Happy New Year! and Divas in the News..

Hi Darlings:

Sorry for not being able to write in the last few days. My computer was being repaired. I can't believe I almost missed writing before the New Year! I hope you have something to wear...

I just want to wish you all the best in the New Year and say a warm thanks for visiting my blog everyday and allowing me to share my thoughts, perspectives, likes and dislikes with you! Since I am leaving tomorrow morning for NYC and will be away from my computer I want to now wish you all the best in the New Year!

Hugs and besos.

Here are some of the 2007 happenings before the year is over...

1.) Everyone thinks too many celebs were misbehaving this year! (NY Times) (Wash Post)

2.) The Monster That Ate Entertainment. (CNN)

3.) The Top 10 Movies, DVDs etc...(TIME)

4.) Fun Cocktails! (In Style)

5.) Lucky How To: Drop Waist Coat (Lucky Mag)

I Got Minxed ... and So Can You!

Darlings:

Hope you all had a fantabulous holiday and wishing you all the best in 2008!

Last week I was contacted by the folks at Minx Nails who offered me the opportunity to try their product! They wanted to know if I would want a complimentary manicure from Natasha Ray of the mobile spa - Dainty As She Wanna Be in DC. Like yeah! Did not need to think twice about that one...

I have been curious about Minx Nails ever since they’ve become Beyonce’s favorite Fall/Winter nail go to product. And I’ve also been curious about the Mobile Spa so whadya know... the perfect combo. I set up to meet Natasha expecting to be pampered and delighted.

We scheduled an early morning visit at Natasha’s nail lounge on Capitol Hill at 709 D, SE. Right off the bat I liked the idea of one-to-one attention. She even set up a DVD player with Sex In The City but although I love love love SITC I knew I would be spending most of the time conversing.

Before applying Minx Nails Natasha gave me a manicure using her signature line of natural products. On my hands she used a cranberry/fig scrub and honey/almond/shea butter lotion. The final step of the manicuring process was different because instead of applying moisture she had to remove it from the nail bed so the Minx Nail coverlet could stay on the nail.

She took out the product. I had many options. I was told that you can customize the coverlets to match a dress, party theme or color scheme. But went with a funky design instead of the gold metal I’ve seen on Beyonce’s nails. I was feeling adventurous.

(Here are some more ways to use the product...)She then applied heat from the blow dryer to the coverlet. Afterwards, she stuck a coverlet on each of my nails. Then she used a blow dryer to ensure the product was sealed to the nail. Finally, she trimmed off the extra parts so that coverlets shaped my nail beds.

And the best part was that right after the manicure, I stuck my hands in my purse and then for a moment panicked only to realize that there would be no smudging. That never happens to me! To remove just use blow dryer to loosen the coverlet and peel off from side-to-side. Presto... There should be no damaged nail beds like with acrylics! Umm...think no chemicals, totally green and durable! Loves it...

Finished product:
Just in case you are curious: Natasha’s can be contacted at either natasha.ray@msdainty.com and 202-538-0142. Cost: $45 plus travel if she comes to you. BTW, Natasha says that many of her clients are men who want a mani/pedi but not in public ... gift ideas!

Hugs and happy holidays!

Stay tuned for a giveaway on this product...

Diva Musings: Happy Holidays!

Divas:

This weekend I decided to do some pre-Christmas cleaning. I got really into this project and decided to finally look through boxes of mementos, docs and files that I have been carrying with me throughout the years with every move. Ye gads! So I began looking through these boxes smiling at thank you and birthday cards, finding money that my parents sent me years ago in an envelope ... yes ... go figure. I too scratched my head at that one... extra shopping $$. Amid the good and exciting finds were also old bills and reminders of experiences that to be frank I would have rather forgotten. Nothing too alarming but events that gave me pause then and now. Literally, I wondered why I had been carrying around these things with me for so long. Not only were they taking up space and cluttering my basement but they are life clutterers as well. So needless to say I thought that since the NYE to me means moving full speed ahead to the future I want - getting rid of some of this stuff would be a good start. Funny the things we take with us consciously and subconsciously. And to be truthful I actually felt lighter as I opened the trash can lid.

Hugs and all the best in 2008!

Divas in the News and more ...

Darlings:

I won't even go there about the holidays drawing near or the latest fad of celebs getting pregnant being out of control. Remember like three years ago when no one in Hollywood got preggers or if they did it was not a photo op moment ... now its seems like being preggers has become the new va-jay-jay shot. Go figure!

