Thursday, July 31, 2008
Miami Art Museum: Selections from the Permanent Collection Exhibit
What:
Selections from the Permanent Collection
The exhibition will include a selection of major works from the Miami Art Museum's (MAM) expanding permanent collection. The collection spans international art of the 20th and 21st centuries, with a focus on art of the western hemisphere since 1950. MAM’s ten-year-old collection has been growing since the 2004 announcement of plans to build a new museum in Miami’s Museum Park. The installation will combine old favorites from the collection, such as Frank Stella’s Chodorów II and Morris Louis’ Beth Shin with more recent acquisitions, such as Kehinde Wiley's Regard the Class Struggle as a Main Link in the Chain and Emilio Perez' In the middle of something.
When:
August 8 – November 2, 2008
Where:
Plaza Level Gallery of the Miami Art Museum
101 West Flagler Street
Miami, Florida, 33130
Telephone: 305-375-3000
Hours:
Mondays: Closed
Tues. - Fri.: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Third Thursdays: JAM@MAM Third Thursdays 5pm-9pm
Sat. - Sun.: noon (12:00 pm) - 5:00 pm
Price/Fee:
Standard Admission:
Members: Free
Adults: $8.00
Children under 12: Free
Students with ID: Free
Seniors: $4.00
Special Admission:
Second Saturdays: Free
Combination Ticket to both MAM and Historical Museum: $10.00
JAM@MAM: $10.00
Selections from the Permanent Collection is organized by Miami Art Museum and curated by Assistant Director for Programs/Senior Curator Peter Boswell. It is supported by MAM’s Annual Exhibition Fund.
4 Easy Summer Hairstyles from Glamour
Stop wishing you're stuck on a island a la Brooke Shields in Blue Lagoon to get the most irresistible summer hair. Glamour magazine has four summer sexy hairstyles that are easy to do and will have you feeling sexier this summer despite the rising temptures.
Style and Focus
Easy Summer Hair Ideas from Glamour
This is no time of year to be stuck in a steamy bathroom wrestling with a heat-styling appliance. Meet our four favorite low-effort looks:
A Pretty Ponytail
The ponytail is a classic summer hairstyle but why not give it a sexy upgrade. To create this look: You can pull off this quick upgrade even without the fancy headband. In fact, you may have tried this move back in junior high--slick your hair back into a basic pony, then add extra elastics every couple of inches down the tail (or for shorter hair, every inch) The trick that makes the look more Grecian goddess than phys-ed-esque: Gently tug the hair between each elastic to give it some pretty poof.
Grown-up Pigtails
The pigtails, long associated with being cute has now been upgraded to sultry. These low, messy ponies will keep hair off your face on a 90-degree day while still giving you a sexy, hair-down look. And you won't have to work up a sweat styling them either. To create this look: Just center-part your hair using your fingers (a comb would make it too neat) and secure each side into a pigtail at the nape of your neck, loosening some pieces above the elastics and finger-teasing the tails to add volume.
Beach-babe Waves
It's no fun wearing your hair back every day. Don't let your fear of frizz make you forgo a sexy beach-babe mane. To create this look: Spritz leave-in conditioner onto damp hair (bonus if you've been swimming in salt water--that'll add sexy texture) and twist into two big buns, pinning them high on your head. Let them dry while you chill in the sun, or wear them overnight, then unpin and tousle. Suddenly, the humidity will be your volume-boosting best friend!
The Lazy-girl Updo
Buns might be the most underrated summer hair trick--they're completely chic and humidity-proof. To create this look: Just make a low, sleek pony, loosely twist the tail into a bun and secure with a few bobby pins. (Bonus: It works as well with damp hair as dry.) This season, try dressing yours up by sliding in a bunch of glitzy hair sticks or by adding a pretty headband.
Style and Focus
Easy Summer Hair Ideas from Glamour
This is no time of year to be stuck in a steamy bathroom wrestling with a heat-styling appliance. Meet our four favorite low-effort looks:
A Pretty Ponytail
The ponytail is a classic summer hairstyle but why not give it a sexy upgrade. To create this look: You can pull off this quick upgrade even without the fancy headband. In fact, you may have tried this move back in junior high--slick your hair back into a basic pony, then add extra elastics every couple of inches down the tail (or for shorter hair, every inch) The trick that makes the look more Grecian goddess than phys-ed-esque: Gently tug the hair between each elastic to give it some pretty poof.
Grown-up Pigtails
The pigtails, long associated with being cute has now been upgraded to sultry. These low, messy ponies will keep hair off your face on a 90-degree day while still giving you a sexy, hair-down look. And you won't have to work up a sweat styling them either. To create this look: Just center-part your hair using your fingers (a comb would make it too neat) and secure each side into a pigtail at the nape of your neck, loosening some pieces above the elastics and finger-teasing the tails to add volume.
Beach-babe Waves
It's no fun wearing your hair back every day. Don't let your fear of frizz make you forgo a sexy beach-babe mane. To create this look: Spritz leave-in conditioner onto damp hair (bonus if you've been swimming in salt water--that'll add sexy texture) and twist into two big buns, pinning them high on your head. Let them dry while you chill in the sun, or wear them overnight, then unpin and tousle. Suddenly, the humidity will be your volume-boosting best friend!
