Sun Will Come Out...Tomorrow...

I am recovering at home and I've been off the blog circuit for a few days while I was hospitalized. While I'd like to say that I am just a big freakin' cup of sunshine right now, I'm more like a cold, dark cup of day old coffee at the moment, and I'm really not ready to discuss anything that's happened to me over the past few days, because truth be told, all I feel is like my whole world is overcast and gloomy.

The only consolation I have is that yesterday, I had my Mom at the hospital, as she has been everyday with me, and she made me feel much better when I've felt my worst. I had my "big sis" April at the hospital with me, also, and since I'm mentioning the high points of my day, I must say that she, too, had a very tough week, and still managed to walk into my hospital room clothed in super cute clothes and, of course, to die for ballet flats.

Her flats were leopard, and they were not only flattering and chic, they reminded me of something a celebrity would slip on her feet. Just having her there, made my day so much better, and when we gave each other a hug, and I cried, for her, and for both of us, I knew she understood.

Even though I'm still feeling a little somber, fashion seems to make my day, time and again.

The sun will come out tomorrow...

Hopefully.

xoxo
LC

Evenings of Glamour

Some of my favorite memories from my childhood are the evenings when I would stay home with a sitter (usually my big brother & his girlfriend, who is now his wife) watching movies I probably was too young to be watching (and everyone wonders why I use filthy language) while I waited patiently for my parents to get home from the dances they had gone to.

My Mom belonged to a women's social club, and so there were balls and dances that they'd get dressed up to go to. I would watch my Mom get ready, sitting by her vanity and looking up at the big, long mirror as I watched her apply a darker shade of lipstick than I was used to seeing on her; I watched as she added an extra coat of mascara. She'd slip on high heels, and a pretty dress, threw lipstick, mints, and powder in her clutch, and after giving me a kiss, she was out the door with my Dad.

I remember she'd always tell me one day, I'd grow up and be able to do the same thing. She'd say, "This is the closest I'll ever get to being like a star, but you, you'll be able to experience even more." I dreamed all my childhood that I'd be able to get ready for awards shows and prep for the red carpet, but fast forward 22 years or so (give or take) and my life is far from glamorous; in fact, I think my parents had more fun at my age, and they were parents. As I write this, I am wearing little boyshorts from Victoria's Secret PINK collection, an American Apparel tank top and jeweled sandals (don't ask, I can't even explain my wardrobe choice, except that I can blog from home, praise God.)

One of the things I remember most is trying on the amazing pair of heels my Mom would always buy to go with her dresses. These reminded me so much of a pair my Mom wore once, with a black cocktail dress and pretty earrings and a silver clutch.

I still love the excitement and thrill of being able to get dressed up...but I'll always look back on those memories of being a little girl with skinny legs and tiny little feet, slipping on a pretty pair of heels...with stars in her eyes, of course.

And on most days, (minus the skinny legs and tiny feet) inside...

I'm still that little girl.

Find these heels, and a plethora of other choices, at Nordstrom stores nationwide or online at www.nordstrom.com. These babies will cost ya about $230, but keep in mind...the Half Yearly Sale is on at Nordie's, and I'm sure the selection is the best in town. Check it out for yourself today, and keep those stars in your eyes.

A Tradition of Excellence

My family has plenty of traditions. I'd like to think that the women in my family have legacies, things we leave behind, ideas, thoughts, visions, dreams, and hopes that we pass along from woman to woman. It is these things that make us a unit; these values that keep us close-knit even when the world would like to break us apart; it is this connection we have to each other that reminds us who we are and what we stand for.

Some of these traditions involve recipes, and delicious food. Some involve morals and beliefs, even our mothers' conventional or often, unconventional wisdom. They involve sitting around drinking coffee or mixed drinks or even wine and sharing the same (sometimes embellished) stories time after time. And some are more serious, not necessarily suggestions, we pass along to each other--but expectations. Like education.

All of our younger generation have attended ASU; our time at Arizona State was not only invaluable, it is something we all share, a love and time honored tradition. Being a Sun Devil meant so much more than getting a piece of paper after 4 or 5 years. It was something to be proud of. It represented toil, triumph, accomplishment. Being a Sun Devil was just as much about our hearing our mothers' voices in our ears whispering, "I know you can do it, mija," as it was our own perseverance and patting each other on the back or proofreading essays late at night for one another.

So when my youngest cousin, Priscilla (our baby!) started her journey as a Sun Devil this year, you better believe I was thrilled that she was carrying on our family tradition of excellence, at one of the finest universities in the country. She loves college life; and what's not to love? After visiting her at her dorms with April and my nephew Alex a few weeks ago, I saw all the changes happening on campus and all the developments, and it is truly beautiful. It made me even more proud to be an alumni.

It also, for some odd reason, gives me chills when I walk into Victoria's Secret to go shopping for all my sexy lingerie and found a whole wall devoted to ASU PINK merchandise. The new collection, from Victoria's Secret PINK line, is totally cute, reasonably priced, and adorably feminine...such a great way to show your spirit at an ASU game, or running around town.

One value the women in my family have passed along is pride. Having pride in one's work. Taking pride in the work you do in your community. Strengthening relationships and bonds within the family, so that our familial pride shines through, no matter where we go. Having pride as a woman to walk out of a potentially damaging situation in the workplace, or in a relationship. And having pride in all the big and even the little accomplishments we make day by day. I had that pride in myself before I even left for college at Arizona State University, but when I emerged as a college educated woman, I think I not only learned first hand what having pride really meant, I exemplified it.

Watching a DVD Priscilla created for a class that was about leadership, and passing along those values, prioritizing education as a means for achieving your goals, and hearing how she plans to pass that along to my nephew Alex, and hopefully, to my children, someday, too, meant the world to me. It meant that traditions are alive and well, and as those of us who've gone out in Maroon & Gold know, we do tradition better than anybody.



Buy your own ASU merchandise today at Victoria's Secret in the PINK collection; visit Superstition Springs Mall, Chandler Fashion Center, or San Tan Village for the best selections, or online at www.victoriassecret.com. Go Devils! ;)

The Crown Jewel of a New Generation

My colleagues and I spend a great deal of time wondering why on earth kids today don't seem to have the motivation or enthusiasm of prior generations, unless it pertains to getting tattooed, stealing cheap booze from their grandmother's liquor cabinet, or piercing, I don't know, their labias, or something.

