I was listening to the news the other day, when I heard an interesting tidbit that I thought I’d pass along to you. It seems that the popularity of online dating services is on the wane. The main reason cited, was that people misrepresented themselves. DOH! If the news reporters had only been on a few of my dates, they’d have laughed themselves silly. Yup, I am a veteran of online dating. One date had seriously photo shopped his picture. In it, he had blonde hair, goatee, tiny rimless glasses, was thin and very cute. In person, well let’s just say that any hair he had was in his imagination. He was also much larger than his picture. Did I mention that in person he looked old enough to be my dad? Did he misrepresent himself? You be the judge.

So what are your plans for New Year’s Eve? Are you going out or staying in. There are so many parties and so events going on that it’s hard to make a choice.

Wherever you go, don’t forget your Lip Lingerie. It’s a fabulous line created by Miss Diane Brill. This is a woman who knows how to have fun. She’s been hailed as New York’s “Queen of The Night” modeled in fashion shows, is a correspondent for the UK show, “This Morning” and has written a book, “Boobs, Boys & High Heels – or How to get Dressed in Just Under Six Hours.” As you can tell by the title, it’s a witty guide about women and dating.

Dianne’s line of lip wear is attractively packaged in pink (natch) with clever details. The lipsticks have little notes written by Dianne for you to read tucked into the box. They’re clever little hints on how to make you feel sexy. The lipstick casing looks like fishnet stockings. The lipstick contains an anti-feathering formula, and ingredients like grapeseed oil (an antioxidant) and squalene, milk agents and chamomile. These ingredients moisturize and protect your lips. The lipstick also contains a plumping agent, making your lips ready to be smooched. There are twelve delicious lipsticks in all. I tried 36-24-36; it’s a warm nude color. The lipstick feels like a gloss, has full coverage like a lipstick and wears really well.

Her lip glosses are bon bons. Really! The lip glosses come packaged just like a bon bon with a frilly cotton skirt that surrounds the gloss. Twist off the cap and you have a minute mirror so you can either discretely re-apply the gloss or torture your date while you play peek-a-boo with your lips and the gloss. I tried Bullet Bra; it’s a true glamorous red. Shiny, wet looking and has got pizzazz. It’s as sexy and as timeless as Marilyn Monroe’s allure. The other 13 shades are just as snazzy.

Not only are the glosses sexy, they contain more than 20% of vitamins, antioxidants, moisturizers, and of course a lip plumper. The frosted shades contain tiny amounts of sterling silver to make your lips really shimmer.

The packaging of her lip liner is way too cute. It looks like a cigar case for a girl. Best of all, the liner has a small brush on one end (and it works amazingly well) and the pencil is on the other end. It’s great to use to define your lips. The liner works well with the gloss and the lipstick. Or use the liner alone to color you lips, then slick on some vitamin E and you’re done. I road tested Chiffon Garter. It’s a true red. It went wonderfully well with the lip gloss I tested. I also used it to spice up a lipstick from my own collection. The other four shades will work well with any lipstick in your collection.

The Lip Lingerie is not only great for your lips, they’re great props to pull out and tease the boys when you go out. The packaging is girly yet sexy. As Dianne said, “I designed Lip Lingerie for a woman to slip on and be kissed in.”

You can pick up Lip Lingerie at Henri Bendel, Fred Segal, Louis Boston, www.abeautifullife.net and http://www.beautyhabit.com To find out more about the line go to http://www.liplingerie.com.

Do you have a metrosexual in your life? Tell them to check out The Metrosexual Tarot . http://www.thomasscoville.com/metrosexual It’s a tarot deck in progress designed by Thomas Scoville and Hughes Hall. Everything takes place in the city – will the hapless metrosexual get the Barista card? What does the five of forks mean? And is it a good or bad thing if he draws the Stylist card…cue scary music. The site is whimsical and fun.

Speaking of fun, want to learn to Salsa? Champion Dance Studios have open classes; this means you can start learning any time. They do take walk-ins, you don’t have to register. The classes are pay as you go instead of buying a package. Beginners classes are Wednesdays 7:30PM – 9:30 PM and cost $12.00. For more information contact the instructor Cindy Osorio at 646-345-8926 or go to the website http://www.cinsationaldancer.com/new/main/dance_instruction.php

Champion Dance Studios
257 West 39th Street (between 7 & 8 Avenues)
14th floor, ring buzzer 0012

If you like vintage clothes and helping a good cause, head on over to The United Action for Animals Thrift Shop. They’ve got vintage and designer clothing, jewelry, accessories, books and other merchandise for you to take home and love. The proceeds go to help abandoned and at-risk animals.

United Action for Animals Thrift Shop
402B East 80th Street, just off 1st Ave
Monday – Saturday 10AM – 5 PM
212-249-9178

I hope you found lots of lovely prezzies under the tree. This was my first year as a dog owner. I had no idea that your friends’ dogs also do a gift exchange. Do I need to mention that I now have to scramble and get some doggie gifts?

Can someone tell me where the year went? I can’t believe that this year is over. How was yours? Did you accomplish goals? Meet new people? Find some fabulous shoes?

If you like to get presents in your email inbox all year long, go to http://bordersstores.com and sign up for their Borders mail. Almost every week you’ll find coupons for discounts to their Dean & Delucca cafés, or discount coupons on books, DVDs, and CDs. They’ll even let you know when they’re having a sale. This is how I bought my 2005 calendar for 50% off yesterday; I got a friendly email letting me know about the calendar sale. Usually (like most New Yorkers), I wait until the first of the year, then run to another large book chain and buy my calendar on sale. This year it was nice to be a head of the pack.

It’s snowing and the city looks pretty covered in a pristine white blanket. I’m poking my head out of the window, and see the snow sparkling on the ground. I guess it’s official; it’s winter and time to freeze.

