Posts for September 27th 2006
Fab Read: Beauty Junkies
If you believe Alex Kuczynski, cosmetic-surgery junkies are just as desperate as substance abusers when it comes to getting their fix. In her upcoming book Beauty Junkies, the New York Times writer examines a world of cutting-edge cosmetic treatments where upstanding citizens beg doctors for medical injections not yet approved by the FDA. Or, if you prefer a fashion analogy, Kuczynski compares a patient's acquisition of youth-preserving procedures to a woman's lust for the latest "it" handbag.
Using her own cosmetic-surgery addiction as a hook, the author explores the worldwide business of plastic surgery and the creepy extremes people go to in order to stay looking young. I was first intrigued by this book after reading an excerpt in the September issue of Vanity Fair, which focuses mostly on Kuczinki's own tale of redemption after a botched Restalyn injection. Although her writing gets under my skin somewhat (pardon the pun), I can't deny that the material is fascinating, from the astounding facts right down to the writer's still-lingering self doubt. The book hits store shelves on Oct. 17, but you can pre-order it for $16.47 here.
The Perfect Pair of Jeans, Part II

A month ago, I told you about Zafu.com a retail site that helps you find the perfect jeans for your figure based on your measurements and denim preferences. I was initially drawn to Zafu because the site promises to solve one of the biggest dilemmas of jean shopping—that is, knowing where to start. After all, with hundreds of brands and styles to choose from, how do you know which ones are likely to look best on you?
Last weekend, I put Zafu to the ultimate test: I took the site's recommendations with me when I went jean shopping. The verdict: Zafu was completely spot-on. I tried on dozens of pairs—including Zafu recommendations and my own picks—and not only did Zafu's choices jive with the sales clerk's, but they were far more flattering than the jeans I chose myself. In fact, one of the pairs I bought was straight off of Zafu's list. I highly recommend it. The site also stores your denim preferences and results for future reference, so when you return, it can tell you what new styles might also fit your figure.
method: Clean Your House in Style
Cleaning-products company method home burst onto the scene a few years ago with a beautiful bottle of dish soap designed by Karim Rashid. But lest you think Method is all about aesthetics, think again—the brand's environmentally friendly, non-toxic cleaning products actually work. The cleaning sprays, for instance, can remove soap scum with the best of them, but they'll leave your bathroom smelling like Bath & Body Works instead of bleach. Plus, Drugstore.com has a lot of their super-stylish stuff on sale right now; here's a look at some of my favorite Method products.
Dish Cubes Dishwasher Detergent, Pink Grapefruit, $5.19, available here.

Bathroom All Surface Cleaner, Cucumber Scent, $5.49, available here.

To see the rest, read more
Online Sale Alert: Big Discounts and Free Shipping at Neiman Marcus
If you're looking to stock up on fine designer fashions, head over to Neiman Marcus, which is having a huge sale on hundreds of items. The "last call" clearance stuff is reduced by as much as 70 percent. Plus, if you make your purchase today, you get free shipping, too! Here are some of my picks.
See by Chloe Belted Dress, $265 reduced from $530, available here.

Tory Burch Leather Messenger, $371 reduced from $495, available here.

To see the rest, read more
Come Fab Finding With Me: Entertaining at Home
The most stressful thing about hosting a cocktail party? For me, it's probably picking out my clothes. Even if I master the drink-mixing and appetizer placement, I think looking fabulous is a crucial hostessing skill.
However, don't think you can throw on your typical glitzy cocktail-party ensemble to entertain at home. Rather, a hostess should wear something that strikes a balance between sparkly and stay-at-home, like this Ya-Ya Black Cashmere Rectangle Sweater Wrap, available for $222 here. So let's all go Fab Finding to complete the outfit. In this case, comfort is key! Be sure to come back and tell us what you found. To learn what a Fab Find is and how to make one, click here. To see some of my favorite online stores, read more
Trend Alert: Chain Belts
As we all know, fashion is cyclical, and this Fall, the chain belt is back! But this time around, it's a little bit more refined and a little bit less S&M than the old-style 1980s version. The new chain styles are integrated with rich leathers and intricate buckles and intended to be worn around dresses and long tunics. Here's a peek at a few of my favorites.
Juicy Couture Status Chain Belt, $175, available here in black, white, or bronze leather with silver or bronze hardware.

Michael Kors Chain Trouser Belt, $195, available here in brown or black.

One more, so read more
Prada at London Fashion Week
Though I haven't been following London Fashion Week very closely, I couldn't help but pay attention to the Prada Spring 2007 collection, which was unveiled yesterday. The line was a blend of perfect execution and very puzzling choices, spanning everything from deep jewel tones to Egyptian-esque graphics in earthy hues.
I loved the satiny geometric tunics (or ultra-short minis, depending on how you look at them), paired with 1970s-inspired strappy platforms and seductively stylish leather belts. The turbans and nylon backpacks, on the other hand, tended toward the painfully hip. All in all, though, it looks like Prada has once again pulled out a collection that's both very now and completely groundbreaking. To judge the collection for yourself, read more
Primp For Breast Cancer Awareness
I already told you about the stunning Robyn Rhodes jewelry being sold to benefit breast cancer awareness. Now, the designer t-shirt label Primp (beloved by Paris Hilton and Jessica Simpson) has created a line of comfy tops for the cause, complete with a pink-ribbon print and rhinestone detailing. Better yet, Primp and Shopbop (the tees' exclusive retailer) are donating a whopping 50 percent of the proceeds to the Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization.
The shirts went on sale today and are available throughout October, which is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You can buy them here; the short-sleeved tshirt sells for $68 and the long-sleeved thermal costs $75.
Liquid Eye Liner Pens
Liquid eye liners are a quick way to create an instantly dramatic effect. You can combine them with pale shadows for a 50s inspired look, add as a finishing touch for smokey eyes, or draw on bat wings for a seductive looking cat-eye. You can't really go wrong with the look of liquid liner, and these new "pens" make using them seem effortless.
Shu Uemura Liquid Eye Liner is a favorite among industry experts. It's an eye-liner pen with a refillable cartridge and a finely pointed felt tip. The black version is exceptionally rich. Buy it here for $32.

This Lancome Artliner is a precision-point liner in an easy-to-handle, liquid pen form. It's got a uniquely shaped foam tip that is super soft yet firm enough to ensure a definitive line that won't skip. (Don't you hate it when that happens?) These liners also have very deep and long lasting color. Buy it here for $27.

To see a budget alternative, read more