The Lazy-girl Updo
Buns might be the most underrated summer hair trick--they're completely chic and humidity-proof. To create this look: Just make a low, sleek pony, loosely twist the tail into a bun and secure with a few bobby pins. (Bonus: It works as well with damp hair as dry.) This season, try dressing yours up by sliding in a bunch of glitzy hair sticks or by adding a pretty headband.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Wednesdays Beauty Picks
Even though I'm away on a business trip I found some beauty products you might be interested in. I'm a huge fan of the Boots products and I love their reviving eye gel. Also included are seven more beauty picks worth trying.
Boots No7 Reviving Eye Gel
$11.99
Target
New mark Juice Gems
Flavored high-shine gloss, Ten shades available
$6.00 each
Phenomen Oil
Intensive Moisturizing Cuticle Oil
$12.40
jessicacosmetics.com
New Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector
$39.50
SMN (Santa Maria Novella) Lip Moisturizer
Enriched with cocoa butter, olive oil, vitamins E and F and calendula extract
$22.00
lafcony.com
New The Lash Stash
Mascara sampler set
$28.00
Only at Sephora
Bath & Body Works Signature Collection
Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner in Mango Mandarin
$7.50 each or 2 for $10.00
More posts tomorrow
Boots No7 Reviving Eye Gel
$11.99
Target
New mark Juice Gems
Flavored high-shine gloss, Ten shades available
$6.00 each
Phenomen Oil
Intensive Moisturizing Cuticle Oil
$12.40
jessicacosmetics.com
New Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector
$39.50
SMN (Santa Maria Novella) Lip Moisturizer
Enriched with cocoa butter, olive oil, vitamins E and F and calendula extract
$22.00
lafcony.com
New The Lash Stash
Mascara sampler set
$28.00
Only at Sephora
Bath & Body Works Signature Collection
Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner in Mango Mandarin
$7.50 each or 2 for $10.00
More posts tomorrow
Friday, July 25, 2008
What to Watch Tonight: Monk and Psych 7/25/08
Last Friday, I didn't get to post that Monk and Psych were premiering. As you can check from my prior posts, these are two of my favorite shows. If you haven't check out these shows start tonight. They are two of best shows on.
Friday
9:00PM EST (Check local listings for time)
Monk 60min USA Network
Tonight's episode is about Monk (Tony Shalhoub) trying to compete against a chess master (David Strathairn) whom he suspects of killing his wife.
10:00PM EST
Psych 60min USA Network
The theme of the evening is Murder and the setting a High-School Reunion. Shawn (James Roday) and Gus (Dule Hill) look into a death of a possible alumni.
Friday
9:00PM EST (Check local listings for time)
Monk 60min USA Network
Tonight's episode is about Monk (Tony Shalhoub) trying to compete against a chess master (David Strathairn) whom he suspects of killing his wife.
10:00PM EST
Psych 60min USA Network
The theme of the evening is Murder and the setting a High-School Reunion. Shawn (James Roday) and Gus (Dule Hill) look into a death of a possible alumni.
Friday's Happy Hour Drink: Cosmic-Politan
This drink is perfect for a hot summer day or evening. Not only does it taste great but it looks great served at a party.
Cosmic-Politan (from CocktailTimes.com)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ice
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz Cointreau
- 1 tbsp grenadine
- 1 cup watermelon puree
- For garnish: 1 mini skewer of a small piece of watermelon, pineapple and a small strawberry
Directions:
1. Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a fruit skewer.
To make watermelon puree:
1. Remove seed then place sliced watermelon in a blender and blend until smooth.
Remember: Drink Responsibly and Don't Drink & Drive
Have a good Weekend!!!
Cosmic-Politan (from CocktailTimes.com)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ice
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz Cointreau
- 1 tbsp grenadine
- 1 cup watermelon puree
- For garnish: 1 mini skewer of a small piece of watermelon, pineapple and a small strawberry
Directions:
1. Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a fruit skewer.
To make watermelon puree:
1. Remove seed then place sliced watermelon in a blender and blend until smooth.
Remember: Drink Responsibly and Don't Drink & Drive
Have a good Weekend!!!
Style and Focus News Bites
** Environment: Johnny Depp to Invest in Solar Power Engery for Private Island. Depp is estimated to spend $500,000 on a sun-powered system for his private island home. The pioneering system will convert sunlight into electricity, providing sufficient power to run his home. Depp's environmentally friendly lifestyle recently earned him a nomination for the ultimate green celebrity. (People magazine)
** Publishing: Hachette Filipacchi Media Teams Up with ELLE DECOR and Metropolitan Home to Form the Luxury Design Group. Jack Kliger, President and CEO, of Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. (HFM U.S.), announced that the company has formed the Luxury Design Group to create a unified leadership structure which brings together the strategic sales and marketing power of two affluent and distinct brands -- ELLE DECOR and Metropolitan Home.
The Luxury Design Group will complement the global network of titles owned by HFM U.S.'s parent company Lagardere Active. This upscale network was enlarged in April 2008 with the acquisition of the Massin Group, the French leader in decoration magazines and publisher of its two flagship magazines Art & Decoration and Maison & Travaux. (Press Release)
** Entertainment: New Kids on the Block have confirmed that on their new upcoming album they will be collaborating with New Edition on a new song, tittled "Full Service" (E!)
