July 19, 2012 Vosges Haut-Chocolat's new Persia Collection is inspired by Jacqueline Topel, the winner of their Facebook Truffle Parfum Contest. The 41% milk chocolate ganache is scented with rose water and the exotic melange includes a dash of strawberry and meyer lemon gelée and pink peppercorns.
July 18, 2012 When asked to showcase things that get me excited about fashion, I couldn't wait to hand pick some lovely things that I adore. Like the Intel Ultrabook™, these selections are timeless star performers.
For example, this Betsey Johnson faux pearl rhinestone bracelet adds plenty of bling without overwhelming the entire ensemble. This statement accessory works day to night and can spruce up a casual jeans-and-tee look within seconds.
July 17, 2012 I didn't realize that Marie Veronique Organics had released an Extra Light Tint for their popular Moisturizing Face Screen SPF 30. In the past I was in between Light and Medium and was blending them together for the correct coverage. This new tint is supposed to be made for folks who don't want any color, so I decided to give it a try.
Beauty, Organic, San Francisco, Skincare July 11, 2012 Inspired by Hollywood icons from the late 1940s, the Laura Mercier Cinema Noir fall 2012 collection is filled with drama and intrigue. Muted, smoky blues and chocolates create sultry eyes while lips are washed in shades of rose and mauve.
July 9, 2012 Who knew that fermented milk could be transformed into a soft, luxurious fabric? I was amazed to find out that German fashion designer and biochemist Anke Domaske was able to invent QMilch, an eco-friendly fabric that is similar to the fine texture of silk.
Mademoiselle Chi Chi Spring/Summer 2012. Credit: Jannes Frubel Fotografie
July 5, 2012 Founded by ex-Peace Corps volunteers, Madécasse is an inspiring enterprise that makes bean-to-bar chocolate in Madagascar. The bars are sourced and produced within the African country, even the colorful paper wrappers. The cacao farmers are paid four times above fair trade prices for their beans, jobs are created locally and we get to taste good chocolate. It's a total win-win for everyone.
July 3, 2012 Taking a cue from the animal kingdom, Dior's new Golden Jungle makeup collection for fall 2012 is now on sale at Nordstrom. Comprised of neutral hues in the green, brown and gold families, these wearable shades will take you into the holiday season and beyond.
June 29, 2012
I was asked to tell an inspiring story of a teenager making a difference in her community. Without any hesitation, I chose Lauren Valdes.
When she was 14 years old, Lauren was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer. After consulting several surgeons and hospitals across the country, she eventually made the brave decision to amputate part of her right leg.
June 26, 2012 For a luxury spa resort that practices balance and wellness in everything it offers, Miraval spares no expense to keep your belly filled with healthy, delicious food. You can order room service 24/7 and their juice bar is loaded with coffee and low-fat baked goods (essential for 6am hikes). Feeling naughty? You can opt for a burger while sunbathing by the pool - and don't forget to grab an alcoholic drink while you're at it. In other words, you can indulge in anything your heart desires without the guilt.
Miraval's Caramelized Three-Onion Polenta "Lasagne."
June 25, 2012 Last week I had the amazing opportunity to experience Miraval, a global destination spa resort in Tucson, Arizona. To celebrate their new partnership Clarins invited a group of lifestyle and beauty bloggers to check out the new Life in Balance Spa with Clarins. Their service menu was also revamped to feature plant-based skincare from the venerable French beauty company.
Photo Credit: Miraval 2012