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Come shop WITH me at Amazon.com Collections

12 Jun

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

For years now, dearest loyal blog-readers, you have written in and asked me time and time and time again – “can you tell me what to buy?” “what do you think about…?” and “can you come shopping with me?”

40+I am flattered that you care that much about my opinion and furthermore, think of me as your go-to-style gal. Though, it is impossible for me to shop with all of you (but trust me, I want to!), I have some good news for you!

Now, thanks to Amazon.com – I can now share all of my best ideas, loves and style geniuses with you via “Collections“.

NeedIf you are looking for ideas for pretty much any occasion, day of the week or even gifting (albeit probably for yourself) – all you have to do is hit my fashionably friendly Collections – not only easy to access…if you like something I have picked, click the heart or better yet – add it right to your shopping cart and buy it (and then we can be fashion twins).

Happy Hunting!

My favorite Collections this week (please note – you have to log into YOUR Amazon.com account – or – create an account to view all my fancy fashion finds from designers like Tory Burch, John Varvatos, Milly, Marc Jacobs, 7 For All Mankind, Vivienne Westood, Rebecca Minkoff, Kenneth Cole, Philip Lim, Tom Ford, Tibi, Gucci, Prada, James and Elizabeth, Vince Camuto, Frye, Rachel Zoe, Eugenia Kim, Susana Monaco, House of Harlow, Giuseppe Zanotti, Kate Spade, Lacoste, Lily Pulitzer, Splendid and MORE…)

Emerald July HIM copy Super

 

cbelle signature

Gentlemen: Man Up, Suit Up and STYLE UP…

28 Mar

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

Attention all men, what does your hair say about you? Redken for Men can help you achieve the perfect hairstyle for your personality. And guess what, all you hotties out there – Redken is giving YOU the opportunity to get $7.50 off your next Redken for Men purchase, watch to the end of the video for more details!

Redken For Men Stand Tough Extreme Gel

Are you a Ryan Star type…Guitar in hand, touring with your band? Channel your inner rockstar with Stand Tough extreme hold gel to create sharp shape, definition and shine for a sculpted look.

Redken for Men Firm Grasp Texturizing Clay

Are you sporting Bradley Cooper’s five o’clock shadow and tousled hair?: For a more roughed up look apply Firm Grasp texturizing clay by rubbing a small amount through towel-dried or dry hair and shape for a relaxed, casual result.

Redken for Men Maneuver Working Wax

Are you Jon Hamm‘s doppelgänger (if yes, come directly to my apt, please, to have your hair styled personally by, moi!)?: Have a flair for the classic, well refined and defined persona? Well look no further! Maneuver working wax will allow you to achieve the iconic men’s hairstyle in two simple actions.

Style Made Simple….with the help of Redken for Men (BONUS: a ginormous discount!) – your welcome…now watch the vid below!

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Love Day Gift Guide HIM: 8 Days To Go

6 Feb Gift Guide Header for Vday

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

Vday HIM

It is February 6…and you have 8 full days to find the perfect gift for your special loved one…our top picks for HIM AND HER…EVERY DAY UNTIL D-DAY…I mean V-DAY!

FOR HIM: In honor of the five very talented (and very handsome) men of Reserved for Rondee (today’s distinguished Cool Peep(s) of the Week)…I dedicated this gift guide for “him” to RFR. Here are my top gift picks for these mega-talented (and oh, so sexy) musicians…

Leave all Valentine’s Day wishes for RFR in comments below – I promise to pass them along with a kiss (or 2 or 10…I’m crushin’ on them too, ya know)!

Trevor RFR2

Trevor Vaughn – RFR
Photo Credit: M. Di Giovanna

TREVOR
A few of his favorite things: “Besides universal love, I’d say imagination rocks pretty hard. I’m ruled by Venus so beautiful women obviously (like Christabelle). Can’t leave out a great steak & wine!”

Christabelle’s Gift Ideas for “your Trevor“:
…to help bring out his inner “Spidey” – *Silver Spider Tribal Leather Neck Rope from Stormy Road @ Etsy, $17.  And since he loves to fly around the room, maybe he also wants to fly around the sky, in a private **Helicopter flight lesson – Cloud 9 Living,$498. Pricey, yes…but worth it when he smiles for days as the adrenaline wears off.

*You are a good girlfriend
**You are an OFF THE CHARTS girlfriend

Nick RFR

Nick Fokas – RFRPhoto Credit: M. Di Giovanna

NICK
A few of his favorite things: “Well aside from my favorite blog, (this one), I’m addicted to Pawn Stars. I can sit and watch that show all day. And I have.”

