The Perfect Summer Bag without Breaking the Bank

Summer days are meant to be carefree, but that doesn’t mean you can drop the ball on your warm weather essentials. Swap out your heavy leather tote for something fun, flirty and made to travel with – Krafty Chix! Whether you want to soak up the sun with a Stylish Summer Tote or stay cool with a clutch in hand, prep for a season of fun and flair with the several styles from Krafty Chix.

It’s easy to get carried away with all the different summer styles. Ditch the competition and check out the 6 Krafty Chix bags that will get you from day to play this summer:

Stylish Summer TotesSearching for a summer tote? Look no further! This perfect print fits all your essentials while staying fun and fashionable in bright summer hues and quatrefoil designs. Mix and match your tote and thread colors to create a style all your own!

Seersucker ClutchPair this positively preppy clutch with jeans and a tee or a sundress. Whether you dress it up or down, this cute clutch made of seersucker fabric and faux lather is a timeless look. A great bridesmaid gift for spring or summer weddings, this clutch is available in various colors. Available in 5 color choices, customized with your initial or monogram. 

 Seersucker Tote: The new hot trend this summer, this Seersucker tote is just the perfect addition to your wardrobe. Great for everyday use and for your trips to the pool, the beach, or even the boat – be summer ready with this warm weather bag.

 Pineapple Tote: This trendy, tropical tote will be the pineapple of your eye all summer long! Add a touch of whimsy with the perfect fun, fruity bag that brings color, sparkle and shine to your outfit. Available in your choice of Black or Ivory. 

 Glam & Glitter Clutch: Do you love a little glitter and glam? An essential for all our glitter girls who love some sparkle, this clutch is perfect for a summer night out.

 Monogram Scallop Clutch: Beautiful and classy with a touch of scallop style. The perfect summer party purse, this clutch will hold all your everyday essentials – a must-have for your closet!

All totes and bags are embroidered with traditional, custom monograms and range in price from $9.99-$80.00 

Are you on the hunt for your next it bag? Cure your summer bag fever with Krafty Chix, a brand that crafts vibrant, sophisticated designs just for you!

ABOUT KRAFTYCHIX

In March 2013, KraftyChix was born from a need to raise money for a trip down under and a love of scrapbooking. With humble beginnings selling at craft fairs to friends and family, KraftyChix broadened their reach with an online shop that makes and sells handmade craft items. Dedicated to delivering super cute creations, the success of KraftyChix has allowed the Krafty Crew, a former rocket scientist, and accountant, to quit their jobs and focus on bringing fresh, new favorites to the everyday chick.

 

Berta Bridal Launch from Raffaele Ciuca

On the first of June Melbourne bridal retailer Raffaele Ciuca launched the stunning MUSE by BERTA collection to Melbourne, Australia. The evening was an intimate affair in their High Street, Armadale Bridal Emporium and brought together and showcased the best talent in Australia’s bridal industry.

The beauty look for the evening was synonymous with Berta’s signature bronze palette and was re-created by a team of makeup artists from the NATIONAL ACADEMY OF BEAUTY. Hair was styled by Kristina Youseff of KYK HAIR in loose tresses parted in the centre then adorned with VIKTORIA NOVAK crowns.

Upon arrival guest were greeted with a pomegranate ginger palomas served by waiters in tuxedos and black velvet bowties.

Canapés of black rice crisp, ocean trout, salmon pearls, celery cress.  Seared Port Phillip Bay scallop, coconut and sweet pumpkin, salsify and shiso and camomile tea smoked quail taro chip, quince relish roamed the room on mirrored trays.

Guests were treated to a two course dinner and a MUSE inspired take home dessert  designed by Lisa Van Zanten Executive Pastry Chef of ATLANTIC GROUP.

Guests were invited to Melbourne Meets Muse with a unique pairing, but beautifully luxe unification, of black on black invitations. The rich foiling of the text grasping their attention and carrying on to the menus. Created by the talented team at GIANT INVITATIONS.

The luxe marble dining table ran the length of the Armadale Bridal Emporium between rows of wedding gowns. Each place setting was dressed with precision, featuring all black plates, cutlery and napkins all hand- selected by HARRY THE HIRER.

