The Queen of Style

I’m Obsessed with Jillian Rose Reed’s Outfit

The ‘Awkward’ actress has an adorbs winter outfit on, here’s how to get the same look.

-PJ Gach

 

Tamara Kaplan AKA Jillian Rose Reed wore this fab winter outfit for the Hollywood Parade benefiting Toys for Tots Foundation, and all I can say is that I need this outfit. Wintry, but fun, it’s a great mix of textures and prints.

  What I Wore: A Walk in the Woods

She’s wearing a Darling coat, Dear Creatures sweater (on sale!!), AMI Clubwear beanie and Lumier skirt.

  Tell me: What do you think of this look?

 Photo credit

The Manly Man Holiday Gift Guide

Whether it’s your dad, your BF, your hubby, your bro, or your whatever, here’s a gift or two he’ll love.

-PJ Gach

 

Holiday shopping can be fun or torturous. When it comes to buying a gift (or three) for the men in your life, it’s a bit like roulette because there’s a chance they’ll hate it as much as they’ll love it. To take away some of the gift giving strain---‘cause I can’t help you wrap it---here are some fab gift suggestions for you.

 What I Wore: A Walk in the Woods

 

 

1. Warby Parker Paley Sunnies ($95, warbyparker.com). He’ll be the Sultan of Cool in these marblewood sunnies.  2. Kamado Joe  Ceramic Grill & Smoker in Black ($849.99, acehardware.com). What man doesn’t love a good grillin’? 3. Crosley Cruiser Turntable ($130, ingodwetrust.com). Made from wood, this 3 speed retro-looking turntable’s just the thing to get your groove on. 4. Thorny Rose Wines #Feeling Thorny Wine Flask* ($60, ingodwetrust.com). Thorny Rose wines teamed up with In God We Trust for this limited edition wine flask. Just the thing to keep him warm!* Wine not included. 5. Catepillar Orso Boot ($79.95, amazon.com). This great boot made with thick, soft leather is perfect for snowy and non-snowy days.  6. Reebok ONE Insulated Vest ($65, shop.reebok.com). Perfect for runners or guys who like warmth without bulk, this vest is a great addition to his wardrobe. 7. Slap Shot Hockey Game ($22.49, costplusworldmarket.com). Table top hockey for those snowed in days. 8. Crabtree & Evelyn Nomad Sampler ($26, crabtree-evelyn.com). This classic manly scented set contains- Nomad Hair & Body Wash (50mL, Nomad Shave Cream (50g), Nomad Aftershave Balm (50mL), Nomad Eau de Toilette (8mL)—the perfect size for travel, gym or when he’s staying over your house. 9.  Jaquard-Knit Sweater ($14.95, hm.com). It’ll bring out the color in his eyes.

10. Swiss Army Maverick Silver Tone Watch ($495, lordandtaylor.com). Water resistant and oh, so chic, he’ll never take it off.

Video: How to Wear a Scarf Three Ways

Let me show you a couple of ways to wear your fave scarf this winter.

-PJ Gach

 

Have a big scarf laying around the house? Can't figure what to do with it? How to wear it?

Check out the above video for tips!

4 Sexy Fragrances to Wear Now

Like the top? It's RD Style long sleeve faux leather tee and it's on sale now at Bluefly!

Movie Review: American Hustle

David O. Russell scores another hit with American Hustle.

-PJ Gach

The decade that glorified narcissism, polyester, and perms is the setting for David O. Russell’s latest movie, American Hustle.

The plot weaves the ABSCAM scandal with backstories of the major participants: An FBI agent (Bradley Cooper) with a fondness for curls, a portly, amoral yet romantic con man (Christian Bale), A mayor who wants to bring glory to his home state (Jeremy Renner), a chameleon with sharp business instincts who makes grand larceny look like a child’s game (Amy Adams) and a beautiful, manipulative woman with the intelligence of a stone--sorry stones--(Jennifer Lawrence).

 What I Wore: A Walk in the Woods

What happens when the pursuit of justice is overwhelmed by an overweening ego?  The gray areas of morality: i.e. participating in an illegal activity for a philanthropic outcome, the antihero becoming the hero and vice versa are themes that are explored in this movie.  Each character, even the secondary ones are finely drawn. They cross and double-cross each other with aplomb.  