We try our best to promote this idea of being a good citizen, being a well-rounded person, using your strengths to make something productive of your life. Instead, we are often faced with a tidal wave of apathy from our young Americans, sitting in desks (slouching, is more appropriate) with an Ipod secretly tucked in one ear, zoning us out as though we are dishing out useless information. I always thought because I wanted to be an actress, and because I'm so goddamn ADHD, and because I have a sense of humor, that being downright theatrical in front of these kids would captivate their minds and hearts and inspire them to do great things.

It's all bullshit.

There are young people who perform, who rise to the challenge, who raise the bar, who have standards and exceed even their highest expectations, and then there are those who are complacent with the idea of running home and using their allowance to buy ITunes and download the latest emo album so they can feel sorry for themselves.

Praise be to GOD, there are young people who actually inspire ME.

Cassy Saba is truly one of those people. Her family, especially her mother, Sandra, are friends of mine, and if ever you want to see beauty, grace, and class intersect, just look at these two women. Her mother was my instructor at Sincerely, Sandra Modeling and Professional Development school, and when I was just a little girl, my Mother took me there for a "charm school" type class, which inspired me to want to run in pageants, go to college, and be this extraordinary woman, all because I was in Sandra's presence. She is truly inspirational, always has been--and let's face it, you can bet I don't say that to all the girls.

Her daughter Cassy is no exception. Trained by the best, she started her jewelry business as a very young girl, and was beading up gorgeous accessories since I started college ten years ago. Since then, her business has expanded and taken off, and now she is creating gorgeous jewelry that's graced the necks of Beyonce and other celebrities--no small accomplishment for such a young girl. Cassy is not even legally able to buy alcohol, ladies and gentleman, and she's such an outstanding young lady, she's certainly not raiding her grandparents' liquor cabinets for any, either. (I would know. Her grandparents are a-maaa-zing and from my hometown.)

It's funny what a small world it is, because just a week ago, a friend of mine, the lovely and talented Brooke Pace, who's a FIDM alumni and who works for Cynthia Vincent, the extraordinary designer, posted a bulletin announcing to the world that Cassy's Sassy Jewelry would now be available in Fred Segal boutiques. Fred Segal? I thought. Why, when I was in high school, it was put on the map by Cher Horowitz in Clueless. And now, little miss Cassy has her jewelry IN FRED SEGAL?

How to die. That is remarkable.

It just goes to show that when you have a dream, a vision, and drive, anything can happen, at any age, but especially for young designers, no matter how young. People like Cassy (who's already appeared on the Montell Williams show promoting her line) are going to be the leaders and visionaries of tomorrow, especially in the fashion world, and it's my honor to highlight their achievements.

After all, one generation of stylish women have to lift up the next generation, and inspire them to do even better. I have a feeling that Cassy will be inspiring plenty of young people with her business success, and will inspire plenty of fashionistas to run out and buy pieces from her collection.

Go get 'em, girl.

For more information, visit www.cassyssassyjewelry.com, Fred Segal, or Sincerely, Sandra in Chandler, Arizona.

Good Vibrations

If any one woman in America defines the word 'recessionista,' it would be me.
Now, I know what you're thinking. "Lori, you shop more than any woman I know."

This is true. But I also clip coupons and find bargains better than any woman I know.

Items like mascara, I learned in my stint as a makeup artist which lasted several years, are a must-have beauty item that belong in any woman's makeup bag, but sometimes it's honestly not worth paying $24 for a tube of black magic that you'll have to throw out after a month or two, anyway. (Any woman who keeps mascara longer than that is asking for a nasty ass stye or eye infection. And that is not pretty, honey.)And truth be told, you can usually achieve the same look with a cheaper mascara as you can with a costly one. (My Mom swears she gets prettier, longer lashes with the pink and green tube of Maybelline mascara, a classic beauty staple, as she does with Definicils from Lancome, and I can honestly attest to the truth behind her claim.) Eyelashes are like perky boobs, ladies. You've either got 'em, or you don't. You can throw 'em in a fancier package, but no matter what, you get what you get, and you don't throw a fit.

When I clipped a $5 off a $10 purchase coupon for Ulta, coupled with their beauty deal--buy one, get one half off on all Maybelline New York products, I was super excited because I wanted to try the new Maybelline Pulse Perfection Vibrating Mascara. Since the mascara is $12, I got two tubes for $18, and then $5 off of that price. ($13 for two mascaras that work like a charm is a true bargain.)I've tried the Lancome Oscillating Mascara, in the $25 price range, and it not only failed to impress me the way the Maybelline one did, (the brush was not as thick, so my lashes were nowhere near as plump or lengthy) it also never goes on sale, ladies. Why would you waste money on something so disposable, when you can get better results with something less expensive?


On a humorous note, my Dad watched in awe as I applied makeup one day, because he heard the tiny motor in the wand of the mascara. "I thought I'd seen it all," he said, "but I'm a mechanic, and I never thought you'd put a motor close to your eye." One of my male students watched me apply it in the hallway while chatting up my female students one morning before class, and could not figure out why I'd want mascara that vibrated. He shook his head in confusion. And yet another male--a guy I was dating--said he wondered if this was a sign that women just "like things that vibrate--ha ha ha." Yeah, jackass, as a matter of fact, we do, and if this tube of mascara was just a tiny bit bigger, it could take your place in a heartbeat.



To pick up your very own tube of vibrating mascara, check out Maybelline Pulse Perfection Mascara at an Ulta store near you, Walmart, or Target. Or, you can try Lancome's more expensive version, Oscillating Mascara, at a counter near you, or at stores like Sephora, Dillards, or Macy's.

Lace & Leather

When I was a little girl, I was a Brownie Girl Scout.

Okay, you can stop laughing now. Yes, even I, the foul-mouthed, cuss-like-a-sailor lady you know and love, was once a badge earning, card carrying member of the Girl Scouts.

I remember going on my route to sell Girl Scout cookies (I was an entrepreneur in the making, even then. I was bound and determined to sell more cookies than any other girl, damn it, even if it meant batting my eyelashes, selling sugar to diabetics, or good old fashioned blackmail. ("Hey, Mr.________. Unless you want me to tell MRS._________ that you were canoodling with the mail lady last week in your garage when I was riding by on my bike with my friend Nicki roller skating next to me, you'd better buy 3 boxes of Thin Mints IMMEDIATELY. Actually, make it 4 boxes. That'll be $10, please!") I was the classic negotiator--Donald Trump could've taken lessons from this pint-size brat in a brown uniform.

