Love Jewelry? Here's a Great Find; jewelrypayless.com

It isn't the cost of a designer original alone that makes a piece of jewelry, covet-able. Good designs and good quality have the same effect. I knew I was on to something really, really good, when I went to The Accessories Show, an event that brings lots of jewelery designers and wholesalers together under one roof. I kept getting compliments --way more than usual--on the jewelry I was wearing. The pieces were designer-inspired but affordable baubles from JewelryPayless.com. When I told people that I'd gotten these items from http://www.jewelerypayless.com/ they were shocked! They assumed I bought them in expensive boutiques in Beverly Hills, or Tiffany & Co.


So now I'm sharing my secret find with you: Jewelrypayless sells jewelry online that is high quality, but amazingly low in price. The pieces you'll see below look like some of the most expensive trends on the market, but in real gold with genuine stones, they'd be unaffordable for most people. Jewelrypayless takes these designs and makes them accessible. None of the items I've chosen below, are over $70.00


If that sounds too good to be true, all I can say is that you really have to see them in person to understand how special they are. Or, you can just trust my judgement, and place an order! Here are some of my favorite pieces for enjoying now, and for holiday gift giving, in a few months:

Tiffany Inspired Etolie CZ Silver Earring appeal to the lady in you. These are sterling silver with sparkling cubic zirconia stones for $29.99 The real deal in 18K gold with diamonds is over $1,700, but this these lovely, oval, french clip silver earrings give you a very similar look--you'll just pay a lot less.

For the trendy girl: 14K Gold Plated Silver Tiffany Inspired Ladies Sevillana Ring $32.99 This ring is designed with the "O" circle made with black precious onyx gemstones in a pave setting. It looks very similar to Elsa Peretti's Sevillana ring for Tiffany, but actually, this one is a lot more interesting. The substantial band is 14K yellow gold plated over solid sterling silver. The color combination of this ring gives this ring a modern look. When you move your hand, the black cs twinkle. It's just gorgeous! No one will be able to tell you didn't spend a fortune for it!

I've fallen in love with this ring, that is truly for the romantic. This Ladies Eternity Cubic Zirconia Brown Steel Wedding Band Ring $24.99 takes a classic shape and remakes it in a modern way. The dome eternity ring is a chic, modern, stainless steel ladies wedding ring with a high polish brown finish. A sparkling, all around ring of tiny Cubic zirconias is sandwiched between two striking, shiny, brown bands of stainless steel (looks like rich burnished Russian gold). The inside features a smooth, comfort band interior, just like the luxury rings .

The young at heart, and anyone in love, with love this nice pendant. Sterling Silver Angel Wings take flight with a 3CT Heart of Cubic Zirconia $29.99. The 14" chain is delicate, and has an adjustable link of up to 2" fastened with a lobster claw clasp to fit any neckline. The pendant is sterling silver under a coating of rhodium for extra protection against tarnish. If you want to show someone you are an angel, or want a way to show that special girl she's an angel that has won your heart, this is the way to do it! want to give someone your heart this holiday season, this is a unique and modern way to do it!! Younger women will be gaga over this, but it's appropriate to add a bit of "rocker chic" to any fun loving woman, too.

Here are two picks for guys who love jewelery, but don't want to go broke buying it:

Black Rubber Cord Necklace w/ Stainless Steel Clasp $14.99 3mm Black rubber cord necklace with solid spring clasp in 316L stainless steel. This rubber and steel necklace will never tarnish. Available in three lengths: 16", 18", and 20". The black leather color and the contemporary steel spring clasp is a perfect fit for all of your large pendants. This is a delicate cord, meant to be worn as an accept, but I think it would be perfect for women to use as a "chain" for hanging pendants, as well. Type: 316L Stainless Steel Note: Non Corrosive

Men's 24" 8mm Pirate Skull Design Stainless Steel Bullet Chain $69.99 Shiny, silvery skulls form an eye-catching chain made of stainless steel with great detail on the face of the skull. The highly polished, heavy chain is 316L Surgical Steel and is very weighty. It is also hypoallergenic. While the chain is meant for the guys, women will also find it fun and edgy, with it's large, silver toggle clasp, it makes a serious fashion statement!



Ready to Shop? http://www.jewelrypayless.com

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. The photos here are copyrighted and may not be used or copied in any form without permission. The original, high definition photos are available. For inquiries Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Ces photos sont garanties les droits d'auteur et ne peuvent être employées ou copiées sous n'importe quelle forme sans permission. Elles sont également à basse résolution pour le Web. Les photos originales sont disponibles. Si vous voulez les employer, enquérez-vous svp : advicesisters-à-advicesisters-point-filet これらの写真は著作権で保護されて、あらゆる形態で許可なしで使用されるか、またはコピーされないかもしれない。 それらは網のためにまた低分解能である。 元の写真は利用できる。 それらを使用したいと思ったら尋ねなさい: advicesisters advicesisters点網Tesis fotografías área copyrighted and may not Be Used ahora bien copied en any form without permiso. They are also low-resolution for the web. The original fotografías área available. If you want to use them, please inquire: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net 이 사진은 저작권 소유 이고 어떤 모양든지에서 허가 없이 사용되거나 베껴지지 않을지도 모른다. 그들은 또한 웹을 위해 low-resolution 이다. 본래 사진은 유효하다. 당신이 그(것)들을 이용하고 싶은 경우에, 사문하십시오: advicesisters 에 advicesisters 점 그물If you like this blog, bookmark it, or why not just subscribe to it, and/or visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/

STELLANUDE Stella McCartney's Latest, Lovliest Fragrance

Stella McCartney’s latest take on her Signature fragrance Stella, is STELLANUDE Eau de Toilette $43.00 1 oz.; 1.6 oz. $63.00; 3.4 fl. oz $81.00 is also available as a Linen Mist $59.00 4.2 oz. STELLANUDE is soft and feminine. It's meant to be an extension of her lingerie collection.

