September 27, 2009
List of things to do before I die. Just kidding… dye.
Of course, I would definitely recommend seeing a professional stylist over a home hair dye job, but I get it – times are tough. Ok, so let’s try this again.
List Of Things To Do Before I Dye
- The Obvious Tip: Pick a color that compliments your skin tone.
- The Most Overlooked Tip: Choose a tone that will also match your wardrobe. If you mainly stick to neutrals, then you’re on the fairly safe side. But if you incorporate a lot of bright yellows, blaring oranges, and super warm tones, you probably don’t want to go with a fire engine red do. It’s just a bit much.
- When doing box comparison, don’t just compare price tags. Look at the ingredients, the label, and the name behind it to choose a reputable vegan brand. You can go ahead and Google to your hairs’ content, or just trust my quick picks. Naturtint Permanent is exceptional for looking perfectly natural. Or you can indulge your wild side with Manic Panic N.Y.C. Both are 100% vegan.
- Don’t forget the importance of aftercare. Invest in a top-grade color-stay vegan conditioner like ABBA Pure Color Protect.
- After you’ve dyed and dried, brush out gently with synthetic bristles. This a fairly simple one, since vegan hair brushes are the most commonly manufactured kind. Just be sure to stay away from “natural bristle” brushes – because “natural” is really just a naughty euphemism for animal hair.
Naturtint Permanent
September 22, 2009
Hopelessly lost dragging around an ocean of over-stuffed arm candy? Seeking “multi-tote syndrome” salvation? The answer’s easy ’cause Rock N Moms does all the dirty work for you. Chic looking diaper bags are the latest domestic accessories re-purposed as career carry-alls. So now, you can pack it like a pro, and cut down on the fluster your morning commute causes. They’re a far cry from the mostly mundane, usually leather briefcases that leave little room for more than a laptop. I’m a fan in particular of their Jett’s Red Skull Tote. The 12×15x4 plastic-coated fabric bag boasts over 12 compartments and an awesome amount of extras. The pacifier pouch is the perfect place to store a pillbox or compact. And it even has an insulated [water] bottle holder, which saves my steno pads from sogginess and condensation. I’ve managed to make use of every single facet except the changing mat and stroller straps. The stoplight red exterior gives it that power color punch, while the subtle skull design remains edgy without being in your face. It’s not only my portable personal assistant but my purse as well, making it my solo shoulder mate for the day. *Disclaimer: Take charge ‘tude not included.
[$75 at rocknmoms.com]
Rock N Mom
September 13, 2009
You bet I just ripped off the title of one of NYC TV’s hippest shows. But they can keep their clever concept, because I’m talking dress codes – not zips. Along with a few beauty bonus perks, my swanky new gig also came with a prescribed apparel policy: put-together, professional, and predominantly black. While the hue played right in to my usual palette, I was sort of lacking in the adult-age attire. But with a little help from my go-to online gallerias, I was able to assemble a working wardrobe that actually worked for me.

And when I’m feeling extra fierce, I like to jazz up my basics easy-bake style with man-made synthetics from Hollywood Mirror. Every modern maven needs a punchy power tie and trendy belt to secure her smart status.

Now you got it, girl. And I think I’ve got it down too. Just one quick tip for sure success: Don’t take any lip – unless it’s from New York Color (or maybe a critical client – P.S. they all are) – ’cause they know what they’re yappin’ about. N.Y.C.’s Retro Red lipstick sends me off with enough moisture and shine to make it through my dizzying day. And although they put in a lot of lab time in order to pop out these top-notch tubes, they never test their products on animals.
[$41 Liquorbrand cardigan at greasegasandglory.com, $15 cap-sleeved shirt at oldnavy.com, $39.50 low-rise trouser at delias.com, red leopard tie and silver skull belt at hollywoodmirror.com, $0.99 ultra-moist lipwear at newyorkcolor.com]
September 12, 2009
In addition to my reoccurring “Faux Find” and “Chinese New Year” themed posts, I’ve got a seriously savvy new series to add to the mix. “Calendar Crunch” is your virtual alert to pull out your appointment pads and clear your schedule for some lovely, local, and/or pet-friendly priorities. Consider it your introduction to the life of a socially conscious socialite. I’ll be giving you the what, where, when, and what to do next – register, RSVP, pencil it in, possibly make a purchase, take a peek at your e-mail, or turn your little peepers towards some massive media coverage. No place to jot it all down? Try The Great Elephant Poo Poo Paper Company’s Notebox (yup, you read right – elephant poo poo), available at their online Poo-tique. The paper promotes sustainability and a portion of the profits support elephant welfare and conservation programs.
[$12.99 at poopoopaper.com]
September 4, 2009
While, I’m disgusted by the idea of crocodile farming, I’m all in favor of this Lux de Ville “Rebel” faux croc bag. With the kiss lock closure and a serious amount of metal, it manages to maintain all the bite of a real bag without harming any of the fierce freshwater reptiles it resembles. This white hot accessory instantly ups you to risk-taker status. So, go shead and premiere it post Labor Day – I dare ya.
[$80 at luxedeville.com]
August 30, 2009
It’s almost time to say “Bon Voyage!” to your summer sundresses. But before you board ship, why not have one final fashion fling with these stripy shifts guaranteed to snag you a cute sailor. The Anchor Lush dress boasts a jailhouse vibe with a subtle “Anchors Away!” detail. But don’t be fooled, the Sweet Life Ruffle dress is certainly a more scandalous sight, with it’s piratey appearance. Just when you thought you were at the rope’s end of your wardrobe, Rock Steady style saves the day. But where to showcase these show-stopppers? Well, I must insist on a much more animal-friendly activity than fishing. So, have a rum cocktail or ten. Even if you end up three stripes to the wind by nightfall, these durable poly-rayon duos are set to surive everything between the devil and the deep blue sea, a kickin’ coco daquari, and then some.
[$49 anchor lush dress at steady.bigcartel.com]
[$48 sweet life ruffle dress at steady.bigcartel.com]
August 27, 2009
Yup, that pretty much says it.
Ever heard of Vivienne Pickle? How about Jennifer Artur? She’s the make-up savvy rocker turned fashion entrepreneur who invented the bubbly line of boisterous hair accessories. With a touch of Victorian elegance and new wave New Jersey cheekiness, each piece is handmade. Adorned with cameos, skulls, flowers, beads, baubles, and charms alike, no real feathers, wings, or pretty petals were plucked from any plant or wildlfe for the hair clip’s creation. You can find a great selection at New Hope, PA eco-conscious boutique A Beatiful Life.
So what’s the dilemma? Well, I find myself in quite the pickle when trying to pick just one.
[$46 dress at abeautifullife.com]