Back to my strategic cookie-selling route, I would often visit an old lady who had unnaturally black, curly hair that ran down her back (a look that, to this day, I firmly detest for older women); a gaudy cocktail ring on every finger (for those of you who are going to laugh and bring up my diamond ring on every finger--shut your mouth and keep reading); hot pink lipstick that was mostly on her dentures,leather vests, or sometimes, even a skirt, and on every square inch of her thin, but aging, body--lace. The woman adored lace--even in the dead of winter, when it was cold, and you'd think she'd catch a draft or something.

Her husband catered to her, waited on her hand and foot, and I always wondered if you dressed like a lace covered whore, if that was really the secret to getting whatever you wanted out of your man. (I've never really tried it, and maybe that explains so much about my dating life.) Nevertheless, any box of cookies she wanted to buy, he'd write me a nice, big old check for the total, and give her a big, sloppy old man kiss on her Wet & Wild Lipstick coated lips. Well. There went the rest of the lipstick.

For those of you who don't want to necessarily look like one of my favorite former clients (when she passed away a few years ago, it honestly brought tears to my eyes, but, paying homage to my valued customer, I decided NOT to let my mascara run down my cheeks and mess up my lipstick with a Kleenex) you can certainly add a touch of lace to your own wardrobe with leggings, like these ones from H&M, or pick them up at Forever 21. Save money on this trend--it's not one that you want to wear head to toe, like my dear old friend, God rest her soul, but showing a little legging under a skirt or dress might be a cute way to incorporate the trend into your wardrobe.

I'm still convinced I would be the consummate business woman; I can sell snow to an Eskimo. But when I open my own boutique, and sell clothing to my own clients one day, I'll probably suggest that no matter how much you love the trend, ladies, small nuances are a better bet than over-doing the look.

Although getting your husband or boyfriend to do whatever you want isn't such a bad idea, either. ;)

Not Just an Orange County Girl

Gwen Stefani is probably one of the first celebrities who really captured, and held, my interest in my adolescence, all the way through my college years, and even now, as a grown woman in my late twenties. I'll never forget the very first article I read about her in my Seventeen Magazine. I would race home after school, eager to open up the new, fresh pages of the magazine and unveil all the newest trends and clothing collections the pages would reveal to me. I remember seeing a young, fresh faced girl with crazy blue hair spiked and twisted every which way, and henna makeup on her arms and hands, topped off with a bindi, which I had never seen anybody from Orange County, California wear before (unless they were actually Indian.)

Her style evolved as the years dragged on. I went from Seventeen to InStyle and she would constantly grace the pages of the magazine with her fashion hits, and sometimes misses. I went to her concerts, felt bad for her when she broke up with Tony, and cheered when she was dating Gavin (what a dish, that Gavin is!) I ooohed and ahhhed at her wedding photos as though I was looking at an old friend's bridal album, and marveled at her unique John Galliano masterpiece, a bold confection that was almost fucschia, fading into a crisp, clean white at the top of her dress, completed, of course, with her signature red lipstick. I celebrated the birth of her precious Kingston, applauded her for having Zuma Nesta afterwards (Kingston couldn't be the only offspring of Gwen & Gavin, they're much too good looking to only invest genes in one child.) I bought LAMB perfume the day it hit stores, and to this day, lure men like bees to honey every time I dab it on my wrists, neck, and decolletage. I've had the great fortune and privilege of going to concerts with Priscilla and sharing those important moments with her, and in a sense, with Gwen. I've been able to heal a broken heart with songs like "Don't Speak," and I still look forward to the day when I can listen to songs like "Running" and "The Real Thing" and feel like they were written about my relationship.

So anytime I see a photo in a magazine, with a caption that reads "Best Dressed," and Gwen is smiling right above it, in a killer outfit, of course, it always makes me smile a little bit longer. I feel like she's grown up with me, in a sense. I feel like she's witnessed my own fashion hits and misses, and like she is the big sister who I've always been happy for, time after time.

I think as her career progresses, and as my life progresses, and my closet expands, she'll still remain one of my style icons.

No doubt.

What Dreams May Come

My entire life, I've dreamed of having 5 things:

1. A walk in closet
2. A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
3. A beautiful home
4. A husband to take care of, cook for, come home to, and love
5. Babies...to rock to sleep, take care of, raise, and dress in beautiful outfits.

I've had walk in closets, and I know one day, I'll live in a lovely home. Eventually, I'll meet a man who will actually know he does not want to live without me, and he will put a ring on my finger & I'll say goodbye to being free & single LC and hello to being Mrs.________(Insert Last Name Here.) I may never have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, or maybe, maybe I will. But babies? That's a dream I'll never give up on...

And when I finally have little ones who have their Mom's sense of style, I hope I can trot around, holding my kids hands, in gorgeously chic dresses and stiletto heels, and look every bit as polished as Posh Spice.

I may not have David Beckham waiting for me at home, but I will be a hip & trendy Mom.

That is not an option.

If It IS Broke, Fix It...

I’m a fan of the mantra: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” When I go to my favorite restaurants, I always spend at least five minutes reviewing the menu carefully, as though it’s the first time I’ve ever studied it, but in the end, I will inevitably order the same exact dish I’ve ordered twenty thousand times before. I will be particular about how it is prepared, and I will drive the waitress (and my dinner guests) insane ordering my food. At the end of the day, it’s the same thing I’ve always ordered. When I grocery shop, I buy the same products that are tried and true and that I believe in. When I purchase jeans, I look for similar cuts and washes if I know they’ll work for me. Yes, it’s true: when something works for me, I stick with it. I am loyal and true. If there’s one area of my life where I really believe in remaining faithful, it’s makeup and skincare.

I love MAC to no end; I think they had me at hello. But for the past year, their Studio Fix foundation has made me break out so frequently, it’s made me reluctant to even apply it everyday, except that I need foundation to cover up my blemished skin. As a woman who’s never struggled with her complexion, and has always had really good skin (all over my body…yes, I’m blessed) I knew it had something to do with the foundation and concealer. (That, and my esthetician mentioned that I needed to switch products, because it was clogging my pores. Hey, some discoveries, you just can’t make entirely on your own.)

