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Get Spring & Easter Styles for Less at The Children’s Place

March 27, 2015

If you’re looking for stylish Easter and spring fashions, look no further than The Children’s Place.

This season the store is stocked with plenty of trendy apparel perfect for school, play dates and weekends. I’ve been shopping at the fashionable and affordable store for just about every occasion since my daughter’s birth five years ago. It’s been my go-to for everything from dresses to headbands (she collects them!) and everything in between. So of course when my son was born, I continued to go there for cute and comfy tees, jeans and outfits for him as well.

My daughter, Ava, wearing one of her favorite dresses from The Children’s Place spring offerings.

Right now I’m completely obsessed with the retailer’s cheery animal motif dresses. They’re so adorable for little girls—especially for those with pets. They’re playful and whimsical just as kids’ clothing should be.

With Easter rapidly approaching next Sunday, be sure to drop by your local TCP—I promise you won’t be disappointed!

Check out some of these look-at-me styles:

Photo-Real Skater Dress available here, $17.50

Gingham Bow Tie available here, $4.20

Oxford Shirt available here, $13

Dotted Jeggings available here, $10

Dotted Flared Dress available here, $30

Argyle Sweater available here, $13

Chambray Vest available here, $9.50

Photo-Real Donut Stack Socks available here, $4.20

Where do you stock up on kids’ clothing? Have you bought your kids Easter outfits?

Category: Fashion, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle | 1 Comment

Little League Superstar Mo’ne Davis Launches Sneaker Collection To Help Impoverished Girls

March 26, 2015

If you haven’t heard of Mo’ne Davis, clearly you’ve been living under a rock.

The 13-year-old Little League World Series star has been making headlines since grabbing America’s attention with her ground-breaking stats in the outfield last summer with the Taney Dragons—landing her the cover of Sports Illustrated Kids. The baseball prodigy already has a Spike Lee directed documentary (I Throw Like A Girl) out based on her life, a new book (just released last week) and even has a Disney Channel biopic in the works. Now the Philadelphia native is teaming up with M4D3 (Make A Difference Everyday) to create a fun and colorful limited collection of sneakers specifically designed to benefit impoverished girls.

Mo’ne Davis

M4D3’s social mission is to help raise funds for various charities. With Mo’ne’s sneakers, proceeds will support Plan’s Because I am a Girl initiative to help lift 4 million girls in the developing world out of poverty.

“I never thought at the age of 13 I’d be a role model, but having young girls look up to me is pretty cool. If I can inspire them to reach their goals, that would be even cooler,” says Davis in a release. “Designing shoes with M4D3 is exciting and I wanted them to support Because I am a Girl to help girls and give them a chance at a better future.”

If her accomplishments thus far are any indication of what’s to come, we can bet that this bright and beautiful history-making athlete will continue to knock things out of the park!

Check out a few kicks from her super cute sneaker collection:

Mo'ne David Women's Pink Lace Up Canvas Sneaker

Mo’ne Davis Women’s Pink Lace Up Canvas Sneaker

Mo’ne Davis Women’s White Lace Up Canvas Sneakers

Mo’ne Davis Women’s Blue Lace Up Canvas Sneaker

All of the sneakers from the Mo’ne Davis collection are $75. Click here for more information.

Do you make an effort to support celebrities, athletes and retailers that give back?

Category: Fashion, Style | 2 Comments

Brandy to Make Broadway Debut in Musical ‘Chicago’

March 24, 2015

Brandy, one of our favorite R&B singers is about to take Broadway by storm.

The Grammy-winning singer/actress is set to make her Broadway debut next month in the record-breaking musical, Chicago.

Starting April 28th, Brandy will star in the role of Roxie Hart. The musical, now in its 19th year will feature the singer in a limited 8-week engagement ending June 21st. Produced by Barry and Fran Weissler, Chicago is the winner of six 1997 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Cast Recording.

Brandy most recently co-starred as “Chardonnay” on BET’s “The Game,” but since the show has already shot its final season, it’s great to hear that the multi-talented entertainer will be showcasing her singing and acting chops on The Great White Way.

Brandy has surely come a long way from “wanting to be down.” Can’t wait to see her on Broadway!

For ticket information click here!

Are you looking forward to seeing Brandy in “Chicago?” What’s your favorite musical?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

Jump for Joy: 6 Jumpsuits Perfect for Spring

March 18, 2015

I’ve never worn a jumpsuit (overalls don’t count, right?), but that’s all about to change.

This spring I plan on rocking the popular one-piece style with confidence. Being a busy working mom, I’m all about wearing clothes that are comfortable and fashionable, so I’m not sure what took me so long to jump on this trend. Plus, they can be dressed up or down depending on accessories.

From flirty florals to chic muted palettes, jumpsuits are a great way to showcase your playful or sexy side.