** Entertainment: BET Networks and Marvel Animation are teaming up to produce an animated series based on the legendary superhero, "The Black Panther". Casting is already underway for the series that is slated to premiere in the first quarter of 2009. A special sneak preview will premiere at Comic-Con. The series will be adapted directly from the first six issues of the Marvel Comic written by Reginald Hudlin. (Press Release)
** Bars/Restaurants: Heath Ledger's bar, Five Leaves, to open in Brooklyn. A bar Heath Ledger invested in before he died will open as planned. The late actor's dad Kim, the executor of his estate, has released the funds for the bar. (Now magazine)
** Art/Home & Garden: Fashion designer Stella McCartney and her father Paul McCartney attended a private viewing of furniture pieces created by her husband, Alasdhair Willis' furniture company, Established & Sons held in St James' Park. (Hello magazine)
(Click pictures for better view)
** Publishing: Hachette Filipacchi Media Teams Up with ELLE DECOR and Metropolitan Home to Form the Luxury Design Group. Jack Kliger, President and CEO, of Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. (HFM U.S.), announced that the company has formed the Luxury Design Group to create a unified leadership structure which brings together the strategic sales and marketing power of two affluent and distinct brands -- ELLE DECOR and Metropolitan Home.
The Luxury Design Group will complement the global network of titles owned by HFM U.S.'s parent company Lagardere Active. This upscale network was enlarged in April 2008 with the acquisition of the Massin Group, the French leader in decoration magazines and publisher of its two flagship magazines Art & Decoration and Maison & Travaux. (Press Release)
** Entertainment: New Kids on the Block have confirmed that on their new upcoming album they will be collaborating with New Edition on a new song, tittled "Full Service" (E!)
** Entertainment: BET Networks and Marvel Animation are teaming up to produce an animated series based on the legendary superhero, "The Black Panther". Casting is already underway for the series that is slated to premiere in the first quarter of 2009. A special sneak preview will premiere at Comic-Con. The series will be adapted directly from the first six issues of the Marvel Comic written by Reginald Hudlin. (Press Release)
** Bars/Restaurants: Heath Ledger's bar, Five Leaves, to open in Brooklyn. A bar Heath Ledger invested in before he died will open as planned. The late actor's dad Kim, the executor of his estate, has released the funds for the bar. (Now magazine)
** Art/Home & Garden: Fashion designer Stella McCartney and her father Paul McCartney attended a private viewing of furniture pieces created by her husband, Alasdhair Willis' furniture company, Established & Sons held in St James' Park. (Hello magazine)
(Click pictures for better view)
Labels:
Art,
Bars and Restaurants,
Entertainment,
Environment,
Home and Garden,
Publishing
Friday Fashion Pick: 3 Midsummer Outfits for 3 Occasions
Your summer schedule is packed with things to do, people to see and places to go and your wardrobe should reflect that. You never know what the day may bring, you should have something in your closet for almost every occassion for instance just incase you're invited to an imprompto summer wedding.
Building a versatile wardrobe doesn't me going out buying a lot of clothes, just buy basic staple pieces you can mix and match that will give you lots of options to create different looks. Then sprinkle your wardrobe with a few special occasion pieces such as the important date dress, the interview suit, etc.
Below are three summer outfits for three general occasions:
Movies with the Girls
Hanging with your girls is usually a relaxing experience and hitting the movies shouldn't be any different. Instead of just throwing on whatever, pair a flowy top with a great pair of jeans. Even though it's a casual night out, you never know who you might bump into. You want to look nice but not look like you're trying too hard.
Embroidered Peasant Top $22.80 Forever21
Dvb (Denim by Victoria Beckham) Worn Bootcut Denim
Gold Embroidered Stars on back pockets
$219.00 eModa.com
Brunch with Parents
Wearing something ladylike will subtly give your parents the impression that you are fairing well in the big city or where ever you moved to after college. The outfit shouldn't say, "I spent all night partying and this is the only thing I had energy to put on", the outfit should say that "I enjoy our weekly or monthly Sunday brunches together so much that I put in effort to look nice just for you". Pair a sleek cardigan over a tank and flowy skirt for that casual superchic refinement.
City Style Button Front Cardigan $32.95 New York & Co.
Essential Tank $14.50 GAP
Embroidered Swing Skirt $24.80 Forever21
Date Night
A red dress is classic femme fatal and will keep all eyes on you but most importantly your date's. The message will translate as your daring and simply irresistible. It's easy to just put on a sexy top with pants or jeans but that's too easy. Take a risk and ditch the date 'uniform' and wear an undeniable sexy red dress.
Pleated Skirt Dropwaist Slip Dress $88.00 Free People
Building a versatile wardrobe doesn't me going out buying a lot of clothes, just buy basic staple pieces you can mix and match that will give you lots of options to create different looks. Then sprinkle your wardrobe with a few special occasion pieces such as the important date dress, the interview suit, etc.
Below are three summer outfits for three general occasions:
Movies with the Girls
Hanging with your girls is usually a relaxing experience and hitting the movies shouldn't be any different. Instead of just throwing on whatever, pair a flowy top with a great pair of jeans. Even though it's a casual night out, you never know who you might bump into. You want to look nice but not look like you're trying too hard.
Embroidered Peasant Top $22.80 Forever21
Dvb (Denim by Victoria Beckham) Worn Bootcut Denim
Gold Embroidered Stars on back pockets
$219.00 eModa.com
Brunch with Parents
Wearing something ladylike will subtly give your parents the impression that you are fairing well in the big city or where ever you moved to after college. The outfit shouldn't say, "I spent all night partying and this is the only thing I had energy to put on", the outfit should say that "I enjoy our weekly or monthly Sunday brunches together so much that I put in effort to look nice just for you". Pair a sleek cardigan over a tank and flowy skirt for that casual superchic refinement.
City Style Button Front Cardigan $32.95 New York & Co.