 FBI agent Richie DiMaso (Cooper) snags conman Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale with an outstanding 45 pound weight gain) and his cohort Sydney Prosser AKA Edith Greensley (Amy Adams) into his plot to snag more conman. He offers the duo immunity if the two can bring him four more conman. His ego and ambition keeps pushing Rosenfeld to grab more, and before you  know it, they’re meeting mobsters in back rooms and ensnaring high level politicos.

  

Clocking in at 138 minutes, the movie is a visual and plot feast. There isn’t a dead moment (which can be problematic…say needing a bathroom break). Within seconds of the opening, you’re whisked into the glorious synthetic 70s. Judy Becker, Russell’s long time collaborator has an exquisite eye for detail. Each set, down to the minutest pieces, like the hanging spice rack in Sydney Prosser/Edith Greensley’s kitchen is an item that was popular during that era.

 And oh, the soundtrack! Few movies accurately utilize music to underscore a scene, set a mood, or reinforce the action the way it’s done in American Hustle. Not only is the music chronologically dead on for the time period of the movie, it’s an incredibly effective tool to heighten scenes.

 They only disconcerting is the hair! When first meeting Jeremy Renner’s pompadour, one is astounded by the height of it. It’s as if it is its own being. Seeing Cooper’s hair in teeny weeny perm rollers is a (quiet) moment of hilarity and as for Adams and Lawrence, when staring at their ‘dos one is fascinated, simply fascinated by the look and how it was achieved. In all honesty, the hairstyles could be secondary characters; the hair alone could win awards.

 In short, this is another stellar and seamless movie from Russell. The cast is tight and perfect in their portrayals. No one, neither the leads, nor Robert De Niro in a surprise cameo, or Louis C.K.  as DiMaso’s hapless supervisor, pulls a “star turn.” They all inhabit their characters as if they had stepped into their spines. These stars are actors doing a spectacular job.

Lawrence, once again proves she can play any age, any type. Christian Bale is probably one of the most underrated actors of this decade. His portrayal of Rosenfeld is masterful. Amy Adams, oh Amy Adams is as much of a chameleon as the character she portrays. At once vulnerable and strong, with a wily sense of survival, Adams owns this movie. Cooper truly is a wacked out, cocaine snorting, emotionally stunted FBI agent. Renner’s depiction of politico and family man Mayor Carmine Polito combines a deft touch of vulnerability, innocence and strength.

 Holiday Recipe Treats: Hot Chocolate + Cookies

I was lucky enough to attend a screening from the NY Film Critics Series. The series is hosted by Rolling Stone film critic Peter Travers. Films in the series have a Q and A session with directors and actors from the movies watched. For American Hustle, David O. Russell answered questions from the audience in the theater in New York City and the other 49 theaters who watched the movie simultaneously!

If you want to attend their next screening, get news from them and join the NY Film Critics Series, text 22828 to get on their mailing list.

Photo Credit

What I Wore: A Walk in the Woods

Sometimes you need to leave the city, throw on a parka and boots, then listen for birdsong.

-PJ Gach

So many poets have written about walking in the woods. They talk about the romance of it, the quiet, the solitude and yes, the spookiness of it too. Sometimes you need to take a break from the speed and sounds of the city and take a long, winding hike.

 

What I Wore: Tribal Prints in the Park

 What I Wore: Channeling Kate Middleton

What I wore:

Gentle Fawn Vienna Parka

Gypsy05 Bristol Deep V Dress with Elastic Waist

Chloe Aviator Sunnies

Vintage necklaces

India Hicks Love Letters Initial Necklace

Yummy Tummy Tights-Deidra

Old Navy Fingerless Gloves

Pixi Beauty Flawless Beauty Fluid

Pixi Beauty Icy Lip Luster Set

Pixi Beauty Endless Silky Eye Pen

Pixi Beauty Icy Eye Shadow Palette

Lamcome Hypnose Mascara

Sonia Kashuk Beautifying Blush

Shop Lately clutch

Colette Malouf headband

Photography by Richard Spiegel

Holiday Recipe Treats: Hot Chocolate + Cookies

Fab and easy to make recipes from The Food Network.com and Target.

-PJ Gach

 

Brrr, baby it’s cold outside! Nothing’s better than a cup of hot chocolate! Well, you could throw in a few marshmallows.  Of course if you’re going to have hot chocolate, you need something to go with it, right? Fans of The Food Network weighed in on what was their favorite holiday cookie. The Chocolate-Almond Butter Thumbprint Cookie (recipe below) was born.

 Recipe: Slow Cooker Hearty Beef Stew

Try these recipes for your next get together.

