Author: barbara-cannon
Interview: Melanie Brandon
October 6, 2008Recently, I had a chance to chat online with an amazing designer who is doing more than just creating fashion- she’s making a change. Melanie Brandon, designer of the Melanie Von Alexandria collection is making great strides in her hometown of Philadelphia with her innovative ideas and is sure to make her mark in fashion. Her latest collection “Superwoman” is influenced by today’s woman who can balance life, love, family and in 2008 – politics. Brandon for the past year has partnered with the Philadelphia Police Department to create jewelry out of melted down guns and still has the time to create a fashion collection, put on shows, and meet with buyers.
Who says a woman can’t do it all?
Rachel Guerrier (RG): How long have you been in the business and when did you realize that fashion was your calling?
Melanie Brandon (MB): I’ve been in the biz since about 1997??? It’s been so long, can’t remember…lol!
RG: Ok, well how did you start your own collection? Were you working with any designers before you decided to branch out on your own or was it always a solo mission?
MB: When did I realize it was my calling? My first visit to New York, I visited the Met on a class trip and saw an exhibit on Christian Dior. Then years later by coincidence I got a job working as assistant designer at Alfred Angelo Bridals where I worked on the Christian Dior wedding gowns under head designer Judy Butterfly!
RG: Wow…how was that?
MB: Rachel, I remember it like it was yesterday, because you asked me when did I realize this was my calling!!!! Yes, this was it! No, I may not have been working under the legend himself or with Vera Wang, my favorite designer, but I knew then- it was my dream. An every day dream- learning the construction of not putting together a pair of jeans but the construction of what’s real fashion. A Christian Dior wedding gown set the standard for me immediately and I knew then that what I’d design someday would not be just tee shirts and jeans but I’d try my best to make art and to follow after some of these geniuses.
RG: Was your trip with a fashion school, and if so what school did you attend?
MB: The trip was with a fashion school that’s no longer on the radar; very small and no longer around. Craft Fashion Institute, but even as small as the school was, I knew this was going to be my life. I also knew no one would ever be able to tell me I couldn’t do it or stop me!
RG: So your latest collection is called “Superwomen”…what was your inspiration behind this and how was it working on this latest collection?
MB: Superwoman collection- I have to admit is my favorite collection. My inspiration was the all the amazing women out there from my mother, to my first boss Judy Butterfly, Vera Wang, Michelle Obama to the powerhouse founder of fashion week herself! It has been crazy exciting! From selecting the colors, working on steel, coming up with these ideas in my head that just keep pouring out- like cotton candy and steel, because women are both soft and strong, focused and they get it done.
RG: This election year has shown us that women can strive to be anything- maybe even President of the United States! What looks can we expect to see in your collection that reflects a strong woman, how far our place has come in society and the fact that we can actually achieve anything we put our mind to? MB: What you can expect to see in the clothing collection are colors that woman of any age or size would be comfortable wearing. From a black-tie event to a red carpet event, White House Meeting, the office and a party. Taupe, grey, black, steel blues to cotton candy pinks and oranges. Because, there’s always a little bit of a girl in all of us. That why I named it Superwomen, because we have accomplished so much and can do whatever we want.
RG: Being from Philly where the murder rate has been alarmingly high. Your last collection Gun Metal Beauty incorporated accessories made from confiscated murder weapons and with the help of the Philadelphia Police Department you’ve worked together to create something positive. Can you tell me more about this and will you continue to use gun metal in your future jewelry collections?
MB: Yes, I will always use the gunmetal in my collection of jewelry. Philly has had an alarming rate of violence and because of this, with that motherly thing in me I want to “protect” the community, the children. When I see those who have no regard for life it angers me and naturally I want to do something to help. The City of Philadelphia is now the official supplier of the gunmetal jewelry collection. They were the first to answer my proposal and in the first meeting immediately said yes. Deputy Paris Washington named the collection “Operation MWVA: Melting Weapons of Violence into Accessories, taken from the initials of Melani Von Alexandria. We have been in talks with Macy’s for a year now and will be presenting the full collection in October!!
