A Perfect Manicure for Mom from Custom Nail Solutions for Mother’s Day

Give the gift of everlasting nail beauty this Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day (May 13th 2012) is right around the corner and many people are clueless about what to get mom on her special day! Not to worry! Custom Nail Solutions offers innovative kits that help moms achieve everlasting nail beauty and will help them always feel pretty and pampered. Many moms do not have the time nor the budget to make inconvenient and expensive nail salon appointments, although their hardworking hands and nails desperately need the extra care! Custom Nail Solutions kits solve these problems by giving mom custom-fit, everlasting nails that stay on much longer than regular nail polish and are hassle-free. Mom can apply the custom nails in the comfort of her home and on her own schedule. A Mother’s Day gift mom will truly cherish!

Custom Nail Solutions’ beautiful custom-fit nails help busy moms always feel primped and pretty without a trip to the salon

Wondering what moms really want this Mother’s Day? Everlasting nail beauty, of course! Moms everywhere are extremely busy and don’t have the time nor the budget to make inconvenient and expensive nail salon appointments. However, their hands and nails endure so much hardship and they deserve to always feel beautiful, primped, and pampered. This Mother’s Day, give mom the gift of her very own set of gorgeous nails custom-made just for her, thanks to the innovative nail system by Custom Nail Solutions.

A cosmetic dentist invented the concept of these nails. The nails are custom-fit from a personal impression, using dental putty, taken from each client’s individual nail beds which are as unique as a fingerprint. They will fit no one in the world but her. This patented, revolutionary nail product is sweeping the country with excitement and reinventing how women achieve nail beauty. Mom too can have a gorgeous set of nails as unique, beautiful, and remarkable as she is.

Custom Nail Solutions nails are made of an indestructible, high impact thermo-plastic guaranteed to never chip, break, crack, or change shape. They are removable, reusable, and will last mom’s lifetime. No more harsh grindings and filings exposing mom to harmful chemicals. Mom will also not be tied to regular visits spending hours at a salon.

Custom Nail Solutions offers a truly customizable approach, allowing mom to choose the nail length (Sport, Active, Fashion, or Glamour ranging from 3-8mm beyond the end of her natural nail), the smile line (Classic or Deep) and shape (Oval or Square). Designs included French-tipped or solid pink.

The process is easy! Order mom’s impression kit from CustomNailSolutions.com. Schedule her a professional manicure the day she will do her impressions. Have her follow the easy instructional DVD and booklet included in the impression kit. Then send in her completed impressions to Custom Nail Solutions’ headquarters.

Mom’s completed impression will be scanned by Custom Nail Solutions state-of-the-art laser system and sent through a detailed creation process. Her nails are then finished to the design she requested on her order form. If she ever loses a nail, no worries. The anatomy of mom’s nail beds is stored in Custom Nail Solutions database. The Custom Nail Solutions nails are created to fit mom’s natural nail anatomy with precision and accuracy.

Approximately within one week, mom’s custom-fit nails and Application and Removal Kit will be shipped. When the shipment arrives, she can use the convenient and exclusive Custom Nail Solutions stand for ease in applying polish to the nails. Mom may polish her custom-fit nails with any brand or color polish and apply nail art. Then it may be removed with nail polish remover and the Custom Nail Solutions nails will never stain. Then it’s just a matter of applying, enjoying and admiring the transformation! Mom will be able to have glamorous, natural-looking nails anytime, anywhere on her schedule.

Maintenance of mom’s Custom Nail Solutions nails is just as easy. The wear time of the custom nails is approximately 2-3 weeks. Once her natural nails have grown out, mom can use the quick and easy Soak Off Process to safely remove her custom nails. She can use the handy removal wand as she soaks her nails to gently detach the custom nails from the nail beds. She can also use the Soak Off Solution to clean residual glue from both her natural nails and her custom nails. The Ultra Sonic machine makes the removal process even easier, included in the Diamond Package and available for purchase anytime. She may also wear her custom nails for short wear times and special occasions. It’s that easy!

Custom Nail Solutions nails can be easily filed if mom wants to make any changes to her ordered length and shape. To prevent the annoying and frustrating yellowing and fading of nails, Custom Nail Solutions nails contain UV light protection so mom may tan in them and they are also antibacterial and antimicrobial.

The impression system and one set of custom-fit nails retails for $139 and comes with 10 finger trays, 2 spoons, 1 yellow impression material, 1 white impression material, instruction sheet, as well as mom’s beautiful complete custom nails and maintenance system. Orders can be placed online at CustomNailSolutions.com or by calling toll free at (877) 218-7788.

Considering the cost of repeatedly getting acrylics or gels put on and the inconvenience of having to go to a salon, Custom Nail Solutions is a steal and gives mom beautiful, natural-looking nails that she will forever love, custom made just for her. Mom may have beautiful salon-looking nails on her own schedule and in the comfort of her own home.

Press release provided by: Hollywood Communications PR
Photo Credit: Hollywood Communications PR

Custom-made Jewelry for Moms from Not Just Any Old Day

Becoming a mother changes every woman. There is something incredibly special about the mother/child relationship that only a mother can understand. This Mother’s Day (May 13th 2012) moms have a way to keep those closest to her close to her heart, always.

