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DVD Rack

  • : Revolutionary Road

    Revolutionary Road

    As far as I'm concerned, this was the best movie of 2008. Sure, Slumdog Millionaire had the whole Little-Engine-That-Could aura about it, but it was such a singular story whereas Revolutionary Road grapples themes to which almost anyone can relate. I've heard some critics say that this is a film about middle class angst, but I disagree — it's about the fallacy of the suburban fantasy, about the dangers of complacency and the regret that comes from dreams deferred.

    Kate Winslet is brilliant as April Wheeler, a 1950s housewife living in the suburbs of Connecticut and raising her two children with husband Frank Wheeler (Leonardo DiCaprio). The film kicks off when the two first meet, both harboring dreams of living extraordinary, memorable lives — Frank muses about how folks in Paris truly know how to appreciate life and how he wishes he could settle over there, while April discusses her hopes of becoming a successful actress. But these dreams are put on hold after the newlyweds have their first child. Wanting to create a "stable" household for their family, they buy a house in the suburbs and Frank accepts a job as a salesman at the same company where his father once worked. Almost a decade later, their "temporary" suburban lifestyle has become a permanent one. Both have allowed the years to pass them by, becoming complacent with simply going through the motions instead of living life to the fullest and chasing their passions. In the meanwhile, they've grown to resent one another, holding each other responsible for their respective feelings of emptiness.

    Determined to change the course of their lives, April suggests they move to Paris, that they start their lives over in a new place. For a moment, the spark in her eyes is restored and his boyish optimism returns, but will they really have the courage to follow the plan or will they think twice when others mock them and call their plan unrealistic?

    It's such a common conundrum. How many people find themselves stunted by social norms, by notions of what the "responsible" thing to do is? How many people put their dreams on pause and forget to press the "play" button again? That's the brilliance of this film: it tackles these issues with grace and subtlety, and the result is a riveting cinematic masterpiece that will prompt you to do your own soul-searching.

    (*****)

  • : Confessions of a Shopaholic (Two-Disc Special Edition + Digital Copy)

    Confessions of a Shopaholic (Two-Disc Special Edition + Digital Copy)

    Given all the hoopla surrounding this title (and everyone heralding Isla Fisher as some Debra Messing-meets-Sarah Jessica Parker comedic queen), I expected a way more memorable and satisfying film. To say that Confessions of A Shopaholic fell short of my expectations would be a massive understatement. Considering it's a film about a shopaholic, there's actually very little shopping done in the film (ironic, I know), so don't expect many eye candy shots of gorgeous couture and chic boutiques (the most you'll get is the green scarf that becomes a part of Fisher's character's writing pseudonym) and a very brief scene inside a Prada boutique. And, while much was discussed about Patricia Fields and her work as the film's costume designer, this is no SATC and Becky Bloomwood (Isla Fisher) is no Carrie Bradshaw. Considering she manages to rack up over 12k in debt due to her credit card abuse, I expected her outfits to stop traffic at every turn — but, truth be told, there's nothing too unique about the fashions spotted in the film (the outfits are neither better nor worse than what you would've seen on Dirty Sexy Money or Lipstick Jungle). So let's start with one of the main viewing dilemmas: a heroine with a spending problem and no cute fashions to show for it. What kind of nonsense is THAT?

    Now, let's move on to the storyline. The film kicks off with Becky Bloomwood, a young journalist with champagne tastes (and parents who prefer to keep more of a McDonald's budget), rushing to an interview a fashion magazine. But when she finds out the job has been filled, she instead vies for a position at a savings publication (hoping she can later transfer to the fashion pub). The whole manner through which she lands a job at a financial magazine is just bogus — waltzing into an interview without ever actually being called in, bombing the face-to-face interview, and then managing to change her boss's mind with a shoe-related piece with a financial subtext that accidentally lands on his desk (really, what are the odds an E.I.C. would have even personally opened a letter from a disappointing interview candidate?). It's beyond unrealistic — as a twenty-something writer, she'd be pushing papers and fetching coffee for her boss, not penning her own column and becoming some sort of expert financial journo (not to mention that savings articles aren't exactly sexy attention grabbers). In a predictable plot twist, romantic feelings develop between Becky and her boss, but their relationship is threatened because of some of the secrets Becky is keeping (such as her financial irresponsibility and the fact that a psycho creditor is literally stalking her).

    In the end, this movie is meant to have a redemptive message about the dangers of overspending, the inability to buy happiness, and the need to treasure the important, invaluable things in life (family, friends, relationships, etc.). Unfortunately, the journey to that sugary end isn't exactly charming, quirky or even particularly funny. Fisher is at her best when doing physical comedy, but she lacks a certain relatability — which, in turn, makes her dialogue fall flat (even when it's laden with cutesy jokes and wannabe clever one-liners). The fact that she keeps falling in and out of her Australian accent also keeps viewers from completely connecting to her character. But, in her defense, she is working with a cheesy, predictable, dull script. All in all, you'll hardly be addicted to Confessions.

    (**)

  • : Spinning into Butter

    Spinning into Butter

    Sarah Jessica Parker plays Sarah Daniels, the Dean of Students, in this drama about racism at a supposedly liberal college in New England. When a black student becomes the target of a hate crime (he receives a venomous anonymous note with threatening language and racial slurs), Daniels is tapped to lead the investigation — and to calm students' anxieties (a Herculean task). Of course, Daniels can't do much to properly address the issue given that the administration's main preoccupation is covering up the events that transpired so as to maintain a "positive" image for potential applicants. A mandated discussion about race turns into a one-sided monologue, with the school's administration spewing PR-friendly rhetoric about unity and acceptance, angering the entire student body. And, when a reporter starts snooping around, the atmosphere becomes even more tense, as school administrators scurry about, trying to block his access to the student body and pretending everything is business-as-usual. As the drama unfolds, we start to learn all the racial prejudices everyone bears — including Dean Daniels herself.

    Sarah Jessica Parker is a fish out of water in this film, drifting into Carrie Bradshaw-esque behavior every so often. Beau Bridges and Miranda Richardson also give subpar performances. But the main issue is the haphazard manner in which both the script and the actual film were thrown together. Though the film hopes to spark an honest and nuanced discussion about race (and the extent to which people who consider themselves liberal and open-minded still, oftentimes, harbor racial prejudices deep inside), it doesn't quite reach its goal. The depiction of how the students react to the tense atmosphere is ridden with clichés and the dialogue feels forced and unrealistic. Victor Rasuk, for example, plays a Nuyorican student who is torn over receiving a scholarship because, in order to do so, he would have had to check the box "Hispanic" (instead of "Latino") or describe his ethnicity as "Puerto Rican" (as opposed to "Nuyorican"). Yes, the way these government forms (starting with the census) fail to acknowledge the mixed racial heritage of Latinos is a huge problem, and many Latinos (including myself) find the term Hispanic problematic. But, that being said, I don't know a single Nuyorican who would turn down a scholarship because he/she was asked to pencil in "Puerto Rican" under ethnicity. It's almost like they didn't even bother consulting any people of color while putting together this film! And, of course, in the end, we're supposed to still believe in the almighty white woman with the heart of gold (cue gagging sound). See, viewers eventually discover Dean Daniels' own racial hang-ups — but, apparently, the producers couldn't have us disliking good ol' SJP, so they threw together a ridiculous ending meant to depict her as a changed, enlightened, likable woman (yeah, right!).

    Spinning into Butter? More like spinning into chaos.

    (*)

  • : Guns

    Guns

    I'm sure this movie could be worse — I just don't know how. The mere fact that this travesty goes on for nearly three hours is unforgivable — movies as magnificent as The Curious Case of Benjamin Button barely get away with clocking those kind of lengths, so imagine a movie that barely makes it onto the DVD rack!

