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

Winter Sparkle Evening and Everyday Makeup Trends for the New Year

Shimmer and sparkle are ON for evening. Neutral naked palettes for daytime.

Whether you are planning on ringing in the New Year with a bit of glitz or are looking for a neutral, almost naked eye palette for everyday, here's what's trending for 2015. Bold, rich colors for lips and eyes in neutral tones of beige, brown and pink. Most professional makeup artists start with the eyes so let's talk about what's hot right now.

Eyes: Going Naked? No, Try Lorac's Unzipped
I had a chance to see Urban Decay's new Naked3 Pallet this past fall. I saw it at Ulta and the sales woman kept going on about it. Really, it didn't look THAT much different from the first two releases, although the Naked3 had more of a pink, flesh tone to them. 

I looked up a dupe for their palette and Lorac's Unzipped Eye Shadow Palette came up. Lorac is makeup artist quality pigment and often seen on the runway and red carpet. Like the Urban Decay set, the Lorac Unzipped comes with an eyelid primer and has 10 ultra-rich shimmering and matte shadows. The mirrored case has a magnetic closure and this nude eye shadow palette is one you will reach for day after day. By LoracCosmetics.com

Pacifica Natural Minerals Stellar Eye Trio and Lorac Unzipped Eye Shadow Palette

Pacifica Natural Minerals Stellar Eye Trio
Going natural is on trend for 2015 and so this Stellar Eye Trio is 100% Vegan and made from natural minerals. I especially like the Natural Color Eye Pencil which goes on very smoothly in a rich matte black. Likewise the little Natural Eye Shadow Duo is ready to travel with two colors: Unicorn and Moonbeam. Has an almost creamy feel and goes on with a lit from within glow without too much shimmer. By PacificaBeauty.com and available at Whole Foods Markets nationwide.

Another favorite of mine is ELF's Black Shimmer Eye Pencil which comes with its own sharpener. Rather than flat black pencil line, the ELF Eye Pencil looks almost moist on due to the shimmer. You also might want to try Esum Brushes, namely their G27 Brush. So soft, they are amazing for blending pigments. See them at MuseBeauty.Pro

Sparkle and Shimmer for Lips and Nails

Lip Service
Just for evening, a neutral or even smokey eye gives you license to add a bit of glitter to your mouth and nails. I just wouldn't do both in shimmer as it may be too much. 
Glitz Fix by Ciate - London
This is really theatrical but the two part kit consists of primer and top glitter. Comes with a mini fan brush for blending the glitter out from the center of your lips for an ombre look. Definitely rock this look for New Year's Eve! See it at CiateLondon.com

The glitz and glitter squad.

Mineral Fusion Sheer Moisture Lip Tints
Rich in natural oils and botanicals like jojoba and aloe, these lips tints are VERY comfortable to wear and look amazing on. 100% vegetarian, paraben free and artificial color free. Made in the USA. Visit them online at MineralFusion.com

Mineral Fusion Mini Nail Polish Kit
This 100% Vegan Chip Resistant Formula is formaldehyde, toluene, camphor and dbp free. The smaller sized pots travel well. They go on very smoothly and dry quickly. This kit consists of:

Galaxy (dark blue glitter)
Royal Rubble (dark purple glitter)
Berried Gem (cranberry glitter)

Another new favorite of mine is from PINK (Victoria's Secret). Nail Paint. Shown here below in sparkly gold, I got it along with the PINK Nation Racer Back Bra that was in this year's Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. The PINK Nail Paints are VERY luxe and have a long lasting high wattage glitter. Use them to accent a manicure as they cover extremely well.

PINK Nail Paint in Gold

Victoria's Secret PINK Accessories, Mine
Cosmetics c/o the companies so listed herewith

Skin Beautifying Antioxidants You Need to Try: MitoQ, Neocell & Dr. Perricone

Antioxidants work best when taken internally and used externally.

As you may know, I am a Certified Nutritional Consultant and Pharmacology expert,(Rutgers College of Pharmacy alumna). When I wrote, The Secret of Staying Young, (Lotus Press), I emphasized the importance of adding antioxidants to your diet and skincare routine. I stand by this advice as it means keeping my skin fresh and clear despite spending my summers swimming, cycling and running. All of that UV damage adds up so I've found a way to actually reverse it. Here how I do it:

My book published by Lotus Press

Vitamin C Serums
The best way to get a fresh antioxidant boost in the morning is to start with a potent Vitamin C Peptide Serum. Apply this after cleansing to help undo free radical damage and fade sun spots.