Mexican Hot Chocolate

Add some spice to your hot cocoa, try Archer Farms Malted Milk Hot Cocoa Mix. Mix in Archer Farms Ground Cinnamon and Archer Farms Chili Powder into your cocoa.

 Chocolate-Almond Butter Thumbprint Cookies

_{Recipe courtesy of The Food Network.com}

These treats are reminiscent of everyone's favorite peanut butter blossom cookies-a little more grown up but just as addictive. They stay fresh and delicious refrigerated in an airtight container.

Ingredients

Cookies:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon fine salt

1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature

1/2 cup smooth, unsweetened almond butter

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1/3 cup plus 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 large egg

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1/3 cup sliced, skin-on almonds, coarsely chopped

Chocolate Ganache Filling:

5 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped

1/2 cup heavy cream

Special equipment: pastry bag with a star tip

Directions:

For the cookies: Adjust the racks to the top and lower thirds of the oven and preheat to 375 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.

Combine the butter and almond butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or in a large bowl if using a hand mixer). Beat on medium-high speed until smooth and combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the brown sugar and 1/3 cup of the granulated sugar and continue to beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla and beat until combined. Adjust the speed to medium-low and add the flour in two batches, mixing until just incorporated.

Combine the chopped almonds and the remaining 3 tablespoons granulated sugar in a small bowl.

Scoop out even tablespoons of cookie dough, roll into balls and then dredge in the almond-sugar mixture. Space the balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake until the cookies appear dry and slightly cracked on the top and golden brown on the bottom, 10 to 12 minutes.

Use the rounded side of a teaspoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie. Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheets, and then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

For the chocolate ganache filling: While the cookies cool, combine the chocolate and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 45 second increments, stirring well between each, until smooth. Let cool completely at room temperature.

Fill a pastry bag fitted with a medium star tip with the chocolate ganache. Pipe about 1 teaspoon of the ganache into the center of each cookie. Serve, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Dreamsicle-Adult Hot Cocoa

Mix in Orange liqueur and vanilla into a dark hot chocolate mix—try Archer Farms Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa.

Pumpkin Spice Hot Cocoa

Stir in pumpkin spice and Archer Farms Sea Salt Caramel mix into a hot chocolate mix.

 Recipe: The Lazy Person’s Shrimp Alfredo

 Quick Present Bonus Round:

DIY Hot Cocoa Mason Jar Gift

Created by design expert David Stark, steal this idea for yourself. Take a mason jar and layer Archer Farms Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix, Market Pantry Marshmallows and peppermint sticks inside.

 Photos 1, 2, 3, 4

 

What I Wore: Tribal Prints in the Park

Layering prints and solids for a walk in the park.

-PJ Gach

Fall has tricky weather. One day it’s really warm, the next day you’re freezing. Sometimes the temp can seesaw; You’re violently cold in the morning, then boiling in the afternoon. Layering seems to be the only way you can stay warm and not let Mother Nature screw up your style.

Trench coat- RD Style

Tribal print cardigan- Gypsy05

Jeans- Charlotte Russe

Nail polish-Sally Hansen Insta Dri Co-Bolt Blue

Photos by Richard Spiegel

Come Out and Party with Kiehl’s Tonight in New York City

Kiehl’s celebrates their new store in Hell’s Kitchen and The Ali Forney Center in style.

-PJ Gach

 

Get your party on tonight at the newest Kiehl’s store in New York City. Tonight from 7:30 to 9:30 PM, you can karaoke your heart out, spot a celebrity like Alan Cummings, Sandra Bernhard, Lea DeLaria and more. You could win a prize for the most festive holiday outfit (best dressed gets a year’s supply of Kiehl’s) and pick up a mystery gift card worth anywhere from $10 to $1,000!

 Beauty Product Review: LauraMercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder

The newest Kiehl’s store is located at 678 9^th Avenue at 47^th Street in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen. When you stop by tonight, you’ll be part of the ribbon cutting and check presentation to The Ali Forney Center. The center assists homeless LGBTQ teens with housing and other services.

 

The emcee for the night is Ladyfag. She’ll make sure you get up and sing! And don’t you want to see Billy Porter from Broadway’s Kinky Boots do a karoake or two?

 

When you’re there, don’t forget to use their hashtag #KiehlsHK when tweeting.

 

Photo credit

Radiant Orchid Is the Color of the Year!

Rock Pantone’s pick on your lips, eyes, on your feet…even in your home.