The smell of fresh peonies was in the air… every surface in the store has been covered in rich, dark floral arrangements by BABYLON FLOWERS and burning candles creating a wintery and romantic mood.

Queenstown Premium Outlets new site for Size NorthAmerica

Queenstown Premium Outlets announced today a new way for shoppers to stop, save and support local military! Size NorthAmerica is the most extensive measurement survey project in North America and its newest scanning location opened for Queenstown Premium Outlets guests on Thursday, June 1. When participating in the survey, shoppers will have their body measurements and proportions taken to help create more accurate sizing for service men and women’s uniforms. This new comprehensive survey is designed to capture changes in recent years for more precise fittings and enhanced comfort. Data is being collected across the United States and Canada from 18,000 men, women and children to create new measurement standards.

Open to shoppers ages six to 75, participants will be scanned in four different postures to ensure accuracy. Garments required for the scan will be provided by Size NorthAmerica, courtesy of Hanes Brands. As a special thank you, patrons will also have a chance to save with coupons and gift cards, including Queenstown Premium Outlets’ top brands, including adidas, Gap Factory, Hanes Brands and VF Outlet.

“We’re honored to be part of this monumental campaign, as it benefits troops nationally, including those from right here at home,” said Patricia Cahall, general manager of Queenstown Premium Outlets. “It’s a win-win: shoppers donate a few minutes for the betterment of the military and are rewarded with savings on the season’s stylish looks for a variety of our sought-after brands!”

With the help of innovative private software, data obtained will be stored anonymously and then processed to meet the demands of the military apparel industry, as well as automotive, retail and other equipment related industries. North American body measurements and proportions have changed considerably in recent decades, as has the demographic structure of the U.S. and Canada. The anthropometric data and standard size tables that are currently available derive from old data and can therefore only help the industry in a limited way.

“Every man, woman and child between the ages of six to 75 is welcomed and encouraged to participate in the survey,” says Tim Guenzel, project manager for Size NorthAmerica at Human Solutions of North America, Inc. “We are looking for volunteers who are willing to be measured using our state-of-the-art 3D body scanners. The data collected will be used to develop up-to-date size tables for the apparel industry and virtual body mannequins for the automotive industry.”

The Size NorthAmerica survey is powered by Human Solutions, which has almost 20 years of experience in the field of body measurements, along with an expert team of ergonomics and anthropometrical specialists. This globally powerful technology has proven itself during large serial measurement surveys in Germany, Italy, France, Sweden, China, Spain and many other countries. With the help of Queenstown Premium Outlet shoppers, this confidential survey initiative is expected to garner wide participation and provide the country’s bravest men and women with improved technology, apparel and equipment.

For more information on Size NorthAmerica or to participate in the survey, please visit sizenorthamerica.com.

Ride the Waves with Bed Head this Summer

The beach isn’t the only place you can enjoy the waves this summer. With Bed Head’s exclusive Waver Tools, you can create envious waves anywhere you go.

The A Wave We Go Waver and the Wave Artist have endless possibilities for luscious waves, whether you desire a tousled, loose, or defined look. With tourmaline ceramic technology, you can expect soft, shiny waves are bound to turn heads. Get ready to ride the waves with Bed Head!

A Wave We Go Tourmaline Ceramic Adjustable Waver (MSRP: $39.99) The Bed Head A Wave We Go Tourmaline Ceramic Adjustable Waver lets you take control of your waves by rotating the adjustable barrel to the exact level of wave you want. Available at Ulta.com, Target.com, Amazon.com.

Wave Artist Tourmaline Ceramic Deep Waver (MSRP: $29.99) For distinctive masterfully sculpted waves that has everyone talking, the Bed Head Wave Artist Tourmaline Ceramic Deep Waver turns your hair into a work of art with softer, shinier waves without frizz.

 

The Tony Awards 2017: Top Looks for Red Carpet

The Tony Awards 2017 presented a night of glamorous, high fashion. A few of the designers seen on the red carpet were Michael Kors, Naeem Khan, and Oscar De La Renta.