If you’re looking for a personalized piece to commemorate your baby’s or child’s birthdate with a truly one-of-a-kind style, Not Just Any Old Day (NotJustAnyOldDay.com) has just what you’re looking for. These amazing pieces of jewelry are unique to the wearer because each date is literally set in stone on each piece of jewelry. Celebrities such as Vivica Fox, Scott and Renee Baio, Marilu Henner, Deidra Hall and Antonio Sabato Jr., have been lining up to commemorate their special dates with Not Just Any Old Day.

The Key To My Heart plated calendar key with Swarovski crystal ($70) is a favorite among moms and comes with an attached heart charm, is available in four finishes and can be personalized with special heartfelt engraving on the back.

Gold Plated calendar key with Swarovski crystal ($60). A hip, stylish accessory that is not only beautiful but a wonderful conversation starter.

The Gold Plated Crown calendar ring with Swarovski crystal ($55) and the Gun Metal calendar ring with Swarovski crystal ($65). The first to launch the calendar ring, this ring is unique to Not Just Any Old Day. Incredibly sentimental and perfectly fit for mom, this might just be one of her most special pieces.

The Plated Keys Double Days ($110) features two calendar keys on one chain. Perfect for moms with more than one child because you have more than one special date to commemorate! Add as many keys as you need to show all your children they hold the key to your heart.

This special jewelry is as unique as the woman you love. This Mother’s Day she deserves something beautiful!

For more information, please visit NotJustAnyOldDay.com.

Press release provided by: Hollywood Communications PR
Photo Credit: Hollywood Communications PR

Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day from Isabelle Grace Jewelry

It’s never too early to think about spoiling the amazing mother in your life! This year, shower mom for Mother's Day (May 13th 2012) with jewelry that is as beautiful and as elegant as she is. Isabelle Grace Jewelry (IsabelleGraceJewelry.com) offers jewelry collections that are unique and personalized for each and every mom. Customized with names, dates and special messages, these necklaces and rings let mom keep her beloveds close to her heart at all times. Don’t just order another bouquet of flowers; give mom something extra special this year.

Bella Vita necklace ($255) reminds us how motherhood is transforming. Just like a butterfly goes through several stages of transformation, so do women starting as new moms.

Delaney necklace ($125) is demure and sophisticated, reminding us of classic Hollywood icons like Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. Delaney necklace comes in sterling silver or vermeil, and you can accent it with your favorite stones.

Delilah necklace ($140). Part of the Hollywood vintage collection, Delilah features a timeless look and feel with beautifully engraved charms accented by your choice of semi-precious stones. Delilah is set in sterling silver or vermeil.

Hello Sunshine necklace ($130) is a great way to celebrate moms! Featuring a beautifully handcrafted sterling silver sun charm with the message “Oh Happy Day” on the front and “When You Came” on the back, this piece is sure to make you smile. It is especially good for adoptive moms, but will make any mom remember the special day their little one arrived.

Little Love necklace ($85) is the perfect sweetheart gift for anyone who wants to wear a cherished keepsake. Worn as a dangle, this charm is perfect for wearing solo adding to an existing necklace. Or, you can add a funky modern twist by wearing as a stationary charm necklace.

Circle of Love necklace ($185) says who you love with your special message inscribed by hand and enhanced with cubic zircons or birthstones. Like the circle itself, a mother’s love is never ending and wraps around her children completely. Allow her to display her un-ending love proudly around her neck.

Little Moon tag necklace ($130) is hand-inscribed with your loved one’s name and topped with a beautiful brushed matte finish. Add a stone charm to make it completely unique and one-of-a-kind, just like the woman wearing it.

Over the Moon necklace ($158). This beautiful charm necklace features the “Over the Moon” charm in sterling silver and 22kt gold with the message “Over The” on the front and “In Love” on the back and one gold letter initial. This sentiment perfectly describes how every mom feels about her children.

Name Charm Necklace with Gold Heart ($150). A great classic piece and a best seller! Charms are completely made and inscribed by hand of (.999) fine silver. The look is completed by applying a brushed matte finish. A favorite among Hollywood mommies, including Katherine Heigl, Danica McKellar and Jenna Fischer.

The Script Tall tags ($185) feature your special names/word and dates on the front and the back hand-inscribed with unique script handwriting. Edgy and chunky, these tags are modern and cool.

Signature Initial Dog tags ($195). The swanky version of the classic dog tag. The Signature style lettering is in 22kt gold on a textured chain with the outline star charm in sterling silver. Add the initials of all your beloveds.

Signature mini tag ($125) is a sweet, fine silver initial tag accented with a sparkling cubic zirconia. Personalize this necklace with your own special initials and charms. Whether you have one child or several, there is an initial for all of them!

Sweet Hearts Name charm necklace ($135). Sweet Heart tags are custom made of fine (.999) silver and inscribed by hand on the front and back. A brushed matte finish gives it a unique look. Like the kids who hold your heart, these heart-shaped charms represent your special love for them. Add a gold heart stone to capture her heart.

