Hadrian Miguel Tagged

Get Your Spring On!

Get Your Spring On!
by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

Some of the best collabos (or collabs, short for collaborations) are now in full bloom!

Collaborations are a way to breath new life into a brand and create interest by joining forces with popular artists, designers, entertainers, and creative visionaries. We’ve mentioned it here before when certain retailers presented successful, exclusive collections by  Alexander McQueen, Gwen Stefani, Karl Lagerfeld, Missoni, Lanvin, and Jimmy Choo.

It often makes a once unaffordable designer not just accessible to the wealthy but available to the rest of us at a great value that we wouldn’t lose sleep over.  An easy way to determine if the collaboration is a success is whether the the products sell out quickly or if the partnership resurfaces again for later projects.

For me, it’ll always be about top design, and how to shop well and look good at unbeatable prices!

DKNY x Opening Ceremony

DKNY has teamed up with fellow native New Yorker and indie brand Opening Ceremony to create a limited edition collection based on 15 pieces from its archives that has been tweaked, reissued, and updated.

This 90′s-influenced throwback to DKNY’s earlier sporty and streetwear vibe features a selection of cropped tops, hooded shirts, bodycon maxi-dresses, jumpsuits, and iconic DKNY graphics.

Ranging in price from $145 to $665, the capsule collection is available at all Opening Ceremony stores and online.

Check out the DKNY x Opening Ceremony Behind The Scenes Rollerskating Jam Video Shoot

 

 Derek Lam x Kohl’s

Available at Kohl’s on April 5, Derek Lam is the latest designer to participate in their DesigNation series. Influenced and inspired by Rio de Janeiro for this spring collection, it’s a kaleidoscope of vibrant hues and colors at play with a subtle sexiness that goes day to night, all fabulously priced from $36 to $88.

He’s on-trend with the latest in women’s fashion and some of the highlights include bomber jackets, hooded snap trench jacket, cutout swimsuits, draw-string shorts and skirts, maxi-dresses and sophisticated jumpsuits. This mini collection for the mass retailer is a showstopper and will keep you runway ready well into summer and beyond.

Apolis + J. Crew

J. Crew has teamed up with the global citizens of LA-based Apolis and brothers Raan and Shea Parton for two limited edition Men’s chambray swim trunks.

These boardshorts are handcrafted in a California factory that has been making swimwear for lifeguards and watermen since the 1960s.

The trunks are made with a natural indigo-dyed, Spanish chambray that will lighten in color as it is exposed to the elements to create the perfect lived-in, been surfing much look.

Accented with a button fly and drawstring, a cargo side flap pocket with key holder, an Apolis patch, and a bold stripe in royal blue or red.

Available exclusively online at jcrew.com and also at select J. Crew stores in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Costa Mesa, New York, and Boston.

Uniqlo x Celia Birtwell

Celebrating a wicked blend of art, whimsy and timelessness, acclaimed UK artist and textile designer Celia Birtwell teamed up with Japanese brand Uniqlo. Celia was able to go through her vast library from the 1960′s and ’70′s and reference certain moments.

When she met with the team from Uniqlo Japan, they went through the sketchbooks and reference files together where she subsequently developed and re-worked those selected specifically for Uniqlo.

 

Her iconic and bold prints have been re-imagined for an exclusive range of T-shirts, tunics, totes, shirts, trousers, and stoles. Uniqlo x Celia Birtwell is available at Uniqlo stores in San Francisco, New York, New Jersey, the UK, and Japan and prices from $9.90 – $29.90.

See the bold patterns come to life in the Uniqlo video advert:

 

For the sole collector, collabos are the ultimate game changer as we take a look at the lively and most sought after kicks in the shoe game.

Reebok X Keith Haring

Reebok’s Affili’Art Program now presents a line in conjunction with the Keith Haring Foundation. Previous collaborations produced collections of Jean-Michel Basquiat and Ryan McGinness.

The partnership of Keith Haring’s iconic and most recognizable works EverymanBarking Dog and Radiant Baby with Reebok’s classic silhouettes like the Classic Leather, Classic Leather Mid, NPC II, Workout Plus and Freestyle creates a distinctive and bold style, making the shoes a real head-turner on the streets.

The Reebok x Keith Haring Foundation range is now available at select boutiques around the world.

adidas x Show Ayanocozey

Jeremy Scott has previously injected whimsy and freshness to adidas, but now they have tapped into the creative mind of notorious Japanese music artist Show Ayanocozey for the special edition Show Ayanocozey x adidas Superstar.

The Supestar shelltoe is my favorite adidas shoe and my go to sneaker since I first got wind of Run DMC rocking it back in the 80′s. Pulling inspiration from punk and the Bosozoku (Japanese bike gangs), this sneaker is accented by the classic adidas 3-stripe in patent leather and faux studs on the heel counter.

 

Available in black with black studs, black with gold studs, and white with silver studs. Red on the inner lining adds a surprise pop to the black studded sneaker with the customary white rubber covers the sole and toe cap. The Show Ayanocozey x adidas Superstar is available in limited quantities at select retailers.

Vans

At Vans, some of the best collabos have sprung up this season.

Alien Workshop co-founder Mike Hill completes his Vans Syndicate partnership by utilizing the main color on his Authentics as the accent shade on this hightop release.

The Mike Hill x Vans Syndicate Sk8-Hi Boot ‘S’ is really dope because although it is a sneaker, it ingeniously does double duty as mock-toe workboot with mint & black laces for a nice finishing touch. Added bonus, every pair comes with a DIY rubber stamp sheet, with some Vans Syndicate & Alien Workshop artwork.

Available exclusively at select independent skateboard retailers, Vans Syndicate celebrates the diverse heritage of ideas, attitudes and influences that make up skateboarding’s unique culture.

Supreme is known for its great Vans collaborations, and the collection sporting the well-known New Order album cover with the floral design from 1983′s Power, Corruption & Lies is another smash.

The album art was designed by English art director Peter Saville who interpolated his idea from French artist Henri Fantin-Latour’s A Basket of Roses painting. All of them are brilliant, but I’ll be trying to scoop up the classic lace-up Eras for the warm summery days ahead.

French fashion label Kenzo is back again at Vans with their sixth collection of Vans lowtops.  These memorable patterns with the hottest shoe trends this Spring include a fresh take on leopard, florals and rosettes. Available at Kenzo stores, Kenzo.com and at select retail partners.

 

 

Let’s face it, collaborations are here to stay, so we’ll just be back to see what’s next!

How will these partnerships and others like them do?

Share thoughts in the comments section below, or follow me on Twitter @UhOhHim

 

The Fast & The Savory

The Fast & The Savory

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

L.A. is a mecca for veganistos, but often when looking for a yummy vegan restaurant, the choices have occasionally been places where the unifying characteristic was a total lack of flavor or imagination, or a fave spot that has come & gone just as quickly as it caught on.

Learning how to find ample variety, nutrition and mouth-watering flavors in a vegan diet can often be complex and challenging, and my eye on L.A. is relishing two great choices that are here to stay, the best in tasty, vegan bites without sacrificing taste and selection.

The Veggie Grill

The Veggie Grill is a vegan resto with mass appeal that specializes in quick, quality meatless meals or mock meat dishes of popular and familiar American comfort foods at a great value (nothing on the menu is over $10).

The heart of the menu and the core of their nutritional philosophy is plant-based foods and vegetable proteins like tempeh (a soy- and rice culture-based food, seitan (aka wheat meat), and their exclusive Chillin’ Chickin’ and Veggie-Steak (a veggie protein blend of soy, wheat, and peas)…all of which resembles the flavor and texture of chicken and beef.

The Veggie Grill’s ultimate goal is to serve you delicious and wholesome food. By wholesome, they mean good calories and good fats that are 100% plant-based. Nutrient-rich, and free of cholesterol, animal fat and trans fat, their food fills you with goodness.

 

super stacked veggie-steak burger

Everything is marinated and seasoned well, and there’s absolutely no meat, dairy, eggs, seafood, high-fructose corn syrup, refined sugar, or animal products. Other Veggie Grill goodness includes Quinoa, Kale, Portobello Mushrooms, and Red Cabbage. Their menu also offers gluten-free, soy-free, and wheat-free options too if you have some food sensitivities.

The super-delish standouts here are the Thai Chickin Wrap, Santa Fe Crispy Chickin’ Burger, and the Carne Asada Sandwich served on a wheat bun/roll, and the All Hail Kale Salad…and don’t forget the side of Sweetheart Fries (their sweet potato fries lightly-fried in canola (an oil, free of trans fat and rich in polyunsaturated good fats).

The carrot cake is TDF  (to die for) with apple sauce, tofu, and evaporated cane juice as some of the natural sources used to create their indulgent desserts that you can really enjoy and feel way less guilty about eating!

Opened in 2006 in Orange County, The Veggie Grill now has several fast-casual Southern California eateries including Santa Monica, Hollywood, West Hollywood, the Farmer’s Market in LA, El Segundo, Torrance, and the original Orange County locations in Irvine. What we also dig is that all locations recycle whenever possible, use biodegradable plastic bags, recyclable and recycled materials which includes their Tectum walls and ceilings. The Veggie Grill locations also utilize highly sustainable timbers like reconstituted Bamboo for flooring and Kiri for the counters.

The Veggie Grill is open from 11 am – 10 pm with the exception of the WeHO location on Sunset Blvd. which is open until 11 pm.

BabyCakes LA

Erin McKenna, owner of Babycakes. Photo Source: Andrew Theodorakis /NY Daily News

It’s on like donkey kong for the perfect treats, which brings me to the local Los Angeles version of Manhattan’s illustrious Lower East Side bakery BabyCakes in Downtown L.A.

There’s absolutely no sugarcoating here at BabyCakes. While most sweet offerings in other wildly popular cupcakeries are ruled by desserts overflowing with sugar, chemical sweeteners, flour and butter cream, Babycakes comes to the rescue with its vegan, kosher, gluten-free, wheat-free, soy-free, egg-free, dairy-free, casein-free, and refined sugar-free fare.

So, now you’re probably wondering WTH is left to bake with then? Well, Babycakes takes advantage of rice flour, a garbanzo/fava bean mix, canola and cold pressed virgin coconut oil, applesauce, flax, and as the sweetener- agave nectar (a natural syrup from a cactus which is low on the glycemia index and often a safe alternative to most non-insulin dependant diabetics) for all their glorious cupcakes, pies, doughnuts, muffins, sweet breads, brownies, scones, cookies, and cakes.

 

baked beauties of Babycakes

They also sometimes use spelt flour (derived from a grain in some of its non gluten-free items), and occasionally, unprocessed and unrefined sugar is used in certain goods, although very sparingly.

 

The breakout stars on their menu are the scrumptious baked chocolate covered doughnut, the jam-filled biscuits, chocolate chip cookie sandwich, and any one of their cupcakes, but especially the Red Velvet will all make you drool. All their baked beauties are rich, magicly buttery (without the butter!), dense, and brimming with sweet flavors.

Babycakes LA is located at 130 E. 6th Street (between S. Main & S. Los Angeles streets) and opens at 10am daily and closing times that vary. They also have another LA location on Larchmont.

Although, I’ve given up meat, dairy and refined sugar,  there are very few eateries or bakeries that define themselves as vegan that I would hunt out given a range of other delectable choices, but it’s always a joy to find those little treasures like The Veggie Grill and Babycakes that have been a very welcome surprise…and makes it so much easier to stop my my flexitarian / near-vegan ways completely.

Stay tuned for my future journeys into night and the transformations of a vegan life.

You can reach me at hadrian@tangerineliving.com

Back In Black

Back In Black

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

Modern technology has brought us edgier gadgets and electronics in rainbow brights, big white rooms and white tiles, even plush five star hotel-style towels and designer bar soaps, all kinds of luxe goodies sleeked out in white and bold, pop up colors.

As summer ends, I find myself inspired by a much more moody vibe as I go Back in Black, head to toe and from the outside in.

DARTH VADER ONESIE

Come over to the dark side and let the force be with you as you let your little bambino step out into world and the Galactic Empire in the Darth Vader Onesie.

For the baby and toddler, nothing says fun or FAN-tastic as this lil’ outfit that’s ready for everyday play, show, and Halloween too.

The Star Wars-themed onesie comes with cape, pants, headpiece and booties to complete the look of the Sith Lord.

It’s comfy and cool, and made with 95% cotton and 5% spandex.

Available at NeatoShop.com

 

FAB MAB TEE

Feeling nostalgic but looking to sport something just as cool as a CBGB tee, then the gotta get, must-have item for Fall is a retro, rock t-shirt that celebrates the Fab Mab in San Francisco.

The Mabuhay Gardens (The Mab or Fab Mab) was a punk rock institution of the late 70′s and 80′s, it was like the CBGB of the West where you could see great shows of established & up-n-coming live bands.

This popular destination for music was originally a Filipino restaurant and bar located at 443 Broadway Street, smack dab in the heart of North Beach right along with the neon lights of the strip clubs, popular dance clubs, and the nights of cruising in lowriders & hotrods.

It didn’t cost much to get in and on many nights it was the home to The Dead Kennedys, Black Flag, The Avengers, Leila & The Snakes, and other acts like Blondie, The Ramones, Devo, Iggy Pop, The Runaways/Joan Jett have all played there.

