The Black Dress Traveler

Can't Escape the Golden Globes: Fave Red Carpet Looks

I really tried to avoid blogging about the Golden Globes but the red carpet was too strong to ignore! Since the awards program is hosted by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association I could make the argument that it promotes some type of global understanding. But, lets be honest, I watched the show for the dresses. Here are a few of my fave looks from the evening.

Claire Danes looked absolutely stunning in this elegant number by J. Mendel. It looks relatively simple from the front but the bejeweled back elevates this dress to va va voom. The red lips, sleek hair, and Bulgari jewels complete the look. Congrats to Claire - she won the Best Actress award for her amazing work in Homeland - I'm addicted to that show.


Viola Davis shows off her fabulous shape in this goddess inspired design by Emilio Pucci.The rich bordeaux color is very flattering and the thigh high split shows off her great legs and those Jimmy Choo shoes!


I love a red dress and Reese Witherspoon is absolutely sizzling in this Zac Posen creation. She has really come a long way from her cute Legally Blond days - Reese is officially a bombshell!


Wow - Jane Fonda clearly practices what she preaches. I can not believe she is 74 years old. This beautiful black dress by Jack Guisso perfectly hugs Jane's slim and aerobicized silhouette. Timeless and sexy.


Helen Mirren is another great example of a woman of a certain age that is as sexy as ever. I love the details on this Badgley Mischka Couture dress - the dress is dramatic but not overwhelming.


Tilda Swinton looks like a beautiful alien ice queen in this sky blue fitted jacket and skirt by Haider Ackermann. On someone else this could look like a mother-of-the-bride ensemble but Tilda's androgynous look elevates this dress to high fashion.


Queen Latifah dazzles in this sparkly black dress by Rani Zackhem. The fit on this dress is perfect and proves that you don't have to be a size zero to look absolutely gorgeous!


A platinum dress is not easy to pull off but Nicole Richie looks celestial in this Julien Macdonald dress. From her playful hair to her Jimmy Choo shoes, Lionel's little girl has secured her place as a red carpet princess.


PS. If I had to choose a red carpet date Golden Globe best actor winner Idria Elba would top my list! He looks beyond handsome in his double breasted black tuxedo. Love the black flower on the lapel! And, that smile.....





 
 

Driving Green is Red Hot: Ford Teams Up with Actor Adrian Grenier

Adrian Grenier, SHFT.com co-founder Peter Glatzer (left) and Sherif Marakby (Ford's Director of Electrification Programs) show off the feisty Focus Electric. 

Cute cars and fine fellas will always turn heads so put the two together and you have my full attention! Last week I was invited to learn more about automaker Ford's partnership with actor, filmmaker and musician Adrian Grenier. In addition to being a star, Adrian is a passionate environmentalist and is the co-founder of SHFT.com, a green lifestyle website that conveys a more sustainable approach to life through video, design, art and culture. As part of Ford’s mission to accelerate the development of more fuel-efficient and alternative-fuel vehicles, they have teamed up with SHFT.com "to put the power in the hands of millions of Americans who are interested in being more eco-conscious and saving money." As part of the collaboration, Ford will sponsor a new SHFT web series that will profile innovators and game-changers in the green movement.

One of the cool things I learned is that these Ford electric vehicles can be fueled for about the cost of a cup of coffee. I also thought the styles were pretty cute and the compact size make them great for city life. Here are a few photos of the vehicles. Please note that Adrian Grenier is NOT offered as a dealer option with these cars!



Focus Electric - With this vehicle you never have to worry about an oil change or filling the tank with gas. You can even monitor and schedule battery charging from your smartphone. The interior fabrics are also eco-friendly and made from items such as recycled plastic water bottles.



Ford C-Max Hybrid

Ford C-Max Energi Plug-In Hybrid

Flirty & Fabulous Fun at FestiGals in New Orleans

It has been more than a week since I returned from New Orleans but occasionally a stray pink boa feather pops up at my home in NYC to remind me of my fabulous FestiGals weekend.  This diva powered celebration in the Big Easy took place October 6-9 and was definitely a weekend to remember.  Thanks to FestiGals, my dream of marching in a New Orleans second line parade come true during the Stiletto Stroll down Bourbon Street, I schmoozed with the city's FINEST  firefighters at the Fire & Ice Cocktail Party, and met journalist Soledad O'Brien at a power lunch. The legendary Hotel Monteleone, conveniently located in the French Quarter, was the FestiGals headquarters but we had all of the city at our bead tossing fingertips. Truly, I was having such a good time and living in the moment that remembering to take photos was a challenge! Here are a few of my fave FestiGals memories.

I quickly learned that it isn't a party in New Orleans without boas, tutus, bright colors and beads!

Diane Lyons, Founder of FestiGals



New Orleans socialite Margarita Bergen, accompanied by her festively attired pooch Chiquita, was the Grand Diva of the FestiGals Stiletto Stroll down Bourbon Street.


