The Queen of Style

Sarah Jessica Parker's Popup Shop Returns to New York City April 2!

The Sex And The City star's popup will showcase her shoes and more in April.
-PJ Gach
   Via Instagram
For all you shoe lovers out there, and those who remember that Carrie Bradshaw's IM handle was "Shoe Lover," Sarah Jessica Parker is re-opening her popup shop in New York City on April 2. 

In a press release, Parker stated, "We are very tickled to announce the reopening of our SJP Collection pop-up shop on 52nd Street. After an incredibly fun, successful and informative experience in the store last December, we all, not so secretly hoped that we’d be given an opportunity to open our doors once again.” 
   Via Instagram

According to Footwear News, the popup will carry her entire line of shoes, LBDs and bags. As of right now, there isn't a closing date, so you won't have to run in heels to head on over to the store before it closes.

Read Draper James Footwear Collab Is Sooo Cute

The SJP popup shop's located at 6 West 52nd Street, between 5th and 6th Avenues. To find out exactly what's going on, you might want to follow The SJP Collection on Instagram. The account is dropping photos of shoes and info!

David Letterman, Joel McHale and The Magic School Bus Arrives at Netflix in April

This April, Netlflix launches a slew of new series, documentaries and movies including The Duchess, Scarface and Lakeview Terrace.
-PJ Gach 
   Courtesy of Netflix

If you haven't had your fill of Caddyshack, The Whole Nine Yards, or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, hop to it! Those movies and more are leaving Netflix this April. The good news is that Netflix is unleashing tons of goodies to view, ahem, binge watch.

Read: Everything That's Leaving Netflix in April

Like to be scared silly? Watch Saffron Burrows and Thomas Jane get chased by sharks in Deep Blue Sea. Like watching a drunk Johnny Depp wobble about, then you'll love watching Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest. David Letterman interviews JAY-Z in My Next Guest Needs No Introduction,  and vampires abound in The Lost Boys and Queen of the Damned. Chris Rock and Adam Sandler team up (really!) as prospective in-laws in an Netflix Original, The Week Of. The Magic School Bus Rides Again and it's got Kate McKinnon.

Courtesy of Netflix

Of course Netflix has new documentaries including one on Pelé, and one on Bobby Kennedy, Jr.,  There's at least four series debuting. Want the full list so you can prep for your night in? Everything's listed after the jump, including cool animated movies like Looney Tunes: Back In Action, and The Iron Giant.

Just click below and go!

Rowan Blanchard Debuts Spring's Hottest Haircut: The Feathered Bob

A Wrinkle in Time star Rowan Blanchard showed off her new spring/summer haircut on Instagram.
-PJ Gach
   Via Instagram

Actress Rowan Blanchard AKA Jackie Geary in The Goldbergs and Veronica Kelly in A Wrinkle in Time showed off her new spring into summer hairstyle; the feathered bob on her hairstylist Laurie Heaps' Instagram.

Laurie Heaps explains how the style came about. “Rowan is always changing and evolving, and so with that, I see her differently, and the longer bob didn't reflect who she was anymore. She was ready for a change. Sharp edgy 90s babe meets French girl chic. The ends of a feather are slightly textured, but it keeps a curved shape that still looks blunt. This is exactly how I cut her new chin length style. ”

Read How to Calm Crazy Curls & Waves

Laurie cut the base line of the cut in a soft “U” shape and then point cut it, taking the points of her scissors and chopping into the line to soften it. “Yet, I wanted to keep the ends looking blunt, not overly texturized, just like a feather.”

It's super easy to style the bob. Here are the four steps to recreate this look at home.

1. On dry hair, divide hair and prep each section with White Sands Liquid Texture Medium Styling Spray before heat styling. Mist and brush into the hair.

2. Smooth each section with the GHD Classic 1 Inch Styler for frizz-free results.

3. Create a deep side part and sprinkle BioSilk’s Volumizing Therapy Texturizing Powder at the roots. It is best to work this in with your fingers for instant volume and texture.

4. Finish with Redken’s Shine Flash 02 Glistening Mist. It is a mild control hairspray and shine spray in one can.

April Is the Cruelest Month: Netflix Says "Buh-Bye" to Banksy Doc, Batman Movies, and More

Need to watch "American Pie" one more time? Or any of the Ace Ventura movies? Hurry up, Netflix is dropping them in April.
-PJ Gach

    Courtesy of Netflix

Every month, Netflix brings us joy. April has wonderful stuff like new series like Joel McHale's The Joe McHale Show With Joel McHale (starting April 1), or the Lost in Space re-boot (April 13), and new movies like 6 Balloons (April 6), and Chris Rock and Adam Sandler in The Week Of (April 27).

To make room for new things, some stuff has to go away, back into storage, enter the black hole of deep space, or whatever euphimism you would like to use for movies and series, that you won't be able to access anymore on Netflix. WAAH.

Read Leslie Zemeckis' New Doc Is Perfect for Women's History Month

What are your options? Drink a lot of coffee and watch everything before it goes away. Or, watch what you didn't know they had, because, who knows when you can see it again. You could throw a "bye bye party." Or just note down what's going....like the graphic novel turned vampire flick 30 Days of Night, 4 Batman movies, The Shawshank Redemption, Men Who Stare at Goats (haven't seen the movie, but the book's hilarious), rom com Leap Year, scary movies, horror movies, and of course the Banksy doc.

