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Wednesday
Mar252009

Kiehl's Weightless Curl-Defining Spray

I am diggin' the lightweight gel texture of Kiehl's new “Weightless” Curl-Defining Spray. Whether you have natural or permed curls, this one is worthy of a try. It gives you the shine, body, and moisture you're craving for. With this non-greasy styling aid (yay for non-sticky hands!), curl definition is enhanced and frizz is under control. The long-lasting formula ( Sesame Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Soybean Oil, Silk Powders, Vitamin E) will strengthen and fortify the hair follicle. It isn't brittle, leaving your mane soft as silk. kiehls_curlspray.jpg Another beauty item I'm keeping an eye out for is their new Marvelous Mineral Mascara. Paraben-free and made with minerals, this is supposed to be great for or sensitive eyes! This I gotta check out... www.kiehls.com

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Friday
Mar202009

Williams-Sonoma Easter

I'm SO happy it's officially Spring season! Easter is about 3 weeks away, and I'm itchin' to bake up a batch of bunny-shaped cookies and other treats. I'm looking at these fun toys from Williams-Sonoma...I want them so I can have a proper girly tea afternoon with my friends. Aren't these Springtime Nest Bell Jars darling? I want them all. So country chic. WS_spring_nest_belljars.jpg I'm in such a cupcake baking mood lately. I might just have to buy this Daisy Crown Cupcake Pan to make some. At this rate I might be stuck in the kitchen all day...not that I'm complaining. daisypan_ws.jpg www.williams-sonoma.com

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Friday
Mar202009

IFB Links a la Mode March 19

Spring Fever: Are harem pants a passing phase? Check out what reLYME has to say...Practice your smokey eye as The Coveted gets tips from Benefit Cosmetics! Also, it might be a good time to spring clean your make up kit with What the Pros Do; If you're short on cash, Retro Chick give 5 tips to have fun anyway, and if you Do have cash, Consume or Consumed delves into her habits.

The full version of Links à la Mode is here in the forums - lots of great posts there too.

A Few Goody GumDrop If you are coming apart at the seems then enter to win torn leggings from LnA! Breakfast at Saks - Still sifting through Paris Fashion Week shows? Be sure to make time for Ann Demeulemeester F/W 09.10 Capitola Girl Jewelry Blog - Check, Please! Consume or Consumed - Consume or Consumed Sees Double and Triple: On Buying Multiples Couture Cult - CoutureCult.com: Alison Lewis (formerly of Mooka Kinney), Spring/Summer 09 Debutante Clothing - Missoni is Inspired By Vintage Modernist Necklaces Dogmom's Dish - Desperately Seeking Orla Fashion Daydream - What your didn’t see at Fashion Week: A behind the scenes look into fashion week, fashionistas en route to the shows and models being made up. Fashion Pulse Daily - reports on the latest colors for fall 2009 Felicia Sullivan - beauty & styling products that work for curly, coarse hair, really work. part 1: frederic fekkai fete a fete - Larkspur & Hawk's GORGEOUS antique and vintage inspired IFB_linksalamode3.19.09.jpg Independent Fashion Bloggers - Burnout Aversion Tips From Bloggers reLYME - An analysis of the Persian-inspired trend that's hitting the runway Retro Chick - Top 5 Ways to have fun with no money Shopping and Info - Gossip Girl scarves bags and jewelry oh my! Solo Lisa - Sunny fashion picks inspired by Freida Pinto's character in Slumdog Studio Purpura Fashion Blog - Shopping Hops in the Far & South East Asia! Style Symmetry - Interview with Jennine of The Coveted! Style With Anna - Fashion for Guys: How to Dress Like David Beckham THE COVETED - Exclusive Video Preview & Tutorial: Benefit Smokin'; Eyes the musings of ondo lady - Get ready for a retro prequel of Gossip Girl which is about the trials and tribulations of a teenage Lily van der Woodsen what the pros do - Spring Clean Your Makeup Kit!

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Thursday
Mar192009

DL1961 Premium Denim

DL1961 is now one of my favorite stretch denim companies. The first in using the incredible XFit Lycra technology, your jeans won't sag, stretch out, or get baggy. The fabric has 90% less pressure strain at stress points (knees, inseam, and back rise areas), meaning it won't get worn down as easily. The denim moves 360 degrees for maximum shape, style despite multiple wears. DL1961_MILANO_1O93B.jpg Milano 1093 Bootcut Hugging your curves comfortably, these sexy jeans will also shape up the derriere and legs. The four-way stretch fabric in the Milano Bootcut made me look like I've lost a couple pounds, or gotten a mini butt lift. It's that flattering. The slimming effects are evident upon wearing it. So ladies, if you were too afraid to try the skinny or straight cut, this will give you hope. The men will notice the difference, I kid you not. Tory1098_straight.jpg Tory 1098 Straight Leg The 27% lycra content makes this line super comfy, it's almost like wearing yoga pants. I don't recommend working out in these but it's thin and soft enough to lounge around in if you want. I might have to try it out on the dance floor for the ultimate stretch test. And, they use an enzyme wash (using a protein that softens the fabric) for that worn in look. I wonder if the traditional stone wash beats up the fabric too much in the process? They will launch an organic line next month, so stay tuned. I'll update you on the new styles and washes. I totally heart these guys. Keep up the fabulous work! www.dl1961.com