Your skin takes a beating when the temp drops and moisturizer becomes your best friend. If there was a makeup base that had a 20 SPF, replenishes the skin with wild yam and sea algae, helped diminish signs of aging and makes you glow, would you try it?

Now you can. Lancome has created a makeup base for their Absolue line. Absolue is a range of skincare for women in their 40′s to 50′s who are concerned with dryness, age spots, dullness and other signs of aging. This base contains Lancome’s exclusive Bio-Network formula; it’s an anti-aging formula that fights dryness and loss of elasticity.

Absolue Makeup also contains licorice root extract; this clarifies the skin and evens out the complexion. There are also micro-pearls that make the skin look luminous. It’s a rich creamy foundation that slides effortlessly on your face. It’s not heavy or greasy. It’s nice to know that not only will the foundation give you a nice even look, hide dark circles, but feeds your skin with anti-aging and moisturizing formulas. It will moisturize and replenish your skin for 12 hours, and contains anti-oxidants.

I’ve road tested it for the past two weeks and I’m impressed with it. Even though my skin isn’t extremely dry and I’m not in that age group, my skin looked and felt great. I’m very pale, the base matched my natural color, looked natural and best of all, and I got compliments on looking so “glowy” and well rested. I loved that, since I never get enough sleep. It’s become my (now not so) secret weapon.

The foundation comes in seven shades, is non-comedogenic, dermatologist tested, and recommended for dry to very dry skin.

You’ll be able to purchase the Absolue Makeup in January at any LancàƒÆ’à†’àƒâ€šà‚´me counter or at www.lancome.com in January.

If you weren’t able to see houses decorated in all their holiday glory, or if you’re still hankering to see more houses in lights, check out the Ugly Christmas Lights website, http://www.uglychristmaslights.com/ You’ll see pictures of homes that have more lights than some small towns, Sponge Bob Square Pants and dinosaur Christmas decorations and other holiday fare. Besides insanely decorated homes, you’ll also be able to view more traditionally decorated ones.

If you’ve been thinking about dieting, you might want to read some interesting news at the Carb Wire website, http://www.carbwire.com/. You’ll pick up low carb recipes, news and reviews about all the low carb products that seem to be flooding the market.

Chris March is a transplanted San Franciscan now living in New York City. He’s a writer, model, director, film maker and costume designer. Chris has created some of the most outrageous wigs ever seen, including a six foot high beehive wig that was inspired by John Water’s movie Hairspray. He has worked for Disney, Timex, Joe Boxer and other large firms. In 2001, Chris was nominated for the Outstanding Costume Design Drama Desk Award for costume design for the Off Broadway show, “Christmas with the Crawfords.” His website will make you giggle and say, “wow.” Gr8BigHair is the perfect way to break Monday’s doldrums. Head on over to http://www.gr8bighair.com/ it’ll make your day a bit brighter.

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to spend more time in the scariest room in the house, the kitchen, you might want to go over to Kitsch N’ Glam. They’ve got fun and sexy aprons designed by Anna Michelle Wang. NBC’s The Today Show picked her aprons as the top pick for hostess gifts. The site’s motto is “Life Happens. Look Fabulous.” Can anyone argue with that? http://www.kitchnglam.com/main.php

Imaginary Heroes – written and directed by Dan Harris, Starring – Sigourney Weaver, Jeff Daniels, Emile Hirsch, Kip Pardue, Michelle Williams

Once again we enter the territory mined by the novels of John Updike, and movies like The Ice Age and American Beauty. As we wander through the landscape of upper middle class America, we find yet once again, while they may be glossier than most of us, they may have more accessories and money, once you scratch the surface, they are just as confused, depressed, name your own emotion/adjective as the rest of the planet.

This time around, we visit the Travis family; they inhabit an unnamed quasi-posh neighborhood in New Jersey. Sandy (Sigourney Weaver) and Ben (Jeff Daniels) have the requisite three kids – Matt (Kip Pardue) who’s swimming his way to the Olympics, eldest daughter Penny (Michelle Williams) a smart and pretty college co-ed, and teenage Tim (Emile Hirsch) a popular and smart high school senior. When tragedy befalls the family, we watch how they cope and survive it during a year filled with pathos, absurdities and laughter.

While the plot is something we have all seen before, it’s beautifully textured, and contains snappy and insightful dialogue. New Yorkers will delight in a cameo by underground darlings Kiki and Herb. Many, me included with have parent envy; Sigourney Weaver is àƒÆ’à†’àƒâ€šà‚¼ber Mom. Funny, compassionate and all knowing. Emile Hirsch, who has been seen lately in The Girl Next Door and The Emperor’s Club, is Tim Travis. His portrayal is seamless; he doesn’t act as much as become the part.

While the main characters of Sandy, Ben and Tim are well-drawn out, other characters seem lost in the periphery or are stock characters without any depth. It isn’t until half-way through the film that we find out anything at all about Penny, and of course Tim’s best friend is a stoner.

The other flaws to this film are a scene or two that are used only to illustrate a character’s flaws rather than to move the story along. Speaking of plot, at one point the movie almost derails into a Lifetime Movie Channel movie, but is pulled back from the brink.

I’m not saying that this is a bad or bathetic movie; it isn’t, it just needed a bit of judicious editing. It’s wry, sensitive and while sometimes bowing to conventions, it really is a smart and clever story.

Imaginary Heroes will alas, be playing for one week only at the Angelika Film Center in New York and the Sunset 5 in Los Angeles starting on December 17. The movie will re-open in New York and Los Angeles and nationally in mid-February 2005. Don’t wait be ahead of the curve. While a tad flawed, this is still a gem of a movie.

So you’ve got all these great holiday parties to go to, and you want to look glam and hot for them. Don’t forget your nails. Luscious Cosmetics has just the thing for your desire for glitz and glitter.