Essential Tank $14.50 GAP
Embroidered Swing Skirt $24.80 Forever21
Date Night
A red dress is classic femme fatal and will keep all eyes on you but most importantly your date's. The message will translate as your daring and simply irresistible. It's easy to just put on a sexy top with pants or jeans but that's too easy. Take a risk and ditch the date 'uniform' and wear an undeniable sexy red dress.
Pleated Skirt Dropwaist Slip Dress $88.00 Free People
The Pilates, Yoga, and Tai Chi Energy-Boosting Workout, Set 3
1. Warrior 1
Strengthens: Legs, Glutes, Core; Stretches Back
* Stand with feet 3 to 4 feet apart.
* Turn left foot out 90 degrees, pointing to left side, and pivot right foot toward left.
* Bend left knee 90 degrees, knee aligned with ankle; turn hips to face over left thigh.
* Place hands on hips (easier) or raise both arms overhead, palms facing each other (more challenging).
* Hold for 7 to 10 breaths. Go directly to Tuck and Extend.
2. Tuck and Extend
Strengthens: Arms, Chest, Glutes; Stretches Hips
* From Warrior 1, sweep arms down to touch floor on either side of left foot.
* Step both feet back behind you.
* Inhale, then exhale as you lift right foot off the floor and sweep knee under body (not shown).
* Straighten right leg behind you, lifting it as high as you can, then bring knee back toward nose.
* To make it easier, bring right knee to floor before straightening leg.
* Do 7 to 10 reps; go directly to Slow Kick.
3. Slow Kick
Strengthens: Glutes, Chest, Shoulders; Stretches Hamstrings
* Lower right foot and walk hands back, rolling up to standing position.
* Lift right leg, knee bent 90 degrees; bend elbows 45 degrees, palms down (not shown).
* Slowly kick forward with right foot, leading with the heel; at the same time, slowly push palms forward.
* Lower and repeat.
* Do 7 to 10 reps.
* To make it easier, keep standing leg slightly bent and hands on hips.
* Repeat entire series on opposite leg.
Strengthens: Legs, Glutes, Core; Stretches Back
* Stand with feet 3 to 4 feet apart.
* Turn left foot out 90 degrees, pointing to left side, and pivot right foot toward left.
* Bend left knee 90 degrees, knee aligned with ankle; turn hips to face over left thigh.
* Place hands on hips (easier) or raise both arms overhead, palms facing each other (more challenging).
* Hold for 7 to 10 breaths. Go directly to Tuck and Extend.
2. Tuck and Extend
Strengthens: Arms, Chest, Glutes; Stretches Hips
* From Warrior 1, sweep arms down to touch floor on either side of left foot.
* Step both feet back behind you.
* Inhale, then exhale as you lift right foot off the floor and sweep knee under body (not shown).
* Straighten right leg behind you, lifting it as high as you can, then bring knee back toward nose.
* To make it easier, bring right knee to floor before straightening leg.
* Do 7 to 10 reps; go directly to Slow Kick.
3. Slow Kick
Strengthens: Glutes, Chest, Shoulders; Stretches Hamstrings
* Lower right foot and walk hands back, rolling up to standing position.
* Lift right leg, knee bent 90 degrees; bend elbows 45 degrees, palms down (not shown).
* Slowly kick forward with right foot, leading with the heel; at the same time, slowly push palms forward.
* Lower and repeat.
* Do 7 to 10 reps.
* To make it easier, keep standing leg slightly bent and hands on hips.
* Repeat entire series on opposite leg.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Style and Focus News Bites
** Economy: Jobless Claims Surge Above 400,000. The number of newly laid off people filing claims for unemployment benefits bolted past 400,000 last week as companies trimmed their workforces to cope with a slowing economy. The Labor Department reported Thursday that the number of new applications filed for these benefits rose by a seasonally adjusted 34,000 to 406,000 for the week ending July 19. The snapshot of layoffs was worse than economists were forecasting. They were expecting claims to rise to 375,000 according to economists surveyed by Thomson/IFR. (USA Today) - Economy
** Beauty: Aveda Reformulates Make-up Line With Natural Pigments. Leading natural cosmetics provider Aveda has updated and expanded its Uruku make-up collection, opting for natural annatto pigment instead of synthetics. The range now includes a new bronzer, an updated and reformulated lip pigment line, together with a new eye accent and cheek/lip crème, all benefitting from the use of the annatto, which is a powdered pigment derived from urukum and mica, and is a light reflecting mineral. Aveda says that this pigment delivers lasting color for all skin types, with the added benefit of being naturally derived, reducing the risk of toxicity and other drawbacks associated with synthetic pigments. (Cosmetic Design) - Beauty
** Publishing: NYT to Raise Newsstand Price to $1.50. The New York Times Co. will increase the Monday-Saturday newsstand cost of its flagship paper by 25 cents to $1.50. Times CEO Janet Robinson said the price increase for The New York Times will take effect Aug. 18. The last increase came a year ago. The company recently announced a 4.5 percent increase in home delivery prices for the paper that takes effect this month, the second bump in a year. (The Associated Press) - Publishing
** Business: Amazon Sales Brisk Despite U.S. Economy. Amazon.com Inc. reporting Wednesday that its second-quarter profit more than doubled and surpassed analyst expectations. The Internet retailer also raised full-year revenue projections. Sales were strong in several sections of Amazon's massive marketplace. (Los Angeles Times)
** Fashion: Gucci Loses Out to Vuitton as Brand Starts to Fade. "Gucci may be squandering its high-end credentials for more mainstream growth", says Rita Clifton, chairman of London-based Interbrand consulting company. "There's a real danger zone at Gucci at this moment," Clifton said. "It's easy in these high-pressure times to drive growth by keeping your foot on the accelerator, but they've got to make sure they keep reinvesting in top-end luxury." "With the slowdown in US consumption, Gucci's flaws are beginning to show", says Washington Post fashion critic Robin Givhan, adding that the label has "lost its personality". Gucci's first-quarter sales growth slowed to 2.5 percent from 11 percent in the fourth quarter.