Meeting Soledad O'Brien of CNN at the FestiGals luncheon at the Hotel Monteleone was a pleasure. Soledad said that you can't make real change in the world without involving or investing in women. Amen to that!


The hottest event at FestiGals was the Fire & Ice Cocktail Party featuring the firefighters pictured in the 2012 calendar. You can order your calendar at www.hotnolafirefighters.com. No need to feel guilty about your purchase - the proceeds benefit the New Orleans Firefighters Foundation. Go ahead and help these hotties out!


During a quiet moment, I slipped away to the famous Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone. Aptly named, the bar actually spins around. I sipped on a delicious French 007 cocktail (champagne, pomegranate juice, and pear vodka).

Of course, the biggest star at FestiGals was the City of New Orleans. There's simply no other place like it, anywhere.  If you've never visited, what are you waiting for? Stay tuned for updates on FestiGals 2012!


View of St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square.

Woo Hoo! The Black Dress Traveler Featured in CRAVE New York City

Can you guess what I have in common with Academy-Award winning actress & ping-pong impresario Susan Sarandon, clothing designer Liz Lange, makeup guru Laura Geller, and trainer-to-the-stars Tracy Anderson? We're all featured in the very first edition of CRAVE New York City! I am absolutely honored and excited to be included in "the ultimate guide to women-owned businesses in New York City, featuring entrepreneurs YOU need to know."

If you are not familiar with CRAVE, serial entrepreneur and unabashed start-up junkie Melody Biringer  published the first guide in 2002 to showcase women business owners in her hometown of Seattle. (Melody knows a thing or two about business - she's built over 20 companies. You can learn more about her journey and get some great business advice in Melody's new book Craving Success, which includes 132 tips for ambitious entrepreneurs.) CRAVE guides are now available in multiple cities, including Amsterdam, Atlanta, Dallas, San Francisco, Vancouver, The Hague, and now for the first time in New York City.

The CRAVE NYC guide features a dynamic and diverse group of women that really embody the essence of New York - creative, bold, and fearless. Whether you are looking for an events planner, photographer, personal trainer, life coach, jeweler, baker, makeup artist, organizer, or decorator; there is an amazing woman in CRAVE that is ready to dazzle you with her talent and expertise.

You can purchase your CRAVE guide at Amazon, or send an e-mail to info@blackdresstraveler.com and I would be more than happy to send you a copy (while my supply lasts) for $15 (payable online via PayPal). Price includes shipping and handling to addresses in the United States only. If you want, I'll even sign my page for you!

PS - Since several people have asked, the black dress in the photo is by Nuova Vita, jewelry by SEVAN.

Crazy About Candace Bushnell: Creator of Sex and the City

I just returned from such an only in New York kind of evening: cocktails and conversation featuring the fabulous Candace Bushnell. The candid and couture clad creator of Sex and the City, Candace was the featured guest at a very special event at Saks Fifth Avenue sponsored by New York Women in Communications. The room was abuzz with women of all ages and backgrounds who were united in our anticipation of hearing words from the woman who had created characters so relatable that ladies all over the world, at one time or another, have described themselves as a Carrie, Miranda, Samantha, or Charlotte. (Me, I'm a Carrie with a dash of Charlotte.)

Beyond being a big fan of Candace's books and the TV series, I am so inspired by her journey. How does one go from growing up in a small Connecticut town to captivating the Big Apple and beyond? As I listened to Candace speak, it became clear to me that it wasn't just her talent that took her to the top, it was her tenacity and her fearlessness. Candace said she had no mentors and no rules to follow - she did it her way. Or as she put it, "you have to do YOU."  Amen to that!

Be sure to pack Candace's most recent books, The Carrie Diaries and Summer and the City, in your travel tote. These Sex and the City prequels are perfect additions to your summer syllabus!

The OSCARS: Life Lessons from the Red Carpet

The players may change but the script remains the same - the day after the Academy Awards the media debates about the best and worst dressed celebs as if it were serious news. Don't get me wrong, I love to ogle and critique the fabulous frocks - there were some dresses that I loved and others that completely underwhelmed me.  However, instead of offering my opinion on the best and worst dressed, I want to focus on recognizing those actresses that seem to possess a real zest for life year round, not just during awards season. The journey to stardom shares some similarities with a great trip - they both require good planning and a little bit of luck! Here are a few life lessons from three Oscar winning leading ladies - Penelope Cruz, Jennifer Hudson, and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Penelope Cruz

Brunette bombshell Penelope Cruz journeyed from her native Spain to make her dreams of stardom come true! In 2008 it all paid off when she was awarded an Academy Award for her performance in Vicky Cristina Barcelona. Off-screen Penelope seems to be having the adventure of a lifetime as a new mom with her hubby, fellow OSCAR winner, Javier Bardem.
Lesson: Sometimes you have to change your location to change your luck.

