Cedar You in My Dreams

It is Spring Cleaning season, and I thought I'd share a bit of closet envy.

We all know about people with entire bedrooms devoted to their wardrobes, or Carrie's dream shoe closet (or the above male wet dream according to Heineken). Me? It wasn't so much the space but the type of space. Personally, I've always dreamed of a cedar closet.

I'm not sure why I had such a fascination with cedar. Growing up on the west coast everyone was familiar with the Lane cedar chest (do girls still wish for hope chests?). I'd never really had a problem with moths - not like we do in Wisconsin. But I also detested the moth balls used to keeps wools safe, and longed for the chemical free use of cedar. It just seemed like such a useful, little luxury.


In our digs, I first laughed at the little slip of a door in the hallway:



Then I opened the door: Holy bananas!









This tiny little space is floor to ceiling cedar, including the door. There are two rails allowing for double hanging. And the shelf is adjustable.

What is the purpose of the cedar closet?

Protection from predators
If you live in Wisconsin and have wool, chances are you've seen this little bugger. I brought two wool rugs with me from California, and one disintegrated before I realized the problem. The other is hanging onto dear life. The natural oils in cedar help repel insects. For added protection, it is still recommended to "bag and ball" (did I just coin a phrase?).

How does it work and what keeps it working?
This floor-to-ceiling cedar closet is ideal because it is the natural oils in cedar that give the distinct aroma that drives bugs away. It is the destructive larvae that eat through tasty fabrics, and adult moths won't lay eggs in such a pungent smelling environment.

The oils don't last forever though. Cedar should be refreshed with a light sanding to revive the wood. Too much contact with air, dirt and simply time turns the cedar from a nice red to a brownish tone. This color change or lack of scent is a sign to perform maintenance or risk creatures getting cozy in your goods. Sanding once a year is a common recommendation, with a light application of cedar oil as an option. Maintenance is so easy, even Spiderman can do it!


How do I get my own closet?
If you don't already have a built-in and are looking to convert or build, there are two ways:

1) Use Eastern Red Cedar. This is the original cedar harvested primarily from the southern Appalachian Mountains. These planks produce the strong cedar scent. This is the more expensive route but will provide a beautiful finish.

2) Cedar flakeboard. This was my backup in college, and I have pulled those boards and taken them with me everywhere I've gone. You simply nail them in and you're done.

If you share the same dream I've always had, don't despair. Seems dreams really do come true!

Pierce Mattie’s Forecast of The Top 10 Consumer Trends for Summer

Consumers beat the heat by stocking up on sunscreen, burning off calories at their favorite cardio class, putting their birth control to good use and enjoying an economic night about town with their favorite speed-rack vodka.

04.20.2009 – With the economy in a state of flux, retailers, vacation hot spots and consumer goods’ manufacturers have been anxiously waiting to find out about the consumer trends for summer. This year, due to the extended winter season, summer has been the last thing on people’s minds. While shorts, flip-flops and bright colors usually can be seen on Broadway right after Easter, this year people are still wearing their winter coats.

Here’s what made Pierce Mattie’s hot list this year:

1. Expensive airbrushing is out and self-tanning is in. Summer skin will be muted with self-tanners showing a softer side of bronze this year. Consumers who spent upwards of $70.00 a session to keep that glow for one week last summer, will find themselves at their local pharmacy getting a tube of sunless tanner from DHA, Hawaiian Tropic or Jergens for under $10.00

2. Understated highlights will replace Versace vixen, foregoing the bold and demarcated styles of seasons past. Consumers will opt for the affordability of a subtle style’s longer lifespan versus the high upkeep of brighter looks. Teens are expected to look into classic favorites like Sun-In, with parents following the do-it-yourself trend.

3. Costume jewelry will continue to be the rage with semi-precious stones being outside of most consumers’ price range. Look for jewelry made of acrylics and plated metals to see a growth in sales. Brands like Ben-Amun by Isaac Manevitz and pieces like Kate Spade’s "Mariposa Fleur" Butterfly Bangle will gain popularity. This jewelry trend is expected to last through the holiday season of 2010.

