Red Carpet Must-Haves…. Part 2

Valentine’s Day may be over but your only 5 days away from a picture perfect smile with Rembrandt® Whitening Strips…..

Red Carpet divas pride themselves on a winning smile. Many stylist rely on Rembrandt products to assist their clients in achieving bright white smiles.

Rembrandt Whitening Strips are a once daily treatment that visibly whitens teeth in just five days. Bid farewell to the days of whitening strips slipping and sliding because Rembrandt strips utilize Form Fit technology to prevent whitening strips from slipping and sliding on your teeth. A must-have for the Red Carpets, Proms, Weddings or any special event where you want to look your best…..

Includes 7 upper & 7 lower trays

$23.99, Drugstore.com

And to keep’em pearly white all day…….. Opt for a Whitening Touch-Up Pen!

Just indulged in coffee, tea, or a glass of Bordeaux? Simply break out this pen and rub over your teeth to diminish any staining effects.

$13.99, Drugstore.com

Fashion Week Update……..

Tuesday February 17, 2009

Badgley Mischka, Matthew Williamson, Max Azria and Narcisco Rodriguez are just a few of the designers that will unveil their Fall 09′ Collections at the tents today.

Want to get a glimpse of what really goes on inside those white tents????

Fashion Week Tips That May Get You In

• Volunteering can always get you in the tents, although you may have missed the deadline it’s still worth it to contact them as the tents are always in need of extra hands…..
• Dress the part……..Looking and acting like a fashionista helps your chances of getting into the places you want. Obviously if your reading this blog, you must be on your style game…
• Act Like You Belong There, Just stand in line with everyone else, inform those working the show that you don’t have a ticket, but you’d love to wait in standing. You’d be surprised how far a smile and a good attitude can get you in to the tents (worked wonders for me in the past)

And just in case your not in the New York City Area, we’ve got you covered too…..

Baby Phat will be doing a live Twitter feed from backstage at the Baby Phat show Tuesday, February 17, 2009 from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm EST.

Fashionista’s will be able to log on to www.twitter.com/babyphat and get a “backstage pass” to find out what goes on behind the scenes at one of the most fabulous shows of the year!

Sweet Valentine’s Tips of the Day….

Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Getaway or a quiet evening at home, everyone knows that sizzle can fizzle if you don’t make sure you’re breath is fresh and kissable!

Dr. Dan Smith, a reputable dentist based in the Los Angeles area sees an influx of patients looking for advice on how to keep their breath minty fresh before a big Valentine’s Day date. Below you’ll find some of Dr. Smith’s simple tips that can help you assure you won’t be told to kiss-off on Valentine’s Day…..

Dr. Smith’s Date Night Advice

When Placing Your Order…
Meat eaten in large quantities can cause bad breath, mostly due to the digestion process, which begins in the mouth.
Carbohydrates cause the strongest odors in the mouth – sugars, starches, and cellulose
Milk intolerance is also a cause of bad breath. If you are sensitive to dairy products – steer clear of ice cream desserts!

After Your Meal…
Lick the inside of your wrist. This is the best test to see if your breath is foul.
Use dental floss. Bad breath can be caused by food caught in your teeth.
Chew your garnish! Parsley is a well-known home remedy for bad breath.
Order the fruit dessert. Fresh fruits help cleanse the mouth after a meal and flush away odor-causing bacteria

At the Bar…
Alcohol dries out the mouth, which reduces saliva production.
Mojitos contain lots of fresh mint, so order one and ask for an extra mint garnish to chew on after you finish your drink.
Water will help thwart the dehydration effect of alcohol. Order one glass of water for every drink and you’ll stay sober and sweet!
Alcohol consumption causes digestive problems which leads to bad breath. In addition, alcohol dries out the mouth, which reduces saliva production.

To learn more about Dr. Smith, click here.

The Weekend Guide….

Are you still recovering from the stress of the holiday season?? Need a lil’ lift from the winter blues….Well, if a Swedish massage, hot stone massage or water treatment suits your fancy you may be in need of a spa day!!!