-PJ Gach

 

According to Pantone, Radiant Orchid, the color of the year,  “Blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination...It’s a captivating harmony of fuchsia, pink and purple undertones.” Sounds good to me! Who doesn’t want to be captivating? Oh, and according to Pantone, the color “Emanated great joy, love and health.” A lot of people I know had a bad (or so-so) 2013, so let’s hope that this joyous color helps everyone have a killer 2014. Orchid has rosy undertones, so it gives your skin a boost---It has the ability to make you look like you’re glowing.

Beauty Product Review: Pixi Beauty Primers

To spread a little joy and love, here are a few items for you to pick up in this year’s hot color.

Beauty

 

Kevyn Aucoin The Matte Lip Color in Persistence ($33, beauty.com), Too Faced Intense  Eye Shadow in Poison  Orchid ($18, beauty.com), Mally Beauty High Shine Liquid Lipstick in Orchid ($20, ulta.com), Butter London Nail Lacquer in Molly Coddled ($15, ulta.com).

 Jewelry

 Kendra Scott Gold-Plated Elle Earrings ($52, neimanmarcus.com), Purple Curve Rhinestone Ring ($5.99, amiclubwear.com), Radiant Amethyst Stretch Bracelet ($27.38, 19.28.com), Kate Spade New York Palm Pearls Long Necklace ($87.99, piperlime.com)

 Urban Zen’s Holiday Marketplace has Gifts That Keep on Giving

 Shoes

 

Noni Studded Metal Heel Pumps ($89.99, bebe.com), Giuseppe Zanotti Smoking Flats Dalila in Purple ($455, bloomingdales.com), Enzo Anglioni Parita Booties ($120, macys.com), Ferragamo Pam Suede d’Orsay Pumps ($525, saksfifthavenue.com).

 4 Sexy Fragrances to Wear Now

Clothes

 DL 1961 Denim Emma in Nevis ($64, dl1961.com), Extreme Push Up Bra ($6.99, lucky21.com) ,Asymmetric Cut-Out Purple Sweater ($39.99, romwe.com), Tibi Sleeveles Stretch Ponte Skater Dress ($285, net-a-porter.com),.

Home

 

Bunny Money Bank ($21, 87, karmakiss.com),  Zoyu  iPhone 5/5S Flip Case ($7.30, yesstyle.com),  Color Solutions Duvet Set in Purple ($49.99 full/queen, $69.99, king, bedbathandbeyond.com),iPod Shuffle 2GB MP3 Player in Purple ($46, Target stores nationwide)

Beauty Product Review: Pixi Beauty Primers

Pixi Beauty has two primers, how good are they?

-PJ Gach

 

Sometimes I’m slow on the uptake. When primers first came out, my first thought was, “Why?” I tried a few but wasn’t really impressed with anything. Then I tried Pixi Beauty’s Flawless & Poreless Primer ($22, pixibeauty.com) and their Redness Reducing Primer ($28, pixibeauty.com) and I love them!

I first tried out the Redness Reducing Primer because for some odd reason, the only part of my face that seems permanently tan is my nose. The primer has a pale green tint which neutralizes any redness you may have on your complexion. It’s silky soft, feather weight and absorbs instantly into your skin. The primer does double duty: It also contains Aloe Vera, Vitamin A and Vitamin E, so it’s soothing and feeding your skin at the same time. When you apply your base over it, you’ve got gorgeous looking skin.

Then I tried their Pixi Beauty’s Flawless & Poreless Primer. Like the Redness Reducing Primer, it’s silky and slides onto your skin. It’s got a super lightweight formula and makes your complexion look flawless. It also hydrates your skin with Shea Butter, minimizes pores, controls shine and is hypoallergenic. It comes in one shade; Translucent and it simply melds into your skin.

ou don’t need to use a lot of product when applying either primer. A little goes a long way, which means you’ll be able to use the primer for quite a few months.

_{Disclaimer: All products were  sent to me by PR firms for editorial consideration.}

Urban Zen’s Holiday Marketplace has Gifts That Keep on Giving

Donna Karan and Urban Zen have come together to create a unique holiday shopping experience.

