Events – Sometimes Yaya

You Can Find Me At The…

Spring showers and May flowers also bring with them the warm comfort of leaving your house more frequently than you did the last couple of months. So it’s no surprise that events are starting to pop up everywhere. Today and tomorrow, StyleFixx will be hosting an event in Manhattan where attendees can shop, drink, and be merry. I’m using the event as a way to meet up with a college friend I haven’t seen in years (though we live in the same city!), and wanted to give everyone a heads up so that maybe we can meet there too.

To check out a list of the vendors present or past shows click here. Not in NY? They have shows touring the states in locations like Boston, Washington DC, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Will I see you there?

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One of a Kind Show

This weekend and last weekend, New York is home to the One of a Kind Show. A venue for creative minds and artists to come together and display their creations to collector’s and unique individuals alike. Last weekend, scheduling and mush for brains got in my way of reporting about the event much. I mixed up the times, had only fifteen minutes (out of four days – don’t ask me how I do it) to check out as much as possible, and no camera to do it with (although I brought the darn charger!). I vowed to come back better prepared this time around, with enough time for the readers to check it out themselves.Festive ornaments, bookmarks, paperweights, or just something pretty was available from Vilmain.The most pleasing part of the event was the unity of all the presenters aesthetically. Regardless of what kind of craft was being showcased, everyone remained within white walls and hallways. It offered a very clean passageway from one precious item to the other, without wasting time or money on curtains, posters, etc. This also helped for the items to stand out and catch your attention (and to not get lost).Jewelry and sculpture (though they can sometimes be synonymous) were the two prevalent types of products at the show, the first being what caught my eye the most. These pure stone rings by Anna Ruth Henriques were breathtaking. Not only are they skillfully made, but these are pure rock (minus the itty bitty spider). Different ones are made from different stones and retail for just a wee bit under a thousand (with a much cheaper price for show-goers of course).Does the quote call for agreement or disagreement? The resting area featured couches and chalkboard walls, where vendors and visitors alike seemed to embrace their inner children (or artists).I was tempted to take an easel or a print home, but I had to remind myself that until my living area is free of clutter, I have to refrain from big purchases – hopefully I’ll get it together by next year.There is a table for gift wrapping, being that the holidays are around the corner and there are so many innovative holiday gift items on sale. Check out the rest of the artists on the floor plan here.

There is a section to the show featuring all the sponsors of the event, including Susan G. Komen, ReadyMade Magazine, Etsy and others.
You can choose to purchase a card, or make a card, where all proceeds of the sale will go to benefit breast cancer research.ReadyMade offers creative tips on how to decorate your house and be green at the same time. They have three tree decorations that anyone can make (and I will attempt and place on YouTube shortly).Another sponsor was Sierra Mist. A favorite of mine because they quenched my thirst (and Rogue confections for keeping my belly full of chocolate).Another favorite was Pébéo. They had their porcelain paints available for people to create ornaments.Everyone picked a heart and went to work, using brights and glitters to make their own unique ornament. Some designs were way fancier than mine, but I got a little sentimental and did a dedication to the Mister. The paint can be washed off if any errors are made, and when you feel ready, you have to first let the paint dry for a day or so and then bake it to secure the color. Voila! The paint will now be permanent.Once dry, you can hang up your ornament to dry and come back to pick up, or wait.
These ornaments hanging to dry were my favorite. Made me think Betsey Johnson was in the building!

Now it’s your turn! Are you on the East coast? Can you make it to this show this Saturday or Sunday? (11/20-21)? If so, the first five to leave their e-mail address in the comment will get a free ticket to the show!

If not, do not fret, the show will make its rounds in Toronto, Vancouver, and Chicago as well. Check out the site for details.

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You’re Invited!

Tomorrow, I will be spending my money and getting a slight buzz on as I meet new brands – such a difficult task! Purchase tickets here or read about other dates across the country.

Will you be joining me?

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MOJ at IMATS Toronto!

I’ll save all the ranting for later, but suffice it to say, you knew that I was heading to IMATS if you follow me on Twitter. I had a grand master plan of taking a ten hour bus ride across the border to check out the show that never graced the east coast.

There is a New York IMATS for the upcoming year in the works, but I felt like I was really missing out on an experience, so I had nothing else left to do but embark on my journey.
Is there any product you wanted to see? Have you been to the event? Any advice?

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Mizani Event Coverage

I have been battling with my phone for weeks. Every time I forget my camera, I rely on the simple Berry to take as close photos as possible. Nothing beats the clarity that a camera can offer, and I do admit appreciating my deceased iPhone camera to the one on my Blackberry, but you work with what you have, right? It was funny that as I came to terms of never being able to load the photos from my phone onto my computer (it wouldn’t appear as plugged in), lo and behold! It cooperates!

As mentioned in the review, Mizani debuted their Supreme hair oil recently, and had an event where they showcased styles and the product itself. I was hoping I’d be able to show you the images earlier, but this will do.

The whole night I was fawning over how great the event space was decorated. It was very natural and earthy, but uber stylish at the same time. They had elements of the oil’s ingredients all around (avocado oil, coconut oil, etc.).