So, revive the spirit of live music and the glory days of the Mabuhay Gardens because nothing says punk rock & classic San Francisco more than a black and white, vintage-inspired tee.

SEUNG YONG SONG – DAMI

In the world of home living and design, the furniture and lighting of Korean designer Seung Yong Song‘s Dami series livens up design with the popular grille style of Asia which will give your home, a fresh modern look.

His collection consists of basket forms and covers that are available for different and various usage depending on form and size.

The Dami collection portrays the structure of Korean traditional grille with clean lines, and light and sturdy durability.

The combination of new eco-friendly materials like Valchromat (made from forest waste and recycled pine, and organic dyes with a specially-made binding resin and a CNC processing technique make it possible to marry modern objects with traditional beauty.

RENOVA TP

If you really tired of the same ol’ same ol’, then super cool Renova is helping to transform bathrooms around the world with a 3-ply, recyclable & biodegradable toilet paper that comes in black…yes, black toilet paper!

Pamper your bum with their plush & quality paper products that are non-bleached and 100% chlorine free, unlike many white toilet papers.

A little more expensive than the standard white, plain jane variety, I like to dress up my bathroom with black TP any time when guests are expected for a visit or a party because it screams unique, style, and always takes my invitees by surprise.

It just looks and feels good too.

BINCHOTAN

Best known for its benefits in grilling food and in water and air purification, Binchotan charcoal can be found in a variety of everyday uses. Binchotan charcoal from the Kishu region of Japan is activated & refined from oak through a simple process using extremely high burning temperature and a very rapid cooling process.

Whether to absorb chemicals in tap water and the negative ions in the air, stimulate healthy soil in the garden, or to enhance blood circulation in a body treatment or hot bath, Binchotan is a good, natural way to boost overall health and wellness.

The chic, sleek or functional use of Binchotan is the rather stylish and practical toothbrush. It gets the job done well and then some because the bristles of the toothbrush are blended with high-quality Binchotan charcoal powder.

Binchotan charcoal helps to deflect negative ions, has a powerful deodorizing effect, removes plaque and attacks the causes of bad breath. It also helps to prevent harmful bacteria and viruses from growing in the brush bristles.

You can even save the planet by not consuming water sold in plastic bottles and also save energy by tossing out your electric air filters, and just using Binchotan charcoal to purify your water and air .

Since Binchotan has countless micro cavity walls in many directions with one gram of charcoal that has nearly the surface area of an entire tennis court, it absorbs chlorine and other chemicals from tap water while releasing natural minerals. Use a 1/4 lb of Binchotan in a pitcher of tap water. Binchotan helps release alkali ions to increase the pH in water – around pH 8-8.5 – to create naturally made mineral water, it softens and improves the overall taste of water.

In your home, the charged ions in our environment due to unhealthy noise, smoke, odors, and harmful electromagnetic waves result in unclean air. Binchotan introduces negative ions to the environment, to purify and deodorize the air, and to help naturally eliminate unpleasant smells from the air. It also regulates the humidity, absorbs chemicals, dissipates the electromagnetic field from household appliances and by generating negative ions, it is believed to put you in a better frame of mind.

CHOGAN HARNESS

The Chogan harness by Black Sheep & Prodigal Sons is a bold, statement neckpiece. It is part of a collection that draws its inspiration from Navajo Shamanic traditions and the Tisimshian legend accounting for the origins of daylight. The collection introduces large and bold customizable looks using re-purposed traditions and up-cycled salvaged materials.

The harness is a very limited edition item that uses salvaged vintage piano ebony circa 1920 – 1945 with black garment leather cording structure that is customizable and removable via integrated snaps.

Black Sheep & Prodigal Sons call themselves The Purveyors of Dark & Uncommon Goods. Their jewelry and collection has been an inspiration for my own creative wares. Their products are unique, one-of-a-kind, special edition, and handcrafted to order in New York.

ACNE DUKE

Time to get shady with the latest and greatest in sunglasses from Acne Studios.

The Acne Duke in black is definitely not for someone who wants to blend in, keep their heads down, nor to get in & get out without making a scene. A minimalist frame with unisex appeal, these contemporary & wicked sunglasses are for those who want be seen and possibly heard.

Handmade in France, with a 8 mm thick acetate frame, matte finish, and dark UV protected and polarized lenses. Measures approximately 5.31 inches across and 1.6 inches in height

THE LITTLE BLACK WATCH

In the age of mobile phones and portable tablets & computers as the end all be all, telling time has taken a back seat to these objects as the ultimate pocket watch.

Finish off your look and make an impression with the best accessory, the wristwatch. A black watch should be a staple in our wardrobes and is the man’s answer to a girl’s little black dress.

With an homage to the elegance and timelessness of classic watches, GUESS is serving less is more with a series of black watches that updates traditional styles with a modern, bold, minimalistic, forward-thinking aesthetic at a really good price. Ideal for men who prefer to keep a high style profile and standout with a distinctive timepiece.

ASH FOOTWEAR

The hunt to find those bold and cool kicks is over because with these winning designs, it’s high time to express freedom of your feet.

Ash Footwear  does a fresh take on the classic high top with all kinds of cool bells and whistles like adjustable buckles, strap, zip side, and a denim or leather upper.

They have tons of styles in black for both men and women, but we especially like the Vincent Bis Sneaker for the guy, and the Bowie Ter Wedge Sneaker for the gal.

Created by Leonello Calvani and Patrick Ithier, Ash shoes come in an assortment of fabrics from leather, denim, suede, waxed nappa, and velvet. Fun, glamour and originality of the styles are always at the base of the philosophy of the brand.

MORRISSEY THE CANDLE

“I wear black on the outside because black is how I feel on the inside,”  sang the lead singer of the Smiths on their b-side smash, Unloveable. And, nothing says moody, brooding, and fab than to be backlit and aglow by a Morrissey candle!

The iconic frontman of the Smiths and solo crooner is immortalized (albeit only temporarily) in black wax to light up your life.

The art of the candle is called Half a Person: A Morrissey Effigy. The original sculpture by Sean Burford from which candle molds were made. Morrissey the Candle is a heroic idealization for all of us who braved adolescence and teen angst with his anthemic songs that coddled, empowered, and mirrored our sometimes blue thoughts.

The Morrissey candle has a chest exposed, coy grin and coiffed to perfection, its only vulnerabilities are a band-aid covered nipple and a cotton wick. Bust him out at a dinner party and show all your friends you’ve still got the cool, indie, goth, emo spirit.

Now, only if they could make him last forever as a metal candle sconce so that there is a light that never goes out with this charming man.

The S Factor

The S Factor

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

The S’s Have It as the end of May kicks off our head to toe style guide with a lot of fun stuff that we just can’t get enough of.

Great finds for your little vacay or weekend trip that will keep you looking super cool and feeling oh-so good at a fine price, no matter where or how you summer.

Shades

Hey Ladies, Aviator sunglasses by Michael Kors  gets you to soak up the sun and be made in the shade with his fun and vibrant Aviators.

These sleek frames deviate from the classic aviator style that’s whimsical, playful, and retro-chic now in a rainbow of not-so classic hues. And you can’t beat this— at $99, you’re not skimping on fierceness while bleeding your wallet.

Shorts

For the guys, shorts have really become short again especially if you are so tired of the typical board short, cargo or usually knee-length shorts. Two silhouettes standout for summer: the short shorts and the harem short.

At Zara and Kokon To Zai, the harem short takes center stage by keeping it relaxed, cool, and fun. Something different that will get you noticed anywhere you go.

 

At TopMan, the short shorts are the latest trend to let you stand out from the crowd in a more tailored, micro fit that’s made to be worn well above the knee while at Chubbies, a San Francisco-based company that are proud of their highest standards for shorts excellence with their comfy, soft, radical shorts for men.

Swimwear

You can take a tropical journey as Brazil is the muse for a collection at Macy’s, with two swimsuits that are inspired by the beaches of Brasil!

The A.B.S. multi-colored animal print bikini has distinctive hardware, adds tropical appeal, and will make any surfside into a wild safari.

You can add Brasilian-inspired sizzle to your beach look with the Despi sequined, mosaic-printed halter bikini top and bottom!

 

Sneakers

At Adidas, the essential summer slip-on is the sneaker with pops of color to brighten things up. With classic takes of their running shoes from the 1970′s and 80′s that stay true to the original, but give you an updated and way cool retro feel in fresh new colors. It’s just the kind of sneaker to pimp your style.

 

 

The Marci by J. Crew / $198

Sandals 

The Marci Patent Wedge by J. Crew is our favorite sandal of the summer that packs a punch in glossy patent leather with a sleek and strappy silhouette that works wonders with everything you pair it with. 

With colors like Bright Dahlia, Bronzed Clay, Casablanca Blue, and Tangier Orange, a girl can step into the spotlight with a wedge that doesn’t have to be sky-high to boost basics up a notch…a sandal that allows you to rise and shine!

 

Scents

Nuit Etoilée by Annick Goutal, 3.4 fl. oz /$120

You can go from sunrise to sunset and smell absolutely sexy with Nuit Etoilée by Annick Goutal. The concept behind the fragrance “A Starry Night” is in reference to Van Gogh’s masterpiece. Perfumers Camille Goutal and Isabelle Doyen have created a dream world, inspired by their nightly escapades in pristine open spaces.

Two versions are available for both a man and woman, Nuit Etoilée is like a majestic forest at nightfall that’s citrusy, yet woodsy, and spicy with essences of  Citron, Sweet Orange, Peppermint, Siberian Pine, Balsam Fir and Angelica Seeds. In the USA, exclusively at Sak’s Fifth Avenue.

Skincare

The road to perfect summer skin is simple with two products for a smooth, well-balanced, and flawless complexion.

Body Time Radiant Skin Refining Cream, 1.2 fl. oz / $22.50

Let’s start with Body Time’s Radiant Glow Skin Refining Cream.

This extremely concentrated formula sloughs away dull, flaky skin and moisturizes with a balanced complex of 8% alpha hydroxy acids including extracts of sugar cane, orange, lemon, apple and willow bark. It’ll renew and refresh, and reveal fresh skin, as well as, reduce the appearance of uneven tone  and age spots by inhibiting excess melanin production and balancing skin. 

A rejuvenating blend of seven essential oils including ylang ylang, palmarosa, neroli, linden blossom, lavender and jasmine helps to exfoliate and revitalize the skin while stimulating cell renewal, increasing the rate of cell turnover and reducing dryness. Sea algae detoxifies by drawing out impurities, stimulates skin’s natural healing abilities, nourishes, protects and improves skin’s elasticity, leaving it silky, smooth and younger looking. Oat beta glucan acts as a humectant, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory agent and forms a protective barrier against pollutants and environmental irritants. Aloe vera leaf juice provides a secondary protective layer, stimulating healing and encouraging the growth of new tissue.

A Perfect World UV Protector SPF 35, 1.4 fl. oz / $27.50

Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is paramount for keeping it looking youthful, smooth, and radiant. Look for multi-action, antioxidant-rich ingredients that help to boost the effectiveness of your sunscreen. Antioxidants play a role in mitigating sun damage by reducing free radicals and skin inflammation that sun exposure generates.

So, try Origins A Perfect World SPF 35 UV Face Protector with White Tea, which is a lightweight, broad spectrum sunscreen loaded with powerful antioxidants White Tea, Maritime Pine, Resveratrol, Arabidopsis Thaliana Extract and Wheat Germ.

Viva La BB Cream!

Viva La BB Cream!

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

BB Cream (aka Blemish, Beblesh or Beauty Balm) has risen to popularity recently in the US after being the secret treasure of Asian beauty aficionados for many, many years.

BB Cream was originally used medically to protect and regenerate skin after laser treatments & surgery, and to provide light coverage for post-procedure scars and redness. It was developed in Germany by a dermatologist in the 1950s.

It was introduced in Korea and quickly spread to Japan in the 1980′s, where it has evolved into a main beauty staple in both places ever since. And then the formidable cream eventually began conquering China, South East Asia, and now has made its way to Europe and the USA.

Today, BB Cream is an all-in-one cream to instantly correct the complexion, balance the skin, and protect its youthful appearance. It combines 3 or 4 products into one:  the anti-aging & moisturizing power of a skincare product with the immediate complexion-enhancing and even-toning properties of a tinted moisturizer, and defends the skin against environmental stress with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. And, in some cases it also helps to brighten and lighten the skin.

A good BB Cream will cover and enhance the complexion without feeling like you’re wearing a mask. Whether you’re looking for sheerness or  need more coverage, I’ve taken a look at some of the best on the market and here’s what I’ve found:

Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream, 1.7 oz. / $29.99

Missha – M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42 PA+++

The M Perfect Cover BB Cream gives an even and natural-looking coverage with the soothing, moisturizing properties of a cream. It is suitable for all skin types including acne-prone skin, and can be used as a makeup base or foundation.

This BB Cream has benefits of both a tinted moisturizer and foundation. Better coverage than a tinted moisturizer, yet lighter weight than a foundation. Can be used alone or with a foundation and powder for greater coverage.

