I also write for / Scriu si pentru


I also write for / Scriu si pentru

Revista Tango Romania


Tuesday, April 24, 2012

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

Monday, April 23, 2012

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!

Sunday, April 22, 2012

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.

Saturday, April 21, 2012

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

Friday, April 20, 2012

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

Thursday, April 19, 2012

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

Monday, April 16, 2012

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