fête à fête

I had raved about the amazing effects of Nectar Essences in the past, and their De Stress spray keeps me sane while battling daily stresses. This incredible line of holistic sprays will address everything from regulating sleep problems to balancing emotional ups and downs. Plus, these floral sprays smell so good!

Luckily for you, we're doing a special giveaway of the new Balance spray for one lucky reader!

To Enter:

Step 1: Tweet this post on Twitter (RT @feteafete Nectar Essences giveaway http://tinyurl.com/lkcakc ). IF you don't have a Twitter account, please leave an interesting comment below this post on which formula you'd like to try (don't send generic ones like 'this sounds great').

Step 2: Email your full name & mailing address to feteafeteswag@gmail.com. Be sure to enter 'Nectar Esssences Giveaway' in the subject line and your unlocked Twitter link in the body. DO NOT forget to email your name & address after you comment or tweet, or you'll be disqualified automatically!

One winner will be chosen at random. Deadline is Thursday, October 1, at 11:59pm EST. U.S. residents only. Good luck!

Tagged as: giveaway, health, Lifestyle

Posted by Tami Yu at 7:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

I'm a devoted fan of Vouelle's ultra romantic shoes and I was terribly excited to see their new designs for the Fall/Winter 2009-2010 season. They're getting a bit more funky and whimsical, which is always a fun thing for all the holiday parties and soirées. Just look at this showstopper 4C stiletto! Aren't those patent leather pinwheels completely adorable? If you wear this shoe, you can be sure no one else will have it.

Vouelle's 4C stiletto

I so want these Dana R satin pumps. It may be in black, but the ruffled side decoration and sexy feathers will turn heads all evening. They just scream 'Paris chic' to me.

Dana R pump

And who can resist these Emma pumps? These sassy satin and patent leather heels are totally great on their own, but you can also get a custom pinwheel added to your shoes for that extra special accent.

Emma 75 pump with pinwheel option

For you American shopaholics, I've got great news. Vouelle just started selling their lovely shoes in the U.S.! If you're in the Las Vegas area, the In Step boutique inside the Wynn's Encore resort will carry some of their exclusive designs. Call them at 702-770-5490 for more info.

To see more designs, head over to www.vouelle.com.

Tagged as: Accessories, fashion, France, Luxury, shoes, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I thought I've seen it all with the latest skin care trends, but the gorgeous SenSpa had something truly unique to offer in terms of skin exfoliation and renewal. I recently tried the amazing Super Hydrating Facial, one of the most popular services at SenSpa. I didn't really know what the hype was all about, but I can now attest to amazing results from this treatment.

The facial features a patented HydraFacial machine that performs a really efficient surface exfoliation. The HydraPeel tip planes off the dead skin cells, revealing brighter and softer "baby" cells (don't worry, it won't hurt at all). The tip also flushes your skin with a special blend of antioxidant-infused fruit acids. A custom mask and additional protective serums are then applied, ensuring all pigmentation and anti-aging issues are addressed.

I haven't seen this type of exfoliating machine anywhere else, so I think they're the only ones that have this special treatment in the Bay Area. I couldn't believe how butter soft my skin is. This is as close to baby skin as I'm going to get!

This day spa is really a zen oasis sitting on the edge of the Presidio. They really emphasize wellness and holistic treatments to heal your body and soul. They even have a wellness coach to help you address your personal needs. How cool is that?

There is a special skin care package going on right now at SenSpa. The first 50 folks to book the new Polarity Peel will receive a free full-size bottle of the new SkinCeuticals Retexturizing Activator ($70 value). What a deal.

Another promotion, called the SenSpa Road to Recovery, is another sweet deal to think about. From now through September 30, when you enjoy 4 treatments (valued at a minimum of $110 each), you'll receive a SenSpa gift card worth $115. You don't need to pay for all 4 treatments up front - just pay as you go.

