What comes to mind when I think of whiskey? Honestly… ick, bleech, grody!

I always flash back to a low moment at a party in Kentucky, where a friend took a swig of Wild Turkey and yacked it onto the driveway before it ever hit her stomach. Yah, that was a memorable image I thought I’d share with you.

I think of sticky sawdusty barroom floors and shit-kicking cowboys. I know, probably a ridiculously bucolic ideal, but hey, I’m totally inexperienced when it comes to the ways of whiskey; a veritable bourbon virgin. So actually, I’m the perfect candidate to go to a whiskey tasting to sample different firewaters from Scotland to Kentucky. If I can be converted into a believer, anyone can.

So, in polar opposition to my delusions of liquor-slugging cowhands, I’m moseying over to Tavern on the Green for Whiskey Magazine’s “Whisky Live New York” event (www.whiskylive.com) on April 5th, which is apparently Tartan week. At the very least, this should be a different kind of boosey adventure.

And just like at wine tastings, I’m quite sure I’ll swallow, thank you very much

If you’re brave enough (and I know you are) come on down and check it out with me.

Tavern on the Green
Wednesday April 5th 2006
Icons of Scotland : 5.00pm till 6.30pm
Whisky Live : 6.30pm till 10.00pm
Whisky Live After Show Party : 10.00pm till Midnight
www.whiskeylive.com

WE ALL SCREAM FOR BLUE GREEN
By Amber Roniger

“Totally vegan and organic.” Does that bug you out? Just hang on a New York minute, I got some ‘splainin’ to do…

I’m ambling toward the subway all bleary-eyed in the morning, when I spy a dreadie unfolding a chalkboard sign on East 74th. (I swear I just saw a dread-head on the Upper East Side. Right off the bat, I am confused.)

I try to focus on the sign: “Come In and Try Our Raw Ice Cream.”

Do you remember that expression in high school ‘hold the phone?’ Well, Hold the phone!

What in tarnation is this raw ice cream thing? A divine creation sent from heaven to taunt me, a mythical creature of my nightly imaginings? I attempt to shake off these rabid musings and gather my senses. Re-group, concentrate, I command of myself.

I read again: Raw…. Ice…. Cream.

What the…? It must be some tempeh-tofu, spaghetti-squash bunk ice cream poseur monstrosity freak-show surprise; the ghoulish fantasy of an ill begotten Krishna veggie maniac deep in the glucose hole. As a vegetarian for the past 16 years I wonder for the first time, have we gone too far?

I gather my wits and follow the fierce Cheshire hat inside of Blue Green Organic Juice Cafe.

I quickly learn that the hat belongs to Melvin Major, NYC’s royal juice-man, a local juicing legend (who knew?). And since I’m new to the UES, everything here is novel, and I don’t realize this little gumdrop spot has only been in the hood for the past 4 months.

The cosmic forces slide into alignment and it’s time to sample some raw foodie goodies. Instinctively, I dive for the Mint Chocolate Chip and poetry rains down from my lips:

Melt in your mouth
Butter
Freak you out
Oh my God!

(Truth be told, this was written in tribute to a bombastic sushi dinner, but a seamless segue nonetheless.)

The raw ice cream is boldly intoxicating; I’m entranced; a new line of demarcation is drawn in the sand. I sit down and try to pull my spirit back into my body while contemplating the extensive list of unholy ice cream flavors. The main ingredient is, get this… young coconut. Who knew that young coconut could be so creamy-dreamy to a comfort food junkie like myself? Certainly pas moi.

In addition to their interstellar ice cream selection (as if anything else counts), the menu is a miasma of other raw food tasties: blended fruity juices, exotic smoothies, assorted wraps and sandwiches, impressive entrees and of course, the astonishing desserts.

I’m sure all you savvy fembots have at least heard of the raw food lifestyle, some vaguely flickering notion on your cultural horizon; it probably exists out there, somewhere … like in Callie. I pause to consider: did this oasis of raw food nirvana simply rise from nowhere, fully formed on the Upper East Side? Nein! Nyet! In reality, Blue Green is the brainchild of Matthew Kenny, owner of Heirloom and renown raw food chef extraordinaire. The cafe is the perfect little sunny gathering spot for covens of like-minded, healthy-eating NYC’ers (and their wannabe friends). Every precious victual is concocted fresh at The Plant in DUMBO, a radical, one-of-a-kind hybrid cafe-kitchen facility focusing on the preparation of and education about clean and healthy food and drink, newly opened last year.

Virtually everything in Blue Green carries its own label. (They do stock limited holistic oil and beauty products by other manufacturers.) Each scrumptious morsel is crackalackin’ fresh and of course, organic (your first imperative step toward eating raw). They’re also chemical and preservative free, sugarless and non-dairy (so all us lactose intolerant Ashkies can dance the Horah – hooray!).

But if I may get serious for a moment: we urban femininas need to pay more attention to our health. We are up against disturbing (and mounting) odds from the hordes of filthy air and chemicals we ingest. (There are brain-scrambling varieties of chemicals in our food these days.) We need to do more than the average, countrified woman who breathes clean air that isn’t crunchy.

Yah, I already know what you’re thinking: health-schmelth. But let’s face it mis amis, we already know that food and beauty are inextricably linked. We don’t want to be the ones to admit that there’s no actual mystery to our cottage cheese thighs, as we scarf down lumpy-bumpy cottage cheese. Since we are (or our thighs are to become) what we eat, we might as well approach food in a more conscious way.