Christabelle’s Gift Ideas for “your Nick“:
…if he has to go outside to smoke, he should smoke in style. If anyone can pull this off – he can. A  *Gothic Skull & Crossbones Cigarette Case @Etsy $48), filled with his favorites including a  Greek Blue Eye to protect him from the “evil eye”or μάτι. Orange you so in love with his musical side…? Sure you are and every guitar player needs a killer amp…enhance his artistic expressions (albeit to the dismay of your neighbors) with the **Orange Tiny Terror Combo Amp ($499+).

*You are a good girlfriend
**You are an OFF THE CHARTS girlfriend

Tom RFR

Tom Degnan – RFR
Photo Credits: M. Di Giovanna

TOM
A few of his favorite things: “Hugs, CC, Chuck Norris, Christmas, the music of the Frank Sinatra, Legos, family, friends, ND football and pork chop sandwiches.”

Christabelle’s Gift Ideas for “your Tom“:
…is he obsessed with all things football (especially at his college alma mater)? Well, he might not be able to make it to every home game…but you can bring the home game to him with these *Sterling Silver cufflinks expertly crafted from genuine Notre Dame stadium bleacher seating, $180.  Field seat tickets for him and a buddy on **opening day ($650+) and an unlimited gift card to Dave & Buster’s will be the applesauce on top of his Valentine’s Day pork chop sandwich!

*You are a good girlfriend
**You are an OFF THE CHARTS girlfriend

Warren RFR

Warren Hemenway – RFR
Photo Credits: M. Di Giovanna

WARREN
A few of his favorite things: “Twizzlers on the subway, coffee and a NY Post. Did anyone buy Hostess yet?? I’m dying for some freaking Ho-Hos!!!”

Christabelle’s Gift Ideas for “your Warren“:
…he’s an Animal on stage – the backbone of rhythm for the band on his drums and when you present him with a **Gretsch drum kit from the early 1970s, $1400, he will be your rhythm animal forever. Throw in a case of *Hostess Ho Hos…and some wet wipes to clean the chocolate prints off his *custom-made, personalized drumsticks from jerryswoodworks @Etsy, $55.

*You are a good girlfriend
**You are an OFF THE CHARTS girlfriend

Billy Magnussen - RFRPhoto Credits:

Billy Magnussen – RFR
Photo Credits: M. Di Giovanna

BILLY
A few of his favorite things: “I love all of u. Traveling!! Jumping through fire. Q-tips. Little puppies.”

Christabelle’s Gift Ideas for “your Billy“:
…he loves to be in the kitchen, so get cozy with him, playing with Pad Kee Ma during a *Thai cooking class at The Institute of Culinary Education ($120 p/p). After dining on the Asian delights you couples-cooked, surprise him with an  **8 -day adventure tour through Thailand with G Adventures, $649+. Give him the gift of exploration – in between kissing you, will be exclaiming “c̄hạn rạk ṭhex”!

*You are a good girlfriend
**You are an OFF THE CHARTS girlfriend

Now what are the gentlemen of RFR going to get for CC??? They have 8 days to figure it out…

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Love Day Gift Guide HIM: 10 Days To Go

4 Feb Gift Guide Header for Vday

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

Vday HIM

Art Manduca Billfold Kenneth Cole New York $98

It is February 4…and you have 10 full days to find the perfect gift for your special loved one…our top picks for HIM AND HER…EVERY DAY UNTIL D-DAY…I mean V-DAY!

FOR HIM: Does his current wallet have a ring mark on the outside from a condom he got in health class in the 7th grade. Trust me, it IS possible.  Lucky for you, we found a gorgeously, manly wallet from Kenneth Cole to replace it with. The Art Manduca Billfold by Kenneth Cole NY is a sophisticated billfold crafted from croco-embossed leather. With an elastic band, all his cards, bills and photos of you will  stay firmly in place. (two bill compartments and six card slots, Mylar insert with six additional slots included,4.25″ long, 3.25″ tall, imported, SRP $98).

I’m So Glad
You’re as Weird as Me Card
$4 JulieAnnArt @etsy

Are you both a little quirky? Do you color outside the lines and laugh at things no one else understands? Are you weird? Well, you are weird together and let him know how much you love that part of your relationship with this card from JulieAnnArt (trust me – he is sweating right now thinking that will be the sole reason why you break up with him some day!)