"Gucci has disappointed the market and LVMH has surprised," said Scilla Huang Sun, who runs a luxury fund for Julius Baer Holding AG in Zurich. Julius Baer cut its stake in PPR by 25 percent this year, while buying LVMH, the world's biggest luxury-goods maker.
Gucci accounts for 36 percent of PPR's operating profit and 11 percent of sales. A recent effort by Gucci to design a lower-priced handbag to compete with Vuitton's Neverfull tote also gave a down-market image to the brand, critics said. Canvas GG Joy purses and bags, introduced last year, are emblazoned with printed GG logos and cost about 350 euros for a small doctor-bag model. (China Daily) - Fashion
** Beauty: Aveda Reformulates Make-up Line With Natural Pigments. Leading natural cosmetics provider Aveda has updated and expanded its Uruku make-up collection, opting for natural annatto pigment instead of synthetics. The range now includes a new bronzer, an updated and reformulated lip pigment line, together with a new eye accent and cheek/lip crème, all benefitting from the use of the annatto, which is a powdered pigment derived from urukum and mica, and is a light reflecting mineral. Aveda says that this pigment delivers lasting color for all skin types, with the added benefit of being naturally derived, reducing the risk of toxicity and other drawbacks associated with synthetic pigments. (Cosmetic Design) - Beauty
** Publishing: NYT to Raise Newsstand Price to $1.50. The New York Times Co. will increase the Monday-Saturday newsstand cost of its flagship paper by 25 cents to $1.50. Times CEO Janet Robinson said the price increase for The New York Times will take effect Aug. 18. The last increase came a year ago. The company recently announced a 4.5 percent increase in home delivery prices for the paper that takes effect this month, the second bump in a year. (The Associated Press) - Publishing
** Business: Amazon Sales Brisk Despite U.S. Economy. Amazon.com Inc. reporting Wednesday that its second-quarter profit more than doubled and surpassed analyst expectations. The Internet retailer also raised full-year revenue projections. Sales were strong in several sections of Amazon's massive marketplace. (Los Angeles Times)
** Fashion: Gucci Loses Out to Vuitton as Brand Starts to Fade. "Gucci may be squandering its high-end credentials for more mainstream growth", says Rita Clifton, chairman of London-based Interbrand consulting company. "There's a real danger zone at Gucci at this moment," Clifton said. "It's easy in these high-pressure times to drive growth by keeping your foot on the accelerator, but they've got to make sure they keep reinvesting in top-end luxury." "With the slowdown in US consumption, Gucci's flaws are beginning to show", says Washington Post fashion critic Robin Givhan, adding that the label has "lost its personality". Gucci's first-quarter sales growth slowed to 2.5 percent from 11 percent in the fourth quarter.
"Gucci has disappointed the market and LVMH has surprised," said Scilla Huang Sun, who runs a luxury fund for Julius Baer Holding AG in Zurich. Julius Baer cut its stake in PPR by 25 percent this year, while buying LVMH, the world's biggest luxury-goods maker.
Gucci accounts for 36 percent of PPR's operating profit and 11 percent of sales. A recent effort by Gucci to design a lower-priced handbag to compete with Vuitton's Neverfull tote also gave a down-market image to the brand, critics said. Canvas GG Joy purses and bags, introduced last year, are emblazoned with printed GG logos and cost about 350 euros for a small doctor-bag model. (China Daily) - Fashion
Comic Books Come to Life at the Comic-Con and with a little help from Barbie
Written by Style and Focus Lifestyle PR
Can't make it to the Comic-Con '08 which started yesterday and runs all the way until Sunday the 27th in San Diego, CA. Seeing as registration is closed, you can at least watch it on the G4 channel:
Thursday, July 24th Day 1 and Friday, July 25th Day 2
Both days from 7:00pm - 10:00pm EST (check local listings for time)
You can get the overview of the annual event, the latest comic books, TV shows, movies and more.
Not enough to quench your superhero obsession you can get ready for the Barbie DC Comic collection all are available at Toy "R" Us. These are collector edition dolls. Now, if only Mattel could just create the Barbie Marvel Comic collection with the Fantastic Four's Invisible Woman, Spider-man's Mary Jane Watson and Black Cat and X-Men's Storm, Jean Grey, Rogue and Jubilee. It'll make a comic book girl's dream doll collection.
First two soon to be available are Batgirl Barbie and Supergirl Barbie.
Batgirl Barbie
Barbra Gordon by day and crimefighter Batgirl by night. Known to fight along side Batman (Bruce Wayne), original Robin/Nightwing (Richard 'Dick' Grayson) and 3rd Robin (Tim Drake) keeping Gotham City safe. Batgirl Barbie is decked out in her trademark sleek black batsuit, bat mask, utility belt, yellow-gold cape and gloves. Available August 19th, priced at $39.99.