This unique awards event recognized the achievements of those in the field of Broadway.  See photos from the red carpet below:

The Westin Jackson Announces its Luxury, Resort-Style Soul Spa

Wischermann Partners, Inc. is thrilled to announce today the spa concept for The Westin Jackson, opening early August 2017 in the heart of downtown Jackson. Soul Spa, The Westin Jackson’s newest luxurious spa and the only spa ESPA provider in the state of Mississippi, will offer guests and locals an extensive array of services and amenities including massages, facials, body treatments and nail services upon opening.

“Soul Spa is the perfect combination of a thoughtful, resort-concept design in an ultra-urban setting,” says Mike Burton, general manager of The Westin Jackson. “This new element of The Westin Jackson will be another highly sought-after destination in Jackson for relaxation and wellness, and we are excited to share Soul Spa with the community and our guests.”

An oasis of beauty and tranquility, Soul Spa will offer guests the highest quality services within a modern and sophisticated urban setting.  Soul Spa will consist of seven treatment rooms, manicure and pedicure stations adjacent to the reception area, sauna, experience showers and an outdoor courtyard with a whirlpool.  The spa is partnered with United Kingdom-based ESPA to carry their premier product line, and is the only ESPA provider in Mississippi. ESPA has pioneered the science of natural beauty in a potent collection of radically effective formulations featuring products derived from essential oils, plant extracts and marine actives at the hands of highly trained professionals.

“We are delighted to be opening Jackson’s newest downtown oasis, Soul Spa,” said Paul Wischermann, President and CEO of Wischermann Partners, Inc. “Whether you are looking to indulge in a full spa day experience, or are in need of a quick service in between meetings, Soul Spa’s world-class service caters to the needs of Jackson visitors and locals.”

Guests and locals can deeply unwind with the ultimate 110-minute stress-relieving Signature Body treatment, featuring a full body exfoliation, facial cleanse and individually tailored massage with warm aromatherapy oils. The EPIC Life-Stage Facial allows guests to turn back years in just 80 minutes as the results-driven facial instantly works to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, restores elasticity and returns skin to a more youthful appearance. This ESPA signature facial includes the exclusive SkinVision™ UV lamp analysis, deep-brush cleanse, Skin Radiance Mask, contouring facial massage techniques, Lifting & Smoothing Mask, scalp massage, and Life-Stage intensive serums and moisturizers. Couples can find the perfect way to escape in Soul Spa’s exclusive couple’s room for the Signature Couples treatment. After enjoying the sauna or outdoor whirlpool, couples can melt away tension with body brushing and exfoliation to first smooth and soften skin, followed by an indulgent massage using nourishing essential oils and warmed volcanic stones, and finished with a comforting scalp massage and gentle stretching.

Light food and beverage fare will be available in the relaxation room and outdoor courtyard during spa operating hours and will focus on fresh, healthy and revitalizing foods along with a daily selection of fruit smoothies. A selection of champagne and wine will also be available for those guests looking to relax with an alcoholic beverage including bachelorette parties, couple’s treatments and festive weekend getaways. Non-hotel guests visiting the spa will also be given complimentary valet parking and access to the WestinWorkout facility and indoor pool.

For more information, please visit http://www.westinjackson.com/.

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About The Westin Jackson

The Westin Jackson, set to open in early August 2017, offers 12,000 square feet of highly functional meeting space and 203 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites. Featuring a unique wine bar & bistro restaurant concept and state-of-the-art spa, The Westin Jackson will celebrate the history and culture of Jackson, MS, also known as the birthplace of America’s music. Marking the brand’s debut in the state, The Westin Jackson will be ideally located in the heart of downtown Jackson and within walking distance to the Mississippi Museum of Art, the Federal Courthouse, the Planetarium and the historic music and arts theatre, Thalia Mara Hall. Also within one block from the hotel, the Jackson Convention Complex features over 300,000 square feet of flexible meeting and exhibit space for convention attendees.

 

 

 

 

 

Essence Festival 2017 – Media Passes & Lineup

Essence Festival 2017 is only a few weeks away and we have received official media passes.  What does that mean?  Style + Life + Fashion will share behind the scenes style photos, celebrity interviews, and video clips.

Aside from real-time micro blogging via social media (don’t forget to follow the hashtag #EssenceFestSLF ) there will be an official event recap sharing details from the Beauty and Style Expo, Entertainment Access, and much more.