Check out these eye-catching all-in-one looks:

Bar III Strapless Smocked Printed Jumpsuit available here, $33

Tracy Reese Jumpsuit available here, $348

Forever 21 Chevron Print Surplice Jumpsuit available here, $25

Crisscross-Back Jumpsuit available here, $28

Material Girl Printed Skinny Leg Jumpsuit available here, $44

Tracy Reese Plenty Jumpsuit available here, $198

Do you wear jumpsuits?

Category: Fashion | 5 Comments

Product Review: Caress Forever Collection Body Washes

March 16, 2015

When it comes to cleansing, I’m all about body washes. It’s something about a rich lather that turns shower time into a relaxing experience for me.

That’s why I’m currently obsessed with Caress’ new line of cleansers. Launched last month, the Forever Collection is taking body washes to a new level. Available in two scents: Love Forever (a mix or dark berries and scarlet roses) and Adore Forever (a mix of vanilla, honey and roses), these cleansers are the first perfume-infused body washes to release a fragrance with every touch.

Caress Forever Collection body washes available at drugstores and mass retailers nationwide, $3.99

Thanks to the technology of Caress Fragrance Release Pearls, skin is treated to a subtle scent that lasts well beyond the shower. I usually buy body washes that are more on the sweet side, but these floral notes are not overpowering and actually quite nice.

Aside from the refreshing long-lasting (up to 12 hours!) fragrance, the body washes thoroughly cleanse without drying out skin. Plus, the packaging is just so darn pretty. The sleek black bottle exudes a luxe feel that you typically don’t find with drugstore brands.

If body washes are your go-to cleansers, give these a try— you won’t be disappointed.

Do you prefer sweet, citrusy or floral scented body washes?

Category: Beauty | 2 Comments

Jane Iredale Launches Country Weekend Collection for Spring

March 9, 2015

This winter I’ve been in desperate need of a getaway.

So when jane iredale—The Skin Care Makeup team invited me to leave the city to celebrate their upcoming spring launch, I jumped at the chance.

About 60 miles outside of New York City, we bloggers and editors were whisked away to the Bedford Post Inn in Bedford, NY for a beauty-ful evening. Owned by critically-acclaimed actor, Richard Gere, the renowned bed and breakfast was as dreamy as a romantic movie set.

The location served as the perfect backdrop to showcase the mineral makeup brand’s beautiful new “Country Weekend” line. Comprised of a lip color, gel eyeliner and eye shadow kit of versatile shades—the new spring offerings are ideal for a soft and ultra-feminine look.

jane iredale “Country Weekend” Spring Collection available here, Getaway Palette ($58), Jelly Jar in Espresso ($28) and Just Kissed Forever Peach Lip & Cheek Stain ($25)

While I’m a huge fan of jane iredale’s Jelly Jars and eye shadow palettes, my favorite item from this particular collection is the Just Kissed Forever Peach Lip & Cheek Stain. Similar to mood makeup, the lip color customizes into a peachy pink shade based on your body’s unique chemistry. Admittedly, I was a bit apprehensive to see if it would actually complement and work for darker skin-tones for us BGs, but was pleasantly surprised. It gave me a peachy pink tint that was subtle, yet still eye-catching. Plus, it left my lips super moisturized without feeling greasy.

After learning and testing out the new products, we were treated to a hands-on pasta making demo conducted by Bedford Post Inn’s head chef, Michael White. Following the demo, we dined on a delicious three-course dinner coupled with some of the best wine I’d ever tasted.

Stuffed and happy, the evening had successfully satisfied my yearning for a mini-getaway. Now I’m just counting down the days for spring to finally arrive!

Did you have a getaway this winter? What makeup trends are you looking forward to trying this spring?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

Crayola Brings Kids’ Creations to Life with Color Alive App

March 4, 2015

Like many adults my age, some of my fondest childhood memories involve drawing in coloring books—my have times changed.

Nowadays kids barely know what a crayon is because they’re so attached to their hand-held gadgets and high-tech devices.

Thanks to Crayola, kids can now combine the classic pastime of coloring with an innovative technological twist. Their new Color Alive coloring books (available in 4 different concepts including: Barbie, Enchanted Forest, Mythical Creations and Skylanders) and app (by DAQRI) is a mind-blowing interactive experience that turns colored creations into incredible animated 4-D drawings!

Crayola Color Alive Coloring Books available here, $5.99 each

During a press preview hosted by The Moms last month, I was able to see first-hand how the app works. First, download the app on either Android or Apple devices. Then, have your child color the pages from one of the books using the crayons that come with the book (you can use regular crayons too). After your little one is done coloring, simply hover and scan the device over the page, touch the 4D button and watch the magic happen!

My son having tons of fun at the Crayola Color Alive event last month in New York City.

Your kids will be amazed to see their drawings come to life. For fun, they can even take selfies with their creations and store them in your device’s photo gallery.

My daughter colored this little creature using the Color Alive app.

I’ve seen a lot of things, but I was super impressed by Color Alive. Plus, the book is under $10 and the app is free! It’s good to know that Crayola is keeping up with the times without compromising the brand’s mission—cultivating imagination!

