New York City – Perfect Mini Weekend Break

If there’s one place that needs to be on your travel bucket list, it’s New York City. This is the one place that people from all over the world link to the United States. It features some of the most iconic sights, showcases some great unique neighborhoods and provides a striking backdrop for a fantastic weekend away. Of course, in an ideal world, most of us would have a lot longer than just a weekend to spend in New York City. But with a full time job to hold down, most of us are lucky to just get a few days of escape every couple of months. You might have shunned New York before and have put it down as being ‘too touristy’ or ‘too busy’. But, here are some reasons why we think it’s the perfect place for a weekend city break.

The travel system

Okay, so most people don’t pay attention to the local public transport when they are finding somewhere to go on vacation. But, when you only have a couple of days in one specific location, time is of the essence! Take an hour or so before your weekend away to familiarize yourself with the public transport system in and around New York City. As it is such as metropolitan place, it is relatively easy to get from one side of the city to the other on very reliable transport. You can travel by bus, by subway, by tram or even by boat down the Hudson River! If you are planning to travel quite extensively around the city while you are there, it may also be worth investing in a Metro Card. Plus, it would be a crime to visit New York and not take a ride in one of the famous yellow cabs – start practicing your hailing technique now!

The things to do


One thing is for sure: you’ll never be bored in New York City. There are way too many things to do to be able to get round them all in one weekend, so you will need to pick the very best to make the most of your time there. If you want a quiet, sophisticated activity that will take you away from the crowds of tourists, why not indulge in  wine tasting ny? Taking a stroll through Central Park is also a NY must-do, and if you want to go slightly off the beaten track, Brooklyn is a quirky neighborhood full of great independent eateries.

The places to stay

New York has some of the most diverse accommodation in the world, so you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to where to stay! If you like familiarity, you can simply choose one of the main international hotel chains that are within the city. Some of these are particularly close to the airports, which can come in useful when you don’t have much time to spend there. If you want something a little more individual, however, why not check out one of New York’s many famous hotels, or even stay at a bed and breakfast?

Collaborative Post

Dressing According To Your Body Type

Featured Red Pumps from Shoedazzle.com

Fashion can be a whimsical experience. There are a variety of accessories, fabrics, styles, and designs. But, one of the most important style tips is to dress according to your body type.  How can you discover your body type?  See the example below:

Knowing your body type allows you to purchase clothing based upon the direction of lines and patterns. It also serves as a guide when buying shapewear to camouflage targeted areas such as the  stomach, hips, or thighs.

The first step to dressing for your body type is to getting the right measurements and selecting your physical shape.  Your shape is either an Hourglass, Pear, Apple, Inverted Triangle, or Rectangle.

Another fashion tip is to find a style icon that’s based upon your body type and remix their wardrobe. For example, Jennifer Lopez is a “pear” and Queen Latifah has an “apple” shape.

 

Pear Body Type
Amazon – DREAM PAIRS Women’s D’Orsay Style Pointy Pumps Classic Stiletto

The next step is select clothing that will compliment those areas and wear accessories to accent the total look:

  1. Hourglass – Tailored Clothing, Cropped Jackets, Wrap Dress, Dark Colors, Pencil Skirts, and Mid-Rise Pants
  2. Pear – Bright Prints, Embellished Tops, Dark Colored Pants, Bold Earrings, and High Heels
  3. Apple – Plunging Neckline, Tunic Shirt, Tailored Blazers, and Platform Wedges
  4. Inverted Triangle –  Empire Waist Tops, Large Belts, Full Skirts, Boot cut Jeans, and Stilettos
  5. Rectangle – Flowy Tops, A-Line Skirts, Skinny Jeans, Flats, Heels, and Fitted Blazers.

Dressing according to your body type can be tricky but with the right attire you can have a timeless, capsule wardrobe.

Get The Look: Tracee Ross’s 2017 SAG Awards

How to Get the Look

Photo Credit: Screen Actors Guild Awards Red Carpet Fashion
  1. Start of by washing hair using Schwarzkopf GLISS™ Ultra Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner .
  2.  Next, blow dry the hair out prepping with Schwarzkopf got2b Guardian Angel Flat Iron Balm for a smooth finish.
  3. Add some Smooth ‘N Shine Instant Edge Smoothing Pomade to hair and use Mason Pearson brush to gather hair into the palms of your hands.
  4. Position ponytail right at the crown of the head securing with a hook rubber band. Add in extensions and create an elaborate fish tail braid for a sassy bohemian feel.
  5. Use Smooth ‘N Shine Polishing Instant Repair Hair Polisher to get rid of flyaways and finish off with Schwarzkopf got2b Glam Force Hairspray for a firm hold to complete the look!

 

Schwarzkopf GLISS™ Ultra Moisture SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

Daily stress can dry out your hair until it reaches a breaking point. It needs deep repair from the inside and surface reconstruction from the outside.