The top notes in this floral fragrance include Moroccan rose infused with a hint of grapefruit (but you mostly smell the rose). The heart is of tender white peony, and a very slight, spicy hint of pink pepper. It's the bottom notes of Ugandan vanilla and grey amber that take the feminine to sensual, and enrich the overall scent with modern, sensual allure.


My first impression was that this was just a pleasant, light floral, but by the time of drydown, I'd come to appreciate all it's facets. It's not an overly complicated mixture, but it smells enticing. It draws you in for another sniff...and then another...and another. That's the mark of a wonderful fragrance! It’s almost delicate, but nude doesn’t mean barely there. it is significant enough to linger. One spray and you’re good to go.

And the packaging is lovely. It arrives in a pretty, watery pink, outer carton that is essentially a faceted oval. The only bold accent is a black band along the bottom half of the carton with STELLANUDE spelled out in dotted, silver letters. Inside, the faceted bottle is also colored with a graduated milky pink (almost the color of flesh colored lingerie) and there's a milky pink, facted plastic cap covering the spray diffuser. The cap also has a silver and black band that mirrors the one on the outer carton.

Another, more novel use of STELLANUDE is in the Linen Scented Mist, meant to be sprayed on fabric and not necessarily directly onto your skin (although there’s no harm in doing so). Spray it lightly onto your clothes as you iron them. Envelop yourself in the scented mist by spraying it over your head, just in front of you, and walking through it. Let it settle onto your clothes, and your hair and skin. Or you can spray it on your lingerie . The warmth of your body make STELLANUDE waft up from your body...sexy and romantic. Spray it on your sheets (or on his) for a very nice way to drift off into dreamland. The Linen Mist is also less expensive, so you can enjoy STELLANUDE , for a little bit less.


STELLANUDE is exclusive to Sephora from now until December 31st and then it will be available in select department stores.

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. The photos here are copyrighted and may not be used or copied in any form without permission. The original, high definition photos are available. For inquiries Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Ces photos sont garanties les droits d'auteur et ne peuvent être employées ou copiées sous n'importe quelle forme sans permission. Elles sont également à basse résolution pour le Web. Les photos originales sont disponibles. Si vous voulez les employer, enquérez-vous svp : advicesisters-à-advicesisters-point-filet これらの写真は著作権で保護されて、あらゆる形態で許可なしで使用されるか、またはコピーされないかもしれない。 それらは網のためにまた低分解能である。 元の写真は利用できる。 それらを使用したいと思ったら尋ねなさい: advicesisters advicesisters点網Tesis fotografías área copyrighted and may not Be Used ahora bien copied en any form without permiso. They are also low-resolution for the web. The original fotografías área available. If you want to use them, please inquire: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net 이 사진은 저작권 소유 이고 어떤 모양든지에서 허가 없이 사용되거나 베껴지지 않을지도 모른다. 그들은 또한 웹을 위해 low-resolution 이다. 본래 사진은 유효하다. 당신이 그(것)들을 이용하고 싶은 경우에, 사문하십시오: advicesisters 에 advicesisters 점 그물If you like this blog, bookmark it, or why not just subscribe to it, and/or visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/

Philip B. Luxe Products to Love, and to Give

I have always loved Philip B. Botanicals luxe hair and body products. But there's one particular line (the Chocolate Milk line) of products that I know is going to appeal to men and women, boys and girls, young and old. Once you see the beautifully boxed Chocolate Milk Gift Set $62.50 of Chocolate Milk Body Wash & Bubble Bath 11. 8 Fl. Oz.; and Chocolate Milk Body Creme 6 fl. Oz. you will clap your hands in glee like a little kid! The Body Wash/Bubble Bath comes in a clear plastic bottle with black flip cap, and a new, black label with white letters. The Body Creme arrives in a clear plastic tube. Both are nestled into a black presentation box, regally appointed with a black, felted lining. A black ribbon with white letters (reminds me of Chanel’s iconic ribbon) featuring the philip B name and "Est. 1991" completes the luxe gift box.

But the products inside are so sinfully delicious, you'll forget all about the box! The scent takes me back elementary school, and those little, waxy cartons of chocolate milk that we used to drink through slim, little straws. Believe it....these products smell just like that chocolate treat! But it's not all fun and games--these products have serious, effective ingredients to nurture your skin, including: cocoa butter, oat protein, wheat amnino acids, and moisturizing aloe, and glycerin.

New to the collection is the Chocolate Milk Body Creme, with the same, sinfulk creamy, chocolattly, sensual scent, and a bunch of botanical hydrators including cocoa butter, safflower seed oil, aloe and milk proteins, along with chocolate and vanilla extracts. It smells amazing, but it also is a really, really, good moisturizing cream that quickly absorbs and makes skin look plump and smooth.

