Monday, March 28, 2011

Long Weekend at Mom's

Vero Moda Top
Isolde Jacket
Fornarina Jeans
White All Stars
H&M Rings/ Chains

Friday, March 25, 2011

Bells and Whistles.

A mini headpiece I recently made for my friend Judit who was just married in Flordia to her husband Jeff. A truly stunning bride! It was a fun custom project and I was so happy to be able to contribute something unique for her special day.

Photos are by the talented Abi and Mark Litwa at Tea for Two Photograpy. Beautiful work!

-G

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Trish McEvoy Says Hello to Spring with Love



Here's a collection sure to pull at your heartstrings, if for no other reason then because it sounds so completely divine.  Trish McEvoy's new limited edition Love Fragrance Collection is sure to leave a touch of sweetness in the air, on your skin, and yes, even on your lips!

Love will envelop you in the delicate fragrance of No. 9 Blackberry & Vanilla Musk Eau de Parfum and Super Enriched Body Cream while the Wild Blueberry Vanilla Candle burns gently to soothe your soul. My senses are already desperate to experience these pieces. Add to that the Seduction Flawless Lip Color as the finishing touch of beauty and elegance to complete a romantic aura leaving those who adorn completely irresistible. Sweet, sensual, and undeniably one of the most loving collections of beauty a woman can get her hands on this spring, the Love Fragrance Collection is a the perfect assortment of pleasure. Would make a perfect Mother's Day gift, n'est pas?

Trish McEvoy’s The Love Fragrance Collection, set to retail at $90, will be available beginning April 18th at TrishMcEvoy.com. Can't wait!

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Song Obsessions of the Month

Haven't Tried Lancôme’s Génifique Yet? What Are You Waiting For?



Génifique has been a runaway hit since its launch in 2009—and with good reason. The lightweight concentrate melts onto skin, wears beautifully under makeup, works on every age and skin type and most importantly, delivers visibly radiant skin in just seven days. Since trying this product when it first debuted, I'm never without a bottle.  Yes, it's just that good!

And here's your opportunity to try this amazing concentrate absolutely free. All throughout March, Lancôme will be offering deluxe, seven-day samples via their Facebook page. Here’s how it works:


2) Not a fan yet? Then click “like” and you’ll be directed to the Génifique experience and offered a coupon for the deluxe sample. Already a fan? Then click directly on the Génifique tab on the left to get started. You can redeem the printed coupon at any Lancôme counter in the U.S.

3) Now for the fun part! After entering your info, you’ll be invited to compliment a friend. Your friend gets a feel-good message on their Facebook news feed, anything from “you’re gorgeous!” to “you’re an amazing sister!”, and gets her own deluxe seven-day supply of Génifique

Soooooo ..... what you waiting for? Not much time left in March. Get clickin'!   :~ D

Tibi x Bobbi Brown Collaborate for a Fab Giveaway



Could there BE a better giveaway to announce the arrival of Spring? Me thinks not.  Just look at this prize giveaway, with spring's hot shades and patterns brimming from every which way you look.  I am drooling at the thought of winning.  And though I considered not sharing as the less of you who enter, the better my own chances of winning, I just couldn't keep it in.

So here are the deets.  The winner will receive a custom, one-of-a-kind Tibi Peony & Python dress AND all pieces from the Bobbi Brown makeup collection including the eyeshadow palette, beauty case, blush, lipgloss, eyeliner and brushes. Sweet!

To enter:
1) Like Tibi and Bobbi Brown on Facebook
2) Follow Tibi on Bloglovin
3) Follow @TibiPR and @askBobbiBrown on Twitter
4) Tweet "I just entered the Tibi / Bobbi Brown contest" (the more you do, the more entries you get)
5) Send facebook@Tibi.com your email address and which of the above you have done

Must enter by March 30th and the winner will be announced Thursday, March 31, 2011. 

You can learn more about the Tibi Peony & Python collection here and Bobbi Brown's gorgeous Peony & Python collection here.  Enjoy!

Monday, March 21, 2011

DIY Cucumber Mint Spa Water



Here's a fab little do-it-yourself treat that does the body good - literally.  This particular recipe earned lots of praise with the rise in popularity of the Flat Belly Diet in 2008 as "Sassy Water".  For those who don't like the taste of plain old water, this may just change your mind about making water drinking a pleasurable, refreshing activity.

