Yes, we are still hard at work with the Body Center in Claremont and our Pilates adventure, but we are taking a break on telling you all about “Day 4″ until after Thanksgiving! 

Please check back soon to catch up with us.  Enjoy your holiday and eat lots of turkey!

xoxoxx, Denice and Elana

The weekend is almost upon us, but it’s never too late to catch up with The Hills on MTV. Here goes: In week thirteen, Lauren Conrad and Whitney Port pulled off the Teen Vogue Young Hollywood party beautifully. The Marc by Marc Jacobs fashion show was enjoyed by all, and although they resisted her ideas through every step of preparation, Lisa Love and Amy Astley congratulated Whitney on a job well done.

This week (episode 14), the girls were rewarded with tickets to the bash for Declare Yourself, a group that promotes voter registration.  Was it the carefree night they had hoped for?  Not if Heidi can help it.  Yes, Heidi Montag and her new office mate were – gasp! – invited to the event as well.  Channeling her inner eighth grader, Heidi strolled over to the table to start something with Lauren. In keeping with the theme of the event, Lauren declared herself by refusing to speak with Heidi unless she was going to apologize.  Thus, the confrontation died out rather quickly.

      (Awkward! Heidi confronts Lauren with demands for a reconciliation.)

But in Season 3 of MTV The Hills, Heidi has shown us that she does not give up easily – the next day, she sends Lauren a string of IM’s at the office until a meeting is finally agreed to.  However, when Heidi shows up at Lauren’s apartment bearing grocery store roses, but no admittance of guilt for starting the sex tape rumor (among others that we are too polite to address here), Lauren feeds her a line of fiery inquisitions, then says, “I want to forgive you…and I want to forget you.”  Ouch!  It hurts, but then again, isn’t the truth supposed to?

~ Brook

Photo Credits: www.MTV.com

 Yes, it’s finally here – season 4 of “Project Runway!” As expected, the premiere was wonderful. With only one episode under our (the loyal fans of course!) belt, we can agree that the designers’ personalities are definitely shining strong.

My favorite cast member already is Christian. He exudes the three F’s: fabulousness, fierceness, and fashion! This young man is the utmost of divas, but with a comedic twist. He’s sure to provide us with some great catfights this season.

As for the judges, of course we all adore Heidi Klum and the always loveable Michael Kors. But when it comes to Nina Garcia…she is a bit hard on the contestants! C’mon Nina, we all know you’re a fashion authority working at ELLE magazine, but this is just the first episode.

Last night, we were all surpised to see that the opening challenge didn’t involve designing out of any crazy materials, like we have seen in past season. With fine textiles provided by Mood Fabrics, the designers were given free range to create anything that they felt represented them.

While Rami was the winner last night (hello, stunning Greek Goddess couture!), it was the “auf wiedersehen!” for poor Simone. I definitely felt that there were others that could have went before her, but safe designs = chopping block. I was a little worried about Ricky as well. Because his piece was simple, it was considered boring. However, I must say that his dress is the only design from last night that I would  actually buy and wear. In the famous words of Tim Gunn, he just going to have to, “make it work!”

On to who I want to win “Project Runway”…I am going to stick my neck out and make an early prediction. Although he doesn’t come from as impressive design background like of his fellow cast mates, and he isn’t really someone who is too memorable, Marion seems to have what it takes. Did you see his design last night, in addition to the audition pictures of his work? He has that dramatic, over-exaggerated style that proves stunning on the runway (think last year’s winner Jeffrey and Mr. Santino Rice from season 2.)

 So what about you – who do you think will be awarded the coveted title as designer of “Project Runway’s” season 4? Remember, the stakes are high: a spread in ELLE, a 2008 Saturn Astra, $100,000 from TRESemmè to start their own line, and the opportunity to sell their clothing on Bluefly.com (be sure to check out the new contest on Bluefly.com, which we can all enter!)

(<– Dress by Marion Lee from “Project Runway”)

Who are you rooting for?

~ Leeann

Photo Credits: http://www.bravotv.com

 Recently, I won a fabulous Brighton-inspired watch from  My Chic Things on its weekly “Ask Chic Girl Friday”  fashion giveaway. I mean, a really cute bracelet-like, silver watch! (It came in a beautiful pouch and wrapped in the coolest tissue paper I’ve ever seen – leopard print!) This is how I got to know the founder of this online boutique blog, Elizabeth Anderson.

