Longines Celebrates and Awards Elegant Timepieces at Preakness Stakes

The Swiss watchmaker Longines was the Official Partner, Timekeeper and Watch of the 142nd Preakness Stakes, at which Cloud Computing ridden by Xavier Castellano stole the limelight. The owner, jockey and trainer were granted an elegant Longines watch to celebrate Cloud Computing’s victory. The Longines Dixie Stakes, the race presented by the watchmaker, was captured by World Approval and Julien Leparoux.

Longines, the Official Partner, Timekeeper and Watch of the 142nd Preakness Stakes, ceremoniously awarded the winning owner, trainer and jockey of Cloud Computing with elegant watches at Pimlico racetrack on Saturday, May 20. Cloud Computing won the second leg of the esteemed Triple Crown series. The Swiss watch brand is also proudly associated with the 1st and 3rd leg of the series as the Official Partner, Timekeeper and Watch: The Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes.

Longines had a prominent presence throughout Pimlico on Preakness day. The watch brand granted watches to the winning horse World Approval’s owner, trainer and jockey of the Longines Dixie Stakes. The brand also hosted the Longines Prize for Elegance at Preakness Fashion Contest to celebrate the refined style of the female racegoers. With the help of a panel of judges, Longines chose the most elegant woman and presented her a watch.

The race day was attended by three of the four laureates of the 2017 Longines Ladies Awards: American jumping rider Reed Kessler, Australian jockey Michelle Payne and Canadian business woman in the horseracing industry Belinda Stronach. The previous day, these personalities and the fourth recipient, American jumping rider Georgina Bloomberg, were honored at a ceremony organized in Washington DC by Longines for their careers dedicated to positive influence and exceptional commitment in the equine cause.

The spectators at Pimlico racetrack had the opportunity to discover the Official Watch of the event: a lady model of the Longines DolceVita collection. The steel and gold lady piece is set with diamonds and features a solid rose gold crown. It displays a silver-coloured “flinqué” dial adorned with painted Roman numerals and a rose gold hourglass. It is mounted on a steel and rose gold cap bracelet. The watch belongs to a collection, which has been an homage to the sweetness and femininity of life since its inception.

Longines has drawn strength from this commitment throughout its centuries-long history. An engraving featuring jockey and mount appeared on a chronograph as early as 1878. It wasn’t long before the model earned the success it deserved: in 1881, most sports judges in New York began using it as their preferred time measuring tool. Since then, Longines’ commitment toward those who organize the most famous equestrian events has never faltered. Today, Longines’ presence can be found on race tracks over the world. If the equestrian sports consolidate Elegance, Tradition and Performance, Longines carries those very same values in its heart.

For more information and photography from the 142nd Preakness Stakes visit:

http://inr.synapticdigital.com/Longines/preakness_2017

Jockey Javier Castellano celebrates after riding Cloud Computing to win the 142nd Preakness Stakes and the second leg of the Triple Crown, Saturday, May 20, 2017, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the Triple Crown. (Diane Bondareff/AP Images for Longines)
Cloud Computing, ridden by jockey Javier Castellano, edges past Classic Empire to win the 142nd Preakness Stakes and the second leg of the Triple Crown, Saturday, May 20, 2017, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the Triple Crown. (Diane Bondareff/AP Images for Longines)
Australian jockey Michelle Payne, American show jumper Reed Kessler and Hall of Fame Award Winning Jockey Ramon Dominguez, left to right, present Jennifer Winslow, left, with a Longines DolceVita timepiece after she won the Longines Prize for Elegance at the Preakness Stakes, Saturday, May 20, 2017, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the 142nd annual Preakness Stakes and the Triple Crown. (Diane Bondareff/AP Images for Longines)
Kevin Spacey waits for the start of the 142nd Preakness Stakes and the second leg of the Triple Crown, Saturday, May 20, 2017, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Longines, the Swiss watch manufacturer known for its elegant timepieces, is the Official Watch and Timekeeper of the Triple Crown. (Diane Bondareff/AP Images for Longines)

Keep your Wedding Weekend Style on Point

Everyone loves a good logo tee and baseball hat…Support your local girl gang with a bold new brand that promotes girl power and is constantly encouraging women to support each other and celebrate each other’s victories…Especially for the Bride’s big weekend! Whether you’re feeling’ trendy in a cute tee, or looking to break in that must-have hat, Friday + Saturday has all the empowering vibes you need for your weeding weekend.  Plus these items make the BEST gifts for your bridesmaids!

