Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Dick Clark's "Flintstone" Home

Dick Clark's "Flintstone" Home


I saw a news article several days ago about Dick Clark's "Flintstone" home being put on the market for $3.5 million dollars.  As an architect looking at these pictures, I was just in awe of the design of this house.  Dick Clark is in the news again today, but this time for the sad news of his passing.  

I, along with many, grew up with this vibrant man who brought us American Bandstand, Top 40 countdowns, game shows, and of course the annual New Year's Eve countdown celebrations.   He has impacted many of our lives from childhood to today.  So, I am sharing these amazing pictures of his "Flintstone" home as a tribute to this great legend...and because they are just incredible!











 "The prehistoric design was dictated by circumstance" ~ architect Phillip Jon Brown

The 23 acre site is located next to the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreational Area which originally objected to the house on the property.  The concept was for the house to look like a rock formation so that the park conservancy would allow the home to be built.  As you can see, it all worked out well.

In the words of a legend,  "For now, Dick Clark...so long".  He will be missed.
Cathy



Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Cathy Covets...The Hermes Jeweled Kelly Bag

Cathy Covets... 
The Hermes Jeweled Kelly Bag 

For this week's installment of Cathy Covets..., I have found a new obsession --> the limited edition Hermes jeweled Kelly handbag!  I came across a picture of it in the April issue of Bazaar magazine.  To say that I was awestruck, would be an understatement!  Here it is and then the details...


This "jeweled bag" is a condensed version of the Kelly.  It is made up of rose gold and diamonds and functions as both a handbag and bracelet.  How does it function as a bracelet?  The stone-studded handle is meant to double as a cuff bracelet.  It also has a detachable shoulder strap.  Designed by Pierre Hardy and two years in the making, it is limited to an edition of 3 pieces.  
"It's a very small bag and an enormous jewel." ~ Pierre Hardy
Features:
  • 1600 diamonds, weighing 33.94 carats
  • Each piece of rose gold is shaped, polished, and set to achieve a crocodile effect
  • 6" in height and sized to fit a credit card, lipstick and "perhaps another jewel" ~Hardy
Priced at approximately $2 million...are you game?!   

In addition to the Kelly bag, there will be three other styles available, similar in size and price and also limited to 3 pieces (for a total of 12 pieces in the collection).  The one other style which information has been released on is the jeweled Birkin bag...

Features:
  • 2700 diamonds, weighing 90 carats
  • Rose gold
  • 6" in height
Hmmmmm...one of each???
  
I would like to take the opportunity in today's post to thank all of you for reading my blog and leaving all your informative, inspiring, and so kind comments.  I just realized that today is the 3 month anniversary of my blog (blogiversary?).  Three months may seem insignificant in the big picture, but for a girl who started a blog on a whim to share her love of style and design, I very much appreciate all the support y'all have given.  Keep viewing and keep the comments coming!  You can also follow me on GFC and/or Bloglovin'  (links on this page).
Thank you!
xo
Cathy 



Friday, April 13, 2012

April Product Reviews...

April Product Reviews...

                     WEN  Cleansing Conditioner and
               Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer

Hey girls!  Today's post is the first of (what is likely to be) a monthly post giving my personal review of new (to me) beauty products.  This month I am featuring WEN Cleansing Conditioner and  Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer.  I have been familiar with both of these products for some time, as both have been available for awhile, but I finally gave in to the Wen trend about a month and a half ago and the Jergens craze about a week ago. So, here goes (and remember these reviews are only my personal experience from using the product for the specified period of time)...



WEN Cleansing Conditioner

What the product is:
An all-in-one shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler, leave-in conditioner, and shaving cream. It is formulated for all hair types, including chemically treated.  It contains no stripping agents, detergents, harsh chemicals, or sodium lauryl/laureth sulfates.  Available in a variety of scents.  This review is based on using the Limited Edition Winter Vanilla Mint scent.   

Manufacturer's suggested method of application:
Apply 16-30 pumps of cleansing conditioner to palms and rub together.  Use 30-40 pumps for longer/thicker hair.  Apply to scalp, add a splash of water, and massage vigorously for 1-3 minutes.  Comb through and allow to set for 3-5 minutes for maximum conditioning.  Comb through and rinse hair thoroughly.  It is important to use the suggested number of pumps in order to achieve the results of clean, shiny, and moisturized hair. 