And because fashionistas struggle to keep it together while looking fabulous & chic, I’ve compiled a few tips courtesy of the snazzy folks at ShopSmart (March 2009) to guide through your fabulous Spa fix in this tight economy.

• Call spas and ask, ‘What specials are you offering?’ Inquire about off-season deals, cost-cutting packages, specials for new clients and whether certain days or times are cheaper than others. And don’t be afraid to admit that you’re looking for a deal.
• Try chain massage stores. The décor usually isn’t too fancy and chains are prone to staffing turnover, but the savings can be big. Massage Envy, for example, has more than 500 storefront locations nationwide and employs only certified therapists. As a member, you get one monthly massage for $49 to $59 per month (depending on location) with additional massages that month costing $39 to $49 each.
• Visit Spa schools. Most cosmetology and massage therapy schools offer a student spa/salon or clinic where treatments are done under the supervision of instructors at a fraction of the price. Search the Web sites of the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (http://www.careersinbeauty.org/) or the American Massage Therapy Association (http://www.amtamassage.org/).
• Consider Costco! The discount warehouse sells two $50 SpaFinder gift certificates for $79.99, a 20 percent savings, which can be used for treatments (including discounted ones) at any spa in the SpaFinder network.
• Search the Web. Sites like Spafinder.com, Spamagazine.com, Lifebooker.com, SpaWeek.org and Spa-addicts.com post special deals. At Google, type in your city name and “spa discount” to find promotions, or sign up for your favorite spa’s e-mail alerts on specials.
• Buy in bulk. You might be able to purchase a series of treatments—say, six for the price of five—to be used within a specified amount of time. Some spas offer a frequent-user card and the 10th visit is free.
• Ask about product deals. As spas make the transition from one season to another or change product lines, they often offer specials. These types of specials are here one day and gone the next, and they aren’t posted online, so call the front desk to ask.

Don’t forget to check out the March issue of ShopSmart magazine for additional money saving tips on closet organization, fashion, lifestyle and more…….

And remember, Spa Finder offers a comprehensive listing of spas including day spas, vacation spas, medical spas, and spa treatments across the globe.

If your in the New York City area this weekend and craving a Spa fix Body by Brooklyn Day Spa & Lounge has created a dynamic offering that will allow you to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the big game on Super Bowl Sunday!!!!

To celebrate the biggest game of the year, Body by Brooklyn Spa & Lounge will be hosting their first ever Super Bowl Party equipped with food, a full bar, and all the relaxing amenities our luxurious spa has to offer. Guests will be able to enjoy the spa’s unique treatments and services while still getting all the perks of any Super Bowl party!

When: Sunday February 1, 2009

Where: 275 Park Avenue

Brooklyn, NY 11205

Time: 5 -10 PM

Cost: $54 per person

Fashion Savvy or Eco-Friendly ???

Like many fashionistas, I have been sporting my chic eco-friendly tote in my handbag for about a year now. Not only is it the “politically correct” thing to do these days, the bags actually come in handy and look so much better than the cheesy supermarket/drug store bags.

This brings me to my point…..When we shop in stores like Forever 21 for 2-wash pieces (apparel that never make it to the washer for the second time) and costume jewelry that will tarnish at the sprinkle of water…..could we possibly be contributing waste items to our environment.

Let’s face it, while we all have been known to frequent a Joyce Leslie, Rave, Rainbow or Forever 21 we enter the premises knowing the clothes are literally disposable. Now does this mean we shouldn’t shop these retailers?? Not at all…..

It just makes you think twice about splurging on a luxury item that will stand the test of time. For example, Is it wiser to purchase a classic well tailored coat that may last 10-15 years versus the money you’ll spend on trendy coats for the next 5 years? You do the math…..

Buying well means only buying once! Of course we shudder at the thought of paying full price, so we shop the infamous Sample Sales, Outlet Stores and become budget savvy….eco-friendly shoppers…..

The Style Challenge….

What is Style?
Style is not just about clothes, nor is it something bestowed upon you if you are the correct shape or size. Style is about the way you hold yourself and move through the world.

Are you a sleek and stylish fashionista or do you prefer function over fashion? Are you all about brand names or does affordable and practical win out? What is your style?