Check out the list of what's leaving below:

Zara's Yellow Suit Is Taking Over Instagram & the World

                                                                        myfashion_chronicles via Instagram

It's the Zara Effect.  One (or a dozen people) fall in love with an item of theirs, and the next thing you know that item is seen all over the planet, and has become a "must have or die" piece.

The Spain-based retailer seems to know intuitively what women crave. You've probably heard accounts that yellow is kicking Millennial Pink off its pedestal. That yellow is the new black pink for spring. The above Zara suit is a combination of the yellow trend an the Zara effect. Fashionistas from around the world are wearing it on Instagram. They've worn it with heels like My Fashion Chronicles.

                                                   Liseannnoort via Instagram

 Or with black sneakers and a tee like Liseannnort in Amsterdam.

                                                  amber_moore via Instagram

Or in the midwest, paired with booties.  

More fashionistas in Instagram, where to get the suit, looks for less and more after the jump.

DKNY and Donna Karan Are the Latest Luxury Companies to Give Up Fur

Only faux fur in DKNY and Donna Karan's future. The brands are stepping away from using real fur.
-PJ Gach
   Donna Karan A/W 2011

Donna Karan and it's diffusion brand DKNY will no longer be creating coats etc., from real fur. The move was announced during the G-III's  (Donna Karan/DKNY parent compan) 2018 Fourth Quarter and Full Year Fiscal 2018 Earnings Conference.

Donna Karan and DKNY join the company of Gucci, Versace, Michael Kors, Jimmy Choo, Armani, Furla, and Hugo Boss as another luxury brand that is opting to go fur free. 

Read Target's Newest Designer Collab Will Make You Broke in 60 Seconds or Less

In January, San Francisco pledged to be a fur-free city; fur coat and accessory sales would be banned. On March 27, the city ordinance could become law. Norway banned fur farming earlier this year, and there seems to be a movement across Europe, for other countries to follow Norway's lead.

Faux fur, which used to be a relatively inexpensive wardrobe addition, and a fun way to stay on-trend, may just get a price hike to increased demands.

FIAF Presents Screening of Jean Renoir's "French Can Can" Tuesday, March 27 in NYC

 

Jean Renior's 1955  film, French Can Can gets a screening at the French Institute/Alliance Française on March 27, come! Enjoy!
-PJ Gach
Director Jean Renoir's 1955 film, French Can Can starring  Jean Gabin, Françoise Arnoul, María Félix and a cameo of Edith Piaf (le sigh!) will be shown at New York City's French Institute/Alliance Française  as part of their Classics of French Cinema with Olivier Barrot series.

THis is a gorgeous musical performed in French with English subtitles, so you won't get lost trying to figure out what's going on. And you could probably sing along to the songs...I would advise doing that really quietly or your neighbor may elbow you.

After the film, French journalist and academic Olivier Barrot will conduct a 3o minute talk about the history of the movie, its place in the filmic landscape of French culture in the 50s (and beyond) and also discuss its societal reflections. Barrot will be speaking only in French. The talk is open to audiences of both screenings; 4pm and 7:30 pm. 

Read Meet the World's First Woman Tiger Trainer

Stick around after the screenings as there will be a beer and wine reception. Nothing tops a movie like a chat about it over a nice glass of wine or beer.

The screening will be held at the French Institute/Alliance Française Florence Gould Hall, 55 East 59th Street. 

The screening is free for FIAF members, $14 for non-members and $7 for students. To purchase tickets, click here.

To learn more about FIAF, it's membership and its classes and events, please click here.

Kiyonna.com's Spring Dresses RAWK & Your Wallet Will Love Them Too

Get ready for Easter, Passover and fun times with Kiyonna.com
-Sponsored Article
Real women wearing (L to R) Bella Braided Maxi Dress, Essential Wrap Dress  and  Valentina Illusion Dress

 

With spring comes Easter and Kiyonna.com has amazing options no matter how you celebrate. Ranging in women’s sizes from 10-32, Kiyonna specializes in plus size styles that are proudly made in the USA. No matter your shape or size, you will definitely find something fabulous.

For church, the modest Livi Lace Dress for $138.00 is perfect. Designed with delicate lace allover and a feminine flounce hem on the skirt and sleeves, you’ll love the look and comfortable silhouette. If you’re looking for a fun and bright color this Easter, try the Glittering Affair Wrap Dress. This fully functional wrap dress allows for a custom fit and comes in a beautiful metallic royal blue floral lace for $128.00.

The Ciara Cinch Dress in the NEW Indigo Rain Print is also a great option with a timeless design and fun print. This classic dress is sold for $98.00 and can be worn way beyond Easter Sunday. From work days to date nights, you’ll always be covered.

If you’re not one for a dress, but would like to keep it classy, then the best-selling Linden Lace Top for $79.00 is for you. Made with a scalloped neckline and hem, this peplum style will flatter your curves in all the right places. Another great choice would be the Lauren Lace Top, also for $79.00. Featuring romantic lace and statement sleeves, this will be your new favorite blouse.

Of course, not all Easter festivities involve dressing up. Stay stylish and comfy in the Hope Cinch Top for $56.00. This flattering faux wrap design, cinches at the waist and comes in a perfect-for-spring plum.

Trust me, there are way more options on their site, so be sure to browse their entire collection of dresses and separates. I don’t doubt you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for this holiday.

Shop All Dresses

Shop All Separates

Happy Easter!

NYC: Luna Park Opens Saturday, March 24th! Ride All the Rides for $5

Luna Park, Coney Island's legendary amusement park re-opens on March 24th.
-PJ Gach

   Via Luna Park

S0....New York City just had it's fourth (4!!!) Nor'Easter (nooo, climate change isn't real), but Luna Park, Coney Island's famed amusement park is scheduled to open this Saturday, March 24th. The park, located in on the water in Brooklyn, is offering free admission to the park on opening day. Don't get too excited, in order to procure the free admission, one must donate at least $5 to the New York City Mayor's Fund to Advance NYC and Girl Scout Troup 6000.   The Girl Scout troop is a really good thing. It works with young girls living in the shelter system. And you know what else you get for that five dollar donation? FREE RIDES. Yes, I said, FREE FREE RIDES.  ALL THE RIDES!

Read Golden Kingdoms Exhibit at the Met Is Now Open

Saturday, March 24th, the park will be open from 11am to 7pm. If you've ever wanted to ride a wooden rollercoaster, now's your chance to ride the Cyclone. It was built in 1927 and is still going strong.

If you wait until Sunday, March 25th, you'll be able to take part in the traditional egg cream christening. No, no eggs were ever harmed at this event.  If you're part of the first 100 people to show up and meet the ride requirements, you'll ride for free. And you can have your photo taken with Mr. Met

Here's a link to the Luna Park map. And here's a link to a map of Coney Island.

 

Documentary Review: Mable, Mabel, Tiger Trainer

Mabel Stark conquered more than big cats in the early 20^th Century. 
-Gabrielle Leider
    Courtesy of Leslie Zemeckis

I just had the opportunity to watch a brand new documentary about a pioneering woman in an unusual field. It was directed by Leslie Zemeckis, who also directed Behind the Burly Q, an excellent documentary about the glory days of burlesque. I greatly enjoyed that film and thus was very excited to see this new one.

Her new film, Mabel, Mabel, Tiger Trainer and is about Mabel Stark, the first female tiger trainer. Stark became a sensation in the early 20^th century working with big cats under the big top. I understand that today many of us do take a rather different view of so-called “animal acts,” but I put those reservations aside and decided to focus on seeing Mabel through the prism of her times. I was rewarded with the story of a very determined and complicated woman.

Read 5 Doctors: A Bittersweet Tale About Growing Up

Mabel Stark, née Mary Haynie, didn’t come from a circus family, or a family connected to animal training in any way. Born into grinding poverty as the daughter of tobacco sharecroppers who both died young. Stark escaped a sexually abusive stepfather, went on to try nursing, and eventually wound up working in a circus. She soon married the pre-eminent big cat trainer of the day… after breaking up his previous marriage, something she did more for the opportunity to learn the trade and get a chance to become a trainer herself than for love, it would seem. It would be easy to look at her and condemn her for being an opportunist, but it’s hard to imagine a young woman from her background getting anywhere any other way, especially not in the days before women even had the right to vote.

Stark persisted. Eventually divorcing her alcoholic husband, and then marrying several more times, all the while building a brilliant career doing what she loved – working with tigers. She loved her cats, training them with positive reinforcement and rearing cubs by hand. Not that she was spared by them. They remained wild animals, after all, and she suffered many brutal maulings; at least one of which was nearly fatal. But none of that stopped Stark. Her passionate devotion to and love for her tigers survived every injury and every obstacle.
   Courtesy of Leslie Zemeckis

It’s a compelling tale, helped in no small measure by the skills of its narrator, the brilliant Melissa Leo, but the documentary isn’t as fleshed out as much as I might have liked. Leslie Zemeckis seems captivated by the larger story of the world of circus animal trainers and frequently diverges from taking us through Mabel’s life to interviews with other female and male trainers, several of whom were at best tenuously connected to Mabel. While they are absolutely fascinating, and I enjoyed hearing what they had to say,  those ancillary interviews made it difficult to maintain the continuity of the main story. I found myself wishing that Ms. Zemeckis had made two documentaries: one about Mabel and one about the world of big cat trainers. I’d love to see both, frankly, because if there’s one thing Ms. Zemeckis has, it’s the ability to find people with interesting stories and to pack a film with them.

Quibbles aside, however, this is a very worthwhile documentary about a unique and fearless woman whose career might not be one we’d embrace today, but whose grit, independence, and fierce commitment have to resonate strongly nonetheless. Seek this one out. You’ll be glad you did.