Luscious Cosmetics Nail Lacquers, Crystal Sealant, Top Coat and Crystal Nail Lacquer Refills will do the job nicely. The crystal nail lacquers comes in 11 shades, from nude to purple. Each shade has a tiny compartment where 80 color-coordinated Swarovski Austrian Crystals are stored. You can create your own design on one or all your nails. The top coat and sealant locks the look.

You can pickup the glittery nail collection at a Sephora near you, http://www.sephora.com or check out www.lusciouscosmetics.com for more information on where to find a boutique near you that carries them.

Speaking about nails, it’s been just about two weeks since I had the Nearly Perfect Manicure. How’s it holding up? I saw Michelle today; she couldn’t believe that my manicure is that old. She kept saying, “But it looks new!” over and over again. The nails are still glossy and fresh looking. No chips, dinks, or breaks. Nothing has lifted or cracked. This is the first time in my life that I’ve had a manicure look so great for so long. Want one of your own? Make an appointment at the Acqua Beauty Bar, 7 E14th Street, 212-620-4329

If you’ve been caught up in the Harry Potter craze (and who isn’t?) good news! The next book in the saga, “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince” will be out in your bookstore July 16, 2005. Do you think it’s too early to pre-order?

Woot.com is a website that’s really addictive. They sell one item a day at great prices. Today, until 11:59PM they’re selling a Cuisinart brushed stainless steel blender for $39.99. Just one item a day, every day of the week. Who knows what they’ll have tomorrow. It’s something different every day.

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine is an Episcopal church that houses a torah, has artists and poets in residence, an amazing art collection and regularly holds concerts. It’s build in the Gothic style, and construction was once halted in protest towards the housing problems of the City’s Poor. It’s not completely finished. Over the holiday weekend, take a walking tour of the church. It’s only $3.00 and a lot of fun. You’ll see the sculpture garden, learn more about the city’s history and enjoy yourself. To find out more about the church and its various programs, concerts and shows go to http://www.stjohndivine.org To get there take the B or C to 110 and CPW walk up the hill. Or the 1/9 train to 110 and Broadway, walk west it’s one long block.

Do you love vintage clothing but don’t know your Lilli Ann from your Hattie Carnegie? Head on over to Fashion Dig. There’s online vintage clothing stores and articles on what is and isn’t vintage and how to care for them. There’s an online community so you can hook up with other vintage fashionistas, links and a list of recommended books. To learn more go to http://www.fashiondig.com

You want to keep your lips luscious looking all year long. Most of the time upkeep is easy; slick on some lip balm with an SPF, follow with your lipstick or gloss, then go. Winter is brutal for your skin, and your lips can take it especially hard. They get chapped, itchy and need extra special care.

Grab The LipKit, not only is it your defense against the elements, it’s the secret to great sexy, healthy lips.

The LipKit contains five products that will make your lips look plump, full and kissable. Start your regimen with the Lip Renew stick. It’s an exfoliator that gently removes dead skin. Before you sleep and anytime during the day, apply Lip Dew on your lips. It’s a Vitamin E stick that you can wear with lipstick for extra shine. It does double duty and can be applied to anywhere on your face that has a bit of dryness. The Lip Fill is a wand that you can use all year long to prevent feathering and conditions your lips at the same time. If you’re looking for full plump lips a la Angelina Jolie or Kim Bassinger, use the Lip Plumper. It helps your lips look full and sexy. You’ll feel a little tingle as they get fuller. To keep your lipstick on longer, seal it with Lip Keep. It locks in your color, so you wear it and your coffee cup doesn’t.

The kit comes in a small zippered mesh bag; just throw it in your bag and go. It’s so easy to use and the results are immediate. The Lip Dew is especially nice to have in this weather. The Vitamin E is a wonderful barrier against the elements, it’s weightless, unscented and gives a nice gloss to your lips.

The LipKit was created by Dr. Bruce G. Freund. He is a cosmetic and restorative dentist. Dr. Freund has been on the faculty of both Mt. Sinai and NYU Dental Schools, is an authority on veneers and a was named one of “America’s Top Dentists” in a survey taken by Consumer’s Research Council of America for the years 2002 – 2003 and 2003-2004. Dr. Fruend has created the first Lip Clinic and Spa. This Spa is in his practice, The NJ Center for Cosmetic, Laser & Implant Dentistry in New Jersey.

To purchase the LipKit, visit the website http://www.thelipclinic.com Dr. Fruend’s Practice is The NJ Center for Cosmetic, Laser & Implant Dentistry in New Jersey. 510 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632 1-800-761-SMILE

Oh Baby it’s cold outside! You can’t feel your face, and you’ve got so many layers on, you can’t move. So, what are you doing to keep your pooch warm in this hellacious weather? Are you throwing a mini horse blanket over your dog? This winter, think bright colors, cheerful appliques and fun trims for your fur baby.

Head on over to anklebiters~nyc for fleece snowsuits that will make your puppy the talk of the dog run.

You’ll find gingham coats with velvet trims, sweaters, tees and other accessories to not only keep your dog warm, but ahead of the fashion pack. Jannese is the designer of this doggie couture line, and yes she does make custom outfits. So if you need that last pet present, go to anklebiters~nyc. http://www.anklebitersnyc.com

Seriously Fun Pet Fashion
http://www.anklebitersnyc.com

Do you know that is was 15 degrees for most of Monday? Ugh. Cold weather can make you cranky and sad. The perfect antidote is PSNBC’s Tuesday’s at the Marquee! This Tuesday, the 21st it’s the Midnight Pajama Jam. Join Scott Fellers, puppets, fake experts, Jon Benjamin (“Dr. Katz”), John Glaser (“Conan”), Slovin & Allen (“SNL” writers) and Eugene Mirman (“Conan” “Premium Blend”) for a belated Chanukah celebration. For more information about PSNBC, go to http://www.nbc.com/nbc/footer/PSNBC/about.shtml

Midnight Pajama Jam@ The Marquee
356 Bowery (between Great Jones & E. 4th)
Show 8 PM, tickets $5.00
212-664-2957

Another good reason to leave the house….Sample Sales and Major Markdowns!