Ingredients:
2 liters water (about 8 1/2 cups)
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 medium cucumber peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium lemon thinly sliced
12 small spearmint leaves

Directions:
Mix all the ingredients together in a pitcher
Refrigerate overnight
Strain water
Enjoy over ice cubes
Add mint sprig for garnish (optional)

Cynthia Sass
Cynthia Sass, MPH, MA, RD, former Nutrition Director for Prevention, created the recipe for Sassy Water while developing the Flat Belly Diet with Lisa Vaccariello. Here's a bit more about how these ingredients break down in goodness.

Ginger contains high concentrations of antioxidants and helps soothe the intestinal tract and digestion.  Benefits of ginger come from very potent anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. These substances can help relieve swelling and inflammation, and are also know to aid in reducing nausea.  Gingerols also said to help reduce pain caused by muscle aches, headaches and rheumatism.  Ginger is a good source of potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese and vitamin B6.  Because it's so concentrated, it doesn't take a lot to receive the health benefits.  As an immune booster, ginger may not only be warming on a cold day, but can help promote healthy sweating. A good sweat may can assist in detoxification.  Some studies suggest ginger may even actually help inhibit growth of cancer cells.

Cucumber flesh is primarily composed of water but also contains ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which help soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling. Cucumbers are rich in fiber and contain a variety of beneficial minerals including silica, potassium and magnesium. Cucumber juice is often recommended as a source of silica to improve the complexion and health of the skin, plus cucumber's high water content makes it naturally hydrating—a must for glowing skin. Cucumbers are also used topically for various types of skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn. Two compounds in cucumbers, ascorbic acid and caffeic acid, prevent water retention, which may explain why cucumbers applied topically are often helpful for swollen eyes, burns and dermatitis.


Like many of the fruits and vegetables featured on our website, lemons and limes contain unique flavonoid compounds that have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. In addition to their unique phytonutrient properties, lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, one of the most important antioxidants in nature. Vitamin C is one of the main antioxidants found in food and the primary water-soluble antioxidant in the body. Vitamin C travels through the body neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals can interact with the healthy cells of the body, damaging them and their membranes, and also cause a lot of inflammation, or painful swelling, in the body. This is one of the reasons that vitamin C has been shown to be helpful for reducing some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.  As with other fruits of its kind, lemons are said to help reduce risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke.  Lemon is also a diuretic. This means it is good for people with urinary tract infections and high uric acid problems, such as those with arthritis or rheumatism because it helps flush out all the toxins and bad bacteria.

Spearmint is a pleasantly aromatic herb packed with numerous health benefiting vitamins, antioxidants and phyto-nutrients. The chief essential oil in spearmint is menthol. Other important chemical components of spearmint are α-pinene, β-pinene, carvone, cineole, linalool, limonene, myrcene and caryophyllene. These compounds in mint help relieve fatigue and stress.  The herb parts are also very good in minerals like potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Iron is required for enzymes in cellular metabolism and synthesis of hemoglobin. Potassium in an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. It is also rich in many antioxidant vitamins including vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin C, folates, vitamin B-6, riboflavin and thiamin. Spearmint is said to be an excellent remedy for minor ailments such as headaches, nervous strain, fatigue and stress, as well as for the respiratory problems; helping with asthma and bronchitis. It is thought to aid with digestive problems including nausea, flatulence and hiccups as it relaxes the stomach muscles.


Ok, more information than perhaps you needed to know when contemplating the concocting of an at-home spa drink, but as the ingredients are far more powerful than a casual nod would suggest I decided to give you the whole kit and kaboodle on it.

Enjoy!

sources: world's healthiest foods, livestrong, glo, Cynthia Sass, nutrition and you

Saturday, March 19, 2011

Balloons and Babies!

A recent piece for a baby shower a friend is throwing.

Slightly inspired by the old Curious George paintings by H.A. Rey. Such a classic.

Stila Amazing Free Gift Event Today Only on Bloom!