The 2017 Lineup will include:

If you like this post, click here – What To Wear:  6 Tips For Music Festival Season

Belle de Brillet Summertime Sippers

From BBQs to days at the pool, summer is the ultimate time to entertain. Make a statement at your next gathering by using interesting, versatile spirits to create delicious cocktails for your guests.

One spirit to try at your next get-together is the award winning Belle de Brillet, the original Pear Williams & Brillet Cognac Liqueur, produced by the 10th generation family-owned Maison Brillet. Located in the heart of the Cognac region, Belle de Brillet (SRP $25.99 in a 375ml or SRP $45.99 in a 750ml ) is a pear liqueur produced through the infusion of Brillet cognac with the essence of Williams Pears, produced mainly in the east of France. The liqueur is served in an elegant pear-shaped bottle, which will add charm to your summer spread.

“Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur provides a wonderful natural sweetness. I like to use it in place of sugar or simple syrup; the fresh pear flavors and aromas combine with the cognac mouthfeel is a delicious addition to many favorite summertime cocktails,” explains NYC-based Mixologist Jaime Rios.  Listed below are three specialty cocktails created by Jaime to beat the heat and kick off your summer entertaining. Each recipe can be easily prepared ahead of time for guests and can be paired with summer salads, seafood dishes and light BBQ, or enjoyed on its own.

  • Belle of the Ball
  • 1.5 oz. Belle de Brillet Liqueur
  • 1.0 oz. Light Rum
  • 0.75 oz. Lime Juice
  • 3 Raspberries
  • Club Soda
  • Sprig of Rosemary
  • Add raspberries, ice and alcohol ingredients into a shaker. Shake and strain into a highball with fresh ice. Top with club soda. Garnish with rosemary sprig.
  • Brilliant Belle
  • 1.0 oz. Belle de Brillet Liqueur
  • 0.5 oz. Lime Juice
  • 1.5 oz. Premium Vodka
  • 0.25 oz. Green Chartreuse
  • 3 dashes Orange Bitters
  • 3 Red Grapes
  • 1 Basil Leaf
  • Muddle red grapes and a basil leaf in a shaker then add all ingredients. Shake and evenly strain to the rim of the martini glass. Garnish with basil leaf.
  • Summer in the City
  • 1.0 oz. Belle de Brillet Liqueur
  • 0.5 oz. Lime Juice
  • 2.0 oz. Joto Junmai Sake
  • Cucumber Slices
  • Mint Leaves
  • Muddle cucumber and mint and add all ingredients with ice into tin shaker. Shake and strain into a highball glass with crushed ice. Garnish with mint sprig and cucumber.

 

7 Do’s for a Sexy Decolletage

For women of all ages, sallow, dull, or creppy skin can make the chest area or décolletage appear older than it is. Factor in side-sleeping where for hours at a time, your breasts are at battle with gravity leading to deeper lines in the neck and chest. Luckily, there are advancements and solutions available to bring back the glow to the beautiful feminine décolletage. Dr. Lenny Hochstein, world renowned board-certified plastic surgeon based in Miami, Florida and owner of the city’s newest state-of-the-art Hochstein MedSpa, and his team of licensed aestheticians, offer insights on how to achieve and maintain a sexy décolletage.

  1. Go topical.

There are plenty of things women can do to prevent chest area skin from aging such as applying high-quality, medical-grade skin care products. There are plenty of wrinkle creams on the market. The key is to look for ones with alpha and beta hydroxy acids, retinol, Vitamin C and E, and growth factors. These will reduce the appearance of wrinkles. “This is great for prevention and maintenance. Using creams in your 20’s and 30’s really does help skin retain elasticity and its ability to produce collagen,” explains Larisa Belyakova, Hochstein MedSpa licensed aesthetician.

  1. Consider lasers.

Lasers will certainly offer that healthy glow, since they are the most powerful tool to address both discoloration and texture imperfections.

