What Makes French Perfume Timeless? The Mystique of Chanel, Paris

A fragrant walk through history

Paris, France is still considered the perfume capitol of the world and with good reason. Just think back to Empress Josephine's splashing the boudoir walls of Versailles with heady perfumes which can still be noted to this day! I have a precious little perfume bottle which belonged to my grandmother. The fragrance is still there, even though the bottle is empty. Yet is is just as I remember it as a child. 

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

Resort Season - Sunsets Swimwear SS2015 Preview and Ryan McGinley, Raymond Pettibon Artist Collaborations

Travel-Ready Essentials for Resort Season!

December kicks off the Resort Season as many of us may fly to warmer places for the holidays or book a Caribbean cruise to a tropical island. If so, you will need something to wear to the beach and spa. Actually the ORIGINAL American resort wear was Lilly Pulitzer with her bright, bold floral and organic patterns. Nowadays, many fashion designers have added a Resort Collection to their line which allows them to sell more clothes throughout the year. Resort pieces also make great holiday gifts if you know someone has booked a vacation to a sandy destination. They can also work for a trip to a day spa or a ski resort which often has a Swedish Sauna, Jacuzzi or indoor pool. I really like the Biosphere indoor/outdoor pool at Crystal Springs Resort in Sparta!

UPDATE! Lilly Pulizer will be collaborating with Target for SS2015. April 19th 2015 will launch a 250 piece capsule collection of specially designed travel gear, apparel, shoes and home goods. Look for "Lilly for Target".

Sunsets Separates Swimwear SS2015 Collection

Works on Whatever Limited Edition Towel is part of the 2014 Artist Series with this original design by Ryan McGinley. As part of a collaboration with the non-profit Art Production Fund and having support from Sotheby's, WOW brings art into the everyday. This luxurious beach-blanket towel is made of 100% cotton and made in Brazil, the perfect Resort destination! Earthlust Stainless Steel Bottle for Cold Beverages has original artwork by Raymond Pettibon. Beautiful! Check all the artist collaborations and collections at WorksOnWhatever.com and ArtMarkit.com

Sunsets Separates Swimwear Island Life Bikini

Sunsets Separates Swimwear SS2015 Collection has beautiful tropical palm designs and cool aqua colorways. The Island Life Style 68T bikini top has double straps with silver clasps and removable pads. The Style 31 B bikini bottom can be folded down or up for extra coverage and has their signature "Sunsets Separates" metal logo sewn on the back.

Island Life Matching Cover Up

Sunsets Island Life Style 960 Cover Up has ruched sides and flat lock seams at the arms. Perfect for when the sun goes down but you want to stay on the beach. Beautiful compliment to the Bikini Separates.

Sunsets Separates - Sea Glass Bikini Top, Bottom and Skort

Sunsets Separates give you many ways to enjoy the surf, pool or spa. I really like the selection of matching pieces as shown in the collage above. The Skort bottom gives you a little more coverage and has a comfortable elastic waistband. Lovely watercolor design reminds me of colored New Jersey Diamonds.

Sunsets Separates in Sea Glass & Merlin Designs beach tote

The Accessories: 
Shades- I like to pack a few pairs of sunglasses and take along the Converse All Star Collection as they are so lightweight. My Rx Sunglasses are in Tortoise Shell from the JLo Collection.

Earphones- I enjoy listening to music when traveling and while on the beach so the Skullcandy Supreme Sound Chops are part of their Sport Performance line for good reason. They are water-resistant and loop over your ears for a secure, hassle free fit.

Silver Vines Cuff from India

Bracelet- Silver Vines Cuff from WorldVision.org is made by local Indian artisans.  It goes with the laid back feel of resort season but adds a bit of sparkle for a night out. Proceeds go to helping third world communities raise their own food and become self sufficient.

Sandals- These are my favorite Gladiator Sandals by Mossimo Supply Company that I picked up at Target. Very easy to get into with the zipper in the back. Despite the four inch heel, they are platformed and so are really very comfortable to wear. I've worn them to pool parties that went on for HOURS and they are amazing. NOTE: Gladiators are trending heavy for SS2015.

Mimi Mini Satchel by Helmer and Converse Sunglasses

Bag- Exotic destinations call for an exotic bag. This is the Mimi Mini Satchel by Helmer in Python. Has a lovely top handle and adjustable carry strap. It's just big enough for your essentials for the day. Remove the strap and carry it as a clutch for evening.

Sunsets Separates Sheer Mesh Tankini & Bikini bottom in Black Sand Crochet

These Sunsets Separates are beautiful together! Sheer Black Sand Crochet mesh tankini top with matching fabric for the bottom. A bit of added coverage while looking very sensual. Mix or match to make your own signature swimwear look. See all of the current Sunsets Separates Swimwear at SunsetsSeparates.com and order pieces from their SS2015 Collection HERE.

Get a little color before you leave with FakeBake!

