Tips & Cool Stuff

We've Moved!

2011-11-13T15:10:00.000-08:00

Hello! As of November 14, 2011, we've moved! Please visit us at out new home at SarahShah.com/blog

What Makes A Model Super?

2011-10-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

At first blush, it looks like modeling is about having a pretty face, the right figure and getting pictures taken. Modeling is really about selling something – an outfit, jewelry, shoes, makeup, fragrance, or even a brand. The best models have a way of looking, posing or walking that makes consumers connect with them and want what they have. Some models shine in print, others in video, and still others in real life on a runway.

Last week, Fashion Houston was all about runway fashion. A great runway show is a collaboration between the designer (the clothes have to look good), stylist (the whole look has to be compelling), and the model. The model is a critical element in a successful show. The successful model doesn’t just wear the clothes, she/he makes the clothes (s)he wears look beautiful, cool, sensual or fun to wear.

I loved everything some models wore and nothing that some other models wore. The models actually “make” or “break” the look with the way they wear it. The models that “made” the looks had a little bounce in their step, grace in their walk, wiggle in their hip, and twinkle in their eye that made the clothes move in a way that showed them off and made them look great to wear. These models made me want to wear the clothes….I was actually bouncing, wiggling and smiling in my seat imagining myself walking in those clothes. That’s selling it! That’s the super in supermodel.

Here are the super models that really made the clothes stand out at Fashion Houston.

Alencia Lewis, Campbell Agency, Dallas (Photo 1 - Designer: Camilla, Photographer: Patrick Garza, PMG Develops, Photo 2 - Designer: Douglas Hannant, Photographer: Patrick Garza, PMG Develops)

Katelynn Denney, Page 713 (Photo 1 - Designer: Cesar Gallindo, Photographer: Jay Marroquin, Jay Marroquin Photography, Photo 2 - Designer: Carmen Marc Valvo, Photographer: Jay Marroquin, Jay Marroquin Photography)

Mariah Chaney (Photo 1 - Designer: Roberto Rodriguez, Photographer: Nenaji Media, Photo 2 - Designer: Cesar Gallindo, Photographer: Jay Marroquin, Jay Marroquin Photography)

Lindsey Schultz, Page 713 (Photo 1 - Designer: Douglas Hannant, Photographer: Patrick Garza, PMG Develops, Photo 2 - Designer: Carmen Marc Valvo, Photographer: Michael Allendorf, Michael Allendorf Photography)

Phoenix Azul (Photo 1 - Becca Cason Thrash Collection, Photographer: Patrick Garza, PMG Develops, Photo 2 - Designer: Roberto Rodriguez, Photographer: Patrick Garza, PMG Develops)

Yuan Zhang (Photo 1 - Designer: Chloe Dao, Photographer: Patrick Garza, PMG Develops, Photo 2 - Designer: Douglas Hannant, Photographer: Patrick Garza, PMG Develops)

Inside Fashion Houston 2011

2011-09-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

Fashion Houston 2011
Wortham Center, October 10-13, 2011

NYC Fashion, NYC production, internationally known fashion designers, with one special twist…Fashion Houston shows are open to the general public! This is huge! Fashion shows in New York, Paris, Milan and Tokyo are exclusively for buyers, celebrities, stylists, media and a few special guests. Real people can’t get near them.

Fashion Houston creator Jared Lang, owner of Momentum Audi, has a passion for fashion and for his community. For the second year in a row, he’s bringing cutting-edge runway fashion shows to Houston and made them accessible to everyone. Every seat has a great view and tickets start at $31 per person!

Fashion Houston is different from other fashion weeks in another important way – you’ll see collections for THIS season. While other cities are showing Spring 2012, you’ll see styles and looks that will inspire outfits that you can wear right now. You’ll see Fall 2011 collections up close and personal from up and comers like Patrick Schwarzenegger (yes, that Schwarzenegger) and Fabiola Arias, local favs like “Project Runway,” Season #2 Winner Chloe Dao and Lifetime TV’s “The Fashion Show” Contestant Caesar Galindo, as well as international super stars like Carmen Marc Valvo and Camilla.

High-end designers are thrilled to show here because they know that Houston takes their fashion seriously. They flock to Houston because there is a huge fashion base here and we spend more on fashion in department stores, boutiques and trunk shows than any other American city. WOW!

For a full list of designers, show schedules, videos of last year’s event and tickets (starting at $31 per person), go to FashionHouston.net.

TV Lesson - Answer THE Question!

2011-09-14T06:14:00.001-07:00

The Background: The Fashion World went nuts yesterday...nuts for Missoni at Target. Target has a history of collaborating with with high-end designers to bring great design and fashion to the masses at affordable prices. Yesterday, Target launched it's biggest collection yet - a limited edition line from Missoni. Shoppers crashed Target's website and mobile website and swarmed stores like locusts in their excitement and the merchandise was gone in the blink of an eye.

Glitzy Missoni ads are still running on TV and in print, more than 40 magazines on newsstands have stories about the line, and consumers are hungry for the merchandise.

Meanwhile, Target store shelves are bare, Target's website is STILL down, The Missoni For Target merchandise is already selling on eBay for more 5 times the retail price, and every local and national news organization is covering the story.

The big question on Target shopper's mind is - WILL THERE BE MORE MERCHANDISE??? Most shoppers are disappointed, frustrated, and upset that they can't get the Missoni. Target VP of Communication Dustee Jenkins appeared on GMA this morning and had an incredible opportunity to speak directly to shoppers.

Here's what happened on TV:

The questions were: Will there be more merchandise? Did they plan properly? She could have thanked shoppers for their incredible response, acknowledged the situation directly, and provided some useful information - no, there's no more merchandise. Some shoppers will return items, so you may see some merchandise returned to stores, but we can't predict when and where that will happen. We thought we planned well - we ordered twice as much as we usually do for our designer collaborations, but we didn't anticipate THIS much demand! We're sorry if you didn't get what you want. We will use this information to plan future launches. Thank you for your patience, understanding and for turning out the way you did! This would have built trust with shoppers and helped them remain loyal to the brand despite a bad experience.

Instead, Dustee smugly patted herself on the back for running great pr campaign, flaunted the great line in front of customers that can't get it, and coyly said keep checking back to their stores to see if there's anymore. Way to slap customers in the face Dustee! Target blew the opportunity and fanned the flames of customer frustration instead of informing, appreciating and soothing customers. Bottom line, this is going to cost Target at the cash register and in customer loyalty.

Target knows how to handle this situation. Target has been doing a great job interacting with frustrated customers on Twitter and Facebook. Unfortunately, Dustee blew it in front of millions of viewers and customers. Time to give Dustee the boot (preferably the Missoni zigzag rainboot for Target).

Here's the segment so you can see for yourself...

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

When Is It Okay To Break Fashion Rules?

2011-09-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

Labor Day always brings the question…do you have to stop wearing white? The bigger question is “do traditional fashion rules still apply?” And” is it ever okay break the rules?“

From a fashion perspective, the traditional rules don't apply in fashion anymore. The rules of no white after labor day; match belts, bags and shoes; women over ___ shouldn’t wear ___ etc., were created decades ago. The world has changed since then, and so have fashion rules. Now, there's much more opportunity to wear what you like, express yourself, and only wear what's flattering, regardless of the current trends and rules of years gone by.

From an image perspective, it’s useful to look at the effect of breaking with tradition. What does that say about you and what is the impact on other people?

If you are an innovator or creative in the way you work or live, then breaking the old rules is consistent with who you are, what you do and makes sense for your image. If you are in a traditional industry or social setting where stability, predictability, and safety are important, then breaking the fashion rules would create an inconsistent message in your image.

Following or breaking the rules can help you connect with others more deeply or create disconnection. If the people you are working/meeting with are rule-breakers, breaking fashion rules will help you connect with them. They will appreciate your cutting edge approach and have a tendency to trust you more. If you follow the traditional fashion rules, you risk undermining that connection.

If they are more traditional, then breaking past fashion rules will create disconnection. They may make you wrong for breaking the rules and be distracted or put off by your disregard for tradition, and you risk loosing their respect or attention.

As always, the “right” answer depends on who you are, what you do, and who you are with.

Want To Be My Assistant At Fashion Houston?

2011-08-31T09:54:00.000-07:00

In October, I'm covering all the action at Fashion Houston! It's Oct 10-13 - four nights of runway shows by designers from Houston and around the world! It's a big job, and I need help!! And it will be even more fun for me to be able to share the experience with you! If you want to go...keep reading. If not, stop reading now!

There are 4 passes - one for each night. Who gets to go? Anyone who is/has been a model, intern, assistant for me, been a client* of Imagine or Sarah Shah, or has bought a copy of Dress Yourself Skinny by Sept 11 can apply (see below for a full description). Here’s how it works:

You’ll be my assistant for the evening and help take photographs, videos and live blog/tweet/facebook during the event. You get to see the runway shows, meet the designers in the green room, check out the VIP lounges, and even get a glimpse back stage to see what goes on behind the scenes. You might even get a picture on the red carpet!

Here’s how to apply. Create some behind the scenes commentary of your life or a recent event along with pictures (5 max) or a video (2 mins max). Submit LINKS to the pics or video along with your commentary and the following info by September 11, 2011.

Here’s the info to include with your submital:

Your Name:
Age (must be over 21):
Cell phone number:
Email address:
Your preferred date(s) October 10, 11, 12 or 13:
Confirmation that you are available to be at the Wortham Center in Houston on your preferred day from 4:30 to 10:00 pm:
State whether you are/have been a client, model, intern or assistant with us:
Your Behind-The-Scenes commentary:
LINKS to your pictures (max 5) or video (max 2 mins): (LINKS only, my email box is too small for full videos or big pictures, so upload them to your face book page, flicker, youtube...whatever and send me the links)

To apply, submit the required materials and info by facebook to www.facebook.com/DressYourselfSkinny or by email to Sarah@SarahShah.com. All submittals must be received by 9:00 pm on September 11, 2001. Incomplete submittals will not be considered.

