday gift with these toasty flannel drawstring pants from MyLocker.com. Creating my unique monogram was really easy and there is a large selection of designs for your business, the holidays, your favorite team and more. Extremely soft and roomy, these will become a wintertime favorite. Pair these up with the V-Necked Performance Shirt shown above plus the Stance Wool Blend Socks above in Winter Camp Wine and you are set for game time! 

Stance Fashion Socks- New Holiday 2014 Collection

Stance Fashion Socks New Holiday 2014 Collection
These are beautifully woven wool and cotton blend socks and just perfect for winter-fun. Part of the Holiday 2014 Collection, you can pair these with fashion boots as there are many mid-calf, knee length and over the knee designs to choose from. On the left are the Reign Design in soft combed cotton. 
On the right are the Archer White Over the Knee Socks. They are the infinity roll Langley Fox Hemingway for Stance style. Soft and cozy they are made with SuPima cotton and have deep heel cups for extra comfort. See all the new holiday 2014 styles at Stance.com

Warms you from the inside. Klean Kanteen Insulated Bottles

Klean Kanteen's New Matte Finish 12oz Vacuum Insulated Container in Coyote Brown
I absolutely adore my Klean Kanteens and take them with me for my commute into NYC and everywhere else. This new 12 oz size in a sweet, matte Coyote Brown is enough for a shot of espresso or a good sized cup of coffee to go. Stays REALLY hot too and for 6+ hours. We take these skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh riding and it is the best thing to warm up with. Check them out at KleanKanteen.com

And after all of that Christmas shopping, a soothing Foot Massage!

Topricin Deluxe Foot Therapy Spa Set
Just what you or a loved one needs after being on one's feet all day! After a warm bath or foot soak, break out this deluxe spa set for the ultimate in tootsie pampering. The Topricin Foot Therapy Cream is amazing as I use it for serious foot pain from running and skating. It has also saved the day after my walk from Midtown to Soho! See this and the other Topricin Pain Cream Gift Sets at Topricin.com. Here's what is included in the Deluxe Foot Therapy Spa Set:

The Ultimate Foot Retreat 

A treat for your feet! Specially formulated to target feet and ankles, Topricin Foot Therapy Cream moisturizes and sooths tired, achy feet while healing the damage that causes pain—naturally, without grease or odor. All Topricin products are safe for diabetics.

The Deluxe Topricin Foot Therapy Spa Set includes:

• 
  
• (1)2oz Topricin Foot Therapy Cream
• (1)4oz Jar of Topricin Foot Therapy Cream
• Callus Remover
• Pedicure Set
• Zipper Case 4pc
• 2pc Toenail Trim
• Foot Reflexology Chart
• Topricin Sample Envelope
• Dark Teal Fabric Bag

Sooth your soles with Topricin Foot Therapy Cream—which is patented for treating fibromyalgia and neuropathy, and is safe for diabetics

Just for ME under the tree!

UGG Rylan Sheepskin Slippers - Mine
Clothing and accessories c/o the respective designers and companies listed herewith.

Holiday Gift Guide - Audiophile Headphones from Lamborghini, SkullCandy, Jaybird and Audio-Technica

Head and earphones for every kind music lover on your list!

Just like our iPhone or Androids, we all like to take our beats with us wherever we go. During my commute into Manhattan, I've found the ride in to be that much sweeter by listening to some tunes. When I take my morning run, they also accompany me as it's been shown that people who take music along exercise LONGER than those who don't.
These headphones and in-ear earphones make super gifts this year and are the best of the best to please even the most discriminating audiophile.

For the Working DJ or Recording Artist: Audio-Technica's Limited Edition ATH-M50xBL (Blue) Professional Monitor Headphones 
These pro level headphones will please the professional musician, DJ (or those who aspire to be), on your list this year. This is the Limited Edition version of Audio-Technica's top rated ATH-M50 model headphones. They come with THREE interchangeable cables and plug neatly into your iPhone, Android, Mp3 player or iPad. Earpads are comfy for long wearing time and these earphones come with their own soft matching carry pouch. The sound quality is off the chart but just what you'd expect from professional studio headphones. Check out my more technical review at Eclectic Sound.
Visit AudioTechnica.com for details.