Upcoming Screenings:

 

CHICAGO:

WHAT:	Screening of “Mabel, Mabel, Tiger Trainer” followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Leslie Zemeckis, moderated by Director of Special Events, Chicago History Museum, Jessica Trent
WHEN:	Sunday, March 25, 2018 1:10 PM doors open 1:30 PM screening begins 3:00 PM Q&A
WHERE:	Chicago History Museum, 1601 North Clark Street, Chicago, 60614
WHO:	Writer/producer/director Leslie Zemeckis and executive producer Robert Zemeckis

 

NEW YORK

WHAT:	Invitation-only screening of “Mabel, Mabel, Tiger Trainer” followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Leslie Zemeckis, moderated by Susan Rockefeller
WHEN:	Tuesday, March 27, 2018 5:40 PM doors open 6:00 PM screening begins 7:30 PM Q&A
WHERE:	The Celeste Bartos Theater, The Museum of Modern Art 11 West 53rd Street, New York, NY 10019 (Use The Lewis B. and Dorothy Cullman Education and Research Building entrance on 54thStreet between 5th and 6th Avenues)
WHO:	Writer/producer/director Leslie Zemeckis, executive producer Robert Zemeckis, producer Sheri Hellard and Susan Rockefeller

To learn more about the Leslie Zemeckis, and her documentaries, please visit her site.  To learn more about Mabel, Mabel, Tiger Trainer, to watch it online and/or find  a theatre near you, please click here.

Gabrielle is a (very) former aspiring actress whose main claim to fame was a two-word speaking role in a film you never saw. She was also (despite a complete lack of ability) a dancer in the stage show of a band of whom you’ve never heard. (Are we sensing a theme here?) She currently shares her glamorous obscurity with two cats and a terrier who is somehow less neurotic than either of them.

Britney Spears Is the New Face of Kenzo

Britney Spears, singer and Las Vegas staple is the new face of Kenzo.
-PJ Gach
   Via Instagram

Britney Spears is back in the public eye bigger than before, bitches! The singer whose line of perfumes does insanely well, (23 fragrances with a total sales of $4.8 billion dollars in revenue), has video games, a Vegas cabaret show, lingerie line, and now is the face of Kenzo's Collection Memento 2. the advertising campaign was shot by Peter Lindbergh.
                                                  Via Instagram

The campaign, and the accompanying collaboration #KENZOLOVESBRITNEY has men's and women's clothing. Comprised of denim, tees, bags and sweatshirts, the clothing's totally appropriate for  middle schoolers...that's if the middle schooler wants to drop $160 for a tee.
Here are some of the images of Britney you can find in her own and Kenzo's Instagram accounts.
                                                   Via Instagram

                                                    Via Instagram
Just what we need; sleezy, over priced clubwear influenced by the late 90s. Right? BTW, the tiger print trench,  lace up boots and bikini bottoms aren't on the site.
 Via Kenzo


But you know what's really scary? No, it's not the overpriced tees or backpacks, not it's not the thought of clubwear that shouldn't exist, take a look at the above photo. Take a good look. Does that look like Britney to you? Is it her? Is it a fembot? Has Britney Spears pulled a Renee Zellweger? Look, I don't have an issue with plastic surgery. If it makes you feel better, if it improves your looks, go for it. Heck, if I could afford it, I'd get my shopping list done...but. The point is, when you become utterly unrecognizeable, that's scary.  That's really scary.

Want to get really scared? Watch the Kenzo/Britney promotional video below:

 

 

Oscar Hairstyles: Lupita Nyong'o's Hairstyle Was Based on a Traditional Rwandan Hairstyle--How to Do it at Home!

The Black Panther star wore Versace and a gorgeous smile at the 90th Academy Awards.
-PJ Gach
When TV commenters saw Lupita Nyong'o on the red carpet at the 90th Academy Awards, they were initially speechless and they couldn't find the proper adjective because she STUNNED everyone. Okay, Nyong'o always rocks the red carpet. At every award show. It was the combination of the golden chain metal custom Atelier Versace gown, her brilliant smile and her fabulous hairstyle that became an immediate iconic look.

Read: Jimmy Kimmel, Helen Mirren and a Jet Ski!

Nyong'o's updo had golden threads woven through her strands. It was based on a traditional Amasunzu Rwandan style. Celebrity hairstylist Vernon François worked with Nyong'o on her look. He stated, "“Lupita’s look was inspired by images of Amasunzu hairstyles, which are traditional to Rwandan culture. We wanted something clean and sculpted to accent her dress and showoff the neckline.”

How he did it:

To recreate Lupita’s look, Vernon washed her hair with the Vernon François Pure~Fro Shampoo and Pure~Fro Conditioner which contains keratin to help the hair retain moisture.
Vernon then prepped Lupita’s hair with the Mist~Nourishing Water & Scalp Nourish~Ment Braids and Locs Spray to soothe and protect strands before blow-drying with a round brush.

Next, Vernon smoothed her ends using a flat iron, leaving roots authentic. Using only his hands, Vernon molded her hair to create the clean, contoured structure and setting with hairspray.

To complete the look, Vernon weaved a gold thread through her hair using a classic stich technique for a touch of glamour & shine. 

