Here at Beauty Chat, we are accustomed to writing about the beauty that each person encompasses (or can be attained with the help of wonderful products), but this time, the beauty I am talking about is the natural splendor of Riviera Maya.

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico (think 30 miles south of Cancun, and way less commercialized), rests the gorgeous stretch of land known as Riviera Maya, or the “Mayan Riviera.” The resort we stayed at was nestled in between the jungle and the Caribbean Sea, providing a picturesque setting that I in no way had expected. I guess I imagined it to be more like Cabo San Lucas, which is more of an invented getaway than an untouched paradise.

The beaches were covered with white sand and palapas, and the ocean was a beautiful green that I had never seen before. Oh, and the weather, it was in the mid 80s…pretty great environment for early December!

From the moment we arrived on a Sunday night, until the following Sunday morning when we left, life seemed to be filled with new and exciting experiences. I embarked on this trip with my mom and dad, and we tried to take in all that the region had to offer. Although our days were a bit rushed, I am glad we decided to take multiple excursions.

One of the outings that we were glad to embark on was jet boating through the mangroves of Cancun. After about an hour of driving our speedy vessel through the glass-like water, we stopped to snorkel at a coral reef. It was so gorgeous! The fish were the most brilliant of colors, and the coral and underwater plants were all unique and impressive. We were literally only inches from an abundance of underwater creatures that didn’t even seem to notice us.

As it was only our first complete day, when we returned from our boating, we took the time to explore the resort. We couldn’t help but snap pictures of the peacocks that roam freely on the grounds. The feathers were absolutely gorgeous! Continuing our expedition, we made our way to the beaches located only a very short distance from our hotel room.

While walking down to the seaside, we were surprised (and yes, I was a bit frightened) to see animals come running at me as we walked through a path. After a few frightened shrieks and some darting down the bridge, I discovered that my new furry friends were coatis – a member of the raccoon family, but with long noses like an anteater. These little guys are quite daring!

Although they aren’t too big, a coati appears huge when it stands on its hind legs begging for food (which they did every time they saw a person). Eventually I got used to their eating habits, and I was pretty close to calm as they walked toward me on two legs with mouths open and outstretched paws…which had claws on them, despite the fact that they are extremely docile. These animals are even daring enough to wrap their arms around your legs as you feed them.

The next day it was off to do some historical sight-seeing (I am a self-proclaimed history nerd!) at the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum. About an hour-and-half bus ride south from our resort, through jungles that we were informed were filled with creatures such as jaguars, toucans, and tarantulas, we arrived at our destination. This city was home to the great Mayan civilization and the remnants still stand tall and proud.

What makes Tulum so magnificent is the breathtaking view that it provides. Once a major trading post in the Gulf of Mexico, the city is positioned on a hill overlooking the warm crystal clear ocean water. It is definitely apparent why this location was so special to the Mayans.

Despite the memorable activities of tanning in the sun, frolicking in the incredibly warm ocean water, and the other excursions we partook in, swimming with the dolphins was definitely the most memorable experience. For an hour we were in the water with this spectacular alpha male dolphin (yeah, he was rather large). We purposely selected a program that only offers small groups, so there were only five of us in the water at the same time, allowing for plenty of one-on-one time.

The highlight of my time spent with the dolphin (and the absolute scariest also) was getting “pushed.” Laying face down in the water with my arms outstretched in front of me, the dolphin swam up behind me, putting his nose under my feet, and pushed me about 50 yards through the water (think the “I’m the king of the world” Titanic scene).

 We also got to pet, dance, sing, feed, and partake other activities, with the playful mammal before we had to say good-bye. Swimming with dolphins is a pricey 60 minutes, but I would highly recommend it to anyone who is remotely interested. It is undoubtedly one of those things that you will remember for the rest of your life.

 So overall, my trip to Riviera Maya was fabulous! There’s nothing better than a vacation in a warm, tropical setting that provides numerous activities and exquisitely attractive sights. If any of you get the chance to visit this remarkable area of the world, take it!

~ Leeann

Every day, I connect to Fashion Frenzy – a fashion-driven blog that profiles our favorite stylish celebrities, the latest industry juice (such as the recent “fat” comment Janice Dickinson made regarding Tyra Banks…can you believe that? Was she really joking?), and magazine cover models to discuss.