    Besides the length, the main problem with GUNS is that it aims absurdly high and hence falls horrifically short. Mainly, the director tries to create a Traffic-esque storyline, where audiences can see how the gun trade affects a vast array of people from different walks of life — there's ruthless, greedy arms dealer (Paul Duguid) and his son knucklehead son Bobby (Gregory Smith), who manages to get his naive girlfriend Frances (Elisha Cuthbert) into a web of trouble; there's a mother who loses her toddler daughter to a stray bullet when a shoot-out breaks out in a sidewalk; there are various politicians vying for votes and tailoring their stance on gun control accordingly; there's Ford Saunders (Lyriq Bent), a police officer trying to discover who is responsible for bringing all these weapons into the state; there's Derek (K.C. Collins), a promising high school student who, due to family connections, still has one foot planted in the streets; and more. Sure, the idea of showcasing the nuances of the gun trade and the ways in which firearms permeate our society is genius, but doing so in a believable and aptly complex manner presents quite the challenge — and this film fails epically. There's little character development, the writing is superficial, the dialogue trite, and the connections between characters strained (not to mention the sub par acting).

    Too long with this movie, and even the most avid anti-gun activist will feel the urge to shoot the screen.

    (*)

  • : Taken (Single-Disc Extended Edition)

    Taken (Single-Disc Extended Edition)

    Liam Neeson takes no prisoners in this exhilarating, shadowy, and often seedy action flick. The premise is simple enough: Neeson plays Bryan Miller, a US mercenary (or a "preventor," as he refers to himself) who abandons his career in order to move closer to his teen daughter, Kimmy, from whose life he's been absent due to his constant work responsibilities. His ex-wife Lenore (played by Famke Janssen), meanwhile, has remarried a wealthy man and treats Bryan with contempt and resentment. These strained relationships, however, are established early on in the film (and, thankfully, without too much melodrama) and mainly work to show the lengths to which Bryan will go for his child.

    Ironically, the career that served as the catalyst for the unraveling of Bryan's family, also provided him with the special skills he ends up utilizing to save his daughter's life when she's kidnapped during a summer trip to Paris. Sure, the kidnapping scene requires some suspension of belief — I mean, what are the odds of Kimmy being on the phone with her father as the perps break into her friend Amanda's apartment in Paris and snatch the two of them up? But, once you get over that bump, you can just buckle your seat belt and enjoy the ride. A brooding Neeson wreaks havoc throughout Paris as he attempts to find his daughter, who has apparently been abducted by sex slave traders. Every fight scene, shooting spree, and care chase unfolds with remarkable grace and ease, and the absence of silly Die Hard-esque catchphrases makes Neeson appear all the more ruthless and determined (which in turn, makes audiences root for him even harder).

    The film's depiction of the sex slave trade, meanwhile, is even more harrowing than the portrayal of snuff films in 8MM. There are Hollywood-esque elements, of course, but the film does depict certain aspects of the sex trade with incredible accuracy and the proper severity.

    If you want an adrenaline-pumping, kick-ass action flick, look no further.

    (****)

  • : Wendy and Lucy

    Wendy and Lucy

    Michelle Williams is a chameleon-like actress of incredible grace and, while her performances are consistently satisfying, she tends to excel most when playing complicated, moody characters. Here, Williams plays Wendy, a cash-strapped young woman who leaves her home in Indiana and drives from place to place, en route to Alaska (where she plans to find work), accompanied only by her dog Lucy. Timid, soft-spoken, and slightly socially awkward, Wendy often appears listless and lonely (though we never learn why she left home, a phone call to her sister suggests a strained relationship)— if not downright desolate. When her car breaks down in a small, unassuming town in Oregon and she unwittingly loses her beloved Lucy, Wendy must extend her stay and figure out how to survive (especially given her limited finances) in these new surroundings.

    Billed as a character study, Wendy and Lucy does offer an interesting portrayal of a free-spirited yet troubled, idealistic yet oft misunderstood young woman — all thanks to Williams' quietly thunderous performance. And, while director Kelly Reichardt captures the essence of this sleepy, rural town, in doing so, she also sets a slow-moving pace that requires a bit too much patience from viewers. Sure, one could argue that Reichardt was aiming for a subtle, poetic effect, juxtaposing Wendy's life with her surroundings' mood, but the plot itself will prove to be simply too sluggish for most viewers to withstand.

    (**)

  • : The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (Two-Disc Special Edition)

    The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (Two-Disc Special Edition)

    A period piece, drama, love story and magical tale wrapped in one glorious package, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button compels viewers to reexamine the way they see life, death, and love. Brad Pitt stars as Benjamin Button, a man born in post-WWI New Orleans whose mother passes at childbirth and whose father abandons him in front of a boisterous boarding house. Why? Well, at birth, Benjamin Button bears the bone structure, wrinkled skin, and failing organ functions of a man well into his '80s. Although a doctor estimates that the newborn will only live a few more days or weeks, the woman who found the abandoned child on her doorstep, Queenie (played impeccably by Taraji P. Henson), refuses to give up hope. A devout Christian, she takes him in as her very own child and watches in astonishment as Benjamin survives year after year, becoming stronger, more agile and even looking younger as time progresses.

    The first half of the movie focuses on establishing Benjamin's "curious" condition, with director David Fincher and director of photography Claudio Miranda (along with a star-studded team of makeup artists and visual effects experts) gracefully capturing his metamorphosis from a toddler who resembles a tiny, frail old man to a teen who favors a stronger, 60-something fella, and so forth. Visually, this portion of the film is pretty stunning, but, in terms of the storyline, it serves mostly as set-up for the latter half of the film (and it does occasionally drag on unnecessarily for the sake of presenting stunning cinematography). It's in this first half of the film that the movie stumbles a bit, with the occasional, gratuitously hokey, Forrest Gump-esque moments (a scene where a 7-year-old Benjamin is taken to church comes to mind, as well as a caricature-ish depiction of a tugboat captain for whom Benjamin begins to work). Still, these are small hiccups, nothing that truly detracts from the film's magical quality.

    The movie's light is turned on for act two, when Benjamin reunites with Daisy (Cate Blanchett), the girl he'd met when he himself was a mere child (old as he may have looked) and whom he'd always loved. The way in which they find one another, the moment in their lives when they finally connect, and the way their love affair unfolds is beautifully choreographed, but what makes the dynamic so interesting is that both realize their lives are moving in opposite directions, as Benjamin grows younger while his beloved grows older. How can their love survive considering these outstanding circumstances (i.e. the notion of "growing old together" being inapplicable)? I won't reveal the final outcome but I will say it's wistful, sad, moving and inspirational all at once.

    The beauty in this film, for me, lies in how it makes us rethink certain paradigms. If you imagine life as a circle, then birth and death ultimately hold the same spot (think of it as the midnight position on a clock), but it's the other phases of the cycle (childhood, adolescence, etc.) that comprise the remaining arcs. In Benjamin's case, the cycle of life is reversed. Think of it as him moving counter-clockwise within this "circle of life" construct (even though time is moving forward, on a surface level, it would appear that he's moving from death to birth). But regardless of the direction in which Benjamin's life moves, it, like any other, will also have a beginning and an end. Benjamin's understanding of the inevitability of death and the ephemeral nature of every life stage compels him to make the most of every second. Meanwhile, it's fascinating to watch the way his relationship with Daisy morphs depending on the different circumstances framing their individual paths. In the end, it's a testament to how love can take on so many different forms, all of them strong and all-consuming, however different or "curious" they might be.

    (****)

  • : October Road - The Complete Second Season

    October Road - The Complete Second Season

    Watching the second season of October Road is not unlike holding vigil by someone's deathbed — countless quiet and dull hours, sporadic moments of hope, tons of reflection and recollection, rare shows of vitality and, after a long while, the final gasp. Perhaps the main difference is that, with this, there's no sense of loss — just the reality of lost time (spent watching, that is).

    In Season 1, novelist Nick Garrett (played by an adorable Bryan Greenberg) returns to his hometown after a 10-year hiatus, slowly adjusts to life in the small town, becomes reacquainted with old friends, and rekindles his connection with former high school girlfriend Hannah (played by Laura Prepon). By the end of the first season, Nick confesses his true feelings to Hannah and asks that the two build a life together, along with Hannah's son Sam (even though he's not quite sure who Sam's father is since it's a secret Hannah has kept hidden over the years). Hannah, of course, doesn't respond in the season finale, so that Season 2 opens with audiences awaiting her reaction.