Camilla necklace ($335). This beautiful charm necklace features 3 pieces: the “Mama, Bebe, Amor” tag – the Portuguese words for mommy, baby, love; medium-sized, hand-written name disc accented with cubic zirconias (back can be personalized as well); and tiny heart tag with a 22kt gold heart, big enough for initials or 3 letters. Accented with ruby stones or your choice of stone.

Christina necklace ($385). This beautiful charm necklace features 3 pieces: round tag with the word “Love” in 22kt gold (this piece is double-sided, the front and back are mirror images); “Fleur de Lis” tag accented with 22kt gold (personalize the back with your message, it can fit up to three lines of text, 9 letters per line); and deluxe birthstone “Mini” (you can choose your “Mini” initial and birthstone, accented with 22kt gold).

Love locket ($285). This piece is gorgeous and sure to garner lots of attention. Hanging off a 14kt gold-filled doubled chain you’ll find a handmade (.999) fine silver “locket” style pendant that can be customized with your special message. The heart on the front of the pendant is painted with 22kt gold and inside you’ll find cubic zirconia accents. Make it uniquely yours by adding your own personalized message.

Hammered Initials necklace ($36) is a new, edgy way to show off the ones you love. For moms who have an extra flare the hammered look is handmade and adds a distressed effect. Great alone or layer with baubles or stones.

Vermeil Minis ($55). With a super high polish finish, they make for a sweetly sophisticated look. They look great layered or several worn together. Work in your favorite stones for a dash of color. This piece is a favorite of Victoria Beckham’s.

Date Heart charm necklace ($95) is the perfect gift for the mom-to-be. This piece can feature baby’s due date and is made by hand of fine (.999) silver and 22kt gold. Fits up to 6 letters/numbers.

Bebe Mama Amor tag ($95). Portuguese for Baby, Mommy, Love. This piece is meant to symbolize the special bond between a Mom and her Baby.

For more information, please visit IsabelleGraceJewelry.com.

Press release provided by Hollywood Connections PR
Photo Credit: Hollywood Connections PR

Lavilin Foot Products for Summer

Lavilin, a line from Israel and an international innovator in the field of natural based, active cosmeceuticals, created by Dr. Hlavin, is imported to Canada by Hersko Co. The brand has recently launched here in Canada, for the first time, Lavilin natural based foot care treatments for this summer. These foot treatments have been developed in a para-pharmaceutical level, which is one step above cosmeceuticals because of the level of active ingredients found within the products. Lavilin natural based foot treatments will make you get sandal ready in 7 days without the cost of the spa.

We’re moving into sandal ready weather and with that we all start to pay close attention to our little tootsies that have been wrapped up all winter long. Hoards of men and women invade salons, spas and local mani-pedi spots to beautify and polish their feet so they are sandal ready. But with Lavilin, there is no need to go to spa anymore.

Lavilin natural based foot treatments work within 7 days so you don’t have to spend time or money going to get a pedicure. Those with diabetes have to be careful not to expose themselves to potential infection, skin breaks, and other foot damage from pedicures; and for that reason these foot care solutions have also been clinically tested and certified for diabetics.

Lavilin natural based foot treatments are at home solutions for the problems of dry cracked foot skin. They soften feet without harmful side effects, stimulate healthy cell renewal and eliminate cracked, fissured skin.

Lavilin natural based foot care treatments are all based on Pine Sylvestris Extract, a natural therapeutic ingredient that helps to:

***Clean and revitalize the skin and inhibit the growth of bacteria;
***Treat foot ailments, cuts, irritation, itching and skin infections;
***Stimulate blood flow and consequently;
***Facilitate healing and recovery from various skin problems.

Lavilin natural based foot treatments have also the following effects:

***Remove and disinfect hard, dry skin;
***Anti-inflammatory;
***Exfoliate;
***Disinfect;
***Hydrate and nourish the feet;
***Prevent the recurrence of foot skin irregularities with long-lasting results.

Lavilin natural based foot treatment line consists of:

Lavilin foot repair emulsion

Lavilin foot moisturizing gel

Lavilin foot softening cream

Lavilin foot deodorant cream, lasts up to 7 days

Lavilin shoe deodorant

Lavilin pure foot repair emulsion

Lavilin pure foot deodorant, lasts up to 72 hours

For more information, please visit Hersko.ca.

Press Release provided by: B Communications
Photo Credit: Hersko.ca

Cum sa faci cumparaturi de tip thrift shopping

ValueVillage.com

Unul din segmentele modei mai putin exploatate de catre consumatorii de moda este thrift shopping-ul. Cu siguranta, nu toti au rabdare sa caute comori ascunse intr-un thrift store; dar pe de alta parte, stiu ca sunt destul de multi amatori ai acestui tip de shopping, tocmai datorita comorilor pe care le poti gasi intr-o sedinta de thrift shopping – acea rochie unica, pe care n-ai s-o mai vezi in niciun magazin si la nimeni altcineva pe strada; acel sacou vintage de un model deosebit, acea fusta cu imprimeu floral care ti-a luat ochii, si asa mai departe.

