By: Perriann Rodriguez
From the beginning of time, women have cared for their hair. As far back as 4000-300 B.C. Egyptian women and even men are shown with various wigs and elaborate hair styles. Hair is a contributing factor to ones confidence and serenity. Our culture strongly identifies femininity with a thick, lustrous head of hair. Images of full bodied, shining hair are synonymous with female attributes, sexuality, desirability and vigor. Thinning, dry, lusterless hair is identified with illness, old age, and poverty.
Every generation goes thru more and more transformations and capitalizes on current trends of Hair Styles. The big Hair Style trend these days is in full swing in Europe and is just starting to spread in the United States. It is the trend of Hair Extensions. Hair extensions involve the attachment of human or synthetic hair to your existing hair to create a more full or long look immediately. Hair extensions can add instant body, length to your look and can also help with hair thinning and hair loss situations.
There are many different methods of hair extensions on the market today, some good, some not so good. Mark Sharp, co-founder and creative director of Mark Glenn Hair Enhancement of London, England and Glenn Kinsey, co-founder and managing director have taken revolutionary steps in developing a fiber hair extension method that not only doesn’t damage the existing hair but can even improve the condition of the hair. They have transformed the lives of women who suffer from varying degrees of hair loss caused by conditions such as alopecia, trichotillomania, genetic factors, stress and post-operative trauma.
The Mark Glenn extensions, commonly known as MG extensions, use no glues, bonding solutions, threads, weaves, injections, and nothing is stuck on the head. They are attached using a very fine braid. A small section of existing hair is split into two. The fiber hair is also split into two to make the braid and is finally wrapped around the base of the hair, protecting it. The fiber is then "sealed on itself" using a heat tool (which is no hotter than a typical pair of curling tongs or crimpers). This creates a tiny plastic seal. It's important to point out that during this process, your own hair is safely "cocooned" inside the fiber so it doesn't come into direct contact with any heat. Therefore, your own hair stays in perfect condition. For hair loss or thinning problems, the extensions are applied with non-allergic mesh and the fiber hair is woven thru the mesh to create the look.
Glenn Kinsey of Mark Glenn Hair Enhancement has joined us today for a brief question and answer session on their fiber hair extensions.
Welcome Glenn and thank you for joining us today! We have a few questions for you about your wonderful hair extensions.
Q: I understand that you and Mark have previously worked with human hair extensions. Why did you switch to synthetic fiber extensions?
A: Several reasons:
1. Weight - human hair is twice the weight of fiber and therefore feels “heavy” on the head – at its worst, this increased weight and stress on the hair can cause “traction alopecia”. In addition, human hair is porous – it soaks up water – which can significantly increase the weight when wet.
2. Tangle – human hair tends to “matt” and “tangle” – this is because the surface of human hair has little “spines” on it, that look like roof tiles under a microscope. Because this “alien” hair isn’t being conditioned by the natural oils that condition your own hair, these “spines” tend to “stick out” and tangle up with the other hairs on your head. Consequently, you do need to use quite intensive conditioners to keep the hair in good condition. Fiber, however, has a smooth surface and therefore is less likely to tangle.
3. Glue - human hair extensions are typically applied with glue and removed with acetone – a recipe for damage, the results of which we regularly see in our studio. Our method doesn’t use any chemicals.
4. Colour match - a stylist using human hair would typically take a swatch of the client’s hair and send it to a human hair supplier who would then pick the closest colour from a specific range. We actually colour-blend our hair with the client in front of us – taking into account all the different subtle shade shifts that may exist in their hair – to get an absolutely perfect match
5. Ethics – there’s a great deal of mystery surrounding the origins of human hair used in extensions and it’s very difficult to track the exact source. A common source for top quality hair is from female Russian prisoners, for example
6. Look and feel – fiber looks and feels just like real hair but is much kinder to the hair and is much easier to style and take care of.
Q: What percentage of your clients gets hair extensions for hair loss issues versus fashion?
A: The split is approximately 50/50
Q: You have developed your own branded method (MG extensions) for applying fiber extensions. What is unique about your method in comparison to other methods available? Do you plan to patent your application method?
