Fashion-Isha

Blogger Crush: Spotlight on Kristina Bazan

2013-05-19T01:57:00.001-04:00

When it comes to achieving divine and refined fashion, I have a few favorites that I tend to mention quite often: Kate Middleton, Olivia Palermo, and Victoria Beckham, to name just a few. But when I recently came across this post on WhoWhatWear featuring the gorgeous and popular Swiss blogger Kristina Bazan, I instantly fell in love with her style. Take a peek at some of her looks and fashion philosophies:

via

When I checked our Kristina's blog Kature I found oodles of more great style:

via

Kristina's asthetic is all about bold accessories, rich crusty jewelry, vivid colors, lush patterns and textures, and a wonderfully refined manner in dressing. We can all take a cue from her sleeved and skirted outfits on becoming fabulously individual and gorgeous in the way we express our sense of style to the world.

Have a wonderful day!

Dressing Yourself, Dressing Your Table

2013-05-12T23:01:00.000-04:00

I recently contributed this article to a new online crafting magazine for creative women called J Create. I will be celebrating the Jewish holiday of Shavuos from sundown on Tuesday until sunset on Thursday. If you'd like to learn a little bit about it and hear my take on it, read on...

When I think of Shavuos, I think about beautiful flowers, food, tablescapes and fashion. Shavuos is probably my favorite Jewish holiday because it arrives at one of the nicest times of the year and is one of the most simple, yet meaningful holidays that we have. We celebrate the receiving of our most precious gift, the Torah, and who doesn’t love to celebrate and appreciate special gifts. And the fact that the Torah, the epitome of spirituality, was given on a humble, yet beautiful mountain full of flowers, represents the idea that we need to find the right balance between the spiritual and physical. And also that not only is the Torah our special gift, but also all of the beauty in this world that was given to us by Hashem. That’s why the complete Shavuos experience not only includes lots of Torah learning, but also lots of flowers, delicious food, and beautiful clothing!

I wanted to share with you some of my favorite fashion trends for this Spring, and how they can be translated into beautiful Shavuos table settings. I hope you get inspired to buy yourself some beautiful new outfits for Yom Tov and at the same time, get creative with your holiday tablescapes. Enjoy!

Spring Trend 1: Radiant Reflections

Metallics are a great way to modernize your look for spring. This season, metallics go high sheen and mirror reflective. Try a dress with metallic touches or go all out with a strong metallic piece paired with soft neutrals to balance out it’s high sheen. Or simply accessorize with one fabulous shiny piece. Metallics coordinate really well with soft pinks and lilac too, so when applying this trend to your table, try a shiny silver tablecloth and add lots of flowers in soft colors. For a really bold tablescape why not use a sequin fabric for your tablecloth. Let that be your shining focal point by keeping your flowers white and simple.

SpringTrend 2: Emerald, The Pantone Color of the Year

If you’ve been following the fashion and design world you will know that emerald green is the Pantone color of 2013. The question is, how can we incorporate this vibrant hue into our wardrobes and table decor without having it totally overpower our looks? A gorgeous green dress will look beautiful when worn simply with few accessories. Or just incorporate one bold emerald green piece of jewelry, a cuff or a statement necklace, to a more neutral outfit to add a pop of glamour. When planning your outfits and table settings, keep in mind that emerald green coordinates really well with gold and black. For vibrant tablescapes add some emerald glassware, napkins, or even ceramic dishes to a formal background that include touches of gold and black.

Spring Trend 3: Stripe it Up

Marc Jacobs re-introduced the bold black and white stripe in new and fabulous ways at his Spring 2013 runway show. Stripes always come and go in fashion, but this season they get wider and more exciting. Try dressing up a striped top with a glitzy accessory or go for full on stripes on a mod dress for Yom Tov. When using stripes in fashion or on your table, adding a pop of your favorite color will bring your look alive. Yellow looks especially fresh with wide stripes for a cheerful Shavuos tablescape.

I will be on vacation from blogging until at least the end of the week so have a happy Shavuos (if you celebrate) and a beautiful week! For more gorgeous daily fashion and design inspirations follow me on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM.

Sharon

Friday Food and Favorites: Sarah's Zucchini Ricotta Wonton Blintzes and Mascara!

2013-05-09T21:57:00.000-04:00

What do blintzes and mascara have in common? Hmm...you use them both for Shavuos?? Actually this post idea came from a random jumble of thoughts crashing through my overloaded brain. This morning, while I was putting on my makeup, I could hardly get my makeup drawer to close because of the insane amount of mascaras I own. I realize, I have a mascara problem. I literally have tried almost every mascara out there, and let me tell you they are NOT all the same. I've been keeping a running log in my head of which ones work and which ones don't, which ones make me happy and which ones are annoyingly overrated, and which ones cost a fortune and which ones are really affordable. And just like that, the mascara post idea was born!

The idea for the blintz recipe came later in the day when I was chatting with my daughter about recipes for Shavuos and she said to me, "Did you see that sick zucchini blintz recipe Sarah Lasry (The Patchke Princess) posted on Facebook? I want to make that!" And just like that, the food part of this post was born.

Get this heavenly recipe HERE!

So what do blintzes and mascara have in common? If used properly they will both make you very, very happy!

So let's talk about aging...I knew about wrinkles, sagging, not being able to see things closely, gray hairs, slow metabolism (are you depressed yet?)...but no one told me that one day I would look in the mirror only to find my long lush lashes MIA. Now that's not something I'm willing to take sitting down! I tried lash extensions, which I was only happy with for about 3 days...until I woke up one morning and they were all askew from sleeping smushed on my face. (I know, bad for wrinkles!)

I was told that the extensions would come out naturally, but after about 3 weeks they were coarse, messy and just plain ugly. I tried to take them out myself but when my own lashes came out with them I got really mad and said, "Never again!"

So I went back to the drawing board, applying many mascaras in many different variations: curling first, curling after the first coat, mixing brands, coating the lashes with powder first, coating the lashes with foundation first, etc. But, ultimately, it boiled down to this simple fact: Some mascaras really work well, and some are just OK. And the results have little to do with price and glossy ads!

THE BEST

Here are my favorites that really do work!

