June 2, 2011
by Julia DiNardo
[Images courtesy of Phyto]
For starters, let me preface this review by being brutally honest: I LOVE this place! There really is no better way to describe it then as a zen botanical oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Manhattan’s Midtown East. Situated at 58th and Lexington, the Phyto Universe experience sells and uses products by Phyto and Lierac Paris, with Caron Perfume products also available for purchase. Compliments of the brand, I strolled around the spa and received a complimentary hair and skin treatment to fully indulge in the botanical treatment philosophy that the brands so strongly pride themselves upon. I do think I dozed off during my facial, it was so relaxing, with the aromatic botanicals and argan oil of Lierac’s latest product, Sensorielle, lulling me into relaxation.
Afterward, I received a scalp analysis and hair treatment that included products created by Phyto Founder Mr. Patrick Ales decades ago, leaving my hair with a rewarding sheen and health that it hasn’t felt in a long time. One of the most interesting things about Phyto’s haircare here at the Universe is that there is no cuts or color being applied; it is merely to treat, and style hair. Upon leaving, I received a customized prescription, based on my skin and hair needs, found within the brands’ product offerings. If you find yourself in need of a spa getaway in NYC, check out Phyto Universe, with it’s amazingly tranquil setting and gorgeous vertical garden, visible from its third story windows onto Lexington Avenue.
–Julia DiNardo
June 1, 2011
by Julia DiNardo
Not growing up in NYC, I was curious as to what a high school for the arts, in particular, fashion, might be like. Although I can’t turn back time and attend (and even if I could, I’m not sure if I’d want to my teens again), I was able to go to The High School of Fashion Industries Fashion Show and Salute to Isabel & Ruben Toledo. The Toledos were so humble and thrilled to be the recipients of the salute this year, and as an extra bonus, Ruben Toledo’s artwork will be auctioned off (seen above and below) to benefit the High School for Fashion Industries at CharityBuzz.com through June 15th.
The students’ work was framed under the theme “Continental Couture,” with categories including British Invasion, Euro Military, Asian Elegance, and GaGa International. It is so impressive to consider that all of these students are at the oldest, 18 years old. What a feat!
[One of the student designs]
May 31, 2011
by Julia DiNardo
I recently had the pleasure of giving a Hold Me Bag a test run, courtesy of the brand, and for once in a long time, my makeup felt organized. Although this bag is meant for travel, perhaps I will keep my day to day essentials in it, found in one place, so that I can easily move in between the bathroom and my vanity with everything conveniently located in one place (for once) There’s room for brushes, polish, makeup, and a roomy pouch that one could use for q-tips or cottonballs, but I thought would be a nice placeholder for my jewelry. Overall, one of my favorite parts of this bag, besides the fun printed lining, is the tie, which is modeled after a vintage schoolgirl’s book-bag. It’s nice because it let’s you expand as you need to, instead of having to attempt to jam everything and close the zipper without it breaking.
The Hold Me Bag retails for $55-$95, and can be purchased at HoldMeCompany.com.
–Julia DiNardo
May 29, 2011
by Julia DiNardo
I must tell you that I am a huge fan of any product that reduces the weight that I must carry, so right off the bat, I knew that the Tocca Stella SPF 30+ Sunscreen Towelettes had great potential to become everyday favorites, always found in my bag, come the warmer months.
Compliments of The Plaza Beauty, I patiently waited for a warm day to test out these wipes that are water and sweat resistant, clinically tested and hypoallergnic with broad spectrum. Now I must admit to a full on preoccupation with the towelettes, with 10 uses available in each pouch. Plus, Tocca knows how to give a fully aromatic experience with the infusion of Stella, their classic blood orange scent. Not tested on animals, no phthalates, lanolin, petroleum, or waxes but including vitamins E and B5, aloe, marine silk, and oak extracts makes the Tocca Stella SPF 30+ Sunscreen Towelettes a must!
The Tocca Stella SPF 30+ Sunscreen Towelettes are available for purchase for $24 at The Plaza Beauty , One West 58th Street at The Plaza Hotel’s Concourse Level. 212.223.4694.
