S.W.A.G
Sure Things: Bumble & bumble’s Bb Styling Lotion
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Wednesday, May 16th, 2012
If you regularly flatiron your hair, this could become your new best friend. (Photo courtesy of Natalie Kaar)
Overachievers can be annoying. That is if they’re your siblings or something. But you’ve got to respect them. And when it comes to overachievers in hair products, I’d argue they just about deserve salutes.
Exhibit A of the latter: Bumble & bumble’s Bb Styling Lotion ($25 for 8 fl oz), one of the beauty biz’s longstanding all stars.
The product is meant for hair of all types, but it’s especially well suited for frequently styled, chemically treated or otherwise fragile strands. Let’s face it, in the summer, doesn’t that just about sum up all of our majorly in-need-of-maintenance manes?
What it does: After having saturated towel-dried hair with it before blowdrying in sections, or having applied a few sprays of it to dry hair prior to heat styling (a frequent flatiron user, this is what I do, applying three sprays — one to each side, one to the back of hair), Bumble & bumble’s Bb Styling Lotion adds body, control and sleekness while leaving the hair feeling incredibly soft (has built-in moisturizers) with natural movement. Translation: no stickiness, no weighing down the ‘do, no fly-aways. Totally dreamy.
All that for $25? I’d pay far more — but don’t tell Bumble.
I know you may be thinking “A lotion that doesn’t weigh down the ‘do?” Trust me, I was very skeptical myself, but use it once before flatironing, and I’m betting you’ll quickly become a believer.
Happy shopping — and styling!
–Natalie Kaar
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Tuesday, May 15th, 2012
Current/Elliott Polka Dot Stiletto Crops, were $218, now $99.95 during the Anthropologie Spring Clearance Sale! (Photo: anthropologie.com)
Rainy commutes can really get you down. Wouldn’t you know the retail world has just what ‘s needed to help you re-energize. Deal. After. Deal. It’s as if the stores are all in a race to outdo one another.
A few of the many sensational sales begging for attention today and for a long time coming:
First, four very sweet words: Anthropologie spring clearance sale.
Assuming you’re not caught up on all things Anthro all day, you may also want to explore some shoe sales, and ASOS (for a limited time, score 20 percent off summer styles) and Endless (nab 20 percent off select orders of $100 or more with code “FRIENDS2″ through May 17) are at your beckon call.
Spring beauty on the brain? Bargains abound in this fine category as well. For starters, you can claim a 20-percent discount on Stila cosmetics through the end of May with the code “20OFF.” Bath & Body Works is also offering 20 percent off, plus free shipping on orders of $50 or more, today only with the code “TWENTY50.” And a 15-percent discount is being offered at Skinstore through May 21 with the code “MAY15.”
Of course NoVA’s swimsuit season is just shy of a week away. Time to really whip that bod into shape. And Curves-Falls Church is answering the call. Ladies, if you’re a non-member of Curves score a free 30-day membership by visiting the fitness center this week in celebration of National Women’s Health Week.
And, remember, this weekend brings Boutiques Give Back, the Old Town Boutique District’s annual Charity Day, this Saturday, May 19, when over 30 local charities will be supported through shopping at the OTBD’s amazing boutiques. There are also opportunities to recycle and save. For instance, donate a gently used bra to Bloomers on Saturday and get 20 percent off on a new one, plus a free tank top while supplies last.
Also this weekend, the uber-popular DKNY PR Girl is coming to Bloomingdale’s Tysons Corner Saturday, May 19, from 1-3 p.m. Join DKNY Style Director Anthony Conti as he presents the season’s top trends and DKNY PR Girl’s favorite pieces from the collection. Shop the collection, and receive an exclusive DKNY PR Girl tote bag with your purchase of $300 or more; spend $500 or more, receive a Bauble Bar bracelet. Plus, score a special gift just for letting Bloomie’s know to expect you. See a sales associate, or call 703-556-4716 to RSVP.
Happy shopping — and saving!
–Natalie Kaar
Style Sense with Kate Michael: A True Model Citizen
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Monday, May 14th, 2012
A woman of many hats—one of which, technically a crown—Kate Michael is a regular entrepreneurial, politically-inclined beauty queen. Working as a research assistant for the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee in Georgia, Michael moved to DC for a job on Capitol Hill. As one motivation led her to the next, Michael’s career expanded. Originally a website intended to document her journey as Miss District of Columbia, Michael explains how she came to develop K Street Kate—an online magazine that features all notable happenings in DC.