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Wednesday
Mar182009

Cupcake Kit

I think it's safe to say that almost everyone loves cupcakes. The new Cupcake Kit (Chronicle Books) includes 250 adorable cupcake liners (mini and regular sizes, in seven colors/patterns!), a reusable pastry bag with assorted piping tips, and a recipe book from noted cookbook author Elinor Klivans. It's also great as a gift idea for the aspiring baker in your life. For about $20, you can get everything you need to get started. It's a fun and recession-friendly way to entertain and thrill friends and guests. A total bargain for the kitchen. Cupcake_Kit.JPG The lovely booklet has 14 yummy recipes for year-round entertaining, as well as tips on ingredients, icing, and storage. Try your hand at making the pretty Chocolate Butterfly Cupcakes. Got a wedding reception? No problem. Whip up some Rose Petal Wedding Cupcakes. The White Christmas Cupcakes look so good I might make them now. And check out the cute Coconut Nests recipe below! It's sure to make you smile. Once you get the hang of it, get the matching companion The Cupcake Deck. The recipe cards are a great way to get more baking inspiration. Coconut Nests Makes 12 medium cupcakes These whimsical cupcakes are just right for Easter or any spring celebration. Pastel-colored jelly beans tucked into a coconut nest top the cupcakes, but small candy eggs or other pastel candies could also be used. Cupcakes 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature ¾ cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ cup buttermilk (any fat content) coconut_nests.jpg Coconut Nests Frosting ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups powdered sugar 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut 36 jelly beans, pastel-colored Position a rack in the middle of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 12 muffin tin cups with paper cupcake liners. Make the cupcakes. Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a medium bowl and set aside. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the butter and sugar until smoothly blended and lightened in color, about 1 minute. Stop the mixer an scrape the sides of the bowl as needed during mixing. Add the eggs one at a time, beating until each is blended into the batter and it looks creamy, about 1 minute. Mix in the vanilla. On low speed, add half of the flour mixture, mixing just to incorporate it. Mix in the buttermilk and blend in. Mix the remaining flour mixture until it is incorporated and the batter looks smooth. Fill each paper liner with a scant ¼ cup of batter (an ice cream scoop works well), to about ½ inch below the top of the liner. Bake just until the tops feel firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 18 minutes. The cupcakes will rise just above the paper liners. Cool the cupcakes for 10 minutes in the pan or on a wire rack. Remove them from the pan onto a wire rack and let cool completely. Make the frosting. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on low speed, beat the butter, cream cheese, and vanilla until smooth and thoroughly blended, about 1 minute. Stop the mixer and scrape the sides of the bowl as needed during mixing. Add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth, about 1 minute, then beat on medium speed for 1 minute to lighten the frosting further. Use a small spatula to spread about 3 tablespoons of frosting evenly over the top of each cupcake. Sprinkle the coconut generously over the frosting, leaving a small space in the center of the frosting of each cupcake uncovered (or lightly covered). Arrange 3 jelly beans in the center of the frosting to resemble eggs in a nest. Serve, or cover and refrigerate. The cupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. (Recipe used with permission from The Cupcake Kit, Elinor Klivans, Chronicle Books 2009)

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Tuesday
Mar172009

Lancome's New Blog and Giveaway

Lancôme's new beauty blog is launched! Headed by Kerry Diamond (former beauty editor, author, and VP of PR for the brand), she will be keeping us up to date with the latest on new products, spokespeople celebs (Anne Hathaway, Kate Winslet, Clive Owen), makeup artists, and models. genifique_lancome.jpg They're also gonna do lots of great giveaways.The first one is a giveaway on the new Génifique skincare product that is launching this month. They're giving away 10 bottles, so comment on their post and 10 readers will be chosen at random. Check the blog (and the new skin care and giveaway) out at: www.thelancomeblog.blogspot.com