They're also hosting a Stella & Dot trunk show on Tuesday, September 29th from 6:30-8:30pm. Try on gorgeous costume jewelry and enjoy light refreshments in the spa’s serene Presidio setting. BONUS: book any SenSpa treatment while at the event and you’re automatically entered into a drawing for Stella & Dot gift certificates!

SenSpa
1161 Gorgas Avenue
San Francisco, CA
415.441.1777

www.senspa.com

Tagged as: beauty, Lifestyle, Luxury, San Francisco, skin care, special events, travel

Posted by Tami Yu at 2:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Want more dramatic eyes for this season's makeup look? Bobbi Brown has a new Metallic Long-Wear Cream Shadow that gives a dazzling high-shimmer effect. The line comes in 8 shades and you can layer it over your favorite shadow to make it pop. You can also use your fingers to apply, so there's no need to get an extra brush just for this product. The generous amount in the pot should also last you for a while.

The Antique Gold is a deep gold sparkle that will be a great base for all those evening looks. The Starry Night is a pretty navy blue sparkle that is pretty sheer - great for layering. It didn't slide, crease, or fade off one bit. You do need to apply it quickly before it dries off, otherwise it might be tricky to re-touch. You also need to be real diligent about cleaning the shadow off. It's super glittery, so make sure you use a good eye makeup remover.

I also really liked the Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Caviar Ink. It's one of the smoother gel liners in the market, and it comes off pretty easily. I hate to admit it, but I like it better than the Shu Uemura painting liners. I also liked the matching Eye Liner Brush - it makes application so easy-peasy. I love drawing a thicker line, so this brush is perfect for it.

www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com

Tagged as: beauty, eyeliner, eyeshadow, makeup brush, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Clarins has always believed in using botanicals for their skin care products, and their new line is no different. The Multi-Active Day collection features two key ingredients (Ambiaty and Heperidin) to deliver powerful antioxidants and to prevent cellular breakdown. The line also features Quinoa Seed to nourish the skin, and Katafray extract provides extra hydration to the skin barrier.

This line is aimed at fighting early wrinkles, so it's more for younger skin (ages 25-35) or those with relatively low levels of skin damage. The Multi-Active Day Early Wrinkle Correcting Lotion SPF 15 provides a weightless texture that your skin will just drink up. It's so light I almost had to check if I'm actually wearing the lotion. This is ideal for oily skin, but it's suitable for all skin types.

The Multi-Active Day Early Wrinkle Correction Cream also has shea butter to give an extra moisturizing oomph. I like the texture of this cream a bit better. This comes in three formulas: All Skin Types, Dry Skin, and Normal to Combination.

clarins.com

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ladies...got any plans next Tuesday evening? If not, you should check out the Fashion, Fun & Bubbles Cocktail Party at Silks Restaurant. Located inside the Mandarin Oriental, attendees will be able to sip on all the Domaine Chandon Champagne they can handle, participate in a Krug Champagne tasting, and best of all, experience the Shu Uemura cosmetics line.

Other fun highlights include:

• Belvedere Cocktail Bar
• Culinary Delights by Orlando Pagan, Chef de Cuisine of Silks
• Introducing the Fall line of VindyCo, San Francisco’s up and coming fashion designer
• Marisa Youlden Jewelry
• Music from Carl Banks
• Complimentary Goody Bags for first 50 tickets purchased
• Door Prizes and Raffles

Ticket prices: $40 each OR $75 for two!

Tuesday, September 22
7:30 - 10:30 pm
Silks (Mandarin Oriental Hotel)
222 Sansome Street
San Francisco

*For more information or to purchase tickets contact Priscilla Young at 415.276.9773 or email pyoung@mohg.com.

Tagged as: beauty, champagne, fashion, food, San Francisco, special events, wine

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

When thinking about weekend trips in Wine Country, most folks think of Napa or Sonoma. If you've already been to those areas, Paso Robles might be a great new option. This 'undiscovered' wine region boasts more than 200 wineries, so you'll be very busy tasting as many wines as you can. Hearst Castle is also close by, if you want to stretch out your stay.