GLISS™ ULTRA MOISTURE

  1. Up to 85% less hair breakage
  2. Intense hydration
  3. Ultra moisturized hair with health shine

THE HAIR REPAIR SOLUTION WITH KERATIN CARE-19 COMPLEX

This creamy lathering shampoo formula contains a special complex with 19

INGREDIENTS and deeply repairs your hair for soft, healthy-looking hair and significantly less hair breakage.

5.49; target.com

Schwarzkopf got2b guardian angel flat iron balm

In a world where women battle with heat styling appliances daily, it’s reassuring to know that divine intervention is now available from göt2b guardian angel.  Developed with heavenly hair in mind, göt2b unlocks the secret to superior heat protection plus advanced styling support.  Each product is formulated with an innovative patented heat-activated polymer technology that delivers proven 425°F heat protection with a glossy finish.

$5.99; mass retailers

Schwarzkopf got2b Glam Force Hairspray

Tame your mane while you run wild with got2b glam force high hold hairspray. Our hairspray delivery system gives a fast and firm hold to keep you partying in style all night long.

$5.99; mass retailers

Smooth ‘N Shine Instant Edge Smoothing Pomade

Finally! The unruly hairs at the edges of your hairline are put in their place. Smooth ‘N Shine Instant Edge Smoothing Pomade controls and keeps fine hairs at the edge (nape and temple) in place. It’s formulated with a perfectly balanced blend of olive and tea tree oils for moisture, shine and stimulating feel, plus cosmetic surfactants that offer a sleeker, non-waxy feel. It provides long-lasting edge fixation and control.

$4.99; mass retailers

Smooth ‘N Shine Polishing Instant Repair Hair Polisher 

Concentrated polishing formula instantly makes hair soft, shiny and smooth. Conditions and detangles dry, damaged hair, eliminates frizzies and helps prevent breakage.

  • Makes hair soft, shiny & smooth
  • Conditions & detangles dry, damaged hair
  • With aloe vera

$4.99, mass retailers

 

 

 

MIXT Studio Trucker Hats and Kerry Washington

Paper and gift brand MIXT Studio, best known for printing free-spirited patterns on Tyvek bags and totes, introduced a trucker hat for the Women’s March two days before the event. MIXT founder, Marcie Carson, has been a longtime contributor to the women’s and humanitarian movement and created the iconic design for a local group of women. What started as a spontaneous I’m-going-to-do-this-for-my-friends was met with such enthusiasm and interest that the hats are now available as a commemoration of this historical event.

Award-winning actress Kerry Washington from the ABC drama, Scandal, sported the Trucker Hat on Saturday as she appeared with hundreds of thousands at the Women’s March in Los Angeles.

MIXT Studio Women’s March Trucker Hats can be purchased from the MIXT studio website mixtstudio.com.  Hats are $18 and available in 3 colors, #mixtmoxie.

ABOUT MIXT STUDIO:

Founded in 2012, MIXT Studio is a lifestyle brand created by esteemed designer Marcie Carson. The word “MIXT” is derived from the company’s eclectic design approach, which includes a wild mix of pattern, texture and color. Marcie and her team have garnered honor and respect in the industry. She has won hundreds of design and marketing awards throughout her career and her work has been recognized by publishers such as Taschen, Rockport and Graphis. Not only was she Madonna’s costume assistant, but her resume is packed with influential clients such as Getty, BMW, Disney, UCLA, Dole, Mattel, Hilton, the Academy and Grammy awards. In 2006, Marcie was selected by the U.S. Department of Labor as an occupational expert for graphic design. Now Marcie focuses on creating beautifully designed products.

Everything that leaves MIXT Studio follows Marcie’s commitment to a clear conscience and good karma.

 

Follow Us:

#mixtmoxie #mixtstudio

Web: www.mixtstudio.com

FB:  http://m.facebook.com/MIXTstudio

Instagram: @mixtstudio

Unusual Things to do in Santorini – Unique Travel Aspects

Santorini is a stunning Greek Island on the Aegean Sea just 200 kilometers from the mainland of Greece. Noted for its out of this world beauty, white buildings and churches topped with blue roofs; it is a city that you would expect to find in the best myths and fairy tales.

Although Santorini is a classic holiday town with sun, sand and blue seas as far as the eye can see, not to mention the luxurious Santorini Villas that are dotted around the island, there is much more to the place that meets the eye. So, if you are looking to do something a bit more unusual than topping up your tan on your next Santorini holiday, you might want to check out the following:

The Medieval Village of Emporio

The definition of quaint, Emporio is one of the places you absolutely must visit on your travels in Santorini. The village, which is perched above the popular Perivolos beach, is home to some of the most impressive medieval architecture in the world, including a particularly impressive castle, which is arguably the most interesting on the island.

Go in Search of the Santorini Vampires

You won’t find many packing tips that suggest you bring a stake, but if you’re traveling to Santorini, it might be a good idea.

If it’s unusual you’re after; you can’t beat the story of the Santorini Vampires. What few people know is that Santorini is thought to be home to more vampires than Transylvania. Legend has it that the bodies of Greeks who were considered to be creatures of the night were transported to the island, where they were buried a safe distance away from the mainland. 