Take the test, here.

The Weekend Guide….

Inauguration fever is here…. Whether your heading out to D.C. for the weekend’s events or planning a celebration soiree at home, here’s a few chic ideas:

Traveling To DC: Thinking about leaving on Tuesday??? With the expected traffic pile-up you may get you into the capital on Thursday!

Seriously, if your heading down Sunday evening/early Monday may be your best bet. Amtrak is an ideal choice for those who’d rather not navigate through the traffic and endless security checkpoints.

Bundle Up & Look Chic: The weather is predicting a bitterly cold and windy Inauguration Day. Just because the weather’s frightful, doesn’t mean you have to look that way too! The integral feature of a stunning Inugural look is most definitely a fab coat. Of course you’ll need tights that will keep your legs super-warm. And don’t forget about a chic hat, scarf and gloves too keep you warm…

Last Minute Event Shopping: Head down to the mall this weekend and snag an awesome deal like this, this or maybe even these.

Inauguration Soiree Hostess Tips

Decor: Show your American pride with a dazzling decor of silver, red and blue (yes, I said silver). Or better yet, whip out those decorations from last year’s 4th of July Celebration!

Swag: There is no shortage of Obama related products. Depending on your budget, gift bags could include t-shirts, wrist bands, hats, or just about any patriotic item you can get your hands on.

Menu: Serve a decadent menu reflecting President-Elect Obama’s diverse background. Try Mini-Chicago Style Pizzas, a Hawaiian salad, or a traditional Kenyan dish of samosas.

Vacation News…..

Hope everyone’s holiday was a fab one….

Tres Chic Style is still on a much needed vacation but until we return here’s a few fashion savvy tips for our fiercely loyal fashionistas.

• Plan a great New Year’s Eve event! While the recession has curtailed many of the extravagant festivities a get-together is always in season. Ring in 2009 with a few of your closest friends, some decadent treats and amazing cocktails!

• Stock up on next year’s winter favorites! This is the perfect time to stock up on drastically marked down winter apparel. Stay away from trendy items and pay close attention to classic pieces that can update your wardrobe for next year. Boots are always my favorite end-of-the-year item. A fashionistas can never have too manyboots.

• Chic New Year’s Eve ensembles are a must have…. No need to break the bank when you have budget friendly retailers like Forever 21. Stop by your nearest F21 store and snag a few peices to update your existing wardrobe and pick up that special ensemble for the big night.

And for the coupon divas…..

• $50 Boomingdale’s Coupon Expires December 31, At Bloomingdale’s stores take $50 off when you spend $250 or more.
• 20% Lord And Taylor Printable Coupons Expires December 29, Awesome savings of 20% discount on sale and clearance merchandise, plus 15% off storewide regular price, present it at the cashier for discount
• 10% Printable Aldo Coupon Expires January 31, Print coupon and present it to any Aldo Shoe store near you and save 10% on any merchandise.
• 60% + 20 % Banana Republic Stores Coupon Expires January 01, Save 60% discount, plus an extra 20% off sale ( limited time only ). Offer valid at Banana Republic store/online discount will be taken at register, On-Line Promo Code: Extra20

Chic Holiday Ideas….

The Sex and the City fashionistas introduced us to the uber-chic hand bag rental Bag, Borrow or Steal, now Ilus New York brings you New York City’s newest rental phenomenon…Designer Dresses!

Ilus New York affords you the opportunity to borrow designer dresses, evening bags and genuine Swarovski crystal accessories to meet the needs of your holiday social calendar.

Here’s How It Works:

• You can browse the designer dress selection online or in their Nolita boutique
• Reserve or order your selected dress
• Enjoy for 3 nights from the date of rental, when it’s time to return your dress, simply choose from the following options: Drop off at their Nolita boutique, or
  schedule a pick up by phone or email.

This seems like an ideal solution for fashionistas on a limited budget during this tight economy. It allows you to look your best without the hefty price tag associated with most designer gowns. For about $100 (rental & cleaning fees) you can borrow the dress of your dreams and still have change to splurge on some accessories.