See Fridays, for me, means many things…such as staying up late blogging without having to set my alarm for the next day, curling up with my honey and a movie, and formulating new fashion questions for Beth’s Friday post. Is it possible to win twice? (Hmmmm….I gotta check with her.)

Selling beautiful, vintage-inspired stationary to unique scarfs and accessories on My Chic Things, Beth didn’t come up with the idea of an affordable online gift shop on a whim.

As an elementary school teacher for over 23 years, and married with an endearing 9-year-old daughter and 17-year-old son, she was also a buyer for her mother-in-law’s gift shop and has tons of retail experience. With a degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Michigan, working with young ones comes natural to Beth. But as a “real girly girl,” she was eager to channel her energy into an area that allows others to participate in one of her favorite pastimes: shopping!

  “I’m always looking for ways to look good and feel good about myself. This is the idea I am trying to get across to My Chic Things customers. You don’t have to spend a lot of money and have ‘designer’ everything all the time. Have fun and experiment!”

Here, at Beauty Chat, we adore Beth. After frequent correspondence, I realized how refreshing it is know that both us share the “feel good, look good” philosophy.

Now my only dilemma is when I should wear my new watch! Do I wear it daily as my staple piece of jewelry? Or, do I save it for special moments and special outfits? I’d love to know what you think. I rarely admit that I need help when it comes to accessorizing my outfits, but…..

HELP!

~ Elana

Photo Credits: Directly from Beth

One up-and-coming, premier magazine that champions the   notion of ethnic beauty has officially found its place on the bookshelf of your local Barnes & Noble and selected Borders and news stands. Enter Coexistence Magazine (cheers to founders and two of my best buds – Shahdad Kelishadi and Varuzhan Shahidzadeh)!

Coexistence is rare in its print media nature. Aside from its underlying goal to create an intercultural kinship amongst a said culturally-divided Middle Eastern community, the magazine also intends to bring forth a fresh kind of beauty. “Shake” and “VS” want to “show another side of beauty that no one has ever really seen.” Shadowing this vision, their publication showcases page-turning spreads of refreshingly stunning and voluptuous Middle Eastern women, a la Leyla Milani and Donna Feldman (definitely a contrast from your runway waif ideal).

Men, these photos are certainly a sight for sore eyes…not to mention dry mouth. And ladies, I’m sure you will too find pleasure in the exquisite fashion layouts, especially featuring vibrantly-colored evening gowns that are bound to evoke your inner seductress.

Conjuring up editorials from politics and culture to dating and relationships, Coexistence is already locking eyes with many a reader. If you’re a relentless browser who thumbs through the pages in search of photos that scream style maven, then this magazine is sure to satisfy your fashion fix. Be sure to pick up your copy today, and step into a largely untapped world of beauty that is simply beautiful.

~ Mellori

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Coexistence Magazine

 Denice’s Personal Story: So I really did not want to go  to Pilates the day of session 3.  I was tired…more like EXHAUSTED!!!!  But, for the good of my body (and to stick something out) I reluctantly went.  This turned out to be a good decision on my part. 

When we arrived at the Body Center in Claremont, Elana and I were greeted by the ever-so-charming and happy face of Jeff Fairley, owner and director of the “Physical Therapy and Pilates Training” facility. Jeff makes you feel so important and welcome;  he is always so encouraging and makes you feel like you can do anything.  We love Jeff!  We were a tad bit early today so we took a breather and relaxed on the comfy couch in the back of the center and waited for our fabulous instructor, Stephanie, to arrive. 

And of course she was there,  ready to work us at 5 p.m. SHARP. Today was unique as Elana and I were the only two in the class!  It was kind of cool because I did not feel bad stopping and asking Stephanie to clarify questions on technique or position.  She was great at explaining how important the position of your pelvic area and lower back are in Pilates. 

Here is some terminology (EverythingAboutPilates.com) that Stephanie throws around that I am finally getting a grasp on:

Neutral Spine:  where your hip bones and pubic bone are held in the same plane. It is neither too flexed nor too extended in the lumbar spine.

Imprinted Spine: A term generated in the Stott Pilates method of Pilates. A place where the lumbar spine is slightly more flexed giving the feeling of your lower back being closer to the mat.

Table Top: When lying on your back, a place where your legs are elevated and bent at a 90 degree angle both at the hip and at the knees. Legs squeeze gently together to engage inner thighs.

C-Curve: Where the spine is flexed into letter “C” position. Enables the feeling of strong navel to spine and prepares you to roll through the spine smoothly.

