Selecting the perfect evening look

Gentleman the time of year is upon you to assemble the perfect evening look.

The tuxedo is one of the most fashionable garments a gentleman can own. These days,

it seems as if the excuse to wear a tuxedo come along all too rarely, and when you are compelled to wear one you should savor the occasion.

When selecting a tuxedo there are choices to be made. What color do you prefer: Black?

Graphite? Midnight Blue? All are acceptable and should reflect your individual style. Next up

is the type of lapel: Notch? Peak? Shawl? Once those are decided a gentleman needs to select

the perfect shirt, a bow tie or necktie and finally cufflinks that have just the right amount of sparkle.

Take time and care when putting together your look. After all not just woman want to

turn heads when they walk into a room in their finery!

It's going to be a very fashionable New Year's Eve!

What is my most prized deal?!

Retail Therapy: Colin Megaro

Colin Megaro is a stylist for some of TV’s hottest talent including, Julie Benz and David Zayas of Dexter, Carrie Preston of True Blood and Michael Emerson of LOST, Missi Pyle and The Secret Life of the American Teenager’s Daren Kagasoff. Sure he has helped dozens of small screen stars dress their best but more notworthy is the fact that Colin is credited for coining the phrase, "Shopping in Your Closet." Now this is a man we can get along with:

Your most prized "deal?”
My most prized deal is an Alexander McQueen Hand Beaded Tuxedo Coat, I was able to score it at almost 50% off. It's cashmere, classic lapel and the hand-beading is black on black. It was the last one on the store. It's the perfect topper for my tuxedo, and adds some amazing sparkle to my jeans.



Biggest regret that you didn't purchase?
Honestly, I don't have a regret because of something I haven't purchased. If I love a piece, and know it will add to my collection, I buy it. If it is something I just sort of like, I leave it in the store. I always know when I have to have it, and then I buy!

This season your clients are looking for a great deal on what item?
My clients are looking for deals on anything. The upside to our crazy economy is that everything is on sale, and what isn't has a price that is probably open for some negotiation. One of the things that many of my clients want most are over the knee boots. They want pairs that are flat, heeled and everything in between. These gorgeous boots are going to be everywhere this fall.

What's your number one shopping tip?
My best shopping tips are patience and research. You should find out when shipments arrive at your favorite stores, and research stores and websites that have great deals. Also, take the time to shop Vintage shops. With a bit of patience, you can find amazing items at killer prices.

What's your biggest weakness?
I have something to admit. I have more then one weakness when it comes to fashion. First, I can't pass an Hermes or vintage store without stopping in to buy a new scarf. Everyday, I tend to wear a white shirt, with a neutral blazer and a scarf as the topper. Second, shoes. Need I say more? I love everything from puma sneakers to custom made Gucci Loafers (and everything in between.) There is nothing like the perfect pair of shoes to finish an outfit off. My final weakness, without a doubt, is bags. I had to have another closet built to house all of mine. Great construction, beautiful leathers and bags that get a nod when I pass by are a huge weakness.

Is there an item for which a shopper should never mind paying full price?
You should never pay full price for any item. There is always room for negotiation, and you can always wait until a sale happens. My only exception to this rule is if the item is something you absolutely can't live without, or is one of a kind.

Cheers! It's time to order some champagne!

New Year's Eve is almost upon us and that means it's time for us to start buying champagne. If you are anything like me it's a bit over-whleming knowing what champagne is going to taste the best, be in my price range and make everyone happy. Here is guide to help you learn the fashionable ins and outs of champagne buying!

Learn some French.

Only sparkling wines from the Champagne region of France can be called champagne. Seven grape varietals can be used to make it, but you’re 99 percent likely to come across only three: chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier.

In theory, the flavor of a blend should reflect its ratio of red to white grapes, but the barrel can affect the way a wine tastes almost as much as the grape.

A champagne made from 100 percent chardonnay is called blanc de blancs—“white from white” grapes; a champagne made from one or both of the pinots is a blanc de noirs—“white from blacks”; and a champagne blending white and red grapes is a cuvée. “A blanc de blancswill taste more minerally, with notes of fresh bread or toast,” says Gray. “A blanc de noirs will taste broader and warmer, with a little more of a red fruit quality, sometimes with more rusticity.” In theory, the flavor of a blend should reflect its ratio of red to white grapes, but the barrel can affect the way a wine tastes almost as much as the grape. Ask about both before making a selection. “A pinot noir that’s been made in a steel barrel is going to have quite a chiseled flavor,” says Gray, “whereas a 100 percent chardonnay champagne that’s been aged in oak will taste broader.”

Finally, rosé styles get their telltale color from the addition of still red wine to the mix or a complicated fermentation technique. “It costs more to make, so it’s more expensive,” Gray adds.