A: We have a proprietary technique for working with female hair loss, for which clients visit us from all over the world. For fashion purposes, we’ve amalgamated several different methods and added our own unique adaptations to create a technique that creates a beautiful look
Q: Why do you feel that fiber extensions are superior to human hair extensions? Could you apply human hair extensions using your method if a client really preferred human hair?
A: See above. Apart from using pliers and a metal clip (which is great fun through airport metal detectors and very uncomfortable when you lay your head on a pillow!) the only way to apply human hair is with glue.
Q: What training and education is involved for stylists doing MG extensions?
A: We work in teams of two people – a “lead” and an “assist”. Team members start out as an “assist” and then, after about 12 to 24 months, progress up to a “lead”. “Leads” are the ones that direct the work. Our training is very intensive and “on the job” to allow team members to experience the bewildering array of both styles and techniques, as well as the differing types of hair loss they may encounter.
Q: What are the legal requirements in England for doing hair extensions?
A: Sadly, there are no specific legal requirements for hair extensions over and above those for a normal hair salon.
Q: What are the minimum requirements for someone wanting hair extensions? Length of hair? Stable hair loss? Have you turned down clients for hair extensions and why?
A: We regularly turn away clients no matter how much they want hair extensions, if we don’t think it’s going to look sensational! For fashion work, the main reason is length of existing hair – for the best results, the clients hair needs to be at least 4 to 6 inches long. This is because you need existing hair to conceal where the extensions are attached. For our clients with hair loss, there can be a whole range of reasons, from too little existing hair to hair loss that hasn’t “stabilized”.
Q: There are some hair extensionists that don’t recommend getting fiber extensions because of esthetic reasons. Can you describe the quality of the fiber hair, where it is made and why these recommendations are not valid?
A: We only use a beautiful, hand-made fiber that is absolutely undetectable from the real thing in look, feel and behavior. It’s actually more expensive than some human hair! Cheap fiber is truly awful, akin to “Barbie-doll” hair. You only tend to spot bad extensions – we pride ourselves on the fact that, in general, no-one even suspects our clients have extensions and we have a large number of celebrity clients that, in some cases, even the media haven’t spotted that their hair isn’t their own!
Q: You mention on your website, http://www.markglenn.com that the fiber extensions do not damage your hair and can even improve the condition of your hair. Can you explain how they can improve the condition of your hair?
A: First of all, we don’t use any chemicals. Secondly, your own hair is “cocooned” and protected inside the extension and continues to grow as normal. Thirdly, when the extensions are removed, they just slide off your hair leaving no mess or residue. Because your hair has been protected in this way over a few months, the condition of your own hair often improves.
Q: What is the maintenance schedule for fashion and hair loss fiber extensions? What happens if you do not follow the maintenance schedule?
A: For fashion, you’d need to either remove the extensions after three months or have them removed and replaced. Initially, the extensions are attached at the base of your hair. However, your hair will grow at around half an inch a month so the extensions start to grow down your own hair. If you leave it longer than 3 months, there’s a risk that the newly grown hair above the extension may start to matt and tangle and, in the worst-case scenario, dreadlock. For hair loss, the particular technique we use demands that clients visit us every six weeks for similar reasons – the “mesh” can start to feel a little loose if it’s left for much longer than 6 weeks.
Q: If someone has very thick hair and wants only to lengthen it, why wouldn’t you just apply the extensions to the ends of the hair, instead of at the roots?
A: Because you’d see a “bump” where the extension is attached.
Q: Can you treat fiber extensions the same as your own hair? I.E. shampooing, conditioning, curling, brushing, etc
A: Yes – wash it as normal, blow dry, curl, condition, brush – just like the real thing. And because the fiber is actually non-porous, you don’t need to use expensive products on the hair, e.g. conditioners, because they’ll have no effect on the extension hair itself. The only thing you have to avoid is direct, sustained heat e.g. hot-iron straighteners etc. Rollers etc. are fine.
Q: Are there any restrictions? Can you color or perm the fibre extensions?
A: You can’t perm the extensions but you wouldn’t need to – you can achieve the same look using rollers, for instance. Colour has no effect on the extension hair, again, because it’s non-porous. This is great for clients who continue to have their “roots” done, in the knowledge that the colour won’t affect the extension hair.