1.) Catfights were really taken to a new level at the Puerto Rico beauty pageants! Miss Puerto Rico was not lying. (Lossip)

2.) Are they are aren't day? Rumors (again) of Beyonce and Jay-Z wedding. Maybe tatoos on the finger will be in vogue in 2008. (Celebslam)

3.) Eva Longoria Parker (mouthful) has a new movie out?!@$ Aparently she might be surprised too! (dlisted)

4.) Powerful hubbie unfashionable for Hill. It's all about ... (WashingtonPost)

5.) The ultimate Diva is now the oldest Royal Diva. (Yahoo News)

We Are Simply Smellable ...

Hi Darlings:

So I am watching the reruns for one of my fav shows the other night. I must say I am getting really tired of reruns ... yes ... no new episodes anymore because of the WGA strike. (Aside: I hope this crazy situation is resolved before the New Years) So, anywho I began to pay close attention to the commercials on TV and I must say that I am positively surprised that Americans aren't smelling more like roses or any of the other flowers used to make all the perfumes ... ummm violet, gardenias etc etc. Yikes! As I type Gwen Stefani's L is on the tube. Cute outfit Gwen....These commercials are everywhere! Click here to watch ...

Mariah Carey, Paris, Britney, Sarah Jessica Parker and many more have their own scents or soon will. Amazing! And if they are not hawking their own scents they are in ads for Chanel like Keira Knightley, overwhelming the market like they do the tabloids. Even with all the hoopla over these celebs and their scents I am still married to my favorite, non-celebrity endorsed Oscar by Oscar de la Renta body lotion (~$32.29 for 6.8 oz on fragrance.net).



I have tried other scents but its my favorite! And you know what they say ... once a compliment goes to your head there is no return. I've just gotten too many compliments wearing this scent to turn my back on it. Either way I know I am not in the minority in not buying the celeb endorsed brands because the perfume industry is not doing as well as expected.

Either way celeb perfume adds are entertaining and creative!

Ciao bellas!

Be Bella Than You Are Today...

Hi Loves,

Today was the Christmas party at work and needless to say I was doubtful as to whether or not my inner holiday cheer would show up. BUT low and behold once I decided to wear my red roman inspired dress with my green wool blazer my mood was transformed and I was (cliche)overcome with joy. All in all it was a typical work event but with more food and fun.

My dilemma for the day happened on my way home. So, I spot cute guy on the train. And right away I realize that I should have retouched my lip gloss before heading out ... le gasp. So I am seating in the train car trying to discretely lick my lips to a seductive shine. I really don't think this worked at all and digging in my purse for the tube of lip goob in a "cool" fashion was not the least bit productive! Yikes!

What I need is Bella's powder room.
The cutest petite makeup attache for only $32!! Its organized and efficient - perfect for taking to or keeping at work so you will never forget to retouch on the way out. How fantabulous! Divas it might be too late to buy as a gift but never too late to buy for yourself! My new rule...love the holidays.

Ciao Bellas,
Hugs

For Sophistication ... Go SHORT!

Darlings:

So at work last week I looked up while walking through the elevator bank and made eye contact with the other Diva on the floor! I gasped. Her hair was short (how mine used to be); her boots - 3+ inches (the height I enjoy); and her outfit one word=together. I on the other hand had chosen comfortable and flats that day. Yikes!! I had to say her outfit was great - admiring as one Diva to the next. But for the rest of the week the flats stayed home and it was on...well at least in my mind! :) Needless to say, those of you who know me know that after years of short hair (few inches long) its shoulder length and beyond from here and out! I loved my hair short and appreciated the ease of maintenance but in my life right now there is nothing like a cute ponytail or easy flip - useful for effective flirting! loves it.

Well on a stylistic front it is good to see that Divas everywhere are refreshing their looks by cutting their hair (ahem ... removing their weaves) to create a sharp and simple sophistication. For example, Katie Holmes instantly became a women and fashionista worth noting and no longer Dawson's sidekick gal pal when she recently cut her hair. Star Jones went from tranny to take me seriously Diva Divine. Take a look at other transformations... Viva la BOB!

Ciao Darlings!

Divas in the News and more ...

