OC looks at OC life
Haute Style From The Fashion Island Insiders on CBSLA.com

Haute Style From The Fashion Island Insiders on CBSLA.com

January 04, 2012

How will you rock 2012? I recommend a trip to the always-trending Fashion Island. You’ll find an array of styles to fit whatever your look. Click my story on CBSLA.com to see what’s trending in the New Year.

Heather Hart has a style all her own. Famed pregnancy photog.

Heather Hart has a style all her own. Famed pregnancy photog.

October 25, 2011

Pregnant and due any week now, I’m considering having pregnancy photos taken. Did you have any taken/still love yours? I never had any shot with my other kids as I always prematurely delivered. And, honestly, I was always a bit uneasy about the somewhat contrived shots and strange attire (you know what I mean?). Add to all that, the cankles, double chin and all-over puffy factor and I just never felt glam enough to give it a go.

Perhaps I have missed out though, as I see some of the shots here from Heather and am jealous of these lifetime images/memories these women have and may never get the chance to have again. And the organic (and also stylized) nature of the photos pretty much blows me away. If you feel the same and are considering some shots, you may want to check out Heather of A La Mode photo. She’s the only California MATERNITY & PREGNANCY PHOTOGRAPHER to be featured on GOOD MORNING AMERICA, CBS THE EARLY SHOW and DR. PHIL.  To see why she is considered the best, watch her VIDEOS.

Here are a few of her shots also to give you a sense of her style.





Heather, who also offers children, family and wedding photography, offers both film and digital as well as a wide range of photo products. And uniquely, part of the experience she provides for clients is in designing one-of-a kind wardrobes for my pregnancy sessions (I love this angle.).  ”My pregnant clients are always so excited to come to their photo shoot because I tailor the wardrobe for each individual as if I am fashion designer and magician all in one,” she adds. That’s pretty awesome.

Heather shared some Top Pregnancy Photo Tips to also keep in mind if a session is in your future:

Whether indoors or outdoors, pick a natural, tranquil scene as your background. Heather’s personal favorite backdrop is the beach.

Try to find a place with very few people.  Be careful of trash cans and other items in the background that might detract focus from you.

Wear something that shows off your pregnant belly and will look good in both color and black and white photos.

Heather likes to wrap her pregnant subjects in material to accentuate the belly while the excess fabric flows romantically in the wind. Visit your local fabric store and pick up 6 yards of chiffon material.

Change up your poses. Don’t be afraid to experiment.

Pictures where the mom-to-be is looking down at and holding her stomach always look beautiful.

Relax. Ask a friend or loved one to shoot you. Knowing that someone who already sees you as beautiful is taking the pictures is enough to put your mind at ease. And have fun.

Enjoy the moment. Heather understands that when looking down at your pregnant self, you feel very wide.  Just remember how stunning you’ll feel looking back at those pictures.

All great tips, all amazing shots.

OC Fashionistas, hit Fashion Night Out

OC Fashionistas, hit Fashion Night Out

September 06, 2011

Fashion Island is the place for Fashion’s Night Out this Thurs., September 8 from 5 to 9 p.m. The night kicks off with celeb stylists who share fall styling tips and Hollywood fashion secrets with OC’s stylish set. And during the evening, shoppers will enjoy fashion and beauty events, giveaways, sweet treats and live DJs throughout the center and more.  Make a purchase that evening at participating stores and you’ll walk with a Fashion Island tote, while supplies last. 

More than 25 stores will host events including Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, American Rag Cie, Anthropologie, Elie Tahari, Inglot, lululemon athletica, Melvita, Michael Stars, Original Penguin, Stuart Moore, Trina Turk and Vince. 

Hair, makeup, photos. Tiare International in Laguna Beach.

Hair, makeup, photos. Tiare International in Laguna Beach.

April 29, 2011

Want a new look? Let’s face it, it’s fun to mix it up with a new hairstyle, trending makeup and photos to capture it all.