Q: On an annual basis, what would a typical client pay for Fashion and Hair Loss Fiber extensions including maintenance schedules? Are the majority of the costs associated with cost of the materials or the labor?
A: Costs do vary from head to head and style to style. Since we have two people working on a client’s head at the same time, cost is predominantly based on the amount of time it takes with each particular client. On average, a fashion client would pay around GBP £1,500.00 per year and a hair loss client, around twice as much. And bear in mind that you don’t need to visit a hairdresser since we take care of all this during appointments.
Q: Your Hair Loss fiber extensions qualify for funding from medical plans in England. Did you have to go thru a certification process for this funding? Have any of your clients outside England received payment from medical plans in their country?
A: Because of the way the UK health system works (which is funded by the Government) it very much depends on the attitude of local health authorities rather than a specific “test”. Some health authorities are happy to fund their patients, whereas others are not, preferring the cheaper option of providing wigs. We’ve yet to have someone from outside the UK who’s funded by a health plan etc.
Q: Do you plan to offer training to stylists outside your salon so that other salons in the world can offer MG Extensions?
A: Not at present, although it’s something we may consider in the future.
Q: Are there reputable salons in the US that you would recommend?
A: Since the majority of our techniques were developed in-house and are therefore unique to us, it’s unlikely you’d find anyone locally who does things in quite the same way. The fact that, currently, we have clients that visit us from 14 different countries, seems to confirm this. I so wish I could recommend others, but we simply haven’t yet come across anyone who provides a similar result to a similar standard
Thank you very much Glenn for your valuable input!! For additional information about Mark Glenn Hair Extensions, visit their website located at http://markglenn.com
About the author:
Perriann Rodriguez is the founder of http://www.hairresources.com/ and has published hundreds of articles in magazines, newspapers and trade journals. She is listed in the US Register of American Writers and the 2004 Who's Who of Executives and Professionals.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Never Leave Women Alone in a Shoe Store
By: Diana Claire
Shoes and women are two combination of style and fashion. They are always be together in happy and sad. That’s why never leave women in shoes store, they might buy any shoes they see. Eventhough, there are some women who are fussy about their shoes, and unsatisfied with shoes they have.
There are also women who looks only for comfort when buying shoes. Having comfortable shoe can really take them everywhere without hurting their feet. Meanwhile, others are particular about the style and fit. Casual shoes, walking shoes, designer shoes and bridal shoes - the list is endless!
In every moment of time, shoes play significant role in women’s world. The shoes come in an exciting array of colors and designs. So, women will never get bored with the shoes they are going to buy.
Here are some shoes collections that some women have. For those who likes to go to the ballroom might have collection of dance shoes. Meanwhile, those who likes sport might own bowling shoes and walking shoes, and athletic shoes. Women is asked to be careful when buying sports shoes because it play no small role in the performance of the sportsman. Take a walk though the shoes store.
Above all that, when you are doing other activtie there are different womens shoes for various occasions. Let say you can have the classic black or neutral shaded pump for formal wear, strappy sandals or sexy shoes for the evening out, casual shoes that go best with your jeans and beach shoes.
When you buy shoes, choose shoes that work well with your dress, its color, look and hemline. This can go a long way in enhancing your overall appearance. Ill-fitting shoes can cause corns, calluses and blisters and even lead to foot and heel problems.
Special advice for pregnant women must take care of their feet by going in for safe and comfortable pump shoes. Pumps are lightweight and strapless shoes that can be easily slipped into.
About the author:
Diana Claire lifelong for footwear led her became footwear reviewer. Visit http://www.discount-shoes.info/ and http://www.shoes-purse.info/ for more info.
Shoes and women are two combination of style and fashion. They are always be together in happy and sad. That’s why never leave women in shoes store, they might buy any shoes they see. Eventhough, there are some women who are fussy about their shoes, and unsatisfied with shoes they have.
There are also women who looks only for comfort when buying shoes. Having comfortable shoe can really take them everywhere without hurting their feet. Meanwhile, others are particular about the style and fit. Casual shoes, walking shoes, designer shoes and bridal shoes - the list is endless!