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson won an Oscar for her first film (Dream Girls) and a Grammy for her eponymous first album - wow. More than just a talented actress and singer, Jennifer Hudson has proven herself to be a survivor. In 2008, Jennifer's mom, brother and nephew were murdered but she did not let grief derail her. 
Lesson: Life has ups and downs but don't give up!

Gwyneth Paltrow

As the daughter of actress Blythe Danner and producer Bruce Paltrow, Gwyneth led a fairly priviliged lfe. Her parents' names may have opened doors but her talent has kept her at the top and won her an OSCAR in 1998 for Shakespeare in Love. Gwyneth has plenty of detractors but I give her points for her fearlessness - she doesn't shy away from trying new things. Perhaps inspired by her hubby Chris Martin of Coldplay, Gwynnie is now embarking on a singing career.
Lesson: Often it is best to ignore your critics!

Get Pampered Like a Rock Star: NIVEA and NIVEA for Men GRAMMY Giveaway

The GRAMMY awards may have come and gone but you can still share in some of the cool swag that the celebs received. Celebrity love birds Bill and Giuliana Rancic were the official celebrity hosts of NIVEA and Primary Wave’s GRAMMY soiree. The bash  was attended by a diverse group of stars, including Brandy, Cee-Lo, Melanie Griffith, and one of my favorite guapos -  Antonio  Banderas. There was also some serious partying going on in Beverly Hills where NIVEA for  MEN hosted celebs at the “Look Like You Give a Damn” Mansion Party. 

 

I'm a big fan of NIVEA body wash and lotion - the products are very affordable but do a stellar job of keeping skin moisturized - and you can find them virtually everywhere you travel.

2 lucky readers will each win a gift bag containing NIVEA's new HYDRA IQ Body Wash & Lotion for women and a selection of NIVEA for Men products.  (The retail value of each prize is approximately $50.) Keep some goodies for yourself and then share the rest with a special fella in your life. To enter the giveaway,  just leave a comment below by 5pm EST on Tuesday, March 1, 2011. 2 winners will be selected at random from the comments left below. Prizes can only be shipped to addresses in the United States.

(Please note that the prize may not contain the exact NIVEA products depicted.)

Woman with Wanderlust: Remembering Josephine Baker

As I battle the winter blues, the legendary Josephine Baker keeps sashaying into my thoughts. Before there was Beyonce or Shakira, Ms. Baker dazzled audiences with her shimmying hips and boundless charisma. The world thinks of Ms. Baker as as an entertainer but I also think of her as a traveler. Fearless, she left behind the confines of her life in the segregated United States to become the belle of Paris.  Ms. Baker knew that sometimes you have to change your location to change your luck. I don't have plans to put on a banana skirt but I am ready to shake things up a la Josephine.

"Surely the day will come when color means nothing more than the skin tone, when religion is seen uniquely as a way to speak one's soul; when birth places have the weight of a throw of the dice and all men are born free, when understanding breeds love and brotherhood."
Josephine Baker

 

Eva Longoria Glams up the Golden Globes in a Flawless Black Dress

I know the Golden Globes are meant to honor the best of film and television but let's be honest, the awards show is all about the dresses. My favorite black dress of the evening was Eva Longoria in Zac Posen. She was absolutely an elegant bombshell! The dress showed off Ms. Longoria's curves without revealing too much skin and captured the best of old Hollywood glamour while updating it with modern accents. Va va voom!

Did you have a favorite LBD from the Golden Globes?

To see a full gallery of dresses from the Golden Globes, visit HollywoodLife.com.

 

Pucker up Long Distance Lovers: Enter NIVEA's Kiss the One You Love Contest

My eclectic romantic history includes a few long distance relationships so I thoroughly understand the frustration of being separated from your sweetie on New Year's Eve. (Ah, where was NIVEA when I was pining for Pepe in Spain?) Long-distance couples can log onto NIVEA's Facebook page to share their stories of love and how they have been kept apart this holiday season. Today, December 20th, is the last day to enter the contest. Consumers can view and vote on their favorite love stories until December 23rd and Nivea will reunite two winning couples in Times Square on New Year's Eve 2011 to share the kiss of a lifetime.  (The winners will be notified December 29th.)

TV personalities Giuliana and Bill Rancic will host New Year’s Eve atop the NIVEA Kiss platform in the heart of Times Square. “Bill and I are thrilled to partner with NIVEA and help to bring together these special couples,” said Giuliana. “We started our whirlwind romance long-distance, so we can certainly empathize with anyone who is apart during the holidays. It’s important to make the most of the times that you’re together and we’re so excited that two lucky couples will win the chance to share the most exciting kiss of the year at the epicenter of New Year’s Eve celebrations around the world.”

  As the official sponsor of the Times Square Alliance New Year’s Eve Celebration for the third consecutive year, NIVEA will prep the lips of thousands Times Square revelers with their hydrating lip balm A Kiss of Smoothness as they prepare for their midnight kisses. Pucker up!