New York is a great city to be a veggie. It’s also a great place to be a not-veggie, because the vegetarian food is so stupendous that when your bohemian girlfriend (Flower) drags you to some obscure divey restaurant in the East Village, you’ll swear it tastes just like chicken. We have it good like that in NYC.

I’m definitely a novice at eating raw, but I’m a quick study thanks to Blue Green’s knowledgeable staff and cookbooks for sale. And there’s no question that raw food makes me feel lighter. I’m convinced that there’s some nuvo-quantum-Socratic principle at work here.

In the end, I’m not sure whether it was Melvin’s hat or the irresistible lure of creamy-dreamy healthy ice cream (not fake-healthy, i.e. non-dairy, but still loaded with sugar) that enticed me inside Blue Green. But I do know that it irreversibly shifted my perspective on the status and stature of raw food.

I hereby proclaim that the Raw Ice Cream Revolution will be just mind-boggling enough to get even a jaded ole’ foodies’ organic juices flowing.

Blue Green Organic Juice Cafe
203 East 74th Street, NYC
212-744-1460
(& additional locations throughout Manhattan)
www.bluegreenjuice.com

I’m sick of this blasted winter already. I pray every day that it just poof, disappears. Winter’s totally useless, unless I’m shooshing the piste in Davos.

I want to confess that I’ve been feeling a bit rough-hewn lately, a smidge less than Dolly. My muscles are sore. My feet are trounced. I don’t wanna wear thick socks anymore! Old Man Winter, I’m sure you’re a lovely soul, but enough with this schizophrenic peek-a-boo spring! Please spring, just spring already! Bring your greenness, blooming flowers and that dewy jasmine air, I beg of you.

I’m beginning to go a little lu-lu, like spring may never come. My pop-psychological, higher brain tells me that I’m just stuck in the winter blah’s, an ugly feedback loop of bad winter habits and flakey skin. Suddenly, I feel icky. I crave immediate action. I require self medication. I need to be ravished.

I immediately book the Nirvana Package at Praba, my favorite little Indian salon on the Upper, Upper East Side (that no-man’s land between UES proper & Spanish Harlem) muy pronto. I want the nirvana package; I need the nirvana package. Thank God for Praba. Their prices are unbelievable. I’d love to claim that my Kirtan practice first led me there; that I channeled the ghost of Maharaji through my Rudrakshas, but actually, I just stumbled upon it one day.

I’d like to propose that spa’ing is a rite of spring; every tradition in the world celebrates spring-cleaning in some manner (it’s one of the few things we can all agree on). I tend to go in for traditional ayurvedic services in places that have yet to be stampeded by the hoards. I don’t wanna make an appointment two weeks in advance just to get my lip zipped.

I previously experienced my first eyebrow threading at Praba and it was surprisingly painless, despite the horror stories I’d been fed. But this time, I need an entire system overhaul, a true spring cleaning; the works.

GiGi leads me downstairs and submerges my feet in a vibrating tub. As my petunias soak, I drift off to the sounds of Indian chanting, while Bollywood music videos play upstairs. The foot mask (is this an oxymoron?) is akin to wolfing down a whole box of Makes-You-Thin-Mints (my fantasy spin-off on the Girlscout classic)… aah, cooling. I think I was fully in la-la by the time I imagine Naveen Andrews massaging my stompers, but it was just GiGi. And I’m pretty sure I saw Aishwarya Rai scoping the necklaces and purses upstairs, but then again, I could be mistaken.

As for the facial, the massage is downright dreamy. GiGi works me over, pounding out my skin until it is fully liberated of all that winter schmutz.

She finishes me off with a body massage that prompts my hibernating chi back into action.

At some point I plan on trying all the services on the menu, including the turmeric face treatment and the henna tattooing, just for the whimsy of it.

After all that, I feel steam-rolled and cleansed. I bounce out of the salon with glowing skin and a lighter step, and a new kaftan to boot.

PRABA SALON
1734 3rd Avenue at 99th St.
www.indiantreasures.us

Call me crazy, but anyone named “Zorba the Buddha” immediately catches my attention. I know, you’re thinking they must be reviving “Zorba the Greek” on Broadway, starring the Dalai Lama. Au contraire! Zorba the Buddha is the apt nickname belonging to an Indian mystic named Osho. TranceBreath is a spiritual organization offering workshops, classes and events, which incorporate his teachings…namely Osho Active Meditation. They also offer teachings based upon Breath Therapy, Social Meditation, and Tantric Awareness. Their central premise is the integration of meditation into daily life.

Because let’s face it, modern human beings are stressed out creatures, especially us chicas de las cuidades. It’s sad, but we’re just going, going, going all the time and we need help to learn to chill out. In India they have laughter classes. Groups of people gather together, do stretching exercises, meditation and practice laughter.

You might find this bizarre; completely wacko, perhaps? Or maybe there’s some hidden glint of laughter stifled deep down inside of you saying, hey, maybe this isn’t such a crazy idea. I mean, really think about it, when was the last time you had a full-bellied, no holds barred gaffaw (not at someone else’s expense, but because you felt deeply joyful)? I know…I can’t remember either.

So come out and experience something new this Friday evening, March 31st at 7pm, at Yoga Mandali, 560 Broadway (at Prince St.), Suite 406. You can get more information on TranceBreath, Osho and their plethora of eclectic events by checking out their website at: www.trancebreath.com. And come and see for yourself exactly what the hey is the intersection of dance, laughter and meditation. You know I’ll be there with rings on my fingers and bells on my shoes.