In Toronto sunt multe magazine “thrift stores”, dar cele mai mari si mai populare dintre ele sunt cele din lantul Value Village, un lant de magazine thrift din SUA si Canada.

Sa mergi la cumparaturi de tip thrift shopping este fara indoiala un exercitiu de rabdare pentru oricine paseste pragul la Value Village (sau la orice alt thrift store). Daca nu ai o metoda bine pusa la punct, de cele mai multe ori vei pierde timpul de pomana acolo, nu iti va placea nimic si nu vei cumpara nimic, sau poate vei cumpara ceva doar de dragul de a nu pleca de acolo cu mana goala; iar data urmatoare te vei gandi de doua ori inainte sa mai mergi la Value Village.

Asta daca mergi la Value Village fara un plan bine prestabilit. Cu toate astea, thrift shopping-ul poate fi o experienta satisfacatoare si interesanta, daca stii cum sa o faci; si pentru asta ai nevoie de o metoda bine pusa la punct. Gandeste-te doar cate comori te asteapta acolo, trebuie doar sa stii cum sa le cauti.

***Inainte sa mergi la thrift shopping, trebuie sa stii ce anume vrei sa cumperi. Daca mergi la un thrift store fara sa stii ce cauti, si te gandesti ca “voi cumpara ce gasesc dragut pe acolo”, acel “ceva gragut” va ramane o necunoscuta pe care nu o vei gasi tocmai pentru ca e o necunoscuta – cum poti sa gasesti ceva, cand nici nu stii ce este acel ceva? Asadar, trebuie sa stii ce vrei sa cumperi, inainte sa mergi la thrift store, si pentru asta fa-ti planul de acasa – iti propui, de exemplu, sa cumperi rochii.

***La Value Village, dar si la alte thrift stores din Canada, hainele sunt aranjate si expuse intr-o anumita ordine, si nu haotic, ceea ce face cautarea comorilor mult mai usoara. Nu vezi mormane de haine aruncate intr-un colt sau pe o masa mare; iar daca vezi, nu acelea sunt punctele de interes ale magazinlului. Hainele la VV sunt de obicei aranjate pe rafturi pe categorii – rochii, bluze, fuste, sacouri, pantaloni, pantaloni scurti, denim, tricouri, geci, etc. Apoi, fiecare categorie este aranjata pe marimi – Small, Medium, Large, Extra-Large. Cateodata, hainele mai sunt aranjate si pe culori.

***Asadar, daca ti-ai propus sa cumperi rochii, mergi direct la raftul cu rochii, la marimea ta. Nu mai pierde timpul cu celelalte categorii (bluze, fuste, sacouri, etc.) daca nu ti-ai propus sa cumperi din acestea, ci mai bine concentreaza-te doar pe ceea ce ti-ai propus sa cumperi.

***Uita-te la fiecare rochie in parte, una dupa alta, cu rabdare. Acorda fiecarei rochii macar cateva secunde, ca sa poti sa-ti dai seama in cazul fiecareia daca este ceva care ti-ar placea sa cumperi. Pune in cosul de cumparaturi toate rochiile care ti-au placut, chiar daca se aduna mai multe decat ti-ai propus sa cumperi – asupra numarului final te vei decide ulterior. Asigura-te ca ai frunzarit toate rochiile de la marimea ta, ca ai avut ocazia sa le vezi pe toate, si ca le-ai selectat pe toate care ti-au facut cu ochiul.

***Ce constati acum? Dupa ce ai vazut toate rochiile, sa zicem ca ai ales 15 rochii pe care le-ai pus in cos. Probabil ca nu vrei sa le cumperi pe toate 15, ci ti-ai propus sa pleci acasa cu un numar mult mai mic de rochii, asa ca urmeaza o a doua selectie. Gaseste un colt mai retras al magazinului, unde nu e trafic mare si unde nu te va deranja nimeni in urmatorul sfert de ora, pentru a-ti face selectia finala. Un loc bun ar fi un raft mai retras unde sa poti agata umerasele cu cele 15 rochii pe care le-ai selectat.

***Cand gasesti locul potrivit, incepi selectia finala pentru rochii. Cel mai bine este sa alegi un numar de rochii egal cu numarul maxim de articole cu care poti sa intri la cabina de proba a magazinului, de exemplu 6. Asadar, din cele 15 rochii vei alege 6 preferate, cu care poti sa intri la cabina de proba si cu care eventual vei pleca acasa.

***Acum este timpul pentru o inspectie mai riguroasa, si uita-te cu atentie la fiecare articol din cele 15 pe care le-ai ales in prima faza. Renunta la rochiile la care descoperi defecte, au pete sau sunt prea uzate, si alege pe cele mai bune 6 dintre ele si care ti-au placut cel mai mult. Marfa de la magazinele de tip thrift store se spala si se curata inainte de a fi scoase la vanzare; dar unele piese, mai uzate, tot vor avea pete dupa procesul de curatare. Daca ti-a placut vreo haina pe care descoperi o pata, mai bine nu o cumperi. Odata ce pata aia n-a iesit in timpul procesului de curatare a magazinului, sansele ca acea pata sa dispara cand speli haina acasa sunt cu atat mai mici.

