February 8, 2011

Spotlight On: Shawn Punch-Fashion Photographer

Awhile back I was invited to an industry function.  There wasn’t a lot of room at this locale. As more and more people crowded into the space, it was inevitable that you were going to get sandwiched into the spot that you were standing.  Lucky for me, I was crowded into a corner with a handsome, warm, friendly man with an impressive array of camera paraphernalia and a killer smile.  Having an interest in photography myself, I began a conversation. We hit it off well.

My man with a camera was Shawn Punch. In addition to being one of the nicest people around, he is also multi-talented. Not only is he an incredible photographer, but his drawings are impressive! His interest in fashion and photography as well as his desire to show beautiful creations to the world has made him a reporter with The Examiner. Fashion Week, Red Carpet Events, anything that needs to be covered, he has become the go-to man!

 In a short period of time, Shawn’s hobby of photography has turned him into being one of the busiest fashion photographers around the city! His passion is evident in each event and in every photo.  He now covers more than 100 runway shows and fashion events. This Guyana native schedule for February 8-February 17, 2011 would make anyone’s head spin.  He will be covering Narcisco Rodriquez, Herve Leger, Vera Wang, Badgley Mischka, Michael Kors, Betsey Johnson, Pamela Roland, Carolina Herrera, Tommy Hilfiger and the list goes on……..

I am extremely happy that I will be able to show you some of Shawn’s work during fashion week.  For an in depth look at the collections, you will see them on his site,  http://www.punchphotography.com

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February 8, 2011

February—It’s Not Just About Love….Know the Signs of Teen Dating Violence

We all know February is Valentine’s Day. But did you know that the month of February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month? Women between the ages of 16-24 are at the highest risk of experience domestic violence.  A survey has shown that 81% of parents either don’t know or don’t believe teen dating violence is an issue. In 2010, for the first time ever, Congress and New York State proclaimed the entire month of February to be Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. The NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) invites you to join in helping to raise awareness on this important issue by encouraging statewide youth, families, schools, law enforcement communities, government agencies, elected officials, civic organizations and other interested groups to show support for the organizations and individuals who provide critical advocacy and services and assistance to victims.

Nationwide surveys that have examined teen dating relationships and experiences have specific findings from these surveys to include the following: 30% of teens in a dating relationship have been text messaged 10-30 times an hour to find out where they are, what they are doing and who they are with. In New York State, 12.1% of high school students surveyed report that they were hit, slapped of physically hurt on purpose by their boyfriend or girlfriend during the previous 12 months, and 8.6% were physically forced to have sexual intercourse when they did not want to. Teen dating violence, including physical, verbal and emotional abuse, sexual assault, and harassment via texting, email or instant messaging has become a reality for many teenagers in which many parents and caregivers are unaware.

Studies have indicated the effects of violent relationships can be serious. They put victims at a higher risk for substance abuse, eating disorders, risky sexual behavior, suicide and adult re-victimization. New York State has recognized the significance of addressing teen dating violence and has passed a law that enables teens to obtain civil orders of protection against their abusers, since its inception in July 2008; more than 1,000 teens have needed to seek orders of protection. “This Isn’t Love” campaign is aimed at teaching students the difference between love and the signs of control and abuse.

http://www.opdv.state.ny.us/public_awareness/campaigns/tdvcampaigns/index.html and Domestic Abuse Shelters, such as one of the country’s largest, Safe Horizon www.safehorizon.org are sites to find out more information.  Know the signs, educate and raise awareness……in a month that is supposedly all about love, let’s end the cycle of violence and make sure our teens know the difference between love and abuse!

 

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February 6, 2011

When Having a Heart of Stone is a Good Thing

For thousands of years, crystals have been revered for their healing, magical, and protective properties. Generations have believed that one could harness the unique beauty and properties of crystals, using their powers not only to alleviate medical problems, but to bring about emotional and spiritual changes as well. Unleashing the crystal’s mystical powers can not only change your life, but bring you everything that you desire.

Of course diamonds are the highest evolved gemstone. Diamonds are considered a mild aphrodisiac, and act as an amplifier to indiscriminately intensify any thoughts or feelings that the wearer may have. And while diamonds may be the universal symbol of love, there are other crystals that are thought to have more romantic and erotic qualities. These crystals can help change how you feel about yourself, allow you to accept and love yourself (the prerequisite to being loved by anyone else!) and make you more open to love. They can attract a soul-mate, or put some zing into an existing relationship.