In the Studio: Audio Technica's LTD ED ATH-M50x

For the Fashionista - Knockouts Headphones by SkullCandy
These are so much punchy fun! I wear these for a morning walk or run and they stay on just fine. Someone who has an eye for fashion and color will LOVE these. Knockouts come with a detachable cable and remote volume control. Comes with a matching carry pouch with pretty gold accents. The sound quality is very good but the styling on the Aqua and Floral patterns are a real Knockout! Visit SkullCandy.com

SkullCandy's Knockouts with matching carry pouch

SkullCandy Knockouts in Floral Pattern

For the Bon Vivant Jet Setter - Tonino Lamborghini Mobile EL-01 Quantum in Ear Headphones
Yes, you heard right. Lamborghini...the luxury sports car has the most luxe in ear earphones you can imagine. These come with extra interchangeable earpieces for the perfect fit. Soft cloth covered cables with easy access to controls. What will truly blow you away is the incredible sound quality, namely the rockin' bass that is simply incredible. Lamborghini earphones come in their own triangular zippered carry case and have their bull logo on it as well as the earphones. Check them out at Tonino Lamborghini Mobile

Tonino Lamborhini Mobile In Ear Earphones

For the Fitness Freak - Jaybird Bluebuds X Bluetooth Ear Buds
Hailed as the best Bluetooth ear buds on the market today, you will enjoy the incredible freedom and long 4 hour battery life these have to offer. Comfortable to wear, there's no worries over getting tangled in wires or cables. Remote control is on the strap.  These are the perfect ear buds for those who like to bicycle, walk or run with a bit of music. These are the official training headphones for the USA Triathelon team due to their lifetime guarantee against sweat.

These stay in your ears very well and also have interchangeable pieces for a perfect fit. The sound quality is excellent and you get a high tech "On Star" sounding voice telling you when your power is on, off or low. Comes in a protective black magnetic closure case with recharging USB cable. Check them out at the Jaybird Bluebuds website!

Jaybird Bluebuds

Headphones c/o respective manufacturers so mentioned here.

Pineda Covalin's Holiday 2014 and Resort 2015 Fashion Preview

Women's Silk Scarf and Carry All Bag

Soho, NYC In celebration of the opening of Pineda Covalin's new Soho store on Mercer Street, the media was treated to a feast for the eyes at Nespresso Cafe. Pineda Covalin hails from Mexico as the brainchild of two young fashion designers, Christina Pineda and Ricardo Covalin. This fashion house began in 1996 and is headquartered in Mexico City. Their textiles and designs use traditional Aztec and Mayan motifs while collaborating with other designers and jewelers including Swarovski and Jose Cuervo to name a few. 

Lovely silk scarves and jewelry from Pineda Covalin's latest Holiday and Resort Collections.

So here are some of my favorite selections from the Nespresso Cafe in Soho preview and the new Pineda Covalin store itself:

Filed under "Man-Bag" handsome leather 24 hr carry all.

Mexican Self Portrait Painter and wife of Artist, Diego Rivera Frida Kahlo silk scarf.

Pineda Covalin Ladies Handbags, and colorful clutches below.

Sculpture statue celebrating Mexico's "Day of the Dead"

Pineda Covalin's New Soho Location

Once again, this Holiday 2014 and Resort 2015 preview coincides with the celebratory opening of Pineda Covalin's new store in Soho. They are neighbors to Ivanka Trump and Phillip Lim's trendy studio. Here are some shots of the Mercer Street shop.

Pineda Covalin show plays on the wide screen above.

Flowing, cool resort wear.

Bags with Matching Silk Scarves

Bright colors and bold ethnic patterns abound.

Special thanks to the lovely LeAura Luciano of EverSoPopular.com for taking photos of me!

Visit PinedaCovalin.com online!