RG: Wow, that’s wonderful news and much to be excited about! You’re working on the Macy’s collection with the Philadelphia Diamond Company… how did that collaboration begin and what can we expect to see in the line?
MB: Yes, the jewelry collection is from my partnership with the Philadelphia Diamond Company. I met them through a mutual friend from our church where they and myself are members. There are over 10,000 members, so I wouldn’t have met them without our friend. What can you expect?? Eclectic energy, organic/green-friendly elegance; a mixture of gunmetal, clear quartz and other precious gems.
RG: Seems that you’ve had a busy year then, September especially! You’ve been showing every weekend this month, so instead of having a fashion week, seems like you’re having a fashion month. You’ll be showing in Philly soon….how important is it that you show not only in NY but in your hometown of Philly as well?
MB: It is important for me to show in Philly because many women here will never get the opportunity to go to Mercedes Benz Fashion Week or know nothing of it. This allows the City of Philadelphia to maybe have our own fashion week. Not only that, some women here want to see more than just what’s on the racks in Philly. Also, the gun metal has touched the hearts of so many Philadelphians now!!! Although our Mayor {Michael Nutter} still hasn’t seen the collection, many politicians are loving it and his wife, First Lady of Philadelphia, Lisa Nutter loves the project!!!
For more on Melanie Brandon and her collection visit: www.melanivonalexandria.com
barbara-cannon
Style Blogging: A New Editorial Era
August 2, 2008Blogging has become a product of modern technology. Around the world, many people express themselves—interests, hobbies, art, music, style—through blogs. Blogging has evolved from private, handwritten diaries to public websites with a live audience. Blogs are a way for people to connect, feel inspired, learn or vent. You can do just about anything with a blog. Many people are choosing to start style blogs—a place to showcase one’s personal style, inspirations, secrets and lifestyle. And, they are becoming increasingly successful.
I first stumbled upon style blogs with the remarkable success of The Sartorialist. The blog started as a hobby; one man capturing street style in New York City and various other locations all over the world. It now has over a million views per month. Raw blogs, like The Sartorialist, have inspired a new, different kind of blog: individual bloggers documenting their everyday style. The secret behind these blogs is real people, amateur photography, and of course, great style. Besides inspirational posts, such as photos of models and celebrities, beauty secrets, and wish lists, readers are able to see what a blogger is wearing on any given day. Not only do readers get a taste of individual style at its best, but they also get a list of items worn by the author at the end of each post. The best part about these style blogs is the wallet-friendly clothing, shoes, and accessories. Readers soon realize that they can afford to look extraordinary on a daily basis.
What’s different about these style blogs in comparison to traditional print editorials? Besides spontaneous style and pure inspiration, a reader gets to know the person in the picture. In comparison, editorials usually depict nameless models who have been styled, wearing high-end pieces such as Yves Saint Laurent and Chanel. In the blog world, style bloggers are mixing and matching, opting for American Apparel and Forever 21 for basics and Alexander Wang, Chloe and vintage for indulgences. What’s more is the idea that most young people have to save their money to obtain designer handbags and shoes. It is all very relatable—different from a anonymous model on a page.
With many of the top style bloggers averaging 75 or more comments per post, success is certainly attainable. Some have been recognized by big publications such as Teen Vogue and interviewed by fellow bloggers and successful fashion websites. Some have capitalized on their own success by creating community style websites and online vintage clothing stores. As walking advertisements for young people, these bloggers are frequently sent clothing, shoes, and accessories by designers hoping their clothing will be featured in a post. One thing’s for sure—as mini celebrities, a style blog has given them many opportunities.
online: The Sartorialist
barbara-cannon
Chasing The Row
June 2, 2008Most people know Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s story. Famous for their entire lives, they started acting as infants on Full House and continued with straight-to-video movies, TV shows, cosmetics and a clothing line. At eighteen, the two took complete control of their company Dualstar, and the rest is history.