P.S. - You are a client, model, assistant or intern of Imagine/Sarah Shah if you have been my private client for image, tv, or other areas; hired me to speak to your group; attended a workshop; purchased the book Dress Yourself Skinny, been a model in my tv segments or fashion shows, or have been my intern or assistant in any of those activities.

Thanks you so much for applying!! I'll contact the winners and post their names on the Dress Yourself Skinny facebook page by September 30.

La Prairie Field Test (Part 6 -Week 13)

2011-08-20T15:08:00.000-07:00

It's Week 18 of the La Prairie Field Test. I've used up the last of the White Caviar face serum and cream since the last post. The White Caviar serum lasted through week 9 and the cream lasted through Week 13. Since then, I've continued to use sunscreen to keep new spots from forming along with my usual skincare. In the meantime, friends, family and clients have continued to comment on how good my skin looks and how much more even it has become.

La Prairie has generously sent another batch of White Caviar face serum and cream…so the field test continues! I used it last night...and man, my face is super smooth again. How do you do that La Prairie? I’ll be back with an update in a couple weeks.

If you've missed any of the sesies, here are links to the rest of the posts in the La Prairie Field Test

Part I - The Products
Part II - The Canvas
Part III – First Week of The Test
Part IV – Day 8 Update
Part V – Day 38 Update
Part VI - Week 13

Bad Clothes Made Good

2011-08-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

You've heard it a million times - a tailor is a critical element of a great wardrobe. Here are some examples of "bad clothes" that were given new love and life by a tailor.

"Pleather" Pants

These pleather pants were cute and fit well, but they were way too hot to wear in Houston. We collaborated with our tailor to turned them in to super hot shorts.

Our tailor cut off the pant legs, added a triangle gusset of extra fabric on the outside of each leg so they had a fashionable shape and made a cuff at the hem. Now the shorts are flattering and fit perfectly. Perfect to keep her cool in the summer heat.

Way Too Big Denim

This jacket and shorts were WAYYYY to big.

The jacket got a major overhaul - the front pockets were moved up and the hem was shortened, vertical pleats were added to the front and back to take in the volume in the sides, the sleves were made smaller and three pleats were added to shorten the sleeve to 3/4 length. The shorts just got minor adjustments - they were shortened and cuffs added to the hem. These have become regular basics in her wardrobe that she wears all the time.

Over-Sized Shirt

The red and white striped shirt is way to big and has some unflattering elements...but it has lots of potential.

Our tailor removed the collar and changed the neckline to a v-neck, took in the sides, shortened the sleeves to 3/4 length, and shortened the shirt to a more flattering length.

How about you? What are your ideas for changing or transforming things from your closet? Post or link to your projects so we can appreciate what you've done.

If you liked this post, you might like this one too:

Tips for finding and working with your tailor

Spa Sirens (TM), Calling Out The Cool And The Current In The World Of Resorts And Spas

2011-08-16T11:55:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be a part of The Spa Sirens! We are a collaboration of three experts in beauty, fashion and travel who travel the spa and resort world to seek out and spread the word about the latest in spa and resort experiences. The Sirens are Renae Virata (travel and fashion, WeareverTheWeather.com), Sarah Shah (fashion and image, SarahShah.com), and Stacey Adair (beauty, RadiantYouMagazine.com). We'll calling out the cool and the current in spas and resorts - treatments, amenities and locations that are unique, new, effective or interesting.

We're kicking off on August 17, 2011 at the Spa Waterway in The Woodlands. If you'd like to come along, we'll be chronicling our positive experiences on twitter (hashtag #spasirens), facebook and in each of our blogs. You're invited to share your experiences, favorite treatments/locations and ask any questions along the way.

Here's more about each of the Sirens and where to find us online:

Renae Virata, Blogger and Head Travelista
A Travelista at heart, Renae is the founder of the travel and fashion website WeareverTheWeather.com. She loves searching out fun destinations and shopping for travel attire and products. When she’s not collecting stamps in her passport, she’s taking up a new outdoor sport, tinkering with her sewing machine or reading a trashy novel on the beach.
Phone: (281) 773-2526, e-Mail: Renae@WeareverTheWeather.com
Online Presence:
· Website & Blog www.WeareverTheWeather.com (10,000+ unique online visits per month)
· Twitter: www.twitter.com/WTWBlog
· Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/WeareverTheWeather

Stacey Adair, Beauty Insider and Creator of Radiant You Magazine
Stacey is always on the search for new and innovative beauty products and medi-spa treatments. A beauty junkie since she could hold a tube of lip gloss, she loves to seek out new beauty finds around the world. She’s also the founder of Radiant You Magazine.
Phone: (832) 725-4252, e-Mail: Editor@RadiantYouMagazine.com
Online Presence:
· Spa and Beauty Magazine Website & Blog: www.RadiantYouMagazine.com
· Twitter: www.twitter.com/RadiantYouMag
· Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RadiantYouMagazine

Sarah Shah, Image & TV Expert, Speaker and Author
Sarah delivers entertaining, real and revolutionary image wisdom in the closet and on TV. She is always on the hunt for new beauty treatments and fashion items to share.
Phone: (617) 501-8055, e-Mail: Sarah@SarahShah.com
Online & Media Presence
· National & Regional TV (40+ appearances)
· Website & Blog: www.sarahshah.com (Klout Score: 50+)
· Twitter: www.twitter.com/sarahshah (2400+followers)
· Facebook: www.facebook.com/sarah.shah1 and www.facebook.com/dressyourselfskinny (1000+ visitors per month)
· YouTube: www.YouTube.com/SarahShahTV (5000+ views)

How To Get Taylor Swift Curls

2011-07-14T20:33:00.001-07:00

Our intern Julia created a way to style her super curly hair like Taylor Swift. Here she is sharing her tips in her very first youtube video! Until now, how-to videos for this hairstyle have been made for straight hair…this is the first one that works for curly hair.

If you want more info, detailed descriptions of each step are below the video. If you try these tips, please post your pics…we want to see the styles you created too!

1. Before you get started with this hair style, your hair needs to be completely dry. Brush wet hair to get all the knots out. Twist your hair in a ShamWow-type towel for 5 to 10 minutes to absorb most of the water.

2. Work about a dime-size bit of heat protectant serum or anti-breakage spray throughout your hair. Julia likes Organix Coconut Milk Anti-Breakage Serum.

3. Seperate hair into two sections and use a hair dryer and round brush to dry your hair. Angle the blow dryer down in the direction you brush your hair to minimize frizz. The round brush she used in the video is made by Solano and it has a gel grip handle that's easy and comfy to hold.

4. Let hair sit for at least 10 minutes before curling to make sure your hair is completely dry.

5. Separate hair into layers. Start with the bottom layer. Spray on some heat protectant (Julia likes Chi Shine Infusion) to help protect hair, control frizz and add shine.

6. Divide hair into 1-inch sections. Wrap hair around a curling iron or wand in a spiral, making sure all the pieces of hair touch the wand. Hold hair on the curling wand for about 10-15 seconds. If you are using a wand, it’s helpful to have a heat resistant glove.

7. After about 10-15 seconds of curling, angle the tip of the curling wand/iron downwards and slowly glide the wand up and out of the curl. The curl will be pretty tight but don't worry, it will loosen up over time. Keep working the wand through each section and layer of your hair.

8. When you reach the top layer of hair, start the curls lower on your head to avoid the Shirley Temple Afro look.

9. Spray all the curls with hairspray. Julia used Alba Botanica hairspray. She likes it because it is non-aerosol, natural and has a medium hold for natural, touchable hair.

Julia is entering her senior year in high school. She took on this internship to learn more about the things she loves – business, communication, marketing, public relations and fashion. Thanks Julia, you're doing a great job!!

Thank you Creative Media Marketing for the Solano Power brush and Alba Botanicals hairspray samples!

Client Testimonial - Studio NiaMoves Gets On TV...A Lot!

2011-06-30T06:06:00.000-07:00

“I had contacted the press at least 30 times over 3 years with no results. Then I worked with Sarah. She taught me what producers really want and how to get my business on TV. Since then, we have been on TV 14 times and have been featured in more than 5 articles. Wahoo! I shifted my approach with the media from promoting the studio to offering interesting information about hot topics that were related to offerings at the studio. We are now regularly contacted by news organizations looking for stories. Sarah Shah ROCKS!” – Kristie Bryant, Owner and Nia Teacher, Studio NiaMoves.

Studio NiaMoves is a fun fitness studio in the Houston Heights with an eclectic offering of classes. When you walk into a class at NiaMoves, you will find all types of people, mostly women, different sizes, shapes, and fitness levels. We love to make moving your body a pleasurable experience. Come check us out! The July Special for Houston-area clients who are new to the studio is two weeks of free classes good for Nia, Yoga, Pilates and Zumba. For more info, go to www.NiaMoves.com

La Prairie Field Test - Cellular Power Infusion and White Caviar ( Part V - Day 38 Update)

2011-06-27T05:49:00.000-07:00

It’s Week 6 of the La Prairie field test. As of June 24, I’ve been using Cellular Power Infusion (CPI) and the White Caviar System consistently morning and night for 38 days. I've missed about one application a week in weeks 2-6.

CPI lasted to day 35 (amazing since the two vials were only expected to last 20 days) and the sample of White Caviar eye serum lasted 37 days. The White Caviar face serum and cream live on, so I’ll be using them until they’re gone. Here are updated pictures and a video so you can see the progress since the beginning. The results show up better in the video than in the pics.

Day 1 (left) Day 38 (right)

Right Side Of Face: Day 8 (left), Day 38 (right)

Left Side Of Face: Day 8 (left), Day 38 ( right)

The thinking lines in my forehead have smoothed out a lot and my face is much softer and soother. The jowl skin might be firmer. The under eye area is significantly lighter.

The skintone on the right side of my face has evened out significantly! There are still some age spots/scars on the upper cheek, but even they are lighter and closer to my base skintone. I don’t use concealer on that side of my face at all anymore (except under my eye).