Darlings,

Who can believe we have just 9 more shopping days to go before Christmas! The more I think about it the more I've come to the conclusion this has been a December on steroids. Its seems like Halloween was just yesterday and today I am forced to think about X-mas and New Years! Well I am taking it all in stride, determined to finish my Christmas gifts - craft projects - on time! It's got to get done. Well the best part of the holidays so far has been the many holiday parties (did I say NYE is right around the corner - Yeah - and so is the resolution on working out more!!!) Gotta make another batch of my award winning bread pudding! (look out Martha!) Write me if you want the recipe!

Here are some clips to keep you focused on this rainy Sunday!

Ciao Darlings.

1.) Perez Hilton: Easily the Ugliest Man in Hollywood - Inside and Out (Lossip)

2.) Vivica Fox asks bloggers "Baby, what did I do to you?" (Stereohyped) hmmmm....

3.) Stripper poles in the NY subway ... no way! (gothamist) Note to self: next time in NYC bring Lysol spray and hand sanitizer!

4.) Will Smith finally gets his hands dirty (ENEWSBUZZ)

5.) Ashley Simpson/Barbie - Barbie/Ashley Simpson - take your pick (boy culture)

Kate Moss ... Furrific Hanger

Hi Divas:

I'll be the first to say that while Kate Moss is not the best role model for ... ummm anyone she can definitely be seen as a trendsetter who takes risks. Her coat game is on this winter! Eventhough I would not make some of the choices she has I can definitely say that the choices she makes are unique and at times cutting edge. Here are what we've seen her in so far....

Lets just hope PETA does not get wind of her choices!

Ciao Bellas!

Hugs ... its Wednesday.

Red ... the Color of the hour.

Hi Divas:

Seems like red has become the Fall accent color of the hour. It is showing up everywhere!

Katherine Heigl uses red in jewelry accents and her purse. For budget versions of the jewelry try Forever 21 or Target and you can find a similar version of the purse at baghaus.com.

Nicole Richie recently accentuated an all black outfit with a red beret! It was a darling touch that is so divine I want to go buy one now! We all can get the look for less at Urban Outfitters.

Red lipstick after laying low for many years since its advent in the 80's is becoming vogue again. However, for a few tips: when wearing red lips tone down the eyes and cheeks. Its a statement color so over applying makeup can put you on the verge of gaudy.

Ciao bellas. Have a great day!

Divas in the news and more...

Hi Divas:


Art Basel is definitely THE event to go to if you enjoy art and love to be seen. This event is currently happening in South Beach, Miami. Check out .... Big Walls to Fill - Art Basel report (Washington Post)



Ummm...yeah men can be Divas too!! Hello.... Eyeliner for men?! Pencil these guys in. (also in the Washington Post)

Jane Fonda knows all to well some nicknames are not only hard to swallow but also hard to shed. Jane: Unforgiven (NY Post)

Fashion Gifts...come look and see what is all the rage. (NY Post)

Boxing Matches are becoming the fashion place to see and be seen. Brad and Angelina are so aware of that! (d listed)

Ciao bellas.

Have a lovely Monday!!

Diva Musings: Friendship

Only a good friend will spend 6 hours of a Saturday helping you pick out the perfect cocktail dress. Friends are essential to sanity and sometimes the cause of our insanity. Athough the necessary foundation for any relationship worth its salt, friendship can be the initial goal that shatters relationships of a romantic nature. Why? Sometimes we just expect too much too soon.

Ciao loves.

Diva Divine! New Sex in the City movie

Divas the trailer is finally here!! Too bad we have to wait until May 2008!! :(

Divas in the News and more

Hi Hons:

1.) Russian Divas are definitely making their mark on the international scene according to the NY Times. In Russia its all about the children of famous Russians making the tabloid news and less about the folies of wayward and confused actresses like our own Lindsay Lohan and Britney Spears.

2.) Fashion finds: Kate Hudson. (I'm Not Obsessed)

3.) Tyra Banks will be jumping out of a cake any minute now. (Evil Beet)

4.) Carrie Underwood diet secrets. (F Listed) {check out her fabulous red dress}

5.) Really? For Hanukkah? Now that's just ducky! (Washington Post)

Great DC Find - Park at Fourteenth

Hi Divas:

Some friends and I were on our way to an event the other day. When we arrived at the location our hopes of seeing the show were dashed because it was already sold out and we were about 45 minutes early. Not feeling defeated - we decided to head on to the next spot which was The Park at Fourteenth. This place is super-spectacular. The vision of a '70s era club designer - there is traditional wood paneling, contemporary lounge look combined with upscale furniture Definitely nothing currently on the scene in DC. Each floor has its own signature drink - they are also able to make whatever cocktail you like. Since we started on the first floor we sipped the yummy and refreshing Betty. Each of the four floors has a drink named after a former first lady. The scene is diverse and diva chic.

