As many of you know, I have a real affinity for vintage clothing and accessories. As the years have gone by, my collection has grown to be too large for my apartment, and I finally found a good place to sell it. Vestiaire, a platform for buying and selling used clothing and accessories, that specializes in vintage apparel. They have a tremendous collection on consignment from various collectors around the world, as they started a decade ago in Europe and have more recently opened up their site to the US. We all know about the Real Real, but Vestiaire has been providing this service as well, and their stylists curate a truly beautiful, chic online boutique.
Read moreInkwell - Back To Work
Manon DeFelice is a woman I admire. She has taken my mantra of women supporting women to the next level, opening up her recruiting company almost five years ago, catering to women requiring flexibility in the workplace. There are so many brilliant, talented women out there who held important positions at work but left after motherhood, and never felt empowered or encouraged enough to return to their previous employment because they wanted to be present for their new families. This is a challenge I see even with my own group of friends, who would love the opportunity to launch a company or assist in building a start-up, but feel it would take too much time away from their children. Manon created Inkwell with these women in mind, and helps place women in the work force who need to work remotely, or have a shortened work week. Flexibility is the foundation of her business, and she provides financial rewards to the clients who give referrals. Her business is what supporting women is all about, so if you are feeling the itch to get back in it, shoot her an email.
Read moreNova Octo - Made Runway a Reality
There’s a new shop in town, and you all need to know about it. As busy women, whether attending work events, social gatherings, or philanthropic functions, we have a lot of occasions that require evening wear. This can be an extremely expensive endeavor, as well as wasteful, since the likelihood of wearing that memorable, special piece to multiple events is slim. We all like to feel confident and beautiful, and we deserve to be able to wear many important dresses and gowns, at a much more affordable price.
Nova Octo is a place where you can find all of the most luxurious designers, even some you’ve never seen or discovered in the states, and rent them for a small fraction of the price to wear to an event. The entire experience from start to finish is glamorous and fun, and owner/founder, Silje, is very accommodating to her clientele. For each rental, Silje gives back, making a donation to the client’s charitable organization of choice. She has a great eye and a kind heart.
Read moreThe Letters NYC - Art Education
Lara Björk, a talented, seasoned art consultant, has launched a new business that both kids and adults can appreciate. The Letters NYC, are a series of artful alphabet portraits, covering multiple cities, using each letter to match with an iconic, artful place/landmark within the city. Lara comes up with the letter references and visuals and her partner illustrates them, using bright colors that appeal to children of all ages. These special works of art are wonderful baby gifts and birthday gifts, and each comes with their own explanation sheet to teach your children the meaning and history behind the art. Lara has partnered with the Soho House to create a new weekend activity called “Kids House,” where children can express themselves through art and creation with her team, we are excited to try it out!
Read moreBoaz Studio - Challenge Yourself
I love finding new great workouts to incorporate as a complement to my regular Tracy Anderson regimen. A close friend of mine, who has the best taste in just about everything, turned me onto a new private training studio on the Upper East Side called Boaz Studio. Boaz and his trainers customize the workout to suit your body’s needs, and really build strength and tone the body in a way that lasts long-term. I love the vibe when I walk into the studio, a beautiful townhouse just off of Madison Avenue, with the best old school rock and roll music. The sessions with Boaz go so fast, I hardly feel like I’m working out. He makes the strength training enjoyable, and has a great way about him, which is why his clients always return. I’m very excited to try out his new boxing studio which will open soon on the first floor, bringing a new element to the workout.
Read moreMama-of-the-Moment: The Women of Johanna Ortiz
How have your children inspired your creations and overall brand at Johanna Ortiz?
Being a mother has been one of the greatest gifts in life. Not just for the brand, but they have taught us the purest love one can ever experience, and that fulfills all aspects of our lives. They give us strength to keep going every single day.
Why did you decide to make a mommy and me collection? Are you going to expand this collection going forward?