The left side of my face started out with much more sun damage and more dark spots. Some areas of the left side of my face have evened out and many age spots and scars are left. It usually takes 8 weeks to see significant skin evening…so I’ll keep going with the White Caviar and keep my fingers crossed.

Here is a video with close-ups of the results so far. I’m speaking slower than usual so the camera can keep up!

Here are links to the rest of the series:

Part I - The Products
Part II - The Canvas
Part III – First Week of The Test
Part IV – Day 8 Update
Part VI - Week 13

Client Testimonial - Steve's Trip To "Oprah's House" With BFF Gail!

2011-06-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

My client Steve Mattus got invited to share his experience on the Gail King Show! Here's his story.

"I got booked for my first TV Appearance - an interview with Gayle King (OWN) celebrating the finale of The Oprah Winfrey Show - and it was LIVE! It was completely surreal to walk the hallways and sit in the green room at Harpo Studios where all the celebrities waited to go on Oprah's show. I am deeply grateful to have the honor to share my message on such a platform!"

"Sarah helped me with my image and prepared me for everything about TV. I looked great, I was authentic, and my image was consistent with my message. She also taught me everything I never knew I needed to know about TV – how to give the producers what they needed, how to work with the host and other guests, how to prepare, where to look, how to sit, what to bring, and how to say what I had to say.

"I only had 2 days notice, but when I got in front of the camera, I was ready - extremely well prepared, calm, totally authentic, confident, powerfully articulate and...bottom line...I nailed it! Viewers are still reaching out to me with their stories and questions. One person even said my appearance on the show helped her make a major shift in her thinking - ultimately changing her life for the better.

"Now that I know what I didn’t know about TV, if I have gone on TV without Sarah, it would have been embarrassing at worst, and marginal at best. Instead, I feel completely ecstatic about it, absolutely fulfilled, and actually, really proud of myself for pulling it off. Thank you Sarah!"

Steve Mattus is a Speaker and Authenticity Specialist. Everything he does is to inspire people to think different, so they can be who they want, do what they want and get what they want. For more about Steve, go to ActualInfinity.com.

Field Test - La Prairie Cellular Power Infusion and White Caviar (Part IV - Day 8 Update)

2011-05-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

I’ve been using La Prairie’s Cellular Power Infusion and the White Caviar System consistently morning and night for 7 days so far. Here are updated pictures so you can see the progress.

Day 1 (left) Day 8 (right)

Day 8 - Right side of face, Day 8 - Left side of face

Day 1 (Left), Day 8 (Right)

It’s already making a difference. My face is softer, smoother, the “thinking” lines in my forehead and brow are softening, the under-eye darkness is lighter, and my skin-tone is more even.

On Day 6, I realized that I consistently missed applying the products to the apples of my cheeks...I could tell because the skin-tone on rest of my cheeks was evening out, but the apples were still spotty. That morning I changed the way I applied the products to I get even application across my whole face. I also got very consistent about applying sunscreen every morning to minimize creating any new dark spots.

At the beginning of this test, I used concealer under my eyes, under my nose, on the spots on my cheeks and around the sides of my mouth. Now, I don’t need concealer anywhere on the right side of my face (only under the eye)!

Here is a little video with the results and what I’ve learned so far.

My dream is to be able to skip concealer AND foundation all together. I’m definitely headed in that direction. Will check back in another week with the next update!

Additional updates:
Day 10: the gentle sloughing ended today. My face is still soft, smooth and dewy. I'm not seeing a significant daily lightening of the dark spots as I had up to this point. I guess the spots that are left are deeper in the skin and will take more time to fade.
Day 12: The first vial of Cellular Power Infusion lasted until today. The instructions estimate it will last 7-10 days, but it lasted 12 days.

Here are links to the rest of the series:

Part I - The Products
Part II - The Canvas
Part III – First Week of The Test
Part V – Day 38 Update
Part VI - Week 13

Thank you Kevin Hong for shooting my homemade video!

Tie One On

2011-05-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, women can wear ties too! Here's a cool way for women (and men) to wear a tie. Flip it "ascot style" and secure it with a tie tack/pin or broach.

Here's how Jennifer Dean (President & CEO of Dean's Professional Services) wore it today when she spoke to BPW's monthly networking meeting. She paired the tie with a matching button-down shirt and fitted feminine linnen suit...so chic! Thanks for the creative idea Jennifer! (P.S. Jennifer mentioned that someday she might start a company offering ties and french cuff shirts for women).

For other creative ways to wear a tie, check out this video from Rebecca Spera with Mirror/Mirror.

if you liked this post,you might also like A Professional Twist On A Strapless Dress.

Field Test - La Prairie Cellular Power Infusion and White Caviar (Part III - Test Day 1)

2011-05-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

This is Part III Of The Field Test Series.

Day 1 of my field test is here! I opened up all the packages and gave the products a try. They look, feel and smell so luxurious! Here is a video of my first experience of the products. I’ll be using them morning and night for the next 30 days. I’ll check back in a week with an update on the progress to see if/how it’s all working.

Update (May 19): I didn't expect to see any results yet, but I'm already noticing a change, so here's an update.

Day 1 (May 18): after the second application in the evening, my skin already felt softer.
Day 2 (May 19): a couple hours after the evening application, I noticed a very thin layer of skin began sloughing off when I rubbed the skin on my face. There is no discomfort, redness, or freaky face...just softer, smoother skin.
Day 5 (May 22): Husband says, "Your face is lighter." Translation: "The scars are lighter and your skin-tone is more even." :D I've noticed that the surface scars around my mouth and lower cheeks are getting lighter.
Day 6 (May 23): I realized that I consistently miss applying the products to the apples of my cheeks...I can tell because the skin-tone rest of my cheeks is evening out. This morning I changed the way I apply the products to I get even application across my whole face. I'm stunned by how well this stuff is working! I never expected to see results this fast and can't wait to take pics on Wednesday for show you the progress.

Here are links to the rest of the series

Here are links to the rest of the series:
Part I - The Products
Part II - The Canvas
Part IV – Day 8 Update
Part V – Day 38 Update
Part VI - Week 13

Field Test - La Prairie Cellular Power Infusion and White Caviar (Part II - The Canvas)

2011-05-17T10:30:00.000-07:00

This is Part II in the Field Test series, trying out La Prairie's Cellular Power Infusion and White Caviar. Links to the other parts of the series are at the bottom of this post.

Here is my face at the beginning of the field test – the baseline"BEFORE" pictures (5/17/11). This goes without saying...but just for the record, the pictures haven't been touched, retouched, photoshopped..etc. This is me in my raw, natural state.

What do I like about my face? Hmmm, I haven't asked that question in a while. I like
· Base color of my skin,
· Soft, healthy lips and
· Pudgy little nose.

What do I wish were different?
· More even skin tone – I want to erase the scarring and hyper-pigmentation on my face (especially on cheeks, upper lip, chin and temples) and lighten my under-eye area.
· Reduce fine lines and wrinkles – I want to unfurrow my brow, smooth the under eye area, and bring back the glow to the skin all over my face.

The products arrive today...I can’t wait to get started!

Here are links to the rest of the series:

Part I - The Products
Part II - The Canvas
Part III – First Week of The Test
Part IV – Day 8 Update
Part V – Day 38 Update
Part VI - Week 13

Field Test - La Prairie Cellular Power Infusion and White Caviar (Part 1 - The Products)

2011-05-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

There are lots of ways to fight the signs of aging. Medical spa treatments use lasers, peels, and medicines to remove dark spots and wrinkles. These treatments can be expensive ($250-$500+ per office visit); involve down time (time for the skin on your face to recover from the treatment); some ingredients, such as hydroquinone, used in the treatments are harsh or have scary side effects; and often a series of treatments is needed to get the desired results.

I’ve been on the hunt for home treatments that provide professional results. Almost every cosmetic line in boutiques, department stores, and drug stores claims to have products that reduce wrinkles and fade dark spots. Most over-the-counter home treatments promise significant results, but often don’t deliver. In my experience, they work best for preventative maintenance, but don’t significantly transform or restore the skin.

These are the best I've found so far in my quest, and reKinerase PhotoFacials Sun Damage Reversal System does a good job reducing wrinkles and fine lines and restoring glowing skin. Mary Kay’s Timewise Even Complexion Essence does a good job lightening age spots without harsh ingredients. Note, dark spots are tricky and hard to fade because they begin deep in the skin layers. Fading them takes time (about 8 weeks) and takes committed daily application.

The “word on the street” is that the most effective over the counter treatments for wrinkles and age spots come from La Prairie. La Prairie Cellular Power Infusion reverses fine lines and wrinkles and White Caviar fades dark spots. Yeow! They are pricey!! But if they work, the price of a full treatment is about the same as one office visit for a medispa treatment, so it may be worth the price tag. That's what I plan to find out.

La Prairie has generously offered samples of these two treatments for me to try. So, I’ll be testing them out to see how they work and posting before and after pictures along the way, so you can come along for the ride. My field test begins next week (May 18).

Here’s what I’ll be using:

La Prairie Cellular Power Infusion

La Prairie White Caviar (Illuminating Serum, Illuminating Cream, and Illuminating Eye Serum)

I’d love to hear if you’ve used them and about your experiences with them and other anti-aging products you’ve tried.

Here are links to the rest of the series:

Part I - The Products
Part II - The Canvas
Part III – First Week of The Test
Part IV – Day 8 Update
Part V – Day 38 Update
Part VI - Week 13

Decoding The Dress - What Kate Middleton's Dress "Says"

2011-05-14T08:22:00.000-07:00

Every outfit we wear evokes an emotional reaction and conveys a message that sets the tone for our communication and actions.

Catherine Middleton’s wedding dress is more than a pretty gown to get married in. The wedding is a union and beginning for the individuals and also the formal start of their official royal positions. This wedding dress sets the tone for The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s royal roles and future rein.

The underlying message of any outfit can be "decoded" by analyzing the elements - style, color, and fabric.