***Asadar, ai ales cele 6 piese pe care le vei lua la cabina de proba. Dar nici la celelalte nu renunta deocamdata. In cazul in care constati la cabina de proba ca nu toate cele 6 rochii iti vin bine, si in cazul in care te hotarasti sa cumperi mai putine din ele, dar vrei totusi mai multe rochii la sfarsitul sesiunii tale de shopping, te poti intoarce la cele 9 rochii mai tarziu. Pe cele 9 ar trebui fie sa le duci inapoi la raionul de rochii si sa le pui intr-un colt al raftului, toate impreuna, fie sa le lasi pe un alt raft al magazinului unde sa te poti intoarce ulterior daca vrei, dupa prima proba, cu conditia ca intre timp sa nu le gaseasca nimeni altcineva si sa nu le ia.

***Urmeaza cabina de proba. Probezi 6 rochii, dar constati de exemplu ca doar 4 din ele te prind bine cu adevarat, asa ca in final renunti la celelalte doua si le pastrezi pe cele 4 finaliste. Dar daca vrei sa pleci acasa cu mai multe rochii? Te intorci la raftul unde le-ai lasat pe celelalte 9, si daca intre timp nu le-a descoperit nimeni altcineva, ai ocazia sa te mai hotrarasti sa cumperi si altele.

In felul acesta, o tura de thrift shopping poate fi o experienta interesanta si placuta, si nu una care sa iti puna nervii la incercare. Ingredientele principale? Rabdare si un plan bine pus la punct.

Madeleine Stowe Wears Samira 13 Statement Necklace on an Episode on Revenge

Actress Madeleine Stowe wore Samira 13 Fine Jewelry on an episode of Revenge in Los Angeles on April 19th. The jewelry piece that Madeleine wore was a beautiful fresh water pearl statement necklace. The necklace is made from Tahitian fresh water pearls with multi chain tassel. It retails for $26,000 and is available by special order at Samira13.com and the Samira 13 boutique in Los Angeles.

Madeleine continues to be a huge fan and supporter of Samira’s; she was most recently featured on the cover of Parade Magazine and on the red carpet at the Paley Fest wearing pieces from the Samira 13 collection.

Madeleine Stowe

Press release provided by: Nancy Lucas PR
Photo Credit: Wire Images

Mena Suvari Wears Gio Diev Heels to the Photo Call for American Reunion

While attending a photo call in Rome, Italy to promote her new movie American Reunion, Mena Suvari accessorized her printed dress with a pair of Gio Diev pumps. These pumps from American-Bulgarian designer’s collection are nude raffia with silver metal mirrored leather detail and silver blade heel. The Nikko I heels retail for $825 and are available at GioDiev.com and other specialty stores nationwide.

Mena Suvari

Another celebrity who was recently spotted wearing these Nikko I shoes from Gio Diev was Lucy Hale in Los Angeles last month.

Lucy Hale

Press release provided by: Nancy Lucas PR
Photo Credit: Getty Images

This Spring We Are in Love with Color

Spring is one of the most exciting times of the year. Besides the actual warm weather that all of us longed for during the cold winter months, it’s the time when we go for shopping again, renewing and reinventing our wardrobes, making plans for new outfits, embracing new trends.

My favorite trend for this season is Color Blocking. I love color, I feel inspired by color, I feel I can stand out of the crowd when I wear color. Ever since the Color Blocking made its way from runways to stores and then to our wardrobes last spring-summer season (remember the colorful 2011?), I hopelessly fell in love with this trend. And I assure you it’s not just a casual “fling”, it’s love for a lifetime. I still can’t forget Gucci’s Spring-Summer collection from last year with its colorful outfits that brought so much life on runways. My very favorites have been two of Gucci’s outfits from the collection that changed the world of fashion for a long time – one of them was the orange blazer with the purple top and emerald green pants, accessorized with the gold belt (worn by Camilla Belle); and the other one was the butterfly dress with the purple top and orange bottom (worn by Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lawrence).

This trend inspired me so much, that it made me re-think my entire wardrobe. Like many other people, I have had my years of black and black only, black from head to toe. But that was a log time ago, during my high-school and university years to be more exact, when black was my second nature. But no more. This time, Color Blocking has become my second nature. So what did I do? I didn’t buy the Gucci outfits I felt in love with, but I used them as inspiration for my own wardrobe and my own style. Last summer you could see me wear an orange blazer form H&M and a purple sleeved top from Suzy Shier, or some other times a purple strap top from Zara, with pants or a pencil skirt. It may not be the acclaimed Gucci outfit from the runways of Milan, but it made me feel good about myself for the entire year. Needless to say, my friends appreciated and admired my new colorful style.

So it became official – 2011 marked the beginning of the Color Era. Black is soooo last century! Or, I guess we could also say “Color Blocking is the new Black”!

Then the Fall-Winter season of 2011/2012 came along, and Color Blocking was still there. Dozens and dozens of exquisite colorful outfits showed off on the fashion runways across the globe – New York, London, Paris, Milan, Toronto. It was unbelievable. Gucci did it yet again, with irresistible outfits in bright colors, and so did many other European and North American designers. Forget about black for winter, it’s color time all year long!