We love custom anything. We love anything jewelry. Of course we are ga-ga for custom jewelry! Femmegems is the place to find gorgeous bead strands from jade to turquoise, quartz to chalcedony…and mix and match them to fit your personal style. You decide whether your new baubles are opera length or choker. You choose accent beads and clasps. They make the piece right there, while you wait; then you’re off with a one-of-a-kind, or a ‘look-alike’ that resembles that great piece you saw Kate Winslet wearing on a recent InStyle cover. Whatever your choice, if you haven’t visited Femmegems, you haven’t lived! They have locations at Henri Bendel’s (712 5th Avenue) and in NoLita at 280 Mulberry St.

Unleash your inner jewelry designer, or indulge in some of their signature pieces. They even do private jewelry parties, so you can showcase your design talents in front of your friends. To book a party call 212.625.1611

If you decide to hit the NoLita location of Femmegems and you’re in the market for creative bridal, stop by VeKa. Bridal couture. Fashion forward is the atmosphere and individuality is the inspiration. Femininity run riot in gorgeous gowns that will set you apart from the typical meringue on your special day. The small and friendly staff is there to assist you in making a selection that best represents your personal style. After all, we can’t all expect to channel Audrey Hephburn on our wedding day. While we love Audrey, it’s your day and you’re the only star your guests are showing up to see.

For Appointments, call 212.925.9044 or email info@vekabridal.com or visit www.vekabridal.com.

Heads up…March is their accessories sale month. Stop in for 50-75% off headpieces, veils, hairpins and…bride or not…TIARAS! Who doesn’t love wearing a tiara?

Swiss Miss
By Tallulah Dumonde

Forget hightailing it up the side of the Alps, girls. The Swiss Masai company offers Masai Barefoot Technology (mBT). Your very own stairmaster inside a pair of shoes. You’ve heard of the anti-cellulite sneakers, no doubt. If you haven’t tried a pair, you’re missing something amazing.

First of all, they come in sneakers, sandals and high-top boot styles…so none of that “sneakers don’t go with this” crap. When I got mine, I strapped them on and was immediately impressed with how comfortable they were. They feel a bit like a platform shoe within a sneaker, but who minds being another inch and a half taller? Not me.

Instantaneously I could feel my posture change. As advised, I practiced walking in them around my apartment, making sure I would avoid any surprises that would land me face-first on a Manhattan sidewalk. What impressed me was how natural it felt to be wearing them, so I headed out. I spent the better part of a Saturday in the shoes, not knowing if they were doing anything special or whether I was just on some sort of high (being taller than usual and wearing expensive footwear can sometimes give a girl a burst of energy).

The next morning I got my answer. The back of my calves felt taught and slightly tender, as if I’d been doing calf raises, and the rest of my backside followed suit. The shoes were definitely having an effect. Over the next few weeks I wore the shoes intermittently. One of the best things that has come out of having them (I think it’ll take a bit more time to notice any reduction in cellulite) is that my posture is much different when wearing the shoes and that carries over, little by little, to how I walk without them…or when wearing other shoes.

The design of the shoe is intended to utilize muscles that form your posture, while also increasing shock absorption on joints and discs (not as glam as anti-cellulite, but way more important to your long term health). The back and joints are strengthened and circulation is increased (this is the part that helps reduce the appearance of cellulite AND varicose veins).

Be good to your lower half and get yourself a pair of mBTs. You’ll be glad you did, and your legs will be singing their own “Yodel-leh-hee-hoooooooo”!

Available at www.swissmasaius.com or at any Bliss location.

Hear ye, hear ye – March 21st is the first day of “HALLELUJA THIS CRAP SEASON CALLED WINTER IS OVER!” Apologies to all of y’all who like/love winter, but this here little gal isn’t one of those peeps. I live for those days when you’re like, “oh my … I don’t need…a…jacket??? HOORAY!” The problem is, my look – my make-up, my skin care … it’s sooooo winter of 2005. Boooo, lame….I need to freshen up! I need a new look! I need to be asleep and wake up in the spring of 2006!

Oh, thank you beauty marathon for coming to my rescue. What is a beauty marathon? Marathon’s, in general, I think can be daunting – at least sound daunting. They tend to last for a long time, and by the end we’re usually like, “oh, please make the marathon stop.” But not here and not now. From 7am – 7pm on Monday, March 20th, Q-Tips is sponsoring a Beauty Marathon in Grand Central Station. Women can book appointments in advance or just pop by and get a quick lesson on how to update their look for spring. Things we like about this: work-friendly hours, quick, updates, FREE five minute make-over, raising money for a good cause.

Oh, I haven’t gotten to that awesome part yet? Even though you can get yourself a quickie five minute make-over, the event is intended to raise proceeds to help support Step Up Women’s Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening community resources for women and girls, focusing on women’s health, domestic violence and mentoring. Uh, hi. Awesome. Thanks. Necessary.

Who else will be on hand other than you and every other intelligent, smart, “I wanna look hot” lady in town? Jennifer Berry, the recently crowned Miss America 2006, and celebrity make-up artists Molly Roncal, Fabiola Arancibia, and Carmindy (from TLC’s What Not to Wear). So, when these three make-up geniuses say, “what are you thinking in terms of your look for Spring?” you can just point at Jennifer Berry. Easy Peasy, one, two, three.

You can book appointments at 1-800-847-7411, or just stop by on the 20th. The marathon will be held in the Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central, 87 East 42nd Street (at Park Ave.).

Even though this marathon isn’t 26 miles, I kinda wish it was!

Drink it up!

Oh, Danny Boy, it’s time for the St. Patty’s Day Parade! It’s that CARAZEE time of year again when Irish pride is abound, green beer is a flowin’, and being drunk is just as acceptable as being tired or stressed – some live for it, some dread it (well, they dread the day after), and everyone waits with bated breath for the PARADE!