One of these love stones is Rose Quartz.  Rose Quartz will attract love into your life. These stones have been believed to express love and stimulate passion. Add to this crystal, Jasper, which is the stone of protection and has been called the “supreme nurturer” in Judy Hall’s The Crystal Bible. Jasper releases negativity and helps us deal with conflicts.  It is also thought to aide in fertility. The magic and meaning of crystals is truly amazing!

Jewelry designer Ky Bae has taken her captivation and love of stones and crystals to create some beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces. Ky, Korean-born and The School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston educated, began creating her pieces as a hobby.  Her efforts were admired by all who saw them. Each piece is unique in design. They are as unique as the stones and crystals she selects, and as unique as the individual wearing them.

Looking for a Valentine’s Day gift that suggests love, harmony, positive thoughts and pureness of heart? Even if it is a gift for yourself to attract more love into your life? Take a look at her heart shaped pendant with Jasper Quartz Crystal. They say that it is the power of the stones and crystals themselves, not the quantity that makes them powerful. Here’s hoping they will release their magic.

You can see more of Ky’s designs at The Plaza Beauty and at www.kbdessin.com

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February 5, 2011

My interview with Celebrity, Fashion, Runway, and Editorial Hairstylist Amoy Pittors


Celebrated hairstylist and owner of the renowned Amoy Couture Salon in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, took some time to talk with me about the latest in hair extensions which happen to be her trademark, trends in hair styles, and some fab new items that will be available early this year on her web site at www.amoycouturehair.com. This is a terrific website, and Amoy’s “Bio” is definitely a “must read”!

Amoy’s forte is hair, which has earned her prominence in the Fashion and Beauty Industry. From styling the hair of celebrities like Naomi Campbell, Alicia Keys, and Sheryl Crow, to name a few, Amoy works on daily clientele at her salon, and has a following of notables including Iman, Mary K. Blige, Kerry Washington, Joy Bryant, and the list goes on.

Amoy is one “on the go” gal, and so pleasant to talk with. The first thing I asked her during our conversation was how do you do it all? She answered, and I quote, “I love being busy!”
~ And busy she is!!

Regarding hair extensions, Amoy said that if you are considering hair extensions, you should call a salon and go in for a consultation ! It’s not a good sign if the establishment that you call does “Not” offer you a consultation. A consultation is essential to not only meet your stylist, but get all of your questions answered before you book the appointment. “After all, Amoy emphasized, you get what you pay for!”

Things have changed since I had extensions put in my hair a number of years ago. Amoy told me that the hair is now 100% human hair, and comes from India. It is generally a darker color, but can be custom colored for the client. This obviously gives a more natural look and feel to the hair, as well as styling versatility.

Amoy also noted that you need at least 4 inches of hair if you are considering getting extensions.

I then asked Amoy what was trending in hairstyles right now, and she said the “Ombre” look was very popular. That’s the “look” with hair darker at the roots, and the lighter colored on the ends. You’ll also be seeing a lot of all one length hair with long bangs making a come back.

It was then, Amoy shared some exciting news with me! Coming soon, on her website, Amoy is going to have clip-on hair extensions and clip-on bangs available for purchase. What a perfect way to try different looks with your hair. Since the longer bangs are back in style, if you have taken the time to grow out your hair to one length, and you’re not sure if you’d like to cut in bangs again, this would be the ideal solution. Can you imagine being able to achieve a whole new look when you’re in the mood, and not have to alter your current hair style!

In closing, I asked Amoy what a person needed to do to keep their hair healthy and great looking. Right to the point, she replied, ” See your stylist often for regular trims , and use good products!”

Many thanks to Amoy Pittors for this interview and for sharing her expertise with our readers at www.itsaglamthing.com.

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February 4, 2011

Vie d’ Amour…….

“I wish you days of sunshine, nights of poetry and a life filled with beautiful music.”