High end ($30): Yves Saint Laurent VOLUME EFFET FAUX CILS SHOCKING: I first heard about this mascara while reading an interview with Diane Von Furstenburg...my fave! She swears by this mascara. She's mature, yet still so glamorous and relevant, so I knew I had to try this. It was so luxurious and delivered my longest, thickest lashes ever. I'm out of it now, but will definitely treat myself to this mascara again soon!

Mid range ($20): MAC Mascara Haute & Naughty Lash: I'm huge fan of MAC makeup and this mascara offers a great value because it has dual wands: one for length and one for volume. Apply several coats using each wand and your lashes will be wow!

Low end ($5-8): Maybelline New York The Falsies Volum' Express: Maybelline is world famous for their mascaras. The have won numerous awards for Great Lash (which in my opinion does nothing for my lashes). But try The Falsies and I guarantee you will change your mind amount about budget friendly mascara! It's thick and lengthening and the closest you'll get to lash extensions from a bottle at this price. (This mascara is what's holding me back from buying another YSL!)

THE OVERRATED

-Maybelline Great Lash: As I mentioned before, it's just not so great for me.

-Cover Girl Lash Blast Volume: My daughter swears by this and it was listed by Bazaar.com as one of the top ten mascaras, but it just doesn't cut it for me.

-Diorshow: This luxury masacara has gotten lots of press, but when I tried it I was sorely disappointed. Maybe I expected too much from the high cost and glossy ads.

TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR LASHES REALLY STAND OUT

1. Place a small amount of primer on your lids and dust a light coating of a pale, shimmering eye color. This will create a contrasting backdrop for your lashes.

2. Curl your lashes before you put on your mascara. Then dab a drop of liquid or powder foundation onto your lashes.

3. Place two to three coats of mascara on your lashes allowing them to dry for a few seconds in between.

Try my favorite mascaras using these tips and let me know if your gorgeous lashes do indeed make you a bit happier ;) I already know the blintzes will!

Have a wonderful weekend and a beautiful Shabbos!

Sharon

I was not compensated by any company for this post. These are my true and personal opinions.

ENTER TO WIN THIS NECKLACE HERE

This GIVEWAY ends Sunday 5/12/13!

Or buy it HERE. Use checkout code "fashionisha" to save $27!

Wedding Wednesday: Inspired by the Met Gala

2013-05-08T19:41:00.002-04:00

Based on THE recent fashion event of the season...The Met Gala, let's see what this year's black tie trends seem to be...

Honestly I couldn't follow a common theme. Could you? With the creative slew of color, pattern, texture and silhouette in the designs of these gowns, it seems to me that anything goes...so always go with what you love!

Confidence and a smile will always be your best accessories darlings!

Sharon

You can still enter in the GIVEWAY to win this necklace!

ENTER HERE

Or buy it HERE. Use checkout code "fashionisha" to save $27!

The Wonderful People Behind Junee, Your Favorite Modest Clothing Store

2013-05-05T23:39:00.000-04:00

I've been a fan of Junee for a long time now. I know I've mentioned this before, but owner June Aboksis was one of the first people that accepted my line of clothing into her store. And Junee is now a proud sponsor of Fashion-isha too!

Junee the store, as you may know, is the go-to source for everything modest, stylish AND affordable, and is always stocked chock full of fun and colorful tznius clothing that fits right in with the trends of the season.

June the owner, as you may not know, is a true baalas chesed (doer of good deeds), and not only because she carried my line, but because she is extremely active in her community, and is on board whenever there is an opportunity to help others and do good.

And you all know how I feel about the matter: There is no better combination than charity + fashion.

As a matter of fact, June and her husband are being honored this Wednesday evening at the Ohr Naava Appreciation Dinner. Ohr Naava is the organization that provides for all of a Jewish girl's needs and is the answer to the call of women today. More than just a hub of wholesome fun, a place of growth and meaning, or a supportive network of friends and mentors, Ohr Naava is all that—and more. It is the universal address for your friends, neighbors, sisters, daughters....

You are invited to join June in this honor and donate generously to this lofty cause. Reserve your spot HERE. And place your ad to honor June and her husband HERE.

And now that it's that time of year to start stocking up for camp clothing for your girls, there is no better place to shop than Junee Jr. It's guaranteed to be your one stop shop for everything from denim to dressy, and even swim dresses! Here are some of my favorite Spring/Summer picks for girls:

Shop girls' clothing HERE.

And here are my favorites for us!

Aren't you loving the colors and textures? Shop ladies clothing HERE.

Once again...reserve your Ohr Naava dinner and journal ad HERE!

Happy Shopping!
xo
Sharon

You can still enter in the GIVEWAY to win this necklace!

ENTER HERE

Or buy it HERE. Use checkout code "fashionisha" to save $27!

Friday Fashion and Florals

2013-05-03T16:58:00.000-04:00

What came first the flowers or the fashion? Is it the fashion that inspires the flowers or is it the flowers that inspire the fashion? Whichever way it goes, these two elements go hand in hand and have a way of bringing joy to our lives.

And what better time would it be to post this then in the weeks before Shavuos, the Holiday when we celebrate receiving our greatest gift atop a mountain full of blooming flowers!

Enjoy!

Shabbat shalom!

Sharon

GIVEWAY: WIN THIS NECKLACE. ENTER HERE

Buy it HERE. Use checkout code "fashionisha" to save $27!

The Necklace That Inspired The Post: Teal And Black and a GIVEAWAY

2013-05-02T08:30:00.000-04:00

Who wants to win this super chic necklace by Ruti Horn??

Click on photo to buy

It's one of the nicest pieces I've worn...

...and it's inspired by some of the hottest fashion of the season...

Proenza Schouler

Teal and black is a delicious color combo that's perfect for transitioning from Winter to Spring

It also looks divine in decor...

...and it's fit for a Princess

Designer Ruti Horn recommends styling this piece with another fun Spring trend: black and white stripes!

Get your own Ruti Horn statement necklace HERE and save $27 using code "fashionisha" at check out. (You pay only $38, regular price $65.)