Tiare International Hair Salon in Laguna Beach is brand new, and they do all of the above. (And right now they’re having a hair, makeup, photoshoot special of 50% off, so $150 thru 6/1.) The salon, which is having their Grand Opening May 12 (with the Mayor, swag bags and more), is quite unique in concept, as they have hair, makeup and photography all in one. And since the salon is located in happening, beautiful Laguna Beach, the backdrop for your pictures is artsy meets funky meets gorgeous. Their open air loft salon pictured here.



You can also hit the salon for a regular cut or style, highlights that don’t damage (called Blazing; latest in lightening) and more. Click for services and price list.

Recently, the salon did a fun photoshoot with Ms. America 2011 who is from Ladera Ranch and has a remarkable backstory. Click the video here to take a look and also get to know the team at the salon (Tiare the owner, Kacie who does makeup, Gina who shoots the photographs and Stacy, stylist/color expert). Many of the gals switch roles as they are multitalented with their beautification skills. Click to see the salon in action when with Ms. America 2011.


Also below are some shots of myself when the salon prepped me for some OC Family TV shoots on COX3 and a few fun photos around town.



It’s a really a great, talented, trending salon worth checking out.  And they’re also new to Facebook and Twitter (@SalonTaireLB), so friend and follow them to keep updated of specials and salon events.

By the way, the hair, makeup, photoshoot combo is a perfect idea if you have a big event, need a current headshot, or are maybe thinking about a unique photo gift for your husband or other family.

Salon details: Tiare International Hair Design, 260 Forest Ave #5, Laguna Beach, California 92651 (next to Scandia Bakery), 949-354-1223

All that glitters is Tiffany

All that glitters is Tiffany

February 21, 2011

She’s your OC girl if you’ve got a big girl’s night out, photo shoot, tv gig or need any kind of makeup makeover. OC’s own CoachGlitter, aka Tiffany Lee Bymaster is a professional makeup artist, who works in film, TV, video, runway, editorial, runway, commercial and corporate. And she’s an airbrush expert if you need some “natural” glow. Here’s a look at Tiffany in action with her clients.


While she worked largely in LA only, she’s now beauty-blessed our OC with more full-time presence. Her clients are all over OC and too many to name, but she beautifies some of the Real Housewives such as Fernanda Rocha (seen below), the new cast member to debut next month, and many other OC and LA print and tv peeps.



So if you’re feeling a need to mix it up, contact Tiffany, she’ll come to you with her very large bag of beauty and all accessories needed and bring out your best. I can attest to her beauty fabulousness. She came by my pad and gave me just the right blend of makeup and hair before my photo shoot (shots by Mali Workman) and TV gig for OC Family TV on Cox3.



And best of all, she’s a doll to chat with who loves what she does. She’s also an OC social medialite; follow her on Twitter at @CoachGlitter, as well as on Facebook at CoachGlitter.


 

St. Patty Sexy

St. Patty Sexy

February 04, 2011

Awareables.com is a fave clothing line of mine about positive thinking, positive energy and changing your outlook from the inside out.

Their high-style bamboo and cotton tees have all kinds of sayings: “Green Is Sexy,” “Gratitude Rocks,” “Grounded for life,” “Shift Happens” and more. They’re about how change is constant and how negative thinking is so out of style. The tees have a sexy, great fit and they make you feel good inside, too. Expect many comments as you head outside. People will probably reading your tee, think for a moment and smile. You’ll be reminded of thinking a little bigger, kinder and with more gratitude and stress less when wearing them

They’re also great for conversation, as so many people have their guards up all the time, particularly here in OC and LA. You’ll be surprised how many people will start conversations with you when they see you’re approachable and thinking positive. Two awesome women, Betsy Mendel and Rachael Singer, started the line. They left their day jobs for a life more inspired. Another example to follow your heart. Change your thinking, change your life.