Product claim:
It is a revolutionary step toward beautiful, healthy, shiny hair.  It will clean and condition hair without a lather.  WEN cleansing conditioner replaces the need for shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler, leave-in conditioner, and even shaving cream.  Without detergents, harsh chemicals, and sulfates, and without the need of a lather, it creates clean, healthy, shiny, moisturized hair.     

Product results:
Ok, so I have been using the Winter Vanilla Mint scent for about a month and a half now.  I was aware of the importance of using the suggested number of pumps.  Me, being the rebel that I am, thought I didn't need to use (what seemed like) such an excessive amount of product on my slightly longer than shoulder length hair.  Wrong!  I used 16 or so pumps for my first use and achieved nothing different from my previous products.  For my second use, I went to the other extreme and used 40 pumps. The results were amazing!  My hair was extremely moisturized and soft to the touch, not to mention slightly shinier.  I decided to experiment with the number of pumps to determine the minimum number that I could use to achieve the desired results.  For me, that number appears to be around 26.  Occasionally I will use a couple of extra pumps for additional moisturization.  

The product is relatively expensive based on the amount needed per application.  A 16oz. bottle costs about $29 and a 32oz. bottle costs about $50 (plus tax and S&H...I have yet to see it available in stores).  Depending on the number of pumps, you could use a 16oz. bottle in as little as 8 applications.  I am close to finishing off my first 16oz.bottle, so I probably will have gotten about 15 applications out of mine.  I try to justify the price with the results (never have I had hair this moisturized since chemically treating) and the fact that it acts as a shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, and leave-in conditioner.  

To quote Chaz Dean, the founder of WEN..."Are you a WEN girl?"  Now I can say, "Yes, I am!"
WEN is available at QVC.com here or Wenhaircare.com here
Do I recommend this product?  Yes, 4 stars out of 5 stars ....not 5 due to price. 


Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer - Revitalizing

What the product is:A daily moisturizer with a powerful antioxidant and Vitamin E formula that gradually creates natural-looking color.  Available in "light to medium skin tones" and "medium to tan skin tones".  This review is based on the Medium to Tan Skin Tones formula.

Manufacturer's suggested method of application:
Use daily as a body lotion.  Smooth on evenly, allowing several minutes to dry prior to dressing.  Wash hands after application.

Product claim:
Moisturizer delivers fabulous natural-looking color gradually that lasts 2X as long as the leading lotion sunless tanner and infuses your skin with a blend of effective moisturizers, vitamin E, and more antioxidant power to keep it looking healthy.  You will begin to see a subtle development of color within several days.  If color change is not as noticeable as desired, apply more frequently.  Optimum color intensity will be reached after about one week of daily use.  Continue to use it daily to maintain healthy glow.


Product results:
Ok, so I first started using this moisturizer in the medium to tan skin tones formula about a week ago.  Enough time has passed in order for the product to reach it's claimed "optimum color intensity".  I had mixed feelings after the first application.  Fortunately I applied it in the evening because the smell was somewhat offensive.  I noticed almost immediately the moisturizing benefits, and within a couple of hours I started seeing a subtle color change.  My skin was still moisturized the next morning and I noticed additional color to my skin.  Unfortunately, the odor was still there, and I couldn't wait to jump into the shower.  I realized that I would need to keep doing my applications in the evening because of the odor.  

I applied the moisturizer once a day as recommended.  The manufacturer didn't provide a suggestion on the optimum amount to use, so I applied about a quarter size amount to each arm and double that for each leg.  The moisturization benefits continued to be amazing!  With each application, I observed a continual, gradual increase in color for the first several days.  After about day three, the color increase leveled off.  I increased the application amount slightly, but I have not seen any difference.  Either my skin has reached the optimum color intensity or I need to increase the amount I am using.  

The current result is an even, medium golden color...and no orange!  My skin has the look of having spent the weekend at the beach without the sun damage and red, sunburned skin.  The color isn't as intense as other self tanners but comes without the streaking, orange color undertone, or darkened areas that many other self tanners create at knees, elbows, and knuckles.  The price is a plus too, being under $10 for a 7.5oz. bottle.  Most other self tanners are quite a bit more expensive.    

Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer is available at most drugstores.
Do I recommend this product?  Yes, 3.5 out of 5 stars...not 5 due to odor and maximum color intensity


Hopefully these reviews are beneficial and you consider giving one or both of these products a try.  I especially recommend trying the WEN because the potential health benefits to your hair are amazing!  I would love to hear your feedback on these reviews and on the products themselves if you have used or are using them. 

Have a great weekend!
Cathy



 


 

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Collaboration: Alberta Ferretti for Impulse at Macy's

Collaboration: Alberta Ferretti for Impulse at Macy's

Time for another collaboration...(drum roll)... Alberta Ferretti for Impulse at Macy's!  There have been a number of designer lower-priced lines/mass retailer collaborations that have hit the market over the last couple of years.  Personally, I continue to find them interesting and a great way to access high-end designer clothing at affordable prices.  Hopefully, you agree :)  So, here is one of the newest...


This new collection will launch at Macy's stores on April 17th.  The 30 piece limited-edition capsule will be priced between $49-$119.  It showcases many of the spring/summer trends: brights, whites, florals, maxis, and lace and crochet.  The collection is inspired by summer days on the Italian Amalfi Coast.

Here is an excerpt from an Alberta Ferretti interview with Stylelist (discussing the new collection):

How did you translate the Alberta Ferretti aesthetic to Macy's?
The collection I created for Macy’s grew from the same sense of discrete glamour that is typical of my evening-wear designs. I wanted to give this collection a twist, and that twist was to create clothing that was tied to the summer, the Italian “dolce vita” and a weekend on the Amalfi coast. 

What do you think of the experience shopping in an American department store?
The American “mega-stores” are the most interesting stores in the world. Inside you can find the endless personalities and different points of view of all the major designers and new talents of the world.


A peek at some of the pieces in the upcoming collection:


The floral maxi...My fave piece in the collection...And likely to be one of the bestsellers...$99

The tangerine maxi...also to be priced at $99


Which are your favorites?  Personally, I am loving several pieces in this line, but my favorites based on pictures alone are that floral maxi dress, the watercolor dress, and the navy crochet pants.  I would love to hear your thoughts on the collection!

 Be sure to check out this Friday's post.  I will be writing product reviews on two beauty items!

Happy Wednesday!
Cathy  





Monday, April 9, 2012

Cathy Covets... The Cartier Juste Un Clou Collection

Cathy Covets... The Cartier Juste Un Clou Collection

Hey, girls!  Hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend.  Well, it's a new week and time for a new edition of Cathy Covets... This week, in perfect timing with the Friday, April 13 launch, it is all about the reissue of the Cartier nail bracelet.   

Yes, it's true --> The Cartier nail bracelet, which was originally designed and made famous in the 1970's, is being reissued this week.  It will be part of the "Juste Un Clou" collection...translated from French as "Just a Nail".  
 
The Cartier Nail Bracelet was created by in-house designer Aldo Cipullo, who was also the mastermind behind the more famous Cartier Love Bracelet. 

The designer, Aldo Cipullo, and an original Cartier nail bracelet...inscription reads 1972


The workings of a 1970s Cartier nail bracelet
 
The collection will consist of variations of the nail bracelet and ring --> in 18k yellow, rose, and white gold either with or without pave diamonds.  The bracelet will be available in two sizes: small or large, with the size not being a choice of length, but thickness. 

 

Showing sizing and diamond options in 18k rose gold


Showing choice of plain or with pave diamonds in 18k white gold


Showing size options (small or large) based on thickness in 18k yellow gold

The collection will be available in select Carter boutiques starting April 13th.  Pricing has yet to be announced.

So, what do you think of the reissue?  Are you familiar with the original?  Many of us own or at least heard of the more famous Cartier Love Bracelet, but this (as I call it) less talked about sister may finally get some well deserved recognition!   My thoughts...When I think of the Love bracelet, I think classy chic.  To me, the Nail bracelet conveys a message of classy with a fun, rebellious side.  I see a place for both in the jewelry collection, and I would often wear them together (should I be fortunate enough to be gifted one of these!).  

I would love to hear your thoughts!