 

 

Five Fabulous Honeymoon Ideas for Prince William and Kate Middleton

I am not really a devoted royal watcher but the late Princess Diana holds a special place in my heart. Like so many little girls, I was glued to the television watching her 1981 fairy tale nuptials to Prince Charles (I even traveled to Philly earlier this year to see an exhibition that included her legendary wedding gown.) I will certainly be watching another  royal wedding, 30 years after Princess Diana's, when her eldest son, Prince William, walks down the aisle in 2011 with his comely commoner Kate Middleton.

We already know that Will and Kate love to vacation in exotic locales: he proposed while they were vacationing in Kenya. Will actually had the engagement ring (Princess Diana's sapphire and diamond ring) hidden in his backpack while they were on holiday. So, I fully expect that this adventurous pair will have an amazing honeymoon. Since money is no object and privacy is key, here are five locations that are experts in delivering the royal treatment.

GoldenEye Hotel & Resort
Oracabessa Bay, Jamaica
British author Ian Fleming penned all 14 of his James Bond novels at this luxurious and secluded getaway. The couple can ensconce themselves in the Fleming Villa, stroll the private beach, and toast their new life together with martinis - shaken, not stirred, of course!


Strawberry Hill, Jamaica
Not only did Charles and Diana once vacation at this resort 3,100 ft. above sea level in Jamaica's breathtaking Blue Mountains, other notable guests include Bob Marley and Mick Jagger. Very exclusive, Strawberry Hill has twelve handcrafted 19th century Georgian style cottages.

Eagle Island, Georgia
Maybe Kate and Will would enjoy some southern hospitality? Located 60 miles south of Savannah, Eagle Island is a ten acre island that is only accessible by boat. Privacy is virtually guaranteed since the 3,343 sq. ft. Eagle Lodge is the only accommodation on the island. Forget the paparazzi - their only neighbors would be the island's namesake pair of bald eagles.

Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa
Chiang Rai, Thailand
Perched on a ridge overlooking the hills of Myanmar and Laos, Anantara's Golden Triangle resort is a world away from Bangkok's hustle and bustle. Romance is everywhere at this luxury resort, including elephant rides for two!


Cocoa Island, Maldives
Surrounded by pristine turquoise water, Cocoa Island is a private island resort in the South Male Atoll. Just over 1,000 ft. long, the resort has 33 water suites and villas.

Reality Star, Fashionista, Traveler: Ramona Singer of the Real Housewives of New York

Ramona leaving a runway show at Fashion Week at Lincoln Center. Great outfit! I imagine that she is wearing jewelry from her collection that is sold on HSN.
Photo: Glenn Mann

Ok, let's get it out of the way: yes, I do watch reality television show and could probably write a dissertation on Bravo's Real Housewives. As a native New Yorker, I'm admittedly biased towards the New York cast and I think Ramona Singer is one of the most compelling ladies on the series. Outspoken, wacky, flirtatious, and business savvy, Ramona lives life to the fullest AND gives good TV.

This petite powerhouse loves a good glass of Pinot Grigio and traveling in style! Remember, it was Ramona that planned the all girls trip to exclusive St. John that turned to scary island. (Lesson: when planning a vacation leave the crazy friend at home!) And, a few months ago Ramona embarked on a four-country tour of Africa in support of the Africa Foundation - an organization "whose mission is to empower people in poverty-stricken countries via education, healthcare and sustainable, income-generating activities." Way to go Ramona!


You can read more about Ramona's life, business and travels on her blog.

Lady Gaga Chooses Style Over Function at the Airport

Count on Lady Gaga to turn the little black dress into a security risk! The pop diva's  metal studded leather frock set off the detectors at Vancouver International Airport and Lady Gaga had to step aside for the dreaded manual pat-down. And, I don't even want to know what she is hiding in that massive beehive!

For more details. visit www.dailymail.co.uk.

Christina Hendricks Makes London Fog Va Va Voom!

Mad Men actress Christina Hendricks wrapped her famous curves in London Fog trench coats for their latest and sexiest ad campaign. In the first picture, the lovely Ms. Hendricks appears to be wearing her animal print coat as a dress at the airport. I may have to try that on my next trip!

Living it Up in Las Vegas

I know they say "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" but, since I'm amongst friends, I'm going to share SOME highlights from my whirlwind weekend in Sin City (hey, a girl has to keep something to herself!) When yours truly was recently invited to enjoy a weekend in Vegas as a guest of the Monte Carol Resort & Casino, I packed my little black dresses and hopped a flight quicker than you could say Elvis has left the building!

Monte Carlo Resort & Casino

Yes, I have visited Las Vegas before but things in this town happen so fast that I knew I was guaranteed to see something shiny and new. In fact, the blingiest thing on the Strip right now is the City Center (a multi-billion dollar gaming, dining, hotel and retail complex). Conveniently, the Monte Carlo is a gateway to City Center via a high-tech & futuristic free 3 minute tram ride.