    And talk about a let-down! What could have turned into a juicy plot line is instead tossed aside so that the majority of the feelings between these two characters is explored through sloppy (and unbearably cheesy) flashbacks of their high school romps. The other characters (save for Nick's best friend Eddie), meanwhile, fail to be compelling or riveting enough for audiences to invest in them emotionally. The main players are: Nick's friend, Owen, who has discovered his wife's affair with his best friend Ikey and is struggling to forgive them both (yet goes about his healing process in the strangest and most unrealistic of ways); his weirdo shut-in friend, Phil, who manages to find a girlfriend even as he refuses to leave the apartment; and his best friend Eddie, the popular lothario who is finally overcoming his shallow ways and dating Janet, the nice, chubby girl he once shunned in high school.

    Boring, unrealistic, and utterly devoid of any personality, this second season redefines the term sophomore slump. Simply put: there was no bouncing back from this.

    (**)

  • : Smother

    Smother
    Yes, folks, there is a movie that's even less funny than Death To Smoochy — for 92 minutes of failed, bore-your-eyes-out bad humor, just pop in this DVD, starring Diane Keaton as an overbearing mother who moves in with her unemployed son (Dax Sheperd) and his live-in girlfriend (Liv Tyler). Sure, most people can relate to the overbearing mom scenario, but without a solid plot, sympathetic characters, or clever jokes, all audiences are left with is a mediocre idea and a catastrophic execution. Sure, the sight of Diane Keaton in a ridiculous pumpkin-shaped Halloween costume might stir up a few chuckles, but it's downhill after that — and sadly, that moment transpires within the first 15 minutes. Unless you want to use this as a coaster or some sort of torture device, don't bother renting (much less buying) this fiasco.

  • : Notorious (Single-Disc Edition)

    Notorious (Single-Disc Edition)

    Critics showered praise on this Notorious B.I.G. biopic, starring Jamal Crawford as the iconic Brooklyn rapper. As much as I loathe being the voice of discontent, I actually found Notorious to be riddled with Hollywood clichés, caricature-esque depictions (the portrayal of Tupac, played by Anthony Mackie, was particularly one-sided and insulting to the man's legacy) and ill-advised casting (Derek Luke as Puffy comes to mind, as does Angela Bassett as Mrs. Wallace).

    Sure, Jamal Crawford is the big surprise here — he manages to pull off an almost impossible feat, channeling much of Biggie's trademark swagger, flawless delivery (even his voice does B.I.G. justice), and charming sense of humor. And the soundtrack, of course, will energize any Biggie fan — hearing songs like "Suicidal Thoughts," "Juicy," and "Big Poppa" will send you right down a delicious memory lane. In that regard, the movie's impact can't be denied.

    But those seeking a more authentic, nuanced portrayal of Christopher Wallace's life will find the movie has more fluff than substance. Nowhere in the film is Lance "Un" Rivera, Biggie's childhood friend and one of the most influential people in his life, even mentioned, nor is Charlie Baltimore included in the film (an interesting omission given that Baltimore was Biggie's live-in girlfriend after his separation from Faith Evans). The film also skims over his complicated, passionate and volatile marriage to Faith Evans — and, if you've read Faith's memoir Keep the Faith, you already know Faith had a much stronger temperament than what the film suggests). The manner in which the East Coast/West Coast beef unfolded is also barely addressed, as the film rushes through the final stages in Biggie's life while lending entirely too much screen time to his early years. His closeness to Puff, meanwhile, is completely exaggerated (probably due to Puff's own involvement in the film's production, which could also explain why Derek Luke was cast to play him). But perhaps the most annoying scenes involve Angela Bassett, who takes overacting to a whole new level as Mrs. Wallace and who slips in and out of her Jamaican accent, rendering her entire performance inauthentic and far from credible.

    Is it a bad movie? No, far from it. But to uphold this movie as an authentic and credible account of Biggie's life would be a complete fallacy.

    (***)

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Sample Sales, Store Openings and Shows

  • Typepad
    June 26 at Sound-bar in Chicago, IL: Project Art Chicago

    Presented by Hennessy Black and sponsored by FIJI Water, Vapors, Yelp and Fusicology, Project Art Chicago is an interactive experience, with works of art that engage all of the viewers' senses: touch, sight, taste, smell and sound. Among the artists included exhibiting: Craig Bromley, Lauren Holley, seanna g., E.L. Wilson, Sofia Baphomet, Linda Costa, Lauren Aparicio and Oh Snap Kid! DJ Spre and Kid Cut Up, meanwhile, will keep the party poppin'.

    Stop by Sound-bar (226 W. Ontario Street, Chicago, IL) from 9pm to 4am.
  • Typepad
    Now - June 30th: Public Library Summer Sale at PublicLibraryBrand.com

    Need some funky tees to add some cool to your summer wardrobe? Then take advantage of this great sale, where readers will receive a 25% off discount on all Public Library T-shirts (excluding custom DIY designs). Just enter the code "summerlove" at checkout and enjoy the savings!

  • Typepad
    June 16th at 7pm at Barnes & Noble in The Grove in Los Angeles, CA: mark spokesperson Lauren Conrad signs copies of her new novel L.A. Candy

    Reality TV star Lauren Conrad has just released her debut novel, L.A. Candy and will be at the Barnes & Noble store in The Grove in Farmers Market in Los Angeles, CA, to greet fans and sign their book copies. When customers leave, they can stop right by the nearby mark boutique and learn about what products and techniques Conrad uses to keep looking, well, L.A. Pretty

  • Typepad
    Log onto SpaWeek.com for a chance to win a 7-day honeymoon at Hawaii's Fairmont Orchid Resort!

    Don't let the recession mess up your bridal plans! SpaWeek.com, WeddingChannel.com and The Fairmont Orchid have teamed up to offer one engaged couple a dream honeymoon — from Gold Floor accommodations at the AAA Four-Diamond Resort to pre-paid, romantic beachside dinners and spa treatments. The promotion is running through the end of June so don't miss out on your chance to win this incredible prize, valued at over $8000! Visit SpaWeek.com to enter.

  • Typepad
    Saturday, June 13th at Sephora Soho: Josie Maran NYC Tour

    From 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., model Josie Maran, a trailblazer in the realm of eco-friendly cosmetics, will make an appearance at Sephora Soho to speak on the latest products from her eponymous beauty line. Wanna learn how to look like a glamour puss while leading a greener lifestyle? Drop by for some tips!

    Visit Sephora Soho (555 Broadway, NY NY). Call 212.625.1309 for more info.
  • Typepad
    June 13th from 10am-6pm in New York City: Shu Uemura Artistic Driector Gina Brooke at Barney's NY

    Celebrity makeup artist Gina Brooke, the woman who Madonna tapped to keep her looking glam through her upcoming world tour, will be making an appearance at Barney's NYC (located at 660 Madison Avenue) to discuss Shu Uemura's new "Tokyo Lash Bar: Lashes in Nature" collection.

    The faux lashes in the collection are simply superb — from looped, rainbow-colored pieces made with translucent wires to curled, extra long, aquatic-inspired lashes featuring various shades of blue and lashes with bird-like feathers.

    To meet Gina and check out the fab eyelashes, visit Barney's NYC (660 Madison Avenue) from 10am to 6pm.
  • Typepad
    June 13th from 2-5pm at Ron Herman Melrose: "The Music Tee" By LNA and Invisible DJ Launch Party

    Swing by Ron Herman Melrose (located at 8100 Melrose Avenue) on Saturday afternoon. meet designers Lauren Alexander and April Leight as they unveil their new "Music Tee," and enjoy music by DJ Max Van Ville.

  • Typepad
    June 16-18 in NYC: Tracy Reese Sample Sale

    One of the most (if not THE most) successful African-American designers in the game and an overall genius when it comes to creating flirty, colorful apparel, Tracy Reese has amassed an incredible fan base (including Michelle Obama, who sported one of her dresses on the cover of Vogue.