Style - The dress is modest, reserved, elegant, and retro in style. It reflects the fashion of the 1940s - 1950s, and also speaks to the values of that time. This also happens to be the period of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding. It’s the counter to Princess Diana’s elaborate, showy, complicated gown of the 1980s.

Catherine’s dress showed respect for tradition. Catherine’s veil covered her face and reinforced the traditional message. The whole look signaled the couple’s embrace of a simpler time, a time when royalty behaved like the Queen - regally, honorably and respectfully in public. It says we are not going to continue the public display of dirty laundry of Charles, Diana, Camilla and Sarah Ferguson.

Color – Catherine chose the color ivory for her dress. Ivory is classic, aged, soft and warm. It doesn’t scream for attention the way white does. William and Catherine plan to live outside the spotlight. At 28, Catherine is older than past royal brides and has had more time to come to terms with the expectations and restrictions of her new role. Ivory expresses Catherine’s maturity, respect for tradition, and preference to be in the background.

Fabric – The fabrics used in the wedding gown were classic wedding fabrics – silk satin, French and English lace, and silk tulle. The intricate lace veil was hand-crafted at London’s Royal School of Needlework and much of the lace on the gown was made in Derbyshire. The fabrics reinforce the traditional message and also demonstrate a respect and appreciation for traditional English crafts.

Every element of the wedding look reinforces the message of traditional, reserved royalty. Catherine Middleton’s wedding dress says “I respect tradition, my country, and my royal duties.”

If you liked this post, you might like tese too. For more outfits decoded, click these links.

Michelle Obama – Decoding The Inauguration Look
Michelle Obama – It’s Not Really About The Shorts
Jennifer Lopez – How Image Gets In The Way
What Is Ines Sainz Asking For?

For info about decoding color, click here.

The Evolution Of Mineral Foundation

2011-05-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

Mineral foundations have become a staple in many women’s makeup bags.
They love this new generation of foundations because the makeup is lightweight, provides good coverage for spots and other imperfections, and is all natural. The down side – many mineral makeups are messy powders that have to be custom color blended for every application.

Advanced Mineral Makeup’s new liquid mineral makeup is the best of both worlds. It’s super lightweight, looks very natural – like your skin, but better, and is easily applied with fingers or a foundation brush. The best thing? The shades match real women’s skin tones (many foundation companies are still using a warm/neutral/cool system that makes foundation matching a real challenge). This foundation comes in 7 easy-to-match shades ranging from fair to medium…think Nicole Kidman to Angela Bassett. Fingers crossed that they will add darker shades so everyone can wear it.

Here are a few more high lights:
· The makeup is all pigment, so a little goes a long. Apply over your moisturizer before it dries so the foundation goes on and blends smoothly.
· It won’t settle in creases and it contains antioxidants, botanicals and anti-aging ingredients, so it gives you a more youthful appearance.
· Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory
· Contains no perfumes, FD&C dyes, binders, talc, or parabens
· Oil-free and non-comedogenic

Thank you so much Stacey Adair for introducing me to the makeup and sending the sample to try! I fell in love with it and it’s become my secret for looking good on “no makeup” days.

In Houston, Advanced Mineral Makeup’s liquid foundation is available at Soteria Skin and Spiegel Spa. For more info about the makeup, visit www.AdvancedMineralMakeup.com or contact Stacey Adair at www.SkinWisePlus.com.

Professional Twist On A Strapless Dress

2011-05-11T11:33:00.000-07:00

Runways and stores are full of strapless dress this season. Lots of women are hesitant to wear them for fear of falling out or appearing unprofessional. Here's an all-business twist to solve both challenges...Joy Sewing (Fashion and Beauty Editor at the Houston Chronicle) was spotted this morning wearing her brilliant combination of white button-down blouse under a tailored strapless dress.

She couldn't be more chic and professional. This combination is so going in my arsenal of creative fashion fixes! Thanks Joy, for a great idea!

Nail Shellac

2011-04-27T06:37:00.000-07:00

Nail Shellac, is the latest nail process to hit salons - a cross between nail polish and acrylic tips – that’s reported to last up to 14 days. My networking buddy Nikki gave it a try and reviewed the process for us. Here’s her report.

The process began with a regular manicure and then the Shellac-ing began. The application process is similar to regular polish, but you dry your nails under UV light for about 1 ½ minutes after each coat of Shellac is applied. The UV light cures and hardens the Shellac, otherwise it will become soft and sticky after about 3 days. Four coats are applied – a clear base coat, 2 coats of colored Shellac and a top clear coat. The manicurist said the Shellac dries so completely under the UV light that you could Shellas your toes and then lace up your sneakers and go jogging immediately after the process.

Shellac isn't "bullet-proof" and how well you take care of your nails determines how long it lasts. As with acrylic tips or regular nail polish, the rate of your nail growth is going to affect how long the beauty of the Shellac-ing lasts.

Nikki was pleased with how long the Shellac lasted - it looked good for over a week. She typed a lot, washed her hands quite a bit, and washed a few dishes in hot water and a little bleach and the Shellac lasted through all that. After about a week, she could see the space between the polish and the cuticles was widening as her nails grew out. As of day 10, she noticed that the polish began lifting off one side of a nail. It didn’t last 14 days for Nikki.

The Shellac is removed by soaking nails in acetone for 10 minutes. The residual softened shellac may be removed/scraped off with an orange stick or cuticle tool.

All in all, Nikki liked her Shellac experience and would do it again.

Nikki’s Shellac manicure was $35 at the Sensia Studio & Japanese Day Spa. For more about Shellac or to find a Shellac manicurist in your area, visit Creative Nail Design.

For more about Nikki Johnson, The Millionaire's Assistant™ visit www.assistantnikki.com, follow her on twitter or find her on facebook .

Thanks so much for your review Nikki!!

Smorgasbord Of Anti-Ageing Treatments

2011-04-26T09:48:00.000-07:00

Lori Yeats, owner of Soteria Skin in Bellaire, TX, invited me to try her ultimate anti-aging facial. I was blown away by all the anti-aging treatments she packed into this 2 hour facial and had to share the experience. The facial is a tremendous value and unlike any that I have experienced. It’s $155, but similar services at other spas could be as much as 3 to 5 times that. Here’s everything included in the facial:

1. Microdermabrasion – This treatment removes the outer and upper layers of dead skin cells, accelerates cell turnover as well as collagen production for firmer, more glowing skin. This process can minimize fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, and acne scars. My skin was smoother and more glowy after the treatment. It can take a few days after this treatment to see the full effects.

Lori’s microdermabrasion pre-treatment really sets her apart. Most other spas prep the skin for microdermabrasion by removing facial oils with acetone (yes, the same ingredient that’s in most nailpolish removers). Soteria uses a papaya enzyme mask to get the same results with natural ingredients and without using harsh chemicals.

2. LED light therapy – LED Light Therapy has been used by NASA, the US Army and athletes for quick healing. It is also an effective, non-invasive way to help rejuvenate and repair the skin. In the ultimate anti-aging facial, the skin of the face is exposed to red and infrared light that penetrate into the dermis layer of the skin, energizing the cells, stimulating collagen and elastin, to give skin back its youthful look.

3. Microcurrent Non-Surgical Facelift – As we age, the communication between our brains and muscles decreases, causing our muscles to weaken and our faces to sag. This treatment uses micro currents to get the facial muscles and brain “talking” again. After Lori treated on side of my face, she let me look in a mirror to compare it to the untreated side. Wow, I instantly saw a difference in the tone and lift of my face! This is a great treatment to do a couple days before an important event. For lasting effects, you need a series of treatments that re-educate your muscles

4. Oxygen Therapy – Oxygen has been used to speed skin rejuvenation in medical applications for years. Soteria Skin adds oxygen therapy to their facial to increase the effect of the other skin renewal treatments. You may not recognize the direct effect of this treatment, but the results of the other treatments will be more pronounced because of this step.

Thank you Lori for a great experience! For more info about Soteria Skin or their Ultimate Anti-Aging Facial, visit www.soteriaskin.com

Test Panel - Veet Ready To Use Wax Strips

2011-03-24T09:23:00.000-07:00

At-home waxing strips are brand new from Veet. If you’re feeling shy or have a last minute event, now you can take care of that furry upper lip in the privacy of your own bathroom.

The Imagine testing panel loved the results we got with Veet’s Ready-To-Use Wax Strips for the face. They were easy to use, painless and most importantly…gently removed the hair from the upper lip area. The wax is room temperature and mounted on backing paper so there’s no hot mess to contend with. We may never go back to the salon for a lip wax!

Here’s how to use them:

· The wax strips are packaged between two backing strips. Rub the wax strip between your hands for 10 to 15 seconds to warm the wax. Peel apart the paper backings to expose two ready-to-use wax strips.
· For face, apply the wax strip to the hairy place on your face and rub the back of the strip in the direction of hair growth.
· Hold the skin taught.
· Pull back on the backing paper tab in the direction of hair-growth in a quick, swift motion.
· Remove any excess wax with the Perfect Finish Wipe.

$4.49 for 20 wax strips for the face and 4 perfect finish wipes. Now available at drug stores, grocery stores and mass merchandisers.

For more info and a coupon, visit: http://www.veet.us/veet-ready-to-use-wax-strips-for-face.php

Houston Mutt Strut & Runway Race, March 5, 2011

2011-02-08T20:12:00.000-08:00

Here is our latest project. We made this short video parody of Far East Movement's music video of their song Like A G6 to get the word out about the Houston SPCA's Mutt Strut & Runway Race. Here's a link to the original music video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4s6H4...

Our dogs Pinkie & Zee had a great time making this video for their favorite event! They are both found dogs and want to help other animals find great homes.   Pinkie & Zee will be at the Houston Mutt Strut struttin' their stuff, so say hi if you're there too.

If you like their video or just want to help with their fund raising efforts, would you sponsor them and make a donation to the Houston SPCA in their name?   Here's a link to their page http://tinyurl.com/6dguszp And remember, every dollar you donate is equal 7 dog dollars, so we appreciate any amount you decide to give!