What’s your child’s favorite app?

Category: Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

Product Review: Get Happy Feet with the Emjoi Micro-Pedi

March 2, 2015

I don’t know about you, but this winter is wreaking havoc on my skin—from head to toe!

My face is certainly feeling the wrath of Old Man Winter, but my feet seem to be catching the most heat, er, brunt of it. Thank goodness for the Emjoi MicroPedi!

Emjoi Micro-Pedi available at CVS, $29.99

This pampering little gadget has been a lifesaver for my soles. It scrapes off the toughest calluses effortlessly. The battery-operated rotating roller gently nicks away dry skin that’s hardened and thickened due to the lack of moisture. Remember, winter tends to strip our skin of its natural oils that keep it supple and soft. That’s why it’s important to keep skin adequately hydrated with moisturizing lotions and creams during cold-weather months. But, let’s get back to the MicroPedi…

While it might be tempting to firmly press it against stubborn calluses, don’t try it. The device is smartly designed to slough away dead skin easily without having to put forth much effort. If you press too firmly, it could potentially damage your skin or cause the device to malfunction.

I’ve been using it right after I get out the shower when my skin is supple. But, I make sure that my feet are thoroughly dried before using the MicroPedi, as the directions suggest. After a few rolls back and forth, my feet are left feeling smooth and super soft. I wish there was a compartment to catch the dead skin for easy disposal, but a thorough rinse cleans it off too. Plus, it also comes with two rollers for added use.

So, if you are looking to give your feet some much needed TLC, stop by your local CVS and pick one up. Trust me, your feet will thank you!

What do you use to get rid of ugly calluses during the winter?

Category: Beauty, Health | Leave a Comment

Oscar Hair: Get Lupita Nyong’o’s Look in 5 Simple Steps

February 23, 2015

Lupita Nyong’o looked absolutely lovely at last night’s Oscars.

The Academy-award winning actress stunned in an eye-catching pearl-embroidered cream Calvin Klein gown that flattered her figure and complemented her beautiful complexion. While her dress was nothing short of show-stopping, it was her natural hair that really pulled her ensemble together.

Celebrity hairstylist Larry Sims created the star’s winning coif. Instead of giving her an out-of-the box look, he opted for a more traditional style. “We went for a classic, more rounded look that played off the pearls and texture of her dress, avoiding asymmetric, angular lines and edges,” he said.

If you’re a fellow naturalista rocking a tight crop and want to copy Lupita’s sophisticated look, Sims shares how he achieved the style with the help of Smooth ‘N Shine products in a few simple steps.

Check them out below:
1. Dampen hair with a warm towel to soften the texture
2. Apply Smooth ‘N Shine Smooth Olive & Tea Tree RevivOil Wrap & Set Mousse paired with Smooth ‘N Shine Argan Power 10 Styling Gel to create tiny ringlets with a small rattail comb throughout the whole head, starting at the nape of neck and moving to the front
3. Attached hooded dryer for 30 minutes or until hair is dry
4. Once completely dry, take a large tooth bone comb and lift the ringlets to break up the texture for added volume
5. Liberally spray Smooth ‘N Shine Instant Repair Spray-On Polisher for added shine and smooth out any fly-aways and frizzies

What did you think of Lupita’s look?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

Twitter Contest: CVS Wants to Know Your #BeautySecret

February 16, 2015

It’s no secret that we all have a few beauty secrets that we swear by. Throughout the month of February, CVS Beauty Club wants to know what’s your hush-hush trick to looking lovely?

Being raised in a house with my mom and two older sisters, I learned quite a few beauty hacks that I’ve since adopted. But, I actually discovered my all-time favorite tip on my own. Before I had kids, I traveled A LOT. I was in and out of airports quite frequently. That said, one day in the airport bathroom I looked in the mirror and my face looked like an oil slick! I didn’t have any blotting papers so I opted for the next best thing—toilet seat covers!

Yep, it may sound a bit gross, but trust me they work like a charm. Just be sure to grab a few from the back to ensure cleanliness. They’re thin and super absorbent! Plus, just like real blotting papers they remove excess oil without ruining your makeup.

So when I’m out and about and need to de-shine, these are my go-to! You can even purchase them at office supply stores for a much better value than official makeup blotting papers.

One other tip that I do is that I always use a liquid liner like Maybelline’s Eye Studio for my upper lids for a perfect cat eye, but for my bottom lids I use colored eyeliners like a deep plum or a dark forest green for an unexpected pop that looks almost black, but wit.

Share your beauty secret tips, pearls or wisdom or favorite low-key product that keeps you looking picture-perfect with CVS and you could win a $50 CVS/pharmacy gift card! Simply tweet your #BeautySecret (use the hashtag: #beautysecret) to @CVSBeautyClub and you could be a lucky winner!

Do you have any favorite beauty tips/tricks/advice?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment