This may be shocking to some, old news to others…. Let’s talk about washing your hair. “Your hair grows better when it’s dirty.” Not true. As a matter of fact, it’s the exact opposite. Your hair grows quicker and will be healthier when your hair and scalp are clean.Your scalp needs air! Heavy oils and products can clog your hair follicles and cause blockage, causing the hair shaft to suffocate and not grow.

This past week I was talking to one of my clients and she told me that it wasn’t widely known that if your hair doesn’t lather the first time around, it’s dirty. In other words,  a clean white lather equals clean hair. So if you shampoo your hair the first time and you don’t get lather, rinse and wash again. But if you wash your hair often, the exact opposite is true— you may only need to wash your hair once before conditioning. I was shocked to know that kind of information is not common knowledge. But I guess after doing hair for six years, everything seems common knowledge to me.

If your hair tends to be oily, a good first wash shampoo would be a tea tree shampoo to remove excess oils that cause excess dirt. Otherwise, Nioxin shampoo’s and conditioners are great for a healthy clean scalp. The Nixon brand has so many products that promote hair growth coming from the concept of clean scalp and hair. I love the Nixon Scalp Renewal. It’s a microdermabrasion (exfoliation) for the scalp. Think of your scalp as an extension of your face and skin. Just as you would give yourself a facial, you need to give your scalp the same love and attention.

So, if you hear someone telling you that you need to “oil your scalp” with Dax grease or that leaving your hair alone or letting it stay dirty will cause it to grow…tell him or her the truth.  If you follow my advice I guarantee that you’ll be able to see the difference in your hair!

It’s that magical time of year…no, not the Holidays….Sample Sale Season!

Two times a year–a few months after the Fashion Weeks have wrapped, our favorite fashion companies purge their warehouses of samples and overstock for fabulous prices. This time of year is especially exciting because Christmas is right around the corner, and who doesn’t love a killer sale when gift shopping!

Without further ado….Here’s the Scoop:

Who: The Garment Room

What: Unique vintage clothing and accessories for men and women at warehouse sale prices (50-75% off). Party while you shop: music will be playing and cocktails will be served! A portion of the sale proceeds will be donated to Union Docs (uniondocs.org).

When: Friday and Saturday, Nov. 15th-16th– 12pm to 8pm

Where: 322 Union Ave @ the Union Docs Loft/ btw Maujer and Ten Eyck/Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Who: R.J. Graziano

What: Luxurious costume jewelry on sale at wholesale prices or below! Graziano designs are all over the top fashion magazines and you too after you visit the sale. Cash or Credit Cards.

When: Monday thru Wednesday, Nov. 17th-19th– 11am to 5:30pm

Where: 389 5th Ave/3rd floor/btw 36th and 37th St/ 212-685-3737

Who: Anya Hindmarch

What: Discounts from 60% off amazing suede and leather bags–shoes–and luggage, along with Anya’s new apparel line (tunics, jackets, etc). Credit Card and Cash only!

When: Wednesday, Nov. 19th– 9am to 5:30pm

Where: Anya Hindmarch Showroom/ 416 West 13th Street/Suite 317

Who: Delman

What: Some of the best footwear around for less then half the price! Leather boots, snakeskin flats and stand-out heels make this sale a must. I scored a pair of red flats last year for $50 (originally $300)!

When: Wednesday thru Friday, Nov. 19th-21st– 10am to 7pm

Where: Metropolitan Pavilion/123 West 18th Street/ 4th Floor/ 212-399-2323

Who: Tocca

What: Gorgeous dresses, coats and separates for up to 80% off retail. Cocktail dress ($330, NOW $85), Silk blouse ($250, NOW $50). Plus, home and body products! Large candle ($36, NOW $20), Bath&Body gift sets ($48, NOW $20). Cash and Credit Cards accepted.

When: Wednesday thru Friday, Nov. 19th-21st–11am to 7pm

Where: 542 West 22nd Street/ btw 10th and 11th aves

Who: Theory

What: Perfectly tailored suits, sublime blouses, cozy sweaters and fantastic dresses for 60% off and up!

When: Thursday, Nov 20th (10am-7pm), Friday, Nov. 21st (10am-6pm), Sat & Sun, Nov. 22nd-23rd (10am-5pm), Monday, Nov.24th (10am-6pm), Tuesday, Nov. 25th (10am-7pm).

Where: 261 west 36th Street/ 2nd floor/btw 7th and 8th aves

Happy Shopping!

As I mentioned in one of my last post:I live and die for accessories! A super high and strappy sandal causes my heart to skip several beats…a delicate charm necklace makes me swoon…and the perfect bag is enough for me to contemplate blowing my rent money and moving back in with my parents. Believe me, I’ve thought about it. Sad, I know.

With all that said, each week I’ll share with you one of my favorite accessory lines…some of which you have probably never heard of. Being a fashion editor has it’s perks and one of them is being introduced to up-and-coming designers and getting the scoop before the masses. Gotta love….and so will you!

To start, I’d like to introduce you to……. Ginette NY!

I first fell in love with the delicate gold necklaces from this line designed by Frederique Dessemond (originally from France, but now lives in Brooklyn NYC). These days I find myself piling on thin gold strands to make a cascading effect around my neck and the pieces from Ginette are the perfect addition. Frederique doesn’t stop at necklaces, her line extends to earrings, rings and bracelets. She is most renowned for her Victorian inspired monogrammed plate designs. They give an old-world feel with enough glitz to make you fresh and current! Many of the Ginette pieces can easily become items you pass down through the generations.

THE LOWDOWN

Price Range: $100-$600 (yellow, black or rose gold)—Pricey. But, the pieces are well made and beautiful

Where to Buy: Ginette NYC Boutique/172 West 4th Street/212-627-3763, Shopbop.com, and Piximarket.com

You should know…: that Shopbop.com always has great sales on Ginette! And, they just started carrying Ginette Etc, a line of bags from the company. Check here to see!

Tuesday’s historic election of Barack Obama as the nation’s 44th President has been eclipsed, in many circles, by the growing discussion about Michelle Obama’s dress. Really. The dissection of her decision to don the red and black Narciso Rodriguez number started on fashion blogs like style.com and then to newspapers like USA Today. Now the talk has gone international. The UK’s Telegraph has picked up the story today. Overall, the reviews were not good.

And so we have it, Michelle Obama’s first little brouhaha as the soon to be First Lady. To date, many fashionistas have lauded most of her style choices. From the White House Black Market dress she donned for “The View” to the Maria Pinto frocks she wore for the Democratic National Convention and the J Crew ensemble she wore for her appearance on Jay Leno her style report card overall has been almost all As. But now that the stakes are higher, she is going to be The First Lady Of The United States after all, the scrutiny has followed suit. And the results are somewhat comical. The funniest line in The Telegraph article pointed out that Michelle Obama doesn’t employ a personal stylist. Should she? I don’t think so. A personal shopper, perhaps but a personal stylist, no.

I am actually amazed that there has been more press about this dress than there has been about the look she wore to vote—no makeup and a ponytail. I raised one eyebrow at that until I realized that the sister had been working non-stop (and she was probably up all night). Plus, her choice gave us a peek at her humanity and solidifyed that she was the sister next store (at least in our minds).

Personally, I noticed the dress but I wasn’t fixated on it. I was more aware that her accessories were less classic and more funky (and also that the family was tastefully color coordinated without looking to matchy-matchy). And seriously, I was just elated at the historic moment for both this country and our people in particular. But spending most of my career around fashion folks has taught me that the write their version of history based upon what someone wore.

I suspect that since Michelle has made it through this campaign in one piece, she probably has pretty thick skin. I doubt seriously that after all this talk about her dress that she will revert to only safe choices (or call Andre Leon Talley in a panic—which may be risky too). Instead, she will continue to carve out her own style niche. But as she is finding her rhythm there may be some misses in the midsts of all those hits. So what.

Folks can talk about the return of Camelot all they want, but I am sure our future First Lady knows that substance is even more important than style. She’s striving  to be more than just a beautiful sister in a designer dress. Here’s what she told Newsweek about raising her children in The White House and addressing the issues that are important to her. This interview was done before they had a lock on the Presidency, now I am sure we’ll find out even more about what she’s passionate about.

Have you spent hours trying on different outfits preparing to meet her? Have you listened intently, feverishly trying to project your sincere interest and appreciation for her unsolicited advice; as you think to yourself, “this is my wedding and I’m planning it how I want to?” When the phone rings and you see her name come up on the caller ID, do you cringe hoping your husband will pick up the phone? If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, then you have encountered The Other Woman. The Other Woman is your husband’s mother.

In Jane Green’s book The Other Woman, the main character Ellie meets a man with whom she seemingly has a lot in common. They’re both career-minded, independent, and have their own homes. While her family is small, his is a bit larger and tightly knit. As their relationship progresses, he takes Ellie to meet his family. In an instant, Ellie finds Linda, (her boyfriend’s mother) to be confident, self-assured, and loving. She later learns that this is a front and Linda is an insecure, overbearing control freak. What’s worse is she sees her independent, big and strong boyfriend for the mama’s boy that he really is.

