I've been to many a Shecky's Girls Night Out and the shopping event rarely disappoints.
Highlights include vendors selling trendy handbags and accessories, open bar (yes, shopping and free drinks are a risky combination), and a generous goodie bag stocked with beauty products from Aveeno, the Body Shop, Suave, and more. I like Shecky's so much I became a part of the website's Socialista program.
Girls Night Out is coming to New York City June 15-18. For June 15-16, there's a limited time bargain $20 ticket price that includes general admission plus a goodie bag.Click here to purchase your goodie bag ticket.
When asked at check out how you found out about Shecky's Girls Night Out, please type "Tracy Hopkins/Socialista."
I don't have to tell you how important sun protection is during the summer, right? Even women of color should wear a moisturizer and lip balm with sunscreen daily. And don't forget your hat and shades too.
So if you're looking for a two-for-one benefit in your beauty products, say Yes to Carrots. I'm a big fan of the paraben-free products made with organic ingredients. Plus, they're seriously affordable.
The wholesome brand's latest (available at Target and Walgreens) are infused with zinc oxide, a mineral that provides natural protection against UVA and UVB rays:
From "The Hills" vapid duo Spencer and Heidi Pratt (Speidi to those who love to hate the toxic couple) to Dina Manzo from "The Real Housewives of New Jersey," reality TV "stars" are crazy for crystals. So I felt a little like I was costarring in an episode of my own reality show when I visited East West Living book store in New York City.
My bracelet from East West Living.
My friend Simone and I stopped by one Saturday afternoon so she could get recommendations to soothe her eczema. I hadn't been inside East West in years and was along for the ride. Sky, a sales clerk and apparently the store's resident spiritual guru, recommended Simone mix a quality-grade of lavender oil and Shea butter for her eczema.
Meanwhile, I spotted an aromatherapy oil used to boost fertility. The store was out of the oil, but Sky said he had something better. A fertility bracelet.
For nearly an hour, I pondered purchasing the handmade bracelet ($30) -- made with rose quartz (enhances sexual well-being and confidence); moonstone (helps balance menstrual hormones and soothe anxiety); and green aventurine (promotes fertility, prosperity, and good luck) -- while Sky scanned my energy.
Sky concluded I need more calm and surrender to the intuitive, so I should incorporate pastel shades into my wardrobe and home. He also instructed me to switch sides of the bed with my husband -- something hubby's been trying to do for years. Conversely, he told Simone she needs more fire and grounding. So she should do squats, wear red, and surround herself with pink.
Who knows whether crystals or new age practices really work. But I'm open to alternative methods of health and healing, and emerged from East West Living with profound insight into myself, a few self-help homework assignments, and best of all my new fertility bracelet.
Purchase a trendy, limited edition vintage tee and help families affected by natural disasters. Through its Loads of Hope program, Tide donates all proceeds of the soft cotton t-shirt ($20) to recovery efforts across the country.
Pick up yours today (get free shipping when you buy two or more tees) and show off your summer style and support for those in need.
I'm curious about products that as Cher would say, can turn back time.
Recently, I was introduced to Nutriganics, a new certified organic product line by the Body Shop. Nutriganics' promises to smooth the first signs of aging and erase fine lines and wrinkles in four weeks.
The cleanse-tone-moisturize regimen includes a Foaming Facial Wash created with a blend of essential oils and natural floral fragrances; a non-drying Refreshing Toner; a Smoothing Serum to improve suppleness; and a non-greasy Smoothing Day Cream and Smoothing Night Cream. As an introduction, get the regimen now for only $35 (regularly $52).
The Body Shop gave me a few samples, which I'll try out and report back. But if you're in New York City today (Saturday, May 22), you can try out the new Nutriganics line for yourself. Simply stop by any the Body Shop in Manhattan from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Anyway, the soggy weather in NYC has me more than daydreaming about a sunny getaway. I may not get the chance to travel until June, but I'm already making a mental packing list.
Here's a sample of what's on it.*
Fab jeweled flip-flips from Jaimie Kreitman ($63) add a touch of glamour to your beach ensemble.
I work out and watch what I eat. But I still need all the help I can get to stay in shape and own several fitness shoes that promise to tone your legs, boost your booty, and stimulate weight loss -- including Skechers Shape-Ups, Fit-Flop knockoffs, and Earth Shoes.
The Stride looks similar to Reebok EasyTone sneakers and boasts similar benefits. Two curved pods that transfer air between the heel and forefoot encourage muscle toning and provide cushion with every step. The shoes are made with breathable mesh and durable rubber.
I've worn my Stride sneakers for two weeks. I can't tell if they've made my calves or glutes tauter, but they're cuter than the clunky Skechers Shape-Ups and extremely comfortable. For $29.99, they're a much better deal than Reebok EasyTone sneakers, which retail for $100.