Show your age.
The next big distinction: vintage versus non-vintage. Every house’s entry-level bottles are its non-vintage offerings, and there’s way more to them than their cheaper price tag. For starters, they’re consistent. The big brands, in particular, keep vast reserves of wine from numerous years, so whatever the results of the most recent harvest, they can always create a non-vintage blend that adheres to house style. If you liked the Moët you had two years ago, you’re going to like the Moët on the shelves at your local wine store.

But if you want a wine that will mature well and increase in complexity over time, vintage is the way to go. Make sure you’re buying a good year and that, if you plan on popping it right away, it’s ready. “In terms of recent vintages, it’s looking like the ’02 and ’04 have the potential to be put down for a while, although the ’02’s are already pretty delightful,” says Gray.

Root for the little guy.
Houses like Krug, Moët, and Dom Pérignon dominate the shelves, but they aren’t the only ones out there. Estate or grower champagnes—wines made by the same farmers producing the grapes—have taken on cache lately for their unique flavor profiles and artisan backstory. They’re cheaper, too. Gray likes vintage champagne from The Special Club, a group of 26 small growers who banded together in the ’80s to take on the big houses. Their champagnes, she says, “often surpass vintage Dom.”

Choose your weapon.
Now you have to ask yourself: Why am I buying this bottle? If you want something in the fridge for impromptu celebrations, pick up a non-vintage cuvée; it gives off an “oh, this ol’ thing?” vibe. For a boss or a loved one—someone you want to impress—go with a vintageblanc de blancs, which is generally considered the best type to drink on its own. Dinner party with friends? A rosé conveys that you appreciate the trouble your hosts are going through. (“Champagne is one of the most food friendly wines there is,” says Gray. “It has relatively low alcohol and high acidity, so it pairs well with a wide range of foods, and some of the rosés can even stand up to steak.”) Table at the club? Just get the most expensive stuff they’ll sell you.

As with most special purchases, the best thing to do is find a good local store, make friends, and ask questions. In the run up to Dec. 31, most of your more reputable wine stores host tastings and have staff experts on hand. If there’s a more enjoyable way to educate yourself and research holiday gifts at the same time, we haven’t heard of it.

Holiday Message from the Colin Megaro Team.

The holiday season is filled with festivity and family gatherings. It is also the perfect time to highlight our gratitude to our parents, clients and friends to reflect on the end of another year, and to think of a new year and all the endless possibilities it brings with enthusiasm.

For many of you, today is the last day of work before a long weekend. So Happy holidays, dear friends. I sincerely hope you enjoy your weekend, and hope that 2012 is the year for you! The Colin Megaro Team wishes you an abundance of happiness, love and fun this holiday season. We believe that living every day like it is a holiday, being thankful and spending time with family, and looking hopefully to the future is important. We hope that you are surrounded by peace and warmth and we wish you health, comfort, and prosperity.New Year is the time to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the coming year. It is the time for new beginnings and new starts in life.

Season's Greetings. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from us to you!

GIFT GUIDE

1. APTIVIA SKINCARE – QUEEN BEE

A 90% natural, anti-aging line centered on proteins, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, and vitamin-rich royal jelly, it encourages collagen production, while organic honey, beeswax, shea butter, and rice bran oil intensely hydrate thirsty skin – amazing! The emollient, lightly scented salve imparts just the right amount of moisture overnight to leave your skin soft and without flakes in the morning, without an oily residue that usually causes breakouts. Hypoallergenic-dermatologically tested.

$80.00

http://www.apivita.com/usa/lines?137/

2. TOM FORD - NIKITA SUNGLASSES

Feel glamorous in these exaggerated shades. Choose between light Havana (tortoise), shiny black or shiny cream plastic cat eye frames. These stunning Tom Ford shades are hot on the runway, have tonal lenses with logo detail at top of left, thin arm pieces and are 100% UV protection. Made in Italy.

$360.00

http://www.tomford.com/#/en/eyewear/womens/sun

3. HUDSON JEANS – NICO STYLE

Hudson Jeans are incredibly ionic. Hudson 

has introduced its “Second Skin” next innovation in fabric technology. Made from 67% cotton, 29% polyester blend, and 4% lycra, it is the ultimate in stretch comfort, yet perfectly retains its shape for an uncompromising fit. 

Try the newest style 'Nico', HUDSON's skinniest 5 pocket midrise yet! Inspired by Nico, the famed singer and Warhol muse this jean has a super skinny fit, sure to bring you some of her incredible confidence and superb '60s chic style. 