    If you live in the New York City area, swing by this incredible sale and shop from her eponymous line (as well as her "plenty by Tracy Reese" and "frock! by Tracy Reese" lines) and score some goodies for as much s 50% off.

    June 16-18 at 250 West 39th Street. Call 212.298.9300. Open Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Typepad
    Tuesday, June 9 in West Hollywood, CA: Akademiks Fall Collection Preview Party

    If you're in the West Hollywood area, swing by Sur Lounge (606 N. Robertson Blvd.) on Tuesday to check out Akademiks' Fall 2009 collection, "Nine Days," which includes denim in experimental washes and apparel meant to express a risk-taking attitude towards fashion. The event lasts from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and you'll enjoy complimentary appetizers and cocktails, as well as music by DJ Skeet Skeet.

    RSVP to ninedays@pitchcontrolpr.com
  • Typepad
    Now-July 15: Joe's Next Model Competition

    In conjunction with the re-launch of its website, JoesJeans.com, the premiere denim company is launching a three-month competition to find one new male and one new female model that can properly represent the look and feel of the brand.

    Contestants are encouraged to submit short videos of themselves explaining why they're the right fit for the job. Fans, meanwhile, can log on to JoesNextModel.com to vote for their favorites, while judges Nicole Bordeaux (founder/owner of Photogenics, a management and production company for fashion models, makeup artists, hairstylists and more), Mary Filar (Maire Claire's West Coast Merchandising and Promotions Director) and Joe Dahn (Joe's founder and creative director) will narrow the selections down to the top five men and women. These finalists will then be invited to a private casting in Los Angeles with the winners being unveiled on August 12th.

  • Typepad
    Luster Share-Your-Smile Sweepstake on Facebook

    Luster, a professional-strength tooth whitening system, is offering customers the chance to win a brighter smile. Through their "Share Your Smile" sweepstakes, they're offering a chance to win two 1 Hour White Tooth Whitening System kits, two Weekend Tooth Whitening Systems (valued at $120) and $500 in cash. Until May 31st, users can enter the sweepstakes by visiting Facebook.com, post a photo of themselves smiling and sharing some info (in one sentence) on what makes them smile. Ten lucky winners will be selected!

Giveaway Winners!

  • Typepad
    I know a lot of you entered the Tolani scarf giveaway (I was thrilled to see such enthusiasm among my readers!), but there could only be one winner and the lucky gal was Texas native Roseanna Cannaday. Glad to hear you've been sassing up your outfits with the scarf, Roseanna!
  • Typepad
    Washington, D.C.-based STA reader Ellen Snyder won the Mother's Day RapidLash Giveaway and treated her mother to a 2-month supply of the incredibly efficient lash conditioner. Congrats!
  • Typepad
    Congratulations to Trisha Brown, who won the DermaDoctor Poetry in Lotion giveaway. Hope you're enjoying the lotion!

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Blue Crush: Anya Hindmarch's White Hot Summer Bags

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Blue Tote 2


Simplicity really can be such a beautiful thing. These classic, white Anya Hindmarch handbags are infused with a retro spirit by simply adding clean, geometric motifs. The off-white leather "Jackson" shoulder bag, pictured at top (which Jennifer Garner was seen wearing while out and about in Los Angeles on July 2nd), features a rectangular front lock with inlaid naplak leather (a more sophisticated, upscale version of patent leather) in a cobalt-meets-sapphire blue and a light, copper-meets-ochre brown. I love how thin, gold metal strips surround the blue rectangle which is, in turn, framed by the brown, bracket-like shape. It's the small, geometric details that really contribute to the mod feel — just look at the  pizazz added by the shoulder strap, which is made of rectangular metal chain links woven together by off-white leather.

And if you like the retro spirit but need a roomier (and more affordable) alternative, you can opt for the Anya Hindmarch Seasonal Tote (pictured second from top), an off-white, durable canvas tote featuring two semi-circles along the upper front area (a brown slither along the outside and a blue half-moon along the inside), as well as handles made of naplak leather. Claudia Schiffer was recently seen strutting down a London nabe carrying the Seasonal Tote — and she made it tool just as fancy as a Birkin but way more unique.

Anya Hindmarch Jackson bag, £312.50; Anya Hindmarch Seasonal Tote, £44.00. Visit AnyaHindmarch.com

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July 10, 2009

Say Pleats: Leanne Marshall's Bluefly Collection

'Elanna' strapless dress

'Victrine' bubble hem dress

'Jasmine' cropped jacket

'Lana' ruffle skirt 


 

Ivory 'Sophie' hi-low pleated tank

Remember Leanne Marshall? The quiet storm contestant on Season 5 of Project Runway managed to avoid all the drama to emerge as the winner, wowing crowds at Bryant Park with her ocean-inspired collection? Well, Marshall is now trying to "make it work" (okay, it's an overused expression, but it's still so much fun to say!) in the big bad fashion market. Her 9-piece debut collection just hit Bluefly.com, so here's your chance to purchase one of her winning designs.

So are we "sold on her designs" or are we "just not buying it" (to quote Isaac Mizrahi and Kelly Rowland)? I personally think the "Jasmine"jacket (pictured third from top), a short-sleeved, cropped piece made of natural bamboo and featuring puff sleeves and oversize lapels, is a beautiful layering piece for early fall.

If you're looking something that more closely resembles the looks you saw floating down the runway during her acclaimed Bryant Park debut, you'll probably appreciate the "Lana" ruffle skirt (pictured fourth from top), which features the type of fluid, soft pleating construction (in a tiered fashion, no less) that made us swoon at her show. Similarly, the "Elanna" strapless evening gown (pictured first from top) strikes me as a cross between the white wedding dress and the strapless aqua gown seen in her Fashion Week collection (though the Elanna design does feel a bit heavier due to the curtain-like draping at the bottom of the skirt). The dolman sleeved, bubble hemmed "Victoria" dress (second from top) also features the type of delicate pleating we've come to associate with Marshall, though I must say I find it to be one of the safer, more boring pieces.

Her Bluefly collection also includes loose-fitting tank tops with soft ruffles (such as the one pictured above) in white and coral, tunics with banded ribbon details along the neckline in blue and fuchsia, and a fuchsia ddwing dress with ivory details.

While the collection is solid and the pieces appear well-constructed, I'm not sure that they have the wow factor I had anticipated — I would have liked to see more of the unexpected silhouettes and intricate, sculptural pleating details we saw at Bryant Park. I also wish Leanne would have utilized more of the soft aqua blue and turquoise shades that made her collection so vivacious. But hey, it's just a taste of what's to come!

Leanne Marshall "Elanna" strapless dress, $990; "Victrine" bubble hem dress, $275; "Jasmine" cropped jacket, $220. "Lana" ruffle skirt, $168; and "Sophie" tank, $110. Visit Bluefly.com

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July 09, 2009

Yoox.com "Revisiting the 80s" Jewelry Sale

Christian Lacroix

Yves Saint Laurent

Karl Lagerfeld by Ugo Correani

If you're a jewelry buff, then the name Deanna Farneti Cera will probably ring a bell — after all, the jewelry collector has amassed an astounding collection of costume jewelry pieces over the last 30 years and has penned such authoritative books as Amazing Gems and The Jewels of Miriam Haskell . Now, Yoox.com is offering jewelry lovers a peek at Deanna Farneti Cera's treasure trove — and, more importantly, a chance to buy some of these pieces through a series of exclusive online sales.

The first sale, entitled "Revisiting the '80s," features over 20 pieces dating to the decade we associate with excess, over-the-top exuberance and Gordon Gekko-esque greed.The designers featured range from Christian Lacroix to Yves Saint Laurent, Ugo Correani for Gianni Versace, Karl Lagerfeld, Yves Saint Laurent and Premiere Etage. Many of the pieces featured in this sale are one-of-a-kind prototypes that never went into the production stage, so they're beyond rare (hence why it's such a treat that Cera is letting them go).