Special thanks to Houston Freightliner and Western Star and Atlantic Aviation Services. The entire video was shot with a Canon Elph and edited with Apple iMovie. Styling with Doggles and little boy's hoodie by C9 at Target.

Thanks so much for watching!!

Welcome Home!! - Ring Ring Please Come Home!

2010-11-16T19:00:00.000-08:00

UPDATE Nov. 16, 2010: The ring came home today!!! Thank you everyone for your prayers and intentions to bring it back! It was found in a pawn shop on 11/4/2010. Thanks to the work of friends, the Houston Police Department and the District Attorney's office, it was confiscated and returned. The ring came back even cleaner and sparklier than when it left for it's "vacation."

This isn't the usual tips, cool stuff, and how-to post. Today I'm writing to ask for your help. My engagement ring was stolen from my home (in Houston) this weekend (Aug 14) and today I'm writing to ask if you would help me find it. Would you check your local pawn shops in Houston and surrounding areas and let me know if you find it?

It's unique and should be easy to identify if you spot it. Here's a picture. It's a gold ring with a 2.8 carat oval center ruby, surrounded by diamonds and ruby baguettes, size 7ish.

Wouldn't this be a great story if Twitter, facebook and social media helped find and get the ring back?!

Thank you so much for your help!

P.S. Of course there's a reward for the person who finds it and helps me get it back!

Could Wearing The Wrong Thing Cost You Your Vote?

2010-10-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

If you vote, Election Day is one of the most important days to pay attention to what you wear. You can be denied access to polling places just for wearing the wrong thing.

Electioneering ordinances prohibit campaigning within a certain distance of the entrance to a polling place (distances vary by county). This means wearing buttons, stickers, jewelry, signs, clothing or other paraphernalia supporting or opposing any candidate, political party or measure is prohibited. The prohibition even extends to candidates and measures that are not involved in that particular election such as President Obama. Displaying slogans and symbols that can be related to political movements or parties on your person such as “don’t tread on me,” the Gadsden flag and tea bags are also bootable offenses.

So, what can you wear? Any clothing without slogans or symbols are safe. If you choose to express your political opinions on your person on Election Day, be sure to bring a jacket or coat that fully covers the campaign clothing/paraphernalia to wear while voting. Alternatively, you can also wear the American flag, red, white and blue or the color of your political party (i.e red or blue).

Fashion Houston 2010

2010-10-07T14:16:00.000-07:00

This TV segment airs on Great Day Houston on October 8, 2010. Thank you Chloe Dao and Cesar Galindo for your graciousness and kind words. I so appreciate you being part of the segment with me!

Fashion runway events occur in the major fashion cities around the world – New York, Milan, Paris. Houston is the latest addition to that list. Next week, for the first time, Fashion runway shows are coming to Houston in Fashion Houston 2010! On the runway, you’ll see some of our hometown fashion superstars like Chloe Dao, Toni Whittaker and Caesar Galindo.

Until now, runway shows have been private and by invitation only. Fashion Houston 2010 is open to the public! Tickets are $35 for standing room - $250 for VIP seating. For more info about the designers, scheduling and tickets, go to www.FashionHouston.net.

So, if you’re going to the shows, what do you wear?? You may not have the top designer’s fashions in your closet, but you can take inspiration from your favorite designer and create a fantastic outfit from items right in your closet. When you use a look for inspiration, you don’t need to copy the outfit. Instead, incorporate similar elements to make your own look. Here are some example of inspiration looks the Imagine Team created with clothing and accessories from Dillard's for some of Chloe Dao and Cesar Galindo's designs.

Project Runway Season 2 Winner, Chloe Dao is known for her easy, feminine, timeless fashions with interesting details. These two Chloe Dao looks also have a whimsical element. T

Look 1: Chloe’s dress has the following components: asymmetrical neckline, an electric blue horizontal and vertical geometrical element and whimsical pink tulle ruffle. In the inspiration look, the Imagine Team chose an asymmetrical dress in a similar color pallet with a sleeve that mirrors the inspirations pink ruffle. We added a blue man’s tie worn as a belt for a whimsical blue geometric element.

Look 2: Chloe’s outfit has the following components: an easy printed boat-neck blouse and loose, pleated shorts with big pockets. In the inspiration look, we chose a chiffon boat-neck blouse in a similar color pallet. The print seems to flow across the blouse mimicking the feel of the flying birds in Chloe’s outfit. We added loose pleated shorts in a coordinating color.

Fashion Designer Cesar Galindo’s collections are crisp, clean and architectural. His pieces are usually created in solid colors.

Look 1: Cesar’s dress has the following components: a simple silhouette, an architectural skirt, knee-length hem and sparkly neckline. We chose a white cotton dress that has a similar crispness and silhouette. We added a couple crystal necklaces for a sparkly v-neckline.

Look 2: Cesar’s gown has: a strapless neckline, simple silhouette, beautiful flowing fabric, and a full-length hem. We chose a silk strapless gown in a similar color. The inspiration dress is a full-length gown with a similar neckline and flowing fabric. We used a flower hair piece to mimic the tiny hat in Cesar’s look.

Thank you Imagine Interns Bonita Harden and Kiana McFarland for assisting with the inspiration looks.

Audience give-away

4 pairs of VIP tickets to Houston Fashion Week, courtesy of Audi's Fashion Houston 2010.

What's Sarah Wearing?

Eva Varro print dress ($155, Dillard's Post Oak) and Coach platform peep-toe pumps.

Behind The Scenes - Runway To Reality

2010-09-29T07:18:00.000-07:00

Models Anicea, Amy, Molly and Stephanie made the Runway To Reality segment on Great Day Houston so much fun!! Here are some behind the scenes pics from the styling session, model practice and after the show.

On set after the Show (from back left to right Stephanie, Amy, Anicea, Molly, Sarah, Great Day Houston Host Deborah Duncan, Talbots Regional Manager Courtney Troupe)

Ruffles two ways! Final outfits at the styling session at the Talbots at Houston's Galleria.

Setting up the mannequins in the Great Day Houston studio.

The view behind the cameras.

No event is complete without the Charlies Angels shot!!

Click here to see the segment.

What Is Ines Sainz Asking For?

2010-09-15T07:21:00.000-07:00

Over the last few days, there has been a lot of discussion about Mexico’s TV Azteca sports reporter Ines Sainz treatment by the New York Jets and her on-camera wardrobe. It’s never okay to harass anyone, ever. The slippery slope and controversy here is around the message Sainz is sending with her attire.

Everybody judges everybody based on image. Your image tells people who you are, what you do, and what you want. The resulting judgment and interpretation depends on the viewers’ perspective and image definitions. In the US, professional attire is always modest, has a simple silhouette, and fits loosely. Outfits can also be fun, feminine, fashionable and casual. However, anyone who compromises the first three golden rules of modesty, simplicity and fit will never be seen as professional in this culture.

In Mexico and many Central and South American countries, women are expected to dress in a sexy way, even for business situations. Cleavage exposure, skin-tight clothing, and frilly and feminine styles are common for women in all professions, classes and ages. Examples of these cultural norms can be seen everyday on news programs on the Telemundo and Univision TV networks.

As for many women from Central and South America working in the US, Sainz’s image troubles lie in the clash of cultural definitions of professional wardrobe for women. What is Ines asking for? Her TV Azteca audience knows she’s asking to be respected as a professional sports reporter. However, the American audience interprets her outfits as flirtatious and soliciting social interaction instead of professional relations.

“She was asking for it” is never justification for inappropriate and disrespectful behavior. And, if you want to be respected as a professional, your image is a critical factor in getting what you want.

Got Oily Hair? Here's The Solution!

2010-05-21T23:29:00.000-07:00

Hair powders and hair refreshing sprays are supposed to absorb oil and stretch your hairstyle through a dirty hair day.

I’ve tried many brands. Until now, they’ve all turned my hair into a pasty, dull, smelly mess. The problem could have been with the products I tried ... or operator error.

Cake Satin Sugar Hair Refreshing Powder is a whole different story. It actually delivered as promised and extended my hairstyle through an extra dirty hair day without looking the least bit funky. The superfine, LIGHTLY vanilla-chocolate scented, powder really did absorb the excess oil and brought my fine hair back to life. WOW! How refreshing! Hair powder that really works!!

Here’s how to use it:

Step 1, Choose The Right Color: If your hair is blond or light/medium brown, go for the creamy-colored “light” powder. If your hair is red, black or dark brown, then the cocoa-colored “dark” powder is for you.

Step 2, Get Into Position: Sprinkle a little powder onto your fingers, bend at your waist, flip your head over and let your hair hang down.

Step 3, Application: Work the powder into your scalp with your fingers like you’re shampooing your hair. You might to sprinkle powder on your fingers 2 or 3 times.

Step 4, Style: Stand up straight and style your hair as usual.

Step 5, Get A Life: Enjoy the extra hour in your day that you didn't have to spend washing and styling your hair!

Thank you LeeAnn Silver for your application instructions! That made all the difference!

Many Names Of Rayon: Soy, Bamboo, Viscose, Modal, Tencel

2010-05-13T09:27:00.000-07:00

Rayon first came on the fashion scene in the early 1900s. Rayon is a semi-synthetic material made from plant materials that are synthesized with a chemical-intensive process to convert plant pulp to silky fibers. Rayon was first made from cellulose from cotton and trees. More recently, bamboo and soy are used as the feedstock for rayon production.

Labeling

Rayon made from cellulose or cotton pulp is often labeled “Rayon” “Modal” or “Tencel TM.” However, rayon made from bamboo or soy is often labeled with the feedstock material “Bamboo” or “Soy.” This labeling is somewhat ambiguous. Although the feedstock is natural, the various processes for creating the soft, silky fibers are industrial and chemical-intensive. Soy fabrics and any soft, draping bamboo fabrics are rayons. Bamboo with a texture similar to linen is far less processed.

Sustainability

Rayon is made from plants, which are a renewable resource. The more sustainable forestry, cultivation and harvesting practices that are employed in the production of the feedstock plant material, the “greener” the end product.