$210-$265

http://www.hudsonjeans.com

4. KATE SPADE – FALL FOOTWEAR

The Kate Spade fall 2011 footwear collection has arrived this season. In demand by art enthusiasts, stylish professionals, and the culturally curious, the brand is taking on fall with must-have heels that compliment any style. These classic heels with bold, unique details and designs reflect the ultra chic style. Shop the fall collection for chunky heels, which are comfortable, glamorous glitter, lovely leopard and feminine bows. 


$320+

http://www.katespade.com/

- Farah Esmail

Oh Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah, come light the Menorah,

Let's have a PARTY; we'll all dance the hora.

The eight-day Jewish celebration known as Hanukkah, which means “dedication” in Hebrew, commemorates the rededication during the second century B.C. of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, where according to legend Jews had risen up against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt. Hanukkah begins on the 25th of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar and usually falls in November or December. Often called the Festival of Lights, the holiday is notable with the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games and gift exchanging. Hanukkah comes from the Hebrew word "Khanu" meaning "and they rested," and from the Hebrew date “Kaf Hey” which equals 25. That is why the Jewish celebrate Hanukah beginning on the 25th of the month of Kislev.

Significance of Hanukkah

According to Jewish rule, Hanukkah is not their biggest holiday. However, Hanukkah has become a lot more popular in modern practice because of its proximity to Christmas.

Since the Jewish calendar is lunar based, every year the first day of Hanukkah falls on a different day – usually sometime between late November and late December. Many Jews live in predominately Christian societies so over time Hanukkah has developed into much a festive and Christmas-like holiday. Jewish children receive one gift for each of the eight nights of the holiday – lucky kids! Jewish parents hope that by making Hanukkah extra special their young children, they won't feel left out of all the Christmas festivities that surround them.

Hanukkah Traditions

Every community has its unique Hanukkah traditions, but there are some traditions that are commonly practiced. The lighting the Hanukkah, spinning the dreidal and indulging in fried foods – yumm-o! Well, this is the season to put on the pounds, right? That’s why there is a thing called, “New Years Resolution” so you can make more of an effort to attend aerobics classes.

Lighting the Hanukkah

Every year it is customary to commemorate the miracle of the Hanukkah oil by lighting candles on a Hanukkah. The Hanukkah is lit every night for eight nights.

Spinning the dreidel

A popular Hanukkah game is spinning the dreidel, which is a four-sided top with Hebrew letters written on each side. In Hebrew the dreidel is called a "sevivon," which comes from the root "savov" and also means, "to turn."

Miracle of Oil and Gifts

Gift giving is now a common practice on Hanukkah and loved by all Jewish children.

Hanukkah celebrates the miracle of oil so therefore it is traditional to eat fried foods galore. Potato pancakes (known as latkes) and jam-filled donuts (sufganiyot) are particularly popular in many Jewish households served with applesauce. Are you salivating? Pack on the pounds!

Want healthy and glowing skin during the Winter + Beauty tips?

-Farah Esmail

Dry skin is a very common skin problem and is often worse during the winter when environmental humidity is low. Have you ever had the Winter Itch? It can occur at all ages and in people with or without other skin problems causing you to feel uncomfortable. Lets fight the war against flaky, dry skin and make sure our skin is soft and supple!

Moisturize more aggressively: Your summer moisturizer just might not cut it for winter months. Instead of a light, water-based lotion or cream, search for an oil based cream which will not only add moisture to your skin, but also add a layer of protection to keep it from drying out like avocado, mineral, primrose, or almond oil. Did you know that 100% pure Moroccon or Argon oil is beneficial to your hair, nails AND SKIN!? Use it as a moisturizer. This natural oil gives your skin the vitality and beauty it deserves. The Vitamin F (essential fatty acids) rejuvenates skin cells, encouraging the growth of new healthy cells while helping to shed dead ones. Hallelujah!

Moisturizing right after you shower and remember, short, warm showers are the best. A long, hot shower can dry out your skin.

Protect your hands: The skin on your hands is particularly sensitive to the ravages of winter because it doesn't have the same concentration of oil glands many other parts of your body have. Use gentle hand soap and a moisturizer after you wash. Herbacin Kamille Hand cream is amazing. It smooths the skin, moisturizes and keeps the skin elastic silicon. Herbacin acts like an invisible glove, protecting against everyday environmental abuse and delivers moisture and protection to rough, chapped skin. This hand cream is cheap as chips too!

1. Drink more water:

Everything has a natural way of keeping itself healthy, and skin is no exception. In order to make your skin look healthy and glowing, drink lots and lots of water, for water is the main source of moisture for your skin. Herbal teas are excellent too and heat up the body making you feel warm and fuzzy. Avoid the intake of caffeine and alcohol for they absorb your body’s moisture and make your skin dry and cracked.