While you are on etsy – spin by our Vintage Shop…http://www.etsy.com/shop/ChristabellesCloset

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Love Day Gift Guide HIM: 12 Days To Go

2 Feb Gift Guide Header for Vday

By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset

Vday HIM

Orange Amp Custom iPhone case, $16
from aGoGoDesign on Etsy

It is February 2…and you have 12 full days to find the perfect gift for your special loved one…our top picks for HIM AND HER…EVERY DAY UNTIL D-DAY…I mean V-DAY!

FOR HIM: He might not be a rock star on the road, but he is YOUR rock star. Show him how much you dig his music and let him plug his iphone into this! A custom iPhone 4 case in the infamous Orange Guitar Amp design from aGoGoDesign on Etsy.

I Love You Even Though
You Fart In Your Sleep card, $3.25
by katndrewcards on Etsy

Yes, you will get brownie points (not as many for a REAL Orange amp), but your dude will be showing his buddies how cool his lady truly is.

Ladies, we know his towels on the bed and the toothpaste blobs in the sink drive you crazy, but THIS card will definitely let him know you are his for life…kat n drew cards on Etsy.

While you are on etsy – spin by our Vintage Shop…http://www.etsy.com/shop/ChristabellesCloset

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GO IRISH…BEAT ‘BAM-A

7 Jan christina carathanassis

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

GO IRISH!

The much anticipated BCS National Chamionship Game is tonight and I am ready to cheer on the FIGHTING IRISH!

2011_Notre_Dame_Mascot

My handmade SPIRIT GLOVES

You can take the girl away from the cheerleading squad, but you can NEVER take the cheerleader out of the girl (especially when that particular girl was a varsity cheerleader for 6 years of her life). I didn’t make it to Miami to watch the game live, so I will be watching under frigid winter conditions. Not to fear – I made a pair of “good luck” spirit gloves to help hail the Leprechauns to victory.

Tonight, let us all drink a bottle or two of Guinness Stout and perhaps down a shot of Jameson all in honor of NDFB and them bringing home the prize to South Bend…What are YOU doing for the big game (and you best be a ND fan!)…

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Reserve Me Some of THAT…

16 May

By Christabelle…@CBellesCloset

NYC Indie Rock Band, Reserved for Rondee: (l-r) Fokas, Hemenway, Degnan, Magnussen and Vaughn (front)

What do you get when you mix 5 New York City men, a roomful of instruments, a distinctly unique sound, a passion for music and, oh, did I mention five very handsome men already? What you have is the Manhattan based indie band Reserved for Rondee…an exhilarating rock-melodic treat for your soul. If you are looking for the hottest addition to the NYC music scene – look no further.

Reserved for Rondee is quickly rising the ranks as of one of New York City’s most beloved emerging bands…selling out at venues like the Lower East Side’s famed Arlene’s Grocery and Mercury Lounge. And though they might be sophomore in their number of years as a “band”, there is nothing juvenile about the sound they produce when they take to the stage. With inspiration that draws from “…classic artists like Led Zeppelin, the Beatles, U2 and contemporary artists like the White Stripes, the Black Keys and Arcade Fire, Reserved for Rondee blends imagination and style into a mystic rock journey”.  And they deliver on that…and then some.

Comprised of soap opera vets, guitarist Billy Magnussen and bassist Tom Degnan (whom you no doubt eyed on As the World Turns and One Life to Live), front man Trevor Vaughn, guitarist Nick Fokas and drummer Warren Hemenway – this group of artists is just as diverse as the music that emanates from deep within them. RFR delivers a variety of tunes, drenched in emotion and passion, wrapped up with a bow in a theatrical attention-getting performance; one that keeps you transfixed for the entire set.  The only complaint from the fans (including me!) – we want MORE.

Now you can help Reserved for Rondee  expand their musical portfolio by pledging to their “Kickstarter” fundraising platform. Pledge one dollar or one thousand, but help them meet their financial goal by May 25, 2012, so they kick it in the studio and keep the music alive for us all to enjoy…and in my case do a little more “Jersey headbanging” to.
CLICK HERE TO PLEDGE NOW!

Like them on Facebook  and Follow them on Twitter

Listen to some of their current tunes…

Lacoste…La Machine…Win a trip to NYC!

27 Aug

By Christabelle…

As if the famed Grand Central Station in the heart of NYC wasn’t artistically stunning on its own…come September 19th, Lacoste is adding another artistic twist to our beloved train station.