So said the DJ as he signed off his late night shift…….a beautiful sentiment, and perfect for a Valentine’s Day wish. Lucky for those of us that love fragrance, that Miriam Mirani was tuned into the program. Mirani, no stranger to creating magical fragrances, is the woman behind AQABA, the heavenly mixture of Egyptian Jasmine, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cloves, Damask Rose and incense. AQABA is named for the jeweled city on the ancient caravan route upon which luxurious cargos of gold, perfumes and fine silks were passed. The exotic perfume was based upon the legendary love of King Solomon for the Queen of Sheba.  The inspiration of King Solomon’s and Queen Sheba’s love launched 6 amazing fragrances, AQABA Classic for Women, AQABA for Men, AQABA  Spring, Jewels of Blu, Midnight Sun, and Sands of AQABA.  All are rich, warm and complex…….I can’t help but keep smelling my perfume swatches to get a whiff…..

Mirani was born to parents whose cultures embodied traditions of Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean.  She spent her formative years in the cultural capitals of Salzburg, the Middle East and America. One of her favorite travel memories was through the Sinai Desert, falling in love with the colors and magic of the Nile Delta. At the tip of the Red Sea lay the cornerstones to the ancient world Aqaba. The impression was so powerful that she hoped she would be able to impart and share this dark, mysterious, dazzling and sensual experience through smell. AQABA was born and in this world of watered-down, unoriginal, overly sweetly floral fragrances, it has become a cult staple for those of us who wish to wear something that is original, noticeable and full of character.

“I wish you days of sunshine, nights of poetry and a life filled with beautiful music.”  These were the words that inspired Mirani to create Vie d’Amour for Women, a warm, seductive scent infused with Bergamot, Turkish Rose, Jasmine and Orange Blossom leaves a lasting whisper of Vanilla-Bourbon, Oak moss and Sandalwood.  Heavenly…..and Vie d’Amour for Men captures the essence of masculinity with its fresh spicy aroma with notes of Green Leaves, Cardamom, Thyme, Sandalwood and a hint of leather. They are the modern versions of the love between King Solomon and Queen Sheba, and very seductive scents for both of you.

If you are looking to select the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, skip the flowers and chocolate and look to everyday luxuries that will last. Look for beautiful indulgences that will make a lasting impression, not only on Valentine’s Day, but every day of the year.

Scents by Miriam Marani are available at The Plaza Beauty and on her website www.mirani.com.  Try, test, smell and enjoying………..

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February 3, 2011

The Language of Perfume………

On one of my jaunts through The Plaza Beauty, I was guided through the perfume counter by Alaina Bavelas, who’s knowledge of perfumes will have your head spinning…….With one whiff, Alaina could tell me all about the perfume, it’s fragrance components, base notes, middle notes, heart notes and all these things which I knew nothing about! I knew what I liked, (sort of) but I had really given up on perfumes in the past few years wearing nothing but an occasional musk. Some of this had to do with allergies, but most had to do with the fact that I had no patience at the perfume boutiques at department stores.  I found the heavy smell to be way too much for me, and bolted through them as quickly as I possibly could!

However perfume shopping at the Plaza Beauty is a completely different experience! There are no people spritzing you as soon as you walk in. Work with Alaina and any of the other knowledgeable sales associates and you will learn and discover many different types of fragrance. I’ve discovered that I am more of an exotic girl, versus floral, and lo and behold, as long as I am not being drenched and sprayed in fragrances, my allergies were not a problem. For those of you, like me, who do not know the perfume lingo, here are some of the terms that I learned from Alaina that will aide you in perfume shopping.

Base Notes-These notes, or scents reveal the depth and strength of the fragrance.  They normally last for about 24 hours.

Fragrance Notes –This refers to the ingredients that are commonly used in the composition of perfumes. Fragrances are typically formulated by layering three scents, or notes – top, middle and base.

Middle Notes (also known as Heart Notes) –These scents emerge about 15 minutes after application (once the top notes have faded). These scents last about an hour or more and act as the heart of your signature scent.

Top Notes-These scents are the first impression and smell that you first get from your perfume.  They are a volatile fragrance and last the least amount of time, anywhere normally from 5 to 15 minutes.

And as Coco Chanel said, “A woman who doesn’t wear perfume has no future!”

