NYC, Style and a little Cannoli

Come Support Mr. Bones at Kiehl's Stores & Online

2012-06-02T00:30:00.000-04:00

On June 2, Kiehl’s Since 1851 will install 13 very specially designed versions of our icon Mr. Bones in our New York-area stores. Encompassing celebrity partners, a charitable donation, and customer interaction, the Meet Mr. Bones project serves to engage and entertain all of our customers. Kiehl's is one of my favorite shops and their products represent high quality and amazing results. This Mr. Bones campaign is a fun one that teaches as well as raises money for various charities.

Meet Mr. Bones honors Kiehl’s icon, Mr. Bones, the life-size teaching skeleton that holds a place of honor in all of our stores, as it is a part of our apothecary legacy—back when Kiehl’s was still a pharmacy, Mr. Aaron Morse, pharmacist and Kiehl’s founding father, would use a teaching skeleton to explain ailments and prescribe different remedies to his customers.

This spring, Kiehl’s celebrates our own icon by partnering with 13 icons in their own right for our first public art installation. Each of our partners was given free rein to design and build his or her own Mr. Bones, and each will be on display for six weeks at the seven New York metro-area Kiehl’s stores, June 2 through July 14^th.

Our iconic partners, each of whom is participating on behalf of their chosen charity, are:

Alicia Keys

Costello Tagliapietra

David Chang with Steve Keene

Desi Santiago

Frank Kozik

Kenny Scharf

Nathan Sawaya

Olek (Agata Oleksiak)

Padma Lakshmi

Tats Cru

Timothy White

Terry Richardson

Zach Galifianakis

For their participation in the project, $200,000 will be donated to organizations supporting Children, the Environment, and HIV/AIDS causes worldwide that were chosen by our partners. And, at the end of 2012, each of these Mr. Bones will be auctioned off to further benefit each charity.

Beginning June 2, not only will the public be able to view all 13 of the Mr. Bones throughout the NY area, but we’re also launching an in-store and digital extravaganza where our guests can learn more about the project, and enter to win one of 206 prizes, one for every bone in the skeleton!

· Photos and Videos from each partner describing their Mr. Bones will be available on https://www.facebook.com/KiehlsSince1851

· IN OUR STORES: Visitors who participate in a complimentary skin care consultation or 20-minute facial, or make a purchase at Kiehl’s New York metro-area stores will get a chance to win prizes including Kiehl’s gift cards (valued from $25 to $500) and full-size Kiehl’s products, T-shirts, and even a dermatologist visit with Kiehl’s consulting dermatologist Dr. Adam Geyer. To enter to win, guests will get to choose a Kiehl’s packette sample out of a box, and if it’s specially marked to win, they’ll win a prize!

Alicia Keys "Mr. Bones"

· IN OUR STORES VIA TWITTER: Visitors who Tweet their check in or photo of Mr. Bones from any retail store and include #MrBones and #KiehlsGives, can win prizes that include a $500 Kiehl’s gift card. Kiehls Twitter can be found HERE.

· ON FACEBOOK: Visitors to Kiehl’s Facebook page will be able to personalize and style their own Mr. Bones, save it to the Kiehl’s gallery, and enter to win prizes including a $1,000 Kiehl’s gift card. Your personalized Mr. Bones can also be saved and shared on your personal Facebook page.

The 13 Mr. Bones will be on display during store hours at the following Kiehl’s free-standing stores:

· Kiehl’s Since 1851, 109 Third Avenue, New York

· Kiehl’s Since 1851, 154 Columbus Avenue, New York

· Kiehl’s Since 1851, 841 Lexington Ave., New York

· Kiehl’s Since 1851, 400 W. 14th St., New York, NY

· Kiehl’s Since 1851, Roosevelt Field Mall, 630 Old Country Rd., Garden City, NY

· Kiehl’s Since 1851, Garden State Plaza, 355 Route 17 North, One Garden State Plaza, Paramus, NJ

· Kiehl’s Since 1851, The Mall at Short Hills, 1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills

I would highly suggest if you are near any one of their stores, to pop in and enjoy some of these works of art. A free facial or skin care consult with the Kiehl's staff is a great way to pamper yourself with their fabulous products!!

South Street Seaport's Gorgeous Views

2012-06-01T00:30:00.000-04:00

South Street Seaport is really a wonderful place especially in the warmer months. It gives you a bit of calm, in a city known for being crazy 100% of the time. I do like the crazy myself, but this is nice too.

You can walk the Brooklyn Bridge on a lovely weather day.........

Explore large ships ..........

A fun time for the young boys and men in your life ........

Who would not love this view? To the right, I see one of my favorite buildings, The Chrysler Building.

If you have the chance to visit this area, I would say to do so. You have shopping, restaurants, the wonderful Fulton Stall Market on Saturdays/Sundays with live music. It is just another spectacular part of New York City that makes you smile!!

Today's Words of Wisdom: Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people. - Eleanor Roosevelt

Photo Gallery Thursday "SICIS Funky Pink Chair"

2012-05-31T00:30:00.000-04:00

When walking in Soho, you never know what you will find. This really funky chair caught my eye at the shop SICIS , an art factory. They make amazing mosaics as well as jewelry. Located on Broome Street, you can stop by MarieBelle Cafe for a light bite afterwards!

Schiaparelli and Prada Press Preview at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

2012-05-30T00:30:00.000-04:00

I am trying to come up with the appropriate words for this post. I am honored to say I am an approved member of the press for the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This museum is one of the best in the world. It is a place where I remember being taken as a small child by my godmother, who got me hooked on New York City. My thoughts on this day, going as press, attending before anyone else, while the museum was closed to the public, I cannot express. I kept thinking, I hope they let me in! This is for sure a must see place on your list when visiting the city. Here we go:

When I arrived, the unsung heros were there getting that red carpet ready. A father asked for a piece of it for his child while watching them work, they did give him some but I felt it was more maybe for the mom than the child.

The red carpet in the museum looked quite fabulous. This fashionable lady walking along with all the great statues around her. What a lovely scene!!

The Met's Spring 2012 Costume Institute exhibition, Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations, explores the striking affinities between Elsa Schiaparelli and Miuccia Prada, two Italian designers from different eras. Inspired by Miguel Covarrubias's "Impossible Interviews" for Vanity Fair in the 1930s, the exhibition features orchestrated conversations between these iconic women to suggest new readings of their most innovative work. Iconic ensembles are presented with videos of simulated conversations between Schiaparelli and Prada directed by Baz Luhrmann, focusing on how both women explore similar themes in their work through very different approaches. - from the Metropolitan Museum of Art Website

It is very cool to see the 2 designers talking to each other throughout the exhibit

This wedding gown was so breathtaking I could not even imagine being able to wear this

Elsa Schiaparelli

Veil, spring 1938
Cotton net embroidered with blue glass bugle beads
Philadelphia Museum of Art; Gift of Mme Elsa Schiaparelli, 1969

Accessories that would make any woman fall to her knees!!

I found the waistlines very interesting

Some of my absolute favorites were the following:

Miuccia Prada
Skirt, autumn/winter 1999–2000
Green wool twill embroidered with blue plastic leaves and green and brown
leather insects
Courtesy of Prada

Bill Cunningham from the New York Times

Can you spot Bill Cunningham's shadow?

I also found in the gift shop, The Sartorialist, Scott Schuman, among those browsing around !!

2 fashionable ladies leaving the exhibit, walking in front of me, possible to be photographed by Mr. Schurman at some point throughout the day!!

Hope you enjoyed some views of this amazing exhibit! It runs until August 19, 2012

Catalog can be purchased HERE

Today's Words of Wisdom

Schiaparelli: Dalí was a constant caller. We devised together … the black hat in the
form of a shoe with a Shocking velvet heel standing up like a small column. …
There was another hat resembling a lamb cutlet with a white frill on the bone, and
this, more than anything else, contributed to [my] fame for eccentricity.
Prada: I’m more known for my shoes. For me, shoes are where I can express my
fantasy, my imagination. I think you have much more freedom to be outrageous
with shoes. There is more room for craziness, for exaggeration. In my spring 2012
collection, for instance, my shoes resembled Cadillacs, complete with tail lights.

Goorin Bros Hat Shop in the West Village

2012-05-29T00:30:00.000-04:00

I had the recent chance to head to the West Village, one of my favorite parts of the city, to see what is new. I was thrilled to find Goorin Brothers Hat Shop on Bleecker Street. I cannot tell you what a joy this shop was and meeting the shopkeeper, Gya Watson. This felt like we were going back in time. The popular television shows such as Downton Abbey, Mad Men and Boardwalk Empire, I feel are bringing hats back in style. My mom says in her day, people always wore a hat to church. Hats were a very important part of your wardrobe. I would also have to say Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, shows us how to wear hats in every day life.

As we walked in, we could have been walking into a shop in 1925.

Here is an old family photo, where the men had the style of the era. So dapper and suave looking they were at that time. They would have so enjoyed Goorin Brothers Hat Shop !!

Gya, the shopkeeper, was just a wonderful person to assist you with your hat selection.

Trying on the hats is so much fun! Even if you are not purchasing all that you try on, it is really cool to see how the different styles change your look.

The selection is quite varied, from styles to colors, something for everyone. Goorin began in 1895 when Cassel Goorin sold his first hat from a horse cart in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His sons, the Goorin Brothers, moved the family business to San Francisco in 1949.

Today the shop is lead by Cassel's great-grandson, who is dedicated to making the same craftsmanship which began in 1895. The shop just gives you such a cozy feel. There are many locations throughout the USA, and a listing can be found HERE.

These Panama Hats are just amazing.........

I love the brick in the shop, the fabulous Goorin Bros. sign just fits right in perfectly

The hat boxes are vintage looking, and so fabulous to carry out with your purchase

Here is Gya wrapping someone's purchase. If you do not receive a hat box, they have this wonderful vintage paper to wrap and protect your hat.

I expected a horse and buggy to go by looking out the window!!

Gya now placing the hat in a fabulous Goorin Bros. bag which is presentation at it's best

So please be sure to stop by this very unique shop on Bleecker Street. You will really enjoy the atmosphere, the merchandise, and the customer service while you are shopping and/or browsing.

Goorin Brothers Hat Shop

337 Bleecker Street

NY, NY 10014

Ph 212-256-1895

Fax 212-256-8983

GWatson@goorin.com

Today's Words of Wisdom: Cock your Hat - Angles are Attitudes - Frank Sinatra

Happy Memorial Day 2012

2012-05-28T00:30:00.000-04:00

These are some photos from the 2011 Philadelphia International Flower Show. Hope that you all have a fabulous Memorial Day. Let us keep in our thoughts the men and women who fought for the freedom of this country. This is also a day to remember those who are no longer with us, they are always in our hearts.

The French Open 2012 Starts Today!!

2012-05-27T01:00:00.000-04:00

photos from 2012 French Open Store

Today is the start of the 2nd grand slam tennis tournament of the year, The French Open. I know I have many new followers of this blog, so they may not know about my interest in tennis. I have been following since I was young, and have been attending the US Open since 1995. I love photographing the players, it kind of takes me to another world, to be honest. When I am in that zone, I become someone else. I thought I would celebrate today with some of my photos from previous US Open's I have attended. The French Open is played on red clay, and Rafael Nadal has won an amazing 6 times! Tennis is a very elequant sport, the women played in the 1920's in dresses, and if you have the chance to see it live, be sure to do so. It is amazing what these guys and girls can do to make that little yellow ball hit right on those lines. Hope you enjoy my photos:

Maria Kirilenko 2007 US Open

Novak Djokovic 2007 US Open

Current #1 player in the world

Maria Sharapova 2004 US Open

Marat Safin 2007 US Open

Li Na 2011 US Open

The 2011 French Open Champion

Feliciano Lopez 2011 US Open

Victoria Azerenka 2011 US Open

Current #1 player in the world

Rafael Nadal 2011 US Open

Ana Ivanovic 2010 US Open

Vintage Andre Agassi with Brad Gilbert in the background

Some great websites to follow all the action are:
Tennis Panorama News
NY Times Tennis Page
Down the Line Tennis

My post on the 2011 Wilson Fashion Show can be found HERE working as photographer with Tennis Panorama News.

Enjoy the tournament,and if you are a tennis fan, Who are your faves to win? I am going with Nadal and Sharapova myself.

Today's Words of Wisdom: Life is a Great Bundle of Little Things

Walking Around the Brooklyn Flea

2012-05-25T00:30:00.000-04:00

The Brooklyn Flea is just a real fabulous event. I thought we would take a little stroll to check out the antiques, the food, and vintage items that can be found here. Here is some information on the flea from their website:

Founded in April 2008, Brooklyn Flea has grown into one of New York City's top attractions, operating flea markets every weekend of the year that feature hundreds of top vendors of antique and repurposed furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles and antiques, as well as a tightly curated selection of jewelry, art, and crafts by local artisans and designers, plus delicious fresh food. The New York Times called the Flea "One of the great urban experiences in New York"; Travel + Leisure, Country Living, Budget Travel, and Delta Sky ranked the Flea one of the best markets or antiques shows in the U.S.; and Time Out NY named the Flea one of New York's Essential Pick-Up Spots.

Right now the Flea is open every Saturday and Sunday at Skylight One Hanson, an event space in the landmark former Williamsburgh Savings Bank. The market features mix of 100+ vendors on three floors, including the lower-level vault and upstairs mezzanine: click here for a map and directions.