The design motifs, of course, are naturally rooted in the drama and flamboyance of the era in which they were made. Just look at the chunky, gold-coated, leaf-shaped dangle earrings from Christian Lacroix pictured at top. Or check out the slightly Roman Holiday-esque feel of the Karl Lagerfeld by Ugo Correani gold-coated earrings pictured third from top, which feature circular discs (engraved with Karl Lagerfeld's initials in cursive) embedded inside two thin rectangular bars. For a more kitschy, summer-y feel, check out the Yves Saint Laurent necklace pictured second from top, made using a braided, brown silk cord and gilded metal charms shaped like seashells.

Christian Lacroix earrings, $400; Yves Saint Laurent necklace, $850; Karl Lagerfeld by Ugo Correani, $320. Visit Yoox.com

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July 08, 2009

All Hands On Deck!: Summer Nail Trends

Forget delicate lady fingers. This summer you've got to battle the recession blues with vibrant hues— and that means getting your hands flirty and dirty in regards to the color wheel. All those tan shades and blush pinks can wait 'til winter, girls! It's time to razzle-dazzle 'em with those fingernails.

Whether you opt for neon oranges and yellow, perky coral pinks, ocean-flavored blues and greens, gold and silver metallic accents, this season's polish options all feature a sexy brazenness sure to steam up your look. If you're the adventurous type, call upon your inner muse and experiment with funky nail designs from the comfort of your own home. And, if you're more of a no-assembly-required gal, then you might consider some of glue-on nails with unique, runway-ready designs.

Here, a guide to the best enamel colors, artificial nail sets, nail design tools and more! And, for an extra treat, I added a couple of pics of my own creations (okay, I'm not exactly a celebrity manicurist, but I think some are kinda swaggalicious). Enjoy!

RAINBOW BRIGHTS

Follow the Skittles mantra and "taste the rainbow" with neon bright, candy-colored hues like Zoya's "Pippa," a delicious yellow shade that will have everyone around you yielding like crazy, Jessica's "My Cabana Boy," a neon pink worthy of an M.I.A. music video, and Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri "Orange You Fast!," a quick-drying orange color reminiscent of those Mike & Ike candies, or Orly's Sol Cabana, an orange creamsicle shade that always makes me hunger for a frozen treat.

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Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Fast Dry Nail Color: Rapidly Rosy, Lemon Dash, Pronto Purple, Orange You Fast!,  Flyin' Fuchsia, Brisk Blue, Lickety-Split Lime and Coral Rush. Available at drugstores nationwide.Visit SallyHanse.com for more info.


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Zoya Nail Polish La-Di-Da Collection (Ali; Paz; Pippa; America; Dita; and Renee shades); $36 for Sampler Pack. Visit ArtofBeauty.com


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Jessica "Life's A Beach" collection shades: Under My Umbrella; Loving the Lifeguard; Bikini Bottoms; No Tan Lines; Diva On The Dunes; and My Cabana Boy; $7 each. Available at JessicaCosmetics.com

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Orly Sol Cabana, $7.50. Available at OrlyBeauty.com


TICKLED PINK

Lately, beauty companies have been churning out quite a few collections (from M.A.C's A Rose Romance to Clinique's Bamboo Pink) that really focus in on pink and the nuanced shades within that color family. This summer, Essie brought that concept to our fingertips with an array of shades ranging from blushing bride (the "Luscious Lips" shade) to bright salmon pink ("Cute As A Button") to '80s video-ready shocking pink ("Funny Face"). Celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippman, meanwhile, offered her own floral-inspired, sheer shade, P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing), a perfect hue for garden parties and tea socials.
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Essie Summer 2009 shades: Lovie Dovie; Chubby Cheeks; Luscious Lips; Not Just A Pretty Face; Cute As A Button; and Funny Face; $8 each. Visit Essie.com

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Lippman Collection P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing), $15. Visit LippmanCollection.com


OCEAN BREEZE STEEZ

Once the temperature rises, there's one destination we all dream of: the beach. Whether we envision yachting near a Mediterranean island, sipping frozen drinks in a tropical hut in a fancy Caribbean resort, or simply laying out in the sand at a nearby beach, summer makes us really appreciate the ocean's innate beauty. You can entertain your own inner mermaid (or Poseidon devotee) with aquatic hues like Swizzle Stix, a sky blue hue, Orly's "Calypso Breeze," a deep blue, or sultrier options like Barielle's "Decadence" and N.Y.C. New York Color's In A New York Minute! "East Village," both metallic turquoise shades.

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Barielle Decadence, $8. Visit Barielle.com

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N.Y.C. New York Color In A Color Minute! Quick Dry Polish in East Village, $1.99. Available at chain drugstores and mass retailers. For more information, visit NewYorkColor.com


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Barielle Swizzle Stix, $8. Visit Barielle.com

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Orly Calypso Breeze, $7.50. Visit OrlyBeauty.com

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Barielle Sweet Addiction, $8. Visit Barielle.com


PRECIOUS METALS

Just like we want to resemble bronzed goddesses, with our bare skin shimmering in the sun, we like our nails to do some shining of their very own. If you want a luxurious treat, find a salon where you can Minx your nails (probably THE biggest manicure-related fad at the moment) or, for a more affordable alternative, invest in metallic hues like those in Zoya's La-Di-Da collection (even the green "Midori," shade features a dramatic, high gloss finish).

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Zoya Nail Polish Ooh-La-La Collection (Ginessa; Katy; Tallulah; Goldie; Emme; and Midori); $36 for Sampler Pack. Visit ArtofBeauty.com


DIY NAIL ART

I'm always fascinated by really funky nail designs — one of my closest friends just got a manicure, so that each of her nails reads "I <3 MJ" in a white script with a red heart against a black backdrop, and I couldn't  stop complimenting her! But seeing as I like to channel my personality with my nails and I simply don't have the time to run to the nail salon at my every whim, I've taken to experimenting with some nail art tools — and I must say I've had a blast (scroll down for some of my inventions).

Apparently, lots of ladies are taking a DIY approach to nail art, which explains why companies like Sally Hansen have developed user-friendly tools like the Nail Art Pen, a marker with which you can scribble complex designs, or NYX Cosmetics' INK Nail Art Pens, which feature long, thin brushes with which you can sweep color.

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Sally Hansen Nail Art Pens in White, Black, Light Pink, Hot Pink, Blue, Red, Silver and Gold; $7.95 each. Available at drugstores nationwide.

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NYX Cosmetics INK Nail Art Pens in Pink Pearl, Light Green and Silver Glitter. Visit NYXcosmetics.com

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L.A. Colors Art Deco Nail Art Lacquer in Blue, Hot Pink and Mint, $3 each. Available at Forever 21 stores.


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Kiss Brush-On Nail Art Paint in Soft Purple, Soft Blue, Dark Purple and Neon Orange, $1.99 each. Available at most beauty supply stores.


LIKE GLUE

Fake nails get a bum rap — especially those of a press-on or glue-on variety. And it's easy to understand why. After all, they almost inevitably damage your real nails and oftentimes can pop off at the most inconvenient of locations (plus they have a way of torpedoing across a room and landing somewhere really embarrassing). But, when you're strapped for time, they can be a lifesaver. And thanks to Revlon's latest line of artificial nails, if you need flawless, ready-made hands, they're just a box away!

Revlon's collection ranges from the subtle (such as the "Ballet Pink" set, designed to look like a modern twist on a French manicure) to the sultry (such as the "Mystic" set I applied onto my natural nails in the photo below). Just one warning: the glue is extra potent and will dry on skin a;most immediately so be extra careful or you'll have a mess on your hands — literally!

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Revlon Naturally Chic Artificial Nails in Ballet Pink (pictured in box) and Runway Collection Artificial Nails in Mystic, $9.99. Available at drugstores.

I'M A GO GETTA!!

As promised, I'm going to show you some of the doodles I worked on with my own nail art tools. Now, I'm not exactly Picasso but I was pretty proud of myself. Check out my handiwork:

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To get this look (inspired by Spike Lee's Do The Right Thing movie poster and M.I.A.'s Arular album cover), I applied two coats of Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Fast Dry Nail Color in "Orange You Fast!," brushed on two triangle shaped lines using NYX Cosmetics' INK Nail Art Pen in Light Green, and sealed the look with Zoya's Armor Top Coat.

