Chic Galleria

Britney Spears Launches New Fragrance – Fantasy Twist

Rithanie Gonzales — Thu, 24 May 2012 11:59:17 +0000

BRITNEY SPEARS™ fantasy twist combines two of Britney’s best-selling fragrances worldwide, fantasy BRITNEY SPEARS™ and its unforgettable counterpart, MIDNIGHT fantasy BRITNEY SPEARS™, in one sleek and innovative bottle design.

As the newest addition to the House of Britney Spears, BRITNEY SPEARS™ fantasy twist allows Britney’s fans to choose their scent with a twist of the bottle.

“With BRITNEY SPEARS™ fantasy twist, I wanted to combine two of my favorite fragrances into a sophisticated bottle, giving my fans the power to choose the scent they desire at any given moment,” said Britney.

The Inspiration

By pairing two of Britney’s most beloved scents, BRITNEY SPEARS™ fantasy twist offers the empowered woman two best-selling fragrances in the convenience of a single, unique bottle.

BRITNEY SPEARS™ fantasy twist illuminates the different sides of every woman. She is sophisticated and glamorous, feminine and flirtatious, with a collection of fragrances to match her multi-faceted personality. This savvy woman is taking charge of her own future and craves the ability to easily change her mind at a moment’s notice.

The Fragrances

Fantasy BRITNEY SPEARS™ is a potion of succulent fruits and Britney’s favorite white florals that leaves a light trail of sensuality. The alluring mix of lush red lychee, golden quince and exotic kiwi playfully intertwines with a delectable cupcake accord, jasmine petals and white chocolate orchid. A surprising finish of creamy musk, enchanted orris root and sensual woods will leave you instantly captivating.

MIDNIGHT fantasy BRITNEY SPEARS™ is an intoxicating elixir of exotic fruits, seductive florals, and rich woody musks. Forbidden black cherries, framboise and luscious plum invite you into a mysterious realm of temptation and intrigue, while night blooming orchid and freesia mischievously flirt with enticing velvet iris. Cashmere woods, white patchouli, vanilla and amber leave a warm and sexy trail of intrigue.

The Design

BRITNEY SPEARS™ fantasy twist interlocks two separate but complementary fantasies in one polished design. Playing off the classic orb shape of the fantasy BRITNEY SPEARS™ and MIDINGHT fantasy BRITNEY SPEARS™ bottles, BRITNEY SPEARS™ fantasy twist utilizes patent-pending friction lock technology to create a one-of-a-kind bottle design, and debuts a spherical combination of two individual but connecting bottles.

Incorporating the ever-present Britney flair, the two halves of the unique bottle are shaded in her favorite colors—pink and blue—which are also the colors of fantasy BRITNEY SPEARS™ and MIDINGHT fantasy BRITNEY SPEARS™.

Interview with LA’s Hottest “Life-Stylist” and Fashionista – Nikki Joel

Rithanie Gonzales — Thu, 24 May 2012 11:55:08 +0000

Los Angeles’ #1 “life-stylist,” humorist, life-expert, fashionista, and confidant to the stars, Nikki Joel aka “Miss Lemonaid,” (already seen on DR. DREW, GOOD DAY LA, etc.) whose humorous perspective, versatile advice, and unsurpassed wit are the best reasons to view her must-read blog, LIFESTYLELEMONAID.COM. LIFESTYLELEMONAID.COM covers everything from steamy relationship advice and “sexcapades” to beauty tips, and fashion must-haves. Additionally, it features “Lifestyle Lemon Drops,” – video content showing viewers Miss Lemonaid’s newest and hottest obsessions for the stylish, sexy career woman on-the-go. In fact, the blog is so well-received that she’s currently in talks with production companies to transform the blog into a TV show. She is fabulous, magnetic, inspiring, racy, always honest, and all the rage in Beverly Hills.

What are your tips to effectively organize your closet?

I separate by season and organize everything by color. Skinny jeans go in one pile, color in another, wide leg, and so forth. Shoes, purses, jewelry, and all other accessories are laid out. Then, I put everything that I’m not currently wearing downstairs in my garage. I’ve also worked with ACLOTHESCALL.COM. These celebrity stylists are amazing! They sort through your closet and tweak the clothes that you already own to give you a new, fresh, and updated wardrobe.