Tuleh is having a spring and fall merchandise sale, 75% to 90% off today from 11 AM – 6 PM.

Tuleh
181 Chrystie Street
212-979-7888

Sigerson Morrison’s Famous shoe sale is on now. As it gets closer to the end of the sale, the prices drop. But, the selection dwindles. Sale ends January 2. Hours; Monday – Saturday 11AM – 7 PM, Sunday Noon – 6 PM.

Sigerson Morrison
242 Mott Street
212-941-5239
or 28 Prince Street
212-219-3893

Patti Rose is present a sample sale with designers Micheel Kors and Bill Blass. Other designers on sale are Chanel, Prada, Fendi and others. Today 2 PM – 7 PM. Wednesday 9 AM – 6 PM.

Patti Rose
124 E. 58th Street (between Park & Lex)
917-533-1022

It’s time for Alexia Crawford’s annual holiday sample sale. Trendy fashion jewelry, handbags, and other accessories are on sale now below wholesale. Monday through Friday 11AM – 7 PM.

Alexia Crawford Sample Sale
35 W. 36th Street (between 5th &6th Avenues)
10th Floor
212-629-6615

Do you have curly hair like me? It’s constant struggle to make it behave. I married my blow dryer. My hands hurt, I kept bonking myself in the eye with the round brush, and I was a sweaty and exhausted mess when it was done. Joy of joys! It never lasted more than a day or two. After watching SATC, I finally had the courage (thank you Sarah Jessica Parker) to say, “I have curly hair and I’m going to let it be.” Even if you let it be, it’s still hard to maintain. Our hair is drier than straight hair. We need special conditioners and shampoos. Curly hair is harder to cut, so we need someone who knows and loves curly hair as much as we do. In this city of a thousand and one salons, where do you go? What do you use to make your hair look its curly best and be healthy too?

Ouidad. That’s where you go. Ouidad is like us, she has a mane of gorgeous black curly hair. And just like us, she spent years and years trying to make it into something that it wasn’t. One day she had an epiphany, embraced her curls and decided to create a salon. A salon that gave curly heads the right cut for their unique hair. That was back in 1983 and Ouidad hasn’t stopped since. Not only is there a gorgeous, sexy and modern salon on West 57th Street; there are affiliated salons across the country, and a product line that’s especially formulated for curly hair.

Let me tell you about my experience at Ouidad.

It’s Saturday, kinda warm, kinda crazy with all those shoppers and tourists on the street. I zigzag my way down 57th Street, nearly collide with people who should be walking in Topeka, not New York City, find 37 West 57th street, and zip into the elevator to the fourth floor. The elevator opens up and I’m in the salon. It’s huge, 5000 square feet of wood floors, walls done in soft sage and natural tones, mirrors and lots of lovely light. There are faux lizard couches and it’s busy. I’m surrounded by men and women with curly hair! It’s like a curly hair convention, and I love every minute of it. There are waves; there are ringlets, tight curls, and loose curls -curls everywhere! Women and men of every age group looking fab and happy with curls.

I’m introduced to Ayanna. She’s a Top Stylist and Educator. Ayanna and Ouidad fly all over the country teaching her patented “carving and slicing” technique for cutting curly hair at affiliated Ouidad salons.

Ayanna sits me down in a chair and we have a consultation. She’s looking at my hair while I’m asking her a thousand questions. Every time I mention that my hair is weird, I am corrected. “No, curly hair is a blessing” she tells me. When I mention that I’m the only one with curly hair in my family, she says, “Well, you’re the lucky one then.” Thank you Ayanna, you’re right. Curly hair is a blessing and when you get right down to it; all your features are a blessing. Whatever you have is wonderful and when you downgrade what you have, you downgrade yourself. So, mental note to me, and some advice for you – love what you have, be kind to yourself – we’re all we’ve got and we’re fabulous.

Getting back to the salon, I tell Ayanna that my hair is curly and wavy, with straight bits underneath. Is this normal? Ayanna explains that most people have anywhere from two to four types of curl and straightness to their hair and it’s very common to have more than one curl pattern on your head.

After discussing length, I ask her about the “carving and slicing” method that Ouidad created, is it done with scissors and a razor? Just a razor? I’m told that it’s scissors only, because razors can promote frizz, and the hair is cut in such a way (almost at a diagonal) that instead of getting pyramid head (we know what that’s like) it’s hair that flows evenly from the scalp down.

As Ayanna is shampooing my hair she tells me about the products. Ouidad’s products (all of them, including the styling aids) are silicone, wax, animal fat, and alcohol free. They’re all water based. Nothing that will weigh down, dry out or coat your hair. The products contain botanicals like aloe vera, vitamins and fruit acids. Once rinsed, Ayanna applied Botanical Boost Spray – In Conditioner. She mentioned that you can use it wet or dry to boost, revive and keep your hair looking good throughout the day.

Ayanna and I walked back to her station and the cutting began followed by a deep moisturizing treatment. Ouidad’s Deep Treatment Intensive Conditioner is a monthly “must” for curly hair. It revitalizes and nourishes your hair. Ayanna mixed the Deep Treatment Intensive Conditioner with a little bit of the Balancing Rinse Conditioner. It’s a detangler that closes the cuticle. Then we walked back up front. I went under a dryer for a few minutes and ogled boots in magazines, while my hair ate up the nutrients. Once rinsed, Ayanna applied some more Botanical Boost Spray -In Conditioner and a small amount of the Tress FX Styling Gel. She then proceeded to show me the correct way to scrunch your hair. First, divide the hair horizontally in three sections. Bottom, middle, and temporal to temporal. Then apply the gel to each section. When scrunching, ONLY do it to the side. Don’t flip your hair from side to side; don’t flip your head down. After you’ve scrunched the hair, slowly release it and shake it loose. When you’re doing the temporal part, you separate the pieces in front of you face and do that last. If you want a bit of height, simply slide in clips to the sections on your crown where you want it. You can either air dry your hair, use a diffuser, or get a bonnet attachment for your blow dryer and let the cool air from the blow dryer softly dry it for you.