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I was having an '80s baby moment on this one, so I reached for Zoya's "Dita" shade and then got my Kiss Brush-On Nail Art Pens in Soft Blue and Soft Purple and swept two diagonal lines across each nail — it was beyond simple and looked pretty fresh (at least when you weren't looking too closely!)


** Need a little bit more inspiration? Check out my homegirl Afrobella's post on Fresh Fly Nailpolish Trends  

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July 07, 2009

Reef Madness: Malibu Rum x Reef Check Internship and Limited-Edition Bottle

Malibu-LE-Web


What's summer without some tropical-flavored cocktails, right? (Side note: that comment only applies to those of you over the age of 21; otherwise, please sip a Capri Sun, okay?) For me, few flavors and scents remind me of the Caribbean as much as coconut. So, when summer rolls around, you'll find me stocking up on Philosophy's Coconut Frosting 3-in-1 Shampoo, Body Wash and Bubble Bath, washing my hair with Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula shampoo and conditioner, and sipping on some coconut-flavored drinks made with Malibu Rum (for a simple, refreshing  treat, just mix Malibu and pineapple juice).

Now, environmental activists also get a treat of their own courtesy of Malibu. The brand has partnered up with Reef Check, an international non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of tropical coral reefs and California rocky reefs. From July 1st through August 31st, environmentalists interested in opportunities for hand-on training can apply for one of ten spots in the first-ever Malibu Beach Internship Program. The chosen interns will spend 10 days on an assignment with trained Reef Check EcoDivers, exploring the marine eco systems in Thailand, the Philippines or the Maldives. To enter for a chance to become a Malibu Beach Intern, participants should visit Malibu-Rum.com/ReefCheck

Meanwhile, those who appreciate marine environments from a more distant vantage point can show their support by copping one of these limited-edition bottles, which convey Malibu's commitment to supporting Reef Check's endeavors. The bottle's vibrant colors will make it a welcome addition to any bar — and will get summer party-goers in the mood to get their drink and their two-step on.


Malibu Reef Check bottle, $12.99. Available at select retail locations Visit Malibu-Rum.com for more info.

Posted at 02:51 PM in Art, Liquor | | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

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Stalk Market: Clinique's Bamboo Pink Collection

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Adult pandas eat 12-38 kg of bamboo leaves daily in order to meet their nutritional needs. Me? My hunger for soft, pretty makeup is currently being sated by Clinique's Bamboo Pink collection. The limited edition collection consists of: a Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Bamboo Pink, a three-toned (a peachy pink and two earthy pinks in varying intensities) pressed powder compact featuring an embossed flower design; a yummy Butter Shine Lipstick in Bamboo Pink; a Powder Brush featuring all-natural bristles and a bamboo-like design along the brush stem; and a Colour Surge Eyeshadow Quad in Bamboo Pink.

I'm beyond smitten with the Eyeshadow Quad in Bamboo Pink, which features four delicate, earthy hues with a sexy, dewy shimmer: there's a nude pink color that works beautifully as a base color; a rich, chocolate brown with golden and coppery specks; a pale, khaki-esque brown shade with a pearly golden tint; and a coppery sepia color. I particularly love the last two shades mentioned since they both work wonders at accentuating your natural beauty and illuminating your pretty little peepers, so you can really smile with your eyes (word to Tyra).

The Butter Shine Lipstick in Bamboo Pink is also a decadent treat. Thanks to a new gel formula, the lipstick is so soft and creamy that is glides right onto your lips and manages to deliver as much shine as you'd get from a gloss. The color, meanwhile, is like a mocha-infused, light Thulian pink which I find to be almost universally flattering (and that's a pretty bold statement since, whether a lipstick shade looks good on someone, is often so directly linked to their skin color, hair and eye color, personality, etc.) I also adore the packaging which featured ridges resembling those you'd find in a bamboo stalk.

For me, whereas brands like Urban Decay, NYX and Nars deliver bold, gutsy, live-out-loud colors, Clinique offers the type of hues that bring out the flirtatious, classy damsel in every woman. The Bamboo Pink collection nails this concept, offering an array of hues that are meant to accentuate the natural, rather than conceal it.


Clinique Colour Surge Eyeshadow Quad in Bamboo Pink, $25; Clinique Butter Shine Lipstick in Bamboo Pink, $14; Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Colour in Bamboo Pink, $29.50; Clinique Powder Brush, $30. Visit Clinique.com

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July 06, 2009

Adult Swim: Take A Dip In Trina Turk's Santorini Bikini

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I don't make a habit of following the leisurely going-ons of celebrities (I mean, I really don't care if Julia Roberts gets Cookies 'n' Cream versus Pralines 'n' Cream ice cream or whether Uma Thurman has her groceries put in paper bags as opposed to plastic ones). But, when I was sent a photo of Tori Spelling vacationing in Hawaii in a fuchsia version of this Trina Turk bikini, I was definitely a happy camper because I knew I had to feature her swimsuit on here!

The Trina Turk Santorini bikini, pictured above in mint green, has a funky feel thanks to its slightly retro print of interlocking curved lines — I can't help but stare in awe at the pattern that emerges when you do something as simple as juxtapose wavy lines running horizontally with those running vertically. The bikini bottom features gold-tipped white drawstrings that you tie on the sides for a peek-a-boo effect, while the bandeau top also features white drawstrings that you tie around your neck for a halter-like look (and so you can breathe easy about your top staying in place!).

Are you on Tori Spelling on the same wavelength as far as this killer bikini? Thought so!

Trina Turk Santorini Bandeau Bikini Top, $83, and Trina Turk Santorini Loop Side Hipster Bikini Bottom, $63. Visit Nordstrom.com

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Merci Beaucoup: DC Shoes x Sixpack France Collection

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On July 1st, DC Shoes unveiled the latest installment in its Double Label Series: a limited-edition collaboration with Sixpack France consisting of two sneakers, the hi-top Xander and the lo-top Sector 7, as well as a few menswear pieces: a reversible satin jacket with a black, grid-like pattern on one side and a flamboyantly colorful, almost Gianni Versace-esque, all-over print featuring the visage of a blond woman with heavy, heroin chic-style eye makeup on the other side; a black, zippered hooded fleece with a contrasting nylon-like fabric along the upper chest area; two crewneck sweaters (both with a take on the grid-like pattern displayed on the kicks); and a lightweight leather jacket. Dubbed the "Non Merci" collection (which translates to "no thank you"), the collection constitutes the single most extensive collaboration to date in the history of DC Shoes' Double Label series.

The sneakers, of course, are perhaps the best reflection of that collaborative spirit since two silhouettes from DC Shoes' LIFE collection (the Xander and the Sector 7) were used as the foundation for two unique sneaker designs that convey the spirit of the Sixpack brand's philosophy and aesthetic: from its electronica and rock influences to its appreciation of graffiti art.

Just check out the sneakers for a minute: notice how the uppers feature intersecting, grid-like line patterns that, in turn, create an optical illusion that simultaneously nods to such pop culture phenomena as The Matrix (think of the streaming lines of code), Star Wars (with the light sabers), Spider-Man (the kicks' web-like feel), and even laser rays like the type used in hi-tech security systems. The clear sole, meanwhile, features the image of the blonde women mentioned before (who is meant to signify someone who is unattainable and has a very "I'm-so-over-it" attitude). I also love the color accents -- I love how the yellow bits on the Xavier (from the tongue detail to the DC tag color to the "Non Merci" script along the heel) pops against the stark black leather.

Those DC x Sixpack Xander kicks are my new mon cheries (well, in my dreams, anyway!)

DC Shoes x Sixpack France Collection available at DC Shoes stores. Visit DCShoes.com for more info.

Posted at 12:30 AM in Art, Exercise, Fashion | | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

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July 03, 2009

Celebrate the Fourth of July With Some Red, White and Blue!

Feel like showcasing your patriotic spirit on the 4th of July? Then get your eagle on with a beautiful pullover from We The Free, sprinkle some stars and stripes into your look, or add some bolts of red, white and blue with these fun, sassy accessory and jewelry options.