 

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January 31, 2011

Happy Valentine’s Day From Hibba Beauty

As I have mentioned in previous blogs, most of the brow masters say threading is the best way to achieve a sculpted brow.  And who better to trust with your brows than someone who learned the art of threading at the tender age of thirteen? Hibba Kapil learned threading techniques while growing up in India from her mother and grandmother. She would thread for her family and friends and soon became the go-to-girl in her small town. Soon, learning the techniques of sugaring and waxing followed and before she knew it , Hibba found her calling.

Moving to the US at age 17, she immediately found job opportunities while sharing her gift and putting herself through college.  Armed with her degree in finance and over a decade of experience in technical and industry experience, Hibba realized that her dream of a salon specializing in eco-friendly hair removal treatments could be a reality. From the moment you enter her West Broadway salon, you are transported to a calm, serene world complete with candles, meditative music and a colorful Indian décor. Her treatments include threading using only all natural cotton thread and sugaring with her own homemade recipe containing all natural ingredients and organic waxing with an all natural wax made from mushroom extracts, chamomile and resins.

Is there a need for hair removal to be eco-friendly and customer friendly? Commercial waxes contain titanium dixodies, which have been classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans. They work, but at what cost? Waxes also are removed in the opposite direction of hair growth, irritating the skin. Laser hair removal doesn’t work on everyone, and in some cases causes thicker hair growth.  Sugaring has been around for centuries, tried and proven, way before the days of chemical intervention. Effective and less painful hair removal? Sign me up to try! 

Well, trying became much easier, because Hibba is offering a great Valentine’s Day deal for all of us close to her salon at 448 West Broadway (between Prince and West Houston) here in New York.  You must purchase the deal on her website www.hibbabeauty.com . The hardest part is deciding which one of the three deals that you would like to try.

Deal 1 is a Brazilian brow lip combo, your choice of sugaring, waxing or threading for $30.

Deal 2 is a Brazilian brow lip combo, your choice of sugaring, waxing or threading , plus $60 dollars worth of any services for $60.

Deal 3 is 2 Brazilians for $45.

Limit is One per person. This special MUST be purchased via website and is available by Appointment only.
So whether if you’ve never been threaded, this is your perfect time to try! And for all of you seasoned hair removal clients, a way to try safer and easier hair removal treatments before the bikini season is upon us!

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January 28, 2011

dermHA – Hyaluronic Moisturizing Creme Plus

Is your skin Mature, Dry, Sensitive, or Dehydrated? Then dermHA Hyaluronic Moisturizing Creme Plus might be JUST what you’ve been searching for!

This was the perfect product for me to try as it addressed my dehydrated and sensitive skin. It’s a very light weight moisturizer that has a comfortable feel on the skin. For that reason, I chose to use it in the evening and in the daytime, as well. I noticed a difference in the top surface texture of my skin almost immediately, as my makeup effortlessly glided on, and my skin took on a very nice hydrated appearance.

What’s in a product is always very important, but what is not can make a big difference in determining if a product will be right for your particular skin care needs.

dermHA provides a very informative brochure, and as a consumer with Sensitive Skin I was impressed that dermHA does not contain :

•Fragrance
•Alcohol
•Mineral Oil
•Dye
•Lanolin, or
•Propylene Glycol

In the Hyaluronic Moisture Creme Plus Moisturizer that I tried, there are a number of great Antioxidants including, Green Tea, Grapeseed Extract, and Olive Water, to name a few.

The Anti-inflammatory, Anti-irritant, Antioxidant and Stimulant ingredient, Calendula is also in this creme. This botanical helps soothe sensitive skin.

Two of my favorite tried and true ingredients are Hyaluronic Acid, a humectant that helps keep the moisture in, resulting in a softer and smoother skin, and Aloe which has been used for thousands of years to heal and calm irritants. I’m delighted to see that they are also Key ingredients in the Hyaluronic Moisturizing Cream Plus.

dermHA also carries a line of Cleansers, Exfoliants, Moisturizers, Masks and Specialty Products that are “Clinically formulated therapeutic care for Sensitive Skin.”

What a great opportunity to have access to these “High Tech” cosmeceutical products that address the issues of the client with sensitive skin…. Thanks dermHA !

Products can be purchased online at : www.dermha.com, and select Doctor’s offices.