               

Holiday home haute this season

Holiday home haute this season

December 10, 2010

Get festive in the latest home fashions. On assignment with the gorgeous new Bask Magazine, I caught up with three OC design firms to get the latest in season looks. Take a look and tease read here, then click over to Bask for more Luxury in Balance from OC to LA to San Diego.

Here’s a look at Monumental Style and Bliss in Corona del Mar. Read on here.

Studio Chameleon does contemporary their way. Great style cues here. Click for full story at Bask.

 


And Molly Wood Garden Designs gets fresh with nature’s natural elements. Love her ideas. Read all at Bask.

VIDEO: Goofin' on the OC Sanuk set

VIDEO: Goofin' on the OC Sanuk set

October 22, 2010

Do you own any Sanuks? They’re awesome—the sandals, the company and the people. I joined the Sanuk “news” anchor desk to get the sandal story. Hit play for a quick insider chat on what’s going down at the Irvine HQ.

Whether they’re doin’ the green thing or outfitting Brad Pitt, Joel McHale and other hang-loose celebs, this group of OC smile-istas is street-smart and always on the edge of happening style.

I’ve rocked the Laurel Chills for Winter, the Tube Flops in Fall and Yoga Mats whenever I need some everyday namaste warrior, and I like ‘em all.

Check ‘em for the man in your life too; my husband rarely leaves the house without his sidewalk surfers, again, really, no blog BS. And psst, they make kids kicks too.

There really is so much I like about this local creative fashion force. And it’s all for real, or fur real, or whatever. Insider skinny: the President, Jeff Kelly, works right in the heart of the team—as in no stuffy glass door office; he’s there keeping it real with group. It’s a total collaborative team and a real friendly, genuine group—headquartered in Irvine.

So much I could gush on these guys about, but, hey, nobody reads the copy. So keep up with ‘em on Facebook (to score giveaways weekly) and tweet with them at @SunukFootwear.

Joey and Scott, find them on YouTube with Sanuk News—seriously, a riot. Like OC’s own The Soup kinda show.

Funk and function at Sanuk fo’ sure. Get ‘em on.


Stroke Of Genius

Stroke Of Genius

July 14, 2010

If it seems like the only thing in the stores is the Itty Bitty OC Bikini, or the other end of the spectrum: the Matron one-piece, ZsuZsi may be your summer breathe easy.

ZsuZsi is a new local line of athletic swim couture. Fashion designer and international athlete, Stephanie Kozowyk, who grew up with 20 years of ill-fitting suits, gave me the swim scoop.

“I used to shop with my friends and we would all get so frustrated shopping for swimsuits. We took great care of ourselves and would always end up asking, ‘Why can’t we look great and be active?’ And I’d interview women who were athletic, or getting back to fitness and some were wearing a sports bra with a bikini bottom and others just gave up and settled for the Speedo one-piece! I had enough and decided to break the mold.”

Enter ZsuZsi. Sassy, comfortable, practical suits where form meets function. Nothing rides up and everything stays in one place. Choose from three smart styles: the unique Ringback Sportkini, the fuller fit Eno Sportkini or the the slimming, with-it one-piece.

So you can play, have a long swim or lounge with girlfriends—all in the same stylish suit.

What’s with the ZsuZsi (pronounced zshoo-zshee) name? “It’s my mom’s name. She’s always been my inspiration and I love to say her name.”

Available at various OC stores this summer and always online at http://www.sportkini.com.

 


I did a giveaway and the lucky winner of the Zsu Zsi Swim Giveaway was: Gabrielle T. Here she is in here Zsu Zsi.

Modern Style? Think Modern Romance.

Modern Style? Think Modern Romance.

April 27, 2010

It’s a new chic stop in Aliso Viejo. Modern Romance, which just opened at Town Center is home to many sexy summer maxi dresses and contemporary clothes. And the prices are a great fit too. I stopped in as a passer-by and left with hands full of in style fashions for all occasions. Theresa Johnson owner of Modern Romance named the store after her concept of the modern woman. The Aliso location is the second in the chain, with the first founded at Fashion Island.