In every moment of time, shoes play significant role in women’s world. The shoes come in an exciting array of colors and designs. So, women will never get bored with the shoes they are going to buy.
Here are some shoes collections that some women have. For those who likes to go to the ballroom might have collection of dance shoes. Meanwhile, those who likes sport might own bowling shoes and walking shoes, and athletic shoes. Women is asked to be careful when buying sports shoes because it play no small role in the performance of the sportsman. Take a walk though the shoes store.
Above all that, when you are doing other activtie there are different womens shoes for various occasions. Let say you can have the classic black or neutral shaded pump for formal wear, strappy sandals or sexy shoes for the evening out, casual shoes that go best with your jeans and beach shoes.
When you buy shoes, choose shoes that work well with your dress, its color, look and hemline. This can go a long way in enhancing your overall appearance. Ill-fitting shoes can cause corns, calluses and blisters and even lead to foot and heel problems.
Special advice for pregnant women must take care of their feet by going in for safe and comfortable pump shoes. Pumps are lightweight and strapless shoes that can be easily slipped into.
About the author:
Diana Claire lifelong for footwear led her became footwear reviewer. Visit http://www.discount-shoes.info/ and http://www.shoes-purse.info/ for more info.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Daily Fashionistas Must-Read: How to Have Style by Isaac Mizrahi
Every once in a while I go past a bargain book outlet, and I find a hidden gem. Yesterday, I stopped by a local bookstore. While I was browsing, I came across a publication from one of the most influential designers in the history of fashion, Isaac Mizrahi.
This style bible will help you be "30-70% more stylish" according to Isaac himself.
Are you designer that needs inspiration? Are you a fashion intern craving more and more information? Are you simply a style maverick that wants another secret weapon?
Truly, there is no one who can not benefit from How to Have Style.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Daily Fashionistas Must-Read of the Week: Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me
Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me
by Paula Begoun & Bryan Barron
by Paula Begoun & Bryan BarronEvery fashionista needs beautiful skin, and the products you put on your skin every day have play a large role in the health of your skin. Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me is the purest look at the cosmetics industry since the beginning of time. Paula Begoun helps you to understand what those long-named ingredients that are used to make your cosmetics. This is the first step to finding the perfect beauty products for your skin.
Want to know exactly what is in your cosmetics? Need a little guidance in choosing the best brands? Or simply want to know which companies are cruelty free? Make sure you dive into Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me!
A New Giveaway from UsTrendy
A New Giveaway from UsTrendy
Do you love Indie fashion? Can’t wait to find the next up-and-coming designer? UsTrendy showcases top indie fashion designers chosen by popular demand.
Enter to win this breathtaking Aqua & Mocha III Necklace made out of Polymer Clay, Crystal, and Copper by Lisa Houwerzyl!
We will be using both “Tweet Entries” for this giveaway.
Here’s how to enter:
Tweet the following: "I love Indie Fashion & UsTrendy! @D_Fashionistas @UsTrendyShop http://bit.ly/97w2Vy Enter to win an indie fashion creation!"
Want another chance to win this gorgeous necklace?
Leave a comment on this post about your
favorite indie fashionista at UsTrendy!
Leave a comment on this post about your
favorite indie fashionista at UsTrendy!
Rules of Entry:
Entries accepted until 5:00 pm on Sunday, March 27.
You may enter more than once.
Aqua & Mocha III valued at $84.00.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Featured Fashionista: Denise Richard designer of Diary of Jolï House of Fashion
Denise Richard’s love for fashion began as a young woman in her native town of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Her mother constantly encouraged her be creative and also introduced her to garment making, while her father would photograph her creations. Whether they knew it or not at the time, her parents love and support would provide inspiration to the young fashionista and begin her passion for fashion.
Daily Fashionistas chose Denise as our Featured Fashionista because she's not only an up-and-coming fashion icon, but she has an inspirational story of following her dreams. Her beautiful designs are fun as well as flirty. Denise even adds some edge to her creations. Let's get to know more about Denise Richard:
If I weren’t a designer/fashionista, I’d be…well, actually…I AM an Engineer. I like to say, “Engineer by day; designer by night.”