Lo and behold, I visited the Barney’s New York store at Scottsdale Fashion Square, one of my new favorite places, and while sipping bubbly, had my makeup applied by one of my favorite NARS reps, Raquel. She was showing me the line of skin care, concealers, and bronzer, but perhaps the best product I walked away with that day (and yes, there were several) was my foundation. It left me with a perfect canvas, flawless finish, to then apply a great bronzer or blush, like my tried-and-true fave, NARS’ Orgasm. (And with a name like that, who doesn’t love it?)

Sometimes it’s hard for us to try something new. But when something really is broke, you’ve gotta fix it before it gets worse. To try the foundation that fixed my skin, visit your local NARS counter at Barney’s New York, Neimans, or Sephora, and pick up the foundation for yourself today. I have a feeling you’ll be loyal, too.

Tamara, Queen of Choo

Quotes For the Day, from the Fabulous Woman of the Day, Tamara Mellon:

"The truth is that we all have lives that are complicated. We all get hurt by people we love. It is laughable to believe that anybody is immune. The important thing, is how you behave. Times like that either make you stronger, or they destroy you."

and...

"The key to success is to maintain your standards and sense of innovation in downtimes, and not to let bad things get in your way."

The Founding Mother and CEO of Jimmy Choo knows about a whole lot more than fantastic footwear. Although shoes are, undoubtedly, extremely important. ;)

Happens Every Day: LC's Must-Read Book of the Week

I love memoirs. Perhaps it’s because I’m a storyteller; as a writer, it’s second nature to explain a personal experience to someone as though I’m writing my own memoir. Somehow, telling people the bullshit that I’ve been through seems to help them through difficult times and gain some clarity they didn’t have before.

This is by far one of the most incredible memoirs I’ve ever read. Isabel Gilles’ voice in the book shines through; you can tell she is a novice at the whole writing thing, but it’s that voice—a real, true voice of a woman who survived the worst possible heartache—that makes even the biggest cynic empathize with her.

When her husband gets a new job in a small town in the Midwest as a professor at a university, Isabel is forced to move her two young sons and become a stay-at-home Mom. When he begins coming home a little later, she realizes he is having an affair with the woman who just started working in his department, and they finally decide to be together, despite much begging and pleading from Isabel. There is a scene in the book where she suspects the woman, who she befriended, was having an affair with her husband, and when she talks about infidelity while they are in a movie theatre together, her husband’s mistress turns to her and says, “It happens every day.”

When I read this book for the first time in the summer, it hit close to home for a few reasons, personal reasons…and flashbacks of the times I’ve been hurt and felt broken flooded back. When I was staying with Auntie Gloria in Las Cruces, New Mexico in summer this past year, she let me (as usual) stay in her bedroom, and as I laid in that big bed at night and read most of the book, I found myself in a little ball, crying as I read the last part of the memoir. It was so real and so heartfelt, it pulled at my heartstrings in a way a memoir ideally should.

Pick up a copy for yourself at your local library if you’re a recessionista, or if you’re the type who likes to add a new and wonderful book to your bookshelf, visit your local Barnes and Noble, or www.bn.com, or Borders Books and Music today. Everyone has a story, and this one desperately needed to be told.

The Divorcee Diva's Survival Guide

It is with great pride, that I, LC, announce to the world that as of next Fall, I will be going back to ASU once again. This time, I will be in pursuit of a 2nd Masters/Doctorate (Ph.D.).

What am I studying?

Marriage and Family Therapy.

A Brief, Unedited Transcript of a Conversation I Had With An Old Friend:

ME (LC): "I'm going to be a therapist!"
OF (Old Friend): "Like a massage therapist?"
LC: "What the f**k? You think I'm not smart, or what?"
OF: "Well when you put it that way, not particularly, but tell me more..."
LC: "I want to study marriage and family therapy, but I want to be a sex therapist."
OF: "Some would argue that massage therapists are sex therapists."
LC: "I'm not talking about happy endings, jackass. I'm talking about helping people sort through their problems, personally, emotionally, in relationships...this is going to be so awesome!"
OF: "Just don't tell them that you once went to a therapist in high school, that might not go over so well."
LC: "I survived on cans of Diet Coke and saltine crackers for months on end. I was a Mexican Mary Kate Olsen, I didn't go because I had relationship issues."
OF: "Just remember, 50% of marriages end in divorce."
LC: "So what are you saying? I'm going to be a failure? That this is pointless?"
OF: "No. I'm saying, it's been nice knowing you. You're going to be so busy solving everyone else's problems and failed relationships, I will not see you for the next 40 years."

I don't claim to have all the answers. I do, however, know that breakups are hard, no matter your age, or how serious the relationship may have been. They're hard for men, they're hard for women, and goddamn it, they're hard for all of us who have to hear you bitch about them.

In an attempt to soothe the broken hearts of fabulous women everywhere, this book "This Little Piggy Got Divorced" is a fantastic purchase for that girlfriend of yours who is still singing "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor in the shower and crying in your box of Entemann's Lemon Strudel at your kitchen table. Pick up a copy today at Barnes and Noble, www.bn.com, or Amazon.com, and give it to her in a nice basket, with some bubble bath and a bottle of Chardonnay. She will thank you later. So will your other friends, to whom she is spending her waking hours bitching about love gone bad.

And check back with me in 2 years when I'm a licensed therapist. I will need all the business I can get, to pay back the hefty student loans I'll have to take out to pay for this education.

Dear Gwyneth, It's Me, LC

Dear Gwyneth,

I'll be the first to admit, I've never been a huge fan. So this is not a fan letter. Relax, I'm sure you get tons of those, don't get your panties in a ruffle. This is a letter, instead, to commend you on your rockin hot bod.

As a woman who tries to stay active and healthy and work out as much as possible, I know how hard it is to stay committed to that lifestyle, and trust me, I fall off the bandwagon more than Lindsay Lohan after a stint at rehab. I can somehow eat miniscule meals tiny enough to satisfy a starving Somalian orphan, but if you throw a cheesecake or a dish of gelato in front of me, I suddenly morph into Kirstie Alley, and it's hello, fat camp, and goodbye, willpower.