The big event you ask? LACOSTE’s largest celebration to date – the US launch of the men’s fragrance collection, EAU DE LACOSTE L.12.12.  This exciting collection will be brought to life with an audacious, high-tech campaign featuring La Machine L.12.12, a spectacular mechanical and virtual art installation that will be on display at the heart of New York’s Grand Central Station Terminal, September 19th – 27th, 2012.

The fragrance collection, EAU DE LACOSTE L.12.12 Blanc, Bleu and Vert Editions speak to the heritage and innovation of the LACOSTE brand as they transform the iconic shirt that launched the LACOSTE Empire, the L.12.12, into a trio of simple, elegant, and timeless scents.

La Machine L.12.12 is a unique interactive visual installation which shows that transformation of the shirt into a fragrance both mechanically (you can watch as a polo shirt is magically transformed into a bottle of EAU DE LACOSTE L.12.12), and virtually through special user-generated videos – 35,000 people around the globe will become part of the La Machine L.12.12 instillation for the world to see.

On 19th September 2011, LA MACHINE L.12.12 will be revealed in Grand Central Terminal, NYC – and now LACOSTE Facebook fans have the exclusive chance to be there.  LACOSTE is hosting a worldwide competition for a chance to win a trip to New York to attend the La Machine L.12.12 launch party.  CLICK HERE TO ENTER

Steve Nash & The Showdown in Chinatown…

21 Jun

By Christabelle…

You all know I am a sucker for a man in uniform…but add a man in uniform, who is giving of himself to help children in need…enter Steve Nash and the Steve Nash Foundation’s Showdown in Chinatown. Don’t you just love him? Yes, I heart him and all of his closest, legendary friends for volunteering their time and efforts to help kids…(insert my heart melting  a bit).

Now you can be a part of this gathering of who’s-who on the basketball and soccer world!

NBA stars. Soccer’s best. An urban field. A sweet 8-a-side game of futbol in the middle of a city benefiting children everywhere. Steve brings his passion to play in this innovative soccer match that any sports fan will love. Showcasing athletes from two sports, Showdown is the beautiful game at its most creative. With international NBA and professional soccer rosters that have included Steve Nash, Thierry Henry, Claudio Reyna, Tony Parker, Adrian Mutu, Grant Hill, Ivan Cordoba, Baron Davis, Javier Zanetti, Ryan Babel, Brandon Jennings, Salomon Kalou, Simone Sandri, Martin Nash, Mathieu Flamini, Edgar Davids and Chris Bosh, the Showdowns are events not to be missed!  The Showdown in Chinatown is a free-to-the-public event located in Sara D. Roosevelt Park (Chrystie Street and Stanton Street) on the Lower East Side of New York City.  There’s nothing like the Showdown. The Showdown in Chinatown is a FREE event. Bleacher seating and standing room are on a first-come, first-served basis

Showdown After Hours (the rockin’ after-party with Showdown players) tickets and Showdown gear are now available – click the links at right to get in on the action… . BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW for this epic after party…I DID and plan on rubbing elbows with some very special soccer and basketball players all evening (who will hopefully still be clad in uniform and perhaps a little dirty from the field – a girl can dream, can’t she?!)

If you can’t make the event, you can purchase a t-shirt or make a straight donation to help the Steve Nash Foundation and its efforts to help children across the US!

And a HUGE thanks and shout-out to the event sponsors and supporters  for making it all happen…Level Productions, Ortsbo, Modell’s, Adidas, vitaminwater, Hublot, NYC Parks, Indochino, The Promotion Factory, Bar Basque, The Penny Farthing , OneHope, Bulldog, Estrella, Voli Vodka, Big Screen Plaza, Upper 90 Sports and the Cooper Square Hotel.

I’M GOING TO SAKS…

21 Jun

By Christabelle…

Yes…it is something my friends and family hear quite a bit…I’M  GOING TO SAKS (i xo sfa!). But this week, I am going to join Details and Marc by Marc Jacobs for an exclusive night of shopping, cocktails, music by DJ Sammy Jo of the Scissor Sisters and a special performance by recording Artist Nikki Jean.

In a nutshell, I am getting to shop for my man at a discount, drink some amazing cocktails, hang with some fashion-friendly folks and jam out to some kickin’ tunes. Not bad for a Thursday evening…even better news…you can come to0!