-PJ Gach

 

This holiday season when you’re buying a present, think about selecting a gift that gives back. That idea is behind the concept of the Urban Zen Holiday Marketplace. Located at 705 Greenwich Street in New York City, Urban Zen is a philosophy of living by Donna Karan. She gathered 28 designers: Ana Srdic, Burkindy Jewelry, Bonnie Young, CariniLang, Celine Cannon,  Elizabeth Jordan, Elvis And Kresse, Elizabeth Martin, FEED, From The Road, Furniture Garden, Girlie by Debra Rodman, Jan George, Jason Ross, Jennifer Anderson, Jewelry For A Cause, Just Shea, Kahina, Laurin Copen Antiques, LemLem,  Lole, Melete Mercantile,  Nomad Two Worlds,  Playing Mantis,  Ruby Beets, Same Sky, Sheila Johnson Collection,  Tripoli Patterson, Urban Zen, and WAKA WAKA.

Each of those designers or companies has allied themselves with a cause they believe in. During the holiday marketplace, Urban Zen is contributing 10 percent of the net proceeds to benefit the Urban Zen Foundation. It promotes well being, empowering children and preserving cultures.

 Sean Penn, Links Jewelry, Neil Koppel and You Can Help Haiti

 

Donna Karan was at the press preview. At one point she and I were chatting and she said to me, “My dressing is easy; black in the winter and white in the summer.”  She told me how her daughter would go into her closet and pair an expensive beaded gown with cowboy boots, then go off to school in the outfit. And now, her granddaughter is going through her closet too! I told her I did the same, "And the best store in the world is mommy’s closet.”

As I walked through the marketplace during the press preview, I noted that you could decorate your home with the furnishing, adorn yourself with jewels and clothe everyone in your family. There were so many fascinating, gorgeous items to feast your eyes on.

 

Two companies really caught my eye: Elvis And Kresse and Jewelry For A Cause. Elvis and Kresse creates bags and accessories from fire hoses. Not only are the objects durable, they’re gorgeous. Jewelry for A Cause is showcasing jewelry (bangles and cufflinks) from their Caliber Collection. Made from bullet casings taken from the streets and serial numbers from illegal guns taken by the Newark Police Department, 20 percent of the proceeds of each sale funds future buyback programs in Newark, New Jersey

The marketplace is open now through New Year’s Eve. For hours and directions, call them at 631-725-6176.

Losing Weight & Getting Fit Entry 5: Got My Butt Kicked in Swimsuitsforall’s Water Fitness Class

Working out for an hour in water? I survived the Swimsuitsforall  aqua fitclass a little waterlogged but happy.

-PJ Gach

_{(Photo courtesy of Jackie Anzaroot from Swimsuitsforall)}

Not to long ago I posted an article about how I was invited to an aqua fitness class courtesy of Swimsuitsforall. Last night was the showdown. The class. The workout. How was it? A heckuva lot of fun and exhausting!

 Losing Weight & Getting Fit Entry 3: Losing Inches

The event was hosted by Cece Olisa, Editrix of The Big Girl Blog: Tales of a Plus Size Princess. Kellie Brown of NYLA coordinated the bloggers and got everyone motivated—Watch the video when she tosses her goggles!

 

Jackie Anzaroot from Swimsuitsforall took photos of us and let us use her hotspot (Allons-y Jackie!). Swimsuitsforall provided fabulously tailored, well made and sexy swimsuits from their AquaBelle collection. Styles range from flirty retro 40s one pieces to serious shortinis.

After changing into our suits, posing for photos and giggling, we headed on into the pool. NYSC on 3^rd avenue has a pool! Who knew? Luckily for me, it wasn’t deep. As you can see from the photos, once again, I’m the hobbit of the group.

Waiting for Tyrello, our aquatic workout teacher, we cavorted like dolphins in the pool. When Tyrello came, turned on the music and started the workout, we didn’t stop giggling. Don’t get the wrong idea, we worked out. We worked out hard! Tyrello’s mantra was, “Move the water!” For an hour straight, we jogged in the water, did crunches in the water, jumping jacks in the water, you named it, we “Moved the water.” By the end of the work out, I was exhilarated and felt all my muscles.

 4 Sexy Fragrances to Wear Now

If you took the moves from an aquatic workout onto dry land, the only people who could do it well would either be gymnasts or dancers. You are constantly moving each inch of your body. Each muscle group gets a total workout. You never stop moving, you never stop jogging. If anyone ever tells you that water aerobics is for grannies, ask them if they’d like to jog in the water for an hour straight.

Whether I was kicking my legs, jogging, or attempting to get my knees under my chin whilst keeping my butt sticking out, I’d like to report that NOT ONCE did the bottom of my suit ride up, move around or drive me crazy. I’ve been in tons of one pieces over the years. Whether it was gym in junior high (the flashbacks are making me sweat) or swimming laps at my local pool, I’ve had on everything from Speedo to, well you name the brand that makes one piece swimsuits for swimmers, and the butt always does something funky when you swim. Not the swimsuitsforall suit.