From April through Thanksgiving, the markets take place outdoors: on Saturdays in Fort Greene and on Sundays in Williamsburg. From Thanksgiving through March, the market moves indoors to Skylight One Hanson. And every summer you can find Flea food vendors at the Central Park SummerStage outdoor concert series, where the Flea operates the food and beverage concession.

totally vintage typewriter

Salvatore Bklyn has homemade ricotta, for fabulous cannoli filling as well as fresh prosciutto

so loving the light fixtures here

These were so different and tasty. It is so neat to find foods you may never get to try in your hometown.

The flea has items for the guys, too, like these cool guitars. Women who play would be excited to see these as well.

Lobster Rolls. I do not need to say any more.

Porchetta is a favorite Italian pork treat and this place in New York City is one of the best. My mom makes a pretty good one at home, although it is not made as often as I would like.

Does that not look amazing?? With a wonderful homemade Italian roll, you are set. A smile on your face will for sure appear.

Saltie had some great food items as well ....so many to choose from here you cannot go wrong.

These sandwiches looked good and somewhat light too.

The views are amazing and it is a relaxing day from the fast pace of Manhattan.

Be sure to add the Brooklyn Flea to your travel list when visiting New York City !!

Today's Words of Wisdom: We Get What We Give

Photo Gallery Thursday "Chocolate Strawberries"

2012-05-24T01:00:00.000-04:00

Chocolate covered strawberries. This is for sure the time for them. They photograph well, but not really my favorite. If was going to eat a strawberry, might as well have some chocolate around it! Hope you have a most fabulous Thursday! One more day to the weekend!!

Coffee Beanery Review and Giveaway!!

2012-05-22T18:25:00.000-04:00

I am thrilled to bring you another fabulous coffee giveaway! I am such a lover of coffee, and I love to try different flavors as well. I pretty much like it any way, hot - iced - with or without milk -

The Coffee Beanery is a company that has been around since 1976 and here is some info from their website:

Coffee Beanery opened its first stores in the United States in 1976, before the American public knew the term “specialty coffee.” In the 30 years that have followed, Coffee Beanery continues to build its brand and franchise organization on the principles of time-tested and honored traditions and values. Exceptional coffee, a warm relaxing environment, and a corporate culture that embraces its franchisees with every opportunity to succeed exemplify these values. Today, Coffee Beanery has over 100 locations throughout the U.S., 20 locations internationally, and is recognized as an industry leader for its unique family business approach, corporate culture and commitment to quality.

You can sense the difference the moment you arrive at our 45,000 square-foot Flushing, Michigan, facility which houses our corporate headquarters, production facility where all of our hand-selected beans are roasted, flavored and packaged, and our warehousing and distribution center. The abundant aroma of fresh roasted coffee surrounds you in a professional environment where every Coffee Beanery team member is committed to the same core values that our founders, JoAnne and Julius Shaw, established in the early 1970s.

They also donate coffee to the troops, which I think is such a fabulous idea! You can read about that on their website HERE.

Some of the flavors are:

French Toast, which I have tried and is so darn yummy

A unique flavor here, Fiesta Mocha, coffee with a kick

Carrot Cake Coffee !!

Smores !!

The Giveaway:

Sure to please just about anybody, our Treasure Chest of Coffee offers a wonderful assortment of our specialty gourmet coffee. Great for any occasion!

The Fabulous Gift basket includes:

1-1.75oz Colombian Supremo

1-1.75oz Beanery Blend®

1-1.75oz Italian Dark Roast

1-1.75oz Toasted Almond

1-1.75oz Caramel Apple

1-1.75oz Vanilla Nut Cream

1-1.75oz Chocolate Raspberry

1-1.75oz Double Dutch Fudge

1-1.75oz Swiss Mocha Almond

1-1.75oz Hazelnut

1-1.75oz Crème Brulee

1-1.75oz Breakfast Blend

1-1.75oz Pumpkin Spice

1-1.75oz Sumatra Mandheling

1-1.75oz Michigan Cherry

REQUIRED ENTRY

Be a Google Friend Connect follower OR an Email Subscriber via Feedburner....leave a comment stating what type of coffee from the Coffee Beanery you would like to try.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Sign up to receive NYC, Style & a little Cannoli daily emails via feedburner & leave a comment saying you did or already follow.

2. Follow Coffee Beanery on TWITTER and tweet this giveaway & leave a comment saying you did.

3. Follow NYC, Style and a little Cannoli on TWITTER and tweet this giveaway & leave a comment you did.
4. "Like" Joe Hotcup on Facebook - leave a comment you did so

5. Follow NYC Style and a little Cannoli on Pinterest & comment saying you did or already follow.

6. “Like” NYC, Style and a little Cannoli on Facebook –.leave a comment you did or already are a follower.