Thursday, June 23, 2011

6 to 8

Fifth Avenue and 50th Street, NYC

Men’s Contemporary on Seven

To RSVP, email rsvp_details@condenast.comwith subject line: MARC

See you there!!

AND A SUPER PLUS TO SHOPPING ON THURSDAY…With any qualifying purchase of Marc by Marc Jacobs ready-to-wear, receive one of the following limited-edition gifts:*

  • A Marc by Marc Jacobs Michael Robert Collaboration baseball hat and beach towel for every $250 full-price

purchase or a Marc by Marc Jacobs Michael Robert Collaboration baseball hat, beach tower and rubber flip-flops for every $350 full-price purchase.

Marc by Marc Jacobs will donate 10% of all sales from the week To The Ali Forney Center for LGBT Youth. For more

Information, please visit www.aliforneycenter.org.

*One per customer, please. While supplies last. Must be 21 or older to attend.

Do You Have the Time?

5 Dec

By JackieBelle…

We all know that watches make great gifts, but when was the last time you went watch shopping?  Do you have any idea how many watches are out waiting to be purchased?  Have you Googled watches?  I have.  I have Googled watches and found that if you want to take the time to shop for watches, you will have 109 million search hits to choose from!  If you have that kind of time I wish you luck in your search, but I would not be a considerate fellow shopper if I didn’t warn you that the watch to time ratio is greatly askew- there are way more watches than there is time to sift through them!  So, in the spirit of my soon-to-be New Year’s Resolution to do at least one good deed per day I’m going to help you wade through the sea of watches and show you a just a few that on are this season’s most wanted list!

This is Not Your Daddy’s Watch

Casio has introduced a new Baby-G watch that is backed by Celebrity Stylist, Julie Weiss, judge on last year’s “Styl’D” on MTV.  Her feminine yet edgy signature style has graced such stars as Julianne Hough, Stacy Kiebler, Hilary Duff, Eva Longoria Parker and more.  Additionally, pop sensation Ke$ha recently signed on as Baby-G brand ambassador and will even be designing two watches for the brand due out this summer!  The Baby-G Vivid Metallic Series serves up five colors of metallic resin watches that are sure to brighten up the season.  The watches are a blend of street, sport and glamour, and they’re available in eye-catching, pearlescent color pairs, like metallic black with pink, metallic lime green with turquoise, metallic hot pink with purple, metallic orange with black and metallic silver with purple.  The collection combines fashion with supreme functionality with world time, daily alarms, stopwatch and countdown timer, shock resistance and 200 meter water resistance, and they’re made with comfortable resin bands and case with stainless steel accents.  Whether you’re looking for something feminine with a touch of edginess, something laid back with a hint of glam, or something trendy and sporty, Baby-G has what you’re looking for!

Available at fine retailers or at www.baby-g.com, suggested retail price $79

(BG1006SA Series)

This Could Be Your Daddy’s Watch

With impeccable timing for the holidays, CROW Watches is offering its unisex watches in six new colors that I promise you will have a hard time choosing from!  They’ve got Lip Red, Truffle, Lavender, Olive, Turquoise, and Bisque- I can save you some time here, too, and just let you know that they are all awesome!  My personal favorite is the Lush in Truffle.  And in Bisque.  And maybe in Turquoise!  The watches are made from silicone rubber, allowing each to be lightweight, flexible and water-resistant, and in addition to the six new colors, the old stand-by favorites of black, pink, orange, green, and orange are still available, too.  They feature a silicon skin-like strap, weigh a mere 2 ounces, and adjust to anyone’s wrist size with selectable 9-size straps that are secured with a ‘CROW’ etched clasp.  There is a CROW for you and everyone on your shopping list- the challenge won’t be finding one you like; it will be choosing just one!

At crowwatches.com and other select retailers, $49.99

It’s a Winter Wonderland- of Beauty!

17 Nov

By JackieBelle

For the Ladies…

Holidays are always a good time to get decked out, dressed up, and gorgeous!  When else can you wear tinsel and call it an accessory?  (Other than at your cousin Maria’s wedding reception, which we will not talk about- at least not until we get to the chapter on “Why Your Cousin Maria Doesn’t Call You Anymore.”)  A great way to begin your holiday season feeling beautiful is to start at your fingertips with a manicure in one of the specialty shades that only come around once a year.  Duri Cosmetics has a dazzling line of nail polishes that will help get you ready to celebrate the season in style!  With striking shades and fun, festive names like All That Glitters, Pure Ice, and Night Before Christmas, a holiday mani and pedi is the perfect way to feel festive right down to your toes!  Duri Cosmetics make great stocking stuffers, and they’re inexpensive enough that you could easily meet your office’s $10 limit for the Secret Santa Swap.  (Anybody who has ever received a flashlight-keychain combo or a decorative coffee mug filled with stale specialty tea knows how nice it is to receive a Secret Santa present that you actually like.)  You could even give one for each day of Chanukah and still have money left over to go out and show them off!