So of course I contacted Nikki Maria, my now new friend and founder of Fashion Frenzy. She, in turn, is also one of Beauty Chat’s most loyal readers. Nikki Maria is totally in tune with the concept of loving your image by feeling good, and looking good. And of course, we are totally in tune with what she has to say!

Elana: So tell me how you started writing blogs for Honey Magazine…

Nikki: As a freelance writer, marketing yourself is a must. So one day I decided to submit one of my articles to various publications; Honey was one of the magazines I submitted to. I wasn’t expecting to get a response from anyone, but [I was] hoping to create a buzz that would circulate my name throughout the magazine industry. The same day I submitted the article to Honey, someone contacted me with an even better opportunity … I was asked to be the blogger for my hometown Boston, Massachusetts. So exciting! Honey magazine stands for everything that I believe in – sisterhood, culture, fashion, beauty, and success. It’s a great feeling to have been offered such a wonderful opportunity, and the exposure has been fantastic.
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E: As a writer and editor myself, it can get challenging to equally balance all of my projects!  So how do you allocate your time for each of your editorial responsibilities?

N: Juggling writing and editorial projects can be challenging, especially for freelancers with a day time job (ME!). Honestly, I can’t live without the “task” feature in Microsoft Outlook. Without receiving the alarming alerts that a project is coming due, I’m nothing! But overall, I would have to say that I’m super organized about making sure that I set aside enough time to work on a project. However, I do find myself working on stuff at the last minute. You know … life simply gets in the way. But I love what I do, so locking up in the bedroom with my laptop to get work completed for my clients (on time), is not asking for much. Pressure is a good challenge sometimes—and I stress the sometimes!   

E: Speaking of projects, tell me about Fashion Frenzy, your newest blogging venture?

N: I’m so glad that you asked. Fashion Frenzy is going really well. Coming up with fashion-related content for the site is so much fun. In a nutshell, the mission of Fashion Frenzy is to keep a close eye on haute trends, fabulous wear, designer labels, and inspirational style. Additionally, Fashion Frenzy is giving its readers the resources to determine and embrace [their] own personal style. I wanted to create a space to give information that everyone can benefit from—not just the size 0s to 2s, but the size 10s and up as well. Fashion Frenzy has a solid mission to inspire and embrace.

E: Thus far, what would you say about the success of Fashion Frenzy?

N: The response has been great. The readership is increasing everyday. The last time I checked the stats, I saw over 50 visitors to the site in just one day! As you can imagine, I’m totally happy about this because the site only launched about a month ago. But I’m not the only creative mind behind Fashion Frenzy – the readers e-mail me great ideas and leads for new blogs all the time. I also have a few teenagers that I recently brought on board to keep my content ideas fresh and fabulous for the younger population. 

E: If you could snap your fingers and make it happen, which celebrity would you love to spend all day shopping with?

N: Gosh, that’s a tough one because I would love to shop with so many people. But if I had to choose, it would be Tyra Banks. I just love her waste-cinching techniques. Tyra’s overall look is so sophisticated and exudes confidence. But … if I could snap my fingers a second time, me and Reese Witherspoon would get our fashion frenzy on. Reese’s curvy dresses, solid colors, and fabulous handbags always have her looking absolutely stunning.

E: If you didn’t write and love what you do, what other type of career would you consider?

N: What a fun question, Elana! Let’s see … I think I’d be one of those detectives on CSI. The whole crime lab thing fascinates me. *Laughing*

E: In closing, what would you like to share with Beauty Chat readers and your Fashion Frenzy fans?

N: I absolutely heart Beauty Chat, the level of professionalism and positive approach is refreshing. Lastly, I have to thank all of my readers for the amazing support with Fashion Frenzy—you rock! Keep sending your ideas, feedback, and bundles of love.

 ~ Elana

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Nikki

If you’re a natural mop top like me, then I am confident that you are more than familiar with the words unruly and unmanageable. Although I grew up happily with grandma’s self-proclaimed “banana curls ‘do,” this hairdo does not seem to work well in today’s era of sleek and sophisticated (*tear*).