Most of the Mizani team and host Beth (second from right, top row).

They had the cutest snacks (have you ever thought of putting cheese on a stick pops out as hor’dourves?) including white chocolate lollipops, sushi bites on trays in between flowers, apple and apricot tarts atop toasters (yes I said toasters), and more. The best part were the drinks. A mix of vodka, mango juice, and cranberry liquor (as told to me by a server – you know I hounded them for the mix!) with a dried apricot instead of a lemon on the rim.

The brand presented four models with a variety of hair types (do you know what yours is?) from 1/2 to 7/8. I wasn’t able to get a good photo of the last girl, so you’ll have to forgive me.

The stylists followed up with a five minute challenge to transform styled hair into a different ‘do with only the oil and as quick as possible.

The next presentation involved using the oil as a sealant and shine tool for a blowout. The model had the front part of her hair unfinished and the stylist completed the blowout with ease (and in under ten minutes – the whole head would probably be refreshingly quick as well).

Two of the stylists with their models.

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Mizani Supreme Oil

I recently had the pleasure of attending a product launch for a brand already near and dear to my heart; Mizani. From previous posts regarding hair and recreating styles (check some out here), I have always mentioned the necessity of using some hair oil, whether it’s to maintain the softness of your hair several days after washing and styling, renewing your do, or just to add some sheen for that “I was in a commercial” overall style.

The event was very last minute on my schedule, so of course I was caught unawares without my camera. I tried to make my Blackberry do it’s best, but at the moment it’s doing it’s worst at uploading the images when I need them (so stay tuned!). The launch was for Mizani Supreme Oil.

Some info about the product:
Supreme Oil is a 99% naturally-derived formula with 8 natural oils (sesame, jojoba, almond, avocado, apricot, olive fruit, sunflower and argan oils) that is silicone, mineral oil and paraben-free. Designed for any hair type, this ultra-light treatment penetrates and absorbs to treat and smooth the hair, so it is not greasy unlike silicones and mineral oil that only lay on the hair’s surface. Experience a truly exquisite treatment with an ultra-luxe velvety touch. (source)

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More Clothing…

The benefits as listed on the site:
1. Delivers intense moisturizing & exceptional softness.
2. Imparts incredible shine.
3. Nourishes hair and skin.
4. Leaves hair and skin soft and silky.
5. Helps enhance skin’s overall texture & appearance.
6. Fortifies and strengthens hair to help prevent breakage.
7. Improves hair’s elasticity and manageability.
8. Locks out humidity for continuous frizz control.
9. Non-greasy, fast-absorbing.
10. Can be layered over or under other hair or body products.

I haven’t subjected the oil to a rigorous test yet, but from using it at the event I can vouch for many of the claims. The oil is a smoothing, frizz erasing (depending on what state it catches your hair in – my hair desperately needed a wash, so it just softened the disaster area) hair sheen, which also doubles as an all over scent and body oil. Right after I put the oil on my hair, another attendee inquired as to what my perfume was.

Because the oil contains zero silicone, parabens, or waxes, it is safe to use on the body as well as the hair. It’s actually the smartest to do, because all hair products touch our scalp (and thereby our skin) in any case. The oil is not greasy and leaves your digits free to type away on Twitter or shake hands with new contacts within minutes. This was the most (pleasantly) surprising feature for me, because that’s one of the necessary evils I agree to when I use hair oil (almost every day). I usually have a box of tissues handy to wipe the excess grease away, or head to the bathroom to wash my hands.

The company already covers much of haircare in terms of Scalp Oil, Conditioner Treatment, and basics like the Shampoo and Conditioner, but this product serves as a multi purpose product for ease of use. It works with every hair and body treatment (blowout, smooth, renew, natural extensions, braid refresh, scalp treatment, body, etc.) and is travel friendly.

I’ll take it for a spin for a week and let you know how it works out. In the meantime, you should still try it out and consider getting one.

What is your favorite hair product?

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Swatch Throws a Fab Party

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the Swatch party to promote their New Gent collection. The watches were released in a variety of bright colors, overall a larger silhouette of the popular Gent model. The event had a great DJ and an electric violin player who could rock your socks playing along to Kid Cudi and Mr. West.

Fabolous and Chris Brown came to support the brand and were rocking the latest New Gents. Fab had a black pair, and I didn’t get a chance to check what color Chris Brown was sporting as I was busy checking out his sneakers and all his tattoos (did I never notice that he had so many on both his arms?).

Yours truly with Fabo. I caught some sniffles and germs so I had a scarf and bag full of Kleenex to keep my sneezes contained.

Can you spy the all black New Gent on his wrist?

Almost all the colors look like jewel tones, so you know I was in love at first sight. The watch band is a smooth rubber and the watch face looks a bit like brushed metal under a plastic top. The face looks like it’s all about business and the band is into play. I can see this working with a blazer and a casual top or just a tee and jeans.

The DJ and the violin power. These girls rocked it all night.

Chris Brown got up in his booth to jam to a super charged performance of the violin. You can see the contrast of outfits between him and Fabolous, and notice that the New Gent works effortlessly with both.