 Cathy



 

Friday, April 6, 2012

Easter Entertaining...Dresses and Desserts

Easter Entertaining...Dresses and Desserts

My 7 mo. old niece Olivia's Easter dress
As we approach the Easter weekend, I hope everybody has the opportunity to spend time with family, friends, and loved ones.  Whether you are traveling or remaining local, I hope you stay safe and have a relaxing, refreshing, and renewing Easter.  No doubt you will be involved with enjoyable holiday favorite foods (turkey/ham, deviled eggs, and all the fun desserts and candy)...and of course, there is the ever important what to wear :)

Do we really ever outgrow that little girl feeling of giddiness while wearing a beautiful dress to church on Easter morning and then to brunch or a get-together?  So, as an adult, whether we are going to church and/or an Easter gathering, we want to look and feel like "Spring".                                                                                          

When I think of Easter dresses for 2012, I think ...
  • Loose, flowy, and breezy
  • Airy cottons, lace, chiffons
  • Fuller skirts and maxis
  • Pastels, brights, and whites
  • Spring prints esp. florals
  • Strappy, sleeveless, halters, slipdresses
  • All of the above worn in a somewhat refined yet fresh way
So, here are a few dress ideas for the Easter weekend and continuing on through Spring...
Sherbet colored pastels...

   ASOS wrap dress with bow    ($63)

 Bebe zip front ruffle detail silk dress   ($139)


 H&M calf-length dress   ($59.95)

LC Lauren Conrad Polka-Dot Pleated Dress   Kohl's ($44.80 /orig. $64) and similar here


Looks in white and neutrals..

 Timo Weiland Tennessee Dress   shopbop.com ($506).  Love this one!


Rachel Zoe Joplin Dress   shopbop.com ($148.50 /orig. $495)



Alexander Wang seamed apron slip dress  shopbop.com ($405 /orig. $1350)


H&M flared knee-length dress  ($29.95)

Prints (particularly florals)...

Cache Garden Of Eden Dress  ($168)


    LC Lauren Conrad dress collection at Kohl's.  She has a wide range of spring dresses available through Kohl's, including the ones shown above.


Bebe printed maxi dress  ($249)

 ModCloth New Zeal Dress   ($84.99)

Tbags ruffle strapless jersey maxi dress  Nordstrom.com ($188)


Kate Spade New York Trisha solar-print dress   NeimanMarcus.com ($378)


 Lauren by Ralph Lauren floral jersey sheath dress   Nordstrom.com ($134).  An option for those who prefer a straight style dress over the flowy styles.


Blumarine leaf-print tunic dress  NeimanMarcus.com  ($1195.00).  This is my favorite dress of the group!  I have been eyeing it for awhile.  If only it becomes available at 95% off  :)


David Meister stripe-print sleeveless dress   NeimanMarcus.com  ($415)


For those of  you who live in cooler climates, it may be a little early for sleeveless and strappy dresses.  There are some beautiful partial or long sleeve dress options available.  Or, why not utilize the versatility of the sleeveless dress by adding a blazer?  A couple of sleeved dress looks...


Fashion blogger Julia Engel in Queen's Wardrobe lace floral layered dress   ($89)

Diane von Furstenberg wrap shirtdress   Nordstrom.com ($345).  A classic...


Dressed and ready for Easter get-togethers?
Whether you are hosting a get-together or are a guest, we all enjoy the warm feeling of an Easter atmosphere in the home.  Here are a few images bringing the Easter celebration into the home...


Marshmallow peeps and jellybeans arranged in a vase with fresh flowers

This image inspired me to add a candy-filled centerpiece to one of my tables...


Pastel malted milk eggs in a candy jar with my gifted ceramic bunny statues :)

Who doesn't love bunnies and lilies at Easter?






Tablesettings and food favorites...

A DIY centerpiece

...from marthastewart.com.  If it's good enough for Martha, it's good enough for me!

Fun with fruit.  Another easy and unique DIY.

A traditional favorite...deviled eggs!


Great appetizers and as place settings!  Iced pretzels paired with malted milk eggs.

An updated version of deviled eggs :)


Enough said...


Just add shredded coconut and malted milk eggs to your everyday cupcakes and voila!
Just add a  marshmallow peep to the glass rim to complete your cupcake martini :)


And most importantly to me, the celebration of Easter as the day that our Lord Jesus Christ has risen!

Cathy