But, don’t fret my curly-headed gals. Whoever said curls can’t be sleek and sophisticated, not to mention absolutely fabulous (ahem, Ms. Paulina Rubio above), is quite mistaken, especially if Cibu International has anything to say about it.

Cibu is a performance haircare line that takes natural ingredients of the Far East to a new level in these earthy-packaged products that have a hint of Louis Vuitton-esque style and are labeled with clever Asian-infused puns. Jennifer Mapp (Cibu Brand Manager) comments, “It is exclusive to the salon environment and provides you with the tools to become an artist behind your own bathroom door.” 

Although a haircare system that is “intentionally broad,” Cibu offers several specially-formulated products that inspire us curly-hued folks to ditch the faux straight for once and opt for the natural look. Coming from someone whose hair is coarse, curly, and thick (three combined factors that often result in mass destruction) in its natural state, I was a bit skeptical to believe that any product could tame the mane. Cibu definitely called my bluff! Here’s what I’ve been using and totally recommend:

Geishalicious ® Color Protecting Shampoo

With extracts of Lotus, Water Lily, and Bamboo, this product thoroughly cleanses the scalp and strengthens your curls. Also, its natural aroma makes you feel like a true earth child in the shower.

Hi-Ya! ® Reconstructive Conditioner

Since curly hair lacks moisture, this conditioner fights dryness with its Sesame and Silk ingredients.

Miso Knotty ® Leave-in Detangler

Infused with Silk and Soy proteins, this detangler is by far my favorite Cibu product! After getting out of the shower, I spritz this baby on my hair and let nature take its course. It eliminates the frizz and defines your curls.

Wok This Way ® Sculpting Sauce

This gel tames your ringlets by not only keeping them in place throughout a long day, but also by protecting them from UV rays with its Rhatany ingredient.

Pho Finish Workable Finishing Spray

This light-weight kind of hairspray is the perfect stocking stuffer for any beauty-conscious girl. The Bamboo infusion adds strength to your hair, while the Lotus Flower revitalizes. Note the Louis-like print, too cute.

So, C for yourself just how Cibu can revamp your dull curls by restoring their life and shine. After all, what more can you ask for from a mid-tier priced and A-list product?

~Mellori V. 

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Jennifer Mapp

I often reminisce about the glory days of magazines like Sassy and Jane. And while I’m a little older than that demographic now, I still like the idea of a niche magazine founded by a female entrepreneur who has fought to put her message on the market – something that reads in the same friendly, unpretentious tone.  Hence, my search led me to Eliza, a quarterly publication that promotes maintaining a balance of sexiness and modesty in fashion.  As a mommy of two girls, the premise is right up my alley.

Ironically, when I spoke with Eliza founder/editor-in-chief Summer Bellessa, I learned that she was inspired to launch her own magazine by her friends who have young children.  They noticed that their little ones were always attracted to the bright pictures in Mom’s fashion magazines – but they were the wrong kinds of pictures.  “They had to throw away the magazines they loved because of nudity and explicit content,” she says.  This led Summer (who’s also a model), along with girlfriends Kelly McCann and Michelle Budge to “start a magazine with high fashion, great photography, and interesting, positive articles.”
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So, is it mission accomplished?  To start, the amazing photo spreads showcase perfect marriages of chic yet demure fashion – proof that there is something to be said for keeping it classy and covered.  Also, regular installments such as “Smart Art” and “Saving the World One Issue at a Time” are perfect for the Thinking Woman who would rather not leave a cover that screams “50 Ways to Drive Him Wild!” out on the coffee table.  The unexpected treat, however, was finding that many of the clothes featured (I promise, you never knew modesty could look this hot) are reasonably priced.  Case in point: I actually OWN the top that’s on the Fall cover!  Can you say that about your favorite mag?

Don’t let the mom factor freak you out – Eliza is for modest women at all stages.  In fact, Summer and co. were recently asked to participate in L.A. Fashion Week!  Eliza is available at some newsstands and high-end boutiques in select regions, but your best bet in getting a hold of your own copy is by subscription.

~ Brook

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Summer!

We, your Beauty Chat fashionista friends, couldn’t have enjoyed our photo shoot more! Each of us has our own unique style and passions, so it only made sense to show you how the Bejeweled sparkly tank (with gold Swarovski crystals!) stole our hearts.  Designer Susan Fix seriously knows how to create a fitted, ribbed tank that can be worn on numerous occasions, for many reasons, and on many distinct personalities.