Designed and created in house by an all girl team all under the age of 30, Friday + Saturday is built on the brains of badass babes. After years of running two successful retail companies founder Kirsten Blowers partnered with Kelsey Sugg to craft Friday + Saturday, a clever creation centered around a passion for pop culture.

Check out these adorable items you can rock this wedding season:

 

Best Weekend Ever T-shirt $34

 

Celebrate your Weekend with this shirt!  You can all match.  We promise you’ll get lots of smiles when people see you wearing this one!

 

Weekend Hat $28

 

So simple and so perfect…  You need this weekend baseball hat!

 

Let’s hear it for the babes! Gather your girls and celebrate the bride and your weekend! #CelebrateTheBabes with Friday + Saturday!

Longing for these looks? Friday + Saturday is sold in over 150 stores across the country and all of their products are available on https://shopriffraff.com.

 

What I Wore: Color Block Sleeveless Dress

A personal fact about myself is that I have one shopping rule.  Generally, I purchase items from boutiques or stores that have a petite collection.  I am short in stature and require a certain length and fit.  On this site I like to share styles and trends that are appealing to not only myself but to my readers as well.

This month, I was invited to attend a Women of Distinction Spring Tea.  It’s an annual event and everyone should place such an occasion on her calendar for spiritual inspiration.

What I Wore:

I opted to wear this particular dress because color blocking is the easiest way to wear varying colors.  It’s literally an art exhibit displayed in the form of ready – to -wear apparel.  For a non-traditional flair I selected a pair of black strappy heels along with a quilted handbag.

The Spring Tea was amazing and my look provided a seasonal, chic statement!

 

Lipstick:  Anastacia Beverly Hills | Quilted Handbag Comparison:  Rebecca Minkoff | Dress:  Express | 3 Stone Gem Ring:  Anjolee

WATERFRONT PLACE HOTEL REOPENS AS MORGANTOWN MARRIOTT

Waterfront Place Hotel officially transitioned to Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place at Two Waterfront Place in Morgantown, W. Va on Wednesday, May 17th, 2017.

The newly renovated Morgantown Marriott is conveniently located one mile from West Virginia University and offers an airport shuttle, full-service spa, fitness center, pool, and a full-service Starbucks®, open from 6 am to 6 pm daily. The hotel has 207 guest rooms, consisting of double-queen, king and suites, with both river and city views available.

To ensure a comfortable stay for travelers, all rooms are equipped with complimentary high speed Internet, a desk, a mini refrigerator, a 55” television, and a coffee maker for early risers. Located within the hotel, Morgantown Marriott is home to the Morgantown Event Center, with 18 meeting rooms with more than 50,000 square feet of meeting and event space, perfect for business, weddings, parties and more.

Guests and locals are invited to dine at Bourbon Prime, a new bourbon-inspired, full-service restaurant located at the hotel.  Executive Chef Jeremy Bosley has created a “wild and wonderful” West Virginia experience by consistently offering a menu of locally sourced items, including prime cuts of beef, inventive artisanal cocktails, and fine craft beers. Bourbon Prime is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Founded in 1991 by Navin C. Dimond, Stonebridge Companies is a privately owned, innovative hotel owner, operator and developer headquartered near Denver, Colorado. Its diverse portfolio of properties includes select-service, extended-stay, mid-scale and full-service hotels in markets throughout the U.S. For detailed information, visit http://www.sbcos.com.

Color Correcting: Solution To Skin Imperfections

Contouring, Strobing, and Color Correcting are three techniques that are well-known by pro make-up artist.  Looking in the mirror (at-home) we often discover a few nasty skin imperfections. Some would say that wearing make-up is the issue but truthfully it’s more about the natural environment and heredity.

Color correcting is the solution to this problem.  It’s considered the one technique that will neutralize your complexion and skin tone.  This magical concealer is different from the average cover-up and can be found in the rainbow colors of purple, green, pink, and yellow.  The cream or stick will mask dark circles (or tattoos) underneath your foundation.

One of the most important tips to remember is that Color Correcting sticks are based on your skin complexion.  For example, darker skin tones should use an orange concealer while lighter complexions are encouraged for yellow primers.