Top Two Vitamin C Serums to Try:

1).  G.M. Collin Vitamin C + Peptide Serum

2.)  Sublime Beauty Retinol Serum with Vitamin C

After gently cleansing and exfoliating, use a potent Vitamin C Serum

Antioxidant Moisturizers
After applying my vitamin C serum(s) which are very light and thin, I like to "seal the deal" with a really good antioxidant moisturizer. I've found MitoQ Power Antioxidant to be in a class all its own and have been using it since last October. It is very different in that it delivers a healthy payload of antioxidants, namely CoQ deep within the mitochondria of your cells and is 847 times more potent than any other topical cream containing this co-enzyme.

MitoQ Power Antioxidant Supplements and Moisturizer

MitoQ Power Antioxidant Moisturizer works by protecting both skin fibroblasts within the deeper dermis and keratinocytes in the outer layer or epidermis. This means more youthful levels of collagen and elastin. When I apply it, I can actually feel it sinking down into my skin. It is like a wave of moisture going deep into the layers. No greasy residue, just a plump, moist and very firm skin toning effect. MitoQ has scientific studies showing its efficacy but my proof is in the mirror. MitoQ has reversed some of the sun damage I've gotten as I am outdoors a lot. As you can see in this fashion photo below, my skin simply glows from within.

PHOTO by Kenneth Deutsch of Headshots, NYC

MitoQ Targeted Antioxidant Supplement
Getting that lit from within look also means taking a daily antioxidant supplement. I've been taking MitoQ Targeted Antioxidant capsules since last fall. I especially believe it works as a synergy with the topical MitoQ Power Antioxidant Moisturizer. The 5 mg capsules are easy to swallow and I take one or two every morning when I get up. This same supplement has been extensively studied for its efficacy in dealing with degenerative diseases like MS so it is something to seriously consider adding to your diet to help your skin and body both look and perform younger. It can likewise help slow free radical damage which accumulates with age. Learn more about MitoQ products & research studies online HERE

NeoCell Beauty Infusion
Another good antioxidant beauty supplement you can take is by NeoCell known for my fave Beauty Bursts Collagen Chews. Although I just started taking this, it looks like another winner but in a delicious Tangerine Twist flavor. Blend a scoop of Beauty Infusion in 8 oz of water first thing in the morning for a burst of beta carotene and vitamin C along with 6,000 mgs of collagen and 3,000 mcgs of biotin which is by the way, amazing for your hair.

Sunscreen Year Round
I'm sure you're aware that just because summer is over doesn't mean we can abandon use of sunblock. After moisturizing, the next step is to use a natural sunscreen with antioxidants and botanicals. I've been using Sulwhasoo Age Veil, SPF 30 and Elizabeth Arden's Triple Protection Factor Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, SPF 50 which is more like a tinted moisturizer. What you want are sunblocks with a physical sunscreen, namely the newer products like these containing titanium and zinc dioxides.

EA's TPF Physical Sunscreen SPF 50

Sulwhasoo Age Veil at Crystal Springs Resort this summer.

Dr. Perricone No Foundation, Foundation Serum - Sephora & Ulta
This is something new I picked up at Sephora. Dr. Perricone is well known for his acne skin care line but this new serum goes beyond your usual tinted moisturizers. The serum is very light, watery in fact and you only need about four drops to do your face and neck. Coverage is very sheer but offers a mineral sunscreen with a SPF 30. It feels like nothing on your skin but makes it look flawless. I did not need the optional bronzer as the color right from the bottle is just fine. I would mix it with Kett Shimmers to match my tan. Just be warned that No Foundation, Foundation Serum's universal tint is quite warm making it perfect for golden skin tones. 

I like that this formula offers sun protection and some antioxidants but you can find a less expensive dupe with La Roche Posay's Sunscreen which offers an SPF of 50. La Roche Posay is also available at CVS in case you don't have a Sephora or Ulta store nearby.

So give these products a try this season. They will go a long way towards undoing the sun damage from summer and repair your skin in time for the Holidays. Better still, you'll not only look fabulous but you'll feel incredible too!

Hair: Esther Tobias of Fortune Fashions, NYC
Makeup: Kett Cosmetics Hydro Air Brush Foundation, NYC
Photography: Kenneth Deutsch, Headshots for Fortune Fashions, NYC
Power Antioxidant Moisturizer & Supplements c/o MitoQ
Beauty Infusion c/o Neocell

Baked Goods - NEW Fake Bake Self Tanner Bronzer and Mistifier Plus Australian Gold

Just in time for SUMMER!  New Fake Bake Bronzers and Oil Free Mistifier.