I need to be able to contact you should you be the lucky winner, so please be sure I can email you or I will need to choose another winner.

Details: This giveaway is open to US Residents and will remain open until June 3rd at 11:59 p.m. EST. Any comments left after this time will not be counted. The winner will be selected randomly and will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to claim their prize. Good Luck to Everyone!!

FTC Disclosure:
I have received 6 packages of coffee from Coffee Beanery to sample but have not received any monetary compensation for posting this content. I have no material connection to the brands, topics and/or products that are mentioned herein. Coffee Beanery will be providing this giveaway to the winner. My opinions are 100% my own.

Photo Gallery Tuesday "Sheep Meadow"

2012-05-22T01:00:00.000-04:00

This is Sheep Meadow, in the fabulous park that is called Central. Open from May to mid-October, this is a wonderful time of the year to visit. The name came from the 200 sheep placed here in 1864, and housed in a Victorian building within the Meadow. Then, in 1934, they were moved to Prospect Park, Brooklyn and were replaced with Tavern on the Green. It is quite lovely to pick up some food items, and bring it here on a glorious day, and enjoy the view. New York City does not get any better than a picnic in Central Park.

Spindrift - a Natural Soda Collection

2012-05-21T00:30:00.000-04:00

I was contacted by Kathryn, regarding a new idea for soda by the company Spindrift and was really excited about it. I am not a big soda drinker, I really try to stick to water because soda is just not good for you. Every once in a while, I indulge, but not often. Spindrift has taken the love of soda, but has joined it with all natural ingredients. It is as they say, an "anti-soda" because it is made from fresh squeezed fruit (pulp and all) with carbonated triple filtered water along with cane sugar .

Here is a link about the production process: HERE

The Orange Mango was a real light and airy treat. It basically tasted like eating both fruits at the same time. The flavor was amazing and this makes a great summer time drink.

I am not a fan of lemonade, but this was really quite tasty. My mom loves anything lemon, so she had most of this one. Just a really light, refreshing drink and you can really taste the lemon flavor.

Blackberry is another wonderful flavor they offer. I really like the fact that these are made from real juices and natural ingredients. If you are going to indulge on some soda, Spindrift is a good choice. You can click HERE on their website to see what flavors are carried in your local stores. Online shopping is also available on their website.

Do let me know if you try it, what your thoughts were! I think you will really enjoy it very much.

FTC Disclosure:

I have not received any monetary compensation for posting this content and I have no material connection to the brands, topics and/or products that are mentioned herein. I was provided with 6 bottles of Spindrift Soda for this review. My opinions are 100% my own.

Christian Louboutin at Saks Fifth Avenue

2012-05-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

When I visited the city in March, 2012, Saks was celebrating 20 years of the shoe master himself, Christian Louboutin

there were so many gorgeous selections and I wonder, what did we do before he made this little works of art for your feet?

photo above from Saks website showing those famous red soles

I am not really a high-heel person, but since this is a wedge, maybe I can work with it!

Today's Words of Wisdom: Clothes Can Be Bought, Style One Must Possess - Coco Chanel

The Fashions at the 2012 Philadelphia International Flower Show "Hawaii"

2012-05-18T01:00:00.000-04:00

The Philadelphia International Flower show in March was really quite a tribute to Hawaii. It took you back to the islands and if you have never visited, you had the chance to visit in Philadelphia! The Hawaiian fashions were really gorgeous, so I thought I would share with you these beautiful designs:

There was even a giant waterfall as well, and the colors changed with the music. Have you ever been to Hawaii? What was your favorite part ? Do tell .........

Today's Words of Wisdom: Education begins at Home

Rare Bar and Grill Chelsea

2012-05-17T01:00:00.000-04:00

We are now having dinner at the Rare Bar & Grill Chelsea located in the Hilton New York Fashion District. We stayed here for the 2011 Chocolate Show and may stay again this year. There is also another location on Lexington at the Affinia Shelbourne Hotel if you are in that area.

This is the entrance from the lobby of the hotel. It is a very modern design.

You have 2 floors of seating here, and reservations can be made on Open Table, which I always suggest

This is the view from upstairs, which I thought was pretty cool

I enjoyed the modern decor of the restaurant

a simple salad which was fresh and tasty

grilled tuna steak with fried wonton crips and a teriyaki honey soy reduction

crab cake burger, so yummy and all crab no filler

never had a fried oreo, so this was the time to try them - amazing -

the view from the Hilton Fashion 26 rooftop bar is amazing

Today's Words of Wisdom: Remember to say Thank You

The Winner of the Unofficial Mad Men Cookbook Giveaway!!