I first became intrigued by Mary-Kate and Ashley in 2004 when each of them began creeping out of their somewhat private lives, showcasing an effortless, individual style that carried their status from young fashionistas to fashion icons. Everyone, including me, wondered where they were shopping, what they were wearing and what they got at Starbucks. Yet, nobody could figure it out. At 21, Mary-Kate and Ashley are grounded; they’ve actually earned their own money, established themselves as businesswomen and resisted overexposure, opting for normal lives (if the world will let them).
After a few years at NYU, the two are doing their own thing. Ashley is currently focusing on fashion while Mary-Kate is balancing both fashion and acting. They’ve introduced two clothing lines; a high-end line called The Row and a more contemporary collection called Elizabeth and James. Though the latter features more wallet-friendly pieces sold at Neiman Marcus, The Row is a muted, more sophisticated collection that boasts simple and expensive basics. The super-soft fabrics and French seams make the collection even more desirable.
When comparing Elizabeth and James to their upscale brand, the Olsens are much more involved in The Row, running and funding it themselves in order to have complete control. In a recent issue of Nylon magazine, Mary-Kate called Elizabeth and James a “licensing deal” and although involved, she emphasized how important The Row is to she and her sister.
The line is what many people would call too simple. Most wouldn’t pay the $200+ for their signature t-shirts. When I visited a fashion website, a reader commented on The Row, saying, “Too plain and too expensive! $600 for a cardigan?! I’d rather spend my money on something else than spend it on something designed by MK&A!” People either love or hate it.
Aside from the t-shirts, the collection is comprised of oversized lamb-fur coats, a banded skirt, a modal tank top, pant-like leggings, a tuxedo jacket and more – available at 29 exclusive locations, yet impossible to find online or anywhere else. I managed to score a t-shirt after days of googling, phone calls and patience. Jeffrey, an Atlanta boutique, was the only store in my area that carried The Row. Even so, it took days of research. So why is it impossible to find?
Mary-Kate told Women’s Wear Daily why. “We want to control its image and each piece and each collection.” She continued, “The Row is very separate from everything we’ve done so far.” It has been said that Mary-Kate and Ashley are careful not to associate themselves with the line and do not want The Row to be just another celebrity line. So far, it isn’t.
Ally Hilfiger was featured on the website Who What Wear Daily in a beautiful green pencil skirt. It was identified by a reader as The Row, though nobody was sure. Despite the mere speculation, the Olsens have a way of being both hidden and noticed, which has brought them true success.
barbara-cannon
Moscow Fashion Renaissance
April 2, 2008When pairing fashion with Russia, you may think of model Natalia Vodianova who exudes effortless beauty and a unique fashion sense. Although she isn’t from Moscow, she is a perfect example of Russia’s progress as one of the world’s most stylish countries. Its capital, Moscow, is particularly shining. It’s shedding its intense history and emerging vibrantly into the world of luxury and fashion. Moscow’s sophisticated success has caught the eye of Stella McCartney who has opened a store there. Named for the second time as the world’s most expensive city, could Moscow be the world’s next fashion capital?
Despite Moscow’s present triumph, the city hasn’t always been so bright. With a history of war, plague and conflicting politics, Moscow became the capital of the Soviet Union following the Russian Revolution in 1917. Between then and the end of the USSR in 1991, Moscow experienced consistent war, gained a new metro system and hosted the Summer Olympic Games. Coming far since then, Moscow is recognized for its global influences in education, politics, media, and fashion.
Today, fashion is a big deal in the lives of Russian men and women alike. Along with New York City, Paris, Milan and others, Moscow has experienced the excitement of a steady, twice a year Fashion Week since 2003. It showcases both up-and-coming and established designers and invites big time media from magazines around the world. Compared to today’s Fashion Week starting early this century, the Fashion Week that was known before began in 1994 and showcased haute couture. Presently, Fashion Week attracts close to a hundred thousand people including media, designers and spectators, all interested in one thing: fashion. Many boast that Fashion Week in Moscow is an opportunity to build on the city’s fashion industry. Unfortunately, fashion has already made a huge impression there with big time designers showcasing their collections at Fashion Week including Daria Razumihina, Andrew Sharov and Natasha Drigant. Now with Stella McCartney’s new store, the booming industry seems that much more successful.
