Everything She Wants

A wise aesthetician at the Cowshed Spa at Soho House recently told me to pick up a Clarisonic skin care machine. Instead of the costly microdermabrasion treatments I'm so fond of, the expert said Clarisonic works just as well. She was right.  Thanks to a gift from Clarisonic, I've been using a Clarisonic PLUS with Body-Brush for about five weeks and the results are remarkable. My biggest problem has always been not exfoliating my skin enough, and the cleansing system solved that problem. To cleanse my face, I apply my favorite gel or scrub and choose between three speeds. My skin has a healthy glow, feels smoother, and problematic blemishes on my cheeks and chin have noticeably faded. The dermatologist-recommended Clarisonic PLUS was created by the primary inventor of the Sonicare toothbrush (another favorite daily grooming device), and its gentle sonic vibrations cleanse deeply, clears pores, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and reduces oily areas a

As the rain pours in New York City for the second day straight, two songs are dancing in my head.   " Rain, rain, go away.  Come again another day" is the first .  But then again, if it's gonna rain, I might as well look fierce.  With that in mind, I'm also humming the Prince B-side classic, "17 Days." " Let the rain fall down...the rain fall down, down ." To embrace the fearlessly fashionable mood of the latter song, I need a pair of Hot in Hollywood's Croco-Embossed Rain Boots ($44.90) on HSN.com. These waterproof boots with a side buckle detail and a texturized rubber sole make me want to sing and dance in the rain. Image credit: Tracy E. Hopkins

If I had to pick a shopping splurge it would be on jewelry. More specifically, I'd pay more than usual for a piece of jewelry I can wear every day.  With that goal in mind, it seems an initial pendant necklace designed by Ariel Gordon may be in my immediate future. I met the LA-based designer at the Red Light PR preview in New York City. Ariel is a former publicist who started making jewelry as an escape from the hectic job in Hollywood pr. She launched her eponymous collection of simple, modern jewelry made with sterling silver, gold, vermeil metals, semi-precious stones, and diamonds in 2009. Her pieces -- including initial pendant (she created her own funky font) and Zodiac sign  necklaces , geometric-shaped  rings , and sweet hoops-and-stud earrings  -- are reasonably priced ($30 and up) and meant to be flaunted from day to night. Eva Longoria, Claire Danes, and Audrina Patridge are fans. So am I. Heck, Ariel's so crafty she even designed her own engagement ring.

During Fashion Week in February I snagged a coupon for a pair of free  Custom-Made Vans  at a Twitter party hosted by stylist Robert Verdi.  And yay, they arrived this week. Making my own sneakers was fun and I'm proud to sport my original, camouflage kicks. You can do it too. Vans Customs come in a choice of three styles -- Era, Slip-On, or Old Skool -- and are reasonably priced from $60-$70. They're comfy too.

Over the years, I've tried several diets and juice cleanses. Yet those last 5-10 lbs still aren't budging.  One plan I'd never considered, however, is Jenny Craig . Sure, Valerie Bertinelli looks awesome.  But I like eating fresh food, so I'm not a fan of having to rely on the brand's packaged meals.   Comedian Nicole Sullivan. Photo courtesy of ESW. After attending an event featuring "King of Queens" co-star Nicole Sullivan, however, I'm reconsidering that call to Jenny.  By now you've all seen Nicole's bikini-body commercial reveal. The 40-year-old actress dropped 34 pounds in 16 weeks. Nicole says Jenny Craig promotes "safe, healthy, moderate weight loss." Sounds like a plan to me. Like me, she tried the Master cleanse and no-and-low carb diets. God bless ya if those work for you, but drinking juices or spicy lemonade all day and not being able to have a sliver of bread makes me feel crazy.  While on Jenny Craig, the ac