“One of the lasers we have had success with in the chest region is the HALO treatment, the world’s first hybrid fractional laser. It’s strong! Results to skin tone and texture are visible after the first treatment,” explains Dr. Lenny Hochstein who prides himself on being incredibly selective about the results-driven treatments he offers. “The HALO is a type of a fractional laser which allows us to obtain optimal results with reduced healing time,” he adds.

There are other options as well. “The other device used for chest rejuvenation is called BBL (broad band light). This treatment is the most effective on the market for clearing up sun damage spots and reducing redness,” adds Jenya Titova, Hochstein’s certified Physician’s Assistant who vast expertise in lasers spans 12 years.

An issue of concern to women are stretch marks to the breast area. “Another laser often used on the chest area is E-matrix. This technology reduces the appearance of scars and stretch marks on the breast,” Jenya adds.

  1. Try a chemical peel and/or a microdermabrasion.

If the skin itself is supple, microdermabrasion could work very well to address skin elasticity, texture, tone and overall appearance. It’s a less expensive option than lasers. Chemical peels work at the cellular level, smoothing the fine lines in the chest area with very little downtime. There are varying strengths available so it is very important to have an experienced person administer peels. Microdermabrasion and peels are usually recommended in packages of 3 or 4, performed several weeks apart.

 

  1. Hydrafacial

 

This is of the newest treatments that brings out the healthy radiance and glow to the skin of the décolletage area. “It is a high- tech equipment operated procedure that includes several steps, such as deep cleansing, exfoliation, antiaging light treatment and application of powerful antioxidants. Well hydrated and nourished skin on the chest is the immediate and lasting result of this treatment,” explains Hochstein MedSpa Licensed aesthetician, Capri Colello.

 

  1.  Micro-needling

 

Micro-needling is a process where a small roller is rolled over the skin creating tiny punctures in the top skin layer. This phase of the treatment triggers a wound healing response in the body. Collagen levels are boosted as the skin regenerates itself leading to skin thickening, scars fading and smoothing of fine lines. Peptides and antioxidant serums are applied and massaged into the skin at the end. “What’s interesting to note about micro-needling is that the skin is essentially put into a healing, rejuvenation mode lasting for several months after the first session takes place. Skin looks better over time. To maintain results it’s advised to repeat the treatment at least 3-4 times,” advises Hochstein.

  1. PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)

Microneedling described above, can be enhanced with a very powerful collagen building treatment using your own plasma. “The treatment requires that we draw a small blood sample to extract the concentrated platelet cells out of it. These cells have a natural ability of healing by building new elastic and collagen layer. Fine lines and wrinkles on the chest respond wonderfully to this procedure, with no discomfort, side effects or downtime” says Dr. Hochstein.

  1. Get smart about sunscreen.

Regardless of what treatment option you choose optimal skin protection is key. “You go through a series of treatments. The last thing you want to do is damage skin and get into this cycle of damage, treat, damage treat,” explains Dr. Hochstein. “You can’t invest $6000 on skin treatments and think a $9.00 bottle of basic sunscreen is going to protect you,” he adds. Any physician will suggest using a sunscreen that offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. “The best results are found when the patient ‘protects the procedure’ and takes preventative measures recommended by their skin care professional,” he recommends.

About the experts:

Dr. Lenny Hochstein is a board certified plastic surgeon in Miami, Florida. World renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, symmetry and overall excellence, including published scientific papers, awards, early entry directly into medical school where he graduated valedictorian; Dr. Hochstein has two decades of experience, over 23,000 surgeries with breast augmentation as his main specialty. His dual accreditation of American Board of Plastic Surgery and American Society of Plastic Surgeons speaks to his high standards and reputation of providing exceptional care to all his patients. In 2017, Dr. Lenny Hochstein added Hochstein MedSpa to his Miami practice to offer lesser invasive treatments and anti-aging solutions adhering to the same values of high standards and quality. Anyone selected to be on his team must be exceptional, credentialed and committed to offering excellent care.

Jenya Titova, board certified Physician Assistant with 12 years of experience in aesthetic field, is Dr. Hochstein’s right hand at Hochstein MedSpa. She is highly skilled in areas of laser medicine and injectable treatments. His wonderful licensed aestheticians, Larisa Belyakova and Capri Colello are also great assets of his skin care team, delivering personalized, quality-driven approach to their patients.