Do you have any Color Correcting tips?  If so, leave a message in the box below.

 

butter LONDON + The Knot at Kohl’s

Wedding season is upon us and what better way to celebrate than with butter LONDON’s newest collaboration with The Knot. Join us next Saturday, May 20th, at Kohl’s Caesar’s Bay for complimentary manicures and makeup touch ups.

 

butter LONDON + The Knot Beauty Spotlight Event at Kohl’s

Saturday, May 20th

11:00 am – 6:00 pm

Kohl’s Caesar’s Bay

8973 Bay Pkwy #1, Brooklyn, NY 11214 (Beauty Department)
RSVP for manicures and makeup touchups – 718.266.6357

Eavara Botanical Facial Cleanser and Pure Paradise Day Cream | Beauty Review

Most women want to appear naturally beautiful without the dependence of makeup.  On this site, I am always an advocate for glowing skin because it’s the foundation (or the base) of cosmetics application.

Eavara has a new Botanical Facial Cleanser and Day Cream.  The company’s philosophy is organic and natural skin care.  This means, there’s no chemical ingredients that could potentially irritate the skin.  

I had the opportunity to review the product line.  My first impression was the botanical scent and soft texture of the cleanser.  This particular product can be used both day and night, which is the proper skin care regimen.

After washing my face and patting dry with a towel, I applied the Pure Paradise Day Cream.  The directions on the bottle states use after cleansing and before makeup.  

After using the product (for a week) my skin had a natural, radiant appearance and received fewer breakouts due to the climate change.  To learn more about the product for yourself visit Eavara.com 

Memorial Day Beauty Must-Haves

With Memorial Day just around the corner, upgrade your beauty routine for the new season and only pack the essentials! Look your best all weekend long with these beauty must-haves.

Cool off after a few days in the sun with the KORRES Greek Yoghurt After- Sun Cooling Gel. An ultra-cooling cream gel that immediately provides long-lasting freshness and comfort to the face and body. Ideal for after sun exposure, nourishing Greek Yoghurt hydrates the skin, instantly relieving excessive heat and stinging. Cooling Gel helps reduce skin redness and prolong suntan ($26; Sephora.com).

Store the Lavanila Laboratories Mini Sport Luxe Deodorant in your beach bag for long lasting freshness all weekend long. This deodorant was created for life in motion. Lavanila’s proprietary, award-winning beta glucan technology is infused with SmartSport™ for high-performance defense and nourishment, and bursts with long-lasting vanilla breeze freshness to break down sweat molecules and deliver superior, invisible, all-natural odor protection. ($9; Lavanila.com).

Take your Cuvée Essentials wherever you go while traveling this long weekend. A three-piece travel set to help prolong any style, the Shampoo, Conditioner and Styling Balm are the basics for the girl on the move. Shampoo and Conditioner to gently cleanse, add shine and hydration. Styling balm will help protect, tame frizz, without weighing hair down. Now that’s glamour on the go! ($30; CuveeBeauty.com).

Keep your hair up and out of your face in the summer sun, while still looking chic with the Hairdo 23” Long Wave Pony – which clips right over your own ponytail! This 23” Long Wave Pony features Tru2Life® heat-friendly synthetic hair that can be flat-ironed, curled or blown out, and has a long, smooth band of wrap-around hair that securely attaches with a hook-and-loop fastening strip for a look that’s seamless. ($59; Ulta and Ulta.com).

How-To: Advice For Fashion Start-ups

It might seem daunting setting up your own fashion business, but our advice can help!

 Featured Photo from H&M.com

Launching your own business can be very rewarding, but also very demanding. You’ll need to juggle many balls in order to get the business launched and trading successfully. Therefore, it’s important to do some thorough research and planning. With a large amount of competition out there, it’s essential to have a business strategy in place that is clear and on point.

Create a business plan

 

A business plan is like a personal roadmap, that outlines your goals, visions and objectives. It will be central to the business development and will be a helpful tool to measure progress and success.

You also need to work out how much finance you will need to set up and run the business until it starts generating income. Fees can include the cost of sample collection, marketing materials, professional fees, insurance and any deposits required for rent or utilities.

Plan your collection

 

It is tempting to get carried away when designing a collection of clothes or accessories, but for the first few seasons, it’s better to create a small focused section to target a specific group of people. Once you’ve built up a reputation and have a good sales history, you can expand the collection more.