The name Moises de la Renta may not be immediately recognizable, but he's the son of legendary fashion designer Oscar de la Renta.  At 25, the Dominican Republic native has already dressed Michelle Obama (she wore a design from his Autumn '09 collection).  Now we can all feel like a First Lady when Moises' limited edition line of t-shirts ($49.90 - $69.90) arrive in Mango stores in April. The preview for his Mango collection was charming; very ladies who lunch-meets- Alice in Wonderland . I've always wanted to have afternoon tea.  And SoHo's trendy Crosby Street Hotel was the perfect setting for sipping champagne and noshing on scones, crustless cucumber and smoked salmon sandwiches, and scones and cakes with jam.  Red-lipped models sashayed about, showing off the luxe tees embellished with jewels, precious stones, and tulle paired with '40s-style tulle skirts.  "My inspiration for this collection," he says, "were the tradi

The Ann Taylor Fall 2010 preview was a surprisingly swanky affair.  The Ace Hotel lobby was abuzz with clinking champagne glasses and chatter from fashion editors, writers, and bloggers. Even fresh-faced actress Rachel Bilson and "Mad Men"redhead Christina Hendricks were in the house. The collection features opulent costume jewelry (rhinestone rules), long leather gloves, and accessories, separates and dresses swathed in bold leopard print. Embellished flats and a peep-toe oxford bootie also make great accents to any career gal's wardrobe. Another highlight of the polished affair was a performance by stunning Brit pop-soul singer V.V. Brown .  Take this from a former music editor and sometime music writer, she's one to watch. V.V's  raspy vocals recall Amy Winehouse and her vibe is little Lauryn Hill.  The girl's style, however, is all V.V. She rocked the Ann Taylor preview crowd in chic black, literally from head to toe. Her album, Travelling Li

Mother's Day is right around the corner.  So it's a good time to start shopping for the hot Mama in your life or to pick up a trinket for yourself.   Isabelle Grace Jewelry offers precious initial and name plate necklaces and bracelets that remind you of your kids, husband, or that someone special whenever you wear them. These dainty designs are made with the finest materials -- 14kt-gold filled, 22 kt gold, sterling silver, and semi-precious stones. Model (and Matthew McConaughey's baby Mama) Camila Alves proudly wears the " Camilla Necklace " ($335; see above photo) with her son Levi's name on it. And "Grey's Anatomy" star Katherine Heigl adores her " Script Name Charm Necklace " ($150), inscribed with daughter Naleigh's name. But you don't have to be a Mom to wear Isabelle Grace. The designer also has a selection of handmade bracelets and earrings made with precious stones.  I have my eye on the " Uptown Girl B

Those doe-like eyes.  That signature haircut. Twiggy was the poster child for London's '60s mod scene.  Now the fashion icon is bringing her Boho Brit style to HSN , with the debut of Twiggy London on Saturday, April 3. Yesterday, I chatted with the gracious supermodel and got a sneak peek at her collection at the Bryant Park Hotel. Twiggy said she was inspired to make an accessible collection by her longtime friend Barbara Hulanicki, who opened the popular London department store, Biba , in the '60s. Instead of haute couture, Hulanicki focused on affordable designs inspired by London street fashion. Similarly, everything in Twiggy's HSN collection is under $100. "Fashion is for everyone," says Twiggy.  "We should all be able to wear great clothes." Standout items include Satin Sneakers with velvet shoelaces in a choice of white, hot pink, black, or cobalt ($39.90); a funky Union Jack tote in black, navy, hot pink, pistachio, or chocolat

Everything She Wants is offering its readers the scoop on an exclusive Tommy Hilfiger giveaway!  What's up for grabs?  A cute Tommy Hilfiger/Ari Marcopoulos tote bag  especially designed in honor of the Whitney Museum of American Art’s Biennial, which Tommy Hilfiger co-sponsors.  The tote is available at the Whitney Museum and at US Tommy Hilfiger specialty stores for $98 retail, so it’s a pretty sweet deal for the lucky winner. The contest ends at 9 pm today.  So get to Tweetin! Here's how you can win: 1) Follow the Tommy Hilfiger Twitter channel:  http://twitter.com/tommyhilfiger 2) Retweet this giveaway announcement post here on Everything She Wants 3) Remember to use the giveaway Twitter handle #THtote in your Retweet Image credit: Tommy Hilfiger