Beauty Product Review: Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder

                                                         _{After the workout--tired, but happy}

The suit, I had on the Red Front Zip Tank (very Lara Croft).  The suit provides UV protection, has molded cups for anti-bounce and a power mesh tummy control which supports your core. When I was working out in the pool, I didn’t need to adjust anything at all.

My takeaway from this experience was two-fold: I think I found the perfect suit to swim laps and workout in the water and I’m going to see if I can take a water workout class once or twice a week. It’s a lot of fun and my abs really got a workout.

Recipe: Slow Cooker Hearty Beef Stew

This slow cooker stew is high in taste, but low maintenance to make.

-PJ Gach

 

The moment it gets cooler, I drag out my slow cooker and go to town. I love making beef stews, chilies and ribs. When I’m slicing and dicing, I like to play Frank Sinatra, some sax—anything jazzy, it gets me in the mood and I find myself singing along. Thank god the only thing who hears my off-key warbling is my dog.

Recipe: The Lazy Person’s Shrimp Alfredo

If you’ve read my other recipes, you know that I love to experiment in the kitchen. After playing with a few different slow cooker stew recipes over the years, I think I created a winner. Like all of my other recipes, you can adjust the ingredients to your taste. I like meat. No, I love meat! So I used about two and a half pounds of meat in this recipe. Too meaty? Just use more veggies instead.

2 pounds of stew meat

3 tablespoons of flour

1/4 teaspoon of crushed garlic

1 cup of cooking sherry

1 can of beef broth

5-6 mushrooms cut up

1/2 onion cut up

6 carrots cut up

2 red potatoes cut up

1 6 oz can of peas

1 6 oz can of carrots

lemon pepper

pepper

Sea Salt

I cut up veggies roughly, not fine. When they’re in a stew the veggies shrink and I feel that a rough cut veggie looks better in a stew. Cut up all your veggies, put to the side, except the onion.

Place onion in the bottom of the slow cooker.

 

Take a large cutting board and sprinkle flour on it. Then place your stew meat on the cutting board. Sprinkle lemon pepper and pepper (or whatever seasonings you love) on the stew meat. Then lightly sprinkle flour over the meat. Place into the slow cooker.  Add the 1/4 tsp pf crushed garlic. Then add all the veggies. Then add one cup of cooking sherry and the can of beef broth.  Sprinkle a little bit of sea salt and mix into the stew. If you want a thicker stew, sprinkle in the remaining flour and mix it in.

Cook on low for 12 hours.

Feeds 6-8 people.

 You can freeze the stew in small containers. Then you’ve got pre-made dinner.

How to Dress Like an A-Lister for Less

Consigment shops, like Michael’s serve up designer goods at amazing prices.

-PJ Gach

_{Dolce & Gabbana dress, $595, 3 strand gold costume necklace, $79 Gold cuff with black jewels,Balenciaga shoes, $150 (photo courtesy of Michael's Consignment)}

Instead of sighing over yummy, high end items like a Chanel purse or a pair of Fendi shoes, head on over to your local consignment store. They’re usually stocked with tons of items; everything from jewelry to cocktail dresses for a fraction of the retail price. Best of all, they’re all on trend items.

Get Your Luxury Holiday Shopping on with Christie’s

You would be, or maybe you wouldn’t be surprised to find out who shops and drops their clothing off at consignment stores. According to Michael’s Consgnment owner, Laura Fluhr, “Our consigners provide the best in luxury apparel and accessories; our shoppers walk away with something truly unique and special. Often the same client drops and then shops.”

_{(Left to right) Shoes: Jimmy Choo, $295. YSL, $395.Balenciaga, $150. Christian Louboutin, $335.Lanvin, $395. YSL, $395. (Photo courtesy of Michael's Consignment)}

You might walk into one consignment store and spot an A List actress, stylist or socialite. “I usually don’t give away my styling secrets, but often times I can be found shopping consignment so my celebrity clients don’t get photographed in the same outfit twice,” says MTV Networks Senior Stylist, Alana Kelen. “Sometimes I’ll be on the lookout for a specific piece like a fabulous red vintage Chanel clutch, other times just browsing for a one-of-a-kind find ... and Michael’s is the first place I go!”

 4 Sexy Fragrances to Wear Now

Check out your local consignment shops for designer finds. If there isn’t one near you, try Michael’s Consignment. Yes, they’re located at 1041 Madison Avenue in New York City, but they also have an online store as well.