If you do go there, the downtown area is a good home base. The lovely Hotel Cheval is the perfect spot for some well-deserved R&R. This intimate boutique hotel is a mini oasis that's just off the historic downtown area. Their airy and spacious rooms are well-appointed; I loved the high vaulted ceilings and cozy window seating area. Each of these stylish rooms also feature luxurious California King beds (so so comfy), soft down comforters, 400-thread count sheets, and flat-screen televisions.

The hotel also provides in-room spa treatments (massages, body scrubs, reflexology and facials). All you have to do is throw on a robe, sit back and enjoy the pampering treatment. There's no need to walk to any spa treatment room outside. I got the Cheval Signature Massage and it was so relaxing I caught myself drifting off to dreamland.

The concierge was really accommodating. We arrived right before the huge dinner rush and she was able to score us last-minute reservations at the totally awesome Artisan Restaurant. And, to transport you to your dinner in grand style, Chester the adorable Red Belgian Draft horse will carry you off on a fun carriage ride to and from the restaurant.

There's a few great packages currently available for your getaway. If you're a wine lover, there's a personalized Wine Tasting package that includes a detailed wine tour led by a certified Sommelier. A private picnic lunch will also be served at one of the wineries.

For a romantic rendezvous, The Couples/Elopement package includes a complimentary bottle of champagne for you to toast your beloved. Afterwards, both of you can enjoy a sensual Candlelit Couples Massage together in the privacy of your own room. If you do decide to get hitched, their gorgeous outdoor courtyard can hold up to 50 guests.

For more info and to book your package, go to www.hotelcheval.com.

Tagged as: hotel, Lifestyle, Luxury, travel, vacation, wine country

Posted by Tami Yu at 9:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

Shifting Gears

Edited by Jennine

It's here. Summer's (basically) over, back to school, back to work...even in fashion today is the official first day of Fashion Week madness, and New York is only the beginning. I've always thought once Labor Day rolled around, we shifted gears realizing that the year is almost out its time to start packing it all in! This week, we've got an amazing round of links...seriously, it was so hard to pick only 20. Style Amor wonders if we really need fashion week at all...Heavy Heels sense the Winds of Change, as models start chopping their locks, The Demoiselles start a getting healthy project for a bunch of ladies, kaKofonie Of si(gh)lenS gets an remarkable interview with Patricia Ayers.

Art of Accessories - Translating the Trends: Ruffles
BRICK MY LANE - The ruffled neckpiece: part 2
dramatis personae - Plus-Sized Bras for Busty Gals Fashion Hippo - Giveaway: Tory Burch Logo Clutch
Fashion Pulse Daily - FelixRey.com: Fashion Pulse Daily Readers Get an Exclusive 20% Off!
fete a fete - Giorgio Armani Beauty Fall 2009 Manta Ray & Eyes To Kill collections
Heavy Heels - Wind of Change
Idiosyncratic Style - IdStyle File: Kaitlyn Regehr
Independent Fashion Bloggers - How Important is Trust? A Review of Trust Agents
Intrinsically Florrie - Luella Loveage
kaKofonie Of si(gh)lenS - Interview with Patricia Ayres
Little Miss Makeup - Is applying liquid eyeliner your biggest beauty frustration?
Meilily - Ruffled Makeup Bag by Christian Siriano for VS Makeup
Retro Chick - Planning an Autumn Winter 2009-10 Wardrobe
Style Amor - Do We Need Fashion Week?
Style it You - Breaking Barriers
Style Symmetry - The Last Hurrah Giveaway
Stylish Thought - Stylish Thoughts on Coco, Karl & Feminism Super Kawaii Mama - Worn Wild – MSFW’s Dark Side
THE COVETED - Mahtab Azimi's Cozy Little Black Dress
The Demoiselles - We're Getting Healthy

Tagged as: beauty, fashion, Lifestyle, shopping, Style

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I'm quite wary of any baked goods that label themselves healthy or gluten-free. It just sounds too good to be true and most of the time, it is. But after a couple friends raved about the Mariposa Baking Company, I decided to try their baked goods for myself.