What are your favorite summer trends? How would you wear these trends to work, on a date, or with the kids?

I love color! I don’t wait for the trend to be color. Right now, I am big on neon, colored denim, and stripes. I also like to mix patterns and textures. Guys don’t usually notice “the new trends,” so I think dressing in what you’re most comfortable in is always trendy and perfect for work or a date. Also, I always wear chains and Palm Beach 60’s style big necklaces as statement pieces. No matter what the occasion, lots of big and bright costume jewelry is a must. When I’m with the kids, I usually wear jeans with colorful flats or a wedge.

What is the perfect attire for an interview or black tie affair?

You can never go wrong with a great pair of jeans and a cute jacket. Zara has amazing, affordable blazers in a variety of colors. I usually pair that with a J. Crew silk camisole (I have one in every color), and then add jewelry of course. I also change purses a lot. As for a black tie affair, I like to stand out. So I never wear black, always a colored dress.

What is purple shampoo and what are the benefits to blondes using it? Do you have any shampoo suggestions for brunettes?

Purple shampoo is an amazing creation that takes the brass out of blonde hair. However, big warning- if you leave it on for too long you’ll look like a grandma with silver hair. Don’t let it soak while you’re shaving your legs! My favorite shampoo for anyone is Kiehls. It’s cheap, moisturizes, and never makes the hair feel dirty. Also, shampoos with Avocado Oil and Argan Oil are fantastic for any hair type.

What’s your take on rose gold highlights? Can anyone get them? What do you think of the ombre look? Is it still trending for the summer?

Rose gold is fun, not classic (not for “statement look”), but a fun trend (like chalking). I think an ombre looks dirty and unkempt. The trend is on its way out. Roots are the number one thing on my maintenance list.

What are your favorite makeup products and why? What makeup looks are trending for the summer? What is the ultimate summer color palette for eyes?

Where do we even begin? Everything from Senna Concealer, Koh Gen Do’s moisture foundation, and all Hourglass products are great. I wear Laura Mercier’s Oleander cream blush and Almay’s eyeliner in black. Also, never forget color! I recommend a NARS lipstick in hot pink for summery bright colored lips. A sheer pop of color on the cheeks is eye-catching as well. However, leave the bronzer behind when wearing coral or pink blush.

What nail colors do you like best for the summer? What are your favorite nail art designs? Do you have any tutorials and if so could you please share one with our readers?

Glittery hot pink nail polish is my favorite color for summer. I love Gel polish! It lasts so much longer. Whenever I go to the salon, I make sure to wear sunscreen on my hands. Ask for latex gloves with the fingers cut out to protect your hands in the UV dryer. Some places use LED lights to harden the gel nails. Safety is a part of beauty!

Any last tips for our readers?

The Pressed Juicery! They are located in Malibu, Brentwood, and just opened up in West Hollywood. The juice is a 3-day cleanse that actually works. There is a wide selection of flavors to choose from, and the detox is gentle on your system. It helps with weight loss and restores all necessary nutrients to your body. I always feel healthier and more energized after this cleanse. It’s so delicious that you won’t even realize you’re dieting!

Nikki Joel, the former talent agent always felt connected to the glitz and glam of the entertainment industry. Now, as a busy style icon and mother of two, Joel takes her former contacts to the next level where she shares everything she knows about life, style, beauty, and fashion with her exclusive inner circle to the everyday woman. One day, after an especially juicy gossip session with girlfriends, one suggested she share her life on a blog. This was the impetus to LIFESTYLELEMONAID.COM, an outlet to share her glamour daily.

In her rare free time, this UC Berkeley alum and chic LA resident can be found spending time with her family, volunteering with the “1 Voice” foundation helping to eliminate childhood cancer, and staying fit at her local Pilates studio.