2. Use a Humidifier:

Heating systems of all sorts -- central air, radiators, space heaters dry out your skin quite a bit. Put the moisture back into the air with a humidifier

3. Choose your Moisturizer wisely:

Your summer moisturizer just might not cut it for winter months. Instead of a light, water-based lotion or cream, search for an oil based cream which will not only add moisture to your skin, but also add a layer of protection to keep it from drying out like avocado, mineral, primrose, or almond oil. Moisturize right after you shower and remember, short, warm showers are the best. A long, hot shower can dry out your skin.

4. Take Baths in Warm Water:

Winter is a season in which you constantly want to stay warm. Take warm baths and showers so your skin does not dry out and have a snake like appearance.

5. Use Body Scrub while Bathing:

Dry skin is in essence, dead. In order to remove this dead skin, use a body scrub while bathing for scrubbing is an efficient way of getting your body rid of all dead skin clinging to it. An effective at home, all natural scrub consists of organic sugar, olive oil and honey. Mmm, Your skin will love you! If you are too lazy to make your own scrub, try Fresh’s brown sugar body polish. Whisk away rough patches at the knees and elbows, while almond, apricot, and jojoba oils leave skin impossibly soft and supple. And to sweeten the deal? Smells so good, you will want to take a bite!

6. Oil Massages:

Oil massages get rid of dead skin and create a layer of oils that prevent moisture from escaping from your body. Whole Foods has great all natural oils that are paraben free such as the sweet almond oil or lavendar. Care about what you out on your body just as much as what you put in it. Enjoy being pampered and relax!

7. Apply Sunscreen:

Use sunscreen because it protects the skin from harmful UV rays. Sunscreen also prevents wrinkles. Use a Vitamin C serum daily for a collagen boost and notice your skin looking brighter and softer in the winter months. Vitamin C is loaded with antioxidants to fight off environmental aggressors and has moisture-binding ingredients so your skin can be protected during the winter months. Try Ole Henrickson’s Truth Serem.

8. Use Lip Balm:


During winter your lips loose their moisture and get very chapped. Licking your lips can make matters worse. Throughout the day, use a lip balm and apply a lip conditioning treatment before bed. Try Burt’s Bees rejuvenating lip balm with Açaí Berry. Açaí Berry, which has tons of free radical fighting antioxidants and is really great for your skin.

9. Intake of Flaxseed Oil:


Did you know that flaxeed oil keeps you moisturized from the inside? Take this oil in capsule form as it doesn’t have a pleasant taste in liquid form.

Spruce up your home-sweet-home this holiday season. Color is KEY!

-Farah Esmail

At this time of year, you want to do something to make your home look festive and special and create the wonderful Christmas holiday atmosphere.

1. Decorate With Bows.

Tie generous ribbons to chair backs, chandeliers candlesticks, wreaths, garlands, basket handles, stair railings, and doorknobs. Make sure your ribbons can untie so you can reuse them next year and save money. Bows look very festive and the ribbons you choose should tie together with the rest of your decorating. Ribbons that have similar colors and patterns and coordinate with the rest of your decorating scheme will make it look classy, not trashy! Try spicing up your colors to metallics. Metallics are quite trendy this season!

2. Use holiday tableware for every meal during the holidays.

‘Tis the season to be fancy! Look through your cupboards and get out any dishes that look festive. If you don’t have anything that appeals to the eye, check our discount stores that offer various types of china at a great price that wont break your bank. Start a set of holiday dishes with dinner plates that coordinate with your everyday dishes. When the dishes are not in use, they dishes can be displayed around the room.

3. Create a festive glow and turn off the lights (not just because it saves money and its eco-friendly).

Arrange a bunch of candles on the dining table and dine by candlelight, even if you're just having leftovers or a simple snack. Every meal will feel special. Sit around your fireplace and enjoy your family’s company and write Christmas cards or sip on some hot cocoa.

4. Hang holiday wreaths.

Put a wreath or swag on every door you have. The most important wreath should always be on your front door to welcome guests. Don't forget bedroom doors, inside and out. You can use pine, holly, flowers, grapevine, berries, pinecones, photos, ornaments or candy - Mmm.

7. Everything is better when it’s sweet.

Prepare a bowl of fresh fruit or holiday cookies to put out as soon as guests arrive. You can bake a cake and set it on your dining table with traditional candy canes set around it. Another great idea that kids will love: Make or buy a gingerbread house for decoration and snacking. The kids will definitely indulge.

8. Shine and sparkle to everything!

Sprinkle artificial snow across your tabletop or on house plants that will create a winter wonder land effect or place shiny ornaments in a glass bowl or vase for an elegant look. A budget friendly way of adding sparkle is to buy styrofoam cones which are an inexpensive purchase at craft stores and decorate them by gluing items on

Keep things simple! You'll find that you can enjoy the season, lights, warm and fuzzy feeling and the traditions with family and friends without getting exhausted. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!