You can also enter to win this fabulous, one-of-a-kind Ruti Horn necklace! Here's what you need to do:

Follow Ruti Horn on Instagram

Like Fashion-isha on Facebook

Brilliant Color To Brighten Your Spirits

2013-04-30T07:53:00.000-04:00

I'd like to re-introduce you to another fab modest blogger, Elisheva Blumberg of Bellabusta, who's been here before with her fun and colorful posts, and who we have here today as a guest blogger. Using her eye for all things chic, she shows us how to incorporate brilliant color into our lives. Take a look:

After a long, dark winter there's nothing like brilliant bold colors to brighten your spirits. The world outside is blushing with gorgeous blooms -- color your beauty routine to match!
The color possibilities for eyes, lips and nails this season are endless - here are 3 of my top shades for beauty this spring.

Emerald Empire by bellabusta featuring guerlain eyeshadow

Emerald

This jewel tone is the queen of color for spring. Named Pantone's Color of the Year for 2013, emerald rules the runways.

Line your eyes in this rich shade or go bold for evening with an all-over metallic emerald lid. Short manicured tips in this tone are both chic and cheeky.

Fuschia Fever by bellabusta featuring patent flats

Fuschia

What a way to add pop! This feminine and playful bright pink will instantly put a smile on your face. Swipe fuschia on lips for a fun modern makeup look - but keep the rest of your face pretty neutral. A sheer fuschia tint on cheeks makes for a youthful flush, too.

Lilac Love by bellabusta featuring a matte brown eyeshadow

Lilac

Just like it's floral counterpart, the color lilac is breezy, fresh and reminiscent of spring.

Try a pale lilac polish as a trendier substitute for the more commonplace light pink. A lavender shadow is so beautiful, especially on light-skinned brunettes. Personally, I love to use this airy purple as an eyeliner above my usual black eyeliner (+ lots of black mascara!)

Which of these spring beauty colors will you be trying out this season?

If you love Fashion-isha you will love Bellabusta! Follow her blog HERE, like her Facebook page HERE and subscribe to her email updates HERE.

Until next time,

Sharon

The Joys of Life

2013-04-26T17:20:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday! As I write this (it's late Thursday night), my brain is officially fried from working on my new project, The Simcha Handbook, designed by Toby Fishman of Eff Creative and published by Couture for a Cause. We will be giving out this amazing book at the fabulous fashion event I am co-chairing with Michal Weinstein, of MLW Design, and Esther Silber-Berg to benefit The Jewish Kidney Foundation. I am the editor of this wonderful resource, created for anyone celebrating the joyous events in her life. There's still time to purchase your ad and get into this book! Click HERE!

One of the fabulous sponsors of our event is Freeda Wigs, and as you've seen in some of my previous posts, I'm a huge fan of their products and service. When you are planning a celebration and need the perfect wig, or the perfect style for your wig, visit Freeda (or call 718-771-2000) and you will receive expert service from their talented stylists who keep up to the minute in the latest hair trends.

Are you curious to see what today's top hair trends are? Think buns and braids and braids and buns...and sparkly hair adornments too! Here are some gorgeous examples of the latest hair trends that Freeda Wigs can create for you. Take a look:

The Classic Floral Chignon

The Poof Bun

The Lone Braid Updo

The Braided and Blinged Bun

The French Braid Cascade

The Glamorous Fishtail

The Crowning Glory Bun

The Braided Wreath

Which are your favorite styles?

Have a wonderful weekend!

Sharon

Orange Ya Glad?

2013-04-21T20:21:00.000-04:00

What comes to mind when you think of orange? Refreshing? Citrus? Vibrant? Energy? Sunshine? Those are all words that pop up for me, when I think of this fun and fabulous color. I love the flavor of a juicy orange, and recently, I'm loving the way this color makes me feel... glad. And the beauty of orange is that it's all seasonal. It looks great in the cooler weather when paired with browns and beiges, and wonderfully refreshing in the warmer weather when paired with white and other summery colors. But one of the best colors to pair with orange is blue, because it's on the opposite side of the color wheel, thus creating what is known to be color vibration. Complimentary colors are the most appealing and stimulating to the eye, as seen below on this fabulous outfit worn by my one of my favorite fashionistas, Olivia Palermo:

See? Aren't YOU glad?

...and go ahead and set your Shavuos table with this exciting color combo as well...I just may!

On a difference note, I'm GLAD I have sponsors that believe in Fashion-isha! I'd like to give a shout out to my newest and continuing sponsors who are proud to have their ads on my blog. Email me at ask.fashionisha@gmail.com to get your ad on here too!

ADEA makes high quality Italian shells from the most comfortable, breathable fabric. They offer the perfect layering pieces for all of those outfits you want to make modest. You will be thrilled with the style and comfort they afford. Check out all of the Adea products HERE.

UNDERCOVER WATERWEAR is a fashion miracle. Go to the beach and the pool in style while staying true to your values. You will looks chic and refined in their huge selections of swim dress and skirts that can actually be worn as comfortable clothes too. Go for lunch and then go straight to the beach without having to change your outfit. And the Undercover Waterwear fabric will dry as quickly as any bathing suit so you can run your errands after your swim without having to change again. Check out Undercover Waterwear HERE.

JUNEE is a modest fashion lover's paradise. For affordable prices you can put together a most fabulous wardrobe for you and your girls from the gorgeous clothes sold at Junees. They have a huge assortments of skirts tops and dresses in every color and style. Be a modest fashionista and shop at Junee HERE.

FREEDA WIGS has been an expert in high quality wig making and styling for years! Benefit from the talent, experience, and customer service of the Freeda staff by getting your own gorgeous Freeda Wig. Fashion-isha proudly wears a Freeda Wig and it's one of my best wigs ever. Visit Freeda Wigs HERE.

DELLASUZA, a new name in the fashion world, was founded in 2013 with the goal of satisfying the unique needs of a growing market of women who prefer garments which are longer in length while keeping up with current trends. DELLASUZA introduces each style and its respective colors in limited quantities so as to keep it's exclusivity. Once a style is sold out, it will be replaced by a new trendy one. Visit Dellasuza HERE.