What I loved about the store is that it has a lot of fresh styles, all easy to wear, and the store is easy to breeze through without a lot of clutter of racks to look through. Hey, Summer’s almost here, so if you need to modernize your look, think Modern Romance. I walked with an everyday black tube dress, canary yellow, gauzy Boho look, a short everyday dress look and a black cover to throw on anytime.

Fashion Island Do’s

Fashion Island Do’s

November 02, 2009

My look at Fashion Island’s ‘Passport To Luxury,’ and what’s hot now. Learn sexy beach hair, Kate Spade handbags, home style and Closet fun.

Do you know this annual event? The Passport To Luxury is fabulous, benefits charity and is FI first class all the way. It’s like a swanky bar crawl with champagne, chic clothing and a Bloomie’s beauty bar. The night is put on by the luxe Riviera Magazine.

We got our passport, strolled the stores and got stamped at six in hopes to win a style spree.

As you’re mini bar wined and appetizer-dined, you get introduced to the latest fashions.

And you may think you already know what’s going down at the Newport mall, but that’s the thing, you discover styles and stores you may never have known about.

I’m a Fashion Island regular, as I love the outdoor scene, so I thought I knew all of this mall, but I crushed on some new loves that night with my chance to mingle, shop and drink Lemon Drops.

Each store had their own signature menu to “get you in the mood” for shopping and relax your disposable spending—with good intentions. Proceeds from your night’s purchases go to Juvenile Diabetes.

Here’s a whrrl look at the night:
Also, here’s a Whrrl look at the night:

More stories at Irvine Spectrum Center
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Head For Style

Head For Style

August 10, 2009

Twistbands. Let you let your hair down in so many ways.

Meet the new line of easy, breezy fashion dos by OC’s Jessica Frandson.

The inspired line is fresh, fun and has miles of style and possibilities with the soft, elastic spandex and range of looks. Headbands can be worn traditionally (and even three at a time) or more tribal style. Ponies double as armwear when you want to let your hair fall, and even act as a Post-it if you need to take a quick note (just scribble away then throw it in the wash, seriously).

And everything is simple one-sizing. Styles range from from neon, tie dye and camo to pastels, peace buckles and bling stones. The fashions change out four times a year to keep with the times and trends.

Love the fresh breadth of style, easy wear and anything-goes attitude, Jessica.

Visit Twistbands to see all the fashions.

Kind to Humans and Animals.

Kind to Humans and Animals.

May 26, 2009

Do you know this store? If you’re an animal lover or just a fashion guru, you might want to check it out.

There’s a host of fun, trendy styles, and all products at Humanitaire are made without animal products.

All shoes, purses, belts, everything. Unique, one-of-a-kind designs, furry-friend friendly. 

Everyday eco. Fun fashion. Style that’s easy to love.

Humanitaire at The Camp in Costa Mesa.

Eye-Poppin’ Eco

Eye-Poppin’ Eco

March 30, 2009

Green Girl Totes let you bring it all and save face while you save the planet.

Plastic’s out. Eco’s in. And everybody’s handing you a free tote to bag it all, but it seems style’s got lost in the handoff.

Green Girl Totes with reversible fashion give you double the style. The eco green fabric gives you the lifespan of 700 plastic bags. And the 15x17 space won’t cramp your daily scene.

Green Girls work at beach, the gym, a boutique or farmer’s market. So many styles. So much eco to fill.

Bag Some iStyle.

Bag Some iStyle.

February 24, 2009

Multitask and look good doing it.

Casauri, who designs products to make lives more simple and fun, has an sassy line of smart, chic tech companions. I love the iPod/iPhone carrier, discovered while traveling to the trendy land of Vancouver.