Buy this for yourself, but don't be surprised if it's a man (or woman) magnet. The scent will attract the one you love like moths to a flame. You can also buy these products separately, but the set will make a BIG impression, come holiday time.

...and while you're on the web site, oogling all the products, consider the Philip B. Travel Kit 30.00 featuring four luxurious hair products with delicate flower oils and plant essences and aromatic botanicals that cleanse and pamper hair. All the products come in a re-useable, clear, zippered travel bag featuring:

2 fl oz/60ml Peppermint & Avocado Volumizing & Clarifying Shampoo
2 fl oz/60 ml African Shea Butter Gentle & Conditioning Shampoo
2 fl oz/60ml Nordic Wood Hair & Body Shampoo
2 fl oz/60ml Light-Weight Deep Conditioning Crème Rinse (Classic Formula)

All the products are in plastic, with flip topes. You can also visit the flip top caps in clear plastic bottles an tubes. On the Philip B. Web Site for there is a new section that will help you philip discover the best products for you. None of these products have phthlates petrochemicals or parabens, and each bottle has the ingredients listed right on the label. For example, the peppermint and avocado shampoo has 2.3%pure peppermint oil (you can really smell the peppy peppermint). Give the set, or split up the pieces and you'll have four small gifts or stocking stuffer that are just $7.50 each!

Visit the Philip B. Web Site for more information and to order!




Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. The photos here are copyrighted and may not be used or copied in any form without permission. The original, high definition photos are available. For inquiries Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Ces photos sont garanties les droits d'auteur et ne peuvent être employées ou copiées sous n'importe quelle forme sans permission. Elles sont également à basse résolution pour le Web. Les photos originales sont disponibles. Si vous voulez les employer, enquérez-vous svp : advicesisters-à-advicesisters-point-filet これらの写真は著作権で保護されて、あらゆる形態で許可なしで使用されるか、またはコピーされないかもしれない。 それらは網のためにまた低分解能である。 元の写真は利用できる。 それらを使用したいと思ったら尋ねなさい: advicesisters advicesisters点網Tesis fotografías área copyrighted and may not Be Used ahora bien copied en any form without permiso. They are also low-resolution for the web. The original fotografías área available. If you want to use them, please inquire: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net 이 사진은 저작권 소유 이고 어떤 모양든지에서 허가 없이 사용되거나 베껴지지 않을지도 모른다. 그들은 또한 웹을 위해 low-resolution 이다. 본래 사진은 유효하다. 당신이 그(것)들을 이용하고 싶은 경우에, 사문하십시오: advicesisters 에 advicesisters 점 그물If you like this blog, bookmark it, or why not just subscribe to it, and/or visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/

Clinqiue Superbalanced Powder Makeup SPF 15 is SUPER!

I love the benefits and the look of loose powder mineral makeup, but I have never been able to master the art of keeping myself and my workspace, clean, while using them. Even with the right brush and a shaker jar, I always manage to spill powder everywhere.

But now Clinique has come up with a clever way to package mineral makeup so that even clutzes like me, can’t mess it up.

The new, Clinqiue Superbalanced Powder Makeup SPF 15 $34.50 is just what I have been waiting for. The container makes it all possible. The mirrored compact is essentially a jar with a space below for an anti-bacterial powder brush. But here's the twist: instead of loose powder that can spill, it's contained with a built-in "shaver at the top, that lets you grind a single-serving dose of fresh, loose powder! Your product stays inside the top of the well, so you can sweep it onto the brush and onto your face without loose powder mess.

This is so fantastic, I'd recommend it just for the packaging. But the foundation is wonderful, too. "Smart technology" helps keep skin moist, but controls oil. An encapsulated complex of moisturizing ingredients including phytosqualene and murmuru butter actually gravitate to dry areas of your skin to moisturize it. The mineral rich formula is sweat and humidity resistant, so your skin looks moistly matte, not shiny and greasy. There's SPF 15 for some sun protection on a daily basis, and Vitamins C and E to protect skin against free radical damage. And with all of this, of Clinique makes it fragrance-free and oil-free, and good for all skin types–even sensitive skin.

If that’s not enough to make you want run and buy it right now, you'll love the fact that there are eight semi-sheer shades, so you will find at least one you love. Mineral makeup looks natural, so you can fudge the color tones a bit as well. For example, I tried #o4 Natural which is in the middle of the light to dark range, but while it looked dark in the compact, it looked fine with my light skin with freckled skin anyway.

A calibrated clockwise turn will give you the right amount for your face, but whatever you don’t use stays in the compact's well. Use it alone (or as a finishing touch with Clinque’s Superbalanced Liquid Foundation makeup). For casual days,it's all you need to look put together.