Working in engineering has had a tremendous affect on my fashion sense as an emerging designer. I have developed a keen eye and the ability to understand the concepts behind designs. Engineering is simply an additional resource that I rely on to produce innovative, avant-guarde pieces in an artistic way.
When I need to relax, I…Watch an old 1930s/1940s American Classic Movie, featuring; for example, Betty Davis, Joan Crawford, or Lana Turner. I am a HUGE Elvis Presley fan, and also enjoy his 1960s films such as Blue Hawaii and Viva Las Vegas.
I look at the style of the actors/actress’ garments for inspirations for my men’s and women’s Prêt-a-Porter Lines, Jolï and León, as they very much represent regality, class, and glamour seen during those eras. I think, “Wow, only if I could dress like that!”I lay magazines next to me…Vogue (the bible for fashion trends and fashionistas), InStyle, Marie Claire, Glamour…all of them laid right there beside me to compare. I follow the celebrities, especially Rachel Zoe, Victoria Beckham and June Ambrose so that I can keep up on what they are doing and who they are styling. They are the epitome of what the Jolï woman represents.
I also use my free time to write in my diary… the Diary of Jolï. The diary is a documentation of my entire life story…a legacy to leave behind to my daughter. It profiles the steps and processes behind launching my collections and the necessary resources needed to achieve a successful company.
Although a diary is usually secret; my inner most thoughts that no one really knows about, I have unlocked it to share with all of you.
The trait I love most in myself is… I love that I am so personable and love to network and build relationships. I just love people! People will respond to me when they see that I am just the “girl next door” with a vision and dreams before me. Now, stepping out and claiming my destiny. My aspirations are to build networks to enhance the Joli’ brand.
When I’m online, I …check out major fashion calendars, google fashion trends and visit TOPSHOP, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Instyle online. It is important as a designer that I understand what the people who shop at those places relate to.
My collections are high-quality, custom, couture garments. Those mediums are the perfect niche The Diary of Jolï caters to.
All the while, I am constantly checking my Twitter and Facebook fanpage, communicating with my followers every chance that I get and announcing what I am working on that day.
The paparazzi should love me because…I wear many “hats.”
On any given day, the paparazzi would see that my day is never dull. I go from the board room to board meetings of my non-profit organizations. Next could be a fashion show, picking up the kids from school, then right back home to make dinner and sketch. They can always catch me on the move as a “rock-star” mom…and always looking fabulous.
I can’t go into … without maxing out my credit card!
Unfortunately, there are so many that I am connected to: Nordstrom & and the shoe dept of Neiman Marcus are my poison.
I am a shoe fanatic and eventually had to stop and consider optimizing my love for shoes. In 2005, I opened my own shoe boutique (Head Over Heels) in Houston, Texas so I could quit maxing out my card.
My favorite style secret is…utilizing belts for necklaces.
Sometimes I see a belt and to me, I like it more as a necklace. I will easily transform it to give an outfit a bit of character and more attention.
I can’t leave the house without …my blackberry, sunshades, and the Diary of Joli’ portfolio.
I’d love to meet …Catherine Malandrino and June Ambrose.
I’d love to be…known as a designer willing to help all other designers live out their dreams; to give them a step-by-step process/survival guide to launch their line. I would also like to be a “red-carpet name,” with celebrities such as Michelle Obama wearing my garments.
My favorite celeb style is…Victoria Beckham, because she represents the definition of the Jolï woman.
The Jolï woman is confident, chic, fashionable, and edgy. A Jolï woman is independent and is always on the move. Our collection is geared toward the Jetsetter. A socialite that grabs the attention of everyone she embarks upon; is the woman Jolï aims to dress. Our garments will allow this remarkable well-dressed woman to transition from day to night no matter what the occasion. If you are not a Jetsetter, wearing a Jolï design will be a great start to looking like one.
In 10 years, I will be …a well-known designer, with showrooms in NY and LA.
I would also like to lead the way to making Houston, TX a major fashion capital in the United States; where the industry will look to us for style trends and pattern making.
To hear more about my Diary…follow me on Twitter, my Facebook fanpage and my blog where I give step-by-step commentary as I launch my line.