Secret Saturday free gift event by Bloom Circle is from Stila today and it's a doozy of a goodun!  Just stopping by to share the goodness real quickly as couldn't keep this one all to myself.  It's the Stila Red Carpet Limited Edition Palette, which contains six gorgeous Stila eyeshadows, a shimmer powder, cheek color and lip glaze plus seven extra Stila Lip Glazes - FREE - with any purchase of $70 or more at Bloom Circle.

Bloom Circle offers fabulous products from our favorite beauty brands including CARGO, Clarisonic, Jane Iredale, Ole Henriksen, Kinerase, Redken, REN Skincare (Wow! really? fabulous!), Sircuit Cosmeceuticals, Tigi, Stila and many more! You'll be blown away by what they offer and how discounted the pricing is.  It's an idea that's catching on very quickly.

You must be a Bloom Circle member to take advantage of their special pricing and free gift offers, however membership is completely free and includes vouchers for future purchases. (How can you lose?) I love this place.  Is a beauty lovers paradise.


Stila Free Gift ($178 value) Code: sti319

Offer ends Sunday, 3/20/11 or while supplies last.
(They go quickly so don't dawdle)

Friday, March 18, 2011

REVIEW: A Beautiful Life's Honey'do Shampoo & Conditioner



Are these adorable or what?

Award-winning boutique A Beautiful Life has launched a unique line of organic honey infused haircare.  Honey'do Shampoo and Honey'do Conditioner are sweet treats for the hair, imparting fantastic hydration, shine and manageability. 

The shampoo is sulfate and paraben free, so it doesn't lather immensely, which we all know by now is actually a good thing for hair!  It does, however, gently cleanse hair without stripping and its light formula smells subtly of tangerine - an ABL signature (their iconic All Nighter Hair Powder smells of tangerine loveliness as well).  The conditioner is thick in its honey bear bottle yet surprisingly light in texture.  It may be used as an instant conditioner or leave on a little longer for a deeply hydrating treatment.  I recommend turning the little honey bear conditioner upside down in the shower when storing as the conditioner will dispense easier.  I love how gentle these formulas are on my hair and how soft and shiny it leaves it.  As with most products I bring home that are worth their weight in gold, my daughter has "stolen" these gems for her own use. I've taken to have to hide them in my room (shhhhh!). Whatcha gonna do ...

Listen to some of the extracts in this 'poo/conditioner combo: ivy extract, rosemary extract, tangerine essential oil.  Both products are formulated with organic honey, which is what imparts moisture, shine, softness and manageability to even very dry hair.

These light formulas are a pleasure to use, sweetly sensory with their tangerine essence and a complete delight for hair.  Tony and Jennifer have hit it on the mark yet again.  Is there anything this power couple in beauty chicness can't do?


Honey'do Shampoo and Honey'do Conditioner retail for $16 each ($30 for the duo) and are both available exclusively through A Beautiful Life.  Check them out ... you'll be amazed at all the fun, gorgeous items this trendy boutique offers!




I'm Walking On Sunshine, Woooah!

Suede Teal Jacket by Jenna
Zara Top
Gina Tricot Pants & Skull Purse
Dior Shades
Steve Madden Pumps
7 facts for me, as requested by Theresa from The Stiletto Diaries. Thanks for the award girl!
  1. I am a Gemini with Aquarius rising. That's a lot of air, baby.
  2. My favorite movie is I am Sam.
  3. I almost never cry when sad, but when I'm really angry/disappointed I can cry a river.
  4. I prefer hard truth to kind lies.
  5. Sometimes I think like a brat, but I always feel blessed about my life.
  6. I have my pedicure done all year long.
  7. I love Italian food. And Italy. And I dream about spending my life there. Sometime maybe.
Well, those were some REALLY random facts, but whatever!
As you all know, I always enjoy learning things about you. Do you have something to share? 
Have a wonderful weekend guys!
Lots of love, 
Froso.