Find Clinique at your favorite makeup counter, or visit the Clinique Web site for more information





Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. The photos here are copyrighted and may not be used or copied in any form without permission. The original, high definition photos are available. For inquiries Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Ces photos sont garanties les droits d'auteur et ne peuvent être employées ou copiées sous n'importe quelle forme sans permission. Elles sont également à basse résolution pour le Web. Les photos originales sont disponibles. Si vous voulez les employer, enquérez-vous svp : advicesisters-à-advicesisters-point-filet これらの写真は著作権で保護されて、あらゆる形態で許可なしで使用されるか、またはコピーされないかもしれない。 それらは網のためにまた低分解能である。 元の写真は利用できる。 それらを使用したいと思ったら尋ねなさい: advicesisters advicesisters点網Tesis fotografías área copyrighted and may not Be Used ahora bien copied en any form without permiso. They are also low-resolution for the web. The original fotografías área available. If you want to use them, please inquire: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net 이 사진은 저작권 소유 이고 어떤 모양든지에서 허가 없이 사용되거나 베껴지지 않을지도 모른다. 그들은 또한 웹을 위해 low-resolution 이다. 본래 사진은 유효하다. 당신이 그(것)들을 이용하고 싶은 경우에, 사문하십시오: advicesisters 에 advicesisters 점 그물If you like this blog, bookmark it, or why not just subscribe to it, and/or visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/

Banglz Wristlets and Ankle Weights Do Great Things for your Body

If you're like a lot of people, exercise is something you want to do, but perhaps, don't ever find the time to fit into your day. The experts suggest you incorporate 30 minutes of moderate exercise into your daily routine at least 5-6 days a week. It is an essential part of maintaining good health.

These days, things that are inexpensive, easy and fun make life more bearable. While finding the time for fitness may be challenging, I've round a company called "FitnessUwear" that could actually help you get your fitness goals on track, without trying too hard.

The company offers a simple solution to adding some exercise into your day: Banglz. They have wrist and leg weights covered in cute patterns and colors (this one is "Karma," but there are lots of other patterns and solids). They have velcro closures to fit everyone. You can also get a set of 4 additional covers in prints and solids, for just $16.00. You simply wear them, and get some resistance action going, just by going about your busy day.

Banglz Wrist Weights $24.95/pair, for example, look like colorful bracelets, or as though you've wrapped scarves around your wrists. But these 1/2 pound weights help to maximize your upper body muscle tone and develop more lean muscle, as your move your arms in daily activities. You don't have to do anything special. Just wear them and do what you always do. But, since these small weights provide constant resistance, they help to strengthen your arms, shoulders, chest and core. The weights aren't strenuously heavy, but over time, you will see a difference in how your upper body looks and feels. Wear them when you're driving, grocery shopping, gardening, or at work...no one will be the wiser that you're getting healthy exercise (and burning fat) while you're out and about.

And there are weights for your lower body as well: The Banglz Ankle Weights $27.95/pair are one pound each, and perform the same function and provide lower body benefits similar to those you get from the Wrist Weights. If you are already an active person. just walking with these ankle weights will help boost your results. If you don't even have time for a long walk, and you haven't wanted to commit to an exercise program, these ankle weights are one way to get started without even having to think about it. Wear the ankle weights when you're shopping, or doing other activities, and it's a bit like "set it and forget it."

The brainchild behind these user-friendly products are Annie Ulicheny and Kimberly Koelle. Both women are sty at home moms who love fitness, and want to encourage other women to be fit, even those who think they don't have the time to take care of themselves.

Banglz are not going to be the total answer for a holistic fitness program, but they are a way to get in a little healthy exercise that you won't hardly feel, and you don't even have to think about. Everyone has time for that. Give Banglz for the holidays, and you are giving a gift that truly can make a difference in someone's life. I'm thinking of giving Banglz to all the female couch potatoes I know, to make their 2010, the healthiest and best year ever. And if you aren't doing anything good for yourself these days, get off the couch and order some Banglz...then get moving!

Visit the FitnessUWear Web Site for more information, more styles, and to order

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. The photos here are copyrighted and may not be used or copied in any form without permission. The original, high definition photos are available. For inquiries Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Ces photos sont garanties les droits d'auteur et ne peuvent être employées ou copiées sous n'importe quelle forme sans permission. Elles sont également à basse résolution pour le Web. Les photos originales sont disponibles. Si vous voulez les employer, enquérez-vous svp : advicesisters-à-advicesisters-point-filet これらの写真は著作権で保護されて、あらゆる形態で許可なしで使用されるか、またはコピーされないかもしれない。 それらは網のためにまた低分解能である。 元の写真は利用できる。 それらを使用したいと思ったら尋ねなさい: advicesisters advicesisters点網Tesis fotografías área copyrighted and may not Be Used ahora bien copied en any form without permiso. They are also low-resolution for the web. The original fotografías área available. If you want to use them, please inquire: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net 이 사진은 저작권 소유 이고 어떤 모양든지에서 허가 없이 사용되거나 베껴지지 않을지도 모른다. 그들은 또한 웹을 위해 low-resolution 이다. 본래 사진은 유효하다. 당신이 그(것)들을 이용하고 싶은 경우에, 사문하십시오: advicesisters 에 advicesisters 점 그물If you like this blog, bookmark it, or why not just subscribe to it, and/or visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/

Liquid Metal Spring 2010 Runway Show Report NYFW

Sergio Gutierrez's Liquid Metal Runway show at the Metropolitan Pavilion featured unusual, eye-catching accessories and fashions created with metal mesh. His classic designs are perfect for accessorizing just about any outfit, and in an time when statement accessories, rule, this designer is a perfect match for every personality. Guitierrez's mesh creations adorn everything from camisoles and jeans, to dresses and of course, jewelery.


This accessories line gives metal mesh an entirely new meaning, with accessories that can enrobe you literally, from head to toe. For the Spring 2010 show Sergio selected swingy metal vests and camisoles, shoes, handbags, and gorgeous leather jackets, all created with his signature, metal mesh accents. A few pieces were 100% mesh, including one dress made entirely of silver mesh that Gutierrez said weighed more than 50 pounds. But the majority of the 29 offerings on the runway had that kind of glamour and rock star quality that was very wearable and beautiful.