Rithanie Gonzales is the Editorial Planning Manager for Chic Galleria. She is a senior at the University of Washington, majoring in English Lit. Internally, writing is something she’s always been passionate about and seeks to work in fashion pr. Other than school and interning, Rithanie has her own blog and you can follow her on twitter @ritgonz

Shop Your Closet: Nautical Nights

Cheyenne Headrick — Thu, 24 May 2012 11:52:31 +0000

Wearing nautical themed clothing can be difficult because it is so easy to go overboard and look like you’re wearing a costume. Everyone should own a couple of nautical themed pieces in their closet because this is a trend that has been popular for decades and doesn’t appear to be leaving anytime soon. I chose this outfit because the dress has a nautical look, but is simple enough to not be too out there. I thought this outfit would be great for any daytime or nighttime parties you might attend during the summer. White is a great color for the summer and I love the detailing on the collar that gives the dress a little bit of the nautical look. I thought that these Rupert Sanderson shoes complemented the dress nicely and I liked that they were black to not give into the “theme” too much since I was going to be adding other items to that outfit that would accomplish this. This was taken care of by adding a red J.Crew hat and a red Marc Jacobs belt. A great purse for this outfit would be this 3.1 Phillip Lim purse because it is a beautiful shade of blue and the outfit didn’t have a lot of blue in it. I think this outfit highlights the best parts of a nautical outfit while managing to make it wearable for any event.

Dress: Boutique by Jaeger

Shoes: Rupert Sanderson (similar)

Bag: 3.1 Phillip Lim

Hat: J.Crew

Belt: Marc by Marc Jacobs

How do you like to incorporate nautical themed clothing into your outfits?

Cheyenne Headrick is an Editorial Intern at Chic Galleria. She is a senior at the University of Washington and is currently working towards getting her English degree. She likes interior design, watching comedies, and reading. You can follow her on twitter at @cnheadrick.

Shop Your Closet: Little Black Dress for Any Big Event

Rithanie Gonzales — Thu, 24 May 2012 11:19:14 +0000

Looking for an outfit idea for a black tie event? Nothing is more classic than going all black with all the right accessories. Shop your closet for a little black dress you haven’t wore out, take out your favorite black heels and find the right black jewelry for the evening. This statement necklace from Karen Lindner Designs will look beautiful on a bare neck and instead of wearing classic diamond earrings why not those black studs in your drawer. Add a pop of color on your lips with MAC Cosmetic’s So Chaud lipstick. The pigment isn’t a red so you will be a subtle goddess for the night. One more thing, by using a clipless curling iron or a wand you can add soft waves to complete a chic look for the night!

Necklace: Karen Lindner Designs

Dress: Herve Leger

Heels: Giuseppe Zanotti

Earrings: Lord and Taylor

Lipstick: MAC Cosmetics

How would you add a pop of color to this look?

Stuffed Eggplant: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

Rithanie Gonzales — Thu, 24 May 2012 11:02:10 +0000

Need I say more?! Oh these are goooood! Just like a little mini quiche tucked into nice little eggplant shells just beggin’ to be eaten! This is a great go-to recipe for a dinner party or when you want to make a few dishes a bit earlier since it’s served at room temp. A hearty fill for the vegetarians out there. A great recipe to turn those that are not big fans of eggplant, the flavor is so subtle & nice.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

4 eggplants

3 Tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for brushing

1 onion, chopped

1 celery stalk, chopped

3 red or green bell peppers, halved, seeded & chopped

4 ripe tomatoes, diced

2 eggs, lightly beaten

3 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

salt & pepper

Method:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Halve the eggplants lengthwise & scoop out the flesh without piercing the ‘shells’. Chop the flesh & save the shells. Heat the oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until soft.

Add the chopped eggplant flesh, celery, bell peppers and tomatoes, season with salt & pepper and cook over low heat for 15 minutes.

Brush an ovenproof dish with olive oil.

Remove the pan from the heat & stir in the eggs. Fill the eggplant shells with the mixture and place in the prepared dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan and bake until golden & bubbling!

Remove from the oven and let cool.

Serve cold/at room temperature.

Jason & Ashley Bartner own & operate La Tavola Marche, an organic farm, inn & cooking school in Le Marche, Italy. Leaving life in New York for the Italian countryside, they’ve never looked back! Jason teaches & serves local seasonal dishes from the region using produce for their organic farm, hand-made pasta, home cured charcuterie & even homemade liquors. www.latavolamarche.com