My Vegas weekend included tasty food, stellar entertainment, and even a little pampering. Time stands still in Vegas and sleep is an afterthought, so a weekend here is equivalent to 4 days anyplace else. Here are a few places worth adding to your itinerary on your next trip to Vegas.

Where to Stay

If unpretentious luxury is what you desire, then book your room at the Monte Carlo With rates as low as $59 per night, you will have plenty of money left over for FUN!  While not as glitzy as some of the other Vegas hotels, the Monte Carlo boasts spacious and comfortable rooms and many amenities. Book a poolside cabana, get your latte fix at the on-site Starbucks, or relax with a spa treatment (I highly recommend the Refreshed & Radiant Facial to erase the signs of jet lag. It is a well-spent $70 for 25 minutes of beauty bliss and wonderful conversation with a lovely facialist named Flower.)

Standard room at the Monte Carlo
 

If you want hotel accommodations with more Vegas sparkle, swankiness awaits you at Hotel 32 on the 32nd floor of the Monte Carlo. This boutique hotel within the Monte Carlo opened about a year ago after a fire ravaged the 32nd floor. Rising from the ashes like a sidelined showgirl who knows the show must go on, the sexy Hotel 32 emerged and its fifty rooms include suites, studios and two-bedroom penthouses. The guest lounge has a breathtaking view of the City Center where the mesmerizing curves of the complex can be viewed while you sip on cocktails. Lavishly yet tastefully decorated, Hotel 32 is a high-tech wonder -  the room's drapes, lights and electronics can be controlled with a nifty remote system. Also, a BluRay player and TV are integrated into the bathroom mirror (no need to miss your favorite show while getting dolled up!) Hotel 32 makes it easy to create your own in-room spa experience - each suite features a hydrotherapy soaking tub and comes stocked with luxurious Kiehl's toiletries. Hotel 32 treats you like the VIP that you are and every guest has exclusive access to a dedicated Suite Assistant who provides butler and concierge services throughout your stay. All reservations also include round-trip limo transportation to and from McCarran airport. That's Las Vegas baby! Best of all, this level of luxury is very accessible - rates at Hotel 32 begin at $150 per night.

A rose petal adorned bathtub at Hotel 32.


Hotel 32 employee Ashley displays an IPhone that is loaned to guests from which they can access concierge and hotel services via a special application.

Hotel options within the new City Center include ARIA, Vdara and the Mandarin Oriental - the ARIA alone has more than 4,000 gorgeously appointed rooms!The attention to detail at City Center is astounding - each property even has a custom scent. If you love art, City Center is Las Vegas's first major collection of contemporary art to be displayed in a public space and includes pieces by Maya Lin and Frank Stella. Indulge in some retail therapy at CRYSTALS - City Center's upscale shopping and entertainment complex houses prestigious brands like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Kiki de Montparnasse.  Best of all, the City Center is a marvel of sustainable design and has achieved LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.

City Center at night (image courtesy of MGM Resorts International)

Public art at the Mandarin Terrace: Claes Oldenburg and Coosje Van Bruggen, Typewriter Eraser, Scale X
(image courtesy of MGM Resorts International)

Where to Eat
Vegas has an endless buffet of fine-dining options but I am going to focus on two within the Monte Carlo.

Brand Steakhouse
Something about Vegas brings out my carnivorous side and being in this lusty town made me want to indulge in a big juicy steak. Located in the heart of the casino floor at the Monte Carlo, Brand is amazingly intimate and retains its own personality while allowing you to soak in the ambiance of the casino. My word of advice: book your reservation here before gambling away all of your money. You must order the Hot Rocks - this thinly sliced and marinated sirloin is served raw alongside a steaming VERY hot rock (don't touch it, really).  Use your chopsticks to place the sirloin on the hot rock and watch it sizzle and brown within seconds. Delicious! I also give the juicy and tender Beef Short Ribs high marks along with the New Wedge Salad (a wedge of lettuce served with red onion, tomato, blue cheese, egg, and bacon mustard dressing.)

Hot Rocks preparation.

    Juicy short ribs!

Andre's Restaurant
Although I did not get a chance to dine at Andre's Restaurant it ranks high on my list of places to visit on my next trip to Las Vegas. I did get to take a tour and I was amazed that this elegant and quiet oasis was tucked in the corner of the Monte Carlo. A AAA- four diamond establishment, many people consider Andre Rochat to be Vegas's first celebrity chef - he's been wining and dining this town for 30 years! The restaurant serves classical French fare and delights oenophiles with their wine list which features over 15,000 vintages. Andre's also has an intimate Cigar and Cognac lounge that looks like a jewel box and has an amazing filtration system - not even a hint of smoke sullied the air. On my next trip, I hope to win the jackpot so that I can indulge in a snifter of 1914 Maison Lheraud Grand Siecle Cognac. David Borowik, the General Manager of Andre's said that, "The 1914 is the 'Year of the Lady.' It marks the start of the First World War when all the men in France went off to fight, leaving their mothers, sisters, wives and daughters to tend the fields. The Year of the Lady is said to be a very elegant and feminine vintage. " Sounds like the perfect Cognac to sip while wearing a little black dress.