Everything Sergio creates is built from metal mesh. He melds mesh and technique to make pieces that are beloved by women everywhere. These items are not just for show, they really get worn. They're timeless enough so that they're never thrown in a closet or drawer after the season ends. Sergio told me that people collect his pieces, season after season. "Sometimes women want to replace something," says Sergio." "Women chase me down and ask me where they can get a replacement for something they lost, or that they damaged...my collection is not seasonal. It is meant to be something classic that you wear forever," he adds.

Melissa Menounos being interviewed prior to the show. She sat opposite me in the front row and seemed genuinely interested in what was happening on the runway. I have seen so many celebrities checking email or texting or chatting with seat-mates...how rude! But Melissa, was really in the moment!

Check out my coverage of Backstage Beauty for the Liquid Metal Show

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. None of this content may be legally used or copied without written permission. Photos are low-resolution for the web. The original photos are available for sale. For more information E-Mail: advicesisters@advicesisters.net If you like this blog, visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters/.

Conair's mighty MiniPRO® 3/4" Ceramic Steam Straightener

Recently, I got caught in a huge rain storm without an umbrella. I'd just my my hair dry and straight a few hours ago, but by the time I got the the restaurant and dried off, my hair had turned into what it really wants to be: a mess of thick, wavy, almost ringlets. Some might like the "Annie" look, but it's not for me! I didn't want to wash and re-dry my hair all over again, so I reached for the latest in my arsenal of hair-straightening helpers: Conair's mighty MiniPRO® 3/4" Ceramic Steam Straightener srp. $22.99.

This striking, bright red metallic mini flat iron has 3/4" plates, not quite the standard 1" and not the thin 1/2" plate. The former really is too bulky to carry with you, and the latter is a great touch-up tool, but is laborious to use on long, thick, curly hair if you really need heavy duty straightening. This 3/4 mini is light and small enough to pop into a handbag, but it can tackle larger hair straightening jobs faster and easier. Like the littlest of the three bears said: "it's juuuust right!"

The Conair Mini Pro has so many features, for so little cost, you will fall in love with it. For starters, it has ceramic technology. The plates glide across your hair without tugging, distributing heat evenly so your hair gets silkier and smoother, faster, and eliminates damaging hot spots. The technology also helps to make hair look shiny, and reduce frizz. But this Mini Pro has something even better: a tiny reservoir holds water that goes through conditioning steam vents to add moisture and shine. The steam helps keep your smooth style going over 60% longer claims the literature. So far, so good!

There is a little comb that you can add as an attachment, to keep hair taut while straightening. That is a little thing that's a major plus if your hair is really curly and/or thick. Other advantages of this mini straightener is that it heats up quickly in about 30 seconds. As on many minis, the heat isn't adjustable, but there's also an on-off slide bar that lights up so you know the unit is on, and an automatic adjustment for dual voltage, so you never have to struggle with it when you travel. A zippered (with an adorable heart and lock pull-tag), heat-resistant pouch, in coated red and white floral canvas, let's you fix your hair and stow the iron safetly, without waiting for it to cool down. There's also a limited two-year warranty.

I try a lot of hair appliances for this blog, and my What Works columns but I've found myself reaching for this Conair Mini Pro most often these days. I am taking it on weekends, and on vacation, and using it at home, too. But the mini straightener is also nicely boxed in hard-sided clear plastic for gift-giving. All of the straightener's benefits, the red color with carry bag, and the price, make it a perfect holiday gift for any woman.

Stock up now for the holidays, and spent your time actually enjoying December! Visit the Conair Online Store for more details and ordering information

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. The photos here are copyrighted and may not be used or copied in any form without permission. The original, high definition photos are available. For inquiries Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Ces photos sont garanties les droits d'auteur et ne peuvent être employées ou copiées sous n'importe quelle forme sans permission. Elles sont également à basse résolution pour le Web. Les photos originales sont disponibles. Si vous voulez les employer, enquérez-vous svp : advicesisters-à-advicesisters-point-filet これらの写真は著作権で保護されて、あらゆる形態で許可なしで使用されるか、またはコピーされないかもしれない。 それらは網のためにまた低分解能である。 元の写真は利用できる。 それらを使用したいと思ったら尋ねなさい: advicesisters advicesisters点網Tesis fotografías área copyrighted and may not Be Used ahora bien copied en any form without permiso. They are also low-resolution for the web. The original fotografías área available. If you want to use them, please inquire: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net 이 사진은 저작권 소유 이고 어떤 모양든지에서 허가 없이 사용되거나 베껴지지 않을지도 모른다. 그들은 또한 웹을 위해 low-resolution 이다. 본래 사진은 유효하다. 당신이 그(것)들을 이용하고 싶은 경우에, 사문하십시오: advicesisters 에 advicesisters 점 그물If you like this blog, bookmark it, or why not just subscribe to it, and/or visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/

My Zerona The Zerona Laser Update - The Final Treatment--or it it?

I had my last Zerona treatment, of six, this morning. I went there feeling a bit downcast, because I could tell that I didn't get the astounding results that some people have claimed. As I mentioned to you last time I blogged about the Zerona laser treatments, I did talk to Dr. Ungaro about this, and he and I are planning to get together for another consultation, very soon. If he feels that there are things I might be able to do to speed up the results, I may try the laser, again.

