From Sunday to Saturday, Style Week Northeast 2014 melted the snow in Providence with many sizzling designs from local, talented fashion artists. This week long fashion show is one of the most inspiring and exciting events of the city held at The Providence Biltmore, a landmark hotel.  Throughout the week, the runway located on the 17th. floor, glowing under two big beautiful chandeliers brought fashionable New Englanders together to sight the fall 2014 collection.  I had the opportunity to witness a glimpse of surrender from these designers as they released their work to the little state of Rhode Island.  Colorful fabrics, modern shapes, big bows, street wear energy, sheer patterns, sparkles, and even a children’s clothing line rocked each night of the week!  Before the models embark on the runway, people gathered to mingling, chat and take selfies.  As the room darken, people headed to their seats and then there was silent.  The attitude of the crowd was anxious and curious.  Music started to echo with excitement and creativity was in the air!  All attention was shifted to the runway to embrace the collections of the designers who have spent months in preparation for their show.  I deeply respect and admire the passion, hard work, and creativity that goes into constructing each collection piece.  Each and every designer was simply amazing but one artist made me gasp!  Nick Pini designer of Pini, a rising star, originally from Norfolk, Massachusetts!  I absorbed his style, creativity, and elegance of each piece that walked down that runway and it reminded me of why I love fashion so much!  His clothes showcased a common theme of lightness, grace, strength, and simplistic.  Nick Pini has always been fascinated with art and femininity.  He started out drawing at a very young age but was not interested in fashion until he attended college.  His inspiration for his latest collection was tropical storms and palm trees blowing in the wind and the rain.  Nick explained, “In the conceptualizing process, I was influenced by the 90’s, my former obsession with the spice girls and the digital age and throughout the development of the pieces.”   “I really kept my color palette simple.”  As I interviewed Nick, I retained his sense of self that seemed crucial to his color palette collection.  “I kept things simplistic, I think it is relaxing to look at something beautiful and not be overwhelmed.” One model pranced a black dress with gold embellishments, the front was the shape of a shift dress but the back was truly a gold frame unveiling the beauty of the women’s curved back. “I design for women who love authentically handmade and unique pieces,” said Nick.  A classic, tasteful design gave one model a peek-a-boo effect with flared, lace pants.  The modern top was a relaxed and easy look, draping layers of fabric along the back to one side.  A look that could be worn during the day and simply slips into the night.   It was a spectacular, wearable collection.  Every model wearing Pini’s design showcased a piece of artwork.  Samples can be purchased at Flaunt Boutique in Smithfield.  Of course, I needed to ask Nick, what was his plans for the future….  He thanked me for all my fun questions and said, “I plan to open my own Pini stores one day!”  As I look into the crystal ball…..  I see a steady stream of shoppers waiting in a long line wrapped around the block to get into Pini’s store and then I see myself, first in line!

Another glamorous year of style, creativity, and elegance via fashion with the collaboration of local businesses and designers. www.pini.co

When I get stressed and need a little pick-me-up I love to use this technique for a quick remedy. The smell of lavender is so soothing and feminine and instantly evokes a sensory experience. Furthermore, the herb itself can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions. It has been said that lavender can aid with insomnia, headache, nervousness, and indigestion. Keep in mind that with any natural remedies, it is important to test the product on a small patch of skin to test for allergic reactions.

To use lavender, I like to create a little concoction. Get a clean bowl and run the water in it until it reaches a very hot temperature. Then, put in eight drops of lavender oil and slowly let the mixture settle. Mix together, if it doesn’t naturally do so. Then, get a clean face towel and soak the wash cloth in the hot water for 5-10 minutes or until the water cools down to a warm temperature. Then, ring out  the wash cloth and gently line up the edges of the wash cloth with the edges of your face. Find a nice nook or relax on your bed for 10 minutes. Additionally, to create an even more soothing environment, light some candles or play some soothing music. This is great for nerves and tension. As you relax and become naturally sedated, the steam from the towels will slowly open up your pores, allowing the healing properties of the oil to remedy skin imperfections. Treating yourself to this facial once a week will do wonders for preserving radiant, healthy skin!

Looking for those volumized curls when trying to blow dry your hair? Well then, you definitely need this new Circular brush by KareCo. It is definitely a necessity if you are trying to achieve those soft at home done curls that look like you have your own stylist at home. This small thermal professional brush is awesome for any style. It can smooth, straighten, curls contours, adds volume and conditions. This brush is dedicated to providing salon industry with the highest quality brushes available. You will personally receive the same results at home as you would in a salon; with 100% advance Iconic Conditioning Technology, this brush will give you style, shine, volume, and bounce with every move.

The soft cushion handle is comfortable for any angle you are trying to reach. Also, the thin flexible bristles make it extremely easy to comb through any type of hair.  Personally, I have medium to thick short hair and this is the perfect brush for me to use when trying to get that thick beautiful hair that all the movie stars have nowadays. There are so many brushes out there on the market nowadays, but this brush is definitely worth the try. It worked for me and it will probably be just as successful for you too! Check out the fabulous brushes and hair care accessories that KareCo has to offer at their website www.kareco.com/home.

Christina Carlino, Teen Bloger