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Tuesday
Mar172009

Ineeka

I think Ineeka teas have some of the best beverage packaging I've seen in recent memory. Their unique brew tache is an open infusion system that opens up to spread across a mug. It makes clean up very easy, that's for sure. No more straining or having messy loose tea leaves stuck on the tea pot. Just pour hot water, brew for a few minutes, toss the brew tache, and enjoy. Their sleek tins are also reusable and recyclable. machai_ineeka.jpg Their 100% organic teas are cultivated on their own family farms in the Himalayas (all 15,000 acres of it). Their fair trade and biodynamic practices help preserve their locally self-sustaining communities and eco-system. I liked the Ma-Chai tea. A recipe from the Ineeka family, the warm ginger, cardamom, and black pepper really stood out in the brew. It's perfect for a gentle wake me up in the afternoons when you need an energy boost. I also liked the regular mint tea. To learn more about Ineeka: www.ineeka.com

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Tuesday
Mar172009

Larkspur & Hawk

It seems like my list of things to covet is never-ending. Now I have to add Larkspur & Hawk's Small Anne Day/Night Earrings to the list. Inspired by a Queen Anne earring design, these gorgeous earrings are made of faceted white topaz stones, then backed with leaf foil in a 14k gold setting. The drops are removable for a day look, and you can wear them for an evening look. (Also available in white topaz with indigo foil; citrine with fuchsia foil; white topaz with scarlet foil) larkspur_hawk_green_earrings.jpganne_earrings2.jpg And how fantastic is this antique Chrysolite Cluster Ring (circa 1780)?? Wow. I so am drooling over this. Très élégante. Chrysolite was mined in Brazil in the 18th century and the popular stones are still sought after in modern times. I dunno about you, but I'd take this over any regular diamond ring. I just love color that dazzles the eye. larkspurhawk_chrysolite_ring.jpg The Grace Earrings are another favorite of mine...simply stunning. You can get this in rose quartz with indigo foil or green amethyst and leaf foil. grace_earrings_larkspurHawk.jpggrace_larkspurhawk.jpg Happy St. Patrick's Day! (Hmmm, perhaps that's why I subconsciously chose so many green colored jewelry to feature...)

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Friday
Mar132009

Lalicious Body Oil

Here's a great recessionista beauty find! LaLicious Body Oil is a great time save as an all-in-one product. It can act as a body moisturizer, cuticle creme, bath oil, shave cream, eye makeup remover, hair conditioner, fragrance, and massage oil. I like the Passionfruit Lime - it makes me smell like a fruity tropical drink. passionfruit_lime_oil.jpg It's made with a combo of several nourishing oils (coconut, almond, macadamia, etc.). You can also get this in other scents: Tahitian Flower, Coconut Cream, Peppermint, Island Guava, Lily Mango, and Vanilla. www.lalicious.com

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Thursday
Mar122009

IFB Links a la Mode March 12

As Paris fashion week wraps up, we're still sifting though the fashion week madness. A Balmaniac wonders why mess with perfection on Breakfast at Saks; Dogmom's Dish review McQueen for Target; Fashion Pulse Daily hits on Christian Soriano's shoes; Style Amor contemplates the dying magazine industry; 39th and Broadway talks about the plus size industry; and Retro Chick delves into the Primark Effect. Lastly, The Coveted reviews the Vivienne Tam HP Mini after a month of travelling and blogging.

The full version of Links á la Mode is in the forums; there's a lot of great posts there too. 39thandbroadway - Fashion’s Plus Size Dilemma; A different perspective on the plus size apparel industry. Breakfast at Saks - Biased Reporting on the Balmain show from a Balmain-iac Clutch 22 - Exploring Etsy - Three unique talents to watch Consume or Consumed - Stylish film looks channeled toward a more stylish life Debutante Clothing - Special Report: YSL Vintage Clothing Auction in Paris Dogmom's Dish - Alexander McQueen for Target: Post-Modern Punk Princess ericdwills.com - Kanye West x Louis Vuitton sneakers called the 'Don' and 'Hi Top' Fashion Pulse Daily - Fashion Week reviews, Christian Siriano's shoes, and much more! fete a fete - elegant FIEL flip flops, made with love from Brazil! Independent Fashion Bloggers - Privacy Tips for Bloggers IFB_linksalamode_march12.jpg Mademoiselle Robot - A love letter to Jeffrey Campbell Nico Assatly - New Spring Polish that will knock your socks off ! Retro Chick - The Primark Effect - Can cheap fashion be ethical fashion? Shopping and Info - Win a Twelfth Street By Cynthia Vincent Sweater from the Shopping and Info Spring Giveaway. Solo Lisa - Less expensive but equally charming alternatives to the new Tiffany key necklaces Studio Purpura - Milan Fashion Week Fall 2009 presents creative color schemes and designs to tickle your fancy!! Style Amor - THE DYING MAGAZINE: March U.S. Magazine Reviews Style Bite - Geared up for Etten Eller's Newest Collection Style Symmetry - Eyeliah loves to layer tights! Style With Anna - How to Dress Bohemian THE COVETED - A real life review of the Vivienne Tam HP Mini Original post at: http://independentfashionbloggers.org/2009/03/12/links-a-la-mode-ifb-weekly-roundup-11/

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