The skin-beneficial ingredients packed into this formula includes Caviar, Algae, Jojoba and Macadamia Oil for ultra-hydration, Collagen and Ceramide for smoothness and plumping effect, and antioxidant stars Rose Hip extract and Squalane. This BB Cream also offers whitening & anti-wrinkle effects with UV Protection SPF 42 PA+++

Missha BB Cream is only available in five ivory/beige shades.

 

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream, 1 fl. oz / $39

Smashbox - Camera Ready BB Cream SPF 35

My personal favorite is Camera Ready BB Cream by Smashbox because they took the original concept of BB Cream and put a twist on it by adding pigment for a wider array of skin colors. This BB Cream primes, protects, perfects, hydrates, controls oil, and gives you a natural, all over radiance.

Loaded with anti-aging peptides, soothing Cucumber, renewing Apple extract, hydrating Barley and Trehalose, and antioxidant-rich Wheat Germ for smoother, softer, younger-looking skin.

You can wear it alone or over your moisturizer or under your foundation depending on what kind of coverage you are seeking. Just remember a pea size  is all you’ll really need, a small amount goes a long way. 5 shades in Fair, Light, Light Medium, Medium, and Dark evens out skin for a flawless finish and SPF 35 for UV protection.

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream has five shades from Light to Dark

Garnier BB Cream, 2.5 fl. oz. / $12.99

Garnier – Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream

One of the most affordable and more sheer formulas, this drugstore brand makes skin appears airbrushed, beautifully smooth and even.  Its light-weight and comfortable texture blends perfectly into skin.

Garnier BB Cream combines intense moisturizing skincare with vitamin C + Mineral Pigments for an instant skin transformation that hydrates, renews radiance, brightens complexion, evens skin tone and blurs imperfections, and protects against harmful effects of the sun with SPF 15 sunscreen.

Available in two shades: light/medium and medium/deep for skin that looks naturally more even, radiant and smooth.

 

Skin79 Super+ Beblesh Balm, 1.4 fl. oz. /$28

Skin79 –  Super Plus BB Cream 

With an intense formula of Sweet Almond Oil, Arbutin, CoQ10, Citrus Unshiu, Green Tea, Caviar, Ceramide, Kava, Sunflower, Purslane, Adenosine, and with SPF 25 PA++, this BB powerhouse decreases the common problems of wrinkling, roughness, dryness, laxity, sallowness, and uneven pigmentation.

Best for those that want a sheer radiance and fast-absorbing light to medium coverage makeup with skin-rich ingredients. No need to use primer or foundation. Most ideal for fair skin or light Asian skin.

Skin79 offers various types of BB to suit the needs of each individual. According to the age, skin types and gender, customers can choose the perfect BB Cream that is ideal to them utilizing premier ingredients like Coenzyme Q10, Green Tea, Mulberry, Arbutin, Cornelian Cherry, Citrus Unshiu, and Goji Berry.

Skin79 also offers one just for men: Homme Triple Action Beblesh Balm, a formula takes care of men’s skin problems all at once. With ingredients for moisture, tightening pores, whitening, wrinkle care, UV block, and slight coverage for acne and blemishes.

Other cosmetic brands such as Lab Series, Etude House/AmorePacific, Dr. Jart, Coogi, and Hanskin have now come out with BB Cream products that are suitable for men too, with the main difference being that these made-for-men creams come in slightly darker shades and offer varieties that don’t offer skin whitening, and some that are waterproof, taking into consideration an active lifestyle. So, if you are looking for more versatility in color and are more active, try a men’s formula BB cream!

Clinique, 3Lab, MAC, Estee Lauder, Dior, Too Faced, Boscia, and Stila also offer their versions of BB Cream here in the United States too.

Note: Newer sunscreens on the market also contain UVA-filters and their protective effect against UVA is measured with PA. PA stands for Protection Grade of UVA. There is currently no uniform measure of UVA absorption, so PA is only a rough indicator of the amount of UVA protection the suncreen offers. There are three grades, namely PA+, PA++ and PA+++. PA+++ offers the most protection. PA+ is adequate for most activities.

 

Under PRESSure

Under PRESSure

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

With all of life’s stresses and pressures, it’s necessary to be well and eat well. By being the best we can be from the inside out, we will be more bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, and beaming with resilience…to bounce back no matter what lemons are thrown in our paths.

That’s why we’re simply mad about, not just any ol’ juicer, but hydraulic juice presses that will keep that, keep that body strong, and that’s the way I like it!

A hydraulic juice press extracts juice containing higher levels of nutrients from freshly ground up fruit and vegetables by squeezing the pulp using 2-4 tons of pressure. This is unlike other (electric) juicers that create oxidation, friction, and heat from a motor, ultimately decreasing and destroying nutrients and enzymes.

The crushing exerted by this pressing method of a hydraulic press will help preserve and collect the most enzymes, minerals and nutrients that would otherwise be left behind in the pulp and in other juicing machines. The pulp that comes out of other electric juicing machines still contain lots of juice. Without a presser, you have no other way of extracting it and good juice is wasted.

A hydraulic juicer produces juice of the highest quality. There is no oxidation involved in the juice pressing process, so your juice can stay fresh up to 3 or 4 days. The juice makes for extremely easy digestion and assimilation of essential nutrients.

Welles (Hydraulic) Juice Press

The hydraulic press machine is simple and less complicated than other juicing machines, manually operated, with no electricity needed, less parts, less things to wear out, and very easy to clean up.

This is how it works: freshly ground up fruits & vegetable is wrapped in mesh or cheese cloth. The purpose of the cloth is to hold this semi-fluid paste or pulp in place. The cloth also acts as a filter allowing juice to be pressed through while containing the ground up pulp inside. Then, utilizing hydraulic pressure to squeeze all the liquid and moisture out of the ground up pulp. This will produce the best quality and quantity of juice.

There are many manual, hydraulic press juicers out there and the cost is well worth the investment of about $300-$400. The Welles/Peoples Juice Press is one of our favorites because of it’s simple, sturdy design and because cleaning the Welles Juice Press is super easy, just slide the tray out along with the press plate and rinse it in warm water. Rinse the pressing cloth and store it in the freezer to keep it sterile.

But if cost is an issue, then look to the web for some crafty DIY-ers that have assembled and constructed affordable homemade versions that make juicing easy on your wallet for about $119, and we think that is just super-cool! Check out My Juice Press for more details.


On THE OUT…(only in) NYC

On THE OUT…(only in) NYC

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

STAY. PLAY. EAT. CHILL.

THE OUT NYC in Manhattan will be New York’s first gay, straight-friendly urban resort located in Hell’s Kitchen steps away from Chelsea and Time Square.

It’s touted as a destination for gay travelers and a social epicenter for the local gay community — a place where gay people, their family and friends can experience the best of lodging, nightlife, food, drink and design.

It’s set to open its doors in March, THE OUT NYC will be moderately priced (starting at $250 a night) and include 105 rooms and three courtyards.

The $30 million project is located at the 512 W. 42nd Street. With lots of open space and glass planned, the views are sure to be ahh-mazing. THE OUT NYC will also house a 5,000 square-foot wellness center/ gym, a spa, and a 24 hour restaurant.

STAY.

Mega Rooms to choose from, no matter your style or income.

Superior In the middle of New York City’s concrete jungle, overlooking lush green courtyards, our Superior (203-215 Sq. Ft) rooms are the perfect retreat after a day or night in the city. With a courtyard & city views and bespoke floor-to-ceiling mirrored headboards and illuminated bedside cubes, our rooms offer elegant minimalism. An ergonomic workspace and WiFi serve your business and personal needs, while our 40” flat-screen TVs equipped with the latest programming technology make surfing the web or downloading Netflix from your bed, simple.

Deluxe Walk into your sophisticated Deluxe room (231-255 sq. ft) with its clean lines and bespoke floor-to-ceiling mirrored headboards and king beds, then open the door to your own mini urban oasis—the Courtyards. All the amenities include their brand of luxury bath products called SPA, an ergonomic desk with WiFi, or escape the computer screen and watch/use the 40” flat-screen TV.

Executive For the business travelers, the Executive room is 280-315 sq. ft with a king bed and all the Deluxe amenities, including open the door to a private terrace or the Courtyard.

One Bedroom Suite Spread out in the 1 BR, 350 sq. ft suites, which have plenty of room for work and play with plush sofas, broad ergonomic desks and oversized closets, and a king size bed and all the amenities.

Also available is the Deluxe Double 242 sq. ft room with two Double Beds…And if you’re feeling thrifty, and social, and want to canoodle with a stranger,  you can opt for a Sleep Share for $99 which will put you in a room with three other people, with your own bed, 22″ TV, privacy curtains and a cubby to store your belongings.

PLAY.

XL Nightclub is New York’s most highly anticipated nightlife venue and re-opening. In this incarnation, it’ll be a sprawling and massive 14,000-square-foot club and 650 person dance floor, and also includes a 100-seat cabaret area, and a lounge. Run by Gay nightlife pioneers John Blair and Beto Sutter, it’s expected to be the biggest, seven night a week club in the city, and will open later this month.

Frequent partygoers who sign up for a membership card can also get free or discounted admission, a 15 percent discount on drinks and discounts on rooms.

EAT.

Great crowds. Great food. Great service. Come in for brunch, lunch, dinner and late-night dining at Kitchen 510 serving New American classics. Brought to you by the founders of the famed eatery nyc, get social with large communal tables. When it’s warm, let us pack you a picnic to eat in the hotel courtyard, or get cozy anytime and we’ll deliver to you in your room.

CHILL.

Whatever your mood, they’ve got an outdoor space for you. It’s what makes this destination, a true urban resort.

 

The Sun Deck: If you want the perfect place to get your tan on or watch an amazing sunset, there’s no need to go outside the city. At The Sun Deck, they say it’s Fire Island meets Manhattan, where boxwood and stucco surround an sunbathing deck. Along one side is a glass reflecting pool with a water room enclosed by cascading curtains of rain.

The Secret Garden: The Secret Garden is tucked inside serene plantings of black bamboo. It’s a quiet place to bring your laptop and a snack. Work or read at our long sturdy tables. It’s also the right place to bring your yoga mat for quiet meditation.

The Great Lawn They say Who needs Central Park? When their Great Lawn offers everything you need to enjoy the great outdoors. The grass is green. The beanbag chairs are soft. There’s enough green space on the Great Lawn for outdoor games or events. With a hilled stage at the north end, it’s the perfect place for a wedding ceremony, cocktail party or press junket. And whatever the occasion, Kitchen 510 can be there to cater your every culinary need.

 

While other sites may have mocked or criticized the hotel before it’s even become a full reality, we here support any idea for cool design and an awesome life in our community. It’s never been so good as it is now to be out and open, and this compound is all that, replete with decadence, voyeurism, and cruising to boot.

 

 

12 Best Kicks for Chicks

12 Best Kicks for Chicks

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

Has your wardrobe got the Winter blues? Well, some high kicks are in order, so step out with some spark just in time for the New Year.

For everyday eleganza or perfect party glitz, we have a stunning selection of must-have, go-to shoes. Whether you don these dazzlers to dress up casual jeans and a tee or pair them with a cocktail dress, our list of the sexiest shoes will keep your look fierce & festive or impeccably chic.

1- Brian Atwood Maniac Metallic Pump

Move over, silver—bronze pushes other metallics aside as the new neutral for 2012. Just like your favorite heirloom jewelry, this antiqued edition of the best-selling Brian Atwood Maniac pump casts a warm glow that works with many colors. A hidden platform gives you an extra boost of height and confidence.

Crackled metallic leather and tonal topstitching highlight fine construction.
1- 1/4″ platform, 5- 1/2″ covered heel feels like 4- 1/4″ Made in Italy.

2- Ruthie Davis Horizon Strappy Sandals

Make a bold statement and buckle in with this Ruthie Davis shiny strappy sandal pump. Adorned with bolts on a turquoise blue heel, you are sure to kick other stappy sandals aside and turn heads.

Available in Black Patent with shining patent leather straps lash across a towering platform: leather upper, leather lining, leather sole, and side buckle closure, or in Black with Gunmetal, and Rose Gold.

5 1/2″ heel, 1 1/4″ platform. Made in Italy.

3- GUESS Billow Slingback Pump

Fun-loving and sassy, these color-blocked, peep-toe slingbacks make a flirty addition to dressed-up looks.

Try them with a party dress for your next soiree and let the compliments roll in.

Pink patent leather with pink glitter color is suede with shiny leather and glitter contrasts with gold accent and heel.

5” stiletto heel and 1 ½” platform. Made in Italy.

4- TopShop Parallel Tiered Wedges

The innovative shape of wedge will add a dash of excitement to any ensemble with TopShop’s premium metallic gold stack tiered platform with skinny straps and tubular front.

Make sure it has plenty of room to shine and get seen by wearing it with short dresses, skirts, and shorts. Metallic tiered wedge heel with platform. 5″ heel height, 100% Leather. Available in black and magenta suede.

5- Diego Dolcini Fanned Zip-Back Sandal

A scene stealer that requires being shown with something short and sexy. Not just a shoe—an object of desire, a work of art. This Diego Dolcini satin showcases fan-pleated chiffon, articulated with two-tone elegance and discerning crystal embellishments. You’ll make a very bold statement with a mishmash of luxury, texture, and wicked style.