That's the bad news, but the good news is that I followed everything that I was supposed to do to help make the laser more effective. Although I'm literally salivating over the thought of a sandwich, because I haven't had any bread and very few carbs for two whole weeks, I did really watch my diet. I have been clearly reminded that what you eat really does have an effect on your body. I have been drinking a lot more water, and I've been really careful (and thoughtful) about what I'm eating. And, the nutrients that Dr. Ungaro prescribed for me really did help me get through fashion week and the following two weeks, feeling pretty good. I am sure that all of this has helped me to jump-start a more mindful and healthy lifestyle. I'm also sure that if I wasn't motivated by the laser treatments, I wouldn't have done a thing to make enhance my health!

And, there's more good news: although I did NOT lose the average 6 inches, I lost a little under 3 inches, overall. That might not be showing the laser's capabilities at it's best, but for me, close to three inches isn't something to sniff about! I can see that I'm less puffy, and my pants fit just a little bit looser. The change isn't dramatic, but then again, without the laser and the accompanying, healthy activities I wouldn't have lost anything.

By the way, before I forget: Dr. Ungaro has a good blog: http://www.betterbodysolutions.blogspot.com/ He blogs about all sorts of interesting, thought-provoking things. I recommend that you check it out, even if you're not interested in the Zerona laser treatments. After all, Dr. Ungaro does more in his practice than just help people shrink their fat cells!

I recently received a FLIP video camera, and was eager to try it out, so I shot a very short video of what I've been seeing, every time I walk into the treatment room. Many of you have seen professional versions of laser videos, but this is through my eyes. I welcome your comments on the video, my treatment, questions, etc. Just leave them in the COMMENTS section.

My Zerona laser journey is finished...for the moment. But there is more to come, so please keep reading my blog. Like Dr. Ungaro, I blog about more than just my quest to reduce inches! Thank you for your interest, and I hope you enjoy my other posts, too!

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos & video by Alison Blackman. The text, video and photos shown are copyrighted and may not be used or copied in any form without permission. If you like this blog, bookmark it, or why not just subscribe to it, and/or visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/

SuperSmooth Collection By Pureology Pampers Color-Treated Hair

One of the not so beautiful side effects of using hair color is that sometimes, the chemicals can make hair look dry and strip it of natural shine. To keep your color and make hair look healthy and shiny again, there's help, from Pureology. Their SuperSmooth line of products helps to alleviate some of the damage hair color and other saboteurs have for your hair.

SuperSmoth is the first Pureology system to feature a new, heat protective, ThermalAntiFadeComplex. This has natural sugars that form a protective barrier against heat styling damage that can sull and damage color-treated hair even more. It also has UVA/UVB full spectrum sunscreens to protect your color again fading, with Heliogenol and Vitamins C & E plus frizz-fighters that make dull, dry hair even more susceptible to sucking in moisture.

The four products in the collection include: SuperSmooth Shampoo, and SuperSmooth Conditioner; a Relaxing Hair Masque (to deeply nourish and smooth); and a Smoothing Elixer (a leave-in treat). The Shampoo and the Conditioner lather beautifully, and wash out easily, leaving hair already feeling silky (even before you dry and style it). Key ingredients include Camellia and sesame oil, organic shea butter, and organic geranium to help soften and smooth the cuticle surface, so hair stays conditioned and less prone to fly-aways.

Pureology products are known for natural ingredients, and a green approach to hair care. I appreciate theor concentrated, sulfate and salt-free formulas. I tried all four products and the results were impressive. I can choose so many things for personal use, but this new, Super Smooth collection, is my latest favorite....one of the very best I have tried in a long time. The easy to use, high quality products featuring luxurious, organic, botanicals; 25% post consumer recyclable bottles, and the fact that Pureology products are 100% vegan, using no animal products or by-products, makes these extra special.

Pureology products will genuinely transform your hair! Check out the Official Pureology Web Site for more information and to find an authorized salon near you.

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. The photos here are copyrighted and may not be used or copied in any form without permission. The original, high definition photos are available. For inquiries Email: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net Ces photos sont garanties les droits d'auteur et ne peuvent être employées ou copiées sous n'importe quelle forme sans permission. Elles sont également à basse résolution pour le Web. Les photos originales sont disponibles. Si vous voulez les employer, enquérez-vous svp : advicesisters-à-advicesisters-point-filet これらの写真は著作権で保護されて、あらゆる形態で許可なしで使用されるか、またはコピーされないかもしれない。 それらは網のためにまた低分解能である。 元の写真は利用できる。 それらを使用したいと思ったら尋ねなさい: advicesisters advicesisters点網Tesis fotografías área copyrighted and may not Be Used ahora bien copied en any form without permiso. They are also low-resolution for the web. The original fotografías área available. If you want to use them, please inquire: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net 이 사진은 저작권 소유 이고 어떤 모양든지에서 허가 없이 사용되거나 베껴지지 않을지도 모른다. 그들은 또한 웹을 위해 low-resolution 이다. 본래 사진은 유효하다. 당신이 그(것)들을 이용하고 싶은 경우에, 사문하십시오: advicesisters 에 advicesisters 점 그물If you like this blog, bookmark it, or why not just subscribe to it, and/or visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/