Definitely a place to see and be seen. Wear something nice...jeans included!

Another Great DC Find!

Ciao bellas.

Fashion Review - Spring '08

Hi Diva Socialistas:

Last week at the Corcoran DC the local Fashion Group Intl chapter had their semi-annual discussion on the latest trends in the Spring '08 fashion shows. All the fashionista darlings always seem to range from those who dress to the nines - minks and all to the students in jeans! I opted to dress up...

Its always fun seeing the trends and even more spectacular if you have been tracking the shows and they come up with the same conclusions as you. Overall the Spring trends were shown to be not only heading towards the romantic but also there is a focus on shape, transparency and prints all in a way slightly different than we've seen in the last few years. One point to note that was mentioned during the discussion is the effect the advent of the Internet has had on the fashion trend cycle. Technology brings designs to the masses at a greater speed causing the cycles of fashion to no longer be around 10 years but a lot sooner.

Here are some quick mentions:

1.) Yeohlee I loved for hair and makeup and Dior by Pat McGrath.
2.) Layering transparent fabrics (like chiffon) is great especially with the new trend of citrus colors. The layer of for example black transparent fabric over a yellow dress (Carolina Herrera) tones down the bring color and allows you to wear the hue without calling too much attention to yourself.
3.) Shape - or rather loose fitting dresses took us away from the tight fitted fabrics and designs from past years. Diane von Furstenberg, Missoni's kaftan
4.) High waisted pants - despite what was said and after being in Paris a few months ago...I don't believe this trend will last. In Paris no one was wearing highwaisted. It is such a awkward item to fit into a wardrobe.
5.) Blown up prints like paisley were refreshing (Christian LaCroix); Armani and Proenza Schouler
6.) The citrus trends (yellow, pink, orange, green) of the last two seasons is still in! Go figure...
7.) The art or statement shoe - everyone should have at least one in their closet...see last weeks post on the statement shoe.
8.) Bangles and cuffs are said to be in but for me they were never out!
9.) On the green scene - cotton is making a comeback

Overall the presentation was worthwhile and informative! Have fun with your Spring '08 wardrobes.

Ciao bellas!

Eyes Lips Face- Deal of the Week.

Hey Divas:


So I received an email from a friend about the $1 per item deal at Eyes Lips Face and makeup company that has been around for a little over a year now. I was a little skeptical about ordering because the shipping cost was about $7 but after I got over that minor deterrence I went on a shopping spree and chose 13 items. Woooweeee... thirteen whole dollars plus the seven.



Can I tell you the Angel "Super Glossy Lip Shine" is the Best clear lipstick I can remember ever buying!! I put it on and not only does it smell great (grape vanilla) but it also looks great on my lips and it is not very sticky which can interfere with intimacy. :=)

Ciao Loves!

Diva Musings!

Hi Loves:

I am sure you've noticed that at the bottom of some of the posts I have been signing out with my thoughts entitled "Carrie Bradshaw Thoughts" - usually in yellow font. Well darlings I will now call those ruminations "Diva Musings".

Diva Musing: New people come into our lives every day. New in the sense that we have not seen them before or new in that we are able to see the same friends in different ways or new in that they themselves are going through transition. Sometimes we have used our value systems to pre-judge these people building barriers that keeps us from seeing them in new ways. How do we move past our impressions of their outsides when we have our blinders on? Like a good truffle bon bon there is so much more on the inside to enjoy than the outside shell.

Boots Loving!

Divas:


As it gets colder - I cringe stepping out. My down comforter is always so much more inviting! But alas being a Diva in hiding is no fun. Looking at the boots below makes me perk up about heading out maybe they will make you happy too!


Hugs Loves!

Sam Fine Blogs!

Hi Divas:

I am sure you all know of Makeup artist extraordinaire Sam Fine. Well he has just created a beauty blog where you can learn amazing tricks like self-bleaching your eye brows. He has just started but from his vast repertoire and his amazinf coffee table beauty/makeup book I am sure the trip to his blog will be worth it for the great tips!!!!

Here is on the left in a recent Ebony magazine article (just surprised Pat McGrath was not featured) ...


Ciao Bellas!