 

Get Your Luxury Holiday Shopping on with Christie’s

Christie’s, the famous auction house, now has an incredible gift guide for all your luxury needs.

-PJ Gach

When you think of Christie’s, you probably think of art, design and rare object d’art auctions. Now they’ve produced  their first ever and quite incredible luxury gift guide. It’s chock full of things that will make your heart sing. Christie’s Unwrapped contains over 100 items for new and experienced collectors in a wide variety of prices.

 

Their Luxury Handbag and Accessories auction is enough to make the most experienced bag-aholic swoon. They have classic Hermès bags, new-ish Chanel bags, Diorissimo, Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton and more. The auction goes until December 10^th, so you might want to wander over there now.

 Get Jennifer Lawrence’s Sheer Red Carpet Look for Less

 

If that’s not enough, their Luxury Jewels (Swoon! Swoon!) auction starts on December 5^th. It’s an online-only sale! Jewels from Gucci, Cartier, Chanel and more to adorn wrists, necks, fingers and ears. What could be more delightful than something glittery under the tree? Ummm, not much!

4 Sexy Fragrances to Wear Now

This is the time of year when people get really close; leave an impression with a delicious perfume.

-PJ Gach

 

When it’s colder outside, people have a tendency to stay inside. When you stay inside, you get a little closer to the person sitting next to you.  When you get a little closer, things could happen…like, say a kiss. Why not leave an impression with a warm and tantalizing fragrance? Who  knows, after smelling your new scent, they may want to come  back for another sniff. Here are four new fragrances to try now.

Beauty Product Review: Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder

 

Aroma M Geisha Perfume Rouge ($80 for 1 oz, aromam.com). Crafted by Maria McElroy, one of the few American perfumers, Aroma M Geisha Perfume Rouge is a spicy treat. The fragrance is a blend of Tonka bean, tobacco, vanilla, cinnamon, star anise, clove and sandalwood.

Bellegance Midnight Promise ($105 for 2.5 oz, belleleganceperfumes.com). A new perfume created by renowned fragrance designer, Sarah Horowitz with Karen Dubin. Midnight Promise is an enticing blend of red mandarin, cinnamon, red Moroccan rose, melded with amber, vanilla, fresh vetiver, patchouli, sandalwood and musk.

Avon Passion Eau de Parfum Spray ($36 for 1.7 oz, shop.avon.com). When I was sent this fragrance by Avon, I couldn’t wait to rip open the glam looking box. The bottle is just as glam: Very Art Deco, very luxe looking. The fragrance? Well, if you looking for something heady and provactive—this is it. Created by top perfumer, David Apel, it’s a unique blend of creamy musk, vanilla bourbon, star fruit and jasmine combine to create a distinctive, seductive scent.

 6 Truly Fantastic + Sexy Eye Liners I love

Issey Miyake L’Eau D’Issey Absolue Eau de Parfum Set ($110, nordstrom.com).  Fresh, clean and very memorable. Issey Miyake’s new fragrance is a floral mix of freesia, night blooming jasmine, lotus, bourbon vanilla and precious woods. It’s neither cloying nor sweet; it’s a very modern floral fragrance. For the holidays pick up this limited edition set. It contains Eau de parfum (3 oz.), travel-size eau de parfum (0.3 oz.) and moisturizing body lotion (2.6 oz.).

 Photo Credit

Disclaimer: All products were  sent to me by PR firms for editorial consideration.

How to Wear One Beaded Cardigan Three Ways

The same beaded sweater can be worn at work, on the weekend and at a holiday party.

-PJ Gach

Sometimes you find the most darling, fun, sexiest, yummiest item when you’re shopping. Sometimes it’s something that, at first thought, might be a bit too dressy, like a beaded sweater. Yeah, you love it, but you think you can only wear it once or maybe twice to holiday parties. Think again! That sparkly piece that you adore can be worn all winter long.

 How to Wear One Bootie Three Ways

Here’s just three ways you can wear a beaded sweater. I picked the Loft Scattered Gemstone Sweater ($69.50, loft.com) and created a work, weekend and party look with it.