- Trees and cotton can be cultivated with conventional or sustainable and organic methods.

- Bamboo is the world’s fastest growing plant so the cultivation cycle of harvesting and replanting is quick. This plant thrives without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides herbicides.

- Soy cultivation has low impact on the soil and plants are grown without pesticides. Soy yarn is made from the material left behind after soybean oil pressing and tofu production so production of fibers turns trash into treasure.

- Some rayon production, such as Tencel, employs closed-loop systems that reclaim and reuse chemical and wastewater components of the manufacturing process.

You get to decide what "green" means to you. The sustainability and impact puzzle is complex. When choosing natural fabrics for their eco-friendly properties, you can consider the source of the material: whether the material is made from natural materials or man-made chemicals. Or you can consider all or part of the life-cycle: cultivation and harvest of the raw material, fiber processing and dying, energy used for manufacture and transportation to market, cleaning and care for the garments and use-life and final disposition of the material.

Click here for more about natural fibers and fabrics.

Thank you Kiana McFarland for your help with the research for this post.

What Does Your Picture Say About You And Your Business?

2010-05-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

The adage says “a picture is worth a thousand words.” So, what does your picture say about you and your business? Does it say what you think it says?

Many people use photographs of themselves in their marketing and sales materials, websites, business cards and social media sites. Potential customers and business associates use your photographs to judge you, your character, personality, business style, level of success and your professionalism.

The thought is that potential customers will understand and connect with you when they see the face behind the business. If your picture reflects an accurate representation of you, then the photograph can be an asset. If it doesn't, it can be a liability.

Let's do an experiment to see this process in action. Here’s a picture from an advertising flier. Based on this photograph, what is the business about? What do they sell? Check back tomorrow to find out what they really do.

The Answer

This picture is from a marketing flier for a computer company. The photograph creates confusion because the business is high-tech, yet everything in and about the photograph is old-fashioned – the composition, background, photo style and wardrobe.

Every detail of a photograph contributes to the impression that the viewer takes away - the look in your eyes, posture, attire, hair style, makeup, setting, photo style, etc.

Pictures work best when they accurately reflect who you are and the business you conduct. Are you creative, analytical, stable, approachable? Is your business modern, traditional, high-tech, artistic, revolutionary, safe, eco-friendly? Your picture should say so.

Note: this exercise is not a comment or speculation about the actual character, personalities, capabilities or competencies of the people in the photograph.

The Scoop on Bamboo Fabric

2010-04-27T05:53:00.000-07:00

Bamboo fabrics were developed at the beginning of this century and are new to the fashion scene. Here's a snapshot of it's properties, care and green (and not so green) aspects.

Properties: Bamboo fabric is soft, strong and lightweight. It feels beautiful on your skin and has natural anti-static properties. It has excellent moisture management properties, so clothing made from bamboo absorbs perspiration and dries quickly. Bamboo fabric contains a natural antibacterial agent, so it resists odors, mold and mildew.

Applications: Bamboo fabric works well for intimate garments that need to breath. It is ideal for work-out wear, underwear, socks, t-shirts, pajamas, bath robes, towels and bed linens.

Disadvantages: Bamboo shrinks during the first washing and has a tendency to pill.

Care: Wash in the delicate cycle or by hand in cold water and line dry. Skip the dryer, dryer sheets and fabric softeners to reduce pilling. Use a sweater shaver to remove pills from areas prone to abrasion.

How It’s Made: Natural bamboo yarn is similar to linen in appearance and feel. It is made from the fine, fibrous material inside the bamboo stalk. The woody outer stalk is crushed and the interior fibers are separated using natural enzymes. The fibers are washed, fluffed and spun into yarn.

Bamboo viscose (also called bamboo rayon) is luxuriously soft and drapes gently. It is made by turning the raw bamboo material into pulp. The pulp is treated with a chemical-intensive process and formed into threads that are spun into yarn.

Sustainability: The bamboo plant is a renewable material and grows without chemical pesticides or herbicides. It is the world’s fastest growing plant with a quick cultivation cycle. Natural bamboo fabrics are biodegradable and recyclable.

Note, bamboo viscose fabric is not the same as natural bamboo fabric. Bamboo viscose is made from the same raw material; however, chemical-intensive processing methods are used to make the fabric. Both types of bamboo products can be labeled "bamboo." If you want to know which type of bamboo was used to make a garment, check the feel of the fabric (bamboo viscose is soft and drapy while natural bamboo is similar to linen).

The sustainability and impact puzzle is complex. When choosing natural fabrics for their eco-friendly properties, you can consider the source of the material: whether the material is made from natural materials or man-made chemicals. Or you can consider all or part of the life-cycle: cultivation and harvest of the raw material, fiber processing and dying, energy used for manufacture and transportation to market, cleaning and care for the garments and use-life and final disposition of the material.

You get to decide what "green" means to you. Choose the fabrics you love and the green elements that resonate with you.

Thank you Kiana McFarland for your help with the research for this post.

Minx Without The Jinx

2010-04-20T20:15:00.000-07:00

Looking for something new and fun for your nails? Minx takes nail art to a new level and turns your nails into chrome, animal print, plaid, flames or camouflage. They have appeared in music videos, fashion runways and they are becoming available in major cities.

Minx were developed using car-wrap technology. The designs are printed on a polymer sheet and “shrink wrapped” to your natural nails.

Minx has gotten mixed reviews. The secret to Minx is great application from an experienced technician and careful maintenance. Here are tips for getting the most from your Minx from Athena Elliot, Houston’s (and Hollywood’s) premier Minx artist. Her clients are the whose-who of the entertainment industry ...LeToya Luckett, Keri Hilson, Mya, Kim Zolciak and the list goes on.

Application & Removal

Minx application takes about an hour. The polymer “stickers” are applied to your real nails after the adhesive backing is activated with heat. Minx shrink as they cool and are trimmed for a final fit.

To remove, warm the Minx with a hairdryer to release the adhesive and peal them off your nails. You may damage your nails if you try to peel them off without heating them first.

Maintenance

Maintenance is key to making the Minx last. After a couple days, the edges will probably begin to lift. Use a hairdryer to heat up each “sticker” and press it down on the nail until it cools. This will re-adhere the edges to your natural nails. Also, file the tips of your nails in a downward motion to manage the edges. This daily maintenance will make the Minx last up to 2 weeks.

We tested these tips on our model. With Athena's skilled application and our model's careful maintenance, her nails were beautiful for 2 weeks. Thank you to Athena for all your great advice and thank you Lisa for testing and modeling!

When Image Gets In The Way

2010-01-06T12:31:00.000-08:00

WOW! Six days later, and people are still buzzing about Jennifer Lopez's New Year's Eve catsuit outfit. That might be a good thing. All publicity is good publicity because the public is talking about you, right?

From an image perspective, her outfit didn't work. It distracted from her performance instead of enhancing it. As a viewer, you spend the whole performance wondering...is she naked?... is she wearing underwear?... is she wearing some concealing garment under the suit to cover all her private affairs? ...or is something going to pop out unexpectedly? You don't remember anything about the performance. What she said? What she sang? The dance steps? The other dancers? Her connection with the audience? Nothing.

Here's a video, if you want to watch it for yourself.

Your image can support you or get in your way. You might not be J-Lo, but what you wear effects other people's experience of you. No matter how fantastic you are, if your outfit is distracting in any way, people can't pay attention to you, what you say or what you contribute. Watch out for loud jewelry, loose threads, stains, lot's of busy patterns, revealing clothing, etc. Of course you shouldn't remove your personality from your image, just be sure that YOU shine through (figuratively, that is!).

Want more info about what works and what doesn't? Here's another example. Thanks for stopping by!

Plus Size Fitness Fashion

2009-08-13T07:18:00.000-07:00

The worst thing about working out is the way we feel and look in most athletic wear. Feeling self-conscious about our bodies can even stop us from working out. Modern athletic wear is flattering and comes in sizes to fit real women. Here are some tips and tricks for choosing workout wear that's Fabulous not Flabulous (TM)!

How To Choose Flattering Fitness Fashion

The Don’ts
Skip garments that add bulk to your body or turn you into a "diamond" (wide at the waist and hips)
- Oversized T-shirts
- Drawstring pants/shorts
- Coach shorts
- Leggings/bike shorts

The Do’s

For a flattering look, choose
Skirts/dresses – flattering for hips, thighs, and thick torsos
V-neck/scoop neck– gives a leaner look
Show The Good Stuff - show off your assets and show a little skin on your best parts (legs, arms, chest). This distracts attention away from the flaws.
Tiny Parts - Show off the tiniest part of your body (rib cage or waist)
Smooth Imperfections – look for garments made from compression fabrics to smooth the waist, caboose and thighs.
Boot-Cut Pants - This style makes your curves look great and counter-acts the "diamond." Look for yoga pants, capris with flare, or loose shorts.
Flat Waist Bands – Smooth waist bands flatten the waist and tumm.
Prints - Camouflage lumps and bumps. Prints keep the eye moving so they never settle on a flaw. Wear prints on the flawed areas.

Sources
Here are some sources for flattering fitness wear:
http://www.target.com/
C9 Workout Skorts

http://www.lululemon.com/

http://www.nike.com/
Be Strong Pants

http://www.skirtsports.com/ (misses/women plus sz)
Gym Girl Skirt
Happy Hour Skirt
Sweetest Thing Skirt (with leggings)
Wonder Girl Tank
Wonder Girl Running Dress

http://www.womanwithin.com/ (women plus sz)
Ribbed women's plus size tank top by All American Comfort
All American Comfort® Stretch knit boot-cut yoga pants with side stripes

http://www.jms.com/ (women plus sz)
Champion® Plus Texture Tee

http://www.alwaysforme.com/ (women plus sz)
Champion® Plus Texture Tee
Women's Plus Size Work Out Clothing - Danskin Wide Leg Pant - Style #3093 -
Womens Plus Size Activewear - Supplex - 3687 Danskin Boot Leg Plus Size Pant
Women's Plus Size Activewear - Danskin Skort W/White Piping - Style#3109
Women's Plus Size Work Out Clothing - Danskin Straight Leg Crop Pant - Style#3100

Thanks for reading! Love hearing what you tried and what worked for you!