Here’s a few from their collection that I’m totally smitten with….

• Crimson Pleated Silk Cocktail Dress by Badgley Mischka Platinum
• Gold Sequin Charmeuse Gown by Marc Bouwer Glamit!

Note: Most of my favorites were only available in a size 4 or 6, so it looks like Ilus New York may need to up the ante on some realistic sizes. I only found 2 dresses in my size.. What a pity!

No worries….I’ll make it my mission this week to bring you another rental website with realistic sizes like 8, 10, 12 and up……

And here’s a few Cyber Monday deals for my fircely loyal fashionistas…..

• Gap: Get 15% off your order at Gap on Cyber Monday with code GAP15, and right now, pick up holiday sweaters buy one get one half off.
• Piperlime: Cyber Monday get 20% off at Piperlime with code MONDAY at checkout, and as always enjoy free shipping.
• Old Navy: Get 20% off at Old Navy on Cyber Monday with code SAVENOW at checkout.
• Steve Madden: 20% off at Steve Madden with coupon code: MADDEN20
• Banana Republic: Save up to 40% off select styles—last day!. Pick up workwear, casualwear and fab accessories for up to 40% off.

Chic Holiday Hostess Gifts…..

This holiday season, many fashionistas will be invited to a dinner or gathering. Some may even be staying overnight at a friend or family member’s home. A great way to show your appreciation for the work and effort put forth by the hostess is to bring a hostess gift.

While hostess gifts are certainly not mandatory, they are thoughtful and oh so chic…..

• Chocolates- you can never go wrong with chocolates….
• Picture Frame- Almost every hostess would enjoy a beautiful picture frame. If you know your hostess well, choose a frame that will compliment her décor.
• Wine- tried tested and true…. An ordinary bottle would be a little dull and boring, so spice it up with some sassy wrap and a cute gift card.
• Gourmet Tea or Coffees- Opt for a gift basket or assemble your favorites with a ceramic mug and decorative wrap.

Chic Holiday Travel Tips….

• Packing-First things first, just because your going to see family, doesn’t mean you can’t look good. Pack a few must have items of clothing to accentuate a glam look. You never know when your married cousin will invite that cute single co-worker. Who knows, maybe you’ll be back for Valentine’s Day with him as your date…
• Skip the Cheap Travel (unless it’s a last minute getaway to Maui), Many airlines offer big bargains for flights on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. You might save a bundle, but there is little worse than spending your holiday in the event of a delay at the airport. You’ll be forced to spend the holiday with a bunch of airline employees and other passengers who don’t want to be there either………..
• Leave the drama at home……. yes we all know Uncle Jr. drinks too much at the dinner table and Aunt Bea gossips too much, but just suck it up for Turkey Day…..
• Empty all your pockets and make sure those stiletto boots are outfitted with cute socks/tights for the random screening check. (Feet Up Please…)
• Do not attempt to carry wrapped gifts in your carry-on. TSA officials may ask you to unwrap them…….Better yet, security agents might be opening your gifts instead of your loved ones, and you’ll be wrapping them all over again.
• Remove the batteries from toys and electronic items will save you many hassles at check-in and security.
• Remember that 3oz. rule, no liquids larger than 3oz. and don’t forget the Ziploc bag. Do not get into an altercation with the TSA agent when she takes your 8oz bottle of Bath & Body Works and tosses it…….she is just doing her job (and will probably be smelling nice too courtesy of you). All your fault, you should have read my Favorite Holiday Things post and you would’ve known better.
• Carry your laptop so you can get your daily dose of Tres Chic Style… And share the blog with your cousin Reesie, because you know she likes to “get her hair did.”
• Stop at Target (because magazines are always 20% off at Target) and pick up the latest copies of your favorite Fashion Magazines.
• As always, a fashionista must be pampered before the trip, Do the hair/nails & pedicure ritual before you leave so you can spend that precious time with family.
• While on the plane, jot down at least 5 things in your life your thankful for. At the end of the flight tuck the list in your bag and if anybody works your nerves during the holiday go to the list and it’ll help you realize what really matters….. Happy Holidays!