What kind of watch do you sport?

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Where Will You be September 10, 2010?

Fashion’s Night Out in 2009 was a blast. As I ran from one event to the other (see me scurrying around here), the party mood was not lost on any store. Each store had shoppers fancier and happier than the last, everyone enjoying life in the name of fashion, so who wouldn’t want an encore?

Fashion’s Night Out 2010 PSA from Fashion’s Night Out on Vimeo.

Visit the website to make your plans for FNO. This year, after the success of yesteryear, many more stores are jumping on the wagon, and in plenty more locations. The websites says “from Brooklyn to Brazil to Boston” – loving that my ‘hood is named first!

When you visit the site (www.fashionsnightout.com), you’ll be able to see events based on categories, from freebies to discounts, and more. Another plus? You can set up your itinerary and see it mapped out.

I’m hoping my night will be a bit less hectic than last year, but that’s becoming more and more impossible as I hear about new events.

Have any events you want covered? Which ones are you going to in your hometown?

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March Madness

March started off with a bang for beauty lovers folks. Today I walked my footsies up and down the aisles of the International Beauty Show. Spring is in the air, and it smells a lot like lotions, polishes, lip glosses, and more!

The Beauty Show is located at the Jacob Javits Center (today, tomorrow, and Tuesday) and if you have ever been to a trade show there, you will know the area is no walking joke. I have to admit I am pretty pooped for a post and so I’m sharing some photos from the tradeshow floor. The show is only open to the trade, but I know a lot of y’all do hair, makeup, and/or nails – check it out if you can! I found some new brands (and spent an equal amount of coins) and will be reporting about it soon. I also got up close and personal with Minx and Calgel for nails. Some new nail colors from Dashing Diva, OPI, Essie, and more (can’t share all my secrets!).

A new nail polish brand? It is to me! Stay tuned for more info.

NYX galore! Lordy lordy I wanted to get one of each!

Ahh! Even more NYX!

Body “shaping” machines that looked like they were from back in the day… Verdict is still out for this baby.

Celebrity stylist Nick Arrojo styling hair on the fly.

This March also brings Shecky’s Girl’s Night Out (in two days!) and gets the ball rolling for plenty of beauty shows (some of the hair shows already passed from the sunnier states, and the Makeup Show LA already passed as well!).

Any events catch your eye?

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Tardy to the Party

Tardy is the kindest word that I can attach to my timing in regards to Mercedes Benz New York Fashion Week. Here’s the catch up (and if the following schedule of posts is too many too often for y’all, let me know!).

I got the ball rolling during the actual Fashion Week by doing a guest post for Miss Brittany over at Clumps of Mascara about the Vessel by Lois runway presentation, and trust me when I say that I could’ve went to just that first show and would have heard all the buzzwords and trends right away.

Image Credit: Style.com

With scheduling and location conflicts for many shows, you try to make one person act like as many clones at one time as possible. Want to know a true story? There were two shows going on within an hour of each other and next door to each other. I went to the first show to cover the backstage prepwork, snuck out through the side staircase (no one could leave because they were doing a test run of the show), ran around the block (with a camera, notepad, and no jacket), only to go into another show, cover the backstage prepwork there, only to return to the first show to catch the runway, and then back to the second. I probably would’ve attempted a lot more fashion herculean tasks similar to this if they were closer together, but that was not the case.

So of course, it is with great sadness that I admit to you that I only got to see Toni’s backstage prepwork and not the runway show. Too bad too, because the dresses were phenomenal. The collection was a bit broken in half with soft, sheer fabric in shades of gray, and some dark pieces, with black and gold. Check out all the runway photos from the show here.

For this show, MAC provided the cosmetic creations, Zoya for nails, and hair was styled by the peeps from Cutler Hair Salons.

The look? A feminine, ethereal, “all about gold” theme. Once you look at the line, you’ll notice that the makeup matches the collection well.

Head makeup artist for the show, Dhai Naidu (pictured above) was swearing up and down the prep area that the item to buy from the fall brand collection is called ‘Hang Loose.’ The artists used Studio Moisture Tint foundation to cover up blemishes, but still keep the girls looking real; showing their real skin, freckles and all.

The polish colors were berry much in tune with autumnal shades, breaking out the berries (did ya catch the berry before?), and of course some glitterin’ gold. The colors used were Sloane, Nova, Casey, and Richelle. Sunshine, the head nail artist for the team had some test swatches with various combinations of colors ready before each girl got set up with her color. Some gals rocked a single blinged out finger with berry on the rest. Nothing new for us beauty junkies, no? But I did love the pink glitter and the creamy gold. Such a switch for the colors, right?!

The hair was sleek and neat, usually arranged in buns with gold threads, sequins, and applique dipping in and out of strands. The hair team used Cutler Volumizer Spray, along with Redken Workforce ’09. I was most impressed with the closeups of the hair (tell me you’re not!).

My favorite images captured on my camera for the day were the box of hair sequins above, and this one here:

I’m sure anyone who had one person handling hair, nails, and makeup each, could get ready just as quickly as these gals! (And don’t we all wish for a round the clock entourage that would help?)