   

The Cigar Lounge & Main Dining Room at Andre's

Entertainment 

Here I am with Frank Caliendo as he makes one of his funny faces.

Last but not least, you can't visit Vegas without seeing some live entertainment. I was invited to comedian and master impressionist Frank Caliendo's popular show and even had a chance to meet him backstage - he is a sweetheart. Frank does amazing impressions of everyone from Kermit the Frog to Charles Barkley. And, Frank has an amazing band on stage with him that warms the crowd up. It was hard to contain myself from dancing when they played that timeless 80's anthem Jesse's Girl by Rick Springfield.

If you are fan of magic, Lance Burton ends his 13 year run at the Monte Carlo (the longest of any Vegas entertainer at the same theater) on September 4th. Lance has been voted "Best Magician" 11 years in a row by the Las Vegas-Review Journal.

There you have it - glitzy and decadent with a dash of magic, just another weekend in Vegas!

The Red Carpet at Target in Harlem was SIZZLING!

A favorite of frugal fashionistas everywhere, Target has FINALLY opened their first Manhattan store in East Harlem. Target celebrated the highly anticipated store with a red-hot exclusive party on Tuesday, July 20 featuring an impressive group of famous faces including Jessica and Jerry Seinfeld, Bethenny Frankel and Selita Ebanks. Celebrities shop at Target too! Singer Kelly Rowland told me that she once purchased a little black dress by Mossimo at Target (see video). When asked what he would buy his sweetie from Target, model Tyson Beckford told me he would get the latest Maxwell CD, bubble bath, and baby oil. (see video) Who said Target wasn't romantic?

Here are a few of my favorite looks from the red carpet!

Bethenny Frankel - reality TV superstar, author and creator of the Skinny Girl Margarita looked fantastic in a red frock.

Destiny's Child superstar Kelly Rowland was flawless in a little black dress.

Victoria's Secret model Selita Ebanks left her wings at home but still looked absolutely angelic.

Jessica Seinfeld is one hot momma in this sparkly green and block mini .

  

Model Tyson Beckford, chef Marcus Samuelsson and comedian Jerry Seinfeld were all on target with their stylish looks.

In addition to stocking all of the cute clothes, travel essentials, and accessories that make shopping at Target such a penny-pinching pleasure, the East Harlem store will feature an exclusive Harlem Designers Collection - a limited edition collaboration series featuring designs from artists Isabel and Ruben Toledo, designer Stephen Burrows and chef Marcus Samuelsson.

Target in East Harlem is located at 517 East 117th Street and opens to the public on July 25.

 

Jessica Simpson Travels the World to Learn the Price of Beauty

On paper, I really like the concept of Jessica Simpson's new VH1 show The Price of Beauty: Jessica travels around the world learning about how women in different cultures define and pursue beauty. I'm just not entirely convinced that pop singer/actress Jessica and her entourage (hair stylist Ken Paves and assistant CaCee Cobb) are the right hosts for this show.

Their first stop was Thailand where Jessica retched when trying some local cuisine (ok, they were fried bugs) and laughed uncontrollably during her meditation lesson with a Buddhist monk. Sure, travel can be very unnerving and uncomfortable but I was really dismayed by her immaturity and lack of respect.  And, Jessica honey, 4 inch heels are not the most practical choice of footwear for walking around when traveling.

However, by the end of the episode Jessica seemed to have learned something and said,"tradition is a beautiful thing in Thailand. I'm lucky to have experienced this." On another positive note, Jessica is using her show as a platform to raise money for Operation Smile, a charity that transforms the lives of children born with cleft palates.

The Price of Beauty is Jessica's response to the very ugly treatment she received by the media for gaining a little bit of weight last summer and wearing some unflattering jeans. (Really, who hasn't?) Jessica seems like a sweet soul so I am keeping my fingers crossed that her journey not only takes her around the world but within herself and that she will remember the words of the monk who told her that "Buddhists believe that true beauty comes from within." Amen to that!

Ivana Trump Goes from First Class to No Class

Naughty, naughty, naughty. Ivana Trump, the socialite ex-wife of The Donald, was booted from her first class seat on a commercial flight from Florida to NYC on Friday as a result of her less than classy behavior.

"From the initial contact until Ms. Trump left the property, she was saying f - - k you to all the deputies," and called the kids "little f - - kers," a police spokeswoman told the Palm Beach Post.

Ivana's tirade of F-bombs was allegedly ignited by the sounds of a crying baby that she was unable to block out with her headphones. It is reported that her behavior was so unruly that the plane returned to the terminal so that the TSA could escort Miss Thing off the aircraft.