Strolling the streets of New York City provides great fashion inspiration.  On a recent trip down Fifth Avenue I paused at a stunning, asymmetrical wedding gown in the window of White House Black Market. You know, the store where First Lady Michelle Obama picked up that darling, floral print black and white dress . White House Black Market recently launched a limited-edition bridal collection, and I wish I could get married all over again.  The eye-catching, soft ivory dress with a fitted bodice ($498) is complemented by a matching ivory satin clutch ($68) and heels ($98). The line is the centerpiece of the boutique brand's affordable couture initiative, and wedding specialists at select boutiques in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Houston will be on-hand to help each bride-to-be.  The gown is also available online at the Wedding Boutique and via a dedicated phone line at 1-888-WED-WHBM. Image credit: White House Black Market

Jessica Simpson may not brush her teeth.  But we all know that white teeth and fresh breath are as essential as adding a floral pattern to your wardrobe this spring.   Crest wants the readers of Everything She Wants to have pretty pearly whites.  So the brand is offering three lucky readers the chance to win a tube of the new Crest Pro-Health Sensitive Shield toothpaste, plus a Crest toothbrush and floss! The toothpaste  offers sensitivity protection with no trade-offs by also protecting the seven areas dentists check most: cavities, gingivitis, plaque, tartar, sensitivity, whitening and fresh breath – all in one package!  If you have sensitive teeth, you no longer have to spend your time and money using more than one toothpaste to get comprehensive oral health protection for their teeth and gums. To enter the giveaway, follow these three easy steps: 1) Respond to this post with your first name and email address and tell me your favorite toothpaste (hint, the answer sho

Swimsuit season is upon us.   Are you ready ?  Me neither. But here's the good news. SPANX has a new line of slimming swimwear.  Designed to give women the flattering fit, luxurious styling, and body shaping we've come to expect from the quality brand, SPANX Swimsuits bring fashionable shaping pool-side and to the beach. Let's all breathe a collective sigh of relief . "Since I grew up in Florida, I've always been a beach bum with a draw full of swimsuits," says SPANX founder Sara Blakely.  "Unfortunately, they all seemed to squeeze and pinch in all the wrong places." The suits are made with the same unparalleled technology as all SPANX shape-wear, however, they're just as sexy and versatile as non-shaping swimsuits.  To compliment your personal style and body type, the suits are broken into several categories: To Dive For Collection is full of fashionable, flattering suits featuring elegant ruching. My pick : The classic  Deep-V One P

I just purchased a grown-up, every day bra. I've been wearing the same cotton, wireless bras that I picked up at Conway discount department store several years ago. But my stash is getting a little worn-out. And I haven't been able to find a more comfy replacement. So I went to Macy's, where most grown-up gals shop by the way, and picked up a silky soft Bali's Passion for Comfort wireless bra. It was more expensive than I would normally spend ($17 with my Macy's Card and coupon), but I consider it a good investment. Because I have bras on the brain, it's ironic an email from The Bra Book author Jene' Luciani recently landed in my inbox.  The style expert shared her "Seven Tips to Dressing 7 Pounds Thinner." "Just getting the proper fitting bra can take pounds off your figure instantly," says Luciani.  But there are also a few other easy ways to look slimmer, without hitting the gym. Here are Luciani's 7 slimming tips : F

When it comes to my hair, I'm in a bit of a rut.  And I'd love to flaunt a new do for spring.  To help me switch up my style (at least until I get my hair re-twisted), I was sent H2pro's "Presto" flat iron .  It's been years since my hair has been straightened and I'm eager to see its untwisted length. Actress Jada Pinkett Smith, however, isn't afraid to change up her look.  Here's how you can copy the tousled ponytail she wore to the 3rd Annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon ( my invite must have gotten lost in the mail ). The style was created by celebrity hairstylist Marcia Hamilton .  Do try this at home : Create the Braid -  Make a part, starting from behind the left ear to the right ear. Then create a deep right-side part leaving out the lesser hair. Gather the front section of hair and tease the root to create texture and volume.  Use your favorite volumizing spray   at the root area for hold. Braid the hair on the sca