Whether you have encountered a mother-in-law who acted one way and then changed it up, or if she was and will always be one of your biggest haters, don’t fret. There is an art to dealing with The Other Woman. First, you should consider a few factors:

• How close do you and your husband live to his mother?
• How often do you visit her and vice versa?
• Is she married or seeing someone?
• Are there grandchildren to consider?
• Finally, what does your husband think? Is he a stand-up, think for himself type of guy or does he require his mother’s constant approval?

Whatever his approach, you must learn and master the skill of MLM, (Mother-in-Law Management). Kill her with kindness, indulge her with mindless attention because your primary goal is to maintain a happy husband. You want to emanate harmony and sweetness. Any conflict should not arise from you. That said, don’t be a doormat. Remain tactful, but firm and you will win.

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GUEST BLOGGER BIO
Married four blissful years, Today’s Wife Michelle Banks kissed a few frogs before finding her prince charming. In this lively blog, she’ll expound on the joys and challenges of marriage, exploring relationships in transition, and managing successful relationships from both the BM (before-marriage) & AM (after-marriage) perspective.

Happy November! Most of you might not know that November is actually National Diabetes Awareness Month.

“Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.” (American Diabetes Association)

I am invested in the research and efforts that go into fighting diabetes because my mother and grandmother both live with the disease…and biologically I’m prone to follow suit. Furthermore, diabetes is affecting our whole community– 3.7 million or 14.7% of all African Americans aged 20 years or older have diabetes (stat from the ADA).

With all that said, there are many ways you can get involved in crusade against Diabetes….

One way that will make you feel good on the inside and look fabulous on the outside comes from one of my favorite beauty lines, 3 Custom Color Specialists!

During the month of November and December, they are donating 20% of the proceeds of the sales of TAI™ Lip Shine ($19.50) to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Funds will be used to support the ADA’s efforts in contributing to diabetes research, information, and advocacy.

The lip shine is divine bronze color and looks great on all skin tones! Order a 3-pack ($58.50) and you’ll get free shipping (just enter TAI at checkout). What a great Holiday gift!

So, please join in on this amazing cause and literally kiss diabetes goodbye!

Products are everywhere! Which ones work best for you? With all those products on the shelves, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and leave the store spending more than you wanted. And you might not be sure that the products you chose are going to work right for you. Experimenting is inevitabe (and necessary) to find the best ones. Well, I’ve tried quite a number of products and wanted to share with you some of my faves for different hair types at a variety of prices.

For Breakage: You need a good reconstructive and protein building shampoo and daily conditioner. Here are a few:

• Tigi Bed Head Dumb Blonde system
• Paul Lebrecque Repair Shampoo and Condiditon
• Kerastase Bain De Force Shampoo, Ciment Anti-usure and Forcintense Treatment Conditioners

Salons offer various proten treamtents that be customized to your specific concern. Some proteins are stronger than others they are NOT all the same.

For Dry Scalp or Psoriasis: Washing your hair weekly is best for you. Try the following products:

• Nizoral Shampoo weekly
• Use Kiehl’s Silk Groom Serum on the scalp
• Nioxin Scalp Renewal Treatment every 4-5 weeks

For Relaxed Hair: Remember it is important to change your shampoo every three months to avoid your hair building up a sort of immunity to the product. A few weekly or daily shampoos include:

• Kiehl’s Olive Fruit Oil Shampoo and Conditioner
• Alterna Hemp Organics Repair Treatment Shampoo and Conditioner
• Nioxin Cleanser and Conditioner #7
• If your hair is very dry, try Mixed Chicks Deep Conditioner

For Color-Treated Hair try:

• Alterna Hemp Organics Color Hold Repair Shampoo and Repair Treatment Conditioner
• Goldwell Kerasilk Treatment Shampoo and Conditioner

For Natural or Curl Hair check out:

• Mixed Chicks Shampoo and Deep Conditioner with the Leave-in
• Kiehl’s Silk Groom for moisture during the day

Good Leave-in Conditioners and Heat Protective Products:

• Bed Head’s Ego Boost
• Lanza Strait-Line Thermal Defense
• Kiehl’s Silk Groom

The Best Finishing Products:

• For Shine: Mixed Chicks Hair Silk is by far the longest lasting shine I’ve ever experienced. It’s flying off my shelf.
• For Hold: Paul LeBrecque’s Straight Finish and Bed Head’s Hard Head
• For Flyaways, Separation or a Sleek Ponytail, Updo or Bun: Bed Head’s Manipulator

Give some of these products a try and let me know how they work out for you.