This year, of course, is no exception. I know it’s a big pain in the arse (especially if you’re trying to get somewhere, anywhere, within ten miles of the parade path), but…in the end…it’s all one big ball of fun.

This year, the parade will start at 11am at 44th and 5th. It’ll head up 5th to 86th and then crossover to 3rd.

The parade has been a New York City tradition since 1766. Yeah, you heard me, 1766. That was the year of the Stamp Act Riots, if I’m not mistaken. I’m even including a map of what NY looked like in 1766. Why? To solidify the idea that this parade has been around for an INSANELY LONG TIME. That’s 240 of celebration, debauchery, and green beer. Ok, maybe not green beer, but…definitely the other two. I’d imagine. I mean, I don’t really know for sure, but I bet it was fun like it is now. Back then. Oh, you get my point.

http://www.saintpatricksdayparade.com

This just in: I’ve just gotten word that www.Kiehls.com is extending an offer of free shipping on purchases over $30. Enter the code MARCH upon checkout. This is only going thru March 20th, so…stop procrastinating by doing your work and start online shopping!

Um, can I first just say that I absolutely LOVE using cheesy cat cliche when referring to or writing about our loveable feline friends? I mean, everyone does it or has done it at least once, and…it never gets old. Oh, the humor in conformity!

You may have guessed that one of the three delectable treats I have for you today involves putty-tats. If you did…you guessed wrong, peepie deeps! Well, not 100% wrong, but wrong enough to allow me to be able to tell you it was wrong. Ever heard of a company called Cat Studio? Well, I have and thought it was fantastic enough to share it with you.

Cat Studio produces hand-embroidered geography pillows that are so fantastic they make me want to drool … like a cat … oh, wait…Now you say, “Erika, what’s a geography pillow?” Fabulous question, reader, and thank you for asking.

The Cat Studio folks have a select number of countries, regions, states, cities, and parks that they hand embroider on to square pillows. These aren’t small pillows either, these are snuggle up and get comfy on the couch sized square pillows. I don’t know about you, but…these pillows make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside while allowing us to show our pride or braggadocio about a particular locale. Such examples would be:

“I’m a born and raised Angeleno, so I totally have to have the Los Angeles pillow.” “Well, I was born and raised in Hollywood, so I totally need to have the Hollywood pillow.” “Well, I’m better than both of you because I was born and raised in New York, so I need to have the New York pillow…”

This is the part where all of the Angeleno’s start kicking and screaming, and the New Yorker’s start “wha? Oh, yous gots a problem” “…oh, wait, I’m sorry. These pillows are not supposed to ignite bicoastal warfare. Let’s all party like it’s 1999, and get pillows for every which place we love and hold dear. I mean, guys, even Canada’s got a pillow – you know it’s a party when our neighbor’s to the North are invited.

Ladies and gents, this only gets better. Cat Studio also makes their geography designs on glasses and dishtowels. Nothing beats a set of hometown pride kitchen glasses and dishtowels. Can I get a hells yeah for 818! STOP THE SNICKERING.

www.catstudio.com

El topico numero two is a quick little something something that I just KNOW you’ll all LOVE, so I’m going to throw it in. Tia Williams, former editor at Glamour, Lucky, and Elle to name a few, is going to be co-hosting a new radio show on Sirius Radio that launches today. The show is on CosmoRadio (as in Cosmopolitan, gals), and it’s going to be FABOO. She and her co-host, Taylor Strecker, are going to be gabbing about beauty, love, relationships and men. Everything and anything under the Cosmo sun. Check it out, I know you’ll enjoy it.

http://www.sirius.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Sirius/Page&c=Channel&cid=1138308146011

Now on to a more serious topic. Not to be repetitive or anything, but…I love wine. I love it, I love it, I love it. I know, I know, BORING, stop being captain obvious protector of the known by telling you, my readers that I love wine.

Well, this time it has a purpose my friends. Because, guess what else I love? Fun segues, that’s right. Ever heard of a little teeny weeny non-profit called Make-A-Wish Foundation? Yeah, thought so. But, in case you’ve been living in a black hole, voided from all contact with the outside human world, Make-A-Wish Foundation helps make the dreams of children who have life threatening illnesses dreams come true. It’s a beautiful organization that every single person should pay attention to – I’m sorry for ending on the preposition, but it had to be done.

What you might not have known is that each region has its own Make-A-Wish chapter …which would make ours the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Metro New York. Well, they are having a spectacular fundraiser on Wednesday, March 15th that involves…oh here it comes, kids…WINE! See, I leave no loose ends party peoples…I like to keep it all together in a comprehensive ball of fab.

The event is called Wine & Wishes and is being hosted by CD101.9 FM and The Charmer Sunbelt Group. It’s not easy playing host at a party, but they’re going to do it perfectly and graciously I know it. Wine & Wishes is the third annual wine tasting event and auction to raise money for, you guessed it, the Make-A-Wish foundation. Just to give you a clue of how important this event is, the event raised over $500,000 in its first two years, which was enough to fund the unique experiences for 71 children. That’s an average of $7,000 per wish. And although that money did go to help a lot of children, a lot more children need it to, which is why the event is coming back for its third year.

Attendees at the event will get to sample from hundreds of delicioso vinos including gems from Palmer Vineyards (a personal and biased favorite…not because of relation, because I love the name), Boisset (creator of the French Rabbit I wrote about not too long ago), and Foster’s (who make two of my personal faves, Penfolds and Rosemount…mmmmm…..).