That being said, I will admit to eating a Krispy Kreme when I have PMS; (yes, assholes, I only ate ONE fucking donut from the box. Not the other 11, okay?) and I will also devour Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (OMG! Better than sex!) (At least with most men) if you hand them over to me. But I will also run my ass off on the treadmill like Jillian Michaels on The Biggest Loser AFTER she's downed 3 Red Bulls.

Even with all this commitment going on in my world, (at least, when it comes to fitness) I will always have curves. I will always be the girl for whom songs like "U and Dat" by E-40 and "Baby Got Back" were written for; I will eternally cry in the fitting room when my jeans slide right up until the mid-point of my ass, where all 42 inches fail to fit within the confines of those jeans. Kim Kardashian may have paid for her ass, mine came free of charge, courtesy of God.

You don't seem to have those issues. Your macrobiotic diet probably helps. Yay, you! for being so committed to that diet, it must be hard to pass up things like Cheesecake Factory cheesecake or Double Stuff Oreos and eat food that's only cooked below 60 degrees. Sometimes, I really do crave a piece of meat that looks like it might up and walk off my plate, because it's still medium rare, and I'm happy to eat it. But if I had a body like yours, I suppose I might think twice.

The point is, despite your frail thin figure and the fact that you have not a trace of cellulite on your body, I still think you look absolutely fab, dahhhling...and you need to know it. Girls don't commend each other on their looks often enough in this world, so big ups to you for your diet discipline, and rockin this jumpsuit, ever the style this Fall season.

One would never be able to tell that you've ever given birth to Apple and Moses. I'm sure Chris Martin is all Gwyn, and no Coldplay as soon as he sets foot in your door and sees you in outfits like this get-up. You look great.

Can't wait to see you in your next semi-forgettable movie role.

Sincerely,

LC

P.S.--I get the rationale behind your son's name. Parting the Red Sea is a big freakin deal. But Apple? How come? Is it because that's all you can eat on the macrobiotic diet? Please get back to me on this one. I'll share the info with US Weekly for you. Thanks, doll. ;)

'Cause I Love Your Style...

Call me a sucker for a great book about fashion, but I am currently infatuated with this book I purchased at Papyrus, where I buy my stationary, wrapping paper and greeting cards--it was admittedly an impulse purchase because it was positioned close to the cash wrap, caught my attention, and immediately was picked up and added to my bill. "This looks like the type of book you'd enjoy," the pleasant woman who was ringing up my purchase told me. As though women who wear Tiffany bracelets, 5 diamond rings, Movados and platform Jimmy Choo heels do not read books about politics or foreign affairs (the irony is, I actually do. I may be obsessed with shopping and fashion, and I may be the best dressed chick on the block, but I also have a passion for politics & plenty of opinions on issues that have nothing to do with shoes and designer labels.)

One look at my eclectic bookshelf, however, and you will notice that my passion for fashion runs deep and that I am inspired by fellow writers who feel inclined to share that love with the world. Amanda Brooks' smart little collection "I Love Your Style" not only gives readers the chance to explore photos from throughout history, it is informative and inspiring, and made me want to run to my closet and take an inventory of new options and ideas for putting myself together from head to toe.

I believe you can be smart and chic, and sometimes, they go hand in hand.
When it comes to THIS girl, they will ALWAYS go hand in hand...and are two parts to one very fashionable identity.

That's just me.

Purchase your copy today at Barnes and Noble or Borders Books & Music, or your favorite bookstore.

Dude Looks Like a Lady (or, the other way around.)

What do I love right now? Menswear looks. I’m loving the big, oversized blazers, especially the ones with the cuffed sleeves that roll up to reveal a pretty, pinstriped lining on the inside. I love the ones from Elizabeth & James (I’d like to think I look like an oversize version of Mary Kate Olsen in them) but there are so many others out there that are just as adorable. I happened to pick one up yesterday at Nordstrom, using my gift card to pay for half of it, which cut the cost of the jacket in half. Either way, it retails for $53, and it is worth every penny. Buy yours today, wear it with leggings, stretchy, satiny shorts or jeans, and hot heels…it might be menswear, but there’s nothing masculine about all the sexy looks you can put together with this must-have piece.

Elizabeth and James Blazer, available at select retailers, including Bergdorf Goodman.

Oh, To Be a Recessionista

How excited am I? H&M will soon be opening close to me…no more picking up a boatload of clothing & accessories on my vacations where there are actually H&M stores…which can be a real bitch when you have to load all your new goodies into your suitcase (I apologize profusely for those 50 lb suitcases that nearly burst at the seam, Southwest Airlines. You guys rock.)

H&M is the ultimate store for the recessionista and the smart shopper—you can purchase beautifully crafted pieces that seriously stand the test of time (at least, they have for me) on the cheap. Not to mention, you can get gorgeous accessories, like the 2 necklaces I bought in San Francisco which I get compliments on 24-7. Those 2 necklaces, a sweater, a top for my niece, a skirt for myself, and two tops which I dubbed my “career wear” pieces, only cost me $78.00. Where else can you get so much for so little, and still be a stunner when you slip into your new wardrobe?

For more information on stores near you, or for specific info on the Scottsdale grand opening, visit: www.hm.com. Happy shopping, bargain babes!

Well Hello-ooo, Dollface

As a teenager, and even during college, everyone would compliment my skin. I remember a guy named Jerry I went to school with, a good friend of mine, telling me that I had “skin like a doll.” In other words, it was porcelain: I never got blemishes, and when I did, I would freak out because I had one tiny pimple, usually when it was that time of the month.

When I turned 27 this past year, my skin went haywire. I don’t know exactly what is to blame for my breakouts; it could be my hormones, it is VERY likely all the stress in my career and professional life; and it might just be a change in my body’s chemistry. Or maybe it’s payback for always having flawless skin when I was younger. I have tried literally everything to get rid of the blemishes, short of laser therapy or microdermabrasion. Since I really don’t’ want to do anything too invasive, I’ve been very cautious about what I use on my skin.

My Aunt Patsy, ever the Oprah fan, recommended Mario Badescu to me a few months ago, because it was one of “Oprah’s Favorite Things.” Well, hell, if it worked for Oprah, it has to work for me, I thought. (Honestly, that’s not exactly what I thought, but at that point, I was willing to try anything to improve my skin.)