Supergirl Barbie
Soaring through the sky as Supergirl, protecting Smallville, Metropolis and the world. But as Kara Kent she's cousin to "Daily Planet" journalist, Clark Kent (Superman). The Supergirl Barbie is dressed in her uniform of cropped t-shirt with the glittery logo, red cape, blue skirt, yellow belt and red boots. Available August 15th, priced at $34.99.
Black Canary Barbie
Black Canary sometimes referred to as the "Blonde Bombshell" is known for her martial-arts skills and her "Canary Cry" – a high powered, sonic scream with the ability to shatter objects and to incapacitate people usually villains. The Gotham City heroine's alter ego Dinah Drake is a florist by day.
Black Canary Barbie is dressed in her signature fishnet stockings, black patent jacket, gloves and boots. Available Sept. 15th, priced at $39.99.
Wonder Woman Barbie
As one of the original founders of the Justice League, Wonder Woman (also known as Princess Diana or Diana Prince) has vast knowledge as well as vast skills to assist her in battles to protect the world along side Batman, Superman, Green Lantern and the rest of the JL. Her signature costume includes the battle armor shield, her unbreakable silver Bracelets of Victory and the Lasso of Truth.
Wonder Woman Barbie appears in the signature body armor bodysuit and boots along with a cape also included are her weapon accessories: the lasso of truth, bracelets, belt, and golden tiara. Available Oct. 18th, priced at $39.99.
Hopefully, they will create a Lois Lane, Catwoman, Poison Ivy, and Harley Quinn Barbie's to complete the Barbie DC Comic collection.
Can't make it to the Comic-Con '08 which started yesterday and runs all the way until Sunday the 27th in San Diego, CA. Seeing as registration is closed, you can at least watch it on the G4 channel:
Thursday, July 24th Day 1 and Friday, July 25th Day 2
Both days from 7:00pm - 10:00pm EST (check local listings for time)
You can get the overview of the annual event, the latest comic books, TV shows, movies and more.
Not enough to quench your superhero obsession you can get ready for the Barbie DC Comic collection all are available at Toy "R" Us. These are collector edition dolls. Now, if only Mattel could just create the Barbie Marvel Comic collection with the Fantastic Four's Invisible Woman, Spider-man's Mary Jane Watson and Black Cat and X-Men's Storm, Jean Grey, Rogue and Jubilee. It'll make a comic book girl's dream doll collection.
First two soon to be available are Batgirl Barbie and Supergirl Barbie.
Batgirl Barbie
Barbra Gordon by day and crimefighter Batgirl by night. Known to fight along side Batman (Bruce Wayne), original Robin/Nightwing (Richard 'Dick' Grayson) and 3rd Robin (Tim Drake) keeping Gotham City safe. Batgirl Barbie is decked out in her trademark sleek black batsuit, bat mask, utility belt, yellow-gold cape and gloves. Available August 19th, priced at $39.99.
Supergirl Barbie
Soaring through the sky as Supergirl, protecting Smallville, Metropolis and the world. But as Kara Kent she's cousin to "Daily Planet" journalist, Clark Kent (Superman). The Supergirl Barbie is dressed in her uniform of cropped t-shirt with the glittery logo, red cape, blue skirt, yellow belt and red boots. Available August 15th, priced at $34.99.
Black Canary Barbie
Black Canary sometimes referred to as the "Blonde Bombshell" is known for her martial-arts skills and her "Canary Cry" – a high powered, sonic scream with the ability to shatter objects and to incapacitate people usually villains. The Gotham City heroine's alter ego Dinah Drake is a florist by day.
Black Canary Barbie is dressed in her signature fishnet stockings, black patent jacket, gloves and boots. Available Sept. 15th, priced at $39.99.
Wonder Woman Barbie
As one of the original founders of the Justice League, Wonder Woman (also known as Princess Diana or Diana Prince) has vast knowledge as well as vast skills to assist her in battles to protect the world along side Batman, Superman, Green Lantern and the rest of the JL. Her signature costume includes the battle armor shield, her unbreakable silver Bracelets of Victory and the Lasso of Truth.
Wonder Woman Barbie appears in the signature body armor bodysuit and boots along with a cape also included are her weapon accessories: the lasso of truth, bracelets, belt, and golden tiara. Available Oct. 18th, priced at $39.99.
Hopefully, they will create a Lois Lane, Catwoman, Poison Ivy, and Harley Quinn Barbie's to complete the Barbie DC Comic collection.
The Pilates, Yoga, and Tai Chi Energy-Boosting Workout, Set 2
1. Tree Pose
Strengthens: Quads, Glutes, Hamstrings; Improves Balance
* Stand with feet together, palms together in front of chest.
* Place sole of right foot on left inner thigh, as high as you are able; turn right knee out to side.
* Keep hands in front (easier) or extend arms overhead, keeping palms together (more challenging).
* Bend left knee slightly to work quads.
* Hold for 7 to 10 breaths.
* Go directly to Single Leg Circle.
2. Single Leg Circle
Strengthens: Glutes, Hamstrings, Inner Thighs; Improves Balance
* Remaining on left leg from tree pose, straighten right leg and bring it out in front of you, toes pointed toward floor.
* Drawing abs in, make 1 large circle clockwise with your right foot, keeping hips still; exhale 1 full breath to draw the circle.
* Keep hands on hips (easier) or arms extended overhead (more challenging).
* Reverse direction, drawing a counterclockwise circle.
* Do 7 to 10 reps per direction.
* Go directly to Rooster Stands on One Leg.