Many attribute the success to the elegant Russian consumers who flock the streets in stylish ensembles, impressing many who remember the times of grim poverty and gray streets filled with Communist banners. Though nobody will forget the past, Russia, especially Moscow, has become a sophisticated and chic city. With a growing middle and upper class, Moscow is booming with social activity. Museums, theatres and parks fill the city, and most are well educated because of the advanced educational system.
Fashion is certainly making its way full-time into the minds of Russian society. Alongside the Alexander McQueen boutique sits Stella McCartney’s new store. Carrying the designer’s full collection, most think her unique approach will fit perfectly into the lives of Moscow’s elite. Others have noticed Moscow. Coach plans to open fifteen stores in Russia within the next five years. Many will be in Moscow. Many others will probably follow pushing Moscow up on the list of the world’s fashion capitals. It will probably see number one.
barbara-cannon
Personal Essay: Changing Hairstyles
February 1, 2008
I am a self-proclaimed hair addict. I change my hair as often as I change my underwear. My mom thinks I’m obsessed, though compared to my boyfriend, at least she still listens. My boyfriend refuses to look at my latest pictures paired with the question, “Should I cut my hair like this?” He thinks I’m crazy, but my excuse is that my hair grows too fast. Realistically, it does. But that doesn’t mean I have to change the style every time I see my stylist. Still, I keep telling myself that changing my hair is my form of expression. Regardless, I enjoy experimenting.
This so-called obsession began when I chopped my very long hair into a mid-length bob following a painful breakup. I didn’t realize I was creating a monster, but since then, my hair has remained short despite numerous attempts to return to a longer length. With that said, I’ve tried every short style imaginable—all but one: the pixie.
Since I was young, I appreciated a great short hairstyle. From Gwen Stefani’s early No Doubt days to Kate Moss’ 2001 pixie, I dreamed of chopping my hair short. Always acknowledging the pixie, I never attempted it due to the ridiculous youth insecurities like the pressure to fit in and my small town’s lack of appreciation for something different. I always knew I would eventually take the plunge. It was only a matter of time.
The right time came last year. I’d just gotten my first real job as a copywriter at an advertising firm, and I had a little less than a year left of college. Most importantly, I finally felt comfortable with my life after years of being unbalanced. Everything was finally coming together. I carefully planned the big day with my hairdresser of three years who wouldn’t let me back down.
Until then, I prepared. Almost to my shoulders, my hair was the longest it had been in a while. I needed to get used to short hair again so I got a pre-pixie haircut in preparation for the big day. I also started collecting photos not only to get an idea of what I wanted, but also for inspiration. My favorite celebrity pixies included Keira Knightley, Selma Blair, Natalie Portman and Agyness Deyn. Enough said, I was inspired.
On the big day I carried my folder full of photos into the salon in my silk Anthropologie dress. My source of support, my best friend, greeted me at the door. In the salon chair, I carefully pulled each picture from the folder and explained to my hairdresser my expectations. She thought I was crazy, but I had to get it right.
It was wrong—a complete disaster. I hadn’t cried after a haircut since seventh grade, but the tears rolled down my face as my best friend hugged me in the parking lot of the salon. I felt naked. I was exposed. I was a boy. I called myself many names that night that should not be repeated.
The pixie brought on a strange feeling I couldn’t explain. It affected me in ways I never expected. Having gotten used to jeans and a t-shirt, I dug through my closet for skirts, dresses and heels. I wanted to wear earrings. I bought loads of headbands and barrettes. I could no longer hide behind my hair, which was exuberating and scary all at the same time.
Though I tried (hard), I never got used to the pixie. After a few trims, I started the process of growing my hair back into my chin-length cut. I can’t decide if it was my lack of confidence or my continuous desire for change. I can certainly say I tried the style. Currently, I wear a shorter than usual, asymmetrical bob, though its time for a new style. I’m thinking about giving the pixie another shot. Who knows, the second time might be the charm.
barbara-cannon
Obsessed with Love: Codependency
March 3, 2007Love is a beautiful thing. It is universally celebrated and widely acknowledged as one of the most important feelings experienced during life. The Oxford Dictionary defines love as “an intense feeling of deep affection” or “a deep romantic attachment to someone;” however, love can be defined in many ways through romantic companionships, in families, and between friends. However celebrated or explained, love can also have its downfalls. Love can cause a person to become jealous, angry and ultimately obsessed. When somebody cares too much and gives up their own lives to become caretakers, they become codependent.