For just $100 per month or $250 for 3 months you can promote your business right here on this page! Fashion-isha has over 50,000 page views per month and over 4500 followers of Facebook. Email me at ask.fashionisha@gmail.com for all advertising inquiries. There are only a couple of ad spaces available so take advantage now!

Until next time...

Sharon

PS Please purchase tickets to The Couture For a Cause Joys of Life Fashion Show hosted by Joan Rivers, to benefit the Jewish Kidney Foundation. Purchase tickets HERE. They are selling out fast!

Also, this is the last week to place your ad in our amazing Simcha Handbook edited by me and designed by Eff Creative that will given out at the event and sold afterward. Don't miss the opportunity to get your ad in this fabulous book! Buy your ad HERE.

Help support our event here:

Wedding Wednesday: All That Glitters

2013-04-17T12:56:00.002-04:00

Happy Wednesday! The weeks are flying by, but that's what happens when you're so busy. I've been working full force on editing the Simcha Handbook (a practical guide for anyone making a party or event), that we will be giving out at our Couture for a Cause event. (Get your tickets HERE).

Sometimes the editing goes into the wee hours of the night and my brain feels like it's going through the world's most intense workout session. And I love every minute of it. (If only I could get my body to to do the same!) If you have a business that relates to parties, events, weddings, etc, I encourage you to advertise in this book! You don't want to miss the opportunity for this type of exposure in the New York area. Find all the information for advertising HERE. The deadline for ads is May 1.

Now I'm about ready for a fun and sparkling mid-week visual vacation. How about you? So for this Wedding Wednesday inspiration I present you...all that glitters!

This gorgeous collage comes from HERE!

Now it's back to work for me. Wishing you all a sparkling day!

Sharon

PS - Today I'm featured on one of my favorite websites ever, the amazing Fabologie! I know we share many of the same fans and we've become friends so this collaboration is just so meaningful to me. See the post here: http://fabologie.com/5-questions-with-fashion-isha/

Right In Our Own Backyards

2013-04-15T09:18:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was a gorgeous day so I took my kids to Central Park in NYC. I don't live in the city but I love New York and go quite often. Since they've been little, I've loved bringing my kids to that magical oasis in the middle of the most bustling city in the world. We would sit on the grass, climb the rocks and eat ice cream. We've gone skating and boating and rode the kiddie rides. And each time we go, the kids are little older and there are new things to discover.

But what was really special about yesterday was that I was finally able to watch my kids truly enjoy Central Park the way that I myself have always enjoyed it. I believe in making it a point to notice the joyous details that lay right before us, even in the most mundane moments of our lives. There's always a silver lining to every story and there's always something beautiful to perceive...if only we'd open our eyes and choose to see. What a great feeling it was to observe that positive attitude that I've worked on my whole life, reflected back to me by my own kids!

It's easy to get distracted by all the negatives: The fears, the fights, the messes, the mess ups, the insecurities and the pain. But if we'd take just a moment to switch the glasses we wear to see the beautiful details that are right in our own backyards, we could change the way we see our world.

As we walked through the city it wasn't only I who was thrilled by the beauty before us, but it was also my kids who pointed out a beautiful tree or a fabulous detail that I may have otherwise not noticed. Watching my kids feel the joy of the details was more joyful than actually noticing them myself.

As if it's our own backyard, we've explored New York many times. But yesterday felt like our first time there. Wouldn't it be nice if we viewed the people and things we love with the passion of seeing their beauty anew every day?

Until next time,

Sharon

Please purchase tickets to the event I'm co-chairing, The Couture For a Cause Joys of Life Fashion Show hosted by Joan Rivers, to benefit the Jewish Kidney Foundation. Purchase tickets HERE!!

Promote your business while helping us, by donating a prize to our raffleHERE or advertising in our Simcha Handbook HERE.

Help support our event here:

Thank you for your support. Every penny goes to this worthy cause!

Incredible Ceilings - The Fifth Wall

2013-04-12T08:27:00.000-04:00

Please purchase tickets to the event I'm co-chairing, The Couture For a Cause Joys of Life Fashion Show hosted by Joan Rivers, to benefit the Jewish Kidney Foundation. Purchase tickets HERE!!

Promote your business while helping us, by donating a prize to our raffle HERE or advertising in our Simcha Handbook HERE.

Help support our event here:

Thank you for your support. Every penny goes to this worthy cause!

And now on to the post...

Gone are the days when the ceiling was relegated to the back seat of home decor by slapping a coat of matte white paint onto it. The ceiling of a room is literally the fifth wall and should be taken seriously as a canvas for creative decorating. A simple room can be elevated to a masterpiece in design when attention is paid to the ceiling. With a fabulous ceiling, all one has to do is glance up above for a dramatic surprise that can literally lighten your spirits!

Keep your head up and have a wonderful weekend and a beautiful Shabbos!

Sharon

You can still shop my Stella & Dot Trunk Show by clicking HERE (with every purchase you will be entered to win this pair of earrings):

Please follow Fashion-isha on...

The Incredible Jus by Julie - My Experience and Results

2013-04-09T20:34:00.001-04:00

If you remember my previous Friday Food and Favorites post you will know that I just finished a 3 day juice cleanse by Jus by Julie. Have you been dying to hear about my experience and results? I have so much to share with you!

The Jus by Julie craze has been exploding over the last few months and I wanted to be a part of it. I contacted Julie at a particularly bloated moment during the Passover holiday and told her I wanted to do the juice cleanse as soon as the holiday was over. I met with her soon after and immediately felt the warmth she extends to everyone who walks into her juice bars and the passion she has about nutrition and getting her clients healthy.

I was psyched to start!

Day 1 - The juices felt like a treat. They were refreshing and filling. The juicing schedule is as follows: 8am Morning Glory (a refreshing green juice), 10am Spicy Lemonade (a crisp and cleansing drink), 12 noon Morning Glory, 3pm Acai Berry Juice (a delicious afternoon pick-me-up), 6pm Morning Glory, and 9pm I sland Coconut (a yummy treat that I found to be a huge reward at the end of the day).