4. Coupons and value-added shopping will forefront in consumers’ minds, with sales reaching record peaks during the summer season. It will be one red, white and blue sale after another. Consumers who favor gifts with purchase at the cosmetics counter will be in luck—rumor has it that those leftover goodie bags from this winter will reappear on the selling floor before June.

5. With massive layoffs and cutbacks, it will be no surprise to see some executives taking an extended summer off working on their resumes while sunning at the beach. This translates into higher sales for sunscreen brands like Coppertone, Banana Boat and La Roche-Posay.

6. Exercise is one of the best stress relievers and right now everyone needs to decompress. This summer, more and more people will be hitting the gym to burn off steam. Rather than stay solo on the cardio machine, don’t be surprised to see health club members heading to the classroom for a dose of group exercise. This summer people want to feel like they are part of a group and belong, more so now than ever before. A 60 minute spin class at your neighborhood gym can be just the trick to get your psyche back into the right gear.

7. The best stress buster next to reading a trashy romance novel is making love. That’s right—birth control brands such as Trojan, Durex and Lifestyles will see an increase in sales as love making will help to ease mounting financial tensions. And for the unemployed, what better way is there to spend excess free time? Playful lubricants and sex accessories from brands such as Booty Parlor, I.D. Lube and Astroglide will also see an increase in sales.

8. Vodka goes with just about everything from that Bloody Mary at brunch to the Cosmo at sunset. Spirit companies can expect to see an increase in purchases of their low to mid-tier brands like Svedka, Absolut and Smirnoff.

9. Many people reach for comfort foods in stressful times and this recession will not be an exception. Expect to see an increase this summer in the adverse Atkins suggestions: bread, candy, chocolate and spaghetti. Inexpensive, familiar, and bringing with them pleasant memories of childhood, comfort foods help consumers feel safe in an unsure world.

10. The economy has driven comfort to the forefront and you’ll find consumers being drawn to distressed denim and boyfriend jeans as their fashion statement of choice. This hot style has re-emerged from the 80s in brands like True Religion Brand Jeans and Levi’s.

Consumers’ purchases are becoming increasingly reflective of their moods and psychological state. Affordable brands that create a sense of stability and safety, that are at the same time fun, engaging and offer an escape from the challenges of the world, will win in this economy.

Congratulations to Miss USA 2009 - live from Las Vegas

Diamond Nexus Labs' CAD designer is in Las Vegas live for the events and shares these photos. Congrats on the beautiful crown Miss North Carolina Kristen Dalton and Diamond Nexus Labs!



Donald Trump
Next stop, Miss Teen USA

Miss Universe Crown - You Vote the winner!

For an update to this article and to view the winning crown and contestant click here



And it's on! Last week, Wisconsin-based DiamondNexusLabs unveiled the Miss USA crown, the first of three crowns they are designing for the Miss Universe Organization.

Now they have revealed the Miss Universe crown - but there are three choices and you can help select the final design Miss Universe will wear when she is crowned August 23, 2009. In voting, you'll also be entered to win a trip for two to New York to meet Miss Universe, you'll get a $5000 shopping spree at Diamond Nexus Labs, and tickets for dinner and Broadway show.

These are the first eco-friendly crowns commissioned in the history of the Miss Universe Organization and they are a beautiful alternative to conflict diamonds.

Go to www.choosethecrown.com to view and place your vote

Trivia: Do you recognize the former Miss Universe that graced Solessence space? Click here to find out.

Just a little off the top please

@bananza That doesn't look like a pedicure... Kinda looks like a toe amputation. #badclipart

New Miss USA Crown - Sneak Peak-eco-friendly diamonds

See the sneak preview now as the Miss USA crown gets unveiled on TODAY. Visit back here to see exclusive photos first!
In February we interviewed Franklin, Wisconsin based eco-friendly diamond company Diamond Nexus Labs when they announced they had been selected to create the first "green" crowns in the history of the Miss USA, Teen USA and Miss Universe. There will be a full reveal this afternoon in Las Vegas. Please check back!