So, if you’re a budding Buffy or a Van Helsing in training, a trip to Santorini could be your chance to finally come face to face with the foe!

Visit a Volcano

If you laugh danger in the face and you love nothing more than showing off just how brave you are to your mates, take a trip to Amoudi Bay, where you can plunge from the top of a huge boulder into the warm, clear seas of the Mediterranean.

With so much to do and see in Santorini, it is easy to miss out on the more unique and unusual aspects of the island. However, it is well worth seeking out odd experiences as they are often the experiences you remember the most about your holidays, rather than the usual sunbathing and partying, which you can do almost anywhere.

 

Collaborative Post

Share the Love | Valentine’s Day Gifts from ALEX and ANI

The heart is all power – body, mind, and spirit. The pulse of life never skips a beat, propelling our lives with love. Harness the power of the Heart of Strength to bring fortitude to your life and to those around you. Love connects us and makes us invincible – love makes us strong.

The new Heart of Strength bangle is the perfect way to share the love this season by giving back to a great cause.

The bangle is $38 and ALEX AND ANI will contribute 20% of the purchase price to Global Fund to fight AIDS with (RED)®. It is available now at www.alexandani.com.

Discovering Your Personal Style

Recently, I’ve added style photos to my social media feed.  I wanted to share my personal style, which is categorized as chic and modern.

This leads me to the topic for the blog post. How can someone discover his or her personal style? Essentially it’s about self-awareness and understanding your clothing preferences. The definition of style is, “a distinctive appearance, typically determined by the principles according to which something is designed.”

The first step to discovering your personal style is identifying a style icon. Do you prefer the total appearance of Lady Gaga or Michelle Obama?  Grab a few magazines and create a stylebook.

The next action is to visit your closet and examine pieces you have worn on numerous occasions.  This could be a fedora hat or cardigan sweater.  Are those items complimenting your features and body type (circle, triangle, hourglass, rectangle)?

Rebecca Minkoff

Consider your lifestyle and occupation when curating your wardrobe.  A corporate executive should invest in a high quality suit; same concept applies for weekly Pilates sessions.

Accessories are the best assets for discovering your personal style.  They allow you to change a look without purchasing new clothing.  A classic wristwatch can upgrade an inexpensive blouse.

Ultimately, it’s about feeling great and presenting yourself in a positive manner!

H&M Large Earrings

Quick Wardrobe Tips:

  •  Invest in alterations for ill-fitting items
  •  Use the dry-cleaners sparingly – can damage clothing fibers
  •  Spend extra money on work shoes, blazers, jeans, bras, suiting, and outerwear
  •  Find unique pieces at consignment or thrift shops

 

Valentine’s Day Made Easy with ALEX AND ANI, Jordache, PINK and more

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, too often we forget that it is supposed to be fun and stress free! Whether you’re spending the day (and night) with a significant other or celebrating with a Galentine’s Day brunch, put together a sexy ensemble with pieces from Heidi Klum Intimates, Sarah Flint, Jordache, ALEX AND ANI, and Victoria’s Secret PINK.

I’ve also included easy gifting options, because sometimes you need a little something extra with those flowers!

America’s Next Top Model Season 23 – Episode 3 Recap

Last night on America’s Next Top Model the contestants received their signature makeovers.  Cast members were encouraged to be comfortable with their bodies; participating in a nude photo shoot with renown photographer Ellen Von Unwerth.

 

 

Everyone did not have the same level of enthusiasm while others embraced their new hair change. According to the panelist, Courtney, Tash, and Paige had the best model makeovers.

Cherish was uncomfortable with the challenge; refusing to dye her hair.  She was eliminated due to the awkwardness of her challenge photos.

Next week contestants will learn “key steps” to social media branding from DJ Khaled and Jasmine Sanders.

COVERGIRL SO LASHY! BLASTPRO MASCARA – Morning Routine

COVERGIRL has a new Lash Equality campaign.  I like this campaign because makeup has no boundaries or restrictions.  It’s simply about using a product to enhance the physical appearance.  Makeup also has internal healing properties. There are several individuals that purchase cosmetics for corrective purposes (such as skin deformities) or cancer patients that suffer from the side-effects of chemotherapy.

Due to the previous reasons, I am an advocate for wearing makeup and finding the right product.  Many people are not aware that I have eczema – inflammation of the skin.  As a child, my mother taught me proper skincare techniques and (how-to) use makeup to protect my face from environmental impurities.

My three-step morning routine is:

  1. Use a facial scrub
  2. Apply a moisturizer – a must do
  3. Beauty Blend (in a T-formation) on my face COVERGIRL Custom Blend Foundation

My last step is to complete the look with a voluminous mascara.  The COVERGIRL SO LASHY!  BLASTPRO MASCARA has a three-in-one brush; allowing beauty enthusiast to reach eyelash.  Some of the other mascara wands won’t reach every hair and can create a smudge effect.  This is not the case with SO LASHY!  BLASTPRO MASCARA!  Try it for yourself and pick-up a tube at Target.

Pro Tip: apply more than one coat for volume