Dior's Holiday Makeup Looks Are Luxe and Festive

Give what you love, the saying goes. The gift I'd most like to get, let alone give, is something from Dior Beauty. The Dior holiday collection is full of jewel-toned, shimmery goodies that will make your holidays merry and sparkling, even if it's just an ordinary day. And, at least one of the following is a must-have for the office party and day/night looks:

Let's get to the must-have gift, first: The Dior Cannage Palettes. There's the Dior Red and Dior Black Cannage Lip Palettes $40.00 and there's one for eyes: the Dior Black Cannage Eye Palette $40.00 This eye palette is going to elicit oohs and aaahs from every woman around you when you take it out to "touch up." It's the cutest, most coveted compact ever: a black patent-leather square with Dior's iconic quilting, from which dangles a large, silver, Dior "D" just like the ones on those famous handbags! Inside the mirrored compact are four rectangles of shimmery,super-silky shadow in soft brown, peach, and copper, featuring an quilted embossing. There's also a glam, non-embossed gold highlighter in Dior's iridescent eyeshadow formula. A dual-tipped sponge applicator with silver handle completes the compact. I can't think of anyone who wouldn't love this! If you want to be the one she remembers fondly, give her one of these palettes.

And for yourself? Put your best face forward and make a luminous base for all the other products you'll be using, with fabulous Diorskin Nude Natural Glow Sculpting Makeup $50.00 Refills $40.00 . Inside a holiday-ready, shiny silver compact with interior mirror and nice powder brush, is a foundation striped with three bands of color: one to sculpt, one to highlight and one that's the unifying foundation color. You can use all three together, or individually. Although I'm not much into contouring, it's going to be big this season. You can also use the contour as a blush, too. The Foundation compact is available in five, creamy, sheer, shades: #20 Beige Praline, #32 Sable Rose, #33 The passion, #40 Caramel Dore, and#50 Cafe Moka, the powder is super-fine so it floats over fine lines and wrinkles instead of sitting heavily in them, making your skin look polished, not at all dry or mask-like. This product also has Dior's exclusive Mineralized Active Water technology and semi-precious Rhodolite, along with other active ingredients such as Sensiline, Sericin, and Vitamins C & E to revitalize, balance, and hydrate your skin. Use this foundation and your skin might actually improve, as you beautify it every day! It even has SPF 10 to protect you (marginally) from the sun's damaging rays. I really love this product. It looks gorgeous, and the foundation wears so well, even a hot night in a club won't ruin your look. This is the one to treat yourself with.

When it comes to eye looks for the holidays, nothing less than all-out glam works on your eyes. Dior's Cristal Boreale Holiday look will make you feel like a rock star, with jewel-toned, light-reflecting. super-shimmery shadows that are so beautiful just as-is, you may be tempted just to gaze into the compact, and not wear them (but do wear them). If you want to treat yourself or a makeup-loving friend to something really special, the 5-Colour Iridescent Eyeshadow in Smoky Crystal $56.00 #809 offer five shimmer shadows (pink, gold, bronze, pewter and silver) embossed with a "crystal" pattern, in crystal-shaped pans, housed under the roof of the iconic, blue, mirrored, Dior compact. These super-shimmers light up your eyes with just a touch of your finger or applicator. They're the modern answer to all the glitter makeup that used to be just for special occasions. You needn't use a heavy hand to get that "spotlight on your lids" effect. A little goes a long way. If you just one one, special shadow, you can't go wrong with Cristal Boreal #012 Silver Gem $20.00. This shimmering silver works with every complexion and works with everything you plan to wear for a special night out. TIP: If you're a little shy about wearing too much shimmer, just use a light touch and blend it out. You'll still have that "spotlight" effect, without the metallic edge. Finish any lid look with a colored Liner such as Dior's Style Liner in Sparkling Purple $174 $20.00 . This soft, deep plum works wonderfully on light shadows. I like it particularly well with the Silver and gold colors in the 5-Colour Palette, but you'll find plenty of other shadows to wear it with as well.

There are a few other products in the Dior Holiday Collection, including a stunning, Cristal Boreale Pendant sparkling with Swarovski crystals and a pink crystal lip gloss. But these are all limited edition, so hurry to your closest Dior Beauty Counter starting NOW!


Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. For permissions, suggestions or comments email: advicesisters(at)advicesisters(dot)net --- If you like this blog, visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net Visit the Advice Sisters "What Works" Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html for more reviews.

Backstage Beauty at Christian Siriano Runway Spring 2010

Christian Siriano's Mediterranean vacation-inspired Spring 2010 runway show, hair and makeup were relatively simple, especially when compared to Siriano's "Goldfinger" look of last season. For Spring, the look features a sleek, sophisticated, ponytail look, and nude/bronze face.

Polly Osmond for Victorias Secret Beauty, created the makeup look. She described the process of producing this nude and bronzed, beachy look in detail (getting a beachy, no-makeup look isn't easy unless you're a pro, or you practice at home). But basically, she started by creating flawless, creamy skin with just a hint of highlighter on the cheek bones. She added contouring and bronzer on top of this polished "canvas." Osmond chose a soft taupe eye shadow as a lid color, with some clear gloss applied over it, and also some bronzer. She lined the inside of the eyes with a white pearl liner, finishing the look with black mascara. On the lips, Osmond added a pale lip gloss ( Christian Siriano 's already sold-out makeup collection for Victoria's Secret in "Embrace"). When finished, Osmond declared the look: "very Amalphi Coast."