Codependency appeared in the treatment scene in the late seventies, though it has not been characterized as a disease or an illness. It was mostly associated
with people who became closely involved with chemically dependent individuals, specifically alcoholics. The definition has grown since then as the discovery
of people experiencing codependency expanded, affecting a wide range of different people. In the broadest sense, codependency is defined as a person “who has let another person’s behavior affect him or her, and who is obsessed with controlling that person’s behavior.” The “other” person could be anybody, though the problem lies in the codependent person’s feelings and the way they react to the other person’s behavior and problems. This behavior leads to a dangerous obsession that prevents the codependent person from finding balance in everyday life.
As codependency became more common, it was apparent that it affected individuals in many different situations who were dealing with people who were troubled or needy. The most common patterns surrounding codependency are based around a silent system of rules usually established within the immediate family that prohibit the codependent person from discussing feelings or emotions, thus setting the pace for relationships. This repression produces all kinds of problems causing anger, depression, anxiety, and control. The codependent person allows the other person’s problems to become their own. As a result, the codependent
person feels a need to control the troubled person; they need to be a caretaker.
Other than being a caretaker, there are many characteristics that define codependency.
Many codependents:
- come from dysfunctional families
- are perfectionists
- have low self-worth
- take things personally
- are afraid to be themselves
- repress their feelings
- worry about minute problems
- focus all of their energy on the problems of other people
- feel controlled by events and people
- ignore problems
- don’t feel happy with themselves
- center their lives around other people
- look for happiness outside of themselves
- have poor communication
- lack trust
- feel very angry
- have problems in sexual situations
As codependency becomes worse, frustration and anger begin to surface. The codependent lacks control and feels helpless. They begin to feel depressed and hopeless because their way of thinking, feeling, reacting, and behaving has become self-destructive. Detachment is the first step in seeking recovery.
Detachment is when the codependent learns to separate their life from the life of the other person. They realize that their problems and emotions are their own. The codependent learns to care about other people in a healthy way rather than being obsessed and overly-involved. Detachment takes a lot of work, learning to be in touch with feelings, and eventually becomes a way of life. Detachment involves finding a sense of freedom and allowing the codependent to release the burden of worrying excessively about other people. The codependent is finally allowed to live.
The most important part of beating codependency is learning to let go. Melody Beattie, author of Codependent No More, sends a message to her readers:
For each of us, there comes a time to let go. You will know when that time has come. When you have done all that you can do, it is time to detach. Deal with your feelings. Face your fears about losing control. Gain control of yourself and your responsibilities. Free others to be who they are. In so doing, you will set yourself free.
After recovery, the codependent is able to live life to the fullest through a balance that allows them to finally take care and love themselves. Their obsession lies only in their life.
Great books on codependency:
Codependent No More by Melody Beattie
Breaking Free of the Codependency Trap by Barry K. Weinhold and Janae B. Weinhold
barbara-cannon
For the Holiday Food Lover and Lush in You
December 24, 2006December is the time for giving as the holidays are quickly approaching. Women are rushing to get their shopping done and prepare for the second most important aspect of the holidays, entertaining. Having guests over is hardly easy for the thousands of women who are expecting guests during the holidays. Running out of ideas? Here are a few ideas for snacking and of course drinking.
Drinks
1 shot citrus vodka
1 shot white cranberry juice
1 shot passion fruit juice
1/2 shot orange liqueur
1 tablespoon cherry juice
Orange peel twist, for garnish
Combine all ingredients except orange peel twist in a shaker filled with ice. Shake and strain into martini glass. Garnish with orange peel twist.
Rose Sangria
1 bottle rose wine
1/4 cup brandy
1/4 cup triple sec
1 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup simple syrup, or more to taste
Orange slices, lemon slices, lime slices, apple slices and blackberries
Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher, cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours. If you do not serve immediately, strain the fruit and add fresh when serving.