First of all, their Triple Chocolate Truffle Brownies are beyond amazing. I couldn't believe they're gluten-free. Moist and rich, they're super packed with chocolate. If you served these to others they'd never know that it's made without wheat flour. They use a special blend of organic brown rice flour, potato starch and tapioca flour.

Their Almond Biscotti is another hit. These perfectly crunchy snacks are pretty addictive - I can't seem to eat just one piece. They're are also dairy free. For those who like dense cakes, their Sour Cream Coffeecake and their vegan Apple Spice Peace Cake will hit the spot. Again, you will not think these are gluten-free cakes. They're that good.

www.mariposabaking.com

Tagged as: brownies, cake, dessert, food, gluten-free, healthy

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Partnering with renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath, Dolce & Gabbana's The Make Up collection is too luxurious for words. With the glamorous Scarlett Johansson as the face of their ad campaign, she perfectly embodies the provocative spirit of this seductive line.

The gold metal packaging makes you feel like a million bucks, but the contents within is even better. With a powdery rose scent, the Classic Cream Lipstick is inspired by 1950s beauty. The formula is light yet creamy, giving the right amount of moisture on the lips. I don't normally wear bold red shades, but the cool and pearly Chromed 230 was the perfect femme fatale look for me. I love it. This also lasts for quite a long time, and it's the first red lipstick that didn't bleed! That in itself is worth buying this lipstick.

For the eyes, the Smooth Eye Colour Quad is your ticket to sophistication. All the colors are buildable, so they actually appear lighter on the lid. To get a smokier look all you have to do is add more layering. The silky texture feels great on the skin, and you can use a wet or dry brush to create various looks. The gorgeous Mediterraneo palette has warm shades of shimmery gold, forest green, matte brown, and deep silver while the Elegance palette contains shades of matte grey, steel grey, metallic green, and porcelain gold shimmer.

The Luminous Cheek Colour blush is one of the most decadent blush compacts I've seen. It comes with a sturdy mini brush that actually does a good job of depositing the right amount of color on the cheeks. The Rose shade is soft and delicate, giving a romantic wash of color that's also good for subtle contouring around the temples and chin.

www.dolcegabbanamakeup.com

Tagged as: beauty, blush, cosmetics, eye shadow, fashion, Lifestyle, lipstick, Luxury, makeup, shopping

Posted by Tami Yu at 3:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0)

I couldn't ask for a lovelier holiday weekend. I went to the 30th Annual Showcase: Taste of Sonoma (part of Sonoma Wine Country Weekend) in Healdsburg, and the drive to MacMurray Ranch was just plain gorgeous.

With over 160 wineries offering the best regional wines, this is one of the largest epicurean events in Northern CA. You can also spend hours tasting local food from 60 restaurants. Let's just say your belly will be quite full by the time it's over.

Pulled Duck & Pork Belly Sandwich from Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar

If you had too much to eat and drink, there was plenty of chef action at the Gourmet Kitchen demos. Chef Douglas Keane of Cyrus (looove that place) was one of the judges at a Steel Chef Competition.

Being a total sweet tooth, I had to try these delish Mini Chocolate S'mores Tarts from El Dorado Kitchen. To really seal the deal, these were paired with Valrhona Chocolate Cookies topped with sea salt and white chocolate chips. Needless to say, I went home a happy camper.

Tagged as: food, gourmet, Lifestyle, special events, travel, wine, wine country, wine tasting

Posted by Tami Yu at 1:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

Style Within Means

Edited by Debutante Clothing

As the summer winds down and I start planning my Fall wardrobe, I’m overwhelmed by thoughts of how to create a wardrobe on a budget. This week, we have a ton of posts on how to find great style within a budget. Fashion Pulse Daily gives us the top denim looks under $50 and The Recessionista is reporting Anna Wintour is heading to Macy’s for Fashion Night Out. Enjoy!