Ayanna, then blew my hair out with a diffuser attached to a blow dryer. Never dry it completely, let your hair be at least 10 % damp, this prevents frizzy hair. Then Ayanna applied a pea-sized amount of pomade to my hair. This locked in the style, kept my hair soft and in place.

How does my hair look? Like curly ribbons. It just flows evenly from scalp to ends. The frizz is gone. This Sunday, I walked Sophie the Wonder Dog in the snow, came back into the apartment and still no frizz. It’s shiny and healthy looking. I have soft curly wavy hair that makes me feel like a movie star or a Pre-Raphaelite beauty. I can say good-bye to frizz, to “pyramid head” and hello to sexy, healthy hair!

For curl maintenance, health and a really fantastic cut, run don’t walk to OUIDAD, 37 West 57th Street, fourth floor. Call 212-888-3288 for an appointment. To learn more about the dos and dont’s of curly hair care, pick up Ouidad’s book Curl Talk (Three Rivers Press). To purchase products and to find an Ouidad affiliated salon near you, go to http://www.ouidad.com

Ouidad
The Curl Experts
37 West 57th Street, Fourth Floor
New York, NY 10019
212-888-3288
http://www.ouidad.com

Price List

Haircuts by Ouidad
Men – 100.00
Women – 150.00

Hair cuts by Ayanna, Ana & Vincent
Men – 90.00
Women – 120.00

By Salon Stylists
Men – 90.00
Women – 115.00

Styling
Curly styling – 55.00*
Updo Curly – 100.00*
Wedding style – 200.00

Blow Dry Straight
Short hair (chin) – 60.00*
Shoulder – 75.00*
Long – 90.00*

Treatments
Damage Control – 160.00*
Deep Treatment – 90.00*
Glaze – 85.00*
Summer Shield – 125.00*

Color
One Process – 100.00*
Double Process – 150.00*

Highlights
Hairline – 125.00*
Hairline & Crown – 185.00*
Half of Head – 225.00*
Full Head – 285.00*

Softening (must be sealed by a deep treatment 90.00*)
Spot Softening – 75.00*
Hairline – 100.00*
Half of Head – 150.00*
Full Head – 200.00*

Perms
Spot Perm – 130.00*
Half of Head – 185.00*
Full Head – 260.00*

* – Prices may vary depending on hair length, thickness or other factors to be determined by your Ouidad Stylist

Hair FYI.

- Never bunch up your hair on top of you head when shampooing. It only creates tangles.

- When applying the deep treatment or for that matter, any conditioner, always start with the ends and work your way up. You really don’t need to condition your scalp.

We’re inching closer to Christmas, Yule and Kwanzaa – whether we like it or not. Hanukah is just about over; but there are more holidays on the horizon.

As it gets colder, and the temp starts dropping, the weather gets meaner. The wind, cold air and the weird fluctuating indoor temps and dry air can play havoc with your skin and hair. It’s just as important now to have a good skin care regimen as it is when it’s brutally hot. There are so many products out there, how do you choose?

Korres Natural Products is a line of skin, hair and body products that is infused with goodness. Each product is enriched with active plant extracts. None of the products contain mineral oil, silicones or propylene glycol. Athens’s first homeopathic pharmacy is the root for Korres. The Korres line of products was created in 1996, by a group of young scientists who combined science and nature to create a healthy beneficial skin and hair care line.

Come to Searle this Saturday for a personal consultation with a Korres esthetician. They’ll guide you through the product line and will help you find the perfect regimen to protect your skin and hair this winter. Each customer who spends $50 or more receives a gift from Korres. To find out more about the company, please go to http://www.korres.com

Korres Body & Hair Consultation @ Searle
Saturday, December 18th 1 PM – 6 PM
Searle
635 Madison Ave @ 60th Street
212-750-6183 for reservations

It looks like a lip gloss, goes on like a lip gloss, but covers like a lipstick and lasts all day. What am I talking about? Sisley’s Metal Velvet Collection lip glosses. Just in time for the holidays, these lip glosses give your lips that extra punch you need for the mistletoe with their pearlized metallic shine. And they last! I road tested Pink Gold, wore it all day long, only had to reapply it once, in a period of eight or so hours. Walking outside, my hair did not magically adhere to the lip gloss. I drank two cups of coffee, then checked the gloss – just as shiny and pretty as it was when I put it on earlier in the day. You might think that because it’s metallic looking, it would dry out your lips, not so. The lip glosses contain Palm Oil, this gives your lips a smoother feel and protects against dehydration.

There are three great colors in the collection: Coppery Red, Gold Bronze, and Pink Gold. I’m going back and buying the other colors, the glosses are that great.

You can find the Sisley Metal Velvet Collection at Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and select boutiques nationwide or http://www.saks.com and http://www.neimanmarcus.com.