Fan-pleated, arced chiffon vamp with Swarovski® crystals sewn on sides, and crisscross satin straps over open toe.
4 1/3″ metal heel. Made in Italy.

6- Jessica Simpson Evannan Colorblock Heel

Use hues to make news and stay chic for seasons in this jewel toned, color blocked high heel featuring sexy cut-outs, double platform elevation, peep toe and back zip.

4-3/4″ heel,  1- 1/8″ platform. Avaliable in Blue, and Pink. Made with Suede/Patent Leather.

 

  7- Sam Edelman Scarlett Pump

Pump up the glam and give your party dress some punk power with spikes and studs as you dance and dine the night away.

Coming or going, this Sam Edelman pumps make an impression with an alluring peep toe conceals the slight platform of a sassy t-strap pump set on a super-slim, metallic stiletto heel. Stud details at heel cap and 5″ heel, it’s best in Egyptian Gold or Pewter

 

8- Bebe Fleur Strappy Platform Sandal

You’re pretty in pink and black and have a life outside work. Take it out for dinner and drinks—you’ll find it makes your favorite jeans even more playful.

Take your resort-chic look up a notch with this Bebe platform sandal, featuring strappy design, glossy cone heel, and soft chiffon flowers down front. Zipper at back. 5.5″ heel with 1.5″ platform.

 

9- Nicholas Kirkwood Suede & Metallic Loafer Pump

Not one for kitten heels? Rock the season’s requisite lady-chic look your own way.

This Nicholas Kirkwood pump exuberantly reinvents the loafer with metallic sheen and a towering heel.

Metallic leather-trimmed suede loafer-pump features dangling tassels and kiltie over peep-toe.

5 1/4″ covered heel with 1″ set-under platform lowers pitch to 4 1/4″. Made in Italy.

10- H by Halston Annice Pump

A statement platform that lifts you up to glimmering heights and let’s your elegance illuminate in this alluring pump.

Feminine with a modern take on the classic Mary Jane that will transition into night with ease.

Available in black featuring an allover glitter design with lace overlay, strap closure, and pointed toe.

Made with 5-3/4″ stiletto heel and 2 1/4″ platform.

11- Caparros Xanto Evening Shooties

Not-so-secret admirers. The Xanto shooties by Caparros is one part pump, one part sheer, and one part bootie.

It will turn heads with their sparkling mesh, peep toe and lace-up detail.

Adding glitter and glamour, this peep-toe evening shooties with 2-eyelet lace-up detail at back comes in Black Sparkle. With 1/4″ covered platform, 4″ covered heel.

Chameleon in Red, Crusader in Black

12- Nine West Polka Dot Chameleon / Crusader

Nothing boring about this basic polka dot Peep toe pump. It’s a heavenly match for a retro-inspired circle skirt and mohair sweater, or complete the look by pairing with different prints and patterns like with bright florals for a more avant-garde effect.

Crusader in Black with bow and buckle detail. With 5″ heel and 1″ platform. Chameleon Polka dot platform sling back sandal with bow and adjustable buckle closure. Cork platform detailing. Available in red or blue with 5.5″ heel and 1.5″ platform.

 

 

When Diamonds and Bling Are A Girl’s Best Friend!

When Diamonds and Bling Are A Girl’s Best Friend!

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor at MOCA at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood

Elizabeth Taylor had a legendary and amazing collection of diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, amethysts, and rubies.

Her jewelry is one of the greatest private collections in the world, with gorgeous pieces by such leading jewelers as Boucheron, Bulgari, Cartier, Chopard, David Webb, Gerard, JAR, Ruser, Schlumberger, Tiffany, and Van Cleef & Arpels.

After an international, limited multi-city tour, Elizabeth Taylor’s bling and other treasures (aka The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor) will culminate in an auction in the next few days at Christie’s New York.

The jewelry up for auction includes La Peregrina, a necklace of rubies, diamonds and a pearl dating to the 16th century, and the so-called Elizabeth Taylor Diamond, which is a 33.19 carat rectangular cut diamond ring. Both were presents from her husband Richard Burton. A Cartier ruby and diamond bracelet, earrings and necklace from Taylor’s third husband, Mike Todd, will also be for sale, as will a pear-shaped 16.98 carat diamond ring that was a gift from Michael Jackson.

Diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies are some of her favorite bling!

 

Chanel Ball Gown & Cape

Among the collection, one of my favorites from the exhibition is a one-of-a-kind, couture ball gown. The Chanel silver and ivory gown with gossamer cape (which also includes shoes and matching clutch purse for the auction, but not included with the MOCA exhibit) was designed by acclaimed, modernist French women’s designer Coco Chanel. Elizabeth Taylor wore this ensemble to the Royal Film screening of her and Richard Burton’s The Taming of the Shrew in London in 1967.

Also up for auction are 400 pieces of haute couture that include outfits, handbags, vintage costume jewelry, shoes and belts that Taylor owned and were created by Valentino, Givenchy, Halston, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, Hermès, Fendi, Stavropoulous, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Paco Rabanne, Gaultier, Ferre, Tiziani, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada also will be sold.

 

An autographed Michael Jackson photo to Taylor makes it to the auction block

68 of Ms. Taylor’s most iconic fashions will be presented in a black-tie Evening Sale of her haute couture collection on December 14th, followed by 326 additional items on December 15 of her other fashions and accessories. Fine arts, paintings by Andy Warhol & David Hockney, furniture and film memorabilia (including her scripts, movie posters, and her two Best Acting Oscars) will also be on auction, and the sale of her vast, outstanding jewelry collection will precede the fashion and accessories auction, starting today December 13th.

In her book, My Love Affair with Jewelry, Elizabeth wrote “I’m fortunate to have some very important pieces of jewelry. I don’t believe I own any of the pieces. I believe that I am their custodian, here to enjoy them, to give them the best treatment in the world, to watch after their safety, and to love them.” She also wrote, “As I look at some of my jewels I realize what a very lucky girl I am.”

Diamonds and Bling are truly a girl’s best friend, and Elizabeth Taylor had some of the world’s best!

Me with Elizabeth Taylor's Oscar for the brilliant verbal sparfest that is Who is Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

 

 

Bright Lights, Big Beauty, Great Skin!

Bright Lights, Big Beauty, Great Skin!

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

I got you covered from head to (mistle)toe with a few tips to help you give good face and rev up your look while navigating through the upcoming holidays and well into Winter.

Simple, easy, and quick fixes to make you stunning and to get you glowing!

SKIN HYDRATOR

To prevent your skin from losing its luster, enliven yourself and boost & recharge your skin.  It’s essential to use a slightly rich face cream, or a facial oil to restore moisture and fortify a parched, dry, and cold-busted complexion instantly with long-lasting hydration.

 

Kiehl's Rosa Arctica, $60 / 1.7 oz.

Kiehl’s Rosa Arctica is that special powerhouse cream to get you through the cold, Wintery months! It delivers energy to skin allowing cellular activity to reawaken.

It simultaneously protects skin from future damage as the skin transforms to a more youthful beginning – reduced lines and wrinkles, improved firmness, and a dramatic restoration of hydration.

This skin blockbuster contains Rosa Arctica (Haberlea rhodopensis) aka regeneration flower, which is known to survive up to 31 months in a dry-out cycle, by falling into anabiosis. When proper moisture conditions are restored, it returns to life within hours and is able to bloom fully again. On skin, it works to jolt cellular vitality, stimulating skin’s own collagen and elastin production.

This rich, dense formula provides instant hydration and can be used day and night.  It is also empowered with fantastic lipids like squalane, cocoa and shea butters, and essential fatty acids such as oleic, stearic and palmatic acid to help replenish skin’s barrier.

Emulsify the cream by rubbing it between your fingers to liquefy it and increase its spreadability and absorption capabilities. It truly lasts all day, locks in moisture, and will make your skin feel moist, firmer, and rejuvenated.

ILLUMINATOR / LUMINIZER 

The magic drops for me are using a luminizer or a facial oil, it’s a great way to light the skin up and emphasize glowing skin!

Illuminators and luminizers are sheer, light-reflecting liquids that enhance your skin with a dewy, incandescent, and sometimes shimmering appearance. It can be infused into your moisturizer or foundation, or used alone.

DHC Olive Virgin Oil

Applying a facial oil to the skin helps impart the glow that everyone wants—the kind that’s a healthy shine, dewy and not greasy.

Universally known as the good oil, the Flor de Aceite (the more premier & purest form of olive oil) in DHC Virgin Olive Oil is my secret finish in skincare. I’ve been using it for almost 13 years and I only use a drop of the olive oil and pat on my skin to capture the light and give me that go-to glow.

It’s simply the best and effortlessly melts into all complexions including oily without leaving any greasy residue creating luminous, light-reflecting skin. You can also add a drop to your moisturizer for some added oomph to lock in moisture and guard against moisture loss. It’s also great for repairing and healing stressed skin.

Compared to others face oils on the market at almost the double the price, DHC Olive Virgin Oil is certified organic and great quality and good value at $39 for 1 fl. oz, just remember a drop goes a long way!

Lorac Oil-Free Luminizer

Lorac Oil-Free Luminizer, $28 / .9 fl. oz

To  illuminate your face, or to highlight your cheek or brow bones, use just a smidgen of Lorac Oil-Free Luminizer in Pearl or Gold.

This 100% oil-free luminizer adds an incandescent sheen to brighten the face, providing an instant pick-me-up and immediate glow. Infused with skin beneficial ingredients like chamomile, comfrey, and aloe to calm, soothe, and hydrate the complexion.

L2 (Gold) makes medium and dark skin tones glow without looking too slick, or glaring, while L1 (Pearl) is a highlighting liquid for fair skin.

Wear it alone very sparingly, but I recommend to mix just a tiny drop with your moisturizer (or foundation) for some real, healthy-looking radiance & brightness.

 

 

The Haute List: A Few of Our Favorite Things 2011

The Haute List: A Few of Our Favorite Things 2011

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

We sure like to know & tell, and our YES list is full of fascinating & favorite things from 2011. 

More cool stuff, people, and music that we emphatically endorse and you can proudly enjoy…guilt-free!

#1 Pretty

The internet provides the real must-see TV with the belly-laughing & compelling web series, Pretty.

Pretty is well, “pretty pretty” as Dawn Davenport would say from the cult classic, Female Trouble. It’s so wrong, it must be right…a drop down, drag out, John Waters-style (pre- and post-Divine) twisted hilarity for the masses and a hidden gem that you may or may not be already watching.

Here is the premise of the series, Michael Champagne (Sam Pancake), a proud pageant dad, only wants to see his 6 year old daughter Annette win the Miss Star Eyes Pageant. It’s not about who wins or loses, it’s about who’s PRETTY.

The kiddie pageant world is so cleverly mocked and ridiculed for this laugh out loud show which centers around Michael’s daughter Annette “Dakota” LaChondra Champagne (excellently played by the very grown Stacy McQueen) and the misadventures of her crazy, mixed up family.

It’s a funny and well written spoof with a stellar cast. Guest stars have included Joan Van Ark, Genie Francis, Kimberly Elise Cox, and Kirsten Vangsness as Meredith Champagne. Created, written, and directed by Steve Silverman and produced by Velvet Candy Entertainment.

Now in its 3rd season (season 2 was on fire!), be sure to watch and support it online at http://www.prettytheseries.com especially if you’re a fan of Sordid Lives, Toddlers and Tiaras, and Absolutely Fabulous, then you’re in pretty darn good company.

Check out an episode here:

 

 #2 Niki & The Dove

Niki & the Dove are Malin Dahlström and Gustaf Karlöf of Sweden. Getting together in February 2010, Malin and Gustaf have spent the time since writing together, figuring out just how pop music works and then discovering new ways to break it.

With their 3rd EP The Drummer, they have delivered great things. Niki & The Dove’s songs are full of magic and light but with an unsettling darkness hidden beneath the surface. It’s pop music but a world away from the production line aesthetics of much modern chart music.

It’s kinda like a cool explosion of Kate Bush mixed with Stevie Nicks over restless electro and decadent synthpop beats…super sexy and wicked!

 

#3 Dried Green Mangoes

Dried Green Mango is the new fried green tomato. This new take on the classic dried mango has been making us salivate with pure delight.

Made from mangoes that are picked while they are mature – fully grown – though not yet ripe. Much of the world’s mango is picked at this stage. As it travels to its final destination, it continues to ripen, eventually developing the sweetness for which mangoes are renowned.

To make this unique snack, when the mature-yet-not-quite-ripe green mangoes are picked, rather than being shipped and allowed to ripen, they are peeled, sliced, sweetened and dried within 24 hours of harvest. This process results in a very tart, yet wonderfully sweet snack that’s really unlike anything else we’ve tasted.


#4 The Beautiful People

Calling all GaGa monsters and Nicki Minaj followers, it’s time to get schooled on the original style setter, Diana Vreeland.

The subject of the must-have fashion book called Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has To Travel (and upcoming biopic/documentary film) by Lisa Immordino Vreeland celebrates the life of the high priestess of fashion, and chronicles Diana Vreeland’s rich life and 50 years of international fashion.