Payless' fitness shoe line also includes a rocker bottom shoe called the Pace ($39.99) and an athletic flip-flop ($24.99) perfect for summer.
On May 27, Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda return to the big screen in "Sex and the City 2." I loved the first film so much I cried. Then again, I also teared-up during "Spice World."
"Sex and the City" was one of those TV shows I didn't want to end, so I welcome the chance to see these sassy New York City gals again. They're like old friends you only kick it with once every couple years, but you pick up right where you left off.
If you'd like to make a "Sex and the City" fashion statement, here are a few cute items I found. The "Carrie" necklace ($24.99) and "Famous Quotes" tote ($19.99) are from the HBO Shop, and the "Hello Lover" tee ($28) -- a Beyonce fave -- is by Mighty Fine.
Remember Dress Barn? The chain was a mall staple in the shoulder-pads-lovin' 80's, but I haven't seen one of the stores lately. So it was a welcome surprise when I was contacted with the offer to let Dress Barn get me dressed for spring. After I emailed my style preferences -- an A-line cut in a dark color with capped sleeves -- I was sent photos of three dress options.
My pick? This sexy secretary dress (see above photos) with a black and white polka dot print top half and gray pencil skirt bottom half ($44.98). I love that it looks like separates and it fits perfectly.
"I didn't know Dress Barn was still around," my cousin commented after admiring the dress during our Mother's Day brunch outing. Me either!
Now that Dress Barn is back on my radar, I will pop in a New York City store near me. You can check out the chain's website to find a Dress Barn near you.
To jump start your spring shopping spree, print out this 20 percent off coupon. The offer expires 5/31/10:
If given the choice whether to shop at Walmart or Target, I usually pick Tar-jay. But I love a bargain. And a recent press preview for Faded Glory, Walmart's staple line for the entire family, showed me that I've been missing out.
Faded Glory caters to working women and Moms on a budget who don't want to sacrifice style. The classic American line has been refreshed to focus on quality, and you can't beat 100% organic cotton women's tees in an array of dip dye, striped, and solid styles for only $4! I received this pink dip die top to the right during the preview and plan to rock it on my tropical getaway.
Later this summer, look out for sporty women's swimsuits ($12) and "flag program" tees, flip-flops, and baby-onesies for only three bucks a piece. Other cute looks for summer include the preppy madras sundress in the photo to the left ($12).
For fall, I can't wait to try on Faded Glory's boot cut and straight leg jeans (funky styles include vintage and stone-washed), and denim leggings for only $12. To save you time in the fitting room, the jeans promise a consistent fit. So if you wear a size 8 in one style, you're a size 8 in all Faded Glory jeans.
Unfortunately, there's no Walmart in the New York City-area, but I bet you can guess where I'm headed this weekend while I'm in Baltimore. To check out Faded Glory, visit a Walmart near you.
We've all seen the commercials. Mail in your unwanted and broken gold and receive cold hard cash. Yeah, I was skeptical too. But earlier today I went to the Brooklyn Marriott where Cash 4 Gold apparently takes up residence a couple times a week. I saw an ad in am NewYork and decided to try my luck with a few gold necklaces I've had since the '80s when I was 14k-with-lobster-claw-clasp-crazy. Thrown in the mix were a couple items I scored at an apartment giveaway.
As I waited, I watched two women who worked for the NYPD sell their goods, so how shady could this operation be?
When it was my turn, a friendly young woman with a jeweler's lens inspected my jewelry and sorted it into bins according to karat. I told her I'd been curious about Cash 4 Gold but didn't want to mail in her jewelry. She agreed making the sale in person eliminates some of the skepticism. She then mentioned a referral program where I make extra money each time a person I recommend sells their jewelry. Sounds good to me.
What sounded even better was my total for the gold I sold. Let's just say I was given a bonus $20 for selling more than $100 and a 10% cash bonus for bringing in my newspaper ad.
I was pleased with the outcome and even boasted on Facebook. With every intention of returning to the Marriott tomorrow, I rummaged through my jewelry boxes and found more gold (and silver if they take it) I can stand to part with.
Because this curious mind always wants to know, however, I Googled and found headlines that read "Cash 4 Gold Scam!" One report on ABC News (see You Tube video below) claimed that when compared to two other gold-buying sites, Cash 4 Gold came up short and offered the lowest cash back. And the company reportedly has 300 complaints with the Better Business Bureau.
This news gave me pause, but I didn't sell anything that had sentimental value and I like that I was able to do my transaction in person. Next time, perhaps I'll try one of the other businesses if they offer a face-to-face selling option. But for now, I trust Cash 4 Gold more than a pawn shop or ghetto jewelry joint in downtown Brooklyn.
Tell me what you think of this gold-buying rush? Are Cash 4 Gold and other companies like it a scam?
Your Mom deserves a break today. So treat her to an escape in a box.
Smartbox comes in a CD-size box featuring a color guidebook with full details of each activity or escape.