So, how much does the event cost? Well, no matter what, the dolares are going toward a good cause. If you want to be a big time sponsor, minimum sponsorship starts at $500 and goes to $20,000…of course these sponsorships come with lots of fun bells and whistles, not to mention a good portion of the cost is tax deductible. If you’re looking to just attend the event and not be a sponsor, tickets are $150 through the end of today, and then $200 at the door tomorrow.

Email or call Amy Epstein for more information about sponsorships or for tickets. She’s fabulous, and very very helpful.

Come out, get a little boozy, and help support an AMAZING cause and organization. Everybody wins here, kids, everybody wins…

Amy Epstein: 212-849-6993. aepstein@metrony.wish.org.

www.metrony.wish.org

This just in: I’ve just gotten word that www.Kiehls.com is extending an offer of free shipping on purchases over $30. Enter the code MARCH upon checkout. This is only going thru March 20th, so…stop procrastinating by doing your work and start online shopping!

If the savants predict that Fall’s wardrobe be edgy, luxurious and dark with large doses of color, the consensus for makeup is that it be dewy or frosty. Models’ faces were au naturel. Lips were draped with gloss and lipstick in shades of rose and cinnamon. The hairstyles on the runway were varied, ranging from 50′s-inspired ponytails to hair extensions that resembled bows or butterflies.

For Kai Kuhne’s show, Myself, the hair was done in sleek, chic ponytails. Katherine Kalessis, a makeup artist for Sebastian Professional products says, “The look for Kai Kuhne is very subtle. The face is moist, and products are applied with the brush or by hand. We also envision the return of the sheer lip.” Models wore colors from Trucco, including Berry Bazaar, Violet Vogue, Mulberry Muse and Plum Pop.

The hairstylists used the Evokativ line of products by Sebastian Professional, which contain microfine oils for softness, and provides a texture that is not crunchy. Some of the products used on the models were “Lustfull” which is a hair figure-shaper, and “Disobedient” which is a green clay-based matte paste.

For Rachel Comey’s show that transported the audience to the farmlands, the makeup artists envision a very clear look, with blush on cheeks to achieve a windburned effect. This fresh palette was used for both men and women models who sported half-matte lips mostly adorned in pinky beige.

For Alexander Herchcovitch’s show, the hair was done into chic buns and tied with a scarf to complement the idea of clothes with “rebellious luxury” using “Disobedient” messy matte paste by Sebastian.

For his “Uptown Chic” fashion show, Zang Toi hired hairstylist Eiji Yamame, who achieved a rococo hairdo incorporating several bows (using hair pieces and hair extensions) to complement the ornate Parisian chic look of the clothes. Yamame used Nigelle Blowmake Essence, a moisturizing cream for the hair, and products from the Nigelle Wave collection (including a wax), and Genic hair softner from Japan.

“The hair colors and extensions had to match” says Eiji. “So we had to get the precise color of the model’s hair in advance. The whole hairdo took about twenty minutes per model. The inspiration was the clothes: the young, trendy uptown chic girl wearing bowties on the dress, which became bowties for the hair.”

“The girls were to have minimal makeup” says Troy Surratt, the Global Consulting Makeup Artist for Maybelline New York. “We created an ethereal, angelic look with cool, frosty colors on her face, and some highlight on her cheekbones, with crystal clear eye shadow and a nude glow lip color from Maybelline. We wanted the model to look like a Madison Avenue angel.” The makeup crew also used a bit of Greatlash Clear under the models’ brows, and the skin was prepped with foundation.

Bobbi Brown, who did the makeup for Charles Nolan, says, “We’re doing a lot of chocolate colors for the face, with a little bit of shimmer and smudgy strong matte. With the chocolate we’re doing a softer prettier lip because bright red lips don’t look good with the strong eye. Definitely use pinks, corals and lighter colors for the Fall, or a peachy check. Lipstick and gloss (using both together) are great. We are using different colors for lips, eyes and cheeks…à‚stronger smokier eyes with lighter lips.” Using a sepia gel liner underneath the eyes intensifies the smoky look.

For DDCLabs’ show Into the Stratosphere, the makeup artists envisioned a skin texture that was not completely shiny but pure with touches of shimmer. Lips were bright with color, and the eyes were dark and smoky colors. The makeup artists used silver eye shadow with black eyeliner from M.A.C. in colors like Night Divine and Smolder. Lips sported glossy colors like honey beige. The skin was prepped with foundation.

John Ruidant, an independent hairstylist, did the hair for DDCLabs and says that the braids were inspired by look for innocence and rock n’roll. “The models need to look as though the hair’s been worn in for a few days and they’ve been out and about.” Fall is definitely a season of the perfectly imperfect hairdo.

Strands for the Season: Fashion Week’s Fabulous Hairstyles
By Stefanie Schwalb

Autumn is upon us, at least in the wondrous world of high fashion that is. And this year during the week of what’s hot to wear for Fall/Winter 2006, Beauty News decided to strike a pose and hit a few shows to check out the styles and strands of what’s to come for the season. Good things come in three’s, so this special report on hairstyles that rocked the runway will feature Pantene and Alice Roi, Rusk and various designers, and Redken with Cynthia Rowley. So sit back, relax and enjoy the rundown, cause here comes what’s cool from the catwalk.