And here we are again – it’s a new spring, a new season, new trends. But Color Blocking has not gone away like many other trends do once their season is over. It’s still here, on runways, in fashion and style magazines, in department stores, in our wardrobes. And I want it to stay and stay, because I truly love it. This spring, Color Blocking is here for us, to brighten our days, both literally and figuratively. And the good thing about it is that you don’t have to splurge on too many new and expensive outfits. The beauty of the color trend is that it’s so versatile, that you can adapt it using what you already have in your closet. Surely there are many outfits in different colors in your wardrobe – wear it and enjoy it baby.

I wish you all a happy and a colorful springtime!

200 de articole

Astazi blogul meu atinge o cifra rotunda si un milestone important pentru mine – am publicat pana acum 200 de articole, in cei 2 ani si 2 luni de existenta a blogului.

Poate ca 200 de articole in blogosfera nu este mare lucru, dar mie imi place sa cred ca este. In mod cert, pentru blogul meu este. Pentru mine, dincolo de numarul natural in sine, este si dorinta de a merge mai departe, de a ajunge si la alte numere rotunde mai mari, de a continua sa scriu, de a continua sa am o voce pe care sa o fac auzita.

Chiar ieri va spuneam de o alta realizare a mea, foarte importanta pentru mine, si anume publicarea primului meu articol print in revista canadiana Village Living Magazine. Asa s-a intamplat ca cele doua milestone-uri ale mele au venit impreuna, “de mana”. And it dawned on me – mi-a luat sa scriu 200 de articole online, pe acest blog (si alte cateva sute de articole pe alte pagini online unde scriu), ca sa pot publica un articol print. Dar cu siguranta nu ma voi opri aici, ci voi merge mai departe. Pentru mine, fiecare efort pe care l-am facut, a meritat.

Va multumesc din suflet ca mi-ati fost alaturi in acesti ani, va multumesc pentru cuvintele de incurajare pe care mi le-ati scris, si sper sa imi fiti alaturi si pe viitor.

A voastra, Victoria West.

Primul meu articol print in revista canadiana “Village Living Magazine”

Village Living Magazine, April-May 2012

Am inceput sa scriu acest blog acum mai bine de 2 ani, si de atunci visul meu a fost sa public nu doar in mediul online, dar si in reviste print. In cei doi ani am avut numeroase incercari de a intra in lumea publicatiilor print, dar fara succes. Parea un domeniu inchis cu lacate grele, usile caruia nu se deschid in fata oricui batea la poarta. In acesti doi ani am trimis zeci de CV-uri si articole scrise de mine publicatiilor care cautau scriitori colaboratori, dar de cele mai multe ori nu primeam niciun raspuns din partea acestora, iar raspunsurile pe care le-am primit nu au fost incurajatoare.

De exemplu, anul trecut prin aprilie am avut o experienta nefericita la sectia de urgente a unui spital din Toronto, unde am asteptat cu copilul 5 ore ca sa i se acorde ingrijiri medicale, dar nimeni nici nu ne-a bagat in seama, deoarece cei de la Urgente nu au considerat cazul nostru prea “urgent”. Am fost atat de suparata atunci, incat am scris acest articol, pe care probabil vi-l aduceti aminte si voi. Toata furia mea, toata supararea mea, toata indignarea mea provocate de un sistem public defectuos care in mod clar necesita imbunatatire la nivel inalt – le-am pus in cuvinte in acel articol. Arhhh, cand imi aduc aminte de acea zi – fierbeam in clocot nu alta!

Am fost atat de suparata atunci, incat am vrut sa spun la toata lumea ce s-a intamplat in acea zi la spitalul respectiv. Vroiam sa dau un semnal de alarma, si am trimis articolul la mai multe ziare din Toronto, dar nu am primit niciun raspuns de la nimeni. O alta publicatie la care am trimis articolul a fost revista Reader’s Digest Canada. Cateva zile mai tarziu am primit un raspuns de la ei, dar nu ca sa-mi spuna ca imi vor publica articolul in paginile lor, ci ca sa-mi spuna ca au deja o serie de articole programate pentru publicare la sectiunea Sanatate a revistei in urmatoarele luni, si nu vor putea considera articolul meu pentru a fi publicat. Ok atunci, ma gandeam, multumesc pentru feedback, in mod cert apreciez faptul ca ati avut amabilitatea sa-mi raspundeti la email.

Nu m-am lasat descurajata de acest refuz, si am continuat sa caut oportunitati de publicare in lumea print. Am continuat sa trimit CV-uri si mostre de articole la toate anunturile eligibile pe care le gaseam, fara sa renunt la visul meu.

Fast forward to 2012. In ianuarie a acestui an, dupa un alt numar de emailuri si articole trimise la diverse publicatii canadiene, am primit un raspuns cu adevarat promitator. Emailul era de la un publisher, care pregatea lansarea unei noi reviste de lifestyle in Toronto. Mi-a spus ca a citit cateva din articolele mele (ii trimisesem vreo 15 linkuri) si ca ar vrea sa ma alatur echipei lui in calitate de scriitor colaborator. A urmat un interviu telefonic, si mi s-a acordat pozitia de fashion columnist la noua revista, primul numar al careia urma sa apara la Toronto in aprilie 2012. Yuupiii, I made it!