FakeBake Tanning Butter for Dry Skin is perfect for dry winter air that is part of this season. It really does go on like butter and a little goes a long way. Comes with gloves, the resulting color is very natural and deep. Visit FakeBake.com

Lole's Leena Dress shown in Campari is Travel Ready

Lole's Travel 2015 Collection
I enjoy my Lole fitness wear but this Faux Wrap Leena Dress caught my eye. Made with a combination of organic cotton, polyester and elastane, this dress earns its place in their Travel 2015 Collection. Cool, yet flattering to wear, it offers a UPF of 50+. Has a metal Lole Logo sewn by the right hem. I especially like the V-Neck, wrap lines and elbow length sleeves. Easy to wear right out of the suitcase with no ironing.
Vacationing in a snowy area for some skiing? Check out my review of Lole's Sidonie Ski Bib on LuckyMag.com HERE. See Lole's entire Travel 2015 Collection online at LoleWomen.com

The Perfect LBD for Travel

LBD to Go
I always like to pack a comfortable LBD when I travel. This one is in stretch cool cotton knit by Hanna Andersson. It has lovely, flattering princess seams and pockets. No zippers or clasps to dig in while sitting on the plane. Just slip it over your head. Travels really well and resists wrinkles. Who has time for ironing? Dress it up or down, wear it touring the town and then out to dinner. I'm wearing it here with my Black Onyx necklace my husband gave me last Christmas.

So this Resort Season, be sure to get in some "me time". I've found some lovely hats and bags shopping the resort stores while traveling on vacation. They have become some of my favorite souvenirs, reminding me of those special places every time I wear them!

Grabbing some coffee while shopping!

Hosiery by Bollywood
Swimwear c/o Sunsets Separates
Artist Towel and Water Bottle c/o WOW
Leena Dress c/o Lole

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

NYC Fashion Designers: Donna Degnan, Michael Kors and Joseph Altuzarra Holiday Outfit Ideas

Tis the season to be FABULOUS! NYC's top fashion designers show you how.

Christmas in New York is like no other place in the world. The smell of hot chestnuts roasting on the street corners to the Macy's Herald Square holiday windows, the city has it's own unique vibe. Seventh Avenue in Midtown is also known as Fashion Avenue and I've had the pleasure of meeting some of the top designers who made their start there such as Nichole Miller and Vera Wang.

This holiday look is based on neutral colors and tones with a minimum of flashy accents. Clean lines with a bit of texture and interest in the bag and boots makes it perfect for travel, shopping and enjoying the season. Here is what I am wearing:

Just in: Aaliyah Zip Front Tunic Vest & Adele Shirt by Donna Degnan

Aaliyah Zip Front Tunic Vest by Donna Degnan
This on trend long ponte knit vest is made in NYC by fashion designer Donna Degnan. This is a three season piece and there are SO many ways to wear it. Colder weather means layering a turtleneck and some opaque leggings underneath. Oh yes, Donna does those as well! Shown here in the color Vicuna, the side panels are 100% leather and the tunic is fully lined. The fabric portion of the tunic vest is has a bit of stretch and so is quite comfortable to wear. I really like the seam front pockets which makes this piece a travel-worthy companion. It resists wrinkles and packs well too. Extremely well made garment from top to bottom.

Adele Stretch Cotton Hi Lo Shirt by Donna Degnan

Adele Stretch Cotton Hi-Lo Shirt
I wear a size 6 in Ralph Lauren's women's dress shirts but the Adele fits me like a hand tailored blouse. So comfortable to wear under the Aaliyah Zip Front Tunic. Has just the right amount of stretch as it is a cool cotton-nylon-spandex blend. Made in NYC, it can be machine washed and line dried. Pair it with Donna Degnan's signature leggings or wear under your favorite suit to the office. Everyone NEEDS a white shirt. City chic all in one package! See both these designs and more at DonnaDegnan.com

My Bag: Knox Leather Tassel Hand Bag by Michael Kors

Knox Leather Tassel Hand Bag by Michael Kors
This black leather bag by Michael Kors is soft and supple but sturdy enough to handle the 5th Avenue crowd during rush hour! Yes, this bag can take a beating. Beautiful full grain leather with an inside zippered pouch and side pockets to hold your cell, keys, etc. Has an outside zippered pocket with his gold MK monogrammed emblem and luxurious leather tassel. Has rolled top handles and a adjustable shoulder strap. Extremely well made and just the right size.

MK Knox Leather Tassel Bag

Ankle Boots by Joseph Altuzarra
Ankle Boots like these are everywhere this season but I especially like the gold buckle, reptile texture and lace up details on these. Part of Altuzarra's Fall 2014 capsule collection for Target, I purchased these one half size larger than my usual shoe size due to the pointy toes. They fit great and don't gap too much around my skinny ankles! Easy to get on and off as they have a full sized zipper on the inside seam. Really these are the bomb as you can see and would work great with pants, leggings or a dress. So there you go...from the runway to your walkway...work it!