You could hire an image model to model the clothes in photo shoots, as a way of promoting the range. Image models are beautiful women who have a unique charm, grace and energy and can adapt to any situation they are in. They look after themselves well and of course photograph well, so you would be able to have a collection of professional photographs ready for your clothes line.

 Check out competitors

 

Don’t be afraid to research and find out about your competitors, it helps to learn what other people in the market are doing and you can learn a lot from analyzing a competitors business model. It will help you to identify your USP and helps to give your business a slightly different edge to others in the industry.

Keep on top of your finances

 

Make sure to monitor your cash flow on a regular basis. Doing so well help you foresee any potential problems from happening and will give you time to find suitable solutions. Rather than being faced with a bill that you cannot pay.

Marketing

You’ll need all the help you can get, so it would be an innovative idea to join groups where you could meet people and forge collaborations with other like-minded people, such as designers, entrepreneurs, social media influencers and bloggers. Anyone that can help promote and get the word out for you about your brand is a big help. Always carry business cards with you to help build up a database of useful contacts, because you never know who you might meet!

Starting a fashion business isn’t easy, but if you feel passionate, are driven and have a clear vision, it can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling industries to work in.

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FIVE TIPS FOR HAVING A HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY from Lauren Smith Brody

For many of us, Mother’s Day means a bouquet of flowers, a heart-shaped box of chocolates, or—if we’re really lucky—a lovingly-and-slightly-burned breakfast in bed. And those things are all great!

But parenthood is all about making memories, and that traditional trifecta (flowers, candy, toast), can start to blur year to year. Studies have shown that experiencing new things for the first time together is very bonding—and memory-making. Every other day of the year, you’re the one teaching your kiddos how to do something you already know how to do. Why not share a completely new experience together? You’ll walk away with the gift that lasts longer than the hardiest construction paper heart: A real memory to treasure.

Featured Photo from SouthernLiving.com

Our phones are often an integral part of making memories—whether it’s calling our loved ones or taking photos. That’s why I’m teaming up with Total Wireless to talk about how to do Mother’s Day like a “boss.” Here are some unforgettable ideas:

  1. Create a family playlist and have a dance party.  The internet is your friend here. Choose a hit song from the birth year of every member of your family, from great-grandparents down to the baby, for a uniquely-yours mixtape. And then, obviously, dance! Or karaoke. Or both, your call.
  2. Move it! It doesn’t matter whether it’s a 5K race, a family yoga class, or an easy stroll around the block, a little exercise is good for everyone. Bonus points territory is ordering matching exercise gear (go ahead and be That Family). Search online for “custom t-shirts,” or do a deep dive into Etsy for inspiration. Yelp may have some suggestions for a local vendor too.
  3. Play food stylist. You know those time-lapse recipe videos? Why not try making one as a family? Best-case scenario, you’ll end up with shareable directions your little sous chefs can send to their friends. Worst case? You’ll have some messy laughs…and order in pizza.
  4. Dig in the dirt. It’s Mother Nature’s day too, after all, so honor her with a visit to a local garden, or plant one of your own. (Window boxes count if you live in an apartment like I do!) According to proflowers.com, May is the perfect time to plant roses, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and more.
  5. Set a hug alarm. Cheesiest idea on record…and yet, we dare you not to enjoy it. Most mornings of the year, your alarm is go-time for the morning rush/panic. Today, let everyone in the family set his or her own alarm on your phone for a family hug session. Don’t forget to reach out to your far-away family members. Video hugs and screen kisses count too.

Lauren Smith Brody is the founder of The Fifth Trimester movement to help businesses and families improve workplace culture together. Her book, The Fifth Trimester: The Working Mom’s Guide to Style, Sanity, and Big Success After Baby is just out from Doubleday. Prior to launching her own business, Lauren had a 16-year career in magazine publishing, most recently as the executive editor of Glamour magazine at Condé Nast, overseeing the magazine’s features, beauty, and fashion content, as well as brand and digital extensions and editorial events, including Glamour’s annual Women of the Year awards. She’s partnering with Total Wireless to share her “total boss mom” strategies—hectic schedule, two little boys, messy home, and all. Check out TotalWireless.com to learn more about their affordable plans and high-end smartphone selection.