Diana Vreeland (1903–1989) was an American original whose impact on fashion and style was legendary. Beginning in 1936, when she became a fashion editor at Harper’s Bazaar, and as editor-in-chief at Vogue, Vreeland established herself as a controversial visionary with an astonishing ability to invent and discover fashion ideas, designers, personalities, and photographers. She started the Costume Institute, the Metropolitan Museum of Art department responsible for its inventive fashion exhibitions.

Diana in her Park Avenue Red Sitting Room that she wanted to look like a garden...a garden in hell.

She is even more vital and relevant today than at the time of her death in 1989. While her reputation in the fashion world is renowned, the actual breadth of her career and extent of her reach is immeasurable.

The true gold standard of fashion and style credibility, Diana Vreeland is responsible for launching many iconic careers, establishing countless trends that have stood the test of time, and bringing an unprecedented and incontrovertible perspective to the fashion world that has scarcely been seen since.

Real quoteworthy, she coined the terms “Pizazz”“Youthquake” and “Beautiful People”.  A woman with many brilliant thoughts and phrases she is known for expressing the following: “The best thing about London is Paris”“Never fear being vulgar, just boring” and my favorite “You gotta have style.  It helps you get up in the morning.  It’s a way of life.  Without it you’re nobody.”

Pick up the book, it’s truly fierce and fascinating!  Retails at $62 and published by Harry N. Abrams Books. An upcoming Diana Vreeland exhibition at Venice’s Fortuny Museum also opens in March 2012.

#5 Sconces

Jonathan Adler wall sconce

Yes, I meant sconces.. and not scones! Getting under great light never looked so good until now.

New styles and contemporary designs in home lighting update this interior staple with coolness in metal, ceramic, and even Murano glass that offers distinctive styling.

 

alita sconce

Unique curves and an elegant white glaze finish give the Jonathan Adler Ceramic Reform Sconce its fashionable appeal. Body is crafted from ceramic and covered with a soft white linen shade with rolled edge hem.

Uttermost Alita Collection Silver Leaf Wall Sconce has stylish silver leaf finished metal strips that strike a kinetic pattern up front. An antique stain add drama. A champagne fabric inner shade promises warm illumination.

#6 Revenge

Revenge was all the rage on television and it was a big trend. ABC’s Revenge, Sons of Anarchy, and Once Upon A Time were the most blatant with nothing as you’d expect, lots of drama, and more plot twists and turns.

Getting back at someone or making someone pay, while not the most coveted traits to aspire to or living zen-ly, it did inject new life onto the small screen and the major networks with a healthy dose of obsession, betrayal, intrigue, flashbacks, and backstabbing thrown in that captivated and kept you coming back for more.

Here’s hoping the Ewing clan and Dallas reboot slated for 2012 is equally promising with a more karma-is-a-bitch attitude, and perhaps a more comedic, bigger the hair the closer to God, Texas-sized parody! I’ll keep my fingers crossed with wishful thinking for the latter (or I’ll just tune into instead to other big remake In Living Color on Fox which we know will be funny).

Industrie Magazine since its inception in 2009

#7 Industrie Magazine

If you’re serious about fashion (like WE are), then Industrie is the no-nonsense magazine dedicated to the major players in style. It’s a real front row and in-depth backstage look into fashion.

Industrie aims to shift focus away from current collections and trends and provide a considered insight into the culture of fashion. This magazine is unique because it documents the individuals who influence fashion and critically examines the ideas which shape it.

Industrie goes behind the scenes to chronicle the personalities, visionaries, stories, power brokers and defining moments in fashion and takes readers beyond the glitz and gloss and delves right into the heart or guts of fashion with thoughtful discussions and fresh, exclusive interviews intertwined with snapshots, editorials, and short articles.

Industrie magazine is published twice a year.

#8 VERAMEAT

VERAMEAT is for the adventurous…if you’re looking for some badass jewelry, iconic and twisted pieces, often inspired by animals and popular culture then you’ll most definitely feel this.

Each piece of jewelry mirrors a self-sufficient life form with a sculptural presence. Hand-crafted in New York City from such fine materials as ecologically sound recycled silver and pure 14k gold, VERAMEAT designs are artfully refined contemporary heirlooms to inspire your own individual flair.

VERAMEAT is Vera Balyura, a teller of winding tales in search of the extraordinary. Born in Ukraine, she recalls woodcarving with her grandfather, horseback riding in Utah & moving to New York to be a high fashion model all before the age of 14. Each design reflects a personal (yet universal) inspiration—from traveling the world, making music, maritime sagas, botanical structures of light, futuristic visions of rogue spacemen in beer, and before history.

#9 Scentillating

34 Boulevard Saint Germain

Spice up your life and stimulate your senses with two good aromas for men…34 & Atelier Vanille Insensée are scents that truly last all day, but manage to not overpower. I fell in love with both of these at first sniff.

34 Boulevard Saint Germain by Diptyque is a rich and solid fragrance which is suitable for men and women, named after its first Paris boutique location.

Vanille Insensée

It’s a fragrance that has an innovative and complex signature that is neither feminine nor masculine. This scent combines black currant, tuberose, and eucalyptus and was developed around a chypre backbone, the base notes of wood and balms add comfort and create addiction.

Vanille Insensée by Atelier Cologne has an electrical current runs through the subtle sweetness of Madagascar vanilla, jasmine and fresh lime to bond with rich oak moss, woods and spicy coriander. It’s fresh, and not sweet.

Handcrafted leather cap, and removable pump allows for splash or spray use. Atelier Cologne’s Colognes Absolues are couture aromas which are concentrated formulas with a distinctive and long-lasting presence.

The Black Belles. Photo: Joshua Black Wilkins

#10 The Black Belles

“I wear black on the outside because black is how I feel on the inside” Morrissey once sang, as I and millions of others in a seven nation army sometimes feel.

With jet black hair, makeup, and clothes, The Black Belles are enchanting, kick-ass rock n roll Joan Jett would be proud of, goth/rockabilly girls and garage rock!

Jack White (of The White Stripes, The Raconteurs, and The Dead Weather) has his signature sound all over this album and his influence is everywhere. The Black Belles’ bewitching, garage-rock sound is simple & energetic with crunching, wah wah guitar riffs, fuzz pop distortion, thumpy drums, and dark emotive vocals.

This all-female band are the cat’s meow! There’s no one out there like them right now, and we can’t wait to see what else they have up their black velvet and lace sleeves. Their self-titled debut album is out now on Third Man Records.

 

 

Love. Angel. Music. Baby…Mad Mini Bambino Style

Love. Angel. Music. Baby…Mad Mini Bambino Style

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

Missoni is so very last month…and if you thought Missoni flew off the shelves and the racks, then hold on because Target continues it’s cheap chic dominance…this time for all the kiddies with Gwen Stefani and her Harajuku Mini for Target collection.

Gwen Stefani’s playful & charming Japanese & punk-inspired clothing finally gives all the bambinos and tweens a very cool place in the world to be seen and be just too cute for words, and with prices parents can smile about. The collection includes more than 80 exclusive fashion items and accessories – from plaid-print jumpers, fuzzy hoodies and tuxedo-style onesies to bow-adorned headbands, faux-leather jackets and trendy punk pants.

Available in sizes from 6 months to 16 years, apparel and accessories prices range from $3.99 to $29.99. Big fun apparel and accessories for girls and boys, infants and toddlers, and tween girls!

The first installment of this highly anticipated, fashion-forward ongoing collection will be available today at Target stores while the second installment of the ongoing Harajuku Mini for Target collection will be available starting December 25.


Living La Vida Vegan

Living La Vida Vegan

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

I love animals, just not for breakfast, lunch, or dinner anymore, nor for the snacks in between.

My journey to la vida veganista (& vegetarianism) has been a clear choice for me and almost seamless because of the exceptional choices and fabulicious flavors (minus just a few missteps when traveling and dining out). While it might not be an economic or unfathomable choice for most, it’s definitely one to consider.

So, open your mouth nice and wide and try some meatless meals this October to participate in Vegetarian Awareness Month. And—if you open your mind just a little bit, you just might find a great meal without meat in it a little more often.

Let’s suppose you’ve decided to eat less meat, or are contemplating it. Here is a list of some of the best, and highly-recommended veggie-friendly and vegan food havens from the left coast to the east and some spots in between:

Los Angeles

Flore 

This Silverlake jaunt is a vegan resto that uses organic ingredients, and has tasty gluten- and soy-free options for those with food sensitivities.

A favorite of mine for brunch (and now din din), it also has a delicious and much more extensive dinner menu. The “Chicken & Waffles” is my go-to Sunday morning must-have. It’s lightly-breaded and seared faux chicken served atop potatoes and smothered in mushroom gravy…hmm hmm good! Other brunch goodness includes the “Classic Tempeh Reuben”, grilled & marinated tempeh served on rye with layers of cashew & tofu cheese, sauerkraut, and 1000 Island.

For dinner I’ve had the “Eastsider Tacos”, seasoned seitan on stone ground tortillas and topped with cashew cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and with a side of cilantro cream, pico de gallo, and black beans and brown rice. You must try vegan carrot cake and chocolate strawberry cake, they’re delish too.

I’ll most definitely be back to discover even more vegan treasures there.

Flore is located at 3818 W. Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90026. Hours vary, Mon: 11am – 4pm, Tues – Fri: 11am – 10pm, Weekends: 10am – 10 pm. Breakfast served until 1 pm.

 

Native Foods Cafe

Native Foods Cafe is a vegan restaurant designed to meet the needs of today’s discriminating, health-conscious diners looking for great-tasting food… both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.  Native Foods was founded 17 years ago by acclaimed vegan chef Tanya Petrovna and its success can be measured by its 6 locations in Southern California (and a 7th in Encinitas opening soon), 3 in Chicago, and in Portland, Oregon opening in November.

This is where I go for their delectable “Ensalada Azteca Salad” (with fresh avocado, cucumber and jicama salsa atop quinoa, romaine and Chef Tanya’s award winning mango lime vinaigrette and finished off with currants, toasted pumpkin seeds and cilantro), the “Greek Gyro” (thinly sliced Native Peppered Seitan sautéed with shallots on quinoa, steamed vegetables, and kale with lemon garlic sauce and hummus, served with grilled flatbread), and the “Chicken Run Ranch Burger” (crispy-battered Native Chicken, ranch dressing, romaine, carrots, and onions). Native Chicken is made from free range soy, wheat and pea protein.

They create their cheese by creatively blending cashews, sunflower seeds and other nuts to create textures from creamy to crumbly, and all desserts are dairy-free, cholesterol-free and refined sugar-free.

And while you’re there, do not forget the “Crispy Sweet Potatoe Fries” (lightly fried in canola and seasoned with curry), the “Watermelon Agua Fresca” (fresh watermelon juice with a touch of mint and sweetened with organic agave), and the “Chocolate Love Pie” (thick and lustfully creamy chocolate filling in a delicious spiced almond crust).

I’ve had almost everything here, and nothing has ever disappointed. This is definitely one of the best vegan places in Los Angeles!

And check out some other L.A. vegan goodies previously reported The Fast & The Savory at Tangerine Living.

San Francisco

Gracias Madre

Gracias Madre is serving 100% Organic Mexican cuisine in the heart of La Mission in my beloved hometown of San Francisco. Gracias Madre is vegan, and the menu is seasonal and determined by what is currently available at their organic (Biodynamic method) Be Love Farm in Pleasants Valley, California. It was started by  Terces and Matthew Engelhart (of popular and renowned Café Gratitude).

Gracias Madre’s seasonal menu respects the Earth and her cycles and showcases local fruit and vegetables at their peak so that our food is fresh, vibrant and flavorful. They believe that eating local, organic food prepared simply and with love is medicine for both the body and spirit.

I love it here, it always feel warm, authentic, and well, home-y! I can never get enough of their Empanada (homemade pastry filled with grilled plantains, served on a bed of spicy mole sauce, topped with cashew cream), the Pozole (traditional hominy stew in an ancho-chile broth), the Tamal (stoneground heirloom masa steamed in the husk filled with sautéed zucchini and onions, served with beans and escabeche), Be Love Farm Peach Cobbler (served warm with Dulce de Leche Ice Cream) …and the cocteles (the sangria, mojito, and margaritas made with agave and soju are simply irresistable!)

They offer the non-GMO varieties of heirloom corn to make their handmade tortillas and tamales, and all of the cheeses, milks and ice creams are made using nuts.

Gracias Madre is located at 2211 Mission Street, San Francisco, California. Open 11am-11pm, 7 days a week.

Golden Era Vegetarian Restaurant

Golden Era was introduced to me by a good friend last year when I went home for a visit. A group of us ate there together and I was amazingly surprised how mouthwatering and lush the cuisine was…it’s one of the reasons I eventually became vegan! I never thought food could taste this good.

The freshly prepared vegan dishes feature the bold and delicious flavors of Aulacese (Vietnamese), Chinese, Indian, and Thai and everything is prepared from scratch daily and with only the freshest premium vegan ingredients…and no MSG, milk, or egg.