The Daily Show’s Lewis Black, Jessi Klein and Christian Finnegan of VH1′s Best Week Ever are among the comedians performing a monthly comedy/variety show “The Clip Joint”, at the Knitting Factory, Wednesday, December 15th. Tickets are only $15 and the profits go to Seeds of Peace www.seedsofpeace.org. Show starts at 8:30 PM. More information go to http://www.ballyhoopromotions.net

The Clip Joint @ The Knitting Factory
Wednesday, December 15th
74 Leonard Street
212-219-3132

The Graduate Center is showing FREE movies about Times Square tonight. Square Times, Doing Time in Times Square and Gods of Times Square. It starts at 6:30 PM. To register, send an email to continuinged@gc.cuny.edu Need more info? http://www.gc.cuny.edu

Films @ The Graduate Center
365 5th Avenue
Free 6:30 PM

Last week I mentioned that I had the Nearly Permanent Manicure experience from the Acqua Beauty Bar (7E. 14th Street). I wanted to let you know how the nails are holding up. I am so amazed and thrilled by how they look. I type constantly, attempt to file my junk, and live your basic New York life. Not once have my nails chipped, lifted, snagged or misbehaved. The polish is still as glossy as it was the day it was applied to my digits. And let’s be honest here; you know when you get a French Manicure, the white part can get a tad bit dingy, well not even a hint of ick. They look perfect, absolutely flawless.

When you’re showing off new holiday jewelry, shaking hands, holding gifts or what have you, it’s refreshing to know that your nails look fabulous. With the Nearly Permanent Manicure you don’t need to make a last minute manicure appointment, or try to polish your own nails. Once they’re done, you can actually forget about them. During this hectic season isn’t it nice to know there’s one thing you can forget?

Mary Frances purses, wallets, business card holders, and pill cases aren’t just accessories, they’re works of art.

Her items are beloved by Kate Hudson, Jessica Simpson, Sheryl Crow, Shania Twain and Britney Spears. Mary Frances beat out Cole Haan and Francesco Biasia for the prestigious Accessory Designer of the 2004 award at the Dallas Fashion Awards. Mary Frances accessories are whimsical, beautiful, delicate and fun. Each Mary Frances design is crafted by hand. She has five different lines, each with their own personality. For more information on Mary Frances or to find out where you can purchase Mary Frances accessories, please go to http://www.maryfrancesaccessories.com

Did you know that Salma Hayek is AVON’s new spokeswoman? Not only is she the face of their latest fragrance, “Today, Tomorrow…Always…” but AVON has come out with a limited edition cosmetic collection, “After The Sunset” named after the movie she stars in with Pierce Brosnan. It’s got a glamorous red lipstick with coordinating eye shadows and blush. You can order directly from http://www.avon.com

Have a doggie on your gift list? You can pick up a cute doggie parka, sweater, or outfit at the ChuChu Doggie Wear website. Cadence has created adorable costumes, dresses and outfits for your teacup to medium sized dogs in a very affordable price range. Nothing is higher than $25.00. Visit http://doggyclothes.8m.net to see for yourself.

New York Brands Presents The 5th Annual Rebuild Sample Sale is going on all this week. The sample sale benefits the United Homeless Organization. There will be over 300 DJ performances everyday – Hip Hop, Drum & Bass, Funk & Soul, Freestyle, Classics, 80′s Reggae, House, Trance, Break Beats and Rock will be your musical shopping companion at the event. Brands include; Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, Lithium, Triple Five Soul, Ecko, Ecko Red and Ecko Kids, Miss Sixty, Diesel, Zoo New York, PNB Nation and more up to 85% off retail.
The sample sale is going on until December 24th for you last minute shoppers.

New York Brands Presents The 5th Annual Rebuild Sample Sale
448 Broadway (Between Grand & Howard Streets)
11 AM – 8 Pm daily until 12/24

Feeling festive and don’t want to stay indoors – then check out these options –

13Bar/Lounge is having the last poetry slam of 2004 tonight. There are lots of special guests, including Shaija Patel, a Kenyan – Indian Poet. Look for an open mic and other surprise guests.

Poetry Slam @ 13 Bar/Lounge
35 E. 13th Street, Union Square
$5.00
7 PM
2 for 1 drinks all night
http://www.loderARTS.com

Mickey’s Blue Room is hosting a tree trimming party sponsored by Sierra Nevada. Bring an ornament and you get a free beer. There are giveaways all night long, and happy hour is extended until 10 PM. Hang out, play pool and enjoy the local art that’s on sale. You might pick up a present and meet a new friend.

Micky’s Blue Room
171 Avenue C (between 10th & 11th Streets)
212-375-0723

Do or Die???? Nope, PSNBC presents Mike Albo’s Buy or Die at the Marquee. It’s an off the wall evening of “dramatic readings” hosted by author/actor Mike Albo. Guests include Andrea Rosen, Dave Hill, Nora Burns, and Cary Curran. PSNB is network television’s only performance and development lab. You’ll find underground, funny, up and coming comedians performing here almost every week.

Mike Albo’s Buy or Die@ The Marquee (12/14)
356 Bowery (between Great Jones & E. 4th)
212-664-2957
$5.00, 8 PM

The Luna Lounge is known for showcasing groups that eventually conquer the nation’s airwaves. Tuesday, the 14th, you can catch Pinktricity, The Lost Trick and The King Left. The show kicks off at 7:30 PM. Wednesday, the 15th Holiday and Weird Owl are playing. That show starts at 8:30 PM

The Luna Lounge
171 Ludlow Street
212-260-2323
http://www.lunalounge.com

Lingerie is a great gift; for yourself or for that special someone. I found a shop in Midtown that carries Ferlina, Kenzo, On Gossamer, 68, Fredrick’s of Hollywood and many European brands for 50% to 70% off! Bras are $2.99 – $5.99, panties $1.00, bra sets (great brands – can’t mention) are $5.99 and up. Look for yummy teddies, peignoir sets, baby dolls, gowns, jammies, high heeled marabou trim slippers, and stockings too. So much stuff you’ll need to pace yourself or you’ll just start grabbing things frenetically. The shop is called Sincerely Yours. The sales people are helpful, patient, and very knowledgeable. Unfortunately, they’re going out of business, which is why the prices are so low. Hurry up or you’ll miss it!