Lip Gloss Favorites

2008-11-16T19:55:00.000-08:00

The Imagine Test Panel sampled 35 brands of lipgloss! Thank you to all the companies that submitted glosses! We appreciate your generosity and had a blast trying them all. The original plan was to pick one brand to feature on Great Day Houston on November 24…but we fell in love with more than one. So, we decided it was only right to share all our favorites…enjoy!

Kiss Me Now Lipgloss

Bella il Fiore, Squeeze-Tube w/Wand, $15

Colors: Walking On Sunshine, PYT, Heartbreaker, Simply Irresistible, Love Shack

Loved everything about these! The colors, smooth shiny texture, squeeze tube with wand so you can get every last drop, fun shade names, vanilla scent, and cute cute cute packaging. Perfect for the girlie girl! http://www.bellabeauty.net/

Wet Lips Super Shine Gloss

Skinn by Dimitri James, Squeeze-Tube, $12.50

Colors: Anaranja (great shade for all skin-tones), Quartz, and Strut

Oooh, this was a universal favorite! The texture is soooo smooth, light, and glossy, great variety of colors, lightly scented, AND all natural ingredients! http://www.skinn.com/

Hydro Salve Lip Balm

Baxter of California, Squeeze-Tube, $8

Colors: clear

The texture is slick and smooth, packaging works for women and men, and we loved the Mojito flavor! http://www.baxterofcalifornia.com/

Makeup Designery Lip Gloss, Pot, $11

Colors: Iced Latte, Shine (both great for all skin-tones)

We loved the smooth texture, light scent, and versatile colors. And it's slim enough to slip into your back pocket!. http://www.mudshop.com/

Vera Moore Lip Gloss

Tube With Wand, $14.50

Colors: Sugar (great for all skin-tones)

Loved the very light texture that goes on smoothly, minty scent, variety of colors, and pretty packaging. The gloss feels great on your lips and the wand feels great in your hand. www.veramoorecosmetics.com/lipgloss.htm

Go Light My Lips, Emmy Award Winning Makeup Artist Elena George

Glass Bottle with Wand, $19 - $38

Colors: Ginger Spice, Red Carpet (both are great for all skin-tones)

We loved the color and feel, the built-in-mirror, and the option to monogram the bottle in crystals! This one is a show-stopper! http://www.golightmylips.com/

We'd love to hear which one you liked best. Let us know at sarah@sarahshah.com

Thanks For The Hair & Makeup!

2008-11-05T12:12:00.000-08:00

First For Women, thank you so much for the star treatment today! The magazine organized a photoshoot to go along with the article Halie Potocki is writing about my journey in to health. Thank you Andrea Schutter for the best hair and makeup EVER! Feel so glamorour in the falsies....false eyelashes, that is! Here's a picture I took in the back yard ...

Juan Moldanado's professional shot will be in the January 2009 issue. What an honor to work with such professionals! Here are links if you want to check out their published work http://www.reelmakeupfx.com/ and http://www.juanmaldonado.net/.

Wife Swap Seeking Image Consultants

2008-11-05T12:00:00.000-08:00

This Just Came In from ABC. If you apply, would you tell them you found the info here? Thanks and Great Luck! Here's the request from Wife Swap (in their words).

WIFE SWAP, ABC'S HIT PRIMETIME SHOW, SEEKING SUPERSTAR BEAUTIFUL FAMILIES!

Do you believe that a person's first impression is their only impression? Do you make your living by being an image consultant? Is how you look and present yourself the most important thing in your life? Then I want to talk to you!!!! ABC's Hit Show Wife Swap is now casting Image Consultants to swap famalies!

The premise of Wife Swap is that one parent from each household swaps places for a week to experience how another family lives. It's an experience for the whole family and opportunity to both learn and teach different family values.

Wife Swap is a fascinating story of what happens when two couples see themselves and their partners in a whole new light. The New York Post says, "It should be called 'Life Swap' because it's not just the wives who learn something here. It's the families."
Potential families can live anywhere in the continental United States, but we ask that families applying for the show consist of two parents and have at least one child, age 7 or older, living at home.

To submit for the show please email a family photo and description to: gaby.wifeswap@gmail.com.

All families featured on the show receive a financial honorarium upon the airing of their episode!
Those who refer a family receive a referral fee. If you are a family unit (two parents and children between the ages of 7 and 17) who love an adventure, I would love to hear from you today! Also, please feel free to send this casting along to any families you feel would be appropriate! More information is available at: http://abc.go.com/primetime/wifeswap.

Cool For School!

2008-08-14T07:27:00.000-07:00

Looking for eco-friendly school supplies or the coolest ideas to make life more fun and efficient? Here are our latest finds! To see the items live, click on the link at the bottom of this post to watch our segment on Great Day Houston.

Ideas For Organization
Mom Organizers - When the kids go back to school, Moms can get overwhelmed by all the information, schedules, activities, homework projects, oh my! The Mom's Agenda Desk Folio is great organizing system to keep track of everything. It's customizable and there are even helpful preprinted forms -permission slips, babysitter info, chore assignments, etc. (folio $32, agenda $45, www.momagenda.com).
Password Organizer – Are you getting overwhelmed by all the passwords you need now? Here’s an organizer just for them. And it won’t attract any snoping because it looks like a boring address book. ($19.99 at http://www.internetpasswordorganizer.com/)

School Supplies
Sharpie Permanent Pens – Here's the latest pen from Sharpie - everything you love without bleeding through the paper. (http://www.officemax.com/)
Be Green Pens from Pilot – Eco-friendly pens made from 70%+ recycled materials. Same price and quality as the conventional pens. (http://www.pilotbegreen.com/, office max, target)
Smencils - Scented pencils made from recycled newspaper. They smell great! (http://www.delight.com/, $11.50)
Lapsac - "Purse" and laptop bag in one ($58 http://www.delight.com/)
Osprey Book/Laptop Bags – These durable bags have pockets for everything (laptop, ipod, cell phone, water bottle and personal items) and a padded shoulder strap that conceals your Ipod cords. (Float Bag $79, Flip Bag $69, REI)

Space Saving Gadgets & Electronics
Digital Picture Frame – What a space-save for the dorm room or any room. Pop your digital camera’s memory card right into the Giinii frame and it's an instant slideshow. ($119, Wal-Mart, www.giinii.com)

Pulse SmartPen – Have you ever missed something while you were taking notes during a meeting or lecture? This pen keeps track of the audio in the room as you take notes. Miss something, just go to the spot on the page where you missed something, and the pen replays the conversation that took place when you took those notes! You can even download the pen to your computer and instantly transcribe your notes. ($199, http://www.amazon.com/, Target)
HP Pavilion dv5 Entertainment Notebook PC – What a space saver! It have a built-in flatscreen tv plus all the features a college student wants - Webcam, TV tuner, Wi-fi, Quick Play ($549.99, http://www.hp.com/)
Protective Neoprene Laptop Case – These cases protect against shock, scratches, and moisture and come in cool colorful, high-resolution designs. You can even upload your favorite pictures and have them printed on your bag. ($35, http://www.designersleeves.com/)
Electronics Wipes – E-tronic wipes are made for cleaning TVs, cell phones, and other electronic gadgets. ($5.49, Target)
Palm Centro Smartphone –touch screen, full keyboard, a camera with video capture, BroadbandAccess Connect capable, Wireless Sync enabled, web browsing capabilities, a digital Music Player and Bluetooth ($319, verizon, att, sprint)

Green Up Your Lunch Box
Organic fruit & nut snacks - Fruit and nuts are the only ingredients in "Peeled Snacks." So yummy! ($2-$3 at Whole Foods or http://www.peeledsnack.com/)
Stainless Steel Water Bottles – 100% food-grade stainless steel water bottles by Ecousable. No need for plastic water bottles when you use this reusable bottle with filtered water from home. ($14, http://www.ecousable/)
Reusable Sandwich Wraps – No need to throw away a baggie every day. The Wrap-n-mat is an eco-friendly way to keep your sandwich clean and fresh. (made in the USA, $6.50, http://www.wrapnmat.com/)
School Jersey Napkins – Napkins that look like college jerseys ($3.19 for pack of 8, http://www.jerseynaps.com/)

Beauty
Just Be T-Shirts – These cute t-shirts come with sayings like "Be Muddy, Be Sweet, Be Organic ($15, http://www.jb-justbe.com/)
Eco Friendly Shoes – These cute shoes are by J-41 Shoes. The soles are made from 51% recycled rubber and the uppers from 100% recycled material (Palm Vegan $89, Madrid Vegan $99, Urban Sole Outpost, Whole Earth Provision Company, http://www.zappos.com/)
Zeno "Zit Zapper" – This gadget uses low level heat to kill the bacteria in occasional blemishes ($89, Wal-Greens, Target)

Eco-Friendly Dorm Room
Reusable Grocery Bags – No more stashing or trashing all those plastic grocery bags. Envirosax are reusable and washable. ($35 for pack of 5, http://www.redenvelope.com/)
Laundry 101 Bag – This laundry bag has stain-fighting instructions printed right on the bag ($38, http://www.delight.com/)
Nellie’s Natural Laundry Nuggets – Easy, pre-measured and biodegradable nuggets you can just pop in the wash – ($17, http://www.delight.com/)
Room & Linen Spray – Keeps the dorm room smelling fresh and sweet. Safe for linens, paper, and your skin ($34, signature perfume www.whirledevents.com)
Poo-Pourri – Keep the common bathroom smelling sweet with a natural bathroom spray ($10 - $15 http://www.poopourri.com/)

Click this link to see the our finds live on Great Day Houston http://www.khou.com/greatday/video/?nvid=272413&shu=1 Click here to see the Pulse Smartpen http://www.khou.com/greatday/video/?nvid=272423&shu=1

Behind The Scenes With MTV - Haley's Super Sweet 16!