Shark Classic-Blue

Shark Classic-Red

Freestyle Shark Watches in blue and red, $55 each. Visit FreestyleUSA.com

SMYTH LAPIS
L.A.M.B. Ceylon Smyth Lapis bag, $599. Available at Bloomingdale's and Zappos.com

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We the Free Light Heather Grey Eyelet Crew Pullover, $118. Visit ChickDowntown.com


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Risky Business sunglasses, $11 each. Visit FredFlare.com


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Ben-Amun Falling Star Bright Necklaces, $345. Visit MaxandChloe.com

Posted at 01:55 AM in Beauty, Fashion, Jewelry | | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

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All About "Eve": Angela Lindvall's design for EDUN for YOOX

Edun t-shirt for women
Supermodel and environmental activist Angela Lindvall cites the shadows cast by trees as the inspiration for the above-pictured limited-edition T-shirt "Eve" design. The 100% organic cotton tee was produced by Edun Live, a subsidiary of the 4-year-old, ethically responsible green clothing line EDUN, launched by U2's Bono and his wife Ali Hewson.

Unveiled on Tuesday, June 30th, Lindvall's T-shirt design is available at Yoox.com and constitutes the first installment in Yooxygen's "ever.green" initiative, whereby the e-boutique will routinely present limited-edition organic tees designed by celebrities and produced by EDUN.

All proceeds from the sale of the T-shirts will benefit Green Cross International, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating and preserving sustainable environments throughout the globe, focusing on everything from reducing unnecessary energy consumption and aiding in the development of sustainable energy sources to bringing clean drinking water to rural areas in developing nations.

EDUN Live for Yooxygen Angela Lindvall "Eve" T-shirt, $39. Visit Yoox.com

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July 02, 2009

Unlock The Savings with Little Rooms' Fourth of July Sale

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You gotta love 4th of July sales! To celebrate the holiday, Little Rooms, one of the cutest jewelry lines I've encountered in recent years, is offering consumers 20% off any gold-plated, gold vermeil, and sterling silver pieces starting today, July 2nd up until Monday, July 6th.

That means you can score such beauties as the dramatic, mysterious-looking Entry Lock Pendant pictured at top, which I personally adore and which always makes me think of Madonna's "Open Your Heart" (probably because of the "I'll give you love if you turn the key" lyric), or the statement-making square keyhole ring pictured second from top.

All you have to do is enter the code LRJULY4 at checkout when you visit LittleRooms.com and turn the key to some savings.

Posted at 11:11 AM in Jewelry | | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

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  • Isa Chandra Moskowitz: Vegan Brunch: Homestyle Recipes Worth Waking Up For-From Asparagus Omelets to Pumpkin Pancakes (Paperback)

    Isa Chandra Moskowitz: Vegan Brunch: Homestyle Recipes Worth Waking Up For-From Asparagus Omelets to Pumpkin Pancakes (Paperback)
    (***)

  • Giulia Melucci: I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti

    Giulia Melucci: I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti

    Borrowing a page from such Latino literature classics as Like Water for Chocolate, Giulia Melucci pens a romance-centered memoir filled with references to food. In Melucci's case, though, there's no real poetry or magic to these culinary references — they're rather literal (if at times humorous) allusions to foods her Italian mother cooked for her as a child or the many pasta dishes she experimented with as a twenty-something magazine writer/publicist in New York City. She, in fact, peppers her prose with actual recipes for the dishes that best encapsulated certain moments or experiences. Sadly, the recipes are pedestrian at best, with little culinary value to anyone with more than 50 hours logged in the kitchen.

    Culinary value aside, there are perhaps some details regarding Melucci's upbringing in a Sicilian household in the Bayridge section of Brooklyn that would strike a chord with other readers who share similar childhood memories. Similarly, her late entry into the dating world and the clumsiness with which she approached men throughout her 20s, might be considered charming by some. Personally, I found that her story lacked the universal appeal necessary to make a memoir go beyond the self and the singular experience and touch people from widely different backgrounds.

    For one, Melucci's prose is often dry and stale, devoid of any in-depth reflection (beyond the occasional self-deprecating joke) or vulnerability (her inability to truly show emotion makes her appear guarded and therefore lessens the intensity and power of her story). But, more importantly, there's a very distinct bourgeois air to her writing that makes it hard for those without a middle-class background to relate. She frowns at Ronzoni pasta as if it were beneath her, describes trips to Dean & Deluca (an overpriced store frequented by those with entirely too much money to waste), talks about ordering from the LL Bean catalog (doesn't get much whiter than that), and so forth. Her experiences, then, are those of a woman from a conservative (and financially comfortable) two-parent Italian household, and her failed romance tales pale in comparison to some of the natural disasters other women have endured. Sure, the title is cute but, beyond that, there's very little sauciness or zest to this literary dish.

    (**)

  • Debra Goldstein and Olivia Baniuszewicz: Flirtexting: How to Text Your Way to His Heart

    Debra Goldstein and Olivia Baniuszewicz: Flirtexting: How to Text Your Way to His Heart

    This book's premise is simple enough: you can't expect to abide by dated communication methods when engaging with the opposite sex in today's fast-paced, technologically-advanced world. More and more young men and women are trading in phone conversations for snappy, to-the-point text messages when trying to catch the attention of a potential fling, date or mate. So, of course, Debra Goldstein and Olivia Baniuszewicz set out to offer women a point-by-point, step-by-step guide on how to pique a man's curiosity via text, how to convey your feelings towards him based on the tone of your response (and the time it took you to reply), how to get sexy (without being scandalous) over text, and what the various etiquette rules are in the world of "flirtexting."

    Now, as a concept, the book seems like a welcome addition to the plethora of how-to-snag-a-man handbooks out there, one that's timely and that speaks to a multi-tasking, on-the-go type of woman. But there's a flip side to that argument: if a woman can't be bothered with reading anything message longer than 200-something characters, how on Earth can she be expected to purchase a book on the topic? The generational attention deficit disorder that the authors address as one of the reasons why texting has become so prevalent can also be cited as a deterrent to potential readers of this book.

    In terms of the actual advice given, most of it feels like a 2.0 version of "The Rules" in that the authors encourage women to play silly games in order to appear more/less interested in the guy at hand, provide cookie-cutter "clever" responses for run-of-the-mill texts, and generally encourage all the "thrill of the chase" clichés. Me? I'm 30. I'm too old for all that mess. I'm keeping it 100% whether it be over text, e-mail, phone or verbal communication.

    And, truth be told, ladies, some of their "advice" is just plain ol' common sense. If he doesn't text you back, like ever, he's not interested. And if you're mad about something, you should probably have a face-to-face (or at the very least, a phone conversation) instead of sending a text. Now, did you really need a book for that?

    (*)

  • Luke Crisell: On the Record: The Scratch DJ Academy Guide

    Luke Crisell: On the Record: The Scratch DJ Academy Guide

    If you've ever considered becoming a DJ, you should definitely consider adding this to your collection of reference books. It covers quite a bit of ground: the histories of both the hip-hop and house DJs, the ways in which various DJs have made a living out of their craft, the basic techniques (mixing, blending, scratching, etc.) and tricks, the importance of record selection in various DJ scenarios, and much more.

    Still, there are a few limitations. The DJ 101 section, for one, focuses on turntablism and hence utilizes a turntable set-up with vinyl records as the exemplary setup. In reality, however, most DJS nowadays, prefer to carry their laptops to gigs, utilizing sophisticated computer programs to execute certain tricks. Also, while in "The Life of the DJ" chapter great attention is paid to successful, globe-trotting personalities who have managed to brand themselves (such as DJ AM), very little is discussed about the difficulties of breaking into the game. Most of all, however, On the Record's biggest flaw is its veritable dismissal of both the challenges and opportunities DJs face in an increasingly digital world (even the discussion of social networking sites and online music sites is minimal) and the ways in which future generations of DJs need to adapt in order to succeed.