Michael competed in the 2007 Miss America pageant as an advocate for the importance of literacy—in every sense of the word. (Photo courtesy: Tim Coburn)
Q: When and why did you move to DC?
A: I came to DC in 2004 to work on Capitol Hill.
Q: You were awarded Miss District of Columbia in 2006. What motivated you to compete?
A: As a Hill staffer, I was surrounded by very impressive people with passionate ideas—and most of them had graduate degrees. I thought that I should pursue one as well, to stay competitive. But financing higher education is expensive! The Miss America Scholarship Program helped me to learn more about myself, serve my city and pay for some of those grad school loans! And to be honest, one of the best things that came out of the entire experience was the opportunity to learn more about DC as a place to live, not just work—and certainly not just politics.
Q: What prompted you to develop your own online magazine? What topics does it focus on and what clientele does it cater to?
A: At first, the site was a place for me to share my journey as Miss District of Columbia, an online diary of the year so to speak, featuring society parties, local openings and other news of interest. But at that time, there was a lack of lifestyle news availability specific to DC. So while I considered a halt to posting, the audience I had attracted was begging me to continue! In the almost six years since we’ve been publishing online, we’ve honed our hyperlocal content to include everything you’d expect from a lifestyle (aka “glossy”) magazine—food, fashion, events, local notables. We’re truly Livin’ La Vida Local!
Q: Is fashion a big component in your life?
A: Fashion is huge in my life, [exclaims Michael, with added emphasis on ‘huge’] particularly because in addition to running K Street Kate I am a fashion (runway) model.
Q: When did you develop your interest in fashion?
A: Working with some of the top names in fashion for the last 6 years or so, I’ve really learned about the industry—and not just the beautiful clothes but also the business behind the brands. I’d say I always loved shopping and showing my personal style, but it was this up close and personal contact that gave me a love for labels.
Q: Who are some of you favorite fashion icons—dead or alive?
A: No surprise, my ultimate icon is Audrey Hepburn, in fashion and life. I’m in awe of her style, her career, and her philanthropic pursuits throughout life. Currently, I like to follow the wardrobe choices of Blake Lively, Rose Byrne and oh so many others. My fashion favorites change all the time—kind of like my own personal style. My “signature” is to change it up!
Q: What are some of your favorite clothing stores in the Washington DC metro area?
A: There are so many! I find great dresses for events and appearances at Saks, Cusp, Intermix, Urban Chic, Wink and so many other boutiques. And a lot of incredibly talented local designers offer to create custom pieces for me as well. K Street Kate also has partnered with Style Owner to curate our own online store of our favorite fashions called DC Style File which I shop from all the time!
Georgia native assimilates to the district like a pro. (Photo courtesy: Joe Reblando)
Q: You’ve competed and won in pageants, appeared on the pages of Elle magazine and been awarded Verizon 2006-2007 Pollin Award for your service and dedication to the Washington DC community. What causes and interests motivate your community work?
A: While I am happy to devote a lot of time, attention and energy to a variety of worthy causes, I think each of us have to look into our souls to find that one—ok, maybe two—causes that really speak to us. I chose literacy, including reading skills of course, but also financial literacy, technical literacy and cultural literacy. I think these are essential tools to be the best you can be, as well as an integral member of society. Literacy was my platform at Miss America and I continue to work with organizations like the Junior League of Washington, the Heart of America Foundation, First Book, Reading is Fundamantal, the Washington Literacy Council and others that have literacy as their core mission.
Lately, I’ve also been very active in breast cancer funding and research. Many of my young friends have been diagnosed—or perished—from this illness which touches too many.
Q: What is your next step? Where do you want to be in 10 years? Do you see yourself staying in DC?
A: The world changes so quickly, it’s impossible to plan. In 10 years, five years, even two years from now I hope I’m still working to better this city that I love so much. I was/am Miss District of Columbia—how could I ever dream to leave?
It seems that for Kate Michael, as long as she can dream it, she can do it.
-Hilary Adleberg
Justin Timberlake’s Newest Designing Gig Making Homes Gorgeous
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Monday, May 14th, 2012
Justin Timberlake helped make the boy band *NSYNC beyond famous, brought sexy back all on his own, co-founded what has become a renowned denim and lifestyle apparel brand in William Rast and has starred in some of the funniest skits to ever be performed on SNL.
Wishing you could emulate just a bit of the multitalented star’s iconic style? Now you can bring a little Timberlake into your abode. The star has teamed up with esteemed Hollywood stylist/interior designer Estee Stanley in designing and curating the luxury home collection HOMEMINT.