Because the juices are full of fiber and I'm a slow drinker, I felt like I had something to consume all day. Around 5 pm I did get really hungry and even felt a little 'high'. It's hard to describe, but I felt slightly tingly and light headed. I also felt like I wasn't thinking as clearly, and I'm sure that was part of the detox my body was experiencing. I chewed on some celery and cucumbers and then the 6 pm Morning Glory filled me up and I was fine. Day one was hardly difficult and I felt the effects immediately. I had been running to the bathroom all day and my stomach was definitely flatter.

Day 2 - I felt great and enjoyed the juices. Although it was the weekend and everyone around me was eating lots of food, I loved the feeling of control and was proud of doing something really healthy for myself. My daughter pointed out that doing the juice cleanse was a great way to psychologically 'reset' myself for a fresh start in healthy eating. I liked that. At about 8pm I started to whine about a pizza craving but the 9 pm Island Coconut drink completely hit the spot. As Julie says, drinking Island Coconut is like having a blood transfusion.

Day 3 - It was Sunday morning and I wasn't in the mood to drink any more juices. But I knew that it was the last day and I was doing it! I wanted real food and was getting really excited about the healthy diet food I would eat once the cleanse was finished. Imagine, I was dreaming of salads! I made lists and went shopping. And each time I drank a juice it took away my hunger. After my final juice I felt light and empty but I also felt like a winner!

Day 4 - I was excited to weigh myself. The scale registered a 2.6 lb loss. Woohoo! I went downstairs to prepare the breakfast I had been dreaming about: A spinach, mushroom egg white omelet with some avocado and a slice of ezekial sprouted bread. A few bites later I felt full and couldn't even finish it!

Today is the second day after the cleanse and I'm still feeling the following positive benefits:

- I crave and drink much more water than I did before, and it seems to taste better.

- My stomach seems to have shrunk and my appetite has been re-set. I used to have a huge appetite and now I am full and satisfied on much less.

- Do you know that heavy lagging feeling you get in the afternoon? Well I don't have it anymore. My energy levels are amazing and my brain is clear.

- I crave fruits and veggies. I used to have an aversion to fruit, but I've been dreaming about eating oranges, mangos, berries and apples...say what? Is this me we're talking about?

To be honest, I did gain back some of the weight after eating real food, but I'm still so glad I did it and will continue to drink Jus by Julie juices as an excellent and healthy supplement to my diet. The positive health benefits of the Jus by Julie juice cleanse far exceed just losing some weight. It re-sets your body and kick starts you into a healthy and wholesome lifestyle.

Julie is passionate about her juices and nutrition, and personally takes care of each of her clients. During the cleanse, I received a text from her daily to find out how I was doing, and that really added a lot of warmth to the experience.

I wanted to learn more so I asked Julie a couple of questions...

What inspired you to start your line of juices?

Through all the dietary theories that I studied, I came to a conclusion that if we don't eat enough greens our body will never function at its peak. For optimum health and energy we need 30 grams of fiber daily, which I knew could not happen by eating three meals and two snacks per day. Let's face it, greens are not our first choice of food! So I invented this green smoothie that my husband and I would drink daily as our first meal. It was amazing, it has loads of fiber, tames your sugar cravings and gives you so much energy. I started to feel leaner and I knew this was a miracle in a bottle. It changed my life and my husband's health. His cholesterol went down by 70 points...amazing! So I decided I needed to get this out and share it with the world.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a certified nutritionist who was inspired by my homemade juices and the benefits they provided for my family and friends. I started telling everyone and all of my health conscious friends wanted to try my juices. I started making home deliveries daily. I woke up at 4 am, blended, and delivered . Before I knew it I was swamped with phone calls for my juice! I felt like this was my calling. People's lives were changing. My family was so proud of me so I went back to school three years ago and majored in nutrition. That was my passion. I said if only I make my family healthy it would be a great accomplishment! Now as a certified nutritionist I am changing people's lives every day. Jus by Julie grew into a family business and now we're on our fourth location and growing.

I'm so proud to say that there's a huge demand for Jus by Julie. If anyone would have asked me last year what I would be doing a year from now I wouldn't believe it. I'm living my passion!

Are you inspired to start juicing? Like Jus by Julie on Facebook and contact her at 718-676-7636.

Here's to a healthy and satisfying week!

Sharon

Spring 2013 Runway Fashion Report

2013-04-08T09:04:00.000-04:00

Fashion seasons can be so confusing. The fashion shows always run two seasons behind...for example this past February we saw what was coming up for this coming Fall. And when we're finally shopping those clothes, the new Spring designs will be coming down the runways. Well here's a blog post that serves you this season's Spring fashions straight up. You see, I saved these runway looks from last September, to post now, when they were actually relevant. Take a look and let me know if you see anything familiar in the stores when you go shopping...

Luisa Beccaria Spring 2013

Guy Laroche Spring 2013

Trussardi Spring 2013

Loewes Spring 2013

Bottega Veneta Spring 2013

Dior Spring 2013

Which looks are your favorites?

Until next time,

Sharon

Friday Food and Favorites: Getting Lean and Green

2013-04-05T15:27:00.002-04:00

Happy weekend everyone! I'm in a great mood and do you know why? Because after a long month of just eating whatever was convenient (between the time I spent in Chicago helping my daughter after the birth of my beautiful new grandson, preparing my home for Passover, and then eating all that heavy holiday food) I'm finally detoxing and trying the Jus by Julie three day detox I've heard so much about. I've been told it's pleasant and easy by some and really difficult by others. But so far...half a day in...I'm feeling amazing. I will let you know how I'm feeling when I'm all finished...so follow me here on Fashion-isha, on my Facebook page and on Instagram...where I'll be posting updates.

So far, this is how it's going: This morning I was psyched to start the juices. My husband offered me coffee and I declined (even though I found out that it's ok to have some coffee with low fat milk in the morning...yay!). The green juice was very fresh and thick and felt like I was eating nature from outdoors. It wasn't sweet but it filled me up and made me feel great. At 10 am I drank the spicy lemonade which I loved and found to be super refreshing. I was beginning to get a caffeine headache so I made a little espresso and after a few sips I felt better. At 12 I had another green juice and I realized that although I felt light and a little hungry, I'm usually much more hungry and cravy at lunchtime...especially on Fridays when I get pizza for my kids! Ok...I'm not going to lie, being alone in the car with two steaming pies of pizza on the way home was not that much fun, but I did feel powerful over the urges and that feeling is better than anything tastes. I'm excited to have the acai juice which I will be drinking as my afternoon snack. As of now I'm a little hungry but not painfully so.