^{Photos 1, 2, 3, 4}

16 Out of 20 Academy Award Nominees Side-Stepped Ryan Seacrest at the Oscars Red Carpet.

Apparently, 16 Oscar nominees didn't see Ryan Seacrest at the Academy Awards red carpet pre-show.
-PJ Gach
   Via Instagram
You know how when you see someone you don't like at a party, you go "temporarily blind," you just don't see them, you ignore them and pretend they're not there. Yeah, well that's what happened to Ryan Seacrest at the Oscars pre-show. E!'s red carpet coverage has been an award show staple for years. And Ryan Seacrest has always been able to snag anyone and everyone on the red carpet. Well, not this year. Since sexual harrassment allegations have surfaced against Seacrest by his former stylist, there's been a lot of speculation on who would talk to him before the Academy Awards, and who would not. Jennifer Lawrence publically stated she wasn't sure what she would do.

Seacrest did speak with Taraji P. Henson, Common, Allison Janney, Mary J. Blige, Christopher Plummer, Richard Jenkins, and Rita Moreno. Stopping by to give moral support was his Live! co-host Kelly Ripa and her husband Mark Conseulos. 

Read Helen Mirren and a Jet Ski Onstage at the Oscars

However, most of the awards pre-show was centered on Giuliana Ranic and co-host MTV news correspondent Josh Horowitz, and E! executive editor Kristin Dos Santos sitting around a table and commenting on celebrities ensembles as they sat at the Roosevelt Hotel. According to the Daily Mail, 16 out of the 20 Academy Award nominees chatted with other hosts, and stayed away from Seacrest.

The audience and Rancic and company saw and commented on Lupita Nyong'o, Emily Blunt, Nicole Kidman, Allison Williams and other stars outfits. They talked trends and dithered amongst themselves. Seacrest was barely heard from during most of the pre-show.

At one point, the crew discovered that he had been quietly lying down (!) in the studio while they were talking best dressed of the night. In all the years that E! and Seacrest has covered award show after award show, he barely had a moment to breathe, much less sit, and now this year,  he was lying down on the floor at the Roosevelt studio.

E! Entertainment has stood by Seacrest throughout the allegations. As has Kelly Ripa. But should they have? 

What do you think?

Jimmy Kimmel Offers a Jet Ski to Shortest Oscar Speech; Helen Mirren Models Instage with It!

Jimmy Kimmel offered a jet ski to any winner who was quick and fast with their acceptance speech.
-PJ Gach
Possibly one of the best moments, in an evening packed with best moments at the 90th Academy Awards was when host Jimmy Kimmel offered a jet ski to any Oscar winner who excelled in brevity when it came to their acceptance speech.

Read Get Emma Stone's Oscar Beauty--Step-by-Step Tutorial

Kimmel stated, "if you do win an Oscar tonight....Speak from the heart, we want passion, you have an opportunity, a platform, remind millions of people about important things...do whatever you want, but that said, this is a really long show, so here's what we're gonna do. Not saying you shouldn't give a long speech, but whoever gives the shortest speech tonight, will go home with...Johnny tell them what they'll win..."

And with that, an announcer tells the audience the winner takes home a jet ski.  The curtain goes up, and we see Helen Mirren standing next to the jet ski. Like one of the models on a TV game show!


Helen Freaking Mirren! Oh, so excellent! Clike play below to see the joke.

And the winner of the Jet Ski was Mark Bridges. He won the costume design Oscar for his work on the movie Phantom Thread.

Photos via Youtube.

Oscar Beauty: Step-by-Step Directions on How to Get Emma Stone's Academy Awards Gorgeous Look

Emma Stone's outfit is giving me a case of the wants. Her skin is glowing from Kiehl's new skin care.
-PJ Gach

Emma Stone rocked a luscious satin pantsuit, and dayum, I want it. Want it. Didn't she look fabulous presenting at the Oscars, yes, she did! Her red carpet makeup look was created by celebrity makeup artist Rachel Goodwin. Stone's beauty regimen started the night before with Kiehl’s Ginger Leaf & Hibiscus Firming Mask to prep her skin overnight, and Kiehl’s Instant Renewal Concentrate Mask for dewy, glowy skin for the Academy Awards. 

And Stone, that lucky duck, got a  chance to preview Kiehl's Glow Formula Skin Hydrator. This glowy, illuminating hydrator will be out soon. Go ahead, and pre-order now, you'll beat the crowds.  For makeup, Goodwin used Nars. The brand's palette and quality is perfect for red carpet moments.

About the inspiration, Goodwin stated, "This was a power blush moment! I was inspired by the unabashedly high glamour and powerful feeling of the late 70’s, early 80’s - a time when women wore strong, modern looks. I mirrored the pink color blocking in Emma’s suit and applied the Wanted Cheek Palette high on the cheeks, blending up toward the eye."

SKIN: Today, I began by prepping the skin using Kiehl’s NEW Instant Renewal Concentrate Mask. I applied Kiehls Lip Balm #1 to moisturize the lips, then a small amount of Kiehls Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado to her under eyes.  

I mixed the NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation in “Gobi” with Kiehls NEW Glow Formula Skin Hydrator (available for pre-order), which I was able to try out before it comes out in May. I applied the blend starting in the center of the face with a foundation brush. Then, I slowly blended it toward the outside of the face and down the neck using a Beauty Blender. I then used NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in “Chantilly” to any blemishes and under the eyes.