Shame on you Ivana! Take your private jet if you can't play nicely with others!
Click here to read the entire story in the NY Post.

Journalist Gwen Ifill: On the Go In a Great Jacket

In an age of television pundits who raise their voices without raising important issues, journalist Gwen Ifill's poise and knowledge make her a stellar standout. As moderator and managing editor of Washington Week and senior correspondent for  PBS NewsHour, Ifill is an undisputed media power player. And, power players dress the part.

 Gwen Ifill moderating the 2008 Vice Presidential debate.

I met Ms. Ifill yesterday at the Hudson Union Society's event at the Williams Club where she was discussing her best-selling book The Breakthrough: Politics and Race in the Age of Obama. She made the journey from her home in Washington, DC to New York City on the ACELA train and was dressed in a simple yet elegant travel friendly ensemble of black slacks paired with a black shirt and a perfectly tailored royal blue jacket. The other guests sensibly questioned Ms. Ifill about politics, President Obama, and other serious matters. Don't get me wrong, I care about those issues too and enjoyed hearing her perspective. But there was one question I really needed the answer to. 

"Ms. Ifill, I couldn't help but notice the gorgeous blue jacket you wore when you moderated the Vice Presidential debates in 2008. Who designed it?"
 
Smiling warmly, Ms. Ifill answered, "Nina McLemore."

While not as important as the countless hours of research and hundreds of questions that she carefully crafted in preparation for the highly anticipated debate between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin, I suspect that Ms. Ifill gave serious consideration to a jacket that would be seen by a live audience of almost 70 million people. Not only did she need to like the garment but her selection needed to convey the message that she was confident and in charge without being distracting. For the debate, Ms. Ifill needed to be prepared in every way, especially since there were some vocal critics who questioned Ms. Ifill's ability to be unbiased because then Presidential Candidate Obama was a focal point in her book. When asked how she felt about her detractors Ifill said, "They were trying to mess with my mind and I wasn't going to have it."

Nina McLemore? The name was unfamiliar to me but Nina McLemore must be nothing less than fabulous if Ifill opted to wear her jacket on such a momentous occasion.  Ifill was also wearing a McLemore jacket at her appearance yesterday.

Ms. Ifill was gracious enough to pose for a photo with me! Look, another great jacket!
photo by J. Hoch

Further research revealed that Ms. McLemore is the Founder of Liz Claiborne Accessories and Former Chair of the Fashion Group International. Her collection of clothing for "smart, confident women on the go," is also a favorite of Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

After delivering her great talk, Ms. Ifill had a few hours of free time before taping her appearance on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Could a visit to Nina McLemore's Manhattan showroom for another fab jacket have been the next step on her busy agenda?

Whoopi Inspires Aretha to Fly the Friendly Skies

Legendary entertainers Aretha Franklin and Whoopi Goldberg may not get stage fright but for years they were both grounded by their intense fear of flying, opting instead to cruise around in their luxury tour buses. Earlier this year Whoopi conquered her fears and took her first flight in 13 years. Now it seems that the Queen of Soul is ready to do the same!

Today on "The View", Aretha of the soaring vocals indicated that she was inspired by Whoopi and ready to soar the skies. It just goes to show that it is never too late to conquer your fears! Aretha, get your black dress ready and go!

Nigella Bites the Big Apple!

Best-selling cookbook author, television star, and world renowned domestic goddess Nigella Lawson had the crowd at Tuesday night's Hudson Union Society event eating out of her hands and hungry for more!

Dressed in a perfect little black dress, the curvy culinary celebrity was in New York City to promote her newest book, Nigella Christmas. More than just a collection of holiday recipes, Nigella's festive book is full of practical advice to keep your holiday meal preparations stress-free so that you can focus on enjoying time with your guests.   

A winning combination of posh and down-to-earth, Nigella proudly proclaimed that she is "spearheading the anti-perfectionist movement."  She continued by explaining that "food is about home cooking" and that most people on their death beds will reminisce about the simple foods of their everyday lives, such as a juicy roast chicken, and not the elaborate creations served in restaurants.

Nigella's talent and passion for food have led her on an incredible journey but her ascent was far from premeditated. "I never planned anything in my life. I loafed from crisis to crisis," she laughed. 

Nigella's talk revealed some basic but important truths about life: be comfortable in your own skin, relish life's unexpected twists and turns, and a pat of real butter makes everything better!

Photo taken by J Hoch.

Global Chic: Affordable Luxuries from Iman

 This dreary day in New York City gave me the perfect excuse to spend a little time indoors watching that hilarious haute mess of a talk show known as The Wendy Williams Show.

Wendy's guest today was the gorgeous supermodel and mogul Iman. This ageless diva was promoting her Global Chic line of clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories that are sold exclusively on HSN. I'm pretty familiar with Iman's cosmetics line but really did not know much about her other products. 

