Yes it tis’ the season to look your most beautiful self! And to be cheery about it! Yes the holidays are just right around the corner! And now is the time to start preparing those holiday gift ideas. Or adding the latest cosmetic line of colors to your own beauty routine! With so many parties to go to. As well as entertaining in your own home with guests and family. The holidays bring out lots of sparkle and shine. So now is the time to add this to your eye shadows, blushes and lip glosses! I have selected Smashbox - one of my own favorite cosmetic brands! And bringing to you the latest fall colors of 2008! Remember when looking for the right fall colors, pick your favorite brand and go to your local cosmetic representative at either Nordstrom or Saks and get a free make-over! Yes, they will do this for you! As these skillfully trained beauty consultants will get the right colors for your skin tone. And will have you walking away with the right foundation, eye shadows and lip color. Unique to you. So have fun this holiday season! ~

RAPTURE BEST OF SMASHBOX KIT Value $42 for only $19.00!

My pick for best value out the Smashbox collection is the Rapture best of Smashbox kit. Which includes Smashbox best-sellers for eyes, cheeks and lips in convenient travel sizes - perfect for your holiday clutch or carry-on. The set includes Bionic Mascara in Jet Black, mini fusion soft lights in Dusk, and mini lip enhancing gloss in Aura. All for $19.00! The fusion soft lights can also be used on eyes as a soft, shimmering shadow. Blend the colors together for a radiant halo of color, or use different shades to contour and highlight.

INSIDER SECRET #9: Add extra sparkle to the holidays. To brighten & open up eyes, apply gold or white shimmering shadow to the inner corners for dazzling results.

RAPTURE LIP GLOSS SET Limited Edition! Value $90 - Retails at $29.00

Get glam with this party-perfect set of award-winning, ultra moisturizing lip gloss. The set includes three best-selling shades and three holiday exclusives. Wear alone or layer together for instant color and stunning shine!

Source: Smashbox Cosmetics

Article by © Jacqueline H. - Senior Writer 2008

Juicy Couture wool newsboy/beret hat - Retails $65.00 from Nieman Marcus

Juicy Couture graffiti wool skull hat ,$55.00 from select Juicy Couture Stores.

Missoni Intarsia-patterned hat in knit wool blend - $198.00 from Nordstom

I love the fall! As it is a really fun time to get your hats on! Now if you already have a nice selection of hats. Then it won’t be too much for you to add a few more hats to your collection. Or if you don’t have any at all for the season change. I have made some wonderful suggestions for you. From the top we have the classic Burberry hat. In their classic signature check pattern which retails at $146.25. You can buy this classic British hat from any of your local Nordstrom, Saks or Nieman Marcus locations. Or even specialty designer boutiques will carry most designer lines such as Burberry. Remember to add that classic Burberry scarf to the mix! Two of of my other choices are both hats from the Juicy Couture collection. Again very functional and fun, these hats are affordable and also look great. Go for the classic wool beret which a nice bow detail. Or stay casual with their skull caps, which are a designer bargain at only $55.00. Match that up with their scarves and gloves. You will be looking Juicy Couture in no time. And to finish this round of hats. I chose Missoni as my last pick. Fun, functional and always colorful. A Missoni Intarsia-patterned hat in knit wool blend, will fit the ticket for all you colorful fashionistas out there.

Source: Nordstrom, Nieman Marcus, Saks, Bloomingdales

Article by © Jacqueline H. - Senior Writer 2008

Now heres a fashion wardrobe idea for you. For your look this fall, combine a grey turtleneck dress. With a double wrap belt and of course that essential a - Rebecca Minkoff handbag.

These ultra stylish items will look great all combined together. keeping you on top of the fashion trend this fall.

100% genuine Italian leather - Double wrap belt

One of Linea Pelle’s trendy designs for fall is the studded double wrap belt in mahogany. This sleek belt has medium sized dome studs encircling the leather. And a square brass buckle closure for an edgy appearance.

Rebecca Minkoff French Tote

This french tote is perfect for traveling on the open road - just throw in your laptop and a snack and you are off. With its structured shape and oh-so-retro stripes, you will be able to pull off looking cute in the office as well. However you do it this fall, the look you can achieve will be very stylish indeed.

Source: TheFind.com

Article by © Jacqueline H. - Senior Writer 2008

We have all been waiting for the next hit from the Bond franchise! That debonair 007 and his latest flick Quantum of Solace hits theaters this Friday November 14th.
But maybe you have also seen those quite seductive TV slots and adverts for the new fragrance Bond Girl 007 - featuring the new star of running ladies to hit the sack with Bond. None other than British beauty - Gemma Arterton. Yes this new classic beauty is the face of this campaign with Avon Products, Inc.

They had announced collaboration with the James Bond entertainment franchise to create a new signature Bond Girl 007 women’s fragrance. Bringing the confident allure of cinema’s sexiest icons to Avon consumers worldwide. British actress Gemma Arterton, who plays the role of Agent Fields in the upcoming Bond film, will be the face of the new fragrance. She has appeared on TV and print advertising when Bond Girl 007 launches in conjunction with the worldwide release of Quantum of Solace.