It was so fun. At the Atelier we are all mothers, from the design department to finance. It’s part of our life, so we decided to start the line and are so excited about it. It’s really cute to see a Johanna Ortiz dress in a "mini me" version, with little ruffles and bows. We want to continue with the line, evolving with the new collections of the brand.
Pay it forward, who are your favorite womenswear and childrens' designers that act as inspiration for you?
We love Maisonette or Bonpoint.
Who are your favorite local designers in Colombia?
I respect and admire Olga Piedrahita.
What are the next steps for Johanna Ortiz?
We are constantly evolving and growing. We want to establish ourselves as a relevant international House from Latin America to the world.
JOHANNA ORTIZ
How you find a balance between work life and managing your families?
That’s the word: "balance." I try to be really mindful of the moment I’m living, so if WE are with our families, WE fully present and enjoy that moment. When I’m at the Atelier, I am really concentrated and excited about designing.
When you travel, where is your favorite family destination?
Our home in Cartagena or Key Biscayne, we love boating.
How do each of you carve out “me” time? What do you do during that time?
Every morning I have ‘me’ time. Time alone to reset, be grateful, meditate, be in silence, have breakfast, read news, do some exercise. These moments give me perspective of where I am standing, and are sacred to me. But then my real balance time is being up with my three boys and husband every evening, having dinner, it keeps my heart smiling and that is the best medicine.
What values do you each hope to instill in your children?
Being respectful to every person that comes their way, honesty, and to follow their dreams, working hard to reach them, but it’s okay to fail while you are in that search.
CATALINA LONDOÑO
How you find a balance between work life and managing your families?
Always quality (time) vs. quantity: Being fully present and enjoying every second I am with them, without worrying about work. In the same way, I love my job and am very focused and productive, but always having fun and making the best out of it. My work makes me be a better mom!
How do each of you carve out “me” time? What do you do during that time?
Again, quality time is what really matters when it comes to “Me” time:
Every morning I take a couple of hours to work out, enjoy a massage, connect with the world and be mindful and grateful about the new day ahead of me.
Every week, my husband and I try to go on a “date” and have some much needed couple, “adult” time together. I really look forward to it all week!
Johanna, Paola and I were first friends before we worked together so when we travel for work, we always go for nice dinners, enjoy a glass of wine and celebrate life and friendship. Girls nights out are definitely a must “Me” time too!
When you travel, where is your favorite family destination?
St Tropez in the summer! It is now a tradition in my family and every year is even more magical than the one before.
What values do you each hope to instill in your children?
I always remind them to be grateful for what they have and to share, love and care for those in need. To respect others, and be humble by accepting everyone’s differences and learning from them. To be strong and work hard to reach their dreams!
What are some of your favorite kids' brands?
Love the classical European brands like Jacadi, Bonpoint, Marie-Chantal, Stella MacCartney Kids! But I have a thing for traditional Spanish kids brands too like La Coqueta and Nanos.
PAOLA ORTIZ
How you find a balance between work life and managing your families?
My children are my drive. They are behind my everyday will to live and work. When I have quality time with them, work just seems easy. Loving my family and loving my work is the perfect balance.
How do you carve out “me” time? What do you do during that time?
Three years from now I made a resolution, make some ‘me’ time. It’s super important and is all about activities that enrich my life: doing exercise, cooking, playing tennis, meditation.
When you travel, where is your favorite family destination?
Florida. I love the beach. I plan every year a special vacation with my children, so they can see the world and different cultures. It’s our tradition.
What values do you each hope to instill in your children?
Respect all, work hard, and family is first.
Dr. Jake: The Dream Doctor, Concierge Service to the Rescue (Just in Time for Sick Season)
Dr. Jake has been a close friend of mine, and for years, we’ve discussed him launching a concierge practice, in NYC to cater to an entire family’s health needs, from pediatrics to adult care. Jake has been an ER Doctor for over a decade, so he has dealt with everything and anything you can possibly imagine, and loves his job. He is the doctor we all dream of, incredibly precise, brilliant, kind, thorough, with the most charming bedside manner. So, imagine that coupled with 24/7 individualized care for any wound, infection, virus, or unknown illness!