First up was the Alice Roi show, which was held at Atelier in Bryant Park on Saturday February 4 at 1PM. This 30-year- old designer has been on the fashion fast track since starting her line in 1999. She’s a favorite of celebs such as Julianne Moore and Chloe Sevigny, and her design sense is very chic and well-suited to New York women who want the sophisticated yet flirty look of a line that offers feminine details set against a firm, strong color schemes of black, cràƒÂªme, greys and browns. To complement the ensembles, the models’ makeup was downplayed to dramatic dark lips and the hair was simple and subdued.

Pantene celebrity stylist Fernando Torrent, whose work has appeared in Vogue, Allure and Harper’s Bazaar, has worked with Hollywood A-listers such as Hilary Swank, Katie Holmes and Kyra Sedwick and famous fashion photographers like Steven Klein and David Lachapelle. To complement Alice’s collection, Fernando created hair styles that were strong yet still feminine, by pulling the strands back to expose the face and cheek bones. “It creates a strong visual” says Fernando, “but the texture kept it romantic, soft, and whimsical.” Speaking of texture, that’s what he anticipates hairstyle trends to be for the season. “Texture is key for the hair looks” reveals Fernando. “The trend will be touchable texture, and hair looks will be more graphic. I think we will see more hair swept away, exposing the face and cheekbones.”

To create such a look off the runway and on your own, Fernando suggests the following: “I love using the Pantene Pro-V in control-shaping mousse because it helps to give hair texture and hold. Scrunch the mousse in your hair using your fingers only because this look doesn’t need a comb or brush. Then twist the hair into a low, loose bun, allowing a few hair tendrils to frame the face. Secure the bun with simple bobby pins and finish and set with the Pantene Pro-V classic hairspray flexible hold aerosol.”

“The look I created today is incredibly easy to create at-home” adds Fernando, “which is why I love it. It’s a very effortless-looking style, but at the same time it looks stylish, and all you have to do is just apply mousse to damp hair. By creating one consistent look for the show, I think it was a beautiful compliment to Alice’s collection. It was romantic and strong, but at the same time touchable and looked effortless. Very much like Alice’s design style.”

Next up was the Rusk Hair & Fashion Show, which was held at The Venue located in the Metropolitan Pavilion on Monday February 6 at 8PM. This show was a big one for hair, literally. I think it has inspired me to start attending hair shows in general because the creations and the excited buzz of the audience in this room was so inspiring. Plus, The Venue space at the Met Pavilion is so big that anywhere you sit is a good angle. On with the show. Sandra Yu, artistic director for Rusk, created so many fabulous ‘dos that were reminiscent of the eighties (a favorite decade of mine) including some punk rock short and sweet styles, side ponytails with pompadour-type tops, geometric gems, and fabulous frizz with some fun brightly hued pieces added in for effect. The makeup, produced by Mark Edio and the Shu Uemura team, was equally full cool color with accents on the eyes and cheeks.

From “Subway to Runway” as the show was called, showcased some innovative styling that synched up perfectly with the assorted American and European designers whose outfits were featured. The designer list included for women: YSL, B. Michael, Gaultier, Bill Blass and Zam Barrett; for men, Ferre, D&G, and Versace. The mix of couture collections made the range of hair creations really crucial, and in creating these looks Sandra Yu gave us some insight into her inspiration. “Knowing the sophistication of Bill Blass or YSL, for example, the hair was designed with a timeless, elegant sensuality in mind. Looks that are flirty, subtle, and sophisticated can empower the sense of femininity” she says. And seeing designers’ upcoming styles often helps dictate what hairstyles trends will be. Sandra take on trends includes a more structured look with fluid, natural movement. “It’s about taking the inspiration from classic and blending it with modern to create an individual look for each person” she says. “For example, creating an updated French twist with softness or a quick ponytail updo with natural movement.” To create such styles off the runway, Sandra says that the looks can be easily duplicated with the right products and appliances. “To create softness, the use of the Rusk Mousse and the Rusk curling iron is recommended. The mousse creates body and volume when the curling can create animation.”

And this show was definitely animated! With the various styles displayed, the most daunting task was just bringing it all together. “The most difficult obstacle to overcome in preparing for the event was tying in hair with fashion under one roof in four different themes and making everyone look individual. There is not one hairstyle that looks the same.” she says. “Of course, there was also the nervousness of knowing that this was the first hair and fashion event taking place on Fashion Week.”

So out of all these creations, what was Sandra’s favorite? “There are many. I love the whole collection of the edgy/avante garde opening. The show began with structured geometric-shape hair with dark monochromatic color” she says. “But I guess my favorite would be the finale, the bride. It’s the rebirth of the dual of modern and classic. I wanted to create a look for the bride that is untraditional yet glamorous, beautiful, and young. It’s the Millennium Bride.”

And that bride will have a few more runways to walk down since after the smashing debut at Fashion Week, Rusk is taking this show on the road with a 20-country tour. Definitely catch it if you can.

Last but certainly not least, we have Redken and Cynthia Rowley (one of my all-time favorite designers), which took place at the Atelier in Bryant Park on Friday February 10 at 12PM. Now this show was packed and with good reason. Although it was difficult to see at some points, one thing you couldn’t miss was hearing the music for this event, which was made up of current pop songs sung by a Harlem boys choir. Wow. Very cool. As always, Cynthia’s styles were playful and colorful and fabulously feminine. All very well-suited to the chic yet bold New York woman.

To make sure the hair matched the ensembles, Redken stylist Thomas Hintemeier created styles which showcased “a slick simplicity from the front” he says, “and changed in the back to a controlled but wild texture of waves because the style had to have a good balance between being chic and raw at the same time.” Seeing what Cynthia had in store for fall and winter had a big impact on what hairstyle trends Thomas believes will take hold. “Through the chic and shiny fabrics in her collection with all the shades of blue/lilac and a lot of beautiful details, the hair trend will have a sensitive balance between simplicity, chicness, and unfinished rawness.”