Now that I know and understand these terms and their importance in Pilates, I am able to concentrate on the specific muscle groups needed to perform the actual exercises.  I think my favorite would have to be leg circles.  I feel like I get the BEST stretch on these.  My least favorite thing to hear come out of Stephanie’s mouth is “Let’s do 100s.”  When I hear this, I know the “Good Shakes” are to follow.

Check back next week to see how I am doing!!!

Elana Personal Story: I was completely in tune with my body on “Day 3.” In fact, I actually busted a sweat. In pushing myself to really stretch, twist, and follow instructions, I began to notice how flexible I’m becoming. Who knows? Maybe after awhile, I will be able to do the splits! (Then again, I couldn’t do splits at 8 years old even when I took gymnastics…so I need to at least maintain some sort of realistic expectations)

That said, I take back the fact that Pilates doesn’t make you sweat. Maybe I should rephrase my initial thoughts to: “Pilates can cause you to sweat but not nearly as much as cardio.” There – that’s much more accurate. I’ve just redeemed a relatively false statement.

As Denice mentioned, we had private lessons from Stephanie at the Body Center. Even though she enjoys it a bit more when her class fills up to capacity, we were fortunate enough to receive direct, one-on-one attention from her, a certified Pilates instructor. I only know this because I asked her; I was curious to know which type of atmosphere is more conducive to her enthusiastic type of teaching. She still looked like she enjoyed our efforts, saying “Great job you guys!”

The next day I didn’t feel a thing really, except for a bizarre sort of pain under my armpit. Everywhere else was fine. Tonight is session 4, and I am going to have a little chit-chat with Jeff prior to our Pilates course at the Body Center in Claremont. I look forward to interviewing him! Not only is it a pleasure to learn even more about this intricate type of exercise, but Jeff is such a pleasure to work with, so I know his answers will be real and forthright.

xoxox, Denice and Elana

I love anything that comes in a pretty package. It almost doesn’t matter what’s inside; if the package is unique and I can squeeze multiple uses out of it when the product is gone, I’m instantly in love with it. Of course, it’s even more exciting when the product is actually good! 

The latest item I’ve come across that satisfies both criteria is Oral Fixation mints.  The packaging is a brushed metal tin that represents a sort of classic, minimalist design.  If you’re going for the cosmopolitan look, retrieving these from your clutch or bag can definitely make a more favorable statement than your Tic-Tac ® box.  As for the multiple usage factor, I’ll probably also store change, cash, or business cards in the cute case when the mints are emptied.

So, how do they taste?  I tried the Mojito Mint, inspired by the cocktail of the same name – with lime oil and mint oil among the ingredients, I have to say, this is almost as good!  (Did you know that cocktail flavors are a rising trend in oral refreshers?  If not, you heard it on Beauty Chat first!) I also tried Jasmints, which indeed contains real jasmine oil (who doesn’t love taking in the scent of jasmine?). In this case, the floral essence is barely a hint – enough to be noticeable without overpowering. 

Although they’re available at select retailers and fine hospitality establishments, you can order your own tin case directly from Oral Fixation.  It features all nine of their distinct flavors as well as mix-and-match options for fickle individuals who can’t decide on just one…I can’t wait to try Night Light and 7 Deadly Cinnamon!

When an item starts showing up in those infamous award show and swanky event gift bags, you know it’s about to go mainstream in a big way.  So, I suggest picking up some Oral Fixation mints now, while you can still say you had them before any of your friends. 

Don’t you just love being first?

~ Brook

Product Photo Credits: Kristina from Pierce Mattie Public Relations in NY…thanks!

Hey Dr. 90210 lovers!

I want to keep you posted on the status of episode 15, the season finale. Unfortunately, I only caught parts of this show and want to see it in its entirety before giving you a full summary on iEnhance.com.

I am desperately waiting for a re-airing of the episode on E! Entertainment (and of course they aren’t airing it again for awhile: Sunday, Nov 18, 8 a.m. and Friday, Dec 14, 11 a.m.).

You can look for my recap soon. I’m so sorry about the delay! Until then, anyone have any thoughts or comments on the way the season ended? I did see the final minutes of the episode, and can I just say, definitely not the cliffhanger I expected!

~ Leeann

Denice’s Personal Story: Well walking into Pilates today was a little easier than “Day 1.”  I was much more comfortable with what was going to happen.  I was still a little sore from the first session, but I know that this is only making me stronger. 

I have a long history of hating any form of exercise.  Believe it or not, I was actually once really active.  In high school I played volleyball and swam (I was on the diving team!).  It was not until I injured my knee for the second time that I became less active.  Through college I was busy being social (shock for those who know me) and living the college experience.  Then I got married and had a kid.