I bought the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion at Ulta, knowing this was great, because previously, you had to order the products online or hope to find it at Nordstrom. Mario Badescu is not sold mainstream: you can’t run to Walgreen’s or Rite-Aid or Long’s and go purchase it on a shelf.

Lo and behold, after a few nights of using the drying lotion, my blemishes started to heal. My skin started to improve. And even though I experience the occasional breakout even now, I know my skin’s on the way to recovery, and I’ll be a devoted Badescu follower from here on out. Soon enough, hopefully, my skin will look like that of a porcelain doll…once again.

To find Mario Badescu’s products, visit your local Ulta store, or the website: www.mariobadescu.com, or your local Nordstrom, or online at www.nordstrom.com

My Lawn Boy is Back!

Desperate Housewives is one of my favorites, it's not a big secret. The whole world (and my family and friends) stops on Sunday nights to watch the drama unfold on Wisteria Lane, and I can tell you what happened on just about every episode from every season. My family and friends and I talk about the stars of DH as though they are our friends or neighbors. (Not that the people we know don't have drama that parallels that of this TV show.)

As if I need another reason to tune in on Sundays, Jesse Metcalf (aka, John the gardener) is back in the act, and this time, he's preying on Gabrielle Solis' (Eva Longoria)young teenage niece, one of his employees. An attempt to make Gabi mad? Well, it's understandable, as I am certainly jealous of any other woman who's getting her lawn plowed by a guy as hot as Jesse Metcalf.

Welcome back. The cougar in us all missed you severely, Jesse. ;)

Tune in to Desperate Housewives on ABC Sunday nights. Check your local listings for times.

Raising My Glass to Barney's New York

I spent a fantastic afternoon at Barney’s New York store opening in Scottsdale, Arizona, at Scottsdale Fashion Square. I was greeted by the friendliest associates, indulged in champagne and a pleasant afternoon browsing all the new lines, from Mason to Cynthia Vincent to Carmen Marc Valvo to Diane von Furstenberg, and that’s just women’s clothing. I fell in love with cool weather pieces from Vince and DVF and all the beautiful jewelry in exquisite display cases, merchandised to pure perfection.

Ahhhh. Nothing excites me quite as much as fashion, shopping, and finding the newest creation from the latest designers…and Barney’s has a wonderful, distinctive selection. Go see for yourself…whether in Arizona, or in a city near you. I’ll definitely toast to you, Barney’s.

www.barneysnewyork.com

Adorned With Inspiration

I am a big fan of quotes. If you know me well enough, I incorporate quotes into just about everything-whether I am giving someone advice, or writing an article or blog; or even on greeting cards I make myself. I post them up on my bulletin boards at work for inspiration, and I use them frequently in my teaching and lessons. I think that there’s always more to learn, and one of the ways we derive the most wisdom in this life is from other people.

It’s no wonder, then, that as I browsed the jewelry section at Barney’s New York, I was immediately drawn to Aurora Lopez Mejia’s jewelry collection. Her pieces are a little rugged, unique, tasteful, and yet classic. She uses different materials and metals and then incorporates words, quotes, or phrases that could motivate even the most downtrodden among us.


Lopez Mejia has been creating handcrafted pieces for over 20 years, but she also owns a store, Talavera, in New York City. She has designed custom pieces for celebrities, and continues to carry her line at Barney’s, as well. Lopez Mejia says, of her jewelry: “It is my greatest pleasure to produce a piece of jewelry which is filled with a true meaning and inspiration for the wearer. I like to envision that each piece is symbolic and also a reminder of what is important in life.”

Life can get pretty complicated. Sometimes, we need a little extra inspiration and something to remind us who we really are, and what we expect from ourselves and our lives. And if you can find it while accessorizing, that’s just fabulous.

Purchase Aurora Lopez Mejia’s jewelry at Barney’s New York, Talavera, or visit www.auroralopezmejia.com.

The Wizard of Oz

Surprisingly, I never considered a career in medicine, health, or wellness as a teenager. Maybe I became increasingly more concerned about my health once I realized I am not invincible, and that taking care of my body is not only important, it's crucial.

I often see people in grocery stores, see what they throw in their carts, what they are feeding their children and their families, and I become nauseous at the way Americans develop healthy habits. A notorious germ phobe, I often get disgusted by the lack of hygeine people have, and their apathy when it comes to taking care of their bodies and minds.

So it is no wonder that I am a Dr. Oz devotee: I'm so happy he has his own show now, and I plan to get loads of information and knowledge from tuning in to this Oprah spin-off. America needs a show that promotes health...because if you ain't got that, honey, all the handbags and shoes in the world won't make you better.

Tune in to Dr. Oz today; check local listings or the website for more info on times.

Make It Straight Up and Dirty

“There’s a subliminal fabric that ties us to people. It’s beyond attraction. We’re drawn to those who push our buttons and will create an environment for us to work on our issues.” –Stephanie Klein, Straight Up and Dirty

It is not often I find a book that actually makes me feel connected to it in a strange, unusual way: but Straight Up and Dirty by Stephanie Klein is one such book. I finished reading it this week, and have to say, it probably was the sign from God that I needed. The book itself fell into my lap at the perfect time; and if I had to pick my LC Book of the Week from an entire library, I’d pick this one, week after week.



I will admit that at first, I was reading along and thinking to myself, “This girl is really no different than me or the rest of the single ladies out there. What’s so damn special about you, Stephanie Klein?” As I continued reading the book, there were moments when I related to her stories so much, I felt as though she had been observing my life and documenting it and calling it her own. This memoir is crafted from the heart, and each story of love and loss that Klein experiences will make every woman out there, single, married, or divorced—feel inexplicably linked and connected. She has been called the Carrie Bradshaw of the blogging generation, but quite honestly, it was refreshing to hear Klein describe the details of her heartbreaking experiences with dating, sex, pregnancy, abortion, and the disintegration of her marriage while she is in her twenties, on a normal woman’s salary, one that does not have Patricia Field as a stylist and a closet full of Manolo’s.

Thank you Stephanie, for a wonderful read, which helped me, as well as some of my girlfriends…sometimes knowing another person has felt the same way we have is enough to get us back in the saddle again—even if we are riding off all alone, untamed, and uninhibited.