2008-06-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

Working with Haley on the MTV project was a blast! There were no editor tricks, she really is that fun and sweet!

Below you'll find pictures of what you saw on MTV - the party, Haley's outfits, and behind the scenes with the people who coordinated the party and all of Haley's spectacular looks. Contacts for Haley's team are at the very bottom of this post.

Fashion Designer Suzanne B created a custom dress. That segment didn't make it on the show, but here's the link for a behind the scenes look at the fashion show. (clip 5) http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?id=1588232&vid=238612

Haley Hey, she really IS super sweet! Especially in this hoodie by Southpole. (Janet Roe Photography)

Haley in the House Of Dereon Lounge. Her wardrobe for the pre-party photoshoot was all Southpole (Janet Roe Photography)

Hanging with Destiny's Child at the House of Dereon. Tweety jacket by Wicked Fashion. (Janet Roe Photography)

Joker Jacket by Wicked Fashion (Janet Roe Photography)

Haley's Grand Entrance Look. Beyonce wore this dress in coral on the cover of Cosmopolitan December 2007. Yes, those ARE Manolos! More info about the dress at http://www.houseofdereon.com/ (Photography by David E, all rights reserved)

Outfit change #2. Haley is wearing one of Beyonce's dresses!! (Photography by David E, all rights reserved)

Yes, that's a portrait of Beyonce in the background! (Photography by David E, all rights reserved)

TV Johnny Dang made an appearance. Check out his clients and their bling at http://www.tvjohnny.net/.

Haley’s Team

Sarah Shah, Image Artist (wardrobe, accessories, and makeup)

Alana Padgett, Event Planner, Nventive Events, http://www.nventiveevents.cm/

Ms. Tina Knowles, (Red Dress) House of Dereon, http://www.houseofdereon.com/

Suzanne B, Fashion Designer (Custom Black Dress with Gold Trim) Tropicouture, http://www.tropicouture.net/

Southpole, Wardrobe For Photo Shoot, http://www.southpole-usa.com/

Cindy Sanz, Hair Stylist, http://www.huesbyheather.com/

House Of Dereon Club - http://houseofdereonmediacenter.com/index.php

Watch Haley's episode on MTV http://www.mtv.com/overdrive/?id=1588227&vid=238698

Behind The Scenes With Kathi Crawford At Great Day Houston

2008-06-05T20:18:00.000-07:00

Kathi Crawford with Great Day Houston Host Deborah Duncan

Kathi in the HOT seat!

Kathi with her #1 Fan

Producer's eye view of Deborah in action

Kathi Crawford, SPHR, appeared as the expert guest today on Great Day Houston. She talked about creating flexible jobs and gave some great examples of ways working mothers can customize the work environment to fit their needs. To watch the show, follow the link below.

Kathi Crawford, is an expert in progressive Human Resources and focuses on"Building Capability through People." She is the Founder and Principal for People Possibilities. Her company provides one-on-one and group coaching, team building, facilitation and corporate training services to high performing individuals, groups and organizations who want to explore possibilities for accelerated improvement and results. Contact Kathi at 281.450.6316 or kcrawford@peoplepossibilities.com.

Watch Kathi talk about the history of women in the workplace (June 5, segment 1) http://www.khou.com/greatday/video/?nvid=251981&shu=1 Watch Kathi talk about flexible jobs (june 5, segment 6) http://www.khou.com/greatday/video/?nvid=251983&shu=1

Kathi's Image Team
TV Image and Makeup - Sarah Shah, http://www.sarahshah.com/
Hair Styling - Heather Hues, http://www.huesbyheather.com/

"I could not believe it when I received the call to be the “expert” on Great Day Houston. I wanted to do it because I am passionate about the topic – helping moms with ways they can have it all – a career and a family! But then I realized it was going to be on TV!! I had never been on TV before, yet everything I had done in my life prepared me for this moment – I went for it and did not turn back! Oh, and I called in the expert – Sarah Shah. She helped me make sure that all I had to focus on was the topic and she would take care of everything else – and she did!! Thanks Sarah!!" - Kathi Crawford, SPHR, People Possibilities

Mother's Gift Day Survey Winner

2008-05-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

Michelle Schneider is the winner of the Mother's Day Gift Survey Goodie Basket! Thank you to all of you who responded to our survey and told us what you'd love to get for Mother's Day. Michelle's basket included lip balm, balm of gilead, and hand made soaps from Australian Scent, Gloom Away body bar and souflee from Origins, a lavender eye pillow from Barefoot Yoga, permission slip and babysitter info pads from Mom Agenda, dissolving flower petal soaps from Pajamagram, and candles from Grace Candles. Everything she needs to relax!

Picks For Mother’s Day

2008-05-06T21:07:00.000-07:00

Picks For Mother’s Day

We conducted an informal survey to find out what beauty and fashion items real women really wanted for Mother's Day. The top pick, by an overwhelming margin, was a day at the spa or pampering time to unwind and relax. Second place - things that connect moms with their children. And third - pretty and practical items. Here are some of our favorites.

Australian Scent makes a beautiful line of all natural skincare products. The company was born in Houston and has become so successful that they are now moving to NYC. These products are packed with essential oils and anti-oxidants. No toxins, no parabens, no cruelty, no worries. Even the packaging is earth-friendly. Here are some of our favorites:
– salt tea detoxifying bath soak – soak in tub and feel the stress flow out of you. ($28)
- foot scrub – loaded with essential oils, almond oil, and sea salt. It disinfects and smooths out the rough patches ($28)
- balm of gilead - anti-aging moisturizer for face and body. It smells so good, I use it instead of perfume (2 scents) ($68)
- lemongrass tea spray – a light fragrance – subtle and lasts all day ($22)
- lip balm – doubles as cuticle repair. dab some on your lips and them used the residual on your cuticles. ($8)
- soaps – hand made, smell like heaven ($8)
- bugger off – natural mosquito repellant for you and your pets that really works ($12)
FIND them in Houston at baylor college of medicine plastic surgery center, kuhl-linscom, brown eyes blue, or online at http://www.australianscent.com/

Dr. Alan Weil has teamed up with Origins to create “the way of the bath” Macha Green Tea Sea Salt Scrub – the scent of green tea is so relaxing. And the tea itself has is one of the strongest anti-oxidants there are. It also contains essential oils that moisturize, and the sea salt to relax muscles. The full line of “the way of the bath is coming in June”. But the scrub is available now. ($45)
Origins GloomAway bath set (soap -$13, bath gel -$21, scrub - $20, and body souflee - $27.50) is back by popular demand. it has a joyful grapefruit scent.
FIND them in department stores or http://www.origins.com/

Fragrance flower petals – these flower petals are actually soap petals. Fill up the tub and sprinkle these beautiful petals on the water just before you get in. The petals will dissolve into bubblebath. ($7.50)
FIND them at http://www.pajamagram.com/

Create a relaxing atmosphere with Grace candles, created in Houston. Our favorites – vanilla sugar, ambrosia, coconut lime, and apple peel. ($16 for tumbler, $6 for the travel tin)
FIND them at http://www.gracecandles.com/

Lavender Eye Pillows are filled with relaxing lavender and flax seeds. Lay them over your eyes and let the scent take you away. ($16.50) FIND the prettiest ones at http://www.barefootyoga.com/.

Redenvelope.com has pretty locket necklaces and bracelets that hold pictures of the children (or pets for the doggy mamas), pea in a pod pearl necklaces, and birthstone necklaces engraved with names of your children along with their birthstones. These gifts also come beautifully wrappes with moving stories about how the gifts were made or inspired.
FIND them at http://www.redenvelope.com/ .

Make Mom’s life easier and more organized with Mom’s Agenda. Organizers and Folios to keep track of the family’s information, events, and calendar.
- Mom’s Agenda – organized by the school year, one page per day with space for Mom’s calendar and the family’s appointments ($45)
- Kitchen Folio – one stop for all the family’s important information – medical, contacts, birthdays, school schedules, sports schedules, and plenty of blank sections to customize for your family. Plus pads for menu planning, babysitter info, permission slips, and daily todos ($32.95)FIND them at http://www.momagenda.com/.

Lounge wear and pajamas that are pretty, comfortable, flattering, and family friendly
- Leopard Lounge Pajamas – ($49.95)
- Lacy Pointel Lounge Set - jersey and lace pajamas ($49.95)
- Spring Morning Pajamas - pink cotton pajamas ($49.95)
FIND them at http://www.pajamagram.com/

Would you like a full-coverage panty that doesn’t create panty lines? Soma Intimates has just the thing. Their vanishing edge high-cut briefs really work. They don’t ride up, cut in, or show through your clothes. They come in a bunch of pretty colors. ($12)
FIND Soma Intimates store in Houston at Highland Villiage next to Chico's or online at http://www.soma.com/store/browse/shelf.jsp?subCatId=cat20021&catId=cat40090

Pop-out pendants are a piece of art you can wear. The artist Melissa Borrell is in Houston. The pendants are flat so they are easy to put them in a card and pop them in the mail ($36)
FIND them at the Houston Museum of Fine Arts Gift Shop or online at http://www.melissaborrell.com/.

Cole Haan Tote Bag – Mom doesn’t need to bring home all those paper and plastic shopping bags when she has a beautiful tote bag like this. Chic and earth-conscious. This “Slim Tote” bag comes in orange, green, and black ($425).
FIND them at http://www.colehaan.com/

All these items were on Great Day Houston on May 6, 2008. Here's the link to watch the segment http://www.khou.com/greatday/video/?nvid=242470 .

Refine Your Style With InStyle

2008-04-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

University of Houston Women's Forum Conference - What's Next For Women: Exploring The Edge, March 28, 2008
Conference attendees all got a complimentary copy of In Style Magazine. Participants in Sarah's Session (pictured above), Navigating The World Of Image, Judgement And The Language Of Fashion, got hands on experience using In Style to design their personal style. Check out these useful sections every month: Instant Style, How To Wear, and Great At Any Age, for ideas about making trends, accessories, and styles work for you.