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Susan Boyle - The Beauty Within

A wonderful summation on true beauty, and what might have happened if Susan tanked.

Susan Boyle - Britains Got Talent 2009

Shame on YouTube blocking embedding of this video. You must see Susan Boyle - a 47 year old, unemployed woman from a "collection of villages" crush the stereotypes and competition. She is clearly full of gumption and mad pipes! She'll be living her dream from here on out.It is incredible, here is a version from Daily Motion

Susan Boyle on Britain's Got Talent
by dwarthy

Join her fan page!
I Dreamed a Dream (lyrics)from Les Miserables

I dreamed a dream in time gone by
When hope was high
And life worth living
I dreamed that love would never die
I dreamed that God would be forgiving.

Then I was young and unafraid
And dreams were made and used
And wasted
There was no ransom to be paid
No song unsung
No wine untasted.

But the tigers come at night
With their voices soft as thunder
As they tear your hope apart
As they turn your dream to shame.

And still
I dream he'll come to me
That we will live the years together
But there are dreams that cannot be
And there are storms
We cannot weather...

I had a dream my life would be
So different form this hell I'm living
so different now from what it seemed
Now life has killed
The dream I dreamed.

Organic Buying Opportunities

If you are into beauty, health, trends, supporting your neighborhood or looking for a good deal, you know that extends from your wallet to your routine to your purchasing choices and to your pantry. It all starts from within, doesn't it?

In January I profiled Angel Food Network, a nationwide buying group (food coop essentially) that offers enough food for a family of 4 for $30 a week.

Milwaukee local Growing Power is going the same path with locally grown organic goods (no frozen or boxed goods). Grown on a two acre farm on Silver Spring Road, Growing Power uses a mix of traditional and hydroponic farming and additional off site growing locations. CEO Will Allen has received much recognition and, recently, the MacArthur Fellowship for his outstanding work in urban farming. You can feel confident about where your food is coming from.

The Market Basket is such a simple and affordable way to introduce organics and fresh produce into your diet on a regular basis. The catch? You'll still need to cook (but website recipes are on the way). According to their site:

The Farm-to-City Market Basket Program consists of weekly deliveries of safe, healthy and affordable produce to neighborhoods throughout Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago. This program is run on a weekly basis, so that customers may engage at a pace that is right for them.

During the spring, summer, and fall months, the majority of the produce found in the Market Basket comes from:

*Growing Power's Farms in Milwaukee, Merton, and Will Allen's Farm in Oak Creek; and
*The Rainbow Farmer's Cooperative, a collective of small, family farmers.

During the winter months, produce comes from:

*Growing Power's greenhouses in Milwaukee;
*The Rainbow Farmer's Cooperative, relying on our farmers in the South and on storage crops such as onions, potatoes, and sweet potatoes; and
*Small-scale, locally or family owned wholesalers such as Goodness Greeness in Chicago. These whole salers keep fresh fruits and vegetables not grown locally during the winter, such as apples, head lettuce, and peppers, available and affordable year-round and provide local jobs in our community -- the very essence of a Community Food System.


Types of Market Baskets:


The Regular Market Basket

Provides approximately 12-15 varieties (20-25 pounds) of conventional and sustainably grown produce designed to last 2 to 4 people throughout the week. The basket contains a variety of both fruits and vegetables.


The Junior/Senior Market Basket

Provides approximately half the regular market basket designed to accommodate smaller households. The basket still contains 12-15 varieties of produce, but in smaller quantities.


The Sustainable Market Basket

Provides approximately 10-12 varieties (18-22 pounds) of certified organic and sustainably grown produce designed to last 2-4 people throughout the week. The basket contains a variety of both fruits and vegetables.


Extras!

In addition to the weekly market basket, customers may also purchase pasture-raised meats, farm fresh eggs, and fruit baskets. Urban Clover Honey from Growing Power’s apiary is a specialty item that is seasonally available.