2012-05-16T00:30:00.000-04:00

THE WINNER IS:

BARBARA FROM COLORADO

Barbara runs a fabulous foodie blog titled Creative Culinary and it is worth a look if you are a recipe lover as myself!! I am sure Barbara will really enjoy her new cookbook!!

Crab Mimosa

Photo credit: Nina Gallant

Barbetta Pears

Photo Credit: Nina Gallant

Thanks again to The Unofficial Mad Men Cookbook for this wonderful giveaway. You can order your copy below, which I would highly suggest, as it is a fun book and price is quite reasonable.

Thank you for all the entries, & stay tuned for our next great giveaway with The Coffee Beanery at the end of the month!!

Purchase The Unofficial Mad Men Cookbook direct from Smart Pop Books HERE

FTC Disclosure:
I have not received any monetary compensation for posting this content and I have no material connection to the brands, topics and/or products that are mentioned herein. I received a digital copy of The Unofficial Mad Men Cookbook to review. Smart Pop Books will be providing this giveaway to the winner. My opinions are 100% my own.

Photo Gallery Tuesday: A Stylish Lady at the 2012 Coffee & Tea Festival

2012-05-15T02:00:00.000-04:00

This is what makes New York City so wonderful. This girl was attending the 2012 Coffee and Tea Festival in February and well, I just loved her whole style! The skirt was amazing, macarons all over it with bows and lace trim. Her earrings were ice cream cones, macaron necklace and bracelet were her jewelry of choice. My assistant spotted her and asked if she would mind me taking her photo. She was nice to do so and before I knew it, some other media outlet wanted to see her too. Guess we have good taste. Would you be so daring to wear this outfit? She rocked it, big time!!

Saks Fifth Avenue March 2012 Chanel Windows

2012-05-14T01:00:00.000-04:00

Saks Fifth Avenue and Chanel are two names that are noted for their style, class and quality. When we were in the city in March, Saks had their windows adorned with Chanel products. The mannequins alone are just gorgeous. I loved the hair with pearls throughout, how great for a wedding or prom look? Simple yet oh so elegant. I though I would list some of Coco Chanel's best quotes while we view these works of art.

The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.

The best color in the whole world, is the one that looks good, on you.

There are people who have money and people who are rich.

A woman has the age she deserves.

My reason for choosing diamonds is that, dense as they are, they represent the greatest worth in the smallest volume.

Nature gives you the face you have at twenty; it is up to you to merit the face you have at fifty.

I don't understand how a woman can leave the house without fixing herself up a little - if only out of politeness. And then, you never know, maybe that's the day she has a date with destiny. And it's best to be as pretty as possible for destiny.

Happy Mother's Day 2012

2012-05-13T01:00:00.000-04:00

My mom when she was 6 months pregnant with me, looking very chic

First, I would like to say Happy Mother's Day to all the fabulous mother's out there today. Today is your day. I read an article yesterday, in the New York Times, by Timothy Egan, about his last Mother's Day. It really moved me to tears and I feel so lucky to still have my mom with me in 2012. She had me at an older age, now that is pretty common, but it wasn't so at that time. I feel very fortunate to have had such a loving childhood, filled with great memories, and adoration. Being an only child, I really was not spoiled. I was taught you had to work for what you wanted, and had a job while still in high school. I feel I am a younger version of my mom, a little better with the technological stuff, but the class and generosity remains. She is my biggest cheerleader, and for that, I am forever thankful.

This looks like they were having way too much fun on their wedding day. They really were so in love with one another, a true romance.

As you can see, the hair was always an important part of my life! Here with my mom, enjoying a nice day outside, and getting some adjustments from my very first hairdresser!

My Godmother and Mom at my Mom's wedding.

If you wish to read the wonderful article by Timothy Egan, you can do so HERE. It is such a moving tribute to a great lady. If you are lucky enough to have your mom still with you, spoil her like crazy. Enjoy and cherish the time you have, make it the best it can be.

Thank you for everything Mom! Happy Mother's Day!!

Neuhaus Chocolates for Mother's Day

2012-05-11T20:57:00.000-04:00

NEUHAUS CHOCOLATE CELEBRATES MOTHER’S DAY AT NEW MADISON AVE FLAGSHIP STORE

You all know I am a huge chocolate lover, if you read this blog on a regular basis. The fabulous Neuhaus Chocolate has a new flagship shop on Madison Avenue, near 52nd Street and St. Patrick's Cathedral, very easy to find. They have some gorgeous Belgian chocolates for the best mom who has cravings for chocolate!!