Sincerely Yours
212 West 38th Street (between 6th & 7th Avenues)
212-575-2472
Mon- Fri 10 AM – 6PM
Saturday 12Noon – 4PM

The other night I saw The Aviator. The movie is gorgeous to look at, and there were times when I actually forgot that I was looking at Leonardo Di Caprio, and saw an actor standing inside the flesh of another human being. The Aviator tells the tale of Howard Hughes’ early years in Hollywood and his start in aviation. It’s the classic story of an outsider who makes good. Most people are familiar with the myth of an aging recluse with fingernails longer than a football stadium; the younger Hughes was saner than that, and a risk taker. Cate Blanchett is a wonderful sassy Kate Hepburn, Alec Baldwin is deliciously smarmy, and the rest of the cast, including Alan Alda and Kate Beckinsdale giving seamless performances. Look for a cameo by Rufus Wainwright.

The movie dragged a bit at times, and while it was fascinating watching a brilliant mind break down, there was a sense of dislocation, not compassion or sympathy. I have to admit that it was fascinating watching the story unfold of a man who seemingly conquered the world and the sky, despite or maybe because of his illness. Young Howard was plucky, and didn’t understand the word “no.” Did I like it? Yes I did. Was it a good story despite the draggy bits? Definitely. It’s one of the few movies that felt shorter than it was. Would I recommend it to anyone else to see? Yeah I would. Young Howard was like the little train that could. If you take anything away from this movie, take away that if you really and truly believe that you can do anything, you can. Unfortunately, I have very little understanding of OCD and other disorders, so was a bit at sea when he started to breakdown. Luckily, I dragged Diana along with me. She’s in the Mental Health profession, and I think I peppered her with questions for at least a half hour after the movie.

Enough of the movie, do remember a commercial that played (I think when we were kids) of a woman talking about how she was supposed to be proud of her “laugh lines” and there was no way on any planet that she was going to? Okay, maybe it’s just me who remembers it. Anyway, we’re all afraid of wrinkles.

We like the way we look now and aren’t really thrilled with the idea of aging. Dr. Michael Danileov is a scientist from the former Soviet Union. He has an M.D. and a PhD in physiology and biochemistry. He spent years researching the human regulatory mechanisms. He specialized in research in hormones and biologically active substances. Now bear with me, this isn’t a science article, okay? Through his 25 years of research, he came up with a theory that the human body has everything it needs to repair itself, that the cells know how to heal themselves. He immigrated to the US and continued his research, where he began to create biologically active complexes that repaired cells. Soon cosmetic companies came calling; they wanted him to create ingredients for their anti-aging lines. In 1997, Dr. Danielov created his line, Bionova.

Bionova uses nano-technology to create skin care where the bio-active ingredients are delivered to the skin in nano sized (really insanely small) molecules that are absorbed into the skin and healing begins.

The skin care contains non-complexes, these are replicas of bio-active ingredients that all ready exist in the human body. They’re vital for reestablishing cellular communication. The skin care works from the innermost layer out – it reactivates dormant sebaceous glands and restores the cells to their optimal state.

In plain English, it reverses the aging process. I just wanted to explain exactly what it does. It’s really a breakthrough in science and beauty. Your skin heals looks better and bye -bye wrinkles. But there’s more to it than just getting wrinkles to leave you alone. The line can not only prevent premature aging, it can treat and prevent acne and their scars, treat oily and dry skin as well.

There are five Bionova lines. N1 Custom – this is customized skin care – you complete a detailed survey and the Bionova lab creates a formula that works just for your skin and specific treatments that you desire. The order is delivered to you 48 hours after completion of the survey. There’s Impact, that’s customized ready to use skin care solutions. Bio Act 1 – that’s bioactive skin care regimen products. Sport- this is a line of skin care products for athletes and Spa, that’s skin care for spa use.

I’ve been road testing the Bionova Impact eye wrinkle cream for the past week. I am impressed with how quickly it absorbs into my skin. I’m not used to moisturizing my eyelids, you see the treatment comes with a “how to” booklet and I followed it religiously. You place the treatment on your upper and lower lids, on the temples and then relax for five minutes, to let it set. I can’t not move for more than a minute, and I am not a fan of the scent, but I have noticed some baby lines disappearing. I’m now just starting (ugh) to get a few lines and am impressed with how this treatment is working.

You can find Bionova at Barneys, http://www.barneys.com and by visiting Bionova’s website www.bionovalab.com

Talking about getting rid of things – do you have problems saying goodbye to someone? Or are they so dense that no matter how many times you tell them to go away, they’re still there? Try the Break Up Box.

It’s a box that you send to your soon to be ex-sweetie or ex-friend. There are sayings printed on the box, “When we first met I thought all my dreams had come true. Now all I have are nightmares. You’ve been dumped.” OR, “Why don’t the pictures in our scrapbook match the pictures in my mind? Because the heart doesn’t lie. Good-bye.”

This box will definitively tell them to get lost forever! TO find out more about the Break Up Box or purchase one, go to http://www.thebreakupbox.com

This Friday, Satalla is having a free dance party with music around the globe. It kicks off at midnight. This is a very fun way to work out all your stresses of the week.

Satalla
37 West 26th Street (between Broadway & 6th Avenue)
http://www.satalla.com

Catherine Maladrino is having her fall and winter sample sale through the 21st. Friday and Monday’s hours are 9 AM – 7 PM. Saturday and Sunday 11 AM – 4 PM. 275 West 39th Street, Sixth Floor

Catherine Maladrino Fall & Winter Sample Sale
275 West 39th Street, Sixth Floor

Do you really need to know what night of Hanukah this is? Do you really want the countdown until Yule, Christmas or Kwanzaa?? No, I didn’t think so. You’ve all ready had that hammered into your heads and wallets. Below you’ll find ways to relax, revel or whatever. All to a musical or artsy beat.