Polly Osmond used makeup from Victorias Secret Beauty. If you haven't tried their makeup yet, you will be surprised! The products truly are runway-worthy and high performance, but affordable. The makeup products from Victoria's Secret Beauty used for Christian Sirianos show are available now, so you can re-create this look today, and be ahead of the trend.

The sleek and somewhat severe, slicked-back pony, was created by Antoinette Beenders, VP Global Director for Aveda. She said she was inspired by Siriano's watery, ocean-inspired creations, and wanted the hair to coordinate with that look. Beenders pulled hair into a sleek ponytail and layered pin curls on top. Then, the ponytail was roughed up a bit so that there was texture -- wavy and straight. She used Aveda Air Control Hair Spray and Pure Abundance Hair Spray to set the look in place. The finished look reminds me of a modern mermaid!

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ADVICE SISTERS COVERAGE OF THE SPRING 2010 CHRISTIAN SIRIANO RUNWAY SHOW

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. None of this content may be legally used or copied without written permission. Please respect my copyright and don't steal my photos! These photos are low-resolution for the web. The original photos are available for sale. For more information E-Mail: Ces photos sont garanties les droits d'auteur et ne peuvent être employées ou copiées sous n'importe quelle forme sans permission. Elles sont également à basse résolution pour le Web. Les photos originales sont disponibles. Si vous voulez les employer, enquérez-vous svp : advicesisters-à-advicesisters-point-filet これらの写真は著作権で保護されて、あらゆる形態で許可なしで使用されるか、またはコピーされないかもしれない。 それらは網のためにまた低分解能である。 元の写真は利用できる。 それらを使用したいと思ったら尋ねなさい: advicesisters advicesisters点網Tesis fotografías área copyrighted and may not Be Used ahora bien copied en any form without permiso. They are also low-resolution for the web. The original fotografías área available. If you want to use them, please inquire: advicesisters-at-advicesisters-dot-net 이 사진은 저작권 소유 이고 어떤 모양든지에서 허가 없이 사용되거나 베껴지지 않을지도 모른다. 그들은 또한 웹을 위해 low-resolution 이다. 본래 사진은 유효하다. 당신이 그(것)들을 이용하고 싶은 경우에, 사문하십시오: advicesisters 에 advicesisters 점 그물If you like this blog, bookmark it, or why not just subscribe to it, and/or visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/

Christian Siriano Runway Spring 2010 New York Fashion Week

About an hour before his runway show was about to begin, I captured designer Christian Siriano backstage, pensively staring at his own creations. The Season 4 Project Runway winner is just 23 years old! He began designing at just 13 years old and attended the Baltimore School for the Arts and the American Intercontinental University in London, where he interned with punk legend Vivienne Westwood, and with Alexander McQueen. Fast forward a few years later, and he's not just won Project Runway, but has several Fashion Week Shows behind him. Coverage of his 2009 Fall/Winter Runway Show appeared on the Advice Sisters Web Site, including a feature on backstage beauty and exclusive video of the show.

Christian has already designed for a growing list of celebrity clients including: Victoria Beckham; Heidi Klum; Mena Suvari, Vanessa Williams, Becki Newton, Maggie Grace, Tori Spelling, Shailene Woodley, Katrina Bowden, Whoopi Goldberg, Lady GaGa, Pink, Estelle, Nicole Scherzinger and the Pussycat Dolls...just to name a few.


(these two photos by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz)

36 looks strutted down the runway featuring bold colors and prints, and very dramatic silhouettes, textures and detail. The inspiration for this collection was the ocean, with wavy, silky, flowing designs that were also young and modern.

The fabrics ran the gamut from smooth to textured, and, as with many of the Spring collections, key colors were sand, nude, and blush, and beige, and then brilliant colored prints. The handbags and the stilettos were all designed by Mr. Siriano (Christian Siriano for Payless). These had cutouts and zippers and dangerous-looking chains on the toes. Accessories also included huge picture hats by Heather Huey, large, jeweled Swarovski crystal collars (designed by Christian Siriano), and chunky metal bangles and fish-scale earrings, created by Robert Lee Morris.

Siriano is already a master of draping as you can see from the photo I shot of some of his dresses, backstage. Also check out the attention to detail: matching shoes that Siriano designed, to go with just one of the spectacular finale dresses! The finale gowns would be just the thing for a Tilda Swinton, or even a young, rock princess, to wear to a premier or awards ceremony. Like Siriano himself, you have to have confidence and attitude to pull off these clothes!


Success like Christian Siriano's doesn't come without a lot of hard work and worry. Siriano had to grow up fast. I took the photo on the left backstage at the Spring 2010 runway show, while the photo of Christian I took for the Fall 2009 runway show backstage is almost the same pose, but Christian looks somehow, years younger.



For more on Christian Siriano's Spring 2010 Runway Show, check out the Advice Sisters Backstage Beauty feature!

a video of the Christian Siriano Spring 2010 Runway Show

Copyright © Alison Blackman Dunham. All rights reserved. The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. All text & photos by Alison Blackman. PLEASE DO NOT STEAL MY TEXT OR PHOTOS! None of this content may be legally used or copied without written permission. Photos are low-resolution for the web. The original photos are available for sale. For more information E-Mail: advicesisters@advicesisters.net If you like this blog, visit The Advice Sisters web site: http://www.advicesisters.net/