 

I applied NARS Laguna Bronzing Powder with a contour brush and applying it to the hollows of the cheekbones, forehead and jawline to add dimension to the face. I then applied “Kingpen” and “Buzzed” from the NARS Wanted 1 Cheek Palette to the apples of the cheeks and blended outward to the cheekbones. Finally, I added a small amount of RMS Beauty Living Luminizer to the high points of the cheeks. 

BROWS: I combed the brows back using a spooly and then applied Brow Defining Cream in “Tanami” using an angled eyebrow brush. I combed through the brows one more time to make them look natural, and then applied a clear brow gel to set the hairs in place. 

EYES: Using NARS Wanted Eyeshadow Palette in “Shadow Hill,” applied to the crease and blended it close to the brow. Next, I used Wanted “Temptress” on the lid and blended into the crease. Then, I brought it under the lower lash line and smoked it out using a small brush. I used NARS Velvet Shadow Stick in “Glénan” on the lid, and then I brought “Wicked Game” from the Wanted palette over the lid as well. Using a small angled brush, I applied NARS Dual-Intensity Eye Shadow in “Arcturus” as eyeliner. After the eye shadow was complete, I simply curled the lashes at the root, and applied NARS Audacious Mascara in Black Moon. 

LIPS: I applied NARS Precision Lip Liner in “Lérins” to keep the lipstick from moving throughout the night. Next, I buffed it into the lips using a Q-tip, and then applied NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in “Let’s Go Crazy.”  Finally, I used NARS Lip Gloss in “Angelika” to finish off the look. 

 Photo credits 1, 2, 3

Hell in a Bucket by Ramiro Davaro-Comas at Lucas Lucas

Artist, illustrator and activist Ramiro Davaro-Comas new show, "Hell in a Bucket" is at New York City's Lucas Lucas.
-PJ Gach
Artist, illustrator and activist Ramiro Davaro-Comas has over  40 original illustrations and cut-out installation created on-site that are available for public viewing and of course, sale at the Lucas Lucas: A New Gallery and Concept Space in Brooklyn.
                                                The Incredible Bernie by Davaro-Comas

Davaros-Comas is a Brooklynite by way of Argentina. He paints murals, prints books and zines. His work is influenced by the skateboard culture, comic books, travel and animation. His work has been shown in galleries throughout Europe and America. His show runs until April 1st. To learn more about the gallery, directions and hours, please visit their site.

To learn more about Davaros-Comas and see his other works, please visit his site.

Paris Fashion Week: Hermès Fall Winter 2018

Hermès shows their roots at Paris Fashion Week.
-PJ Gach

  Courtesy BoF

Normally I don't cover Paris Fashion Week. Yes, I do get invites, but gosh...plane fare, hotels, etc., etc., costs add up and up.  For the most part, styles that are shown in Paris, generally trickle over to the states in a year (if we're lucky).  That is, unless the item is worn by Rihanna. Then, the Rihanna Effect occurs, and everyone wants a pair of YSL Swarovski covered boots. When I saw the photos of Hermès fall/winter 2018 show, I swooned. After I stopped drooling over the laptop, I thought I'd write a love letter quick review based on the photos. Which, were taken by the Indigital for Business of Fashion.

I've always adored, loved, fan, pick the adjective you want for Hermès.  I think I was 11 or 12, when I got my first bottle of Calèche. I felt very sophisticated wearing it. As an adult, I wore Voyage d'Hermès  as soon as it came out.As a some-time rider, their equestrian pieces (that's how they started) have made me green with envy. I enjoy the quirky chicness of their scarves and oh, well, salivate thinking about their fashion.

Their fall view is tons of buttery soft leather in black, cream, acid green, red, pumpkin and brown shades. Delciously tailored, with exquisite details. 
 Leather pants and jackets are meticulously quilted, sweaters have contrast ribbing that speaks volumes, pants and dresses neither overwhelm nor embarrass the wearer.

Le sigh. Le sigh.

Leather pants have been slowly making a comeback. Renewed interest in 80s styles; whether it's from TV shows like The Goldbergs or G.L.O.W, but appliqued bat wing sweaters and colored leather anything have been fast disappearing from vintage and thrift stores alike. Athleisure, contrary to some fashion pundits, is a trend that will be here for a bit. Really, what woman is going to give up fashions that are comfortable and sexy at the same time?

Hermès raises athleisure wear to the 9th degree with their interpretation of anoraks and chunky sweaters.   The clothing is on-point and visually exciting.

What does the Orange Pin Mean and Ryan Seacrest at the Oscars Tonight

Look for actors (and actresses) to wear orange pins tonight at the Academy Awards.
-PJ Gach
                                                       Via E! Entertainment

While there hasn’t been an official color for the #MeToo or Time’s Up campaigns for tonight’s Oscars, celebrities will be wearing a touch of orange. They’ll be sporting the official Wear Orange to Prevent Gun Violence pin from the Everytown for Gun Safety advocacy group. Why orange? According to the We Wear Orange advocacy group, “Orange is the color that Hadiya Pendleton’s friends wore in her honor when she was shot and killed in Chicago at the age of 15 — just one week after performing at President Obama’s 2nd inaugural parade in 2013.”