Fast forward to present day…an inactive business woman.  That’s me!  I sit at my desk for at least 8 hours a day!  I do some walking, but not nearly the amount of activity I should be doing. 

Enter…my mom.  She has been attending the Body Center for Physical Therapy and Pilates Training with Jeff Fairley for the past year.  I have watched her go from having a bad back that would go out pretty frequently to being stronger than I have ever seen her before.  Jeff has helped her tremendously.  SO I thought, why not let him help me?  If I don’t want to end up with back trouble, and I want to be healthy, now is as good a time as ever.

So, I am hitting Pilate’s full force, and I love it.  My second session seemed much more difficult than the first.  Stephanie, the instructor, claims that it gets “Harder for me the longer I do it.”  She says this because you become aware of the muscles you are trying to strengthen, and your focus comes away from trying to remember the movements to concentrating on isolating the specific muscle. 

I actually think I did better “Day 2.”  Jeff and Stephanie are both very encouraging.  I think the atmosphere  at the Body Center helps you feel ready to take on anything…especially Pilates!  Look out session 3…here I come!            

Elana’s Personal Story: During session 2, I could have sworn that Stephanie turned it up a notch; I mean I really felt it in my muscles. They were stretching to a new level than the first session. But, as Denice mentioned, Stephanie explained that the more you engage in Pilates – the harder it feels! It’s funny, because with many other exercises, it’s the exact opposite. When I used to run on the treadmill (which I need to get back to!), I was able to increase my time increments because it got easier each time I hit at the gym. Five minutes turned into a non-stop 10 minutes, and before I knew it, I barely broke a sweat in a 20-minute run.

But that’s a cardio workout.

As for Pilates at the Body Center, I enjoy it getting more difficult because it DOES feel like a hardcore hour of exercise – minus a drop of sweat! Ironically, I didn’t feel as sore the next few days. So maybe in that sense, my body is growing accustomed to the pulling, lifting, and stretching. I am also proud to mention that I was not Ms. Klutzy on the machines this time around. In order to properly shift movements and positions, it is important to do it delicately and slowly. That might have helped.

Pilates revolves hugely around the breathing exercises, such as when to inhale and when to exhale. This is not easy when you are instructed to concentrate on how your back and abs are positioned on the machine (“neutral” gives you the cat-like arch in your back, and then you switch to pressing your abs against the machine, and back…Pilates definitely involves thinking. You can’t just wing it!)

Tonight is “Day 3!” I got my L.A.M.B. “band bag” packed and ready to go to the Body Center in downtown Claremont. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention one of my favorite detail about Pilates: you don’t have to wear shoes! So instead of packing my sneakers, I happily threw in a pair of comfy, cotton socks.

Here we come!

xoxox, Denice and Elana

Photo Credits: Denice’s camera working its magic!

Laptops were everywhere at the “BlogWorld & New Media Expo,” and the fingers were doing their magic everywhere you looked. Leeann and I felt like dinosaurs as we were in the minority, actually taking notes by hand. We are both journalism majors from Cal State Fullerton, so I think the reporter vibe set in.

It was an interesting trip, with inspiring courses and keynote speakers, such as the successful WordPress developer Matt Mullenweg and billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban, and Beauty Chat was smack in the center of it all!

We passionately talked up our “looking good and feeling good” philosophy to numerous bloggers, PR reps, and Internet television crews. Ms. TalkingChic here even made it on TV Thursday evening after the 2007 Weblog Awards. (It felt great promoting Beauty Chat and giving a shout out to PlasticSurgery.com, one of our popular parent Web sites.)

The Weblog Awards were held at “The Joint;” a cool nightclub at the Hard Rock Hotel. I’m not sure what I enjoyed more at this “opening party” though – the lusciously delicious chocolate fondu fountain or seeing bloggers who are well-deserved of such honors get up to the podium to say their thanks.

Overall, the “BlogWorld & New Media Expo“ was a successful event. The city of bright lights was a enjoyable outing, and probably one of the best places to meet and greet.  (Mellori, Denice, Brook, and Jacquie were with us in spirit!)

The 4-hour drive back home?  Well that’s another story….

Want to know more about our day-to-day activities at the Las Vegas Convention Center? Our humorous time spent in a hotel on the strip? Or, how Leeann came up 100 bucks from the 5 cent “Wheel of Fortune” slot machine (or how I helped her out, yet came home with zilch)?

~ Elana