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January 27, 2011

Fashionistas-Embrace Your Curves with Madison Plus

It is interesting to note that statistics show the average U.S. woman wears  a size 14, a size just slightly a little larger and curvier than those size 2’s that will be floating down the runways during Fashion Week! More than 60% of the population is considered “plus size” (and in the fashion world, it means a size 8!) yet the plus size women are normally ignored in the fashion world. Is it possible for plus sized gals, who love fashion to be on the brink of the latest trends? Is it possible to rock the latest runway looks and have the same options as a size 2?

The duo of Aimee Cheshire and Erica Young who have worked in the plus industry for many years as product developers, buyers and even a plus model, have taken their expertise and have brought high fashion  to the fingertips of the plus industry live on the internet. Madisonplus.com is their collaboration featuring an online mall, E-zine and style channel to the plus sized market.  The two met in college, spent years in the industry before starting up this revolutionary concept from scratch and have turned it into a major and daily destination for the plus sized fashionistas.

Madisonplus, (www.madisonplus.com) is a more than a wonderful online shop! It is the premier website for the modern plus sized woman. It covers all major clothing categories, from intimate apparel to evening and formal wear.  Jewelry and accessories to beauty and make-up.  It highlights not only what is new, but what to expect in the upcoming fashion season. The site will show you how to take a magazine cover or red carpet event and convert that look into your plus sized wardrobe.  The user can also create their own style boards with polyvore and send them to the site where the editors will chose their favorite and feature them on their blog.  Madisonplus will introduce you to their favorite models who share their thoughts and secrets with you.

Madisonplus will be attending The Curvy Revolution in Las Vegas February 18-20th, as the official media sponsor. The Curvy Revolution Convention is produced by the nation’s largest plus sized organization Full Figures.  This convention is an interactive experience designed to celebrate, inform and inspire plus sized women.  It will be a dynamic, empowering, motivational and entertaining event that celebrates real sized women!  I am looking forward to hearing Aimee and Erica’s review!  For more information on The Curvy Revolution see www.curvyrevolution.com.

 One of the things that I LOVE about Madisonplus is that to me it is more than a fashion website.  It is a feel good, embrace your body site.  I’ve personally gone from a size zero to having chest and hips…..and while I wouldn’t go back to my size zero days for anything (I look better and am much healthier at a heavier weight!), I do miss the fashion options that a size zero has to chose from.  Whenever I get down about that, my remedy is to watch a classic movie, where the women had curves and looked fabulous!  Now if only the fashion designers would remember those days! Thankfully Madisonplus does!

 

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January 26, 2011

Kudos to Goldfaden!!!

I love it when a product which It’s a Glam Thing reports on receives some major beauty news play! Congratulations to Goldfaden Skin Care for being featured in New Beauty Magazine.  New Beauty reports on whether niacin will replace retinol as one of the best anti-aging treatments. Retinol is one of the most used anti-aging ingredients because of its ability to even skin tone while reducing fine lines and wrinkles.  However, retinols increase sun sensitivity and can irritate skin.  Niacin does not. 

Goldfaden’s Hands On Cream was highlighted in New Beauty. The rich hand cream has both retinol and niacin and not only moisturizes and soothes hands, but it helps fade pigmentation, discoloration and age spots.  Goldfaden Skincare is the first Dermatologist developed brand dedicated to the incredible anti-oxidant rich properties of Red Tea.  In Hands On, the retinol and niacin are powerful anti –aging ingredients and the potent antioxidant Red Tea hydrates the skin. It is the secret weapon for getting your hands through the winter!

The wonderful line of Goldfaden products is expanding with some exciting new products, which will surely make the beauty mavens take notice. Be sure to check out their Sleep renewal Night Cream (fabulous!), Blueberry and Pomegranate Hydrating Serum (chock full of potent anti-oxidants!), Vitamin D Body Lotion and Face Cream (my skin looks younger!) and Alpine Rose Stem Cell Cream, made from Alpine Rose Leaf Extract, a Swiss flower that grows at extreme high altitudes, adapting to extreme conditions such as cold, UV and dryness (amazing!!).

Be sure to check out the Goldfaden Skin Care Line at www.goldfaden.com and if in New York City, swing by The Plaza Beauty for some samples!

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