Read Fashion Isn't Action on the Red Carpet  
   Via Everytown for Gun Safety

The two groups are working together to raise awareness about gun violence. Want your own pin? You can pick up a pack of three for $15 from Everytown for Gun Safety.

And, according to People, some celebrities will also be wearing the black and white Time’s Up badge. Will celebrities color coordinate their badges with their ensembles? We’ll find out later tonight.

And as for Ryan Seacrest of E!, doing his typical pre-show red carpet schtick, despite serious allegations from his former stylist concerning sexual harassment, he will be there interviewing Academy Award nominees and celebrities attending the Oscars on what, or should we say who they’re wearing. Tarana Burke, founder of the #MeToo movement spoke exclusively on this issue to Variety.  When asked about Seacrest working the red carpet, Burke stated, “They really shouldn’t send him [to the Oscars]. We shouldn’t have to make those choices of, ‘Do we, or don’t we?'”

However, there looks to be a bright side to this as Access Hollywood’s hosts Scott Evans and Kit Hoover are being prepped to ask celebrities they stop, if they want to talk to Seacrest! That’s according to a piece in Page Six where they talked to Rob Silverstein, executive producer of the show.

Melissa Myers was interviewed by Michael Smerconish Saturday morning on his eponymously named show on CNN. During the introduction, he dubbed her “The Princess of the Red Carpet.” Smerconish asked Rivers if she thought anyone would confront Seacrest at the show. She stated, “No. I don’t think anyone is going to confront anyone. There seems to be a groundswell of love and support for Ryan right now. So, I don’t see it as being anything that’s going to be some crazy TV confrontational moment.”

According to an article about the situation in the Daily Mail, some celebrities’ publicists have warned them to skip over Seacrest and conduct red carpet interviews with other outlets. The article also mentioned that Jennifer Lawrence has yet to decide whether or not she’ll speak to the E! host, Kelly Ripa morning co-host and the other thousand and one job titles that Ryan Seacrest has. Which begs the question; was he cloned? The man is everywhere.

Whatever happens or doesn’t happen tonight, the Oscars pre-show will be very, very entertaining. Get that popcorn and cocktails ready before the fireworks begin tonight. Better yet, create a Seacrest drinking game.

E! and Ryan pre-show coverage starts at 5 pm ET/PT.

 

The New York City International Film Festival Is the Best Cultural Bargain in Town

The New York City Film Festival kicks off Monday, March 5th. Grab a ticket now.
-PJ Gach
This is the ninth year of the New York City International Film Festival. 32 films (short and long) will be featured in 5 days at various locations throughout New York City. Whether you're a lover of animation, drama, or short films, the NYCIFF will have a movie that you could fall in love with.

Read: The Jergens Skin Care Giveaway Is Ending Soon--Don't Forget to Enter

Opening night, Monday, March 5th kicks off at the The Dolby Theater & Screening Room NYC on 6th Avenue with two films: The Girl Who Invented Kissing starring Vincent Piazza, Dash Mihok, Suki Waterhouse, and Luke Wilson. Mihok (Showtime’s Ray Donovan, Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet) will be making a personal appearance at the screening. The second is the documentary Wasted Talent will be presented by director Steve Stanulis starring Lillo Brancato (Bronx Tale, HBO's The Sopranos).

After the screening, audience members are invited to a question an answer session with the actor and director. 

Feature films that will be showcased during the film festival are:

FEATURE FILMS BY TITLE:

* DISOLVED: A Game of Truth = OPENING GALA MARCH 5 @ 5.20PM
* WASTED TALENT – Documentry =OPENING GALA MARCH 5 @6.30PM
* THE GIRL WHO INVENTED KISSING = PENING GALA MARCH 5 @ 8PM

*MORTAL =DOLBY THEATRE MARCH 8 @ 6PM
* PENTIMENTO = DOLBY MARCH 8 @ 8PM

* POISONING PARADISE – Documentary MARCH 9 @ DGA THEATRE

* DEVILS COVE – Drama
* THE ODDS – Horror
* SECRETS OF A FROZEN OCEAN – Documentary
* CONSOLATION
* THE SISTERHOOD
* DINKHELLER – Documentary
* COLLUSION
*POINT OF VIEW 

Read 5 Doctors Is a Sweet Dramedy About Adulting

Short films that will be showcased are:

* BOOKED
* THE WORD
* FAITH
* MILLENNIAL MOB FILM
* DANCING WHEELS
* SIGNS FROM ABOVE
* RORY ROMANTIC
* MANN & QUINN
* SMACK
* FUCK THE BITCHT!?
* REX
* WHITE LIES
* THE SINGER
* CAFFE CERUTTI
* THE PLEASURE OF BEING SERVED
* Mann & QUINN
PLANET TOBLER (animated)  

The NYCIFF will close with a VIP reception and special screening of Keely Shaye Smith and Pierce Brosnan’s Poisoning Paradise, followed by a Q&A with the creators and awards reception honoring actress Natali Yura, with the Rising Star Award, and philanthropist, Jean Shafiroff, with the Philanthropic Award for Art, Culture & Film. 

Tickets to the NYCIFF start at $10. Tickets for the opening night gala are $25, and the premium package is $300.