 Work

Loft Gemstone Sweater ($69.50, loft.com), Darling Belinda Skirt in Teal ($67.62, darlingclothes.com), Coach Madison Small Kelsey Satchel in Python Embossed Leather ($258,  bonton.com), Fitzwell Lorelei Mary Jane Pump ($24.99, 6pm.com)

  Beauty Product Road Test: Neutrogena Rapid Repair Anti-Aging Moisturizers 

Weekend

Loft Gemstone Sweater ($69.50, loft.com), Gypsy05 Python Printed Long Sleeve Button Down Blouse ($187, gypsy05.com),  Skylar River Blue High Waist Jean ($46.90, delias.com), Vera Wang Simply Vera Wang Moto Boots ($48.99, kohls.com), Jennifer Lopez Veronica Cross  Body Bag in Crimson  ($35.40, kohls.com)

 Get Jennifer Lawrence’s Sheer Red Carpet Look for Less

Holiday Party

Loft Gemstone Sweater ($69.50, loft.com), Sublime Shine Dress ($72.99, modcloth.com), Sunkist Earrings ($13, shopsosie.com), Walking on Air Cut Out Heel ($13.20, feclothing.com), Raise Your Tone Envelope Clutch ($23.40, feclothing.com)

How would you wear a beaded sweater?

Happy Birthday Lucy Liu!

The ‘Elementary’ star’s birthday is today-check out how she rules the red carpet.

-PJ Gach

It’s Lucy Liu’s birthday today! The New York born Sagittarius has kicked butt in Kill Bill  Vol.1, was a Charlie’s Angel and is now Dr. Joan Watson, co-starring with  Johnny Lee Miller (lucky gal)  in CBS’s Elementary. She’s won two Blockbuster Entertainment Awards (Charlie’s Angels and Shanghai Noon), one BFCA Award (Chicago), an Emmy (Ally McBeal), two MTV Movie Awards (Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, Charlie’s Ange’s), SAG Award (Chicago, Ally McBeal), and a Teen Choice Award (Elementary).

 Rita Ora’s Red Carpet Flare

Lucy Liu is also an accomplished artist. She’s been regularly exhibiting her work under the name Yu Ling (her Chinese name) since 1993. She’s also a philanthropist and was appointed an U.S Fund for UNICEF Ambassador in 2004, and became a spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign in 2011.

Lucy Liu’s compassionate, brilliant and always wows us on the red carpet. She always wearing beautifully tailored, visually arresting gowns and fab outfits that work perfectly for her 5’3” frame.  Here are 10 photos from this past year that showcase her amazing style.

Golden Globes 2013

Looking like a princess from Versailles, Lucy Liu’s wearing a floral gown by Carolina Herrera, Lorraine Schwartz jewels, and shoes by Zanotti. You can’t see it in this photo, but she carried a Ferragamo clutch with her that night.

 PaleyFest Made in New York 2013

Yes, the event is called, “PaleyFest Made in New York,” but it was held in Washington  D.C. Maybe they did that to confuse people? Lucy was there for the Elementary panel. She wore a perfect (except for the price tag) date night dress by Roberto Cavalli, Saint Laurent shoes and a Jimmy Choo clutch.

 CBS Up Fronts 2013

For the network up fronts held in New York City, Lucy wore a Vivienne Westwood cocktail dress, Charlotte Olympia pumps, and David Yurman jewels. Best accessory? Her Elementary co-star Johnny Lee Miller.

 Rickshaw Bagworks: Beautiful Bags & 100% Recyclable

 2013 American Ballet Theatre Spring Gala

Looking very, very regal, Lucy wore a Vivienne Westwood gown, J. Mendel fur-trimmed capelet, Ferragamo bag and sparkly Lorraine Schwartz jewelry.

2013 BAM Ignite Gala at Skylight Modern in New York City

Very sexy! Lucy wore a black and white graphic print dress with a zip front, black peep-toes and a Louis Vuitton minauderie. Yet another killer outfit to inspire you for date night.

 One Bootie—3 Outfits

 Late Night with David Letterman- October 2013

On her way to banter with David Letterman, Lucy wore a dress by Boy Band of Outsiders, a studded clutch and black sandals.

Jimmy Fallon- November 2013

Let’s get graphic! Lucy wore a blue toned graphic print dress by Monique Lhuillier and lace accented black heels to Jimmy Fallon’s show.

At the airport 2013

She even looks chic flying from LA to New York City.

On the set of Elementary-2103

Looking cool and chic—not an easy combo to pull off- Lucy’s wearing a white piped black linen shift dress and color block ballet flats.

 Fighting the cold in February 2013

Wearing teal skinny jeans, leather trimmed coat and a royal blue scarf, Lucy looks so chic on a blustery day in February.  It doesn’t look like she ever has an off fashion day.

Photos 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10