As the gift-giver you select the type of escape (Fun for All, Adventure, Serenity, Charming Getaways, Adrenaline, or Gourmet Retreats) and the region (Northeast & Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Great Lakes, Texas, and California) and the recipient makes the reservation for her Smartbox getaway directly with the establishment.
The clever gift offers over 1,600 packages and prices starting at only $49. With 150 indulgent spa treatments to pick from, I'd love to give my Mom a "Serenity" package for the Northeast ($119).
For Mother's Day, Smartbox is offering free standard delivery on any standard package ordered on its website until Sunday (delivery not guaranteed for 5/9/10 on any order placed after 5/3/10). So don't delay, order today!
Mother's Day is only a few days away. And you're probably pondering what to get the woman who seems to have everything?
Before you sprint to Bath and Body Works for yet another body lotion-shower gel-and candle-gift set, here are a few last minute gift ideas:
Bonnie Marcus Collection: This fashionable paper line includes stylish notepads and pocket pads, perfect for shopping lists and simple reminders. The "Super Mom" notepad ($7.50) is my fave.
Doris New York hair products: Move over Carol's Daughter, there's a new mother-daughter hair care team in town. Made by New York Mom Doris Duperley and her daughter Marlene, these sweet-smelling, nourishing products for women of color can be used on both natural and relaxed hair and will give Mom's hair a healthy sheen. I'm a fan of the light-weight Hair Cream ($15). Get free shipping on your first order!
Charmed Circle jewelry: This new celebrity adorned line includes charm bracelets, personalized letter necklaces, love capsules and engraved love letters that carry special secrets and sweet messages. My pick is the "Words to Live By" Bangle ($130-$160).
Not only is "My Life" the title of arguably the best album Mary J. Blige has made to date, it's also the moniker given to the soul singer's new fragrance for Carol's Daughter. According to WWD, the perfume will be sold exclusively on HSN and go on sale July 31.
I'm a fan of celebrity scents by Halle Berry and J. Lo, so I can't wait to try Mary's fragrance with top notes of gardenia, Bartlet pear, and white freesia. Praline, sesame, and incense were also incorporated in the exotic blend, which comes in a clutch purse and retails for $46 (1.7 oz.).
So if you're looking for a two-for-one benefit in your beauty products, say Yes to Carrots. I'm a big fan of the paraben-free products made with organic ingredients. Plus, they're seriously affordable. 
and Walgreens
) are infused with zinc oxide, a mineral that provides natural protection against UVA and UVB rays:
. 
(enhances sexual well-being and confidence); moonstone
(helps balance menstrual hormones and soothe anxiety); and green aventurine
(promotes fertility, prosperity, and good luck) -- while Sky scanned my energy. 
/Barbra Streisand
duet "Enough is Enough?" Yes, I'm that old.
, Fit-Flop
knockoffs, and Earth Shoes
. 
sneakers and boasts similar benefits. Two curved pods that transfer air between the heel and forefoot encourage muscle toning and provide cushion with every step. The shoes are made with breathable mesh and durable rubber. 
." I loved the first film so much I cried. Then again, I also teared-up during "Spice World
."
" was one of those TV shows I didn't want to end, so I welcome the chance to see these sassy New York City gals again. They're like old friends you only kick it with once every couple years, but you pick up right where you left off.
" fashion statement, here are a few cute items I found. The "Carrie" necklace ($24.99) and "Famous Quotes" tote ($19.99) are from the HBO Shop, and the "Hello Lover" tee ($28) -- a Beyonce fave -- is by Mighty Fine.
" had me at "Hello Lover," and the hot soundtrack
("Empire State of Mind"), Erykah Badu
("Window Seat"), and a duet by Leona Lewis
and "SATC" co-star Jennifer Hudson ("Love Is Your Color").
, I usually pick Tar-jay. But I love a bargain. And a recent press preview for Faded Glory, Walmart's staple line for the entire family, showed me that I've been missing out. 
Mother's Day is only a few days away. And you're probably pondering what to get the woman who seems to have everything? 
for yet another body lotion-shower gel-and candle-gift set, here are a few last minute gift ideas:
, there's a new mother-daughter hair care team in town. Made by New York Mom Doris Duperley and her daughter Marlene, these sweet-smelling, nourishing products for women of color can be used on both natural and relaxed hair and will give Mom's hair a healthy sheen. I'm a fan of the light-weight Hair Cream ($15). Get free shipping on your first order!
" the title of arguably the best album Mary J. Blige has made to date, it's also the moniker given to the soul singer's new fragrance for Carol's Daughter
and J. Lo
, so I can't wait to try Mary's fragrance with top notes of gardenia, Bartlet pear, and white freesia. Praline, sesame, and incense were also incorporated in the exotic blend, which comes in a clutch purse and retails for $46 (1.7 oz.).