(Timberlake and Stanley welcome shoppers to HOMEMINT. Video: YouTube)
The really cool thing about the HOMEMINT website is that it offers a free, quick style quiz that helps narrow down the amazing items to those that you should be most interested in — gotta love filtering — with new selections highlighted monthly. The site also offers memberships for $9.99 a month, the benefits of said membership being early access to new designs, discounted pricing. But you don’t have to be a member to buy from the collection.
No surprise to me, my top match after taking the quiz was a pillow, and I do love it. Another hand-picked pick I prefer is the Moroccan basket.
And you thought Pinterest was addictive?!
Happy shopping! Bag up some beauties!
–Natalie Kaar
Mother’s Day Guide: Darling and DIY
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Friday, May 11th, 2012
Still stumped about what to get mom on her special day? Well you’ve got two days to make up your mind and hopefully these DIY gift ideas will help! All of these DIY projects are attractively easy and easily attractive—especially considering the two-day time restraint.
Click the photo for a list of instructions and supplies. (Photo courtesy: heygorg.com)
It’s tea time! These teacup candles are such a cute way to display some gorgeous vintage china. However, I wouldn’t recommend using mom’s good china to make her present.
Click the photo for a list of instructions and supplies. (Photo courtesy: wednesdaycustomdesign.com)
For an adorable indoor plant use mugs, mason jars and other nifty glass containers to grow a garden. Plant some lavender, rosemary, basil and any other plant that mom would love, make sure it is well tended to and this will be a Mother’s Day gift that just keeps on giving!
Click the photo for a list of instructions and supplies. (Photo courtesy: marthastewart.com)
Make mom some fragrant soaps with scents of ginger, chamomile and honey to soothe and sanitize.
Click the photo for a list of instructions and supplies. (Photo courtesy: marthastewart.com)
Homemade tub tea is a nice option for moms that enjoy a soak in the tub every now and then. Make a variety of scents for mom to choose from so that the next time she wants to take a bath, she can just drop in a tea packet and submerge into relaxing aromas.
Click the photo for a list of instructions and supplies. (Photo courtesy: marthastewart.com)
Elegant and simple is the perfect way to describe this lace picture mat. Lace is a timeless fabric that will always represent gentle, beautiful quality—just like mom.
Click the photo for a list of instructions and supplies. (Photo courtesy: marthastewart.com)
Help mom go green by giving her a personally decorated tote bag that she can use for grocery shopping, running errands and whatever other duties mom routinely tackles.
Click the photo for a list of instructions and supplies. (Photo courtesy: marthastewart.com)
A tad bit more in-depth DIY project, this painted service wear may just be worth the extra effort. It’s cute and can be as personal as you want.
The best thing about these gifts is that you can opt to DIY or to do-it-as-a-family!
-Hilary Adleberg
Mother’s Day Guide: Beautiful Bouquets
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Thursday, May 10th, 2012
You may think flowers are so done when it comes to gift giving at Mother’s Day, but we personally don’t know many, make that any, moms who don’t just love some beautiful buds. And while time may be tight, with the special day to celebrate Mom coming up in just three days, you can still fulfill online orders without breaking the bank.
For instance …
FTD is full of gorgeous bouquets, like this sophisticated bundle, just $49.99 including the vase (plus shipping), with delivery still available on Saturday. All bouquets on the site are currently discounted 25 percent.
(Photo: FTD.com)
Another favorite at FTD, this Deep Emotions bouquet by Better Homes & Gardens comes with a free vase plus a free one-year subscription to the magazine. Various sizes range from just $39.99 to $74.99 plus shipping.
(Photo: FTD.com)
It’s also lovely to receive flowers that will last long after the holiday, like this gorgeous Celebration Orchid, with two sizes available from $89.99 to $99.99 plus shipping, from 1800flowers.com; save $20 with the code RMN20.
(Photo: 1800flowers.com)
Some sites even offer Sunday delivery, like floristexpress.net. Most local florists are still accepting orders as well. And, honestly, if you live near Mom, it’s amazing how much you can save — while still getting that wow factor — by buying flowers at a grocery store or farmers market then arranging them in an inexpensive vase from, say, Target or Michael’s.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Thursday, May 10th, 2012
(Photo: shoptreat.com)
Earlier this week we filled you in on the sad news that Old Town’s beloved TREAT is packing up and moving soon to San Fran as owner Jennifer Donahue relocates to the Bay area with her family.
But you know the drill, when one door closes, another window is opened. TREAT’s moving sale is in full effect! Through May 26, score an extra 30 percent off new spring and summer sales (online, use “30OFF”) and an extra 50 percent off Final Sale red-lined items (online, use code “50OFF”).