I’m constantly getting emails and calls from friends wanting a doctor who comes to their home, as busy moms are multitasking with work, and constantly on-the-go, therefore very susceptible to illness. Oakwood Concierge http://oakwoodconcierge.com is all about convenience. Using telemedicine, Dr. Jake makes it possible to triage, diagnose and treat without the traditional office-based practice. Additionally, he has at-home lab testing such as phlebotomy and prescription delivery services! For more serious conditions that require x-rays or surgical procedures, he also has his Manhattan offices available to his lucky roster of clients.
I’m not sure if any of you experience your husband’s or partners avoiding the doctor completely, like I do, but this service offers such a great solution to keeping them healthy, without having to leave the office or home. Dr. Jake is literally changing healthcare with a more progressive approach, one that truly meets the needs of the modern family.
Read moreJane Winchester - Jewelry With Meaning
As Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, a holiday I now only celebrate with my kids, I wanted to bring back the romance of the the day with this feature. Jane Winchester has been in the accessories business for decades, and has now launched her own brand of jewels inspired by the gypsy coins of the 1900s. The reason for this inspiration, is that she sought out to create pieces with meaning, pieces that last a lifetime. Each amulet Jane creates symbolizes positivity, strength, hope and luck, to be worn daily as a constant reminder. Jane is passionate about her product, and making sure that each piece expresses the important, personal milestones in her customer’s life. It’s a true feel good gift!
Read moreYou'll Want to Call All Your Friends About Biologique Recherche Lotion P50
Remember the game Telephone? I loved Telephone. Hearing a secret, telling a secret...I guess I still love Telephone, I love secrets, and everything about them. I find that people listen much more carefully when you tell them a secret.
Something I know to be true, is that any friend of mine, with envy worthy skin has a secret — the very same secret, at that. One by one, this secret gets passed along, like the game of telephone. Now, put your ear to the screen and listen closely because I wouldn’t want you to mishear what I’m about to reveal.
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50. It's been rumored to be “magic in a bottle,” or “the holy grail.” I’ve even heard musings that it has a “cult-like” following. Now, I too, have drank the kool-aid, and have never been happier!
Is it a toner? Is it a lotion? Where can it be purchased? What is the smell? Why does my skin look so good?! All valid questions, although slightly irrelevant when flawless skin is achieved.
There isn’t much that P50 doesn't claim to do. Exfoliate, reset PH balance, cellular regeneration, hydrate, minimize pores, cleanse, tighten fine lines, taxes, school drop off… the list goes on!
After personally experiencing, softer, blemish-free, hydrated skin (as well as almost everything else on the list), and in record time I might add, I was as curious as ever; what the heck is in this stuff!? Generally, I understand a product by its name or category, but P50 lotion, that is used more like a toner, still leaves me curious. Which brings me back to this simple thought … does it matter with results like this? I’ll let you decide!
By Kira Cohen.
Sabria’s Brows - Sabria Celaj
Eyebrows are the focal point of a face, according to ME! I’ve always been obsessed with eyebrows, because, if done well, there is truly no need for makeup, they brighten a face all on their own. Everyone who knows me well, knows that my brows get the most maintenance of all; they are trimmed, plucked, and arched once a month! I’ve gone to my dear friend Paulo for years, but so many people uptown ask me for someone who is comparable in their neighborhood, and I found someone great! Sabria Celaj works in a salon on the upper east side, and does a beautiful job shaping the brow, appreciating my same aesthetic. I found that when she worked on my eyebrows, the experience was very relaxing, as she has a great energy and her positivity comes through.