When it comes to faux tanning, I think I've been a bit spoiled because for years I've used a professional air brush with tanning solutions. So, it took quite some time to find a rub on product that comes anywhere near that. Air Brush tanning is very even in application and will last for about a week depending on the solution, how often you shower and exfoliate.

My AirStar Spray Tan Compressor

Fake Bake
FB is perhaps one of the better self tanning products out there. I've used the drug store Jergens products but they never really came close to the depth of color of my air brushed tan. So as I said before, I'm some what of a hard sell for these rub on products. All of the Fake Bake products I tested come with a pair of gloves to protect your palms. I saw that as a really good sign! They are good quality gloves and I just wash them as I would my hands, dry and then reuse them.

New Formula Beyond Bronze Self Tan Lotion

FB Beyond Bronze Self Tan Lotion
This was by far my favorite of all self tanning lotions. Perhaps the reason why is because it most resembles the spray tan formula used in my air brush compressor. This new UK formula Beyond Bronze is very liquid but not overly runny. You can see it on my hand, it's almost like melting Jello. It is very dark but spreads very evenly and leaves a beautiful, natural tan color, not unlike what I usually get from the sun. It gives you an immediate glow but darkens over time. Exfoliate first before application and apply at night for a longer lasting tan.

Golden Faux Glo Bronzer Matte Medium Instant Tan Lotion Wash - Off

FB Golden Faux Glo Bronzer Matte Medium Instant Tan Lotion Wash - Off
This is a wash off product for face and body. This would be good for a quick bronzing of tan color but it's a one shot deal. It will not darken over time like the Self Tan Lotion. Comes with gloves just like the Self Tan product but washes off with soap and water. This is good for editorial work when I have an outdoor shoot early in the season. This would not be a good choice for a day at the beach or pool but it definitely works for a night out on the town or to even out previous tan lines.

FB Oil Free Mistifier Moisturizing Body Spray

FB Oil Free Mistifier Moisturizing Body Spray 
Once you've got your glow on, don't try to apply oil based moisturizers. The oil undermines the tanning additives, stripping them away from the skin. The result can be a patchy, streaky mess! I thought this was pretty clever. Fake Bake Oil Free Mistifier Moisturizing Body Spray to top off your newly faux tanned skin. A little goes a long way as this ginger - aloe based spray also contains glycerine and Vitamin E. If you really want to amp up the glow, top everything off with some Hard Candy Glow All the Way made with 24K gold. It is an instant bronze and gradual self tanner in one but it does not get you anywhere near as dark as the Fake Bake. See all of Fake Bake's New Products at FakeBake.co.uk 

Fake Bake is the closest to the professional airbrush tanning solutions I use.

  
Sun Protection
I would be remiss if I didn't mention that none of the aforementioned products offer SPF or UPF protection. You may look fabulously tanned but your skin is still very much at risk without solar protection. So be smart and use a sunblock when heading outdoors. I tried a new product from Australian Gold which contains Kona Coffee infused bronzers and has a SPF of 50. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes so you can enjoy some pool time. It is not a dark self tanner but it is made with aloe so it won't strip your other products either. See more of their new sun-care products at AustralianGold.com 

Australian Gold 50 Lotion Sunscreen. New Eyewear from the Converse All Star Line

Skincare products c/o Fake Bake

Charged Up Cycle Chic

Charged Up for Bike Month with Urban Chic E-Bikes!

Crystal Springs Resort, Hamburg NJ  May is Bike Month and last week was Bike to Work Week. If you haven't heard, e-Bikes are the hottest thing going! The Charged Up Media Event was THE place to test drive power assisted and full powered electric bikes.

Work or play, cycle wear for everywhere!

Bike Commuting Made Easier
If you've been a bit shy about the thought of taking your bicycle to work or a long touring ride, an e-Bike might be a potential solution. There is less of a chance of getting all sweaty and hot with a little power to your pedal. Add a few very stylish pieces you can wear on and off your ride along with bicycle luggage and portable rear rack bags.

Echelon Skort by Terry.  Large Black Carry All by Give Love Cycle

What's in My Bicycle Bag? Here's what I have on board for every ride: Minemergency Pouch with Topricin, L'Occitane Almond Milk Handcream, pH Lighted Lip Gloss, 30 SPF Coconut Oil Sunblock, GM Collin Eye Serum, Visine, Energems, Probar Fuel, Water Bottle and Deodorant Swipes.

Pack your Bags!