For example, you can save an extra 50 percent on the red BB Dakota garland pleated dress to the right, a total steal at $52.50 before the additional savings.
Talk about the definition of bittersweet parting.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Mother’s Day Guide: Brunch Dressing
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Wednesday, May 9th, 2012
Whether you’re taking mom out to a swanky restaurant or hosting from home, here are some outfit inspirations that will serve you well at any Mother’s Day brunch. These outfits are classically fresh and clean cut while incorporating subtle, funky details that mom is sure to approve of.
- Block Dots Peter Pan Collar Dress, $47.90, romwe.com; Tomas Maier, $562, matchesfashion.com; Mary Jane Court Shoe, $69.90, zara.com; Sweet Zinnia Crystal Studs, $78, katespade.com; Dior New Dior Vernis Nail Lacquer in Red Royalt, $23, lordandtaylor.com; Leather Scallop Cross Body Bag, $64, us.topshop.com (Photo courtesy: polyvore.com)
- Multi Stripe Square Neck Dress, $27, us.dorothyperkins.com; The Suede Sidewalk Skimmer, $98, madewell.com; Kate Spade New York Sweet Zinnia Chandelier Earrings, $69.99, couture.zappos.com; Mustache Watch, $29, urbanoutfitters.com; NARS Lipstick in Pago Pago, $24, bloomingdales.com (Photo courtesy: polyvore.com)
Curve Seam Cigarette Trousers in Lemon, $76, us.topshop.com; Laugh Cry Repeat heart Tee, $66, madewell.com; Easter 81 Jacket, $52.15, quicksilver.com; The Polka Dots Collection, $295, brahmin.com; Sprouls Sandals, $60, aldoshoes.com; Serenity Small Stone Drops, $34, stelladot.com (Photo courtesy: polyvore.com)
Happy Mother’s Day!
-Hilary Adleberg
Maternity Fashion Show Aims to End Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Wednesday, May 9th, 2012
(Photo: Shutterstock.com/Lorelyn Medina)
According to The National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS), each year there are as many babies (40,000) born with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) as there are new cases of autism. And FASD occurs more often than Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) combined.
The good news: FASD is 100-percent preventable if women are educated about the risks of consuming alcohol while pregnant and avoid the risks.
“I went to the doctor at 32 weeks because I was experiencing contractions with pain, and the attending resident, who was also pregnant, told me that a glass of wine might help me relax,” says Katia Delrahim-Howlett, a member of the event planning committee whose Ph.D. studies focused on FASD before she became involved with NOFAS. “Because of my studies, this type of comment is not as harmful to me as it could be to a woman who does not have all the facts about FASD, and the risks associated with just one drink during pregnancy.”
While incidences of FASD are prevalent and facts about it not as widely known as what NOFAS would hope, federal funds to spread awareness as well as prevent and treat FASD are declining. Working to change the conversation about the sticky subject of FASD and maintain the support that’s necessary to stop it, NOFAS is looking to engage expecting mothers in new ways.
Says Kate Boyce Reeder, NOFAS board chair, “We are stepping up outreach on many levels and engaging women to become more involved in FASD prevention by focusing on the hopeful goal we all desire: the birth of happy babies.” One fun new way comes in the form of a “Smart Moms, Healthy Babies” fashion show on May 20.
The invite-only event — to request an invitation, email Brianna Montgomery at montgomery@nofas.org — will be held at the home of Shaista and Ray Mahmood, with NBC-4 Morning News anchor Eun Yang presiding as Mistress of Ceremonies. In addition to the fashion show, which will feature apparel from Destination Maternity, festivities will include an early dinner, a silent auction and non-alcoholic cocktails created by a mixologist from Georgetown’s Peacock Cafe.
Honorary hosts include Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Tim Johnson (D-SD) as well as Senator Mark Warner (D-VA); General (Ret.) Eric Shinseki; House Members Jerry Lewis (R-CA), Jim Moran (D-VA), Jo Ann Emerson (R-MO) and Norm Dicks (D-WA), plus numerous former members of the Senate and House.
Tickets are $250 per individual and $150 for expecting mothers.
–Natalie Kaar
Marvelous Gifts for New and Expectant Moms
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Tuesday, May 8th, 2012
(Photo: Shutterstock.com/Inge Schepers)
It’s estimated by Kaiser Family that approximately 300 women give birth each day in the D.C.-Metro area. Should you be celebrating a new or expectant mom this Mother’s Day, we’re here with a bit of assistance.