About Diary of Jolï:
We have completed our fall 2010 Jolï line, and currently working on spring 2011. The menswear collection, León, will launch in 2011. Stay tuned for our junior collection… the Notebook!
Twitter: @Diaryof Joli
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Diary-of-Joli/317672834682?ref=sgm
Blog: http://www.diaryofjoli.blogspot.com/
Friday, March 12, 2010
Ask the Expert: Daily Coffee Grinder
Q. I did all of the right things to make espresso at home. I bought myself a good espresso machine. I learned which espresso beans have the best taste and how to grind them to the correct fineness. I managed to insert the gadget with the grinds, known as a portafilter, into the espresso machine, lock it into place, turn on the machine and let her rip. Great espresso! But I wanted a cappuccino. My friend wanted a latte. How do you properly steam the milk?
A. I found out that low fat and nonfat milk foam really easily. Whole milk takes more practice. Same thing with half and half if you want to be brave.
Some espresso machines have a built in steam nozzle and some don't. Depending on your machince, you may need to buy a separate steamer. I recommend getting an espresso machine with one built in – this will save time and space.
The first thing to do is to put that stainless steel pitcher and milk into the refrigerator to get cold. Always start with them cold. And then my next learning curve came with remembering to fill the pitcher about a third to a half full. Milk expands really well when it's steamed. It takes only once for it to foam up, overflow and hit the floor to remember to start with a pitcher no more than half full.
Start by putting the nozzle on the surface of the milk and turning the steam on full. The milk is going to begin to foam, so keep lowering the pitcher so that the nozzle is just under the surface of the milk. About a half inch will do fine. You can turn down the pressure when the foam really begins to rise, or just take the pitcher away. Now the milk is just about at the boiling point.
Now here is something important. Don't let it boil. This is another way to get the milk to overflow the pitcher. Or even worse, it will taste burnt. Ugh. Nasty.
Your steamed milk should have little bubbles all the way through it, and there should be a light foam on the top. There you are. That's it. Now you go make whatever espresso drink you want. Next up, you can start learning how to make all those fancy designs on top!
About Daily Coffee Grinder:
Daily Coffee Grinder was founded in December 2009. Jen enjoys finding new ways to make the same old cup of coffee! Mix it up and try something new! Make an espresso or try a latte. The best thing about coffee is that no matter what you do, it [almost] always tastes great! Visit www.DailyCoffeeGrinder.com!
Daily Coffee Grinder is currently looking for a partner to help design a new layout, if you're interested, please e-mail me at sales@dailycoffeegrinder.com!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Daily Fashionistas Must-See of the Week: The September Issue
Ever wonder what the world is like inside the walls of Vogue? Be sure to snag your own copy of the latest fashion documentary, The September Issue. The September Issue offers a once in a lifetime sneak peek into the world's fashion bible.
Get to know Anna Wintour, the editor of Vogue for the past two decades. Find out what makes her tick behind the scenes. She's hard not to love with her stubborn attitude. I find her stunning fashion sense is unusually motivating and inspirational.
Do you have a review of The September Issue
? Post it below!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Ask the Expert: Denise of No Gluten Here
When I mentioned having a gluten free expert this week for our Ask the Expert Column, the response was overwhelming! I, myself, must follow a gluten free diet, but I had no idea how many of the Daily Fashionistas readers also either had to follow a gluten free diet or knew a friend who followed a gluten free diet! I contacted a good friend of mine, Denise, the creator of http://www.noglutenhere.com/. When I asked her to contribute some of her gluten free knowledge, she didn't hesitate to say yes!Q. What is gluten? Or Gluten free?
A. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and sometimes oats. Some people can not eat oats either do to the processing, but that is an ongoing topic. To be gluten free is to avoid eating all wheat, rye, and barley containing products, which in today's world can be a challenge, especially to newly diagnosed individuals with celiac disease, or gluten intolerances. There is definitely a learning curve when you become gluten free and knowing ahead of time some issues will happen, but it does get much easier in time.