Golden Era is in the epicenter of the TL, the Tenderloin( or if you want to be bourgie, you’d say Tender Nob). So, by no means is it in a fancy locale, but let me tell you the food is downright ambrosial. What’s good is their specialty dishes “Happy Tamarind” with slices of soy “beef” cooked in sweet tamarind sauce and served w/ vegan chips, “The Queens Chicken” with soy “chicken” caramelized in sweet chili soy sauce and embedded on lettuce, tomato, and cucumber, and the “Pho” with Vietnamese rice noodle soup w/ organic tofu, soy protein, bean sprouts, and fresh basil.

Great taste and even better prices always wins… And, it’s so yummy too!

Golden Era Vegetarian Restaurant is located at 572 O’Farrell Street, San Francisco, California 94102. Open Wed-Mon 11am – 9pm, and closed Tuesdays.

New York

Blossom

Blossom serves organic vegan cuisine in a chic atmosphere, and encourages a vegan lifestyle with its principles and the 5 locations in New York which includes, their two restaurants Blossom and Cafe Blossom, two fast-food shops called Blossom Du Jour, and Cocoa V, their vegan chocolate boutique and wine cafe.

Blossom uses fresh organic ingredients from local farms and small distribution companies and all their dishes are animal free.

There’s many tasty eats here and the noteworthy standouts are: “Porcini Cigars” with hand-rolled phyllo filled with porcini mushrooms, almonds, and ground tempeh, served over a cashew pesto, finished with pomegranate seeds, “Seitan Skewers” with bbq’d seitan meat, onions and peppers, jicama carrot coleslaw, “Southern Seitan Sandwich” with spiced breaded seitan, caramelized onions, avocado, chipotle aioli on rosemary focaccia, “Soy Bacon Cheeseburger” with caramelized onions, tapioca cheddar, soy bacon, grilled mushrooms, lettuce, tomato, chipotle aioli on a sesame bun, and “Warm Spinach Salad” with tempeh bacon, crumbled soy filet, spincah, grilled Asian pear, and a citrus dressing.

If you’re ever in NYC, check out any one of their various spots…it’s well worth the trip!

Miami

Mac’n Food Truck

This is Miami’s first (and maybe only) 100% vegan eaterie on wheels that serves up a twist on soul food classics and where all cheeses and meats are plant-based alternatives.

Catch them if you can because the Soyrizo & Pepperjack Mac N’ Cheese is TDF, and the Pulled “Pork” Jackfruit Sandwich is my favorite, and the Sweet Potato Fries and the Portobello, Pea & Mozzarella Mac N’ Cheese are pretty darn good too.

All cheeses and meats are plant-based alternatives, and all of their sides are gluten-free, some soy-free & we have gluten-free noodles on hand at all times.  They have a dedicated GF (gluten-free) fryer, as well as pans & cooking utensils.

Small selection of eats, but it’s fresh and mostly made to order, and the great price is well worth any wait. Since it’s always on the move, locations vary, check Mac’n Food Truck website for more info.

Choices

Choices Cafe is an eaterie with all kinds of Organic, Mexican, Americana, and Thai goodness…something good for all tastes, and eating philosophies. It’s located in the heart of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood, and recently I discovered this cute cafe on my last visit to Miami.

Here you’ll find some creative and lovingly prepared foods, made from fresh and organic fruits and veggies.  The menu varies with daily specials and continues to grow and evolve, but they’ve created three menus to choose from “Soul-ution” with meatless alternatives to traditional foods like pizza, lasagne, burgers, and pancakes , “Raw-volution,” serves up wholesome raw foods like Pad Thai, a sprout salad, and “Evo-lution,” with healthier vegan meals like tacos, burrito, and salads.

Try the Tacos or Burrito with soy chorizo, so very yummy! I can’t wait to go back on my next visit to Florida, and see what other goodies they come up with.

What’s great here besides the great selections, but that everyone can individualize their salad, sandwich, burrito, juice or smoothie, or select from a wonderful range a ready-made plates of vegetarian sushi, rich salads and even vegan pizza if they want to.

Choices Cafe is located at 379 SW 15th Road, Miami, Florida. Open Tues – Fri 11:30am – 8:00pm, Weekend 9am – 9pm, and closed on Monday.

 

 

 

 

HAIRraiser

HAIRraiser

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

Creation by Carlo Bay. Photo by Sergei Chirikov


Make no mistake, The Alternative Hair Show is the real hair battle spectacular!

The 29th Annual Alternative Hair Show in Moscow’s Kremlin wigged out with the most masterful, fierce, wacky, and innovative tresses to hit the runway.

It’s an incredible show that mixes hair, performance, music, and fashion that stuns and inspires audiences around the world.

Not only is it a display for drama and the most hair-raising styles as an art form, The Alternative Hair Show promotes awareness and raises money for research and people with leukemia and lymphoma.

This year’s theme was called Illusion, and the participating hair teams had been asked to use this concept for their shows, and certainly they showed us their creativity and flair for the flashy.

Design by A-Twins of Hungary. Photo by Sergei Chirikov


Check out video scenes from some of the hair hopper styling teams:



Some of the standouts this year were by the teams of Mario Krankl, Carlo Bay, Mone, Saco, Persona Lab, Dream Team Dolores, Sanrizz, TIGI, and Klaus Peter Ochs.

If you missed you the show in Moscow, the next Alternative Hair Show lands in London at the Royal Albert Hall on October 16th.

Try This at Home!

Try This at Home!

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

The Maker Faire soldered, forged, threaded, and stamped its way into New York to celebrate all things arts, crafts, engineering, science, and the DIY lifestyle.

Tangerine Living was there to check out all the freaks n geek coolness, latest MacGyver-style gadgets, modern robots and hobby robotics, and greener life capabilities.

Maker Faire is the premier event for grassroots American innovation. As the World’s Largest DIY Festival, this two-day family friendly fair has something for everyone. It’s a showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness and a celebration of the Maker spirit. A collection of tents, booths, exhibits, artists, and demonstrations to inspire and invent new ways to live, work, play, and dress.

Highlights this year include the 3-D Printer Village, an exhibition which features printer models designed by companies like Shop Bot, Ultimaker, MakerBot, and uber-hobbyist John Abella. These machines and printers are capable of making jewelry, furniture, models and prototypes, toys, and even cookies and cheese treats…yep, that’s right!

Here’s some other cool stuff we saw:

Arduino

Arduino gadget

Arduino is another featured tech-y wonder that was prominently displayed. It’s an open-source electronics prototyping platform based on flexible, easy-to-use hardware and software.

Arduino is intended for artists, designers, hobbyists, and anyone interested in creating interactive objects or environments. In short, Arduino is a little gadget that you can use to connect your computer to electronic projects.

 

Vertical Theory

Solutions for small scale farming in an urban landscape through vertical farming created by Karen MacKay.

Vertical farming for city living

more Vertical Theory

SketchChair

A software tool that allows anyone to easily design, build, and share their own digitally fabricated furniture that is original and unique.

How to SketchChair


Homebrew Biodiesel

DIY Biodiesel

 

Homebrew Biodiesel

Ben Jorritsma showed us how to convert used cooking oil into fuel for use in unmodified diesel engines, modified heating oil burners, and tuned turbine engines, and how to make your own processor using commonly available hardware.

 

 

 

 

 

A homemade system, consisting of a water heater and several holding tanks, transesterification, and further washing and drying, can convert WVO (vegetable oil waste) into biodiesel fuel that’s ready-to-use in cars, trucks, and farming equipment.

 

 

 

Solar Sewing

Solar Sewing

Paul Nosa draws and designs on his Singer sewing machine by using alternative energy like solar power and bicycle electric generator to power up his machine called the Solar Sewing Rover, a portable sewing machine table made entirely from aluminum.

A sewing machine (without the light on) is rated at about 50 watts and consumes 1 amp every hour. You can be lucky to get about 4 1/2 amps from the sun for the entire day in a really sunny locale, that’s 4 1/2 hours of sewing per day with just the solar panel, while 10 minutes of biking produces 1 hour of sewing.

Steampunk Hatter

Steampunk Hatter at Maker Faire NYC

Handmade leather hats and headgear with a retro future vibe that developed out of the burgeoning West Coast steampunk movement.

Steampunk Hatter draws design inspiration from various San Francisco Bay Area subcultures including Goth, circus, festival, kink, and rock music.

They are a group of designers and steampunk enthusiasts from Santa Cruz that prides themselves on design and craftsmanship using only top-notch American materials.

 

Maker Faire was created by Make Magazine in the San Francisco area in 2006, and since then it has expanded into other places like Austin, Texas, Rhode Island, North Carolina, the UK, Canada, and New York. Make Magazine is dedicated to your right to tweak, hack, and bend any technology to your own will. 

 

The Men All Pause

The Men All Pause

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

London Fashion Week is in full bloom this week and the men took center stage yesterday with the collections for Spring 2012 from a few of the new and established design darlings.

designer Lou Dalton

Lou Dalton

If you reference Morrissey and the Smiths to describe your signature guy as “This Charming Man” then you’ve already won me over big time! Lou stamps her oh-so-British sportswear collection with a twist and mostly in black, another plus plus!

Her inspiration for the spring 2012 collection was from the play “The Pitmen Painters, the UK Miners’ Strike of 1984-1985, and Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake” and can be seen in the trousers, cargo shorts, and jackets. Other colors on the palette include, navy, camel, and cream.

J.W. Anderson

J.W. Anderson

J.W. Anderson believes things can be borrowed from a man to a woman and from a woman to a man, and his inspirations for this collection are a confident and stripped back look underpinned by the use of artisan techniques mixed with modern technical fabrics, and also influenced by the work of American artist Robert Rauschenberg.

He plays with color, bold prints, and futuristic & geometric shapes on sleeveless shirts, narrow trousers, mesh shorts, jersey tops, and fitted knits and cardigans that double as bottoms.

The collection of J.W. Anderson

KTZ: Kokon To Zai

Kokon To Zai aka KTZ is a collaboration of three designers: Koji Maruyama, Sasko Bezovski and Marjan Pejoski. They are the collective behind the retail network of cult stores Kokon to Zai, combining music and fashion that’s based in London and Paris.

KTZ thinks of themselves as a tribe of people who think a little differently and this collection has bold, colorful pieces with African tribal influences mixed with black to share their multicultural & layered style and bright-eyed vision to the world.

KTZ: Kokon To Zai

 

Fast Food (n)Asian

Fast Food (n)Asian

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

Are you looking other fast, quick alternatives to the standard burger, fish filet, and chicken sandwich? Well, as appetites for more savory flavors and Asian cuisine grows, so does our choices for fast dining.

So move over Yoshinoya Beef Bowl and Panda Express, there’s been some new kids on the block and surely making their presence known.

KyoChon

KyoChon is the new KFC…Korean Fried Chicken!

KyoChon signature fried chicken

As the saying goes, “Ain’t no thing but a chicken wing”, and the KyoChon wings reign supreme here, and other tasty Korean delights are the specialty of this popular destination in New York City and Los Angeles. If you love Soy-Garlic fried chicken, Bul-Gogi, Sal Sal, pickled daikon radish, and Korean fiery red-hot Chili Sauce, then you’ve come to the right place.

KyoChon, started in Korea in 1991, has established more than 1,000 restaurants in Korea, China and 10 restaurants in the U.S., including its flagship restaurant in Manhattan, and created the double-frying and hand-brushing techniques that ensure exceptionally crispy chicken with unforgettable flavor.

Jollibee

Jollibee serves up fast food Filipino-style. Their Filipino-inspired dishes specializes in fried chicken, burgers, spaghetti, and desserts.

Chickenjoy is a Jollibee specialty, it’s their crispy, yet juicy fried chicken available in original and spicy. Other Filipino signature food fare include the Spam burger, Palabok Fiesta (pancit noodle dish), and the Banana Langka (jackfruit) pie.

oh so sweet Halo Halo

Jollibee landed in the United States in 1998 and has 600+ outlets in the Philippines, across Asia, which also includes 25 fast food eateries here in the U.S.- mostly on the West Coast, and 1 in Queens, New York.

Most Americans are more familiar with other popular Asian foods like Chinese, Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese. Both Jollibee and KyoChon help to broaden the range with Filipino and Korean treats.

But these fast foodies better watch out because word on the street is that Steve Ells’ natural and organic Chipotle Mexican Grill is about to jump into the game with their version of Asian fusion and fast-casual called ShopHouse Southeast Asian Kitchen.

Freshen Up for Fall

Freshen Up for Fall

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

Everyone sweats, that’s just a fact of life.

Sweating is a natural body function that helps to regulate temperature during hot weather, physical activity, and exercise. Whenever we sweat, toxins that have been trapped by the skin and nearby tissues are transported outward.

While human perspiration is largely odorless, when microscopic bacteria that lives naturally on your skin mixes with sweat, they multiply quickly, often resulting in quite a distinctive scent…or as some may say, a stink.

But, whether you sweat a little, or a whole lot, you probably care less about the “why” and are more interested in the “how”…how to get rid of the funk!

There are two types of products that assist with perspiration. Antiperspirants often contain aluminum chloride, a chemical that blocks the pores to prevent and reduce sweating. The other is a deodorant. While deodorants do not prevent sweating, they mask the smell of bacteria on your skin really well and just as effectively without blocking the pores.