Pretty Possibilities

I'm so excited to be able to wear my cute sundresses with my menswear blazers, especially my oversize ones. They not only add a little unexpected twist to my summer clothing staples, they let me extend the possibilities in my closet, and create more and more outfits that are "succeed while at work" appropriate, "go out for cocktails with the girls" appropriate, and "get compliments while shopping" appropriate. Whatever occassion you may be pairing these two pieces together for, you're sure to look just darling, like Charlize Theron.

Find adorable menswear blazers everywhere from Forever 21 to Charlotte Russe to Nordstrom, and also on www.revolveclothing.com, where you can find gorgeous jackets cut to perfection from a wide range of designers. Browse for yourself today, and create more fashion possibilities for those cute sundresses you wore all summer long.

One is Silver & the Other is Platinum

I am a wedding obsessed freak of nature. I love attending weddings, love wedding themed shows, love wedding movies, wedding fashion shows, bridal events and bridal showers. I have been in so many weddings, and I’ve also helped plan several weddings. I live for the days when The Wedding Chronicle, one of my favorite magazines, hits the newsstands at AJ’s Fine Foods, because I like to leaf through the ‘zine and see who’s been married recently, what colors they used for their wedding décor, and where their blessed event took place.

It’s only natural then, that I am glued to the television set anytime Platinum Weddings is on WE (Women’s Entertainment) channels, or Style Network. This show always captures my attention, but what really captured my eye for style (even though I have very discerning taste) was this wedding & the décor for “Amy & David’s” wedding. Talk about gorgeous. I’m not the biggest fan of pink…although I like it, it wouldn’t have been my first pick for a color for my wedding, but this one was so regal, elegant, refined, and fairy tale fabulous, I had to feature the photos and share them with you.



While I’ve never actually planned my own wedding, and although I have difficulty holding on to a man longer than a month, much less long enough to want to tie the knot, I have faith that one day, it will be my turn to get butterflies in my stomach all over again every time my fingers brush over the silks and lace of wedding dresses, every time I taste an assortment of tiny slivers of scrumptious cake from the finest bakers, and every time my fiancée and I have to choose wedding invitations, which will announce our blessed day.



For now, I guess I’ll have to wait until I find someone again who gives me butterflies, and take it from there.

But when I find someone who wants to make an honest woman out of me…well, you better believe, our love will go Platinum.


To view Platinum Wedding episodes for yourself, visit www.wetvonline.com or check your local cable/satellite company to see show times for this amazing wedding program.

Ladybugs, Butterflies...You Know What I Mean. ;)

My thought for the day.
Think what you will. ;)

To quote the movie, "Under the Tuscan Sun"...
"Ladybugs, Katherine...lots, and LOTS of ladybugs."



Find other adorable quotes at www.cardboardlove.com

I Can See Your Halo

As a child, my Mom seemed to have a lot more time (ironically) to sew clothing for us. Maybe the fact that my parents didn’t have a whole lot of money necessitated my Mom’s sewing clothes; nevertheless, she made me some rather cute little outfits as a kid, but she turned around and made me harem pants a’la MC Hammer, too, and that was a fashion don’t that I never, ever want to re-live.

One of the outfits I do remember, however, was a jumpsuit, and it was crafted out of the softest fabric, it was comfortable, breathable, and fun, and I wore it until I couldn’t wear it anymore (much like most of my clothing in my childhood.)

I will always cherish the things my Mom made for me, from Halloween costumes to dance dresses to graduation and special event dresses. They were made from the heart, by someone who had me specifically in mind; someone who, no matter what, will always love me more than any other person on the face of this earth, in a way that nobody else ever will. The link between my Mother, fashion, and me is irreplaceable, and unbreakable…and if I have anybody to thank for my love of fashion it would have to be my amazing Mom. There will never be a better feeling when it comes to fashion than slipping into a specialty, tailored-to-fit creation that only I will own, and one made by hands that once rocked me to sleep as s baby.

Since Mom’s time is much more limited these days, I plan to indulge my fashion whim and need for a jumpsuit by purchasing a silky, seductive Black Halo jumpsuit, available at www.shopharmonylane.com or www.shopmoodyblues.com, where you can purchase your own version of this trend.

As fab as I think Black Halo clothing is, it will still never compare to the jumpsuit my Mama made me. That outfit was one-of-a-kind. Just like my Mom.

You Make My Temperature Rise...

Clearly, there are reasons why I plan to name my first son “Beckham.” Hell, I might consider naming my daughter Beckham, after seeing this photo. David is my weakness and I had to give my baby’s dad a place on my blog for the day, because if this doesn’t make your temperature rise at least a few degrees, ladies (and some gents) then I don’t know what will. I would gladly betray the “ rules of feminism” to steal away Posh Spice’s man, and ladies, don’t lie, you know you would, too. Becks, you bring new meaning to the expression “The Big O.”

David Beckham…if loving you is wrong, I don’t wanna be right.

This Princess Went to Prada

"Nursery rhymes have never been so fashionable...can any mother resist its name dropping charms?” - The Times

Now that everyone in my life has been announcing their pregnancies, I've started contemplating what I would want if I were making a list of things I'd like to receive for my own baby shower. Not that I plan on having a baby shower anytime soon. Or a baby, for that matter. Hell, I still drop to my knees and thank God every month when I start my period, and I absolutely hate PMS, cramps, & mood swings.

Even still, I know I'd not only be a fashionable mommy-to-be, I'd be the consummate prego woman. I would have a baby shower that was to die for, a gorgeous nursery, and a bookshelf with all the classics, from Goodnight, Moon to Guess How Much I Love You, to Where the Wild Things Are. But on that very same shelf, would be this adorable book, entitled, "This Little Piggy Went to Prada," which mentions all the creme de la creme of designers and labels. Because if you're going to raise a child right, you might as well introduce them to the authorities on couture, and start them off right at a young age.

As a parent, instilling priorities in your child is a necessity. Might as well make one of them a sense of style.

Visit the website: www.thislittlepiggywenttoprada.com for more information.

Aveda's Shampure...My Undercover Lover

To quote Usher, "these are my confessions:"
--I love buying hair products so much, it is a borderline addiction
--I spend an ungodly amount of money on beauty buys that support my vanity
--I think the world of my hairdresser, who is not only handsome but also the sweetest guy, but even though he promotes TIGI products, I admit that sometimes, I am a cheater. (But only when it comes to my products. I am very monogamous when it comes to getting my haircut by the same man every time. Hey, give me points for fidelity. I will not stray from his chair.)