Read moreOutrageously Beautiful Floral Arrangements by Arthur Golabek
I love to entertain, as you all well-know, and at the core of any party are the florals. I was lucky enough to have met Arthur Golabek in the Hamptons, and he helped create some unbelievably beautiful floral arrangements in my home. Recently, he opened up his own business here in NYC, lucky for all of us, and his first big project was for my ShopBAZAAR x Black Iris Launch Dinner. The table was outrageously beautiful, filled with bright, wild flowers, that lit up the room. He interpreted our vision for the launch to perfection, and was so lovely to work with. If you are looking for a new florist, he’s definitely your guy.
Read moreBlack Iris - By Women For Women
Well, the day has finally arrived! The day I have dreamt of since childhood, unsure if it would actually become a reality. Let this be a reminder to all of you, that dreams do come true, if you work hard enough and execute your ideas. Never give up, and always move forward.
Black Iris, the new DTC womenswear collection founded by me, Aly Gradone, Chloe Rosenberg, and Rachel Wexler launched today! The excitement we all feel is tremendous beyond words. The Spring/Summer ‘19 collection is filled with romantic, whimsical, feminine dresses and sets meant to be coveted, lasting pieces in your wardrobe. We call our customer "The Lady," elegant and sophisticated, with a modern sensibility. All of YOU are our lady.
The site is live now, and you can pre-order at http://shopblackiris.com. We are also thrilled to announce we have partnered with ShopBAZAAR and Moda Operandi for the launch of our initial collection. We look forward to seeing all of you in these very special, limited edition garments, and would love to see how you style and personalize them. Please tag us @thisisblackiris on Instagram, so we can share your beauty with the world!
Read moreFEYZ Studio - Glass Candy
Feyza Kemahlioglu is a young, inspiring and talented woman. She is passionate about creating beautiful glass sculptures, each unique in their shape and color, that add a pop of fun in any room. Whether used as candy jars, jewelry boxes, or filled with floating florals, her sculptural objects are magnificent. She’s expanded her art form to include incredible light fixtures, that truly make a room. I couldn’t get over her combination of glass and metals, in the most beautiful soft colors that gave each room a romantic glow. I am excited to see what Feyza comes up with next, as she’s definitely a woman to watch in interior design.
Read moreWhy I'm Dedicated to OBAGI Medical Products
There is good news and bad news. The good news is that I have found a combination of products that my normally angry winter skin is so in love with. The bad news is that I’m so pleased with my current lineup, I don’t want to change anything or try anything new. This poses a slight problem for me.
I have to credit a very large portion of the look I’m so pleased with to OBAGI Medical. A month ago, I started using their Professional-C Serum 10% and their Retinol 1.0, regularly. Since then, I have noticed so many changes. My skin looks firmer, plumper (in the right places), hydrated, with fewer fine lines, and glowier.
Read moreThe Derm Duo - Laura Palmisano PA-C and Diana Palmisano PA-C
I’m always searching for new, innovative, non-invasive beauty secrets, and in my search I stumbled upon this cute twin dermatology duo! Laura Palmisano and Diana Palmisano, referred to as the Derm Duo, are practicing new procedures and techniques to keep our skin looking youthful and glowy, in their Midtown East practice at Schweiger Dermatology Group. Whether you are looking for the best cool sculpting machines, newest lasers or simply good Botox and fillers, this adorable sister act gets it done well! I’ve honestly always been interested in cool sculpting after seeing the results on friends, but have been scared to try something completely new. If/when that day comes, I will be heading over to the Palmisano twins.
Read moreWTHN - Old World Medicine
In this new era of health and wellness, I’m noticing more boutique wellness centers popping up in major cities. I’ve investigated to find the best new businesses jumping on this trend, and I previously gave you one of my favorites in the field, Stretch’d. Well, just down the street, there’s a new spot in town, appropriately named WTHN. Much like a beautiful spa, the atmosphere is soothing and zen, quiet and peaceful. They offer a menu of acupuncture treatments dependent on the issue at hand. They have Prevent, for immunity boosting and releasing tight muscles. Heal, is a treatment used for injuries, illnesses and sleep deprivation. Lastly, my favorite, The Glow, which enhances your skin, circulating the blood flow, and relaxing the face muscles. Pairing WTHN with Stretch’d will keep you going through the winter!