Ankle Boots by Joseph Altuzarra for Target

Foxie Ivory Knit Cap by Pistil Designs
Topping everything off is my cozy knit cap by Pistil Designs. This is a soft, knitted hat with a super fluffy pom pom on top. The Foxie reminds me of the Tam O' Shanters I used to wear as a child but so much more stylish! Has a metal plate with the Pistil name sewn on. Pretty, soft and warm for those cold snowy winter days. So I guess I can go ahead and dream of a White Christmas? I think so. See all the new Winter 2014-2015 hat and scarf fashions at PistilDesigns.com

Handbag and Ankle Boots-Mine
JLo Tortoise Shell Rx Sunglasses-Mine
Makeup by: Kett Cosmetics, Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Lipstick in Envious
Clothing and Accessories c/o Donna Degnan and Pistil Designs respectively.

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.

Holiday Gift Guide - Katy Perry Royal Revolution, Crabtree and Evelyn Musical Tin, Sublime Beauty Gifts

New on the list: Katy Perry's Killer Queen perfume, C & E's musical tin of hand creams

My 2014 Holiday Gift Guide is up so click here to see the latest trending gifts. This year the holiday trend is to go more nostalgic, honoring the timeless traditions of Christmas...but with a bit of glamour. These are some of my top beauty gifts guaranteed to wow the recipient (or yourself). These are over the top in style, presentation and substance!

Sublime Beauty Gift Boxed Sets

I really like Sublime Beauty Serums and Creams as I use them everyday, especially the Collagen and Retinol serums. I get so many compliments on my skin from makeup artists and estheticians whom I work with and can attribute much of that to this line. Sublime Beauty now has a way to share your favorite products this holiday season and they've done ALL the wrapping for you.

Sublime Beauty's Travel Set of Four: Vitamin C, Collagen, Retinol and Hyaluronic Serums

You can pick one, two, three or  get a set of four of your preferred serums and products which arrive in a lovely bowed box ready to set under the tree. The serums are in airless pumps so no worries when traveling on the plane. Some of these sets even come with jewelry like these multiple strand pearl necklace and drop earrings I wore to the Ice Theatre of New York's Benefit Gala.

See all the Holiday Gift Sets from SublimeBeautyShop.com

Wearing the Pearl Set at the ITNY's Benefit Gala with Sarah Hughes.

Sets of Sublime Beauty's Top Serums come gift boxed. Some with jewelry!

Crabtree & Evelyn's Big Top Twelve Musical Carousel Tin of 12 Hand Therapy Creams

This musical gift tin will be a precious keepsake for years to come! Beautifully decorated this rotating carousel plays, "It's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you..." also known as "Sleigh Ride" made famous by Johnny Mathis. 

Inside you will find 12, .9 oz tubes of practically all of Crabtree and Evelyn's top fragranced creams and formulas such as: Evelyn Rose, Lily, Summerhill, Citron, Gardeners, Nantucket Briar, Rosewater, Pomegranate, La Source, Verbena and Lavender, Lavender and Tarocco Orange. All made from the most exotic botanicals, these are all the perfect size for your purse. The tin can be refilled with Christmas treats or nuts for your holiday guests. Wind it up and let the music play! Available at CrabtreeandEvelyn.com

Big Top Twelve Hand Therapy Creams come gift boxed

NEW Killer Queen's Royal Revolution Perfume by Katy Perry

Known as the "Pop Tart" of the music world, Katy Perry is spreading her wings so to speak with her new Eau de Parfum in the Killer Queen Series, Royal Revolution.

Exclusive to Coty Paris-New York, this new fragrance offers a surprising maturity without a "matronly" presence. The packaging is gorgeous and can even double as a tree ornament! 1.7 fluid ozs of polished perfumery perfection.

Details

Katy Perry Royal Revolution is inspired by the beauty and strength of a precious Blue Diamond. This Killer Queen is destined to lead a Royal Revolution; a Royal with the scent of victory, a new sensibility, a wild way of holding court with rebellion on her mind and defiance on her playful lips.

Katy Perry's Royal Revolution

Royal Floral scents of:

• Top Notes with Pink Freesia, Black Thorn, Pomegranate
• Heart Notes of Orange Flower, Sandalwood, Jasmine Petals.
• Base Notes of Soft Leather, Skin Musk, Vanilla Orchid.

NEW Berries and Moss Wreath from Creekside Farms, CA

The beautiful fresh holiday wreath you've seen in these photos is by the artisans at Creekside Farms. Made with fragrant fresh fir and seeded eucalyptus, it freshens and cleans the air naturally. The wreath also contains pesticide free pine cones, moss, Artemisia and pepperberries. Very ample and full, you can cut off some of the eucalyptus leaves and use them in a potpourri pot.  They also make culinary kitchen herb wreaths for your favorite cooks! Ships nationwide from sunny California. See all their handcrafted wreaths at CreeksideFarms.com

Berries & Moss Holiday Wreath by Creekside Farms, CA

Gift sets and Holiday Wreath c/o the respective designers so mentioned.