Revista se numeste Village Living Magazine, are 6 editii pe an (va aparea la fiecare 2 luni) si este o revista de lifestyle, dedicata vietii de comunitate din Toronto. Tocmai a aparut primul sau numar, cel de aprilie-mai 2012. In revista Village Living Magazine poti citi despre evenimente din Toronto, restaurante si bucatarii, dieta, sanatate, moda, imobiliare, si alte subiecte de lifestyle. Rubrica mea este cea de moda, si primul numar al revistei gazduieste primul meu articol de moda in editie print.

Primul meu articol in revista "Village Living Magazine", aprilie-mai 2012

Curpinsul primului numar al revistei "Village Living Magazine"; "Trending" este rubrica mea de moda, pagina 30

Redactia revistei "Village Living Magazine" si lista scriitorilor colaboratori

VillageLivingMagazine.ca

Cityblis Launches “Direct from the Designer” Fashion Platform

Cityblis.com is pleased to announce the launch of a new social fashion platform, backed by government bodies both in Europe and the US. The Cityblis community has been developed to enable designers around the world to reach out to new markets while giving fashion savvy consumers the opportunity to buy unique pieces from international designers.

Cityblis curates designers and brands including fashion for women, men and children, with an emphasis on “Be Unique”. Cityblis differentiates itself by personalizing each webstore so that every store has an intimate feel. “We do not believe in a one size fits all solution” says Christopher Price, chief operating officer. “Every store is unique, every brand has a personality, and every designer has a story to tell. Shopping is an experience, an event to be enjoyed, and online shopping should not be any different”.

Cityblis removes the middle men to give consumers better access to current season apparel and accessories “direct from designers” in the US, Sweden, the UK and Australia. Designers from new countries will be added in the coming months. Most Cityblis designers create limited amounts of each collection to keep with the unique feeling of their brands.

“We are empowering designers to build brands” said Christopher Price. “Cityblis is working to remove business barriers in the fashion industry and bring together fashion magazines, fashion networks, procurement houses, runway events and trade shows to make international fashion more accessible”.

With the European Union’s Development Association, Swedish Growth Organizations, UK Trade and Investment already involved in Europe, Cityblis has expanded into the US with the help of the Port of Los Angeles, Los Angeles World Airports and the US Small Business Development Center. With the support of all of these groups and others, Cityblis is able to offer all of its services totally free of charge. No fees, no commissions.

Cityblis is working with hundreds of designers such as Gordana Gehlhausen from Project Runway All Stars, Masih Zad, Amelia Powers, Emerson and Sacha London. All designers are screened for uniqueness, professionalism and brand story. Designers interested in being selected for Cityblis are asked to send a link to their website or some images of their work to invitation@cityblis.com.

Through great fashion you find unique people, unique moments, unique stories and share them with the world.

Cityblis - Be Unique

Press release provided by: Cityblis Communications

Bag of Rhythms from House of Marley, a Great Way to Celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd

On April 22nd, we are celebrating the largest environmental event worldwide – Earth Day. This Earth Day, more than 6 million Canadians will join 1 billion people in over 170 countries in staging events and projects to address local environmental issues.

In honor of going green, House of Marley’s line of earth-friendly products embody the values of equality, unit, charity and sustainability all while giving back to people and the planet.

Every piece of wood used in House of Marley products is renewable and sustainable, all aluminum is recyclable and blended fabric is made from discarded fibers of hemp, organic cotton and recycled plastic.

The Bag of Rhythms from House of Marley retails for $349.99 at Future Shop and online at HouseofMarley.com. All House of Marley products are as earth-friendly as they are stylish, and the perfect way to celebrate Earth Day.

This portable speaker system provides the way to bring the Marley spirit, way of thinking and music wherever you go. The MARLEY Bag of Rhythm is made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified, sustainably sourced Birch wood with a bag made from cotton. Equipped with an iPod and iPhone docking and charging station, Bag of Rhythm features twin 1" tweeters, twin 4.5" high-definition woofers and a powerful amplifier that delivers amazing output with crisp detail and deep, powerful bass to play the music loud and proud. An aux-in port connects hundreds of devices (cable included). The Bag of Rhythm uses a universal 100/240 BAC power adaptor; it is also compatible with a 12V car plug and can also be powered by D batteries for portability.

MARLEY products come with the Marley “Signature” Sound, incorporating more than 30 years of audio expertise into the design of the acoustics of their audio products. It is the goal of House of Marley to produce audio products with smooth, powerful bass, mids with stunning presence, and an energized high-end that brings songs to life. Each product undergoes custom tuning for its particular size, shape and material.

The House of Marley donates five percent of its annual profits to 1Love.org, the global movement sparked by the Marley family that provides funding to charities and causes focused on youth, planet and peace. 1Love.org is dedicated to spreading Bob Marley's message of unity and peace by lifting up a new generation of to strike the hammer for charities, causes and ideas that can change the world.