Read moreWhy You Should Cleanse Your Beauty Cabinets in the New Year
A new year can mean new beginnings. A cleanse of the past, of the home, of the body, of the skin. Now that I have been back in the apartment for a week, I have prepared our surroundings to better enjoy all the things 2019 has to bring. I reorganized my daughter's toy bins and draws, donated what she has out-grown, did a little redecorating, i.e. put things where they once belonged, and I threw out random items that piled up in hidden baskets around the house. I absolutely love getting rid of things that no longer serve me, vases bouquets come in, unmatched socks, used up notebooks, dried out markers, children’s artwork with one green line on it. I love it so much, I fear I might be turning my daughter into a hoarder, with her purses filled of confetti and drawers packed with neglected dolls, all of which are “special” to her.
One of my favorites is achieving an expiration date. If I’m ever in your fridge or medicine cabinet, you can be sure that I’ve picked up the Advil or a few condiments and checked the date, and if it’s in the past, I’ve taken the liberty to dispose of it for you. I just get a strange satisfaction from it. With that said, I urge you to rummage through your products and throw out anything that has expired. Feel free to send me photos so I can live vicariously through you.
Beauty products all have a different shelf-life due to ingredients, packaging, usage and exposure. It’s important to be aware of this, as many hold bacteria and can cause unwanted issues like pinkeye and rashes, or simply don’t give you their original results. Beauty companies are not required to put expiration dates on all products, so it’s up to us to save face here.
Read moreAlyssa Kapito Interiors - A Neutral Palette
I always seem to be drawn to a neutral palette, both in my closet, and my living spaces. There is something so refreshing, timeless, and soothing about living in a muted home. I love discovering new, talented interior designers to share with you, since many of my followers have growing families and are looking for someone to help decorate a new home, that is both kid-friendly and beautiful. One I admire, and appreciate is Alyssa Kapito. I met Alyssa in her Soho showroom for our interview, which looks like a beautiful mini apartment in and of itself. I loved her technique of using multiple textures instead of bold patterns and colors to make a room interesting. She gives a great amount of time and attention to her clients, is a pleasure to be around, and has a great eye.
Read moreQuo - Scientific Fit Gear
As you all know I am sweating puddles over at Tracy Anderson on a daily basis, and sitting in that sweat for about 2 hours through classes. I always thought that cotton was the most breathable material to wear during my workouts, however I was sorely mistaken. After a long and informative interview with the very inspirational, Stacey Hunter, founder of Quo Active Gear, I learned that the undergarments I’d been wearing cause bacteria which lead to infection. Although it’s not the most glamorous topic, the truth is when we sit in our sweat for extended periods of time, women are prone to yeast infections and urinary tract infections, both incredibly painful and undesirable. Quo undergarments are made with science in mind, ensuring that even if we sweat for a long time, the underwear absorbs the wetness, decreasing the chance of bacteria forming. I wear them everyday, and I can attest to them being life-changing. Quo is also coming out with a full line of athleisure in the same amazing fabric very soon!
Read moreLele Sadoughi - Bedazzled
My favorite gift for the holidays are Lele Sadoughi headbands! I wear mine everyday, and it makes my outfit complete. Whether it’s a good hair day, or a bad one, I pop on a jeweled headband and instantly look put together and cohesive. Lele is incredibly creative, always having fun with bold, bright colors, and fun materials to make her costume jewelry. Her signature floral earrings are a staple in my jewelry box, and they are so light, I hardly feel like I’m wearing anything. I’m excited for her new collection of home decor and sunglasses, as whatever she designs is always very happy and beautiful.
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