All of which are attributes that can easily be translated off the runway and into everyday life. “One example is a very dry hair texture” says Thomas, “which is easy to create with hairspray. Apply it to clean, dry hair and brush it out; repeat this process a couple of times and you will get a lot of volume. After that, you just bend each side one time over a big curling iron. With this technique you get a very smooth wave in the hair with a dry texture and a lot of volume.”

And speaking of volume, one of Thomas’ favorite styles he created was big look designed out of frizzy texture with straight pieces placed in between after the whole head is frizzed up. “We shaped it with hairspray. For the show, we made each look individual according to the dress and personality of the girl. With fantastic hairdressers helping you, the actual event of the show is very simple. The difficult part is more to create the look that works best for the clothes and the designer.” In this case, I think we can call the collaboration a big strand success.

We hope you enjoyed this report from the runway. Let us know what you think and we’ll be sure to file some even bigger spotlights for the Spring and Summer collections taking place here in the fall.

There’s lots going on today, peeps, so listen up …I’ve got some fun news about events, and one terrifico website I stumbled upon just a few days ago. Hooray for new internet shops we can go to and kill time while at work!

Since all my bits and pieces are awesome, I don’t know where to start…eenie, meenie, miney, mo…I smell an executive decision to start with the website upon which I stumbled, like, last week. Website, oh website, make me a match (instead of all those awful mismatched outfits I’ve got going on right now)…in need like me. Check out Standard Style (www.standardstyle.com) and let me know what you think. Actually, don’t because I’m guessing you’ll think it’s as awesome as I do, and then we’ll all be saying the same things back and forth all day long, clogging each other’s inboxes, and it’ll turn into a big clusterf(&#.

Here’s what I love about this boutique…it started as an actual, in the flesh boutique in Leawood, KS by a couple who had just moved back to the mid-west from California. Let’s just give a mad props to Matt & Emily Baldwin for…I don’t know, opening a rad boutique in Leawood, KS! The site, and the store, carry all of your standard faves like Citizens, Ella Moss, Generra, James Perse, etc. There are also some fresh surprises I haven’t seen at other online boutiques like Grail, Fornarina, Project E, Lily McNeal and a ton of others who perpetually deck themselves out in…well, themselves, probably.

Here’s what else I love about this boutique…not only do they carry women’s yays and hoorays, they carry men’s, baby, miscellaneous gifts, and…maternity. How fantastique is that? I mean, we’re talking sexy dresses, Chip & Pepper jeans, and hot outfits that…to be honest, I would like to see if they have in sizes for “first trimester” because they’re that adorable. On a side note, I’m just figuring that as a non-pregnant person, an outfit sized for first trimester would work – this is not actual sizing, so if you follow my lead, don’t blame me if it doesn’t work out.

Anyway, I dig this site, I dig its vibe, its look, and its stock. I’m going to dig it even more when it’s time for les soldes!

www.standarstyle.com

On to my next piece of hooah for Thursday. Are you a New York girl? I know, stupid rhetorical question. Are you a beautiful and stylish New York girl? Ah ha, see I got you. Look, I know we’re all gorgina in our own way (I, personally, am not gorgina in one of those I could be pretty for a living type things, but I take what I can get) – which is why I know first-hand that sometimes we could all use some sprucing up. Enter stage left the New York Girls Beauty & Style Event to introduce you, stylish New York ladies, to spring’s color collections. Since we are about to exit the doldrums of bleak winter, why not have a fresh look to go along with that “oh thank god it’s over” expression written all over our faces?

The event will be held at Diva SoHo on March 23rd. I hear Diva and SoHo, and I’m like, peoples, I’m there. Ladies attending the event will receive exclusive expert advice on how to make everyone think you’ve been tanning in St. Tropez all winter…uh, I mean, how to look your best for spring. But, but, who’s giving all of this expert advice? Um, hi, experts, ladies, experts.

Specifics? OK! How about the top make-up artist from Playboy Beauty, who not only will dole out deep, dark secrets but will also be performing mini make-overs throughout the night. And, I mean, who doesn’t look fresh and sassy with that bunny lingering about so…hoppingly. Dr. Sharon Giese will also be on-hand to answer your questions about cosmetic enhacements…she and her staff were recently featured in New Beauty Magazine…we like people who have been featured in magazines, don’t we? Yes, yes we do.

Now, would you believe me if I told you I hadn’t even gotten to the perks of the event yet? I know, it’s too good to be true…there were be complimentary cocktails from 7pm-8pm…no, not like a dirty martini to a dry martini…complimentary like…drink all you want, and we’ll pick up the bill. There is also going to be a giveaway…with prizes…really, really awesome prizes like a three night stay at the Hotel Tudor in Miami. We like giveaways to hotels in Miami.

Oh, and…the event is sponsored by us…us as in BeautyNews. So, you know if we endorse something, it’s gotta be … hoorawonderful.

RSVP to (212) 567-4034 or to crodehau@yahoo.com
Diva SoHo: 341 West Broadway
March 23rd, 7pm-10pm

And…one more piece of goodness…

We all know that there are a TON of art shows going on this weekend. I thought I’d do a tres petite run-down, throw you some links, and say “hooray for art in Manhattan!”