These selections are fabulous if you are not good at wrapping gifts. They are beautiful to present with no additional wrap needed. Very elegant design, housing chocolates from a company founded in 1857, you cannot go wrong here.

These boxes come pre-made or you can pick your own assortment of mom's faves.

Neuhaus, 500 Madison Avenue (52nd Street); (212) 644-4490; neuhauschocolate.com. Pralines and truffles, more than 60 kinds, are $57 a pound. Boxed assortments are $9 to $96; the New York box is $30.

A Stroll thru Times Square at Night !!

2012-05-11T02:00:00.000-04:00

Times Square is not really favored by the NYC locals. They try to stay away as much as possible. I can understand, as I hate when it is so crowded, you are at a standstill. But at night, it is a bit less crowded, because the day tourists are gone, and it is really neat with all the lights going on. This is the Crown Plaza Times Square Hotel, right next to the Hershey Store, where I have stayed a few times. It is a great hotel, and you can get out of Times Square fast, if you wish, and away from the crowds with the location.

all the Broadway posters look really cool at night

The Forever 21 shop is huge and has lots of affordable clothes and accessories and even a men's section

One of my favorite newspapers is the NY Times

The poster all the way to the left is Tyne Daly, which is pretty amazing.....she is made up really well

There is always something going on in Times Square any time of the day....the stores are open until midnight

Even Santa made a visit to Times Square !!

The Swatch store is a favorite of mine

If you pop in the M and M's store, you may see my girlfriend, Green, in all her glory!!!

Today's Words of Wisdom: Don't Respond to your Critics

Photo Gallery Thursday " A Handmade Purse"

2012-05-10T02:00:00.000-04:00

This purse was on display at the 2012 Philadelphia International Flower Show. It was handmade with items like mustard seed, soybean, millet. All types of natural products. This is just gorgeous and I would carry it. No doubt. It would be the talk of a room. What about you? Would you carry this bag? Have a most wonderful Thursday!!

Jewels of Hope: The Collection of Mrs. Lily Safra

2012-05-09T01:00:00.000-04:00

I had the pleasure of viewing, not only Huguette M Clark's classic collection at Christie's in April, but also the Jewels of Hope: The Collection of Lily Safra. There was an amazing collection of jewels that day, a real treat for anyone who has a fondness for fabulous pieces. Even though I cannot afford any of these gems, being able to see their beauty in person, and marvel at the craftsmanship is something I so enjoy. Photography was allowed so along with information from Christie's site, here are my photos:

Christie's has been entrusted with the sale of the magnificent jewellery collection of Mrs Lily Safra. All proceeds will be generously donated to 20 different charitable institutions. Regarded as a major philanthropist of our time, Mrs Safra is also a discerning connoisseur. This jewellery collection reflects her refined taste and its evolution throughout five decades, from the 1970s to the present day.

Featuring 70 lots, the collection of Mrs Lily Safra is estimated to realise in excess of $20 million and includes important diamonds, rubies and sapphires, as well as an outstanding array of fine antique and period jewelry.

A special section of the sale will be dedicated to a group of extraordinary jewels by JAR, the majority of which were created specifically for Mrs Safra by the renowned jeweller between the 1980s and 2000s. Showcasing 18 pieces, this is the largest private collection of creations by JAR ever to be offered at auction.

A pair of 19.43 and 19.16 carat pear-shaped diamond ear clips add the final touch of magic. As individual stones they are important diamonds, as a pair they are without peer (respectively D/VS1, potentially Flawless, Type IIa and D/VVS2, potentially Flawless, Type IIa; estimate: US$3,500,000-5,000,000).

A BELLE EPOQUE DIAMOND NECKLACE, BY CARTIER
The lattice ribbon-style necklace centering upon a stylized bow, suspending rope hoops and two tassel pendants, entirely set with diamonds, the central motif can detach to be worn as a brooch, with additional fitting and screwdriver, mounted in platinum, 1911, 35.0 cm, in navy blue leather fitted Cartier case
Signed Cartier, nos. 6312 and 46 (indistinct), with maker's mark for Atelier Henri Picq
Est $406,000 to $603,000 us dollars

AN ART DECO EMERALD AND DIAMOND SAUTOIR, BY MAUBOUSSIN

The diamond-set S-shape link chain, composed of three bracelets, suspending a detachable pendant centering upon a sugarloaf cabochon emerald, enhanced by a diamond-set fringe, circa 1925, 62.0 cm, with French assay mark for platinum