Well, I have to say that several of the Global Chic items caught my eye. Best of all, nothing is over $100 and several items have very low clearance prices. HSN also has flexible pricing and many of the goodies can be divided into 2 or 3 payments. These price points make it even easier to follow Iman's advice to "think globally, live fashionably". Here are a few pieces that really stood out for me.

   Handbeaded Parisian Clutch ($69.95) - Love the bold colors. This would be great for an evening out and adding some wow to a little black dress or even blue jeans.  

Parisian Style Open & Airy Braided Cuff (59.95) - Simply elegant! 

 

Venetian Style Multi-Faceted Stretch Bracelet ($54.95) - Playful and flirty. 

Pave Wrapped Stone Necklace ($64.95) - Looks very expensive but only you will know!

Philadelphia Celebrates Princess Diana

As a little girl, I was captivated by the fairy-tales-do-come-true Royal Wedding of Princess Diana and Prince Charles in 1981. As an adult, I was crestfallen by the sudden death of “The People’s Princess” in 1997. Clearly, I was not alone in this sentiment.

What was it about Diana? I am not a Royal Watcher but it was impossible not to watch Princess Diana. Somehow, she was different. In spite of Diana's beauty, wealth, and talents she possessed an ineffable quality that made her seem like someone with whom you could actually share a glass of wine, secrets, and even commiserate about boy trouble.

Twelve years after her death Princess Diana continues to be a source of fascination. Thanks to the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, fans of the Princess can indulge their passion for all things Diana at the fabulous new exhibition, Diana: A Celebration. Diana's brother Charles, Ninth Earl Spencer, flew across the pond from the family's ancestral home in Althorp (where Princess Diana was laid to rest) to welcome guests to a preview of this stunning exhibition. Diana: A Celebration will be open to the public from October 2 - December 31. In his welcoming remarks, Charles referred to his beautiful and altruistic sister as the world's first glamorous humanitarian.

Diana: A Celebration covers 10,000 square feet and features over 150 artifacts organized into nine galleries: Childhood, Spencer Women, Engagement, Royal Wedding, Tiara Gallery, Style & Fashion, Her Work, Tribute, and Condolences. While Princess Diana’s extravagant wedding gown is the showstopper, the other objects in the exhibition really bring Diana’s personality to life. Childhood movies, an old report card, handwritten notes and even old dancing shoes share space with her couture fashions. Most importantly, Diana: A Celebration also showcases her humanitarian work for causes such as HIV and the campaign to ban land mines. Truly, Diana's modern approach to life and her concern for the world far beyond the walls of Buckingham Palace redefined what it meant to be a Royal.

Yes, Princess Diana was only human but Diana: A Celebration is an engaging reminder of how this very unique woman generously shared her gifts with the world and broke through rigid expectations to live life on her own terms.

For more information about Diana: A Celebration, visit www.constitutioncenter.org.

    Princess Diana’s wedding gown - the wedding dress of the century!

Yes, the dress has a 25 foot train!

 

Princess Diana’s brother Charles graciously posed for a photo with me.

Princess Diana wore this scarlet evening dress designed by Jacques Azagury on a 1997 visit to Washington, DC.

   The Style Gallery showcases 28 of Princess Diana’s outfits.

  

Princess Diana’s passports from her childhood and as an adult.

Nancy O'Dell Found Love at the Airport

Gorgeous Access Hollywood correspondent Nancy O'Dell has a dream job, a beautiful daughter and a handsome husband. Hard work landed Nancy her amazing career but travel helped her to meet the man of her dreams.

Nancy told talk show host Wendy Williams that she and her husband Keith met while standing in the security line at the airport. Apparently, they kept making eye contact, struck up a conversation, and the rest is history.

Is love at the airport a quiet phenomenon? A friend of mine met her future husband at baggage claim.

Airports can be downright stressful and unpleasant but these true romantic tales prove that love can happen when you least expect it - another great reason to wear a cute outfit when traveling and leave those sweatpants in your suitcase!

Oprah Discovers My "Amigo" - Polo Player Nacho Figueras

 

The topic on today's Oprah Winfrey Show was the "Most Famous People in the World and polo star Nacho Figueras was one of the featured guests. It was fun to watch Oprah gaze flirtatiously at the handsome Argentinean polo player who is also the perfectly chiseled face of the Ralph Lauren Black Label Line.

Ok, Nacho isn't really my amigo but I did get to meet the man who came in second in Vanity Fair's competition for the Most Handsome Man in the World.  (That kid with the messy hair from the Twilight movies came in first. Whatever.) I watched Nacho play in the last match of the season at the Greenwich Polo Club just a few weeks ago and he was gracious enough to take a photo with me. What a way to end the summer! Oprah mentioned that she had never been to a polo match, so Oprah you are welcome to picnic with me and my friends at Greenwich next season!