*Whole Chicken, $16.00 (Amish-raised in Wisconsin)
*Beef Liver, $3.00 (Grass-fed, Wisconsin raised)

---------------------------------------------------------------
Visit here for more information on Growing Power.

Lovelies at TJMaxx

Thanks @tjmaxx for stocking these pieces that make a great outfit: Nine West dress & sweater, sweet purse and gold strappies (not shown). This is a great work outfit that will segue through chilly Spring to warm Summer with ease and comfort and style.

Enchanted Doll - Expressions of Beauty

A while back I discussed the Enchanted Doll line, Lotus in particular. A creation of artist Marina Bychkova, Lotus is the symbol of the beauty found in feet binding. Aside from the stunning craftsmanship, detail and aesthetic beauty of these dolls, Lotus was a reminder to me of my great grandmother who was the last generation to have her feet bound. She had very small feet (under 4") and "walked like she was dancing" so I've been told. She lived well over 100 years, met my father, had 4 personal servants to assist her throughout her life, and was revered for the lotus flower shape of her tiny feet.

While I don't think anyone would wish this on their child today, I have always been fascinated that this practice touched someone in my family. Much like removing a rib to achieve a tiny waistline might intrigue someone from Western culture, it is incredible to think of what people, women in particular, go through in the name of beauty.

Russian born and Canadian based Bychkova can spend several hundred hours creating one doll. Each doll is fashioned as a visual narrative, and a story is told through details such as Indian mehndi, necrophilia (Sleeping Beauty), even Frankenstein's Bride.
Bychkova also uses the ethereal dolls as a way to express an alternative side to fairy tales.

"What interests me most about fairy tales is the implicit and often explicit violence that lies just beneath the surface of the magic."

Now, it is a great pleasure to announce Enchanted Dolls will be showing in Milwaukee at Villa Terrace, starting April 8th through June 7th.





Bychkova will reveal new pieces along with many that are on loan from private collections. Please take time to treat yourself to this unique collection that we are fortunate enough to have in Wisconsin.
A limited number of dolls will be available for purchase through arrangements with the artist.













This is a do not miss event at a beautiful location. Treat yourself to Enchanted Doll.


--------------------------------------------
Marina Bychkova:
Enchanted Doll
April 8 - June 7, 2009
***Photographs are allowed in the Villa Terrace Museum. Feel free to bring your camera.***

Opening Reception:
Wednesday, April 8, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
With Artist’s Talk with Marina Bychkova

Location
Villa Terrace
2220 N. Terrace Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 271-3656

Barbie You Can Drive My Car

Barbie has had an awesome year. Turning 50 (and looking dewy fresh), getting her own runway show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, and now a set of custom wheels from VW. So tell me, is driving this set of wheels fashionable or laughable? As a concept car I think it is adorable.

Versace Tiara: Does this make me look rich?

Looking to diversify? Diamonds are a girl's best friend, especially when fashioned into a tiara by the likes of Gianni Versace, and previously worn by Madonna. This item of conspicuous consumption is estimated value at $3M, and goes up for auction March 23rd at 9am PST. Bid early, bid often. And do tell where you would wear it.

Clinton Kelly Makes Over America

Clinton Kelly continues his reign with Macy*s, embarking on a 15 city tour across America, beautifying as he goes! Enter now for a chance at a complete makeover - hair, makeup, clothing. In the end you'll be able to show off your new look during a runway show.

Clinton will be on The View tomorrow, March 3rd, to share more.

Why are you still reading? You've got a jump on the competition for entry.

Enhancing Your Natural Beauty - The Abs

Hot date? No time for a workout to make those abs pop? Follow these makeup tips to enjoy a highlighted midsection in no time.

First Memory: Designer Gowns

It is the weekend, so I thought we could take a jaunt down memory lane.

When was your first brush, nay, tender skin enveloped in the decadence that is the designer gown?