I am more of a proponent for deodorants and body sprays than antiperspirants, as the body sweats for a reason, and is an essential function of the healthy human body to cleanse itself of toxins.

Here’s the 10 best deodorants and tools to help keep you fresh and free from odor with sniff-worthy scents, great protection, indomitable essential oils, and crisp fragrances with choice ingredients free from parabens, petroleum, mineral oil, or artificial colors.

1- Tom’s Of Maine Long Lasting Deodorant Stick

A regular staple of a legion of loyal followers myself included, Tom’s of Maine was one of the first in the natural care market, and is still a force to be reckoned with. I’ve used their deodorant for many, many years.

It’s all-powerful formula uses Hops which inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria, and Zinc Ricinoleate (sourced from castor beans and zinc) is known to help trap odor molecules and absorb bad smells, while its natural fragrances of essential oils and blends helps to mask odor.

Added features: With various fresh scents, standouts include Calendula, and the new Mountain Spring and Beautiful Earth. It glides on well without stickiness or a messy residue…and its use of natural fragrance carriers of glycerin and coconut oil help to enhance the stick. 2.25 oz. / $4.99. Available at Tom’s Of Maine and most national market retailers.

2- Kiss My Face Liquid Rock/ Active Life Stick in Cucumber Green Tea

I love this mainly because of the cucumber and green tea fusion that sets it apart from most other deodorants and sprays, and also for it’s liquid mineral crystal roll-on, and it’s “I can be confident all day!” stick.

Other time tested botanicals of Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Grapefruit, Coriander, and Aloe in combination with effective odor absorbing ingredients of Hops and Zinc Ricinoleate work outrageously well in this naturally scented, cooling formula in the Active Life Stick. The Liquid Rock utilizes Willow Bark and Lichen extracts for its effective and natural odor protection.

Active Life Stick 2.48 oz / $5.99 and Liquid Rock Roll Om 3 fl oz. / $5.99 at Kiss My Face and most national market retailers

3- Origins Totally Pure Deodorant

I’ve rotated this deodorant on those days after I have worked out at the gym or when I want to switch it up and smell/feel different. Origins’ deodorant kicks some serious butt with the vim of Organic Vinegar (used in countless folk recipes for its pure cleaning abilities) that purifies.

100% Organic essential oil blend including Clove Oil (long known for its purifying benefits), Organic Lemon, Organic Ylang Ylang, Organic Lavender, Organic Mandarin, Organic Patchouli, Organic Palmorosa, Organic Ginger help keep you with showery-fresh smell and feeling. Organic White Willow Bark and Lavender Alcohol blend helps protect the purity of this product and control odor.

Certified organic, and one kind is ideal for both men and women. 3.4 fl. oz./ $15 and available at Origins

4- DHC Body Cleansing Sheets

Another tried and true favorite of mine whenever I am on the go, or in the middle of the day and need to freshen up, I just reach for this and wipe away the sweat and dirt from my body, or to neutralize any smells under my arms, and to gently cleanse and cool my skin.

Made with Perilla extract, Cucumber, and Aloe to help condition, nourish, soothe and cool the skin.

Bonus features, it’s not too overly saturated and wet like other towelettes and cleansing sheets…it’s also portable, fast and easy, and a fantastic refresher that works every time!

DHC also offers Body Cleansing Sheet Powder for those wanting to swipe away sweat, grit and stickiness, leaving a silky powdery feel without any messy residues for a baby-soft finish.

Body Cleansing Sheets at DHC 20 sheets / $5

5- Carol’s Daughter Orange Ambrosia Dry Oil Mist

This body fragrance indulges your love of delightful citrus scents while pampering your skin with a veil of moisture.

You will smell great and give your skin a silky-soft glow. First, you’ll notice the Moro blood orange, like a fresh orange peel, but then you’ll detect a splash of mimosa from Mandarin, Grapefruit, and also Key Lime with a hint of woodiness.

Spray all over your body and massage into skin, even under your arms to celebrate the best of spring and summer aromas all year long.

It’s added features include Açai Berry Extract, a super antioxidant to protect your skin from environmental agers, and the ultra-hydrating Shea butter. Plus, it’s light enough to spray on whenever needed as a refresher. 4 fl. oz / $21, available at Carol’s Daughter and HSN.

6-  Dr Hauschka Deodorant Fresh

This long-lasting cream roll on with a citrus scent from pure essential oils absorbs odors without clogging pores.

Made with Zinc Ricinoleate to reduce odor without disturbing the skin’s natural functions, and Bentonite clay which has absorbent properties. Also contains Witch Hazel to balance the skin, while Sage nurtures the skin and helps to normalize perspiration.

It doesn’t overpower the senses, has a great scent for both women and men, and comes in recyclable glass, not plastic. 1.7 fl. oz / $22.95 at Dr Hauschka and Whole Foods Market

7-   Malin+Goetz Eucalyptus Deodorant

This no-nonsense clear stick is formulated with refreshing natural eucalyptus extract which is known for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and analgesic properties. Also contains odor-neutralizing citronellyl for 24 hour effectiveness.

This clean and crisp smelling unisex deodorant is suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive.

Blended to absorb without residue, staining, irritation and without clogging pores. Natural fragrance and color. 2.6 oz. / $18 at Malin+Goetz

8- Aubrey Organics Calendula Blossom Natural Deodorant Spray

This quick-drying spray features calendula oil, vitamin E, camomile and arnica. Arnica is an anti-inflammatory and when combined with antioxidant vitamin E, it is an excellent natural deodorant to fight odor.

It also contains calendula which is known for its healing and analgesic properties along with calamine to absorb moisture, and an array of natural scents, including sandalwood, patchouli and vanilla.

A great alternative to sticks and roll-on and sensitive underarm areas without having to apply pressure. 4 fl. oz. / $8.75 at Aubrey Organics

9- Terra Naturals Bamboo Deodorant

This will probably become my new favorite deodorant.  A non-sticky fromula that has a truly unique scent that is fresh and invigorating.

Carefully crafted all natural and synthetic-free fragrances, it has exotic woodsy tones with fresh Italian mandarine top notes. It contains bamboo extract which has natural deodorizing properties.

Blended with powerful antioxidants (MK Active is an FDA approved natural immune activating supplement with 930% more antioxidant power than lycoopene, and botanical extracts of aloe, calendula, honeysuckle, chamomile, goldenseal, and willow bark help to balance, eliminate odor, and protect and nourish your delicate underarm area.

It works really well and smells even better! 2 oz. / $5.99 at Terranaturals

10- Clarins Eau Dynamisante Deodorant

This deodorizing and revitalizing spray contains Clarins’ exclusive, plant-infused complex with soothing Licorice extract thathelps prevent and neutralize body odors without interfering with the natural perspiration process.

Aromatic essential oils of Lemon, Patchouli, White Thyme, Petit Grain and Rosemary that promotes a wonderful feeling of freshness, vitality and well-being. Ginseng tones and refreshes and aloe helps to soothe skin.

A well-made formula that has a proven, long-lasting action to ensure all-day freshness and comfort. 3.4 oz. / $24 at Clarins and most major department stores.

 

Mad for Missoni

Mad for Missoni

by Hadrian Miguel, Life & Style Director

You better hurry, it’s a mod, mod, mod world now with the proliferation of colorful zigzags and swirly patterns with the cheap chic collection of Missoni which launches tomorrow for a very limited run at Target.

Since 1953, Missoni has been acclaimed worldwide for its unique knitwear in eclectic mix-and-match patterns, colors and textures. Known for its fashion and luxury goods, Missoni has created many collections sold at 37 freestanding boutiques, leading department stores and retailers around the world.

Although Missoni is well known for its textiles and prints in clothing, I’m much more excited about the home furnishings collection (including bedding, dinnerware, stationery and décor) available in the same colorful patterns and at very cool, moderate prices ( $12.99 for towels, rugs and pillow $29.99, and dishes from $2.99-$19.99)!

Missoni for Target collection is at prices ranging from $2.99 to $399.99, with most items less than $40.


I’ll also probably scoop up the bedding set, the expresso/coffee mug set, and maybe a piece or two in the men’s collection (although press images from that collection were very limited at time of this publication), and the bike, which I’ll snap up and ride up in style at Burning Man next year!


Only available from Sept. 13 through Oct. 22, 2011 at all Target stores and Target.com.

 

Great Scott!

Great Scott!

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

the designer Jeremy Scott

With New York Fashion Week upon us in less than two weeks, we’re anticipating some brilliant collections especially from the likes of Jeremy Scott, the edgy American designer and rising star who is taking the world runway by storm with his fierceness. 

Jeremy Scott has a body of work that exemplifies the essence and sparkle of Keith Haring and Steven Sprouse with a smidgeon of the drama of Gaultier, McQueen, Westwood, Galliano and Thierry Mugler— and those are extremely gigantic and staggering shoes to fill.

His use of iconic Pop cultural references has radiated with his audience and has underlined his dashing and daring style. For his very own signature ready to wear line, his creations are often conceptual, well constructed, and humorously emblazoned with social commentary. He believes that you should have fun with fashion and his designs mimic that mantra with a proud, indie, emo-punk, freak flag-waving spirit. His clothing is notorious for its wit, playfulness, irony and eccentricity.

Whether you love him or hate him, one thing for certain is Jeremy is also able to inject a celebrated sportswear brand like Adidas or popular Swiss timekeeper Swatch with some freshness and whimsy.

Jeremy Scott: runway + adidas + swatch

Jeremy’s other notable designer collaborations include Christian Louboutin, Linda Farrow, Longchamp, Swarovski, and Ksubi. He has draped every major music diva from Madonna to Bjork, Lady Gaga to Kelis and most rock starlets in between.

And here’s the pièce de résistance, Karl Lagerfeld has even gone on to say that he envisions Jeremy as his successor at Chanel…wow, now that’s even more impressive!

 

For more info, visit the Jeremy Scott website


 

i am bella

i am bella

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

Just flip the pages of the mag and read about Bella, and then watch the video below to see and hear what she has to say in our exclusive interview!

 


Listen to a preview of Nobody Loves Me (The R.O.A.R. Re-Dux) 

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

 

The single is out now and available at iTunes  

 

Check out our previous Bella and The Fire & Reason interview here

Miami’s Sweet Spot

Miami’s Sweet Spot

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

Move over South Beach…SoBe is no longer the best destination in Miami (unless you have no other choice, it’s still the default place for more bars & clubs, more people watching, and the same ol’ same ol’).

Now, other must-be locales are the Upper East Side (yes, they have one too!), famous for its mid-20th century MiMo (Miami Modern) architecture, and is home to the MiMo Historic District on Biscayne Boulevard. Its up and coming diverse feel encompass the mix of old architecture from 50′s & 60′s with trendy homes and gated communities, in close proximity to traditionally Latino and Haitian communities, and surrounded by a gay bar, a gay bookstore, and a gay flag-waving diner with Filipino waitresses and staff, and other great eats on the main street thrown in for ample good measure.

BUT, the true must-see Miami hotspot is Midtown which has risen to fame for it’s shopping, living, design district (a landing place for design, the arts, and fashion), and very popular and delectable restaurant Sugarcane that makes it stand way, way out for its hip, urban, and super mad appeal.

What you see here in Midtown is also the Wynwood Art District with a transformation and renaissance into a thriving and bustling hub for rising and renowned artists, art galleries, alternative workspaces and showrooms, special installations and exhibits, and eateries that make this an amazing attraction. Wynwood holds its monthly Wynwood Art Walk on the second Saturday of every month which gives visitors and the local community the opportunity to explore and experience the creativity of artists featured at more than 70 galleries in the area.


The bright light of the neighborhood is the Wynwood Kitchen & Bar that offers a memorable dining experience and delish brasserie cuisine, which also houses the Wynwood Walls with major works from influential street artists from the US, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Their diverse talents are represented with originals by Shepard Fairey, Kenny Scharf, David Benjamin Sherry, Christian Awe, Ryan McGinness, DB Burkeman, Coco 144 & Phase 2, Stelios Faitakis, Invader, Barry McGee, and Ron English to name just a few. It’s one of the coolest and most visually striking resto and art park in the country.


You can dine in or outside. You’ll be greeted in the main dining room by a ginormous rainbow-hued man sculpture by David Sherry, and by the awesome and massive abstract paintings by Christian Awe. In the bar area and other dining room, you’re surrounded by a grand mural by one of my favorite graphic artists Shepard Fairey of the acclaimed OBEY GIANT series. Once outside on the grassy outdoor patio, you’re immersed in the impressive art of all the other artists, it’s a sure-enough visual feast for your eyes.


The drinks are fab, with gourmet handcrafted and draft beers, an international wine list with reasonably priced vintages, and tasty artist-inspired cocktails. The food is everything from flavorful small bites to satisfying classic entrees, it’s a good take on contemporary American cuisine with an innovative spin, often with savory and sweet surprises. They use farm-fresh local and organic ingredients at prices and sizes designed to encourage mix and match dining.

Wynwood Kitchen & Bar is open for lunch and dinner at 2550 NW 2nd Avenue (between NW 26th and NW 25th streets) in Miami, Florida—and Wynwood Walls is accessible right next to WK&B, and free to stroll on through.