Yinon Badichi is a patient man.  He's in the customized belt business, so he has to be.  During my visit to his Soho shop, Badichi Belts (159 Prince Street), it took me at least fifteen minutes to choose a textured, bronze leather strap and brass buckle. Decision-making, however, is all part of the Badichi experience.  You design your belt from an assortment of high quality, Italian leather straps and buckles. There's something for the edgy girl, the girly girl, and the unique girl. After you pick, Yinon measures to fit your waist or hips, depending where you'd like to wear it. He makes holes and a loop. And within minutes, you have a customized belt. " This is not just fashion, but good quality ," stresses Yinon, who made belts with his family in Israel before he set up shop in New York City earlier this month. Prices range from $60 for a unisex belt/buckle combination to $400 (this includes a handmade buckle made with Swarovski crystals). Badichi Belt

Remember when HSN was called the Home Shopping Network? I do. During my college days in the early '90s, I spent several sleepless nights mesmerized by lobster claw clasps.  The network's new-and-improved branding, however, focuses on quality and designer brands for less. American Glamour by celebrity design duo Mark Badgley ( pictured with me on the right ) and James Mischka ( pictured with me on the left ) is one of HSN's premier high-fashion lines. Inspired by their red carpet and runway fashions, American Glamour brings the Hollywood aesthetic to every woman's wardrobe. The affordable luxury brand launched in 2009 and the designers debut an inspired collection exclusively for HSN six times a year.  Prices range from $39 to $499. Tune into HSN on March 18 for the live launch of American Glamour's  Spring 2010 collection . Here's a sneak peek: Stone Hinged Bangles, $79 Atwell Cork Wedge in Navy, $99.90 Jackie Leather Gathered Bag, $329.9

Actifirm is awesome.  And I'm not saying that just because they gave me a free sample.  I've tested my share of skin care products and Actifirm makes my skin look, feel, and smell like I just came from a spa. The 30-day "Doc Box Starter Kit" ($48) includes travel-size versions of four of Actifirm's most popular, botanicals-based potions.  Wanna know how they work? Step 1: Actifirm Antioxidant Cleanser is a gentle, 2-in-1 cleanser especially good for acne-prone skin. The antioxidant effects of key ingredients like pomegranate, grapefruit, and Japanese green tea soothe and cleanse the skin while removing surface oils. Step 2: Actifirm Z-Peel looks a bit intimidating in its mock syringe container.  But there's nothing scary about this peel made with Actifirm's patented exfoliating enzyme from a Japanese mushroom and 14 other botanicals -- including extracted oils from lavender, coriander, and Roman chamomile flowers. Step 3: Actifirm Renovation Serum

Spring has sprung at the Liberty of London for Target pop-up shop in New York City .  I was invited to a press preview yesterday morning, so here's the scoop.  Honestly, I wasn't familiar with the Liberty of London brand.  But its whimsical, flowery goods for women, men, and home are the perfect way to usher in the upcoming season.  And best of all, the line is affordable. I scooped up a bridal party-or-guest perfect, yellow and white floral pattern dress ($34.99) and a hippie chick, peacock patterned tunic ($24.99). Other items that caught my eye were cheeky men's boxers ($5.99), and a black and white plastic serving tray with a vintage-reminiscent pattern that could easily double as a dresser top centerpiece for makeup and perfume ($12.99). If you're in New York City or you're planning to visit this weekend, pop in the Liberty of London for Target pop-up store at 1095 Sixth Avenue @ 42nd Street (across the street from Bryant Park). The temporary store is open

Maybe it's hormonal, a change in the seasons, or my pillow cases.  But my skin has been breaking out like crazy lately. Or maybe I'm testing too many skin care products.  One product, however, that I've recently become fond of is Shobha's Rosewater Toner  ($22). Shobha is an expert hair removal salon in New York City with several locations .  The toner naturally reduces skin irritation, so it's perfect after eyebrow threading or waxing.  Besides rose water, the ingredients include purified water, witch hazel, and flower oil. I use it as a facial toner, but it can be used to freshen up any body part ( okay, not that one ). Image credit: Shobha