Tonight DJ Alexander Kass is spinning Minimul (German Techno) at the Loreley Restaurant and Lounge at 10 PM. Saturday night there’s Break Beatz spun by DJ Wilt Chamberlain at 11 PM

Loreley Restaurant & Biergarten
7 Rivington Street (Between Bowery & Chrystie)
212-253-7077
http://www.loreleynyc.com

Luna Lounge in the LES is a great place to see up and coming bands for free. Check out Friday’s show, the first band is on at 8:30 PM; Chancer, Dead Blonde Girlfriend (www.deadblondegirlfriend.com), Second Dan and Ilash hits the stage at 11:30 PM. Saturday’s shows also starts at 8:30 PM. The lineup is as follows: Siwat, Group Sounds (http://www.groupsounds.tv), The Couriers, Stupid (http://www.stupidband.com)

Luna Lounge
171 Ludlow Street
212-260-2323
http://www.lunalounge.com

Catch the artists of The Transelectronic Winter Festival at Tank Saturday night. December 11th. Khonnor (Ed Simons of the Chemical Brothers is a big fan), RJ Valero, Goldmund, Michael Venezia, and Praveen are also on the bill. To learn more about the artists, check out their websites. Khonnor – www.khonnor.com , RJ Valero – http://www.transelectronic.org/, Goldmund – http://acre-c.com/helios/, Praveen – http://www.praveensharma.com/, Michael Venezia – http://www.inloving.net/. Tickets are $7.00; the show starts at 9 PM. The Tank is located at 432 West 42nd Street (between 9th & 10th Avenues).

The Transelectronic Winter Festival @Tank
432 West 42nd Street (between 9th & 10th Avenues)
212- 563-6269
http://www.thetanknyc.org

The Pixies are in town from Saturday, December 11th – 18th. They’re playing at the Hammerstein Ballroom. This is one amazing reunion tour. Every show is sold out. Check www.newyorkcraigslist.org if you want to go, you may be able to score a ticket. I wish you the best of luck! No, I don’t have a ticket either.

Rothko has Memphis and Andrew Kenny performing Saturday night. Memphis is a duo (Torquil Campbell and Chris Dumont), not a solo act. Andrew Kenny is the solo act, got that? Kenny’s got ballads, and Memphis is R&B mixed with electro, think Squarepusher. Check out the band’s website at (http://www.paperbagrecords.com/memphis.html)
Show starts at 10 P; tickets are $8 for the show.

Rothko
116 Suffolk Street
212-475-7088

The Queens Museum of art is hosting the Philippine Christmas Traditions event, Saturday from 2PM – 5 PM, The FAHSI Youth Performing Ensemble and FAHSI will be performing Philippine cultural dances, singing traditional Philippine Christmas sons. And yes, there will be refreshments. This is a free event. For more information or to get directions, please call 718-592-9700 or visit the museum’s website http://www.queensmuseum.org

Saturday you could also check out the new exhibit at the brand new New Museum of Contemporary Art Chelsea. “East Village USA” harkens back to a wilder, less gentrified East Village, way back in the 80′s. The exhibit ends March 19, 2005

New Museum Contemporary Art Chelsea
556 W. 22nd Street @11th Avenue
212-219-1222
http://www.newmusuem.org

Like a capella groups? Go to the Lansky Lounge tonight to check Treble and The Ex-Boyfriends. It starts at 7:30 PM and the $10 cover goes to a good cause; it’s being added to Treble’s recording fund, and you know studio time is expensive! Music is a mix pf rock and pop. Check them out at http://www.treblenyc.com

Treble & The Ex-Boy-Friends @ Lansky Lounge
104 Norfolk Street (between Rivington & Delancey)
212-677-9489

Run over to Bergdorf Goodman Saturday afternoon and you’ll be able to meet Stacey Bendet of Alice + Olivia from 2 PM – 5 PM. She’ll be there to show off the new resort/swim collection. Sip a cocktail, listen to the DJ and order your custom bikini

Bergdorf Goodman
754 Fifth Avenue @ 57th Street
212-753-7300

Something traditional, boisterous, sweet and melodic will tickle your ears Sunday, the 12th when you listen to Metropolitan Klezmer play at the Winter Garden at 3 World Financial Center. They’re playing from 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM. You’ll hear everything from show tunes to Hanukah songs.

Metropolitan Klezmer @ 3 World Financial Center
3 World Financial Center
http://www.worldfinancialcenter.com
200 Vesey Street
212-945-0505

I just got Sophie the Wonderdog a new coat, but I’m still going to check out New York Dog’s sample sale. After all, there’s leashes, dog beds, and other dog accessories on sale. Carriers are starting at $15.00. Friday 8 AM – 8 Pm, Saturday 9 AM – 6 PM and Sunday (the last day) 10AM – 6 PM

New York Dog Sample Sale
133 West 25th Street (between 6th & 7th Avenue)
Suite 8 West
212-486-1331

Mixed Greens Holiday Shopping Event is a nice mix of artists, designers, beauty products, jewelry, home décor, accessories, food, drinks and fun under one roof with no admission charge. Jennifer Leitzes, Kim & Maki, Rena Tom and Kristin McCloud are just some of the labels you’ll see there.

Mixed Greens Holiday Shopping Event
601 West 26th Street (between 11th 7 12th Avenue)
11th floor
212-331-8888

Yo La Tengo has returned to their annual “Eight Days of Hanukah” Show at Maxwell’s in Hoboken, New Jersey. Last year, they opted out and played the Onion’s holiday party. Look for surprise guests – everyone from comedians to singers. The last night is December 14th. Tickets are scarce, but they can be had if you look hard enough. Visit the band’s website at http://www.yolatengo.com/

Yo La Tengo @ Maxwell’s
1039 Washington Street
Hoboken, NJ
201-653-1703