3 cups mango juice
3 cups passion fruit juice
2 cups apricot juice
1 cup cranberry juice
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup lime juice
1 bottle Champagne or sparkling white wine
2 ounces melon liqueur
2 ounces creme de banane
2 ounces apricot brandy
Fresh fruit, for garnish
Special equipment: large punch bowl, ladle
Combine all the liquid ingredients in a large punch bowl, add ice and garnish with fresh
fruit.
Smoothies
1 large ripe banana, peeled and sliced
1 cup washed strawberries, stems, and hulls removed
½ cup raspberries or peeled and sliced kiwis (about 2 kiwis)
1 cup plain yogurt
¼ cup orange juice
2 tablespoons honey
Instructions- Place all of the ingredients in the blender and process on high speed until smooth about 30-45 seconds.
Pour into glasses and serve
Key Lime Martini
3 tablespoons Liquor 43
1 tablespoon lemon-flavored vodka
2 tablespoons Key lime juice
2 tablespoons heavy cream
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine Liquor 43, vodka, Key lime juice and cream. Cover, shake vigorously and strain into a chilled martini glass.
Finger Foods
1 package store bought sugar cookie dough
1 cup orange marmalade
1 1/2 cups assorted nuts, toasted and chopped (try hazelnuts, almonds, and walnuts)
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Spread the cookie dough out on a cookie sheet to 1/4-inch thickness (about 9 inches by 12 inches) using your fingertips. Bake for 25 minutes. Let cool.
Spread the marmalade over the cookie. Sprinkle with nuts.
In a double boiler over very lightly simmering water, melt the chocolate. Dip a spoon in the melted chocolate and drizzle on top of the cookie. Let cool. Cut the cookie into 12 bars or squares. Serve or store in an airtight container.
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 cups unsalted mixed nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, and almonds
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
Mix spices and reserve.
Heat the nuts in a dry skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until they begin to toast, about 4 minutes. Add the butter and cook, stirring, until the nuts begin to darken, about 1 minute. Add the spices, the sugar, 1 tablespoon water, and the salt and cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens and the nuts are glazed, about 5 minutes.
Remove the nuts from the heat and transfer to a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, separating them with a fork. Let the nuts stand until cooled and the sugar has hardened, about 10 minutes. Store in an airtight container.
Pigs in a Blanket
1 1/2 pounds chorizo, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 pound puff pastry, thawed and cut into 2 by 4-inch rectangles
Cornichons
Creole mustard
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Wrap each piece of chorizo in a piece of the puff pastry, and press the seam to seal. Place, seam-side down, on a baking sheet. Place in the oven and cook until the puff pastry is golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes. Serve with cornichons and Creole mustard.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
2 pounds Brussels sprouts
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano leaves or 1 teaspoon dried
1/4 cup pine nuts
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
Heat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Cut the bottoms off the Brussels sprouts and trim off any damaged outer leaves. Soak them in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes and drain them well. Cut them in half and put them into a roasting pan. Add the thyme, oregano, pine nuts, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the olive oil and vinegar and toss everything well to coat. Put the roasting pan into the oven and cook for 20 minutes. Give everything a good stir and cook for 25 minutes more, or until the Brussels sprouts are nicely browned and caramelized. Serve immediately.
Frozen Yogurt:
2 cups plain yogurt
1 1/4 cups simple syrup (see Cook’s Note)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1/2 vanilla bean, split
Strawberry salad:
1 cup raspberries
1 tablespoon sugar
16 large strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced
1 (2-inch) piece honeycomb, optional
Equipment: 1-quart paper milk container, thoroughly cleaned with the top cut off; 4 (6-inch) ovenproof, shallow appetizer plates
Make the Frozen Yogurt: In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, simple syrup, and vanilla. Chill 30 minutes; then freeze in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Cram the frozen yogurt into the milk container, packing it well to get rid of all the air pockets. Freeze for at least 6 hours.