“I’m thrilled to be working with two such iconic and established brands,” said Gemma Arterton. “The Bond Girl 007 fragrance embodies everything a Bond Girl represents — intelligence, sexiness and confidence.” Says Gemma the new face of Avon’s Bond Girl 007.

The classic and alluring look of Bond Girl 007 - Shaken, but not stirred…

The scent is a sexy cocktail of velvety florals, cool freshness and warm woods. It features top notes of velvety white peach and orange blossom followed by mid-notes of jasmine, calypso orchid and freesia. The dry down consists of amber, cashmere wood and patchouli. Bond Girl 007 is housed in a sleek, seductive bottle reminiscent of a woman’s body. The cap is a stealthy homage to a Bond spy gadget.

Well ladies it looks like I may just have to try this newly seductive fragrance by Avon. And see if it lives up to its name of Bond classics as the ultimate man magnet. Or should I say, Bond magnet. Stay tuned to Couture in the City to see our reviews of this latest fragrance.

Source: Comingsoon.net, Avon

Article by © Jacqueline H. - Senior Writer 2008

Enter our Invisibelt - all belt & no bulk contest! Tell us how you could use one of these very trendy belts, and how it can enhance your life!

So enter our Invisiblet contest today and tell us how this fabulous accessory can enhance your life! Send your comments to Jacquelineh@coutureinthecity.com by midnight tonight. And title your email Invisibelt Contest. This contest will run until November 10th 2008. So get your comments in to win!

The invisibelt retails for $19.99 and is available at www.invisibelt.com.

Chloè Bronze Frill Sleeve Dress - $477.34. The frill sleeves and waist belt are flattering all the right places and the bronze is a great colour for autumn. Wear with black tights to enhance the impact of the colour.

Now there is absolutely nothing wrong with buying designer brands. On the contrary, it is a discovery into ones personal style, taste, and of course our personal ticket into fashion. Now upon closer review, a few of my favorite brands (and I am quite sure yours too). Are Marc Jacobs, Chloè, and of course that priceless accessory - the diamond. But my choice today are Deco diamonds.

Sample a Marc Jacobs on for size. You can never go wrong with this luxury designer brand out of New York. And with so many handbag design choices, you will have a hard time picking one. So I recommend two!

Marc Jacobs - MIA LEATHER SATCHEL - $984.00

Deco diamond jewelry is very decadent. I would recommend a piece as a purely exceptional hand in luxury. Here are a few of my choices.

Peter Lam 3/8 ctw Diamond Art Deco Pendant - $1,299.00

A romantic design inspired by the Art Deco period, this pendant features 4 invisible-set princess cut diamonds surrounded by round diamonds set in a scroll of 18K yellow gold. Includes a multi-strand twist chain of matching yellow gold, 18 inches with safety clasp. The innovative jewelry designs of Peter Lam are treasured throughout the world.

Michele Deco Diamond - Ladies Watch - $930.00

Source: TheFind.com

Article by © Jacqueline H. - Senior Writer 2008

Enter our Invisibelt - all belt & no bulk contest! Tell us how you could use one of these very trendy belts, and how it can enhance your life! As one of the latest trends hitting the runway, belts are a hot trend right now. So along comes Invisibelt to solve our belt-sizing woes!
We’ve all been there–putting on that adorable new fall sweater with our favorite jeans and there it is: that unsightly waistline bulge-eek! Eliminate the problem with Invisibelt- the functional and totally affordable solution. Not only is Invisibelt undetectable under your favorite form-fitting tops, it’s a sensible alternative to bringing your pants to the tailor when they’re a pinch too big AND provides an instant slimming effect!

Learn how to use the Invisibelt - and get it just right! Log onto How to use Invisibelt to find out more!

The Invisibelt is for any woman who wants to look her best when dressed. We all have those pants that are a pinch too big in the waist that we don’t want to alter. This functional, undetectable and affordable belt allows women to wear today’s fashions, which include longer t-shirts and sweaters, sheer tunics, and both high-rise and lower rise pants, without the problematic belt buckle bulge. It’s also ideal for those pants (especially jeans) which start out snug and stretch out over the course of a day. A bra-like adjuster makes it a cinch to adjust to your size!

Our Couture staff tried and tested the new Invisibelt! Here is what our Editor had to say!

“I am a huge accessories fan and I love belts. But I have always hated that you always end up with excess bulge when wearing fitted tops. I was very pleased when I found out about Invisibelt. What a great concept! Invisibelt totally disappears under those form fitting tops. You just adjust to your perfect size and off you go! I think every fashionista should own one. Now I have a belt that is invisible and I love it!”
Angelique Sims - Editor - Couture in the City

So enter our Invisiblet contest today and tell us how this fabulous accessory can enhance your life! Send your comments to Jacquelineh@coutureinthecity.com. And title your email Invisibelt Contest. This contest will run until November 10th 2008. So get your comments in to win!