My first, if I recall correctly, was a sleeveless Dior ball gown with raised gold threading over a floral pattern. This is a similar look:


My dress was on borrow from my very petite aunt who had a fabulous closet. The gown had a V-cut front and back. The golds and pinks were lovely to the eye, and the rough texture of the threads was an interesting contrast. Especially belted and used as a costume for an outdoor play where I was - Christopher Columbus.Scene in memory was on a ship.

Could be a dress and tights, no?

Did I mention my aunt was petite? Because I was in 4th grade and it was a big outdoor production. Belted and tucked, I thought it looked pretty swanky. I'm sure this incident sticks in my mind because of the MASSIVE argument my father and mother were having. He said there was no way I was going to be in the play in a ballgown. My mom said it looked great and if I wanted to I should be able to wear it. I pleaded that Chris was representing Queen Isabella and so of course he was wearing gold and finery.

In the end me and mum won the battle at home, I played to a crowd that loved Dior, and all my cast mates asked why a girl playing a guy was wearing a dress with a sword. Did I mention this was in SF? Glory days.

What is your first memory?

Congrats to Slumdog Millionaire

MB Fashion Week - butter London & Daniel Saynt 1pm Central 2/20

Today on BlogTalkRadio 2/20 1pmC: Nonie Creme of Butter London talks looks & colors from MBFW

Immediately followed by Daniel Saynt/FashionIndie discussing MBFW controversy and NYO lawsuit

81st Oscar Night Fashion Predictions from Celeb Stylist Lawrence Zarian

Thanks to Lawrence Zarian for sharing his Academy Awards predictions with us. He'll be live on the red carpet Sunday and hosting an Oscar wrap on Monday with Lisa Rinna. What are your predictions?

RED CARPET GLAMOUR FROM LAWRENCE ZARIAN, "THE FASHION GUY" FROM
ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT, LIVE WITH REGIS AND KELLY AND TV GUIDE NETWORK.

The Oscars are right around the corner and for Award Season '09 the theme on the red carpet is all about color and class. Hollywood's A-list beauties are definitely bringing glamour back to the red carpet
while keeping it simple and elegant with a "less is more attitude".

• Old Hollywood glamour is still the rage before hitting the red.
From double Golden Globe winner Kate Winslet in her black satin floor
length Yves Saint Lauren with simple, stunning jewels by Chopard to
Anne Hathaway in her crystal laden white Azzaro gown with Cartier
Jewels at the SAG Awards, it's one color dressing at it's finest.

• Major color is back on the red, from cool crimson to powerful purple
to beautiful blues. Don't let the color control you, you control and
carry the color.

• The key accessory on the red carpet is not a handbag or shoes, it's
showing off your shoulders, from strapless statements such as
Christina Applegate in a gorgeous emerald green, one shoulder gown by
Emanuel Ungaro at the SAG Awards, to Eva Longhoria Parker working the
red in her body hugging strapless crimson red Reem Acra fishtail gown,
at this years Golden Globes.

• From Anne Hathaway to Hollywood IT Girl Freido Pinto, the hair is
sleek and slicked back with the emphasis on the face, featuring smokey
eyes and stained lip.

• For the women, belts, ruffles and bling are heavy hitters in this
game called fashion while plunging necklines seem to be striking out
due to the wrong fit and wrong designer on the right girl.

• Regarding those Hollywood hunks, if you have the confidence and
inner star power to lose your tie, take it off like Brad Pitt did so
effortlessly in Tom Ford at the SAG Awards. Finish off your look with
a pocket square to match your stunning arm candy, like Brad did with
his cornflower blue pocket square, complimenting Angie's draping Max
Azria gown. Star Style at it's finest.

• Tom Cruise showcased a lean and mean silhouette in his double
breasted tuxedo at the Golden Globes, while most of the other men on
the red, leaned towards the single breasted tuxedo with narrow lapels
and two-button closures.

• For men, classic and elegant styles re key when dressing for the red
carpet. From pocket squares to cuff links, the looks are definitely
more polished with an old Hollywood finish.