" This is my signature walk, and it's going to make me famous ," proclaimed Camille McDonald during Cycle 2 of "America's Next Top Model." Tyra and her fashion accessories -- fab makeup artist/art director Jay Manuel and comical catwalk coach Miss J. Alexander -- tried to coax Camille to adjust her signature walk and head-strong attitude. Six years later, the Howard University graduate is still working her way to the top. "I had a strong identity," Camille told me over drinks at New York Fashion Week in February.  "I love and respect Tyra, but you have to make decisions of your own." Although Camille thinks she was cut out of the running to be America's next top model too early, she says she's glad she took her bow when she did. "The next show [was] an orgy with male models.  So that wasn't for me." By the way, I've seen Camille's misfit house-mate Shandi Sullivan (the main culprit in that hot

Sade is a study in cool, effortless style.  At 51, she still rocks her trademark ponytail, with just the right amount of red lipstick applied to her full lips.  Her playful freckles invite a lingering gaze. Her lithe frame reveals only a hint of the womanly curves that motherhood and father time have added. Helen Folasade Adu.  She is our Mona Lisa.  Our " Soldier of Love ." Mysterious.  Alluring.  She reminds me of the poem "Karintha" -- my favorite passage from Jean Toomer's Harlem Renaissance classic, Cane . Karintha is a woman.  She who carries beauty, perfect as dusk when the sun goes down. Her skin is like dusk on the eastern horizon, O cant you see it, O cant you see it, Her skin is like dusk on the eastern horizon ...When the sun goes down Image credit: Sony Records

Shopping for a cause is always a good excuse to pick up a new trinket. So I won't feel at all guilty when I buy Danielle Stevens ' "Strength and Empowerment" bracelet ($40). Throughout March, sixty percent of sales will be donated to Women for Women International . The stylish accessory, available exclusively online , allows the non-profit organization to provide women in conflict-ridden countries with emotional and financial support, job skills training, and assistance for small business development. The chunky, woven-leather-and-chain bracelet is currently available for pre-order and will ship the week of March 15. Image credit: Danielle Stevens

Penelope Cruz is reliably one of Hollywood's "Best Dressed" women and she didn't disappoint at last night's 82nd Annual Academy Awards ceremony.  The smoldering actress parted the red carpet in her stunning, Bordeaux duchess satin gown by Donna Karan. Note to two of the evening's fashion disasters, Charlize Theron and Sarah Jessica Parker ;  this is what an A-list star looks like on Oscar night . Thanks to Dalia McPhee designs, you can copy Penelope's pretty Oscar look (and other starlet replicas) for less. Each Dalia dress retails at Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom nationwide for under $400. Let's go shopping! Imag e credit: Getty images, Dalia McPhee

Zoe Saldana was a vision in violet.  The sparkly top half of the "Avatar" beauty's Givenchy couture gown was gorg. Too bad half the bottom of the dress was a can-can girl nightmare.  From the back, the ruffles in varying shades of purple reigned on the red carpet.  From the front, however, the awkward split and poofy layers were overkill. What do you think?  Was Zoe's elaborate gown delightful or a fashion disaster? Image credit: Getty Images

Here's to new beginnings.  Until recently, I was the editor for Hot Mama Daily , a popular beauty and style blog for women of color under b5media's Splendicity umbrella. I loved writing the blog, and published 600-plus posts since I took it over in November, 2008.  So I was surprised and saddened by its abrupt end. But I'm the kind of woman who likes to take control of her destiny.  That's why I launched Everything She Wants .  Fashion, beauty, celebrity dish, luxe travel, and pop culture delights are my passion.  The blog's title is a wink to the latter and was inspired by one of my teen fixes, '80s heartthrob duo Wham! I hope my Hot Mama Daily followers find me (Google works, y'all) and that a bevy of new readers embrace the blog as a new web resource for what's hot, hip, and delightful. Everything She Wants is tailored to fit quirky, trend-setting, driven, and curious women like me. Because everything she wants, is everything she sees. S