Q. How do I know if I should be gluten free?
A. This is a very loaded question... Going gluten free by any other reason than a personal choice is something you should seek medical advice about with your doctor first. In order for your physician to make an accurate diagnosis of Celiac Disease you must be continuously eating gluten. (However, there are some exceptions, and I of course was one of those.) With celiac disease there are over 300 symptoms that can be present. During my pre-diagnosis I seemed to be having a different symptom everyday which was very confusing to me but also presented a challenge to my doctors as well. You should keep a list of all symptoms that you are having, along with your food choices in a “food diary” and take them with you to your doctor. It may seem like a struggle until you know for sure what is wrong but don't give up! Persistence can bring about change. For me, the key phrase that led to testing for celiac disease was, "I always feel the best when I first wake-up, then as the day goes on, I become seriously ill and can't function in daily life"
Q. What do I do at a dinner party when I have a severe food allergy?
A. There are many things you can do when you go to a dinner party with your allergies, first and foremost I say GO to the party, you must keep on living as normal as possible and having fun in life! Chances are the hostess or host is one of your friends, so please feel free to call them and explain that you have food challenges, and you want to attend but need to plan your evening so you can safely enjoy the party. I have found many times the hostess is serving many gluten free morsels without even being aware of it. Another plan of action is to ask if you can bring your own meal to the party, just see if they can plate it up, carefully of course without contamination, on the same plates as everyone else and sometimes many people don't even notice any difference. Or if you want to take extra precautions, just bring it ready to serve already plated. Still yet a last resort is to eat before you arrive, but you can still bring some gluten free foods to share with everyone. I usually choose a large specialty salad or a seasonal fruit plate to be enjoyed by all.... and everyone in the gluten free world knows gluten free brownies are better than regular brownies anyway! I can doctor up all the new Betty Crocker cake mixes to make them be a stand-out themselves... Iced raspberry bundt cake, or luscious carrot cake w/cream cheese icing, and even cinnamon roll iced cake with pecans - ALL gluten free. FYI, typically cheesecake is gluten free, it's just the crust that contains gluten, and they make gluten free graham crackers so you never have to feel cheated.... but who needs the crust anyway when you have the top?
Q. How can I be safe when dining out at a restaurant?
A. Dining out or "DYING OUT" as I call it can be another challenge, but there are some very simple things that you should follow to be safe. Many places are now serving a gluten free menu or they have some gluten free choices. When being seated I always tell the hostess that we have food allergies and issues and ask for a gluten free menu. If they don't have a menu, I always ask to see a food allergy manager to discuss my options. There usually is no such manager's title, but a manager usually shows up after that request every time! This makes me feel safe ordering with someone who is aware of my issues and can stay abreast of the order with the chef and the server. When your food does arrive, always check it out before you eat it, as someone may accidentally have put bread crumbs in your salad, or serve you the wrong entrée'. It is fine to ask the server when your meal is brought to the table if it's the gluten free meal, or the specially prepared meal by the chef.
Q. What is your favorite gluten free meal?
A. I laugh at this question, as in the beginning of my gluten free journey I had to learn how to cook and bake ALL over again... now over three years have gone by and it seems like everyday I come up with a new favorite gluten free meal. Last evening I made a gluten free coconut tempura type shrimp meal, and it was absolutely delicious, but I seem to enjoy more healthy food choices now anyway. I love wild salmon, with quinoa, broccoli and a strawberry spinach salad, with ripe watermelon for dessert. Very simple, yet totally gluten free, delicious and healthy!
Please feel free to follow Denise's new blog for some gluten free recipes, and gluten free product reviews at http://www.noglutenhere.com/. For more information on a gluten free diet or Celiac Disease diagnosis, please contact your medical professional, the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, or the Gluten Intolerance Group.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Daily Fashionistas Must-Read of the Week: Jackie Collins "Poor Little Bitch Girl"
Every once in a while every fashionista needs a good dirty romance novel. Jackie Collins' 27th New York Times Best Seller, Poor Little Bitch Girl, fulfills this burning desire! She brings the trio of Annabelle Maestro, Denver Jones, and Carolyn Henderson to life. Throw in Bobby Santangelo Stanislopolous, the man who knows everyone's secrets, and you've got one steamy must-read! If you've enjoyed any of Collins' previous works of magnificence, you'll swoon over her latest, Poor Little Bitch Girl.