3. Rooster Stands on One Leg
Strengthens: Glutes, Quads, Hamstrings, Shoulders; Stretches Back
* Remaining on left leg, bring right leg in front of body, knee bent 90 degrees and thigh parallel to floor.
* Slowly bend left knee in a half squat, keeping weight over heel.
* As you squat down, bring arms down in front, then out to sides and back above head as you straighten leg.
* To make it easier, don't squat down as deeply and keep your right foot closer to floor.
* Do 7 to 10 reps.
* Repeat the entire series, starting from Tree Pose, on opposite leg.
Strengthens: Quads, Glutes, Hamstrings; Improves Balance
* Stand with feet together, palms together in front of chest.
* Place sole of right foot on left inner thigh, as high as you are able; turn right knee out to side.
* Keep hands in front (easier) or extend arms overhead, keeping palms together (more challenging).
* Bend left knee slightly to work quads.
* Hold for 7 to 10 breaths.
* Go directly to Single Leg Circle.
2. Single Leg Circle
Strengthens: Glutes, Hamstrings, Inner Thighs; Improves Balance
* Remaining on left leg from tree pose, straighten right leg and bring it out in front of you, toes pointed toward floor.
* Drawing abs in, make 1 large circle clockwise with your right foot, keeping hips still; exhale 1 full breath to draw the circle.
* Keep hands on hips (easier) or arms extended overhead (more challenging).
* Reverse direction, drawing a counterclockwise circle.
* Do 7 to 10 reps per direction.
* Go directly to Rooster Stands on One Leg.
3. Rooster Stands on One Leg
Strengthens: Glutes, Quads, Hamstrings, Shoulders; Stretches Back
* Remaining on left leg, bring right leg in front of body, knee bent 90 degrees and thigh parallel to floor.
* Slowly bend left knee in a half squat, keeping weight over heel.
* As you squat down, bring arms down in front, then out to sides and back above head as you straighten leg.
* To make it easier, don't squat down as deeply and keep your right foot closer to floor.
* Do 7 to 10 reps.
* Repeat the entire series, starting from Tree Pose, on opposite leg.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Shop It To Me.com = Fashion, Convenience and lots of Sales
Written by Style and Focus Lifestyle PR
When you think of a personal shopper what comes to mind? A luxury service used by celebrities and wealthy Jet Set. Well, no need to feel left out now you can have the service of a personal shopper all in a little e-mail thanks to Shop It To Me (shopittome.com).
Shop It To Me is a free online personal shopper where you can select from over 500 of your favorite clothing brands and retailers such as Juicy Couture, BCBG, Banana Republic, Prada, Bluefly and many more. All you have to do is sign up, select your favorite apparel and include your size and then you will receive personalized e-mails (sample e-mail below) either daily, weekly or semi-weekly on the hottest deals on your favorite items in you size. This is one of those things you wonder "why didn't I think of that?"
What more can you ask for? With more people logging in more hours at work the last thing they want to do is spend all their free time searching for deals for their favorite fashion items either on-line or in stores. They want to enjoy the free time they have and Shop It To Me give you that extra dose of shopping freedom. Plus, on each e-mail there is a fun interactive feature call 'ask a friend', it lets those who love to get their friend's opinions while shopping a way to approve or not their selections.
This fantastic site was created by Charlie Graham, who got tired of drudging through the internet searching for sales and either finding them too late or nothing in his size available. This innovative site will give consumers a new way to shop.
(Click picture for larger view)
Is Creativity the Way to Boost Sales during Recession?
by A. Brooks
Style and Focus Lifestyle PR
During hard times companies are looking towards their marketing, PR and advertising - in-house or outside agency - to provide creative ways to make an impact and attract sales more often than not with a minimized budget. Creativity will be key because it will set a business apart from all it's competitors.
This is when marketers, advertisers and publicist really start earning their paychecks and surprisingly are given more free range to be more creative and use their imaginations to promote the products, services, the company's image, etc. However, there is no magical formula but it will take creative energy, innovative ideas and follow through to implement the new marketing plan. Publicist will continue to work the "free press" to get their clients name out there including continued contact with bloggers and social networks sites. They are also sending out more human interest pieces to show that the company cares as well as the traditional news releases and media alerts. It's a great cost effective way to reach the target market.
No doubt you have probably noticed the free gas cards being offered at certain businesses, new packaging, company logo's being updated, promotional tie-ends and free GWP (gift with purchase), magazines offering low priced subscriptions, etc. all to encourage current and potential new customers to try their products or services. The goal is to stay visible to their customers.
Visibility is important to fashion boutiques, because several popular ones continue to set up celebrities in-store promotions to promote the celebrity's clothing line which would result in additional sales and "free press" with perhaps the daily newspapers, entertainment TV shows and blogs. However, visibility can work in reverse with many boutiques dropping some celebrity lines if they can not get the celebrities for an in-store promotion, case in point, with the recent removal of Lauren Conrad's line from Kitson and Victoria Beckham's clothing also from Kitson back in April.
Will injecting more creativity boost sales during recession?