Note: Because I can't drink a lot at a time, my juices last me about an hour so I feel like I'm always close to drinking the next one. This is one of the reasons I'm really enjoying this cleanse so far. I do not feel deprived!

Like Jus by Julie on Facebook to learn more!

Of course, because the theme for today is GREEN, here are some of my favorite green images from Pinterest for you to enjoy:

Photos from HERE

Wishing you all the loveliest of weekends and a wonderful Shabbos!

Sharon

PS My Stella & Dot Trunk Show is still going on. Treat yourself to a stunning GREEN necklace like this one:

Buy this HERE or shop all the fabulous Stella & Dot pieces HERE.

Friday Food and Favorites: Orange Soup (aka Leftovers Soup) and other Original Ideas For Orange

2013-03-29T00:07:00.000-04:00

I'm usually not a fan of the color orange, but I came up with this genius idea for a "leftovers soup" that I just had to share with you all, and with the soup being this rich golden orange color, the idea for this post was born.

Now I know I am probably not the first one who came up with the idea of a leftovers soup, but I was pretty tickled with how fabulous the results were, and even more thrilled that I didn't have to throw out pans of perfectly good food.

Here are the leftovers that I had: Roasted butternut squash, zucchini in tomato sauce, couscous, and chicken soup with matzo balls. I sauteed some onions and dumped all the leftover ingredients into the pot besides for the matzo balls. I then added more water and some more salt, pepper and garlic powder and simmered for 1/2 hour. Then I immersion blended the whole thing and dropped in the matzo balls. YUM! My family polished off the entire soup right away!

Here are some more inspiring ways to include the color orange in your life:

Accessorize your outfit with a bold orange clutch...

Accessorize a room with this vibrant hue...make it modern!

Or make it rustic by tying a burnt orange ribbon around your cutlery for your next dinner party.

Cool off warm orange tones by pairing it with cool blue, like this...

...or this.

Try it on your lips...

Pair it with hot pink for a popping party theme:

Bring a dull corner of your home to life by creating a fun orange inspired home office:

Choose orange for your next fabulous gown:

Until next time... have a wonderful Shabbos, a fabulous weekend and for those who celebrate Passover...Moadim B'Simcha...have a joyous holiday!

Sharon

Shop my Stella & Dot Trunk Show HERE and be entered to win a gorgeous pair of earrings!

You're Invited to my Stella & Dot Trunk Show!

2013-03-24T15:01:00.000-04:00

I'm hosting a Stella & Dot Trunk Show and your invitation is HERE!

(Trunk show is good from 3/24 until 4/14)

Treat yourself to a beautiful new piece of jewelry this Pesach. You deserve it!

(I'll be enjoying these gorgeous earrings this Yom Tov)

Take a break from all your Passover preparations, pour yourself a cup of yummy coffee, check out some fabulous, celebrity-coveted jewelry, and join me for a few minutes of style! The jewelry has been seen in Lucky Magazine, InStyle and on countless celebrities. Designed in New York and San Francisco, the pieces are so irresistible and affordable, you’ll be certain to find a little something special. Please feel free to share this party with your friends via Facebook, Twitter and email. Take a break from the kids and join me for some much-needed girl time. To view the collection or shop my Trunk Show online, please paste this URL into your browser:

http://www.stelladot.com/ts/gkio5

This month's trunk show exclusive includes gorgeous silver statements. Click HERE to shop:

Here are some of my fabulous favorites from Stella & Dot:

GIVEAWAY!

With every Stella & Dot purchase you make you receive entry to WIN these gorgeous Fiona earrings!!

All you have to do is visit Stella & Dot and buy yourself a beautiful gift, then leave a comment here telling us which item you purchased. You must be a follower of Fashion-isha on Google, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to be entered. Please include in your comment how you are following. Thanks and good luck!

Have a happy and healthy Passover!

Sharon

Friday Food and Favorites: Passover Made Easy and Pencil Dresses

2013-03-22T00:04:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since we've had a Friday Food and Favorites, and I figured that right before Passover would be a great time to post something inspiring for all you out there getting creative in the kitchen. I was so excited to find out that I won the fun and fabulous new cookbook, Passover Made Easy by Leah Schapira of CookKosher and Victoria Dwek, from one of my favorite food blogs, Busy in Brooklyn.

Since I'm not a recipe book kind of gal, it takes a lot for me to really enjoy one. Well, last night, after cooking up some delectable dishes for Passover, I collapsed on my couch with a glass of some of the remaining wine I used for cooking, and opened up my new copy of Passover Made Easy. The first thing I noticed was that the book was well designed and fun to read...I felt as if I was shmoozing with some friends over Passover recipes. I tried the heavenly eggplant-wrapped chicken recipe that was featured on Busy in Brooklyn (click link below for recipe) and I'm dying to try the roasted tomato and eggplant soup as well. Those are just two of the many fun and unique recipes that take Passover cooking into a vast culinary world outside of your basic meat and potatoes.

Eggplant-wrapped chicken

So, if you haven't gotten your copy yet, it's not too late to pick one up and try some of those wonderful recipes for Passover. Buy your copy right here:

Now, let's talk about what to wear on Passover. I'm a huge fan of the pencil skirt because it's a timeless classic that always looks polished. So how about a pencil dress for the holiday? I've had women complain to me that they feel like they have to be pencil thin to wear a pencil anything, and it's just not true. If you find a style that you love and that fits correctly (a good tailor is a must for adjusting dresses to work with your body type) you will feel absolutely beautiful wearing a pencil dress.

Here are some pencil dress inspirations:

This LBD gets an upgrade with some whimsical stitching:

Try a patterned dress with a leather belt

How about a pencil dress in a soft color for Spring?

Here's another LBD embellished with some sparkle!

Try a dress with terrific texture...

...or a wonderfully designed silhouette.

Here are some pencil dresses I personally chose for you...click on each dress to shop!