• ‘WATCH TV GUIDE NETWORK LIVE ON THE ACADEMY AWARDS RED CARPET
BEGINNING SUNDAY FEBRUARY 22nd at 3PM/2PM CENTRAL.”

• “Academy Awards Fashion Wrap with Lisa Rinna and Lawrence Zarian,
premiering Monday February 23 at 8/7c also on TV Guide Network.”

Kathryn Kerrigan Boutique Shoe Sale & Wine Tasting - Sat 2/21

If you're bummed about Milwaukee cracking down on sipping vino and shopping, cross the border to Libertyville, IL for Kathryn Kerrigan 's shoe sale Saturday, February 21.

Specializing in larger sized, stylish shoes for tall women, the boutique carries sizes 6-15 and are known for providing all day comfort. Shoes are manufactured in Spain, and Spanish wines will be served.

This event is part of a 30 store soiree, with wine tasting available at each location. Purchase of an etched wine glass at a location serves as your ticket to imbibe at all other locations (but remember, moderation is the key). Take that, Milwaukee.


No fees to attend, must be 21 or older. Downtown Libertyville 1:00pm-5:00pm

Kathryn Kerrigan
741 N. Milwaukee Avenue
Libertyville, IL 60048
847.557.5067

Kim Kardashian - RED HOT

Leave it to KK to present the look that, mark my words, will finally launch the bold lip colors. Cosmetic companies have been trying to get women to go darker for a season or two now, and this trend setter will def be pushing us over the edge.

Everything about this look is perfection!

Backstage Makeup - MBFW - Diesel

Yesterday's Diesel show, artist Charlotte Tilbury. photo courtesy heather park

Backstage Makeup - MBFW -

MAC Tony Cohen - gorgeous dramatics photo courtesy heather park

MAC's Heather Park got her nails did

Thanks to MAC's darling Heather Park for sharing. And here is her choice for nails for Fashion Week - a stunning midnight blue gradation. I have to try this! It almost matches Pickler's dress. photo courtesy heather park

Badgley Mischka Celebs

It looks like Kelly Pickler lost her (boob) job! I'm not against big girls, but she looks so much better natural. The dress is also a stunner.


And you can't do fashion week without Kim Kardashian, but I honestly like sis' nude shoe look better. Both beautiful girls.

Backstage Makeup - MBFW - New York - Badgley Mischka

The color palette at Badgley Mischka, featuring MAC Tom Pecheux's hand. photo courtesy heather park

Backstage Hair - MBFW - New York - Donna Karan

luvs! photo courtesy heather park

Backstage Makeup - MBFW New York - Terexov

MAC's Director Nadine Luke (pictured above) orchestrated this deep blue and dramatic look for Terexov photo courtesy heather park

Instant Coffee by Any Name is Still Instant Coffee

McCoffee, which has taken a serious swipe at Starbucks ever conserving customer base, is the leading brew of choice, even scoring as sponsor for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York. Starbucks is battling to regain market ground by appealing to the masses, and the first breakthrough is as opposite Italian coffeemakers as one can imagine.

Starbucks introduces Via, poised to be the gourmet of instant coffees. Want to give it a swirl? Go to their site and click "Try Via" for a free sample (and newsletter, natch). With cute little tumblers and promises of preferred pre-shipments, all semblence of an experience does not seem to be lost.

The site promises samples shipments in 2 weeks, or you can pick up in Chicago or Seattle. Looking forward to my brew review with you.

Hello Kitty Arrived - So What Did You Pick UP?

Hello Kitty MAC Pro & Everyone Else = online now!

MAC Pro - Rush for your Hello Kitty

Not a Pro? Collection is still available online and nationwide in stores on the 12th. ALERT: high demand is causing the MAC Cosmetics site to crash!

MAC Hello Kitty Designer Dress Auction Ending

MAC Hello Kitty Designer Dress Auction Ending

Get a unique and wearable keepsake from the HK campaign. All proceeds benefit the Acquisition Fund for the museum at FIT.