In addition to the Bag of Rhythm, MARLEY headphones are currently available in markets worldwide including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Hong Kong, South Korea, South America, The Middle East and the Caribbean with planned expansion into the rest of Europe in 2012.

Working together for a better world, The House of Marley was created from the belief in Bob Marley’s vision of “One Love”, offering a range of earth-friendly, innovative audio electronics and lifestyle products that adhere to the Marley family core values: equality, unity, authenticity, sustainability and charity.

Press release provided by: NK Public Relations
Photo Credit: NK Public Relations

The Statement Collection from Swarovski, Spring-Summer 2012

Raphaela necklace, $1,600
This astonishing, oversized statement piece seduces with its breathtaking silhouette. Glittering in an intense gradation of coral kiss tones, the contemporary Crystal mesh balls are highlighted by Coral crystal pearls. The rhodium-plated closure is adjustable.

Raphaela bangle, $650
Make a glamorous statement with this astonishing, oversized bangle. Glittering in an intense gradation of coral kiss tones, the contemporary Crystal mesh balls are highlighted by the Coral crystal pearls. For maximum effect, combine this rhodium-plated creation with the matching necklace.

Raphaela ring, $420
This astonishing cocktail ring radiates glamour. Glittering in an intense gradation of coral kiss tones, the contemporary Crystal Mesh balls harmonize with the Coral crystal pearl. The rhodium-plated ring shank is adjustable, offering maximum comfort. Size S fits S-M and size L fits L-XL.

Molly Bright necklace, $775
Radiand and refined, this rhodium-plated necklace offers a trendy vintage look. It features a sensational combination of clear crystals and hand-painted Baroque pearls. For maximum effect, combine it with the matching bracelet or earrings.

Molly Bright bracelet, $610
Make a statement of elegance with this radiant and refined rhodium-plated bracelet. It features a sensational combination of clear crystals and hand-painted Baroque pearls. For maximum effect, combine it with the matching necklace or earrings.

Molly Bright clip earrings, $160
This feminine pair of rhodium-plated clip earrings features a sensational combination of clear crystals and hand-painted Baroque pearls, creating a trendy vintage feel. For maximum effect, combine these refined, radiant creations with the matching necklace or bracelet.

Renewal necklace, $1,100
On-trend and glamorous, this breathtaking statement necklace offers a sensational mix of subtle pastel tones. Elegantly combining crystal beading, Crystal Mesh and embroidery, it comes with an adjustable rhodium-plated closure.

Renewal long necklace, $1,400
Inspired by petals, this breathtaking statement necklace offers a sensational mix of subtle pastel tones and sensually dangling chains. It elegantly combines crystal beading, Crystal Mesh and embroidery, and it comes with an adjustable rhodium-plated closure.

Renewal clip earrings, $525
Treat yourself to a touch of glamour with this breathtaking pair of rhodium-plated clip earrings. Offering a sensational mix of subtle pastel tones and sensually dangling chains, the earrings are beautifully crafted in Crystal mesh and crystal beading.

Rarely necklace, $800
Adorn yourself in a dazzling rainbow of crystal colors with this sixties-inspired statement necklace. The oversized, asymmetric links are embellished n bezel-set crystals in stunning pastel shades. This rhodium-plated design combines perfectly with the matching bangle.

Rarely bangle, $575
Adorn your wrist in a rainbow of crystal colors with this sixties-inspired statement necklace. The oversized, asymmetric links are embellished n bezel-set crystals in stunning pastel shades. This rhodium-plated design combines perfectly with the matching necklace.

Rarely clip earrings, $340
Capture the spirit of the sixties with this magnificent pair of rhodium-plated clip earrings. The oversized, asymmetric hoops are embellished n bezel-set crystals in a rainbow of stunning pastel shades. Add the matching necklace or bracelet for a glamorous ensemble.

Rarely ring, $440
With its oversized, asymmetric silhouette, this magnificent cocktail ring captures the spirit of the sixties. It is embellished in bezel-set crystals in stunning pastel shades. The rhodium-plated shank is adjustable offering extra comfort. Size S fit S-M and size L fits L-XL.

Reception big necklace, $775
Add a hint of red carpet glamour to your evening outfits with this resplendent necklace. It shines in a delicate gradation of grey and white tones with a magnificent mix of baroque and round crystal pearls. Intricate, floral details in clear crystal add a breathtaking sparkle to the timeless silhouette.

Ribbon large necklace, $910
A fresh, romantic and vintage interpretation of the seasonal motif: the flower. This embroidered necklace offers a magnificent fusion of textures and tones; from lilac ribbon to grey crystal pearl to coral kiss and pastel shades of crystal. It hangs elegantly on a rhodium-plated chain.

Ribbon ring, $420
This rhodium-plated ring offers a fresh, romantic and vintage interpretation of the seasonal motif: the flower. Inspired by sixties style, the unique embroidered motif offers a magnificent fusion of textures and tones; from grey crystal pearl to coral kiss and pastel shades of crystal. Size S fit S-M and size L fits L-XL.

Press release provided by: Swarovski
Photo Credit: Swarovski