    Still, thanks to interviews with DJ A-Trak, Junior Sanchez, DJ AM, Sasha, Jazzy Jeff, Grandmaster Caz, Skribble, Rob Swift, Paul Oakenfold, and Stretch Armstrong, among other notables, this book does offer the most in-depth, candid look to date at DJ'ing as both an art form and a career choice.

    (****)

  • Thembisa S. Mshaka: Put Your Dreams First: Handle Your [entertainment] Business

    Thembisa S. Mshaka: Put Your Dreams First: Handle Your [entertainment] Business

    Veteran songwriter Thembisa Mshaka offers women a no-nonsense, insider's look at the entertainment business and the challenges unique to women working in this realm. Rather than just offer vague, abstract truisms of the "be dedicated" and "maintain your professionalism" variety, Mshaka addresses the various ways in which women come into the business, how to create and maintain a proper image, the challenges of balancing family and work, how to negotiate in various different scenarios, and more.

    What makes this such an essential read is that Mshaka draws upon the experiences of numerous power players in different areas of the entertainment industry: from music publicists Yvette Noel-Schure (who reps Beyoncé, among others), Tracii McGregor and Fiona Bloom, to West Coast MC Mystic, LATINA Editor-in-Chief Mimi Valdes-Ryan, celebrity makeup artist Aliesh Pierce, talent agent Jennifer Coles,and web producer Alyce Emory (among many others).It's the anecdotes shared by these women that gives Put Your Dreams First its punch.

    There are, however, a few problems with the book. For one, it's overly ambitious in its attempts to cover so much ground which, of course, means it can seem lopsided at times, with certain realms of the entertainment business (such as songwriting, music recording, and publicity) discussed at length, and others merely mentioned in passing. Second, structurally speaking, the text jumps from one place to the next, without a cohesive, seamless thematic thread. Still, these logistical difficulties aside, there are some brilliant words of wisdom contained therein — and that alone makes this necessary reading for any woman trying to leave a mark in the game.

    (***)

  • Laird Borrelli-Persson: The Cocktail Dress

    Laird Borrelli-Persson: The Cocktail Dress

    Full of potential and extremely well-researched, this ode to the cocktail dress only falls short of expectations due to its brevity and some structural deficiencies. The main chunk of text consists of a 25-paged introduction (and note: only about half of that is actual copy) in which Borrelli-Persson discusses the emergence of the cocktail dress, its evolution throughout the eras, the dominant players in each decade, and how the design changes reflected the mood and sensibilities of the time.

    Borrelli-Persson's prose is clever and witty, her voice decisive and confident. If anything, the reader wants more detail from the distinguished author, more examples of her arguments about the interconnectedness between each decade's design sensibilities and the predominant social atmosphere. For example, she points to Lacroix's poofy sleeves and extravagant embellishments in the '80s as interpretations of the overall materialism and greed of the times as vividly depicted in the film Wall Street. It's these sorts of assessments that make Borrelli-Pearson an expert and, therefore, why the reader is left wondering why all this research is abbreviated into such a dizzingly dense introduction.

    The book then transforms into a full-fledged photography book, with not so much as a caption accompanying each image. The result is befuddling, as we're visually transported back to one era, then forward, then back again, with not so much as a guide to help us understand what it is we're seeing. Sure, at the very end of the book, Borrelli-Pearson provides photography credits (all bunched together in a list-like, bibliography-esque style) that explain each cocktail dress pictured and its relevance, but the fact that these bits of text are located at the back of the book, as some sort of afterthought, shows just how disjointed the book's structure really is. Had the images been placed in some sort of chronological order (or even a thematic one) and been matched with some analytical yet light-hearted copy, this book would have been ten times as powerful. As it stands now, it's a rather watery cocktail.

    (***)

  • Adam Bradley: Book of Rhymes: The Poetics of Hip Hop

    Adam Bradley: Book of Rhymes: The Poetics of Hip Hop

    In this dense, well-researched and extremely articulate work, Adam Bradley makes a powerful, didactic argument for why rap constitutes the most innovative and powerful form of poetry to emerge over the past few decades. Though he exhibits an intimate knowledge of rap music, citing verses from a range of artists including Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Bun B, Jay-Z, Ludacris, Eminem, Common, Nas, Pharaohe Monch, Run-DMC, Busta Rhymes, and more, breaking down the way in which each manipulates words' syllabic breakdowns, how they alter the vocal stresses in different words, and how they create fascinating internal and end rhymes.

    At the root of Bradley's thesis is the idea that poetry was born in rhythm, that it relies on the natural patterns found in living speech. Rap, too, relies on these speech rhythms but, unlike with literary poetry, rap allows MCs to reshape these speech patterns because of its relationship to the beat. MCs use their voices a instruments, expanding and contracting syllable counts, creating unexpected syllabic accents, and defying traditional pronunciations in order to create a rhythm that fits with (but is not subservient to) the beat.

    Though it's extremely academic in nature and should be read with the care allotted to any significant piece of literary analysis, Book of Rhymes is much more than a haughty pedagogic text — it's a knockout argument for the validity of rap as an art form that both scholars and fans can relish.

    (****)

  • Steve Rotman: San Francisco Street Art

    Steve Rotman: San Francisco Street Art
    Why does Prestel continue to publish these anemic street art books? I just don't get it. Mind you, I LOVE street art. I've been an admirer and advocate of graffiti art for as long as I can remember. But the problem with these books is that they have absolutely no substance. These aren't mini Subway Art titles, where there's a social anthropologist and a photographer capturing a booming artistic/cultural movement. This booklet is nothing more than a number of unimpressive snapshots of murals in San Francisco. Fine, some of the stencil art, graffiti pieces, and posters featured are mildly intriguing but what makes the book so dull is that the viewer can't help but think that anyone could've taken these photos (including him/her). And, of course, there is no information regarding the artists who labored to complete these works beyond a tiny bibliography of sorts (a one-page guide with the number of each page and the name of the artist whose work is featured on said page). (*)

  • Josefina López: Hungry Woman in Paris

    Josefina López: Hungry Woman in Paris

    The celebrated author of Real Women Have Curves returns with Hungry Woman in Paris, a deliciously indulgent, unabashedly candid and uninhibitedly sexy tale about Canela, a Mexican-American journalist who abandons her life in the U.S, and embarks on a trip to Paris in hopes of finding a new sense of purpose.

    The story kicks off when Canela's cousin Luna passes away unexpectedly. Falling into a deep depression, Canela blows an important magazine deadline and decides she has no interest in continuing her journalism career. Adding to her woes, she has called off her engagement to a handsome doctor, incurring the criticism of her whole family.

    Wanting to escape her whole world, Canela takes the tickets to her Parisian honeymoon and sets off on an adventure. After a week there, she decides to enroll in Le Coq Rouge, a prestigious cooking school — not necessarily because of an interest in cooking but because doing so will allow her to get a visa to remain in Paris.

    Interestingly enough, as she finds herself in a strange city, she allows herself to experience life without inhibition and, in doing so, discovers how much she involves life's pleasures, particularly food and sex.

    Lopez's ultra-detailed descriptions of her many sexual encounters will make any gal blush, but this isn't just some ravenous, sexcapade-filled romance novel. Peppered in the tale are intelligent observations about race relations in Paris and in the U.S., anecdotes about the experiences of undocumented Mexicans in the U.S., the exoticization of Latinas in the U.S. and abroad, and more. A savory tale, Hungry Woman in Paris is an ideal summer read.

    (****)

  • Robert Hofler: Variety's "The Movie That Changed My Life": 120 Celebrities Pick the Films that Made a Difference (for Better or Worse)

    Robert Hofler: Variety's "The Movie That Changed My Life": 120 Celebrities Pick the Films that Made a Difference (for Better or Worse)
    Don't let the title fool you. While this book claims to feature in-depth, soul-bearing interviews with over 100 celebrities, all waxing poetic about the cinematic works that inspired them. But as you read through page after page, you'll discover that this is nothing more than a trumped-up favorites list. The quotes delivered by the celebrities tend to feel formulaic and lifeless, and there aren't too many surprises in terms of the films cited by these folks. All in all, a big yawn. (**)

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