Pedal Assist(ant)
I got the chance to test ride the BionX which is a pedal assist e-Bike system. What's cool is that you can install it on your favorite bicycle as there are different models to choose from. Even better is that since it is a power assist, you still have to pedal so you get a bit of a workout. The model I tried (on the Ohm) charges fully in only 4 hours and will run for nearly 40-50 miles after being powered up. BionX e-bike systems offer Generate Mode and Re-Gen braking which will help recharge the battery as you're going downhill. Its natural pedaling feel is perhaps the closest to riding a regular bicycle.  You're just not as worn out when you arrive at your destination!

E-Bikes, the Wave of the Future?
I definitely think so. For just pennies in electricity, you can bicycle farther and for extended periods of time. Steep hills are no longer a problem as I even tried The Mariner by ProdecoTech which is a cute little full powered folding bicycle.  Weighing only 45 lbs it tops out at 18 mph and gives you 25-35 miles of riding per charge. Full powered means no pedaling needed. Fold it, pack it and take it with you on your next vacation.

The Mariner Folding E-Bike by ProdecoTech

 
Ready to Get Charged Up?
You may need to check the local laws in your area as e-bikes are somewhat new on the scene. Still, they can make a world of difference in your riding experience and even become your "second car". You can go further, faster and haul more weight by simply slapping on a set of panniers. These innovations really take the limitations off of bicycling and is something I will be looking into more this summer.


Bags & Cycle Wear c/o Give Love Cycle and Terry Bicycles respectively.

Editor's Edition: What's in My Work Commute Handbag?

Essentials I pack for my day commute into NYC.

NYC, NY Ever wonder what us editors pack when we have to cover an event in the city? Well, we've got to be very strategic about space but there are a few things that fill many uses that I take along every time. I will usually take a larger carry all to hold everything and my camera bag is separate but everything fits right in.

My Carry All: Give Love Cycle's Guilden Bag
This carry all is the perfect size to hold everything I need for my commute and a comfortable day away from home. What's really cool is it is made to fit the CityBike's front basket so once I get off the train, I can hop on a CB at one of Kiosks on 7th Ave. Even if I'm not planning to ride the NYC Bike Path, I like having the option to do so and this Guilden Carry All is perfect no matter what. 

The Guilden Carry All by Give Love Cycle

Pack Your Bag!
I'm notorious for taking WAY too much stuff but I've learned over time to pack "modules" of items. I've learned this from backpacking and camping but it works for commuting too. Items that do similar things can be packed in smaller inner bags so it's easier to access on the road. A few examples would be my Minimergency Pouch by Pinch Provisions which has lip balm, breath freshener, clear nail polish, an emery board, tampon, pain reliever, bandage, a sewing kit, etc. all packed in a tiny pouch. Genius!

Minimergency Kit by Pinch Provisions

My Commuter Bag Contents:
Left to Right-
Minimergency Kit, L'Occitane Almond Hand Cream, Physician's Formula Lighted/Mirrored pH Powered Lip Gloss, All Good Coconut Sunstick SPF 30, GM Collin Eye Contour Corrector, Round Makeup Mirror in Green Leather Case, Neocell Beauty Bursts, Visine Eye Drops, Energems, Benefit Watt's Up? Highlighter, Probar Fuel Energy Bar and Whish Deodorant Swipes.

Tea to Go: Eco Vessel's tricked out thermal bottle is amazing.

Eco Vessel for Hot or Cold Drinks
I also keep a container of hot tea or ice cold water with me on my trip. I'm loving the Eco Vessel Boulder right now due to it's sleek design, cool spring colors and leak-proof triple walled technology. Packing this way leaves room for my bicycle helmet and the Eco Vessel. Just the right size and easy to hold, this water bottle goes with me each time I leave the house. This and my Probar means I'll always have food and water available.  See more bottle styles and types at EcoVessel.com:

Featuring our TriMax® triple insulation technology, the BOULDER has been tested to keep water cold for up to 36 hours and hot up to 8 hours. Perfect for water, tea, coffee, soup or just about any drink. Its tight screw on top will keep your drink securely inside, where it belongs. It has a wide mouth to easily accommodate ice cubes and a comfortable, convenient drinking spout. We've also included a removable tea strainer/ice dam. The Boulder is a sturdy, high quality, stylish vacuum insulated steel water bottle for the office, tennis courts, golf course, on the trails... anyplace, anytime. 

• Cold and hot drinks
• Premium #304 stainless steel
• Free of BPA, phthalates, liners
• TriMax® triple insulation for superb performance
• Removable tea strainer/ice dam
• Sturdy carrying handle
• Recyclable
• 17 oz (500 ml)
• 10.75" high; 3.00 diameter; 1 lb

  
Carry All and Water Bottle c/o Give Love Cycle and Eco Vessel respectively.