After all, when it comes to honoring a woman on her first Mother’s Day as a mom, gift giving can be especially intimidating. Not only are you celebrating an incredibly joyous, momentous occasion; here’s guessing you want to help relieve any new mom worries she may have, strike a sentimental chord that melts her to mush, and give her something that she’ll treasure forever and ever.
Those are some lofting aspirations. But with a little help from SWAG, and by going with your heart, we’re anticipating all smiles all around.
Help She Won’t Ask for But She’ll Assuredly Adore
(Photo: Shutterstock.com/Yuri Arcurs)
While new and expectant moms are absolutely smitten with their new little peanuts, they’re also running a bit low on sleep and, especially in the first case, totally devoid of downtime. But wouldn’t you know, they aren’t about to ask for help. When help arrives unsolicited, however, they’re incredibly appreciative.
Speaking from experience, as a new mom, you can’t put a price on a prepared meal that a friend drops off when you’ve been so busy feeding your baby that buying or making food for yourself is the last thing on your mind. And being told that you’ve been given even just an hour to yourself for a pedicure as your hubby holds down the fort can make you feel like a new person. Have date nights arranged? We’re talking total ecstasy.
You could present this incredible gift in all sorts of creative ways — design free passes, type up a kicking-back calendar, etc. — no shopping required, except for art supplies or a printed card, perhaps.
A Special Spa Experience for Moms Who Give Birth on Mother’s Day
Here’s a heads-up for those of you who know a prego mama who is due on Mother’s Day, May 13: Serenity Day Spa is honoring new moms in the D.C.-Metro Area who give birth this Sunday, May 13, by giving them a gift certificate to be redeemed in the future for a luxurious spa treatment of their choice. Find out more about the Serenity Stork Surprise by calling the spa at 703-549-9212 (Alexandria location) or 703-709-6596 (Herndon location). Serenity also has several indulgent Mother’s Day packages with multiple treatments available for purchase that any mom would love.
Personalized Jewelry from Etsy
Fingerprint charm necklace by Etsy designer EarthshinesDesigns1; $60 (Photo: etsy.com)
Ladies love jewelry, and when jewelry tells a story, all the better. That makes personalized baubles for new and expectant moms pretty close to a sure bet. And there is perhaps no better place to search for such pretties as Etsy.
From hand-stamped initial necklaces and brag bracelets to personalized lockets, engraved earrings, handprint- or footprint-molded charms and more, there are plenty of stylish, sentimental gifts she’ll sport again and again, and always hold close to her heart.
A few favorite Etsy shops and specific gifts in this category:
Fingerprint jewelry (note that these orders will not be ready by Mother’s Day)
Chew Beads, Fashion Accessories That Work Overtime as Teethers
Chewbeads 3-Cornelia Bracelet Gift Set, $36.50 (Photo: Chewbeads.com)
Boy or girl baby, no matter the gender, babies love to play with their momma’s neck baubles, and soon they become their chew toys. That poses two problems.
One, there are safety issues to consider; materials used in jewelry many times aren’t meant to be put into the mouth.
Second, Mom’s baubles are probably not up to the challenge; all that spitting and tugging can’t be good for the shiny stuff.
The stylish solution: Chewbeads, baby-safe necklaces and bracelets that come in a wide variety of fun colors (especially awesome for spring and summer) and several different styles, with prices starting at just $12.50.
Part teether, part fashion accessory, this gift works overtime and pleases the whole newly formed family.
Something to Help Mom Continue Celebrating With Baby Throughout the Year
Etsy Designer Purple Possom's onesie stickers, $9 (Photo: etsy.com)
A few ideas she’ll love:
Hire a professional photographer to take newborn photographs. Even if a new mom or her other half is a great photographer, this gives both parents more of a chance to just adore, adore, adore. And the photos taken will be treasured forever.
Hire a professional photographer to take maternity photos. Whether the expectant mom you’re celebrating is bold enough to go the Demi Moore/Jessica Simpson route or more subdued (prefers to be photographed in clothing), she should enjoy capturing this most special time in her life. And, no doubt, she’ll look back in amazement after she gives birth and reflects on all that her body is capable of doing.
Buy onesie stickers to help Mom celebrate monthly milestones. Etsy, especially PurplePossum, has oodles of adorable options.
Purchase a baby book; Mom’ll love bragging about each new development at every spare second — speaking of spare seconds, remember to give her a few. These books from Rag & Bone Bindery, available at Apple Seed in Alexandria, are especially adorable.
One thing’s for sure, with any gift for any mom, it really is the thought that counts.
Happy gift giving. And Happy Mother’s Day to all moms out there!
–Natalie Kaar