Make the Strawberry Salad: puree the raspberries and sugar in a blender. Strain out the seeds and taste the puree for sweetness, adding more sugar if necessary. Divide the puree on among the plates, spreading evenly to coat the bottom of each plate. Using 4 berries per plate, carefully fan them on top of each plate, starting at the edge and spiraling in to the center. (It can be made up to this point up to 8 hours in advance. Just tightly cover each plate with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.)
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Bake the strawberries until just warm, about 2 minutes. Alternatively, microwave them for 1 minute.
Take the frozen yogurt out of the freezer and lay it on its side. With a serrated knife, leaving the frozen yogurt in its container, cut a 1 1/2-inch think slice off the end. Remove the container band around the slice. Cut the slice on the diagonal into 4 triangles. Place a triangle of frozen yogurt in the center of each plate (it will start to melt immediately). Cut the honeycomb, if using, into 4 pieces and place on top of the frozen yogurt. Serve immediately.
Cook’s Note: If you have simple syrup on hand, this is such a fast dessert. To make the simple syrup, bring 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar to a boil; then let it cool before using.
**Most recipes courtesy of Food Network website. They have a great search engine and awesome ideas for any kind of recipe you are looking for.
barbara-cannon
Be Bikini Ready
May 1, 2006Summer is right around the corner and so is the dreaded bikini. You may be getting into shape or just deciding what you are going to do to rid yourself of unwanted hair. Whatever the case, there are various methods and products available on the market to help with your bikini line, underarms, legs, and anywhere else where hair might be inhibiting your summer fun.
Razors have been my only means for shaving my legs, but years ago, I was getting cuts frequently with my cheap, disposable razors. One day, I decided to use my boyfriends Gillette Mach3 Turbo and I haven’t been back since. With a lubricating strip and enhanced micro fins, this three-blade razor promises a close, comfortable shave without nicks and is safe to use anywhere.
For smoother results, I recommend products by Nair. Nair promises better results that last days longer than shaving and instead of cutting the hair like razors, Nair removes hair from below the surface for a softer touch. I only usually use Nair for my bikini line so “bikini cream” is just right producing a stubble-free area that doesn’t grow back for about three days. Nair’s bikini cream is available at Wal-mart for about $4 and also comes in an easier glide-on version. If you can’t stand the smell of original Nair products, look for the new lotions that come in fresh scents like cucumber melon and cocoa butter.
What about wax? If you’re brave enough to try at-home wax, try Bliss’s Poetic Cosmetic Waxing Kit. I found that this kit is actually organic, containing oils and infused with aromatherapy. Bliss’s kit includes the wax, large and small spatulas, cleanser, lotion, and a cute little mug. Available at Sephora for $40.
When I get sick of maintaining my bikini line, I go for the Brazilian bikini wax. What it is: very thorough waxing that removes every last bit of hair except a thin landing strip. Yes, it is painful, but the results are amazing and can last up to 4 weeks. Available at Spa Sydell for $65 plus tip. If the Brazilian wax isn’t your cup of tea, try a regular bikini wax, which can be just as painful, but produces the same results, for about $35 at any spa.
If you’re looking for a more extreme result for hair removal that actually lasts, look into laser hair removal. Laser hair removal uses a pulsating laser light to remove unwanted hair pretty much anywhere including the upper lip, bikini line, back, legs, and underarms. Although laser hair removal may require more than one treatment to get rid of all of the hair, the procedure produces long-term and even permanent results. Averaging about $388 per treatment, laser hair removal can be performed by a certified dermatologists or dermatologic surgeon.
Any way you chose to remove your unwanted hair, make sure you use the right products to soothe your skin and prevent bumps, burn, and especially ingrown hairs. Try Tend Skin, a product available from Sephora for about $25. Useful for both men and women, Tend Skin is useful for any cosmetic problem related to hair removal.
C.O. Bigelow also offers a light after-shave lotion infused with eucalyptus oil and antioxidant grape seed oil that soothes skin from irritation. This product is fragrance-free and dermatologist tested for people with sensitive skin and can be found for $24 at Bath and Body Works.