And yup, with the help of our NYX Black Label Compact, we felt simply lovely! We each had our corresponding shades to match our varied skin tones — pressed powder foundation is fabulous.

Executive Chic

 “Running the days work for an uber- busy Internet  Marketing company, the stress can really get to me, knowing that my outfit screams that I am fun and exciting helps get me through those tough meetings and client calls.  I am Executive Chic, and I let my clients and staff know it!”~ Denice

Domestic Chic

 “When I get home, the first order of business is to change into something comfy (almost always, that means my pink polka-dot pj bottoms).  Being naturally cold-blooded, I usually throw on a sweat jacket overhead.  It’s the perfect attire for putting together a dinner from scratch – which I do almost every night!  I like the Bejeweled tank because it even pairs well with flannel pj’s, adding some much-needed spice to my nighttime ensemble.  It reduces that ‘haggard mom’ look that I so easily fall into.” ~ Brook

Rocker Chic

I love going to see bands live, amongst a  crowd rocking out to the same music. What’s great about this Bejeweled tank is that I can throw it on (it looks great with some Dickies and Old Sckool Vans) and head out to my favorite venue. Not only does it feel comfortable, but it also looks awesome–it’s definitely “rocker chic! ~Leeann

Editor Chic

 “The day is always long and getting through all of the (wonderful) work, written by PlasticSurgery.com staff writers and Beauty Chat contributors can be demanding on an editor! However, when color is chosen correctly, and thy shoes are fabulous, well, a Bejeweled tank with Gold Swarovski crystals work into my outfit quite nicely. I am ‘Editor Chic’ because it’s the only way to be.” ~ Elana

Mommy Chic

“Being nine months pregnant, cute clothes that show my style are hard to find. The Bejeweled tank gives me the bit of sassiness I like to see in an outfit while still being comfortable and stylish.” ~ Jacquie

LA Chic

 “A 20-something recent college grad who absolutely adores clothes and shoes that bring out the inner diavolina. Although a strong-minded gal stubbornly unwilling to compromise her pursuit of education, Mellori V. pleads the fifth when it comes to a good night out on the town adorned with retro or haute couture and lemon drop martinis. However, she is more than willing to settle for good food and better sleep.” ~ Mellori

Product Photo Credit: Thank you Elizabeth! 

 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

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

As Beauty Chat’s resident Crazy Fan of MTV’s The Hills, I was so excited to learn that former cast member Elodie Otto (you may remember this incident), was set to launch her own bath and body line, Jolie en Rose par Elodie.  Since I consider myself an unofficial member of the “Team Elodie” band of followers, I was dying to talk with her about this new venture.�
With the launch her Web site and an OK! Magazine feature both debuting this week, what better time to sit down for a chat with Elodie to talk personal history, fabulously French fragrances, and of course, a little Hills lowdown?  Check out a snippet of my interview with Elodie from The Hills:

Q: What was your inspiration for Jolie en Rose?

A: My family was really the inspiration…we’re from the South of France, where I went to Pre-K and kindergarten; my grandmother actually still lives there. I spent every summer there, and I was just there this past summer.  The name, Jolie en Rose, is French for “pretty in pink.”  Pink is my absolute favorite color!  The fragrances are yummy, yummy, inspired by French foods and other delicious, amazing scents.

Q: Can you describe one or two of the selections?

A: Well, we have Barbe a Papa, a cotton candy scent.  If you literally translate the name, it means “Grandpa’s beard.”  It’s a fluffy, pink cloud of sugar and fun!  We also have Pomme d’amour, a caramel apple fragrance.  Pomme d’ amour means “apple of love.”  Right now, there are six fragrances.  There are so many things in France that I love – pies, fruits, chocolatines – so I definitely want to add more.

Q: Specifically, what types of products make up the line?
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A: Each scent has its own body lotion, shower gel, and bubble bath.  And they’re all amazing! 

Q: How do we get them?

A: For right now, go to www.jolieenrose.com to place your order. In the future, I’m definitely looking to expand into retail locations. I’ll keep you posted!