Monday, March 14, 2011

Here Comes The Sun

Jackets & Top by Villa
Zara Scarf
Chanel Earrings
Longchamp Legende
Zara Shoes
Biker Gloves from Nikideluxe.com
After such a wonderful, sunny weekend all I can share with you is that song! We are so blessed  having the opportunity to enjoy those little pleasures in life, let's not ruin it with careless hatred (what is wrong with me, I am in such a hippie state of mind...).
Little darling, it's been a long cold lonely winter
Little darling, it feels like years since it's been here
Here comes the sun, here comes the sun
and I say it's all right

The Beatles, 1969.                                            
Share some love,
Froso.    
PS: Niki from Nikideluxe.com sent me those amazing biker gloves as a gift! Aren't they adorable? If you wish to check any other accessories I got from her collections check that, that and that post! Oh, and visit her webshop to the featured links! Always something new to discover.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Vita.MN Covers and Variations!


Hi friends,

Hope you're having a marvelous end to your weekend!

There have been a lot of projects on my end lately, so, therefore, not a lot of blogging. But, now's the time for all those things to come into fruition, which is really the exciting part as I get to share them with you!

The images attached are the original cover illustrations for Vita.mn magazine, for a feature on Minneapolis fashion bloggers (written by Jahna Peloquin). The final cover they chose was actually the second one (the image of the 3 women, but in blue), although, I personally prefer the first, just a little bit more.
Curious to hear your thoughts..

Overall, definitely thrilled to see the finished product though! More good things to come...

-G

Friday, March 11, 2011

Calling All Philosophy Girls: Gift Set SALE!




Select philosophy gift sets are on sale today, but for one day only!  If you're a philosophy girl (waves hands in air) now is a great time to stock up on some favorites or even stash a few kits away as gifts for impromptu occasions. See a kit that includes a product you're dying to try?  Grab it and gift away the products you don't want as little thank you's to friends and family.

Why?

Cuz 40% off these lovelies is a darn good deal!

Visit philosophy online, select your kits from the options shown and enter this special offer code at checkout: 40offgifts .  This special is for one day only, March 11th, or until supplies run out.  Enjoy!

Thursday, March 10, 2011

From Brands Galaxy to Greek Readers, With Love.

Wanna win a 25€  coupon from the first Private Shopping Club in Greece?
All you have to do is to leave a comment  with your e-mail address!
Remember! You have to be at least 18 years old and live in Greece.
The competition will be open until Wednesday, March 16th.
Good luck guys!
After 00:00, that post will be updated with the name of the winner.
Update 17/03: According to random.org Alexia is the lucky winner! Check your e-mail girl!

PS: Feel free to vote more than once!

Chantecaille Spring 2011: Sea Turtle Palette and Tiger in the Wild (Revisited)



Enchanting! That's what comes to mind when I think of Chantecaille.  Once again, Olivia Chantecaille charms us with her delightful palettes that create experiences of both elegance and feeling good about the purchase. 


Universally flattering, the Sea Turtle Palette ($78) features two eye colors in Soft Pearl and Golden Brown, a deep Emerald liner and a pink cheek shade.  The formula is made with the highest quality pearl and pigment particles. The two eye shades reflect the golden warmth of new spring neutrals complimented by an on trend deep sea green eye defining shade. The perfect coral/pink cheek color offers a universally flattering flush of rosy warmth.

Click image to watch the Making of the Spring Look 2011 video

Chantecaille is partnering with Dr. Karen Eckert of the WIDECAST Organization, focused on saving sea turtles in North, South and Central America and the Caribbean. 5% of proceeds from this palette will help WIDECAST ensure the survival of sea turtles.


Tiger in the Wild ($78) was carefully selected to go with Fall Trends and includes eyeshades in Cream, Pewter and Indigo, as well as a flattering sheer persimmon cheek shade, however these shades are divinely perfect for this year's Spring as well. 

Click image to watch backstage beauty for Christopher Kane, London Fashion Week A/W 2011 using Tiger in the Wild Palette

To celebrate and raise awareness for the wild tiger, Chantecaille has created a limited-edition palette with a selection of easy-to-wear cheek and eye shades with an elegant tiger embossing.  While the world celebrates the Year of the Tiger, the plight of this majestic animal continues. In fact, this celebration of the tiger places it in a more perilous situation. Tigers are poached, hunted and exterminated for profit. 5% of the proceeds benefit TRAFFIC .


Chantecaille Sea Turtle Palette and Tiger in the Wild Palette are both available at Space.NK and Nordstrom.