Signed Mauboussin, no. 93401

Accompanied by report no. 62003 dated 6 February 2012 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the emerald is of Colombian origin, with moderate amount of oil

Est $203,000 to $307,000 us dollars

AN ANTIQUE EMERALD AND DIAMOND NECKLACE

The two rows of rectangular-cut emerald and old-cut diamond graduated clusters interspersed by diamond collets, to the similar single-row backchain, mounted in silver and gold, early-19th Century, shortest row 40.5 cm

Accompanied by report no. 61999 dated 6 February 2012 from the SSEF Swiss Gemmological Institute stating that the emeralds are of Colombian origin, with none to moderate amount of oil; and an Appendix indicating that 'The emeralds (...) exhibit a well-matching colour, combined with a fine purity. Microscopic examination revealed inclusions, which represent the hallmarks of Colombian emeralds from the famous mining areas such as Muzo, Coscuez, and Chivor, all located in the green foothills of the Cordillera Oriental in the Colombian Andes.'

Est $1.2 to $1.7 million us dollars

A SET OF FIVE DIAMOND AND COLOURED DIAMOND BRACELETS, BY FRED LEIGHTON

Each designed as a flexible bombé band set with brilliant-cut diamonds or brilliant-cut brown diamonds, mounted in gold, 19.0 cm, 19.3 cm and 19.5 cm

Est $50,000 to $81,000 us dollars

these braccelets were so unreal I was glad to get a shot for you up close to see the detail and craftsmanship I would have loved to purchase these if it wasn't for that darn price

What an amazing up close view of a ring that most of us can only dream of wearing. I am sure it is mighty heavy indeed. But oh what a sparkler!!

From Christie's website:

Mrs Lily Safra

Mrs. Lily Safra has carried on the philanthropic tradition of her husband, Mr. Edmond J. Safra, one of the twentieth century’s most accomplished bankers and founder of the Edmond J. Safra Philanthropic Foundation. Since 2000, Mrs. Safra has chaired this Foundation, which supports hundreds of projects related to education, science and medicine, religion, culture, and humanitarian relief in over 40 countries. She is a passionate art and jewellery collector, and has provided significant assistance to institutions including the National Gallery of Art (Washington), the Museum of Modern Art (New York), the Israel Museum (Jerusalem), the Courtauld Institute of Art (London), the Château de Versailles, and the Musée du Louvre, where the “Salle Edmond et Lily Safra” honors the works she and her husband donated.

All the proceeds from the sale of the collection of Mrs Lily Safrawill benefit 20 charitable institutions*

Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village, Rwanda
Children Action, Geneva, Switzerland
Claude Pompidou Institute for Alzheimer’s Disease, Nice, France
Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital, Tel Hashomer, Israel
Edmond J. Safra Family Lodge at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
Elton John AIDS Foundation (worldwide)
Fight AIDS Monaco
Henry Street Settlement, New York
Hopes and Homes for Children, Romania
Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève
Imperial College, London: Edmond J. Safra Chair in Neuropsychopharmacology & Edmond J. Safra Chair in Radiochemistry
Institute for Brain and Spinal Cord Disorders, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris
Keren Shemesh, Israel
King’s College, London: Edmond and Lily Safra Parkinson’s Research Fellowships
Le ballet de l’Opéra national de Paris
New York University, Parkinson and Movement Disorders Center
Royal Opera House, London
Université Joseph Fourier, Institut des Neurosciences, Bâtiment Edmond J. Safra & Institut Clinatec, Centre de Recherche Edmond J. Safra, Grenoble, France
University of Toronto and Toronto Western Hospital, Canada: Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson’s Disease (Dr. Anthony Lang & Dr. Andres Lozano)
Water Treatment Program, Amélia Rodrigues (Bahia), Brazil

JEWELS FOR HOPE : THE COLLECTION OF MRS LILY SAFRAFour Seasons Hotel des Bergues33 quai des Bergues, Geneva

Auction:Monday 14 May 2012, at 8pm

Viewings:Friday 11 May 2pm - 6pmSaturday 12 May 10am - 7pmSunday 13 May 10am - 6pmMonday 14 May 10am - 6pm

International Tour:London            29-30 March
New York         14-17 April
Paris               19-20 April
Hong Kong       27-28 April

Today's Words of Wisdom: Great People Live Dangerously

Photo Gallery Tuesday " Domoore Designs"

2012-05-08T02:00:00.000-04:00

The 2012 Architectural Digest Home Show had some very cool ideas. This table design was by Domoore Designs and I just loved the whole concept. The light above the table is gorgeous and the slip covers on the chairs, well, pretty amazing! What do you think of this look? Would it work in your home?