Q: To coin a Heidi catchphrase, is this venture “just business, not personal?”

A: Well, business is business – I put my heart and soul into (my job at Bolthouse Productions) and I learned so much there, but now I’m using all my resources and knowledge for my own business, and it’s a new, wonderful thing to have in my life!

~ Brook

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Elodie!

Ever since I heard about the “gentle, be good to yourself” approach of Sircuit Skin Cosmeceuticals, several of their products have been on my wish list. The 100% natural formulas and chirally correct compounds used in this cosmeceutical brand are quickly becoming known as “The Next Big Thing” in skin care. Finally, I was able to get my hands on a couple of their selections! As someone who absolutely loves seasonal fragrances, I had to go with these pumpkin-and-chocolate-inspired varieties, and just in time for Halloween:

Mocha Loca – Who doesn’t love a nourishing anti-oxidant peel? And who doesn’t love chocolate? The Mocha Loca peel is exactly what I need right now, as those creases are creeping up on me. Sircuit Skin calls this product “the ultimate age management solution.”  And, after just a few uses, my skin does feel firmer. But the best part? Feel the consistency (like chocolate pudding!), take in the potent scent of real cocoa, organic coffee, and hazelnut oil, and see if you’re not tempted to – well, you know! 

Youth Accelorator Pumpkin Pore Refining Mask –  This is a decongesting mask that soothes and detoxifies. If your resistance to pumpkin pie is futile, you’ll be addicted; it’s enriched with Vitamin A from real pumpkin extract, pumpkin enzymes, and even pumpkin wine – open the jar, and you immediately catch the aroma! After leaving it on for 15 minutes, the mask dries smooth and rubbery (a nice change from the itchy-crackly texture of some masks), and it definitely refreshes and invigorates. 

Sircuit Skin has products for all skin types, which are free of artificial colors and fragrances – everything is pure and natural, so if you’re allergic to any of these key ingredients, hands off! There’s plenty to choose from – just check out the full Sircuit Skin product line. I’m going back for more.

Stay tuned to see what I try next!

~ Brook

Product Photo Credits: Courtesy of Pierce Mattie PR

The ambiance at the W Hotel in Westwood (Los Angeles) was classy and cool amidst the green and blue, glowing outdoor lights, and a sparkling pool surrounded by fire pits.

The press party for the “Project: Sweat Free” health education campaign was spectacular — picturesque to say the least.  

Stepping into a scene that looked like something straight out of The Hills, my editor Elana (who is also a columnist for Agenda Magazine) and I showed up to learn why Kara Saun (Hello? Finalist from Season 1 of Project Runway!) is helping to raise awareness about excessive underarm sweating and its new age solution: Botox ® injections.

Taking a seat in a private cabana adorned with a stunning mirror, as well as a flat-screen TV, we were able to speak with Kara and Dr. Mavis Billips about the effectiveness Botox ® has on underarm sweating. The two seem like such an unlikely business couple – a fashion designer and a dermatologist? Well sure! Many of Kara’s models have dealt with excessive sweating during the hustle and bustle of a runway show. Her observance of the models’ embarrassment and frustration, as well as their fear for such fabrics as — eek, silk! — prompted Kara to get on board with “Project: Sweat Free.”

  “Sweat stains are not a fashion accessory,” Kara said empathetically.

As Dr. Billips explained, many people suffer from profuse sweating, or what is technically known as hyperhydrosis, and don’t know that they can obtain temporary relief. By receiving Botox injections in their effected areas, such as the underarms, their dreaded perspiration can be halted for approximately 6 months! While this procedure is catching on (it was recently featured on Dr. 90210), it is still not as publicized as most medical professionals would like. So the goal of Kara, Dr. Billips, and “Project: Sweat Free” is to educate everyone on the wonderful results that can be provided by Botox treatments.

After the doctor/designer interview, we sat sipping Cointreau martinis and taking in our surroundings. A great mix of physicians and trendy attendees mingled around the open bars and large, lounge couches for a worthy cause. Of course, with LA fashion week coming up, the attire was fabulous! And might I say? Knee-high boots are in once again this season and were definitely a staple of the night. Let’s thank the fashion gods for that!

~ Leeann
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Photo Credits: Elana’s camera and my extraordinary photography skills