Now that all that is out in the open, it is the perfect opportunity for me to declare my undying affection for Shampure by Aveda. This gentle, eco friendly shampoo not only strengthens my hair and makes it soft, sexy, and flowy, it also smells like heaven for TWO days after you shampoo it. (I am so not kidding you. I pushed the limits to test this out for you, people. My hair still smelled like Shampure,two days later, even in July, even after working out three days in a row.)

Find it for yourself today at Mood Swings Salon in Tempe, on Mill Avenue, which is an adorably quaint salon nestled into the shops on Mill, or at the Aveda Store at Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall. You can also find these products online at www.aveda.com, for locations nearest you or to have it shipped directly to your front door.

I am faithful to my hairdresser, after years of searching for the perfect fit. Hey, when something works, you keep going back for more, am I right? But when it comes to products, if you're going to cheat, honey, make it WORTH it. ;)

The Pink Lady

Although I'm not the biggest Audrina fan this season (other seasons, perhaps I was more in her corner than I am now) I do think this Hills hooker (I say that affectionately, of course.) (Riii-iiight) deserves a shout out for bringing attention to Breast Cancer awareness. This is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and throughout the month, you will find me featuring celebs wearing apparel or accessories that draw attention to finding a cure for Breast Cancer, and you'll see me highlight products that will support the cause that is near and dear to my heart. Even when they include Justin Bobby's booty call.

Hey, finding a cure is worth pulling out all the stops.

The Sartorialist & Caffeine: A Fashionista's Tribute to The Good Stuff

Oh, if I had no discipline...I would probably wake up in the morning, have a huge cup of coffee (venti, black, please) and sit at the kitchen table (or in bed) with my laptop and search the world wide web for every fashion blog known to man. I would look at the beautiful photos my fellow bloggers have taken (as I always draw inspiration from photography) and I'd read fitness blogs to get more inspiration for the workout I would have to do after sitting on my ass reading blogs.

One of my favorite blogs is The Sartorialist, and you can read/view for yourself at: www.sartorialist.com, but now, you can also purchase this amazing book, which your friends will be quick to grab off your coffee table when they come over to visit, and ooh and ahh as they leaf through the pages. You can purchase it at www.barnesandnoble.com as well or www.borders.com.

So give your laptop a vacation for a bit, invite your fashion loving co-consipirators over for their caffeine jolt, and start getting inspired by this great book.

Word to This Momma

Salma has always been one of my favorite actresses and celebrities, not only because she is talented and successful and managed to make a lucrative and prominent career for herself despite challenges and obstacles that were in her path, but also because she is unafraid to be exactly who she is, regardless of what society expects from her.



She is always elegant, timeless, and still a very sexy and powerful woman. She's the type of woman we all aspire to be (or at least, the type of woman I want to be.) And now that she's a mother to her beautiful little Valentina, she's still a classic lady of style, and not any less sexy as she was before motherhood.

After all, anyone who marries the owner of design house Balenciaga has to be cutting edge.

Young, Fabulous, & Purple

Purple is one of my favorite colors. I remember my Auntie Gloria, who always asks for my fashion advice and lets me help her shop, reciting a line from a poem to me along the lines of “When I am an old woman, I shall wear purple.” Since I always insist on reassuring my Mom and Aunts that they are not old (as this makes me feel much younger) I told her, “Don’t be ridiculous. Anyone can wear purple. I’ve been wearing purple since my Christening.” To which she responded, “Actually, my dear, you wore white to your Christening, sweetie.” Point taken.

Nevertheless, purple remains a fashion staple; it is a gorgeous color and comes in a variety of rich, regal, exotic shades for Fall. Women like the beautiful Ms. Longoria-Parker have been seen out and about wearing the color with confidence & flair.

Don’t wait until you’re an old lady to wear purple. Now is the time, take it out of your closet or off the hanger, and walk out of the house looking pretty & posh in purple. It’s your time, dolls.

The Bitch You Love to Hate

Oh, yes, it is that time of year again...time for all new episodes of your favorite TV shows, even the reality TV shows we all loathe but secretly, or not so secretly, adore.

One of my favorite shows happens to be The Hills, and even though I'll admit it is still difficult for me to see the show without seeing Lauren every week driving in her BMW with the top down, the song "Unwritten" playing in the background, I still tune in like a loyal Hills devotee, or at least I have been over the past two weeks.

Tell me who your favorite Hills star is and I'll tell you who you are. That is basically the size of it.

Although I related to Lauren (LC) Conrad in a few ways (except for the fact that she was a millionaire, and all) I must admit that I just love Kristin Cavallari. I know I may stand alone on this one, and call me crazy, but I love her bitchy attitude, her in-your-face responses to drama, and her ability to make Lo shake in her Louboutin heels. I love the fact that in episode one she yelled, "I am the wrong bitch to mess with," because that might as well be tattooed around my wrist, or on my forearm. I like that she tells it like it is, and doesn't care if all the other girls are her best friend--she'd rather keep it real than have a bunch of fake friends trailing behind her. She's not going to be crying on every episode, because she's stronger than that. Like her or hate her, she's gonna be the bitch you love to hate.

And one thing that I can say for Ms. Cavallari, that few would disagree with?

The girl's style has improved significantly on the style-meter. She's someone who will be on the fashion radar, at least for a few more seasons.

Now if only she could improve Justin Bobby's look.
Kristin, you've got your work cut out for you, doll.

Spoiled in The City

There’s always one spoiled little bitch on every reality TV show. Now, don’t get me wrong, I really am not a big fan of Olivia on The City; and although I love Whitney so much more in comparison, I must say, I love Olivia’s sense of style, and I think the bitch at Elle Magazine in this season’s episodes is a royal jackass for kicking Olivia off of her staff (or trying to, anyway.) I especially love how she can take one look and balance it with something so completely opposite: I think she embodies what I mean by “everything in balance” and I think she’s a fashion plate, regardless if she’s a high strung, self-centered Park Avenue princess. Tune in to The City after The Hills on MTV, Tuesday nights, and see Olivia in action—she will be the girl you love to hate, but hey, she’ll be wearing the latest Louboutins as she pounds the pavement in NYC. Gotta love that.