The Pencil Dress

Black Dresses
Cocktail Dresses

Day Dresses
Black Dresses

Have a wonderful weekend and a beautiful Shabbos...

...and get some rest!

Sharon

Hair Trend Report: Beach Waves

2013-03-20T10:01:00.000-04:00

Who's ready for the beach? I am! Although it's finally Spring and Pesach is upon us, the weather has been dreary and cold. Just two nights ago I got caught in a treacherous snow storm on my way to NYC for an engagement party. It felt to me more like January than March. And I keep thinking about last year at this time when I was flying off to Miami for a nice recovery Passover from my kidney donation (see story here and here). But this year I'm happy to be staying home. I'm excited about being in the comfort of my own home for the holiday. The weather is the weather and we will have to deal with it.

And yet when I glance up from my never ending to do list and all I see is a gray, gloomy sky, I do occasionally dream about hot, sunny days on the beach. (Do they even exist? I'm not sure I remember.)

Well how about bringing a little beachiness to your life by styling your hair or wig with beach waves? It's a look that seems easy enough but sometimes is actually not so simple to achieve. One of the factors I looked for in my new Freeda wig was that it would dry naturally with nice texture and waves...kind of like what my real hair used to do. It can sometimes be difficult to achieve that with a wig but my Freeda wig performed really well!

Last week when I was staying at my daughter's place to help her with her new baby, I realized I wouldn't have a chance to have my wig done before Pesach. One late night I bathed my wig in the shower and let it dry naturally. Sure enough it dried with lots of natural waves. I did end up taking it to a professional for a touch up, but seriously, if you want a natural looking wig with texture I would highly recommend a Freeda Wig.

I love this look because it's not too set. After all, not everyone looks like a Hollywood starlet on the cover of a magazine every day. I prefer to look real and natural...it's so beautiful.

Here's how to try beach waves on your own....add the following ingredients to warm water, spray, twist your hair/wig in sections, let air dry. Voila! You'll have beautiful beach waves in no time!

Would you try this style for yourself?

Here's to better weather and warmer days!

Until next time,

Sharon

Pesach Is Coming...What Will We Eat? Salads!

2013-03-16T23:40:00.001-04:00

I'm not a food blogger. But when it comes to Jewish holidays it's all about the food. Come on, you all know what I'm talking about. Sure we ~~like~~ have to shop for new clothes for ourselves and our kids, and there's lots of other prep going on when it comes to Passover. The cleaning seems to overwhelm people a lot (hint: get yourself good cleaning help), but it's the food preparation that really makes us nuts.

Here are some things you may hear from otherwise perfectly sane and put-together women in the weeks before Pesach:

"I just finished making my 10th chocolate mousse..I'm offering a dessert menu with different choices at every meal."

"I just finished my 10th trip to the grocery store, every time I start a new recipe I realize I forgot something."

"Last night I was up until 2 am cooking. My freezer is loaded with 10 different kinds of kugels."

"I've been cooking and baking in my Pesach kitchen for 10 weeks already."

Seriously?

How about 10 ideas to get out of that cramped Pesach kitchen and simplify your life??

Let me tell you how I do Passover. I don't have (or want) a Pesach kitchen. I start cooking for Pesach a couple of days before. I also like to cook my side dishes and prepare my salads fresh before each meal. This breaks down all that planning and anxiety into little manageable packages. There's a list of things to do in advance and a list of things to do before each meal. The food is simple, fresh and delicious; and I haven't extended my stress for weeks and weeks. And desserts? What's wrong with fresh fruit, nuts, chocolate, sorbet, ice cream and one bowl brownies? They're the perfect ending to a delicious meal.

The one thing I like to get creative with on Passover is my salads. With an endless variety of wonderful fruits and veggies that we can eat, there's no reason not to include lots of healthy salad to your Pesach meals. So I decided to dedicate this post to salads.

Here are 10 beautiful salads, all in one place and all at your fingertips. Click on each title for the original recipe.

Note: Recipes may need to be slightly modified for Passover, kashrus and non-dairy use.

FRUITY SPINACH SALAD

PAPAYA, BLACKBERRY, AVOCADO SALAD WITH PINEAPPLE DRESSING

SPINACH SALAD WITH APPLE AND ARTICHOKES

KALE SALAD WITH APPLE AND ORANGES

CHOPPED WINTER SALAD

BEAUTIFUL WATERMELON SALAD

MUSHROOM CRANBERRY SALAD

FUJI APPLE CHICKEN SALAD

CHILLED ASPARAGUS SALAD

CHICKEN SALAD STUFFED AVOCADOS

Here's to an easy and stress-free week of pre-Passover preparations!

Sharon

Tuesday Shoe Day: The Best (and most interesting) Shoes From The Fall 2013 Runways

2013-03-12T18:52:00.002-04:00

Happy Tuesday! I saw these shoe roundups on Fashionista.com (I love that site) and decided they would make a really fun post for today. Runway shows are not only about the clothes that will be in style next season, but also about the hair and makeup trends, and of course, the shoes! Which shoe styles will be hitting the stores this coming Fall? Take a look...

All photo collages are from www.fashionista.com

Here's my roundup of these shoes:

Most fabulous: D&G and Prada

Most wearable: Marc Jacobs

Most innovative: Dior

Most ladylike: Roberto Cavalli

Most retro: Marc Jacobs (40's) and Gucci (70's)

Most fashion forward: Fendi

Best boots: Chanel

My favorite: The red and gold Pradas

The ones I'd most likely wear in real life: Louis Vuitton

What are your favorites? Which ones would you most likely to wear?

Happy Tuesday Shoe Day!!

Sharon

It's Not Always Black and White

2013-03-10T17:10:00.001-04:00

Hey there...for those of you who haven't heard, I recently became a grandma...yup, it's hard to believe but it's true. And ever since early, early last Tuesday morning, my life and has changed forever...once again. You see, I'm a mom of 5. And before each new child came along, I really had no idea how life would be after the baby came. And then all at once, I was in a new universe, and I couldn't imagine how life ever was before the baby. And it's kind of the same...kind of...becoming a grandma.