39th and Broadway – The horrific treatment of young girls working behind the scenes in the fashion industry!
A typical Atypical – a summary of vintage eras and style history
Bonne Vie – Bamboo: Eco-friendly, or Green Disaster?
Confessions of a Fashion Editor – Interview with alternative model, Khrist!
Debutante Clothing – Q&A with Fashion Scholar and Historian Heather Vaughan
Decline Designs – Can you go a week without wearing any black?
Fabulous Finds and Co. – Lily Cole is ready for her close-up
Fade to c5c5c5 – fashion, art and interpretation
Fashion For Writers – feel good fashion from the Clothes Closet
Fashion Pulse Daily – Need jeans for fall? Check out Fashion Pulse Daily’s top picks, all under $50
Fasshonaburu ponders exactly why September is the most important month in fashion
fête à fête – Givenchy’s romantic Les Poetiques Fall Le Makeup Collection
Friend in fashion – A Sydney Story: a bridge climb, shopping and a proposal!
Grechen's Closet – Why I support independent designers
Idiosyncratic Style – A Fit of Inspiration: John Bender – Stealing style from the Breakfast Club’s resident bad ass
Jewelrywhore – Reviews Anna Sheffield for Target
Retro Chick – DIY Jersey Spaghetti Scarf Necklace
Style Margarine - – 9 Reasons why we need to over dress
Stylist Diva – Unique, Modern Plus Size line with an Edge – Carmakoma.
The Coveted: Review & Makeup Lesson Video of Guerlain Fall Collection
The Recessionista – Anna Wintour a Recessionista? She’s Heading to Macy’s Queens for Fashion’s Night out Sept. 10

Tagged as: beauty, fashion, Lifestyle, shopping, Style

Posted by Tami Yu at 11:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Shopaholics in NYC, mark your calendars so you don't miss the exciting Fashion's Night Out event. The entire city will be buzzing with tons of shopping deals on the evening of September 10. To celebrate fashion and to promote the economy, everyone from Versace to Kiehl's will be offering giveaways and exclusive parties on this special occasion.

In honor of Fashion Night Out, Jurlique will be offering a free, full-size cleanser with any purchase of two products or more (a $40 value). A favorite among celebrities such as Kate Moss and Maggie Gyllenhaal, their products are made with certified biodynamic botanicals. See for yourself at the Madison Avenue and West Broadway (Soho) stores.

While you're there, don't forget to smell the new and incredible Jasmine Shower Gel. It's the next best thing to having a jasmine garden! Comprised of 92% natural ingredients, this gentle body cleanser has a proprietary biodynamic blend of herbs and botanicals to keep your skin soft and hydrated. If you're in need of new skin care, the Purely Age-Defying Eye Cream and Purely Age-Defying Hand Treatment are both luxurious, high-performance products that will fight the aging process. Both items have a great moisture factor and contain ingredients such as Black Elder and Arnica to fade off the fine lines and discolorations.

If you're not in NYC, don't fret just yet. To kick off the festivities, Jurlique is doing a special giveaway with us! We're giving away the Replenishing Foaming Cleanser (retail value $40) to one lucky reader.

To Enter:

Step 1: Tweet this post on Twitter (RT @feteafete Jurlique Giveaway http://tinyurl.com/ndfpye ). IF you don't have a Twitter account, please leave an interesting comment below this post on which product you'd like to try (don't send generic ones like 'this sounds great').

Step 2: Email your full name & mailing address to feteafeteswag@gmail.com. Be sure to enter 'Jurlique Giveaway' in the subject line and your unlocked Twitter link in the body. DO NOT forget to email your name & address after you comment or tweet, or you'll be disqualified automatically!

One winner will be chosen at random. Deadline is Thursday, September 10, at 11:59pm EST. USA residents only. Good luck!

Tagged as: beauty, body wash, fashion, giveaway, moisturizer, NYC, shopping, skin care, special events

Posted by Tami Yu at 6:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBacks (0)