The Armory Show: March 10-March 13
www.thearmoryshow.com

Scope New York: March 10-March 13
www.scope-art.com

…and one that isn’t an art show, but I think it’s fascinating and hilarious all at once…

The 9th Annual Memory Championship: March 11th (watch a bunch of people try to remember things…impressive, when I can’t remember what I ate for lunch)
www.usamemorychampionship.com

So, as I’ve reminded you all constantly, Sunday, March 12, is my birthday. It totally doesn’t matter how old I am – it only matters that it is the day I was born and it is finally getting the recognition it deserves. So what if that recognition is because the Sopranos are premiering – I’ll take what I can get.

So, if you care at all, you’re probably wondering what dear young me will be doing to celebrate. Well, I’ve come up with a bunch of things I’m going to be doing, some I’ve told y’all about already and some new things – they’re all tres faboo though, so…shut up and listen because it’s the week to say “hoorah! Erika was born!”

So, Friday night I’m thinking that I’m going to cook a nice, healthy dinner in my teeny, tiny cramped apartment for my hubby and some friends. Yes, I do buy groceries on occasion at Whole Foods, but…so does everyone else, and it makes for a terrifying experience, especially in grocery rush hour. I say “F-that” and I go to the Garden of Eden on 23rd St. Think UNBELIEVABLE fresh, delish produce and products in a boutique market environment. It’s like the Intermix of supermarkets. Of course I’m waiting with bated breath for Trader Joes (www.traderjoes.com) to open in Union Square – $2 buck Chuck is my life – but then, I’ll be so torn between that and Garden of Eden! OH THE PAIN AND INHUMANITY!

So, Saturday, I’m going to drag the hubby to Top of the Rock (www.topoftherocknyc.com). I haven’t had a chance to get up there yet, and I figured, what better time to be at the top of the world than when you’re celebrating your…oh, see, you almost got me to tell you how old I am…sneaky you… Oops, forgot to tell you that before Top of the Rock, we’re going to do a little brunchy poo at ‘Ino, my FAVORITE wine and panini joint. It’s on Bedford at Downing in the depths of the West Village – super small joint, with some of the best food you’ll ever have. And…it’s cheap! Gasp. It’s sheer perfection.

I also feel like doing a little shop, shop shopping on this grand day. Since I’m downtown, I might go and see what’s on tap at Biche de Bere (www.bdbsoho.com). Her stuff tends to be on the eccentric side, but let me tell you – I found one of the most FABULOUS tops there, and if I actually got more compliments on it, I’d have to start paying people for them. Eccentric, peut-etre, but absolutely unique. The top I have is black on black print, and the print is a mélange of subway stops from around the world. I always love seeing what she’s got maintenant.

So, a little strolling here and there, and voila, it’s time for dinner. We’re going to go to Matsu (www.sushibymatsu.com), my new FAVORITE sushi restaurant on the UES. Actually, it’s my new favorite sushi restaurant anywhere. It’s super duper small, but worth every minute that you may need to wait. The fish is the freshest I’ve had anywhere in the city, and I’ve had my share of sushi, let me tell you. Gary, el chef de sushi, is a pure genius and turns this into an art form – you must get the Chef Special anything, and he’ll whip you up something, just for you, according to whatever whim he’s feeling. Oh, and it won’t break the bank either. If you’re not impressed, I’ll do the hokey pokey and turn myself around into the depths of confusion.

Saturday is finit, which brings us to…SUNDAY! MY BIRTHDAY! YAY! Brunch we’re going to head over to Bin 71, the best petit treasure on the UWS. What’s even more of a little treasure if their brunch – salmon/tomatoes on crostini, frittatas, nutella on crostini – um, can we say “yum?” Oh, and … since people don’t think to go there for brunch, it’s usually quiet and getting a seat isn’t a problem.

Puis, we’re going to go over to Our Name Is Mud (www.ournameismud.com) – it’s kind of a bummer that we can’t paint our own pottery anymore…IN GENERAL, but you can still do it at their Amsterdam location! Whether you DIY it, or buy their pre-made stuff, I absolutely LOVE their designs, and I’m telling you, I can always find room to fit one of these things in my house. Right now I have my eyes set on their Irish ring holder (even though I don’t have an Irish bone in my body). I’m also a HUGE HUGE HUGE fan of their New York cookie jar – check it out, it’s HILARIOUS and sooooo me.

I think I’m also going to drag the hubby to MOMA (www.moma.org) – he’s not big on modern art, but…we’ve not seen the new building yet, and they have two exhibits going on right now that I’m DYING to see – One is Edward Munch, and the other is called “Without Boundary: Seventeen Ways of Seeing.” The exhibit focuses on artists living in the US of Islamic origin, and focuses on emphasizing diversity while also questioning origin in relation to the artists’ work. Totally interesting, and totally need to see it.

For din din on the big day we are going to go to my all time favorite restaurant in Manhattan called Celeste on the UWS. Northern Italian Cuisine is what you’ll eat, and Carmine (pronounced Carminay) will WOW you with what he’s done with this local favorite. Carmine is the owner, in case you were wondering. There are new specials every night, and…I have had literally everything on the menu, and have not once been disappointed. The almond crusted chicken is stupendous, the steak is perfection, the pastas will make you not even care about carbs – oh, and…the cheese…there are no words in the English language to explain the level of “I LOVE THIS” that we’re dealing with when talking about the cheese. Makes me want to sigh just thinking about it…

So, if you decide to pop by any of these places, you’ll see me and maybe even some of my posse – yeah, I roll like that…

Garden of Eden: 162 W. 23rd (btwn 6th and 7th)
‘Ino: 21 Bedford St. (212) 989-5769
Bin 71: 237 Columbus Ave. (212) 362-5446
Celeste: 502 Amsterdam Ave. (212) 362-5446