To purchase tickets and to find out more about the NYCIFF and its foundation, please visit their site.

Ticket sales go to the NCIFF's Foundation of the Arts, which provides scholarships to filmmakers throughout the world.

 

Hunter Is Target's Latest Designer Collaboration

Hunter X Targert hits stores April 14th---Get ready to fight over one of the Royal Family's favorite brands.
-PJ Gach


Hunter, the UK brand whose boots have become a festival must-have has just announced their new capsule collection for Target. The collection will have over 300 pieces, and is budget friendly. Most items with be priced under $30, the highest priced items are $80, I'm assuming that will be for the boots. The classic Hunter Wellington starts at $150, so this is a bargain price for boots that are worn by Queen Elizabeth, Prince Harry,  Meghan Markle,Kate Moss, Alexa Chung and most of the people who hit Glastobury.

Read Don't Forget to Enter the Jergens Skin Care Giveaway

Hunter has done limited edition collaborations with Jimmy Choo and Isamaya French in the past. What will be in Target is going to be a very eagerly anticipated collection by celebrity style, royal family style and style lovers and bargain hunters.

Alasdair Willis, Hunter's creative director stated in a press release, the inspiration behind the collaborative collection was, "As a brand, we have such a strong connection to festivals. Kate Moss wearing her Hunter boots to Glastonbury in 2005 was a defining moment for the brand. Our boots, outerwear and backpacks are now worn at festivals across the globe, come rain or shine. Recognizing our shared spirit of adventure, getting outdoors and appeal to the whole family, we wanted to create a collection that celebrates that, whether that be a summer gathering in the backyard, weekends away or at a music festival."

And who can forget the iconic photo of Princess Diana and Prince Charles in one of their first photos together after announcing their engagement.

You'll be able to royally (hee hee) outfit the entire family in Hunter boots, bags and jackets as sizes range XS-3X for women, S-XXL for men and 18M-XL for kids and toddlers.

The Hunter for Target collection debuts April 14th in stores and online.

Photo credits 1, 2, 3, 4

Movie Review: 5 Doctors

5 Doctors is a heartfelt dramedy about old friends and the pitfalls of young adulthood. 
-Ben Rosenthal
   Courtesy Annie Jeeves/Team Cinematic Red

Back in high school, all Spencer Kaminsky needed was his signature wink and salute to make him a star.  In the real world, things are a little different.  Now a decade has passed since the glory days and he’s just another struggling actor in L.A., and it’s killing him … or so he thinks. Plagued with an absurd number of ambiguous symptoms, and anxiously awaiting news on a crucial audition, Spencer is succumbing to his hypochondriac mindset and returning home for a single day to visit his five childhood doctors. But he gets more than he bargained for when he’s forced to confront the past he tried to leave behind and realizes that things might not be quite as he remembered.

Read Enter to Win the Jergens Skin Care Giveaway

5 Doctors is the first feature film by writing/directing duo Max Azulay and Matt Porter, with an additional writing credit from freshman screenwriter Phil Primason. Azulay and Porter also play the film’s two lead characters, respectively starring as childhood best friends Spencer Kaminsky and Jay Feldman, who lost touch over the years after Kaminsky left their hometown in upstate New York to pursue his acting career. Presumably semi-autobiographical, the onscreen chemistry between the two is undeniable as Azulay and Porter actually grew up together and Alzulay’s real-life sister even plays her onscreen counterpart, appearing as Spencer’s troubled sister, Jo.

 

While 5 Doctors centers around Azulay’s character, the film is very much about Spencer and Jay as a pair and how their reunion sets into motion the changes they’ve both desperately been looking for in their lives. Consequently, the two share almost equal screen time and the film really begins when Jay picks Spencer up at their hometown train station to embark on both their literal and figurative journeys together.  Working as a photography teacher at the local high school, the reserved and sheepishly lovable Jay serves as the perfect counterpoint to Spencer’s brash, egotistical demeanor.  Struggling to win the heart of fellow school teacher Lisa and having to remind even his younger students to refer to him as Mr. Feldman rather than his first name, Jay is the film’s unassuming underdog you can’t help but root for.
   Courtesy Annie Jeeves/Team Cinematic Red

Rounding out the cast is a slew of vaguely familiar faces, most notably Bobby Moynihan of Saturday Night Live fame, all of whom play mostly bit parts to highlight the progression of the two lead’s respective arcs.  The titular five doctors subsequently play a relatively minor role in the narrative, serving more often than not to merely push to plot forward and occasionally provide some paternal wisdom along the way.  That’s not to say that these interactions are entirely superfluous.  Some of the film’s most memorable scenes revolve around the individual reactions of Spencer’s doctors to his WebMD-fueled paranoia.  But given the film’s title, they ultimately take more of a backseat in the story than one would expect.

Read: Comedians Talking About Poop In a Movie---Really!

In the end, 5 Doctors is a deeply relatable and genuine look at the struggles of navigating adulthood and the enduring bond of childhood confidants.  Driven by authentic performances and well-paced writing, this understated dramedy hits most of the right chords and is a poignant reminder that life isn’t always what it seems.

5 Doctors is available on VOD & digital platforms nationwide and has an overall runtime of 1 hour 32 minutes.