The case always turns heads with remarks like, “I’ve never seen an iPhone case like that, “Where d’ya get that?” “Is your phone in there?” and on and on.

While the look is great, the practicality is better. The small wonder kid-proofs your phone, acts as a shock-absorber, is a splash-guard at the pool, and there’s a back pocket slot to stash your cash and cards.

A transparent cover allows you to see callers, emails or your tunes. And two added bonuses: the chic shoulder strap makes for easy carry and the vinyl-like material lets you wipe down the daily mess.

Carry your camera, any cell phone, Treo or Blackberry. So many possibilities for just $20. Search around LA and San Diego to find a reseller or simplify your life and just order online.

More snazzy styles to snag from Casauri range from flowered laptop pals and striped backpacks. Who can decide?


               

Heart of Glass

Heart of Glass

February 03, 2009

They’ve got heart and unique style.

Murano glass heart earrings are entirely handmade in Murano, Italy, renowned for its glassmaking. Each pair of earrings is a one-of-a-kind work of art. They’re available at many OC stores, so be on the lookout.

A Millefiori (Italian for “a thousand flowers”) design is created with segments of differently shaped and colored glass rods that are laid close together and then fused into tiny mosaics.

Choose multicolor, brown or blue.


Look Rad in Plaid.

Look Rad in Plaid.

January 28, 2009

Look Rad in Plaid. Step It Up with Air Arches.

You can walk the walk and live to talk about it. Step it up from the everyday flats in this look of art + technology. Concealed NIKE AIR Technology is secretly cased within hot Cole Haan style for ultimate cushioning and maximum comfort. Ideal for any lady who’s always on the go, but doesn’t want to walk away from her high fashionista style.

Check out the Genevieve redefined weave wedge, cast in oversized leather plaid with patent straps. Shop Nordstrom’s at Mission, Cole Haan at South Coast or Cole Haan online. So many styles in dress and casual. (And yeah it’s a steep price, but maybe worth it if you’re considering buying two or three less expensive kicks that kill.)

Share with your favorite hairdresser, teacher, nurse, doctor, attorney and more who is on her feet all day.


                         
                                           

"Ahh." Enter, more inspired style.

January 19, 2009

Why go Plain Jane when you can amp up your entrance and make your home your heavenly sanctuary ... from the first few steps inside?

If you’re not HOA-policed, maybe it’s time to go Spanish Colonial, Italian Renaissance or bring out your inner Tuscany. There are so many amazing styles of front doors from rustic wrought iron and light-country distressed to charming dutch-door design or contemporary.

Now, you can hit Home Depot or Lowe’s, or you can go more custom if you don’t want to see your front door also across the street. A great, secret OC resource is Decorative Woods in Irvine. You’ll find all kinds of woods from Knotty Alder to Mahogany.

And if a whole new door is outside the budget, think sand and stain. A rich, renewed soak will also curb the unenthusiasm.

Hey, it’s no time to sell, so if you’re itchin’ for “new and improved,” a front-door reface or replace can give instant “Ahh, it’s good to be home.”

Inspiration Found

Inspiration Found

January 04, 2009

Visual artist and creator of HoboWorks, Bette McIntire of Laguna Beach, believes Life is robust with possibilities. She finds good at the heart of all life, as she scours the daily news, as in literally: the newspaper, looking to unearth a poem. “Sometimes the good gets buried, but it’s there.” Her hope: to awaken the spirit. Need some inspiring art to remind you of the good around you every day? Inspiration: found.

       

Recent Style

Haute Style From The Fashion Island Insiders on CBSLA.com
January 04, 2012
Haute Style From The Fashion Island Insiders on CBSLA.com
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Heather Hart has a style all her own. Famed pregnancy photog.
October 25, 2011
Heather Hart has a style all her own. Famed pregnancy photog.
more  
OC Fashionistas, hit Fashion Night Out
September 06, 2011
OC Fashionistas, hit Fashion Night Out
more