Whichever way you chose to remove unwanted hair, make sure it is the right technique for you, especially if you chose laser hair removal. If anything, make sure to stay attentive to your skin to prevent serious razor burn, bumps, nicks, or ingrown hairs. Doing this will keep your newly smooth skin healthy.
barbara-cannon
Your Best Winter Skin
January 2, 2006Dry, chapped, cracked, flaky, irritated … skin can turn ugly in winter. During these fierce months of ice and cold, your skin craves extra attention. But with the right lotions, exfoliates and creams, you can restore your skin’s healthy beauty.
If you’re like me, hot showers are a part of your morning routine. After creeping out of bed into the freezing air, that hot water feels more than great. But hot water actually strips the natural oil from skin, leaving it dry and flaky. Experts suggest using lukewarm water instead.
After showering, apply an oil-based lotion while your skin is still damp, to lock in the moisture. If your skin tends to become extremely dry during the winter months, try a heavier lotion like Lancôme’s Absolute Body ($98), an intense moisturizing cream that promises to give skin a youthful glow. After trying some at a local department store counter, my skin felt extremely soft and rejuvenated. Even after leaving the store, I continued to feel the effects all day.
For a more economical option, I love Oil of Olay’s Quench Radiance Reviver Extra Dry Skin Formula ($6.99.) I use it on a daily basis after my morning shower. I was drawn to it because it advertised an improved skin tone with the use of self-tanner, yet it promised not to turn my skin a streaky orange color. I have been hooked ever since.
If your skin is dying for help, try body oil. Clarins makes a body treatment oil called Relax ($45) that can be used all over the body or just in dry areas.
However, lotions and creams can’t completely correct dry skin unless you exfoliate regularly, because they cannot penetrate the layers of dead skin. Bath and Body Works Purely Silk Salt Scrub ($18.50) is a gentle scrub that leaves skin feeling unbelievably soft and moisturized. A friend gave me a jar last year. I used it about once a week and loved it. It’s soaked in oil, so you won’t need to apply a moisturizer afterwards, saving five to ten minutes.
Your face needs exfoliation too. Without it, your makeup may look patchy and be hard to blend. At the drugstore, find St. Ive’s Apricot Scrub ($3.50) to cleanse and exfoliate. Or invest in Dr. Brandt’s Mocrodermabrasion in a Jar ($75.) This treatment uses magnesium crystal oxides to immediately improve the texture and appearance of skin by smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. It even improves acne.
With the right exfoliate and moisturizer, your makeup will smooth on and blend much more naturally. I use Oil of Olay’s Complete All Day Moisturizing Lotion SPF 15 Daily after I cleanse each night and before I apply makeup in the morning. It never leaves my skin feeling oily, and includes an SPF 15. Even in winter, experts recommend wearing an SPF daily, If you are hitting the slopes, you’ll find it absolutely necessary; snow reflects the sun, which can cause severe sunburn.
Always let your moisturizer dry before applying makeup, to avoid diluting your foundation. And don’t forget your lips! Grab a lip balm containing a SPF 15 or higher and reapply every hour, if possible. I suggest Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm ($2.50), which protects lips using ingredients such as emollient lanolin and almond oil. My favorite part is the added peppermint for a tingle that feels absolutely amazing on dry, chapped lips. On the other hand, Fresh Sugar Lip Calm SPF 15 ($22) uses real sugar to replenish lips, yet it also contains essential fatty acids, giving lips an extra plump!
Indoor heating, especially forced-air heating, can also affect your skin by lowering humidity. Notice how dry your nasal passages feel during the winter? Just imagine what your skin is going through! But you can restore your indoor environment with a good humidifier. Or simply turn down your thermostat and do something nice for your skin and your budget.
Lastly, dress in layers. Sweating underneath clothes is the most common cause of dry skin and itching. By dressing in layers, you can remove or add clothing as needed. Wear natural fibers next to your skin (cotton under layers are perfect) and keep your layers loose-fitting. Fortunately, baggy clothing are trendy this year, as are oversized sunglasses.
Have fun with your clothing this winter, layering and accessorizing to create outfits that will not only look great, but will help keep your skin warm, dry and healthy.
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