Monday, March 1, 2010
A New Giveaway from Francesca Belluomini Creations
A New Giveaway from Francesca Belluomini Creations
Can't wait to get your hands on the new Francesca Belluomini Collection? Enter to win this breathtaking Purple Amethyst Lariat Necklace!
We will be using “Tweet Entries” for this giveaway.
Here’s how to enter:
Tweet the following: "I love the new Francesca Belluomini Collection! @D_Fashionistas @fbcreations http://bit.ly/bNLSoW Enter to win a piece from her creation!"
Rules of Entry:
Entries accepted until 5:00 pm on Sunday, March 7.
You may enter more than once.
**Tweet limit: once per day.
Purple Amethyst Lariat valued at $90.00.
Nicole Richie's Whirlwind Season for the House of Harlow 1960
Whether she’s riding around in a Greyhound on the Simple Life or guest judging on Project Runway, Nicole Richie has always had a knack for keeping us entertained. When Richie debuted her jewelry line the House of Harlow 1960, I knew that she would once again capture our hearts and make us swoon over her fabulous creative side.
Richie’s line has matured over the years since the debut capturing the fashion world in a whirlwind of excitement! Her new line is notorious for its splash of unique colors, gold accents, and strong black influences. Here are some of the Daily Fashionistas favorites available at Boutique To You
:
House of Harlow 1960 Peacock Cuff
:
This gorgeous gold accent piece can be incorporated into any woman's wardrobe. Mix it up with a flowing evening gown for a glam look for the red carpet or mix in some bangles for an indie feel.
You could even match the Peacock Cuff with the 14K Gold-Plated Peacock Necklace
. 
These pieces aren't available until the end of March, but I already pre-ordered mine!
I've been gushing over black and gold accessories for the past season, and now Nicole has given me a reason to continue crushing on these two tones with her Black Leather Garter Bracelet
.
This piece can be added to almost any collection flawlessly! Add a spunk to your usual business professional, or a little edge to your girlie wardrobe with this eye-catching bracelet. The detailed work on the bracelet adds a certain flair and originality to the piece.
This winter, the Northeast has experienced a bone-chilling cold like never before, I've been looking for every excuse to introduce a dash of color into my wardrobe. Richie's Gold Plated Abalone Large Starburst Necklace
gives me another way to shine - even in the coldest of winters! 
Layering is all the rage this season. Pair the Starburst Necklace with the Gold Abalone Five Station Necklace
for a completely different look!
I can honestly say that no matter what your personal style is this season, Nicole Richie's House of Harlow 1960 collection will suit your fashion sense! We've seen a lot of edgyness and chains on the runway this season. Here's your chance to incorporate the runway look with an air of femininity and borderline bohemian.
Richie’s line has matured over the years since the debut capturing the fashion world in a whirlwind of excitement! Her new line is notorious for its splash of unique colors, gold accents, and strong black influences. Here are some of the Daily Fashionistas favorites available at Boutique To You
House of Harlow 1960 Peacock Cuff
This gorgeous gold accent piece can be incorporated into any woman's wardrobe. Mix it up with a flowing evening gown for a glam look for the red carpet or mix in some bangles for an indie feel.
I've been gushing over black and gold accessories for the past season, and now Nicole has given me a reason to continue crushing on these two tones with her Black Leather Garter Bracelet
This piece can be added to almost any collection flawlessly! Add a spunk to your usual business professional, or a little edge to your girlie wardrobe with this eye-catching bracelet. The detailed work on the bracelet adds a certain flair and originality to the piece.
This winter, the Northeast has experienced a bone-chilling cold like never before, I've been looking for every excuse to introduce a dash of color into my wardrobe. Richie's Gold Plated Abalone Large Starburst Necklace
Layering is all the rage this season. Pair the Starburst Necklace with the Gold Abalone Five Station Necklace
I can honestly say that no matter what your personal style is this season, Nicole Richie's House of Harlow 1960 collection will suit your fashion sense! We've seen a lot of edgyness and chains on the runway this season. Here's your chance to incorporate the runway look with an air of femininity and borderline bohemian.
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