Once every two to three years or so I get the urge to cut bangs. The problem is that after about a week my forhead starts breaking out and I can’t find a flattering way to brush them to the side. Also, if not done correctly, bangs have the potential to transport me back to my tweenage years, which as a working professional  I don’t really need to revisit.  So, as the urge to cut wells up once again I’m deciding to do a little research before my next salon visit. I need a style that says both autumn and ease. Bang styles can speak volumes about someone’s personality, but at that root of it there are some basic guidelines the must be followed.

Slightly below the brow: particularly for fall, bangs that are slightly longer frame out faces nicely. It also creates a warm and cozy look that is hard to get away with when temps are high.

Full not sparse: gaps and thinness in the frontal fringes are counteractive to the seamless statement that bangs create.

A crisp line: uneven staggered cuts look homemade not salon styled.

Flexible not stiff: bangs that are pasted the forehead are not only a target for excess oils and irritation on the forehead, but they create an unflattering helmet head look.

Rhianna arguably has the best bangs in the game right now and I’m hoping that my impulse cut comes close to the sleek but practical look she’s able to flawlessly maintain.

What do you or don’t you love about bangs?

From Fashion Week to the financial meltdown, this fall has been full of highs and lows. When the economy takes a downturn, style trend seem to reflect that. Everyone is scrambling to stay cute and save their pennies. We are recycling our wardrobes and trying to add a few new things that change our look by accessorizing and adding a piece here and there.

As with fashion, hairstyles are also affected by the economy. Hair stylists and trendseeters are taking their inspiration from different eras including the 60s (Think Ashanti), 70s and 80s. As we continue the season, we will be seeing less of really long hair (think Brandy) and less of shorter hair styles (think Rihanna). And those in the middle (think bobs) should consider growing their hair to a mid-length between the chin and shoulder. The hottest look with be no more than 3-4 inches below the shoulder with a deep side part or one right in the middle with soft layers and a textured waves look that works well on most face shapes. Alesha Renee, Ciara and Beyonce are all wearing this look.

This new hair trends gives you a way to update your wardrobe by dressing up your hair. It also offers versatility since you can the part. It will also allow you to do more glamorous looks of the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

The plummeting stock markets couldn’t hold down the opulent, imaginative and decidedly hopeful designs pouring down the runways overseas. Here, just a taste of what you can expect (dresses, dresses and more dresses!):

LONDON–(left to right)  ISSA gives the girl-on-the-go sophistication without stuffiness. I love the combination of subtle color and radiant shine. From the Nigerian born, London based designer Duro Olowu comes more of what he does best: Exotic patterns. His keen taste of over the top patterns and refined silhouettes, strike balance that is perfect for the lady who likes to stand out in a crowd. Finally, Ossie Clark is a fashion house in transition, trying to revitalize it’s hay-day in the 70’s. This solid collection is making for a promising start. Check out the matching dress and shoes…brilliant!

MILAN– (left to right) You can always rely on Marni to give you fun, quirky and absolutely fabulous prints every season. Consuelo Castiglioni delivered a collection of well constructed separates and dresses that anyone can mix and match throughout their wardrobe. Gotta love versatility! You can’t talk about Milan fashion week without mentioning Dolce and Gabbana. These guys know what ladies really want….the comfort of PJs with the glam of a movie star. Done! This collection is complete with Men’s Pajama inspired style and a whole lot of sexy. Speaking of sexy, just look at that Raf Simons for Jil Sander black fringe dress. Enough said.

PARIS– (left to right) Ahhh, Josephine Baker…one of my style idols! It’s only fitting that she was one of the inspirations behind the all-imporant Louis Vuitton collection. Exotic prints, embellishments galore and tailored separates pulled Marc Jacobs’ (creative director/designer for LV)  vision together. Don’t be surprised if you see every one of Giambattista Valli’s collection on all the Hollywood starlets. Young celebutantes are mad for Valli’s frocks (Rhianna is a huge fan) and his crop of spring designs are the perfect transition from red carpet to after party! Now if you’re the type of gal that has a full social schedule, you’ll want to make sure you have a Lanvin in your closet, because you can’t go wrong with one of Alber Elbaz’s designs. The spring collection for Lanvin uses volume and skilled draping to invoke light and airy pieces that could certainly elevate any occasion.

I absolutely live and die for accessories! Shoes, bags, belts, jewelry and beyond– make my heart sing! They are the perfect investment since you can wear them a lot more than, say, that fuschia dress you adore (”there she goes in that pink dress again”). A great bag or pair of shoes are meant to be worn all the time, so the price to mileage ratio is perfection!

Check out these haute accessories for Spring 09 (I would do very bad things for those Yves Saint Laurent Eiffel Tower inspired booties...I’m just saying)!