The invisibelt retails for $19.99 and is available at www.invisibelt.com

Article by © Jacqueline H. - Senior Writer 2008

PeaceKeeper 400, $85.00

Pursuader in silver leather, $379.00

Tinkerbell, $317.00

It’s a tough world out their…but looking fabulous and fierce is a sign of our times. Enter James Piatt handbags, truly some of the most one of a kind designs on the market today. Not just pretty, Piatt’s bags offer poignant commentary about violence, celebrity, and yes, fashion.

It all started with Piatt’s “Peacekeeper” bag, which was created by Piatt as a gift for a friend. Featuring a brass knuckle-like handle, this haut handbag is more than just a place to put your lip gloss, but a way to protect yourself. Like all good ideas, word about the Peacekeeper flourished and now Piatt has a team to help him create his unique vision.

In all honesty, I can’t believe that I haven’t seen some celebrity pictured with Piatt’s “Pursuader” bag. While I wouldn’t encourage someone to bring it to school, this gun-shaped bag is luxe and edgy at the same time.

Not for the faint of heart, Piatt also offers the “Tinkerbell” bag, which is entirely more than meets the eye. Based on Paris Hilton’s discarded Chihuaha of the same name, this grim yet intriguing design feaures, yes, a dead chihuaha. “This design capitalizes on the trend of carrying a small dog as an accessory,” (source ).  I think that I love the “X”’s over his eyes the best.

Check out James Piatt’s website to find out more about these bags, peruse his art or see his super cool gallery with these bags featuring hot Russian-esque chicks and war scenese (love).

I know its fall and verging on winter in most parts of the world. But to some of you it is still summer. Or you may want to do that fall/winter vacation to somewhere warm like Spain, Mexico, or the Bahamas. But if you’re a Miami or LA native, you’re going to love this new line of sporty and casual sandals from San Clemente, California - Ocean Minded.
This very clever and innovative brand uses all recycled materials with their shoe products! They use top quality natural and sustainable materials whenever possible. Now being ocean minded their staff and crew strives to protect the Earths most precious resources, the oceans, lakes, and streams. Making the commitment to advertise this philosophy to buyers to help pick up trash when visiting their favorite beach or lake. Of course Gary Ward, the president and founder lives strongly by this policy - and so does his staff.
But sticking to fashion, they have a wonderful array of women’s and men’s sandals to choose from. And at a great price! Ranging from $35 -$55.00 is the average price. And I picked my personal favorites from the collection for both men and women! So log onto Ocean Minded today and get your sandals for that fall vacation!

Women’s Ridge Sandal - $35.00 - My personal favorite!

Men’s Lowers Shoe - $55.00

Source: Ocean Minded

Article by © Jacqueline H. - Senior Writer 2008

Well to jump start this fashion craving we have come up with our top five run down of things we want, wish we had, and crave!

1. A Louis Vuitton Handbag

Now a Louis Vuitton handbag is definitely on every girl’s wish list and handbag cravings. It is and always will be an ongoing trend. So we know that we want one. But some of us have to do with those knock off’s just to submit to the need. But at almost $3,000+ for a handbag…we can keep craving.

2. A Pair of Jimmy Choo Shoes

Grant Silk satin peep toe shoe £525.00 ($1,044.00)

Now when I first heard of Jimmy Choo, I was very confused. I was like who is this guy and why are his shoes so popular - and expensive? Only to discover that the CEO is Tamara Mellon, who approached Mr. Jimmy Choo in London. An exceptional shoe designer. They partnered, and $100 million dollars later with a global empire. A happy success story. But you now know how craved a pair of Jimmy Choo’s is.~

3. A weekend in a Spa Retreat

I know that I crave this one! And a girl can never crave too many spa retreats! A great retreat is the Enchantment Resort. This former private ranch in Red Rock Country has architecture that “blends in with the natural beauty of the surroundings.” Rooms in rich earth-tone colors include beehive fireplaces and decks with views of Boynton Canyon. Mii Amo, which means “one’s path” in the local Yuman language, incorporates Native American rituals into its Inner Quest spa treatment.

4. Designer Lip Gloss

Dior Addict Lip Gloss - $24.50

One of the easier things we can actually add to our beauty routine! Dior Lip Addict (that could not have been worded any better!) is a great lip gloss and something that we feel we need - and can actually have!

5. A Glass of Champagne

La Grande Champagne - Designer Champagne: Exclusive Veuve Cliquot in ice bucket casing

I can’t think of any better way to finish our search for the top five cravings than to finish with an exceptional glass of champagne. Designer champagne that is! These champagnes are never short of bliss, be it for the liquid inside or the casing outside. But what makes the La Grande special is that a special casket/casing that doubles up as an ice bucket. That has been touched upon by none other than Andree Putman, a leading interior designer of the modern world. This special luxurious offering is available with only selective dealers. And as they say, exclusivity never has refined price! So let us just end it here by citing an estimated value of around $485!

Source: Louis Vuitton, Bornrich.org, Conde Nast, Sephora, Jimmy Choo

Article by © Jacqueline H. - Senior Writer 2008