This is NOT my actual grandson...just a pretty photo from http://followushere.wordpress.com/tag/baby/

I had no idea what it would be like to be a grandma. I heard many different things, but I now believe that each grandma's experience is very unique. For me, still being a young mom myself, and being really close with my daughter, it hasn't been a "hold-the-baby-for-five-minutes-and-give-back" experience at all. I've been more of a mommy's-mommy grandma. The line is tight and close.

Besides for a couple of times when I briefly reminisced about what it was like to climb into my own bed without worrying about the baby waking up my daughter (which actually kind of felt the same as worrying if the baby would wake me), I've been entirely enmeshed in a different and wonderful universe.

I vaguely remember those days of peaceful bedtimes...

And amid helping my daughter get acclimated, caring for the baby (my favorite!), doing errands, preparing food, managing visits and feeding other family members, the lesson I have to keep remembering is that things are not always black and white.

Everyone needs to eat...preferably something more nutritious than this fabulous cake!

We must be flexible. Babies are unpredictable, and so are we. We have to learn to roll with the punches, go with the flow, and smile through the unexpected. And isn't that a life lesson for all of us always? Life is a constant metamorphosis.

Things may get stressful no matter where we are in life. And sometimes during the most wondrous times, the potential for stress (especially when combined with lack of sleep), can be at its highest. The key is to alway focus on the beautiful gifts right before our eyes.

Wishing you all a wonderful week...

Sharon

Wedding Wednesday: The Juicy Colors Of Spring

2013-03-06T22:38:00.000-05:00

Get ready for some delicious gown candy! Although Winter seems to be lingering on for dear life, Spring is thankfully right around the corner. If you're looking for a departure from basic black, navy or neutrals, here are some fun inspirations in juicy colors - think lemon, tangerine, grape, cherry, lime and strawberries. Yum!

Georges Hobeika

Abed Mahfouz

Hugo Boss

Armani Privé

Gucci

Valentino

Never be afraid to be bold and wear color!

Sharon

How Do I Make These Modest??

2013-03-03T23:46:00.001-05:00

Admit it. Sometimes my blog and Facebook page can be quite frustrating. Don't think I don't know it. People ask me all the time, "Why do you post beautiful clothing without knowing where it's from?" or "Why do you post such expensive pieces? Where can I get similar looks for less?" And I always answer that I post only for style inspiration. I post so you can go to the store and put looks together using your own creativity. Maybe you'll try something you wouldn't normally think of because of something I posted. Or maybe you'll just know what's in style this season so you have a mental road map before you go shopping. Or maybe you'll decide to dress a bit more modestly because you know you can, and still look fabulous.

But ultimately, we'd love to take those gorgeous street style and runway looks that aren't all that modest and figure out how to wear them modestly and stay consistent with our personal standards. And believe me, living amongst so many chic and fabulous orthodox women has shown me many creative ways of pulling off that 'divine and refined' look we all try to achieve every morning. At the simplest level there are shells and pencil skirts to slip underneath just about anything. But come on, we know that's not the most attractive look. To take fashion to the next level you have to become your own designer. You need to be confidant and creative.

So in this post I decided to show a few of the NON-MODEST looks I fell in love with recently, and how I would make them modest, without losing the uniqueness of the designs. But keep in mind, my opinions are exactly that: opinions. And that's the beauty of being able to take a gorgeous piece of clothing and customizing it to your needs. There are no wrong choices. If you dream it, then do it. Get yourself a great tailor and the sky will be your limit in what you can wear (with a few exceptions...see my personal dilemma *below).

Look # 1 - The Oscars

Aah, the Oscars. Like any other fashion loving American I drool over the fabulous gowns that go down the red carpet; but as a modest fashion blogger, it's a totally different story. I actually cringe at the minimal amount of (usually ugly) modest choices that show up in dribs and (literally) drabs. But a gown like this one worn by Zoe Saldana, is so beautiful. Let's figure out how to make it modest, without losing its fabulousness.

Let's face it, aesthetically, to the average human eye, very little can beat shoulders topping a gown. Yet when covered, the focus moves up to a gorgeous face, sparkling eyes and the essence of a woman. The dress should be a reflection of that inner beauty. For this dress I would add fabric to create a simple neckline and 3/4 sleeves and, because the floral embellishment around the bust is so fabulous, I'd move it to the shoulder area and have them drip elegantly down the upper arms of the dress. Can you visualize that? (In my opinion, the bow belt and the flowers are too close to each other anyway.)

Look # 2 - The Runway

Although there are plenty of modest runway looks, I always feel a little cheated when I can't include in my posts many of the beautiful designs that can be simply modified to fit our needs. They should not be left out! This dress is an updated version of a color blocked classic and something most of us would wear. Of course you could always just add a shell underneath, but that's just a really uninspired way of losing the integrity of the style. Let's look at this dress from an artistic perspective and get creative. I would build up the neckline with the white fabric and add 3 taupe bands that mirror the belt to the added "V" inset. Doing that would prevent an 'added-on' look, while the bands keep with the integrity of the graphic style of the dress. I would add simple sleeves, but I would end them with elegant points that would mirror the triangular shape of the shoulder. What do you think of that?

Look # 3 - At a Premiere

Okay I love this Gucci dress. It's insane and a bit strange, but that just makes me love it more. The length is easy to fix. I would just extend the bottom. But what would you do with that bold mesh top?? Well, I would stick with the futuristic vibe of this dress and simply line it with a metallic silver. And then I would add over sized silver cuff bracelets on each arm. Fabulous, don't you think? What would you do?

* Look #4 - The Dilemma

And here's where I always run into my biggest modest fashion dilemma. The full mini skirt presents a problem I have not been able to solve yet, and maybe you have a solution that can help me. There are so many times I find a skirt that I absolutely love and there's just no way to make it longer. With a pencil skirt it's not really a problem because you can always add something (fabric, trim, lace...etc.) and create a whole new look. But what do I do with a full or pleated skirt? Zippers and hips wider than waist create issues with adding a panel at the top. So if you have any creative ideas about this dilemma please leave a comment below and let me know!

I hope you liked this post. If you have any pictures you'd like me to "modest-ize" for you send them to me at @ ask.fashionisha@gmail.com and we can do this again!

Wishing you all wonderful week!

Sharon