Style and Focus Lifestyle PR is a publicity and marketing freelance company as well as an informative and entertaining blog, Style and Focus Lifestyle PR, that helps small businesses build brand awareness in Fashion, Beauty, Philanthropic, Lifestyle, Entertainment and more. For more information contact Style and Focus Lifestyle PR: styleandfocusfreelance@yahoo.com
The Pilates, Yoga, and Tai Chi Energy-Boosting Workout, Set 1
"Anyone with a busy or hectic schedule know that it can be very hard to find time to workout let alone get to the gym but a great little workout I found on the Fitness magazine website is the Pilates, Yoga and Tai Chi Energy-Boosting workout. I like it because I can fit into my schedule and it's a pretty effective workout. It's my no excuses workout." Style & Focus PR
By Alyssa Shaffer; Photos by Chris Fanning
Fitness Magazine
Sometimes the quietest exercises can be the most invigorating. That's the case with this energy-boosting routine, which brings together elements of yoga, Pilates, and tai chi.
"Yoga is about stability, Pilates focuses on mobility and stability, and tai chi is all about mobility," says Lawrence Biscontini, group fitness manager for the Golden Door Spa at Wyndham El Conquistador in Puerto Rico, who designed our program. "Moving from one discipline to the next circulates the energy throughout your body, so you're refreshed by the end." You'll also feel pretty darn strong -- these moves are a killer way to sculpt your arms, abs, legs, and butt, using just your body weight for resistance.
Do each circuit three times through, breathing deeply and evenly throughout the workout.
1. Camel
Strengthens: Shoulders; Stretches Front of Body
* Kneel on floor with feet behind you, legs slightly apart.
* Stretch your hips and thighs forward while reaching back, placing your hands on your lower back (easier) or heels (more challenging).
* Gaze up toward ceiling while pushing your hips forward and arching spine; hold for 7 to 10 breaths.
2. Thigh Stretch
Strengthens: Glutes, Core; Stretches Quads
* Release from Camel and return to start.
* Inhale, then exhale while leaning back from hips, this time without bending spine, so your body forms a straight line from ears to knees.
* Place hands on hips (easier) or extend arms in front at shoulder height (more challenging).
* Come back to start, then repeat. Do 7 to 10 reps.
3. Rising Lunge
Strengthens: Legs, Glutes, Hips; Stretches Back
* From thigh stretch, bring left foot in front of you, left knee bent 90 degrees.
* Lift right knee off the floor, straightening leg behind you.
* Sweep arms out as you rise; then lower arms as you sink back down.
* Do 4 reps; switch sides and repeat.
By Alyssa Shaffer; Photos by Chris Fanning
Fitness Magazine
Sometimes the quietest exercises can be the most invigorating. That's the case with this energy-boosting routine, which brings together elements of yoga, Pilates, and tai chi.
"Yoga is about stability, Pilates focuses on mobility and stability, and tai chi is all about mobility," says Lawrence Biscontini, group fitness manager for the Golden Door Spa at Wyndham El Conquistador in Puerto Rico, who designed our program. "Moving from one discipline to the next circulates the energy throughout your body, so you're refreshed by the end." You'll also feel pretty darn strong -- these moves are a killer way to sculpt your arms, abs, legs, and butt, using just your body weight for resistance.
Do each circuit three times through, breathing deeply and evenly throughout the workout.
1. Camel
Strengthens: Shoulders; Stretches Front of Body
* Kneel on floor with feet behind you, legs slightly apart.
* Stretch your hips and thighs forward while reaching back, placing your hands on your lower back (easier) or heels (more challenging).
* Gaze up toward ceiling while pushing your hips forward and arching spine; hold for 7 to 10 breaths.
2. Thigh Stretch
Strengthens: Glutes, Core; Stretches Quads
* Release from Camel and return to start.
* Inhale, then exhale while leaning back from hips, this time without bending spine, so your body forms a straight line from ears to knees.
* Place hands on hips (easier) or extend arms in front at shoulder height (more challenging).
* Come back to start, then repeat. Do 7 to 10 reps.
3. Rising Lunge
Strengthens: Legs, Glutes, Hips; Stretches Back
* From thigh stretch, bring left foot in front of you, left knee bent 90 degrees.
* Lift right knee off the floor, straightening leg behind you.
* Sweep arms out as you rise; then lower arms as you sink back down.
* Do 4 reps; switch sides and repeat.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Pamper Your HOTdog with these Little Treats
They don't call it the "'dog days of summer" for nothing with the hot weather coupled with shedding fur, your four legged family member is in need of a little pampering.
You can treat your dog to HOTdog Fruits & Passion (fruits-passion.com) shampoos, sprays and room deodorizers. These natural products will keep your dog as well as your home clean and smelling fresh. The prices range from $15 to $28.
Above picture: HOTdog Eau de toilette ($28.00 for 3.4 oz). Specially designed for a dog’s sensitive sense of smell, this light eau de toilette will leave your pet pleasantly perfumed for days.
HOTdog Purifying Deodorizer
Room deodorizer to fresh the area your dog love visiting the most.
$15.00 for 17 oz
HOTdog Discovery Kit
Includes: 2 oz. shampoo, 2 oz. Fresh & Lustrous Spray, Eau de toilette Sample and a ball.
$25.00
HOTdog Fresh and Lustrous Spray
A gentle conditioning spray used to help with brushing and detangling.
$18.00 for 7 oz
HOTdog Shampoo with Natural Extracts
Formulated with concentrated aloe vera essence, camomile flower and ivy leaf extract to cleanse, moisturize and for anti-inflammatory to keep pets skin and hair healthy.
$18.00 for 7 oz
HOTdog Gentle Shampoo for Puppies and Sensitive Skin
Formulated with lotus, bamboo and camomile extracts, it cleans and nourishes your puppy’s and adult dog’s skin while fortifying the coat.
$18.00 for 7 oz.
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