 

the writer on a Friends With You piece at Wynwood Walls

You can reach Hadrian at hadrian@tangerineliving.com

…Introducing The New Leading Man for Summer

…Introducing The New Leading Man for Summer

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

Always searching for the perfect shirt, the new and improved chino, the light and sexy chambray, some comfy blue denim, or the season’s best swimsuit?
Why not just mix up your wardrobe with styles from different cultures and times to create a sort of modern day celebration of a guy’s style…Introducing The New Leading Man for Summer.

A graphic Southwest-inspired tank by Obey

Native prints are the new plaid. Whether you find inspiration from classic Americana of an indian or cowboy, influences from the Southwest, Aztec, Mayan or Inca, or the tropical mountain colors and culture of Machu Picchu, and the ocean blue prints of the Pacific and Polynesia, this is a welcome trend for us guys.

Focus on gathering specific native- or ethnic-inspired pieces to serve as a foundation to work off of like a vintage Batik or Aztec print shirt, a braided leather belt, a classic Apache or Navajo print blazer, and a Mayan patterned bag. A turquoise stone neckpiece or ring,  maybe even a silver bolo tie, and Mexican or Brazilian huarache sandals are all just some of the best ways to approach this trend.

Just remember not to wear everything at once to keep this look unfussy and simplistic.

Not your typical island floral fare, no one does Hawaiian better this season than Dolce & Gabbana with a modern take on a classic Hawaiian print to get you in a tropical state of mind. Just pair it with some chinos or dress it up with black.

Preppy has been back at the forefront of men’s fashion for quite some time now, but it’s different now, more a statement of comfort and style by a forward-thinking man. You don’t have to be bow-tied, argyled or striped socked, oxfords and vested, and pocket squared-up for every single look.

Keep it clean, crisp, simple and fun– a button down shirt with rolled up sleeves, a bold color tee or printed polo, shorts with a print of some kind, and sockless loafers, or maybe a scarf or sweater over your shoulder.

In fact, even if you’re not on a dock, the boat or deck shoe is still the perfect summer slip-on to complete your look, and you should consider the shirts you wear with your shorts. A pattern down below pairs better with a solid on top, while a solid bottom allows you to mix in a pattern or a bright hue (to color-block) on top. All great fun in the modern remake of an American classic look.

7 Summer Skin Saviors!

7 Summer Skin Saviors!

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

Here’s our top picks of best beauty products to save your skin and get your swimsuit body ready for the season and all of Summer’s sunny splendor.

#1 Egyptian Magic All-Purpose Skin Cream

Often described as an amazing multi-tasking non-greasy wonder hydrator, Egyptian Magic All-Purpose Skin Cream can be used for everything including dehydrated, dry, damaged skin, to soothing scars, to creating a dewy finish for your complexion, as a cheek highlighter, as an overnight eye treatment, or as an immensely hydrating lip balm.

A little goes a long way, but you can also use it on your face as a night moisturizer and eye cream, as a split end mender, hair conditioner and defrizzer, as a stretch mark prevention regimen. I can go on and on…it’s also a soothing redness reducer, helps to even heal bruises and blemishes, as a rejuvenating nail and cuticle conditioner, to smooth rough areas like elbows and knees, and helps with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.

Everyone asks me about my glowing skin…well, it’s a tiny bit of this product (and also DHC’s Olive Virgin Oil) that makes my skin smooth and radiant. Egyptian Magic’s cream is an amazing, one stop multi-functional balm. It keeps skin luminous and hydrated, and I never ever leave home without it!

Available for $36 for 4 oz. at Whole Foods, health food stores nationwide, a few online retailers, and at egyptianmagic.com

#2 Figs & Rouge 100% Organic Balm

Figs & Rouge has its own version of a multi-purpose balm, with 7 versions to choose from, but our faves are Coco Vanilla (a blend of Cocoa Seed, Sunflower oil, & Vanilla), and also Pomegranate (a mix of Pomegranate & Grapefruit oils).

 

Not only can Figs & Rouge 100% Organic balms be used on your lips and any dry skin dilemma, but it’s also great as a cleanser to remove dirt and impurities, as an intensive moisture boost for dry and flaky skin emergencies, as a fragrance just apply to pulse points on your body, as a moisturizer it keeps cuticle and nails in silky soft condition, and for hair styling needs just apply with fingers to tresses for immense texture and shine.

100% organic, vitamin-packed, skin-enriching ingredients including Organic Bees Wax, Essential Oils, Pure Shea Butter, Fatty Acids, and Vitamin E.

Figs & Rouge also make fantastic shower washes, a bath soak, and a leg lotion. Available internationally across the pond and Europe, or online at www.feelunique.com for $8.53.

#3 Bakel Oxyregen Regenerating Cream

Drench your parched, and sun-dried skin with 10 clinically-tested ingredients, and no nasty additives, Bakel Oxyregen Regenerating Cream is an innovative and wondrous moisturizer that works to stimulate cellular oxygenation with Saccharomyces Lysate, a biotechnological oxidizing yeast that stimulates cellular oxygenation and activates the natural ability of the skin to regenerate itself.

Extracts of olive, jojoba and avocado oil deliver essential nutrients to the skin and provide elasticity and luminosity, and overall anti-aging action. Designed for daily and nightly application to the face and around the eyes resulting in skin appearing firmer, smoother and brighter after just a few applications.

No preservatives, artificial colors, synthetic perfumes, petroleum derivatives, silicones, alcohol, PEG, PPG, heavy metals, or any other ineffective or harmful ingredients, all this luxury and benefit for a not-so-thrifty price of $145 for 1.7 fl. oz., and we say your face is well worth it!

Available at Space NK apothecary stores nationwide and at select Space NK shops in Bloomingdale’s.

#4 Aveda Carribean Therapy Body Scrub

Aveda’s Carribean Therapy island-inspired body scrub transforms skin and transports the senses, it smells like a tropical vacation in a jar. Loaded with lots of moisturizing oils of coconut, avocado and passionfruit, and excellent exfoliating with salt and Caribbean cane sugar.

This uplifting and astounding product is unusual for a sugar and salt scrub, it doesn’t dissolve quite so quickly when mixed with water, and it helps to banish those unsightly bumps of dry skin and ingrown hairs on the backs of arms and thighs after just one use.

It works its magic and leaves skin so super soft, smooth and radiant. Can be applied to wet or dry skin. Use before getting some sun or before sunless tanners to help build your color faster and longer, AND—(here’s the best part) when used in conjunction with a cold shower a few mornings the week before your vacation, it helps to ramp up the fat burning so that you’ll look your tip top best.

Available in 15.8 oz. jar for $39.50 at aveda.com

#5 Terracotta Mineral Flawless Bronzing Powder

The sun’s hellish rays can wreak havoc on your skin, and when you simply don’t have time to bake, just fake it with a no fuss, no muss, sunless summer glow.

My tried and true go-to for a dash of radiance has always been Bare Minerals Warmth, but now I’ve discovered another bronzing powder from Guerlain that has the same fabulousness, Terracotta Mineral Flawless Bronzing Powder

Guerlain has always been an expert and beauty industry leader in bronzers since 1984 with their legendary Terracotta Bronzing Powder, and then Terracotta Men Bronzing Powder. Now, they’ve introduced Terracotta Mineral in Light (matte light tan), Medium (matte warm golden tan), and Dark (matte bronze)– a bronzing powder made only with ingredients of mineral origin.

This ultra-fine transforming powder works immediately, melting into the skin to leave it feeling soft and smooth. It has a long-lasting formula and richly pigmented with tiny flecks of gold, peach, and a hint of rose and copper tones swirled in. Not only does it create a flawless complexion, use it anywhere on your body too. It also feels wonderfully light and soft, and gives you a healthy, radiant glow!

It’s simple, easy, and non-messy, just release the powder by lightly pressing down on the sifter with the mini kabuki brush. For a smooth, radiant complexion, apply the powder to the face using circular movements, pressing the hairs of the brush firmly against the skin and working from the center outwards.

Available at Neiman Marcus and Sephora for .1 oz. at $65.

#6 La Roche-Posay Anthelios 45 Ultra-Light Fluid for Face

Simply the best (in our opinion) in sun protection is Anthelios 45 with five sun filters and recommended for all skin types. This fast-absorbing sunscreen is ultra-light that leaves skin feeling clean with a silky texture, and a matte finish.

High UVA (PFA 26) and UVB (SPF 45) photoprotection for outdoor use with breakthrough Cell-Ox Shield™, which provides a synergistic combination of patented high efficacy sun filters and a powerful antioxidant complex called Senna Alata, a tropical leaf extract known to defend skin cells to further protect your skin.

Clinically-tested to be a highly effective sunscreen, the 5 key sun filtering ingredients include Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocryene, and Oxybenzone to protect the skin from the harmful effects of sun exposure.

Available online at La Roche-Posay and CVS/pharmacy stores nationwide at $29.50 for 1.7 fl. oz.

#7 Infrared Sauna Treatments

If you’ve already gone to the gym (or not) and need a little more assistance, the hottest thing right now in bikini ready bodies is infrared saunas. Infrared saunas treatments have been known for years to produce both immediate and long lasting health benefits.

This type of sauna helps to reduce water retention, to detoxify and release toxins from the body and simultaneously speed up metabolism, and burn calories in just 30 minutes, all without the unbearable wet-heat and steam of a traditional sauna.

Far infrared heat is a specific wave length of light from the sun. The experience of far infrared is similar to sunbathing. Infrared heat waves reach the body more directly (and not the air, walls and fixtures within the sauna), but this invisible form of radiant heat can induce 2-3 times the volume of sweat of a hot air sauna while operating at a significantly cooler range.

In L.A., the Tao Healing Arts Center in Santa Monica has an unbeatable price of $20 for 45 minutes, or a package of 5 sessions for $85! This center has two infrared saunas that can be booked, one is a single person sauna, and the other is a sauna that can fit up to three people at a time. So go check your local area, for a similar treatment or service.

Have Bike, Will Style!

Have Bike, Will Style!

by Hadrian, Life & Style Director

Republic Bike

A more serious rider will often opt for a spendier titanium or carbon fiber frame for mountain-biking or road bikes.

But, it’s their leisurely dapper and dashing cousin, the beach cruiser that is making a big splash on the streets and on bike paths in the city just in time for summer!

And, if your imagination is limitless, why not pimp your ride and create a really cool bicycle built for you to sport around town and be seen.

Here’s a look at two companies rethinking the way we get around with a fun, custom easy ride.


Photos courtesy of Republic Bike

Republic Bike leaves the designing up to you and encourages you to play. Republic is based in Dania, Florida, and their custom cruisers are affordable, practical and meant to make you smile.

You can take a spin, twirl and zoom in their 3D Bike Shop, where you’re encouraged to experiment with something simply sleek or make it downright outrageous.  Keep designing until you’re ready, and Republic will wrench your dream into a two-wheeled, rolling reality.

Whether you’re looking for a minimal, contemporary silhouette, or something a little more extravagant, your design starts with 7 bike frames to choose from in the Aristotle & Plato frame styles and an array of color choices.

Your Republic Bike will arrive approximately 90% assembled. Generally, assembly may require attaching pedals, front wheel, handlebars and adjustments.

A big hit at Google, Republic outfitted the Google Headquarters in Mountain View, California with a fleet of bikes that Googlers use to cruise from building to building at the sprawling Googleplex. The bikes are everywhere and available for everyone.

Republic bikes are available at republicbike.com

Villy Customs Bike & Deville, Villy Mascot. Photo by Villy Customs

The Dallas-based Villy Customs call their bikes rolling pieces of artwork created by your imagination (and Villy’s skilled craftsmen) to bring you the sweetest fashion accessory on two wheels for your driving pleasure. Their mantra is “Imagine if everyone rode a beach cruiser bike every day. We think the world would be a better place.”

Started by Fleetwood Hicks originally as a cruiser bike store called Fleetwood’s Kit Kat.  It eventually grew from switching things out piece by piece, swapping out fenders on one bike and putting them on another. Then, finding unique tires and a chaining company that made painted chains. The next thing he knew, he was creating his own bikes and eventually bringing in their own frames and just build custom bikes from scratch. When the custom cruisers really started selling in the store, the Villy Customs website was built.

Villy's Bella in Orange. Photo by Villy Customs

Villy Customs also has a 3D interactive bike builder where you can create an original, or if your creative juices aren’t flowing, you may select a limited edition pre-built cruiser from their already designed showroom. Villy has four frames — two girls, two guys. Then there are 29 frame colors, 14 fender colors, 8 chain colors, 45 pinstripe colors and 11 styles of tires. They also offer a ton of fun accessories that is sure to make you standout even more from bells, baskets, chains & handlebars to racks and rims. There are an endless amount of color choices and combinations for bikes, bike parts, and accessories.

Simple instructions allow you to put to assemble your custom bike in about 15-20 minutes. Villy offers standard Ground shipping to the 48 states for a set price of $24 per custom bike (with additional shipping costs for accessories or items purchased separate from the bike which are shipped separately).

And, if you’re ever visiting Dallas, and want to explore the big city or pedal around Downtown in a super cool way, Villy Customs has bike rentals too!

Visit the Villy Customs wesbsite for more info.

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