Let’s Not Leave the Guys Out in the Cold…

Ladies are not the only ones who want to get all buffed and beautiful for the holidays, and Hey Dude Skin Care has just the thing for guys who want to get in on the action.  Hey Dude is supplying today’s men with the skin care products they need to look and feel great- after all, mommy might not have been seen kissing Santa Claus if Santa didn’t take such good care of his skin!  Hey Dude’s premium line of products is designed to give the modern man the essential tools he needs to combat the natural effects of aging and external conditions affecting his skin, and since they are made and packaged especially for men, he won’t have to sneak around the gym locker room trying to hide his bottle of Lovely Lady Lotion or whatever lacy-soundy product he has been using.  Made from high quality organic ingredients like hyaluronic acid and essential nutrients, it’s a gentle way for guys to protect, repair, and maintain their skin, and because of the cold, dry air that comes with winter, it’s the perfect time for guys to begin a new skin care regimen- so bring them into the loop and let them know about Hey Dude, or wrap some up and give it as a gift!  Help the guys on your list go from Dud to Dude this holiday season and put some Hey Dude Skin Care on your winter shopping list!

A One-Size-Fits-All Gift for Men…

15 Nov

By JackieBelle

Little boys like to get toys for Christmas and Chanukah, and just because they’re all grown up doesn’t mean they don’t still like to get toys!  The difference is, the toys they want are no longer Matchbox cars and action figures; this year’s most coveted toy for men is workout gear, like the Kymaro Doorway Trainer.  Men & women view working out very differently.  For women, it’s all about the cardio with light weight training, but for men its about building muscle and strength.  If there’s a man on your holiday shopping list that wants the benefits of a great workout, but often can’t find the time to make it to the gym, the Kymaro Doorway Trainer is the perfect fit for him!  He can save himself a snowy, cold trip to the gym and stay home while still getting an excellent workout.

The Kymaro Doorway Trainer is the ultimate multi-function training bar that easily sits in any doorway.  This incredible machine is made for serious workouts to get ripped, strong and tough.  It strengthens the chest, arms, legs, glutes, shoulders, back and appears to be, and it is designed for deep push ups, extreme sit ups, and the perfect squats and dips.  It’s like an entire strengthening workout in a three-foot space, and anybody living in a teeny-tiny studio apartment or an overflowing suburban house knows the value of space!  This unit turns any doorway into an ultimate workout machine in just seconds, so you don’t have a big hulking machine sitting where your elegant little writing desk should be, and it doesn’t take a lot of time to set up- it’s instant!   It doesn’t cause damage to the doorway, which is a nice bonus, because how can the poor guy enjoy his new Fabio physique when he spends all his time cleaning scuff marks off the walls?  So don’t buy him another shoe horn that he won’t use or another “going-out” shirt that he won’t wear-he likes the one he bought in 1991 and has no plans to replace it.  Get him a toy this year that will be fun and will improve his health and make him feel great!

5-Step Father’s Day Makeover

14 Jun

For the Fatherly Fashion-Impaired…by Christabelle

I do love my dad…with all my heart. He is kind, warm, funny, generous, loving and most of all, well – MY dad :) . Amongst the endless list of attributes my dad owns (both good and bad), one of the most prevalent is fashion-retarded.  Yes, I said it out loud. The man can’t put an outfit together to savehis life and would spend the rest of his days on Earth very happily wearing one of two outfits if the ladies of the household would let him. This father’s day – give your dad a head to toe makeover like I am! Transform your already AMAZING dad into a GQ Model (I mean…he can’t be too far off…he just needs a fashionable finger or two to help).  With 5 easy steps…take your pop to a ‘whole notha level’!

Step One: Sh*t, Shower & Shave
Now he does probably conquers the three S’s  quite well on his own…but with some of my up-to-the minute beauty products in hand, he is sure to love the indulgence of bathroom time even more.

First order of business – the Poo. Ah, yes…the morning ritual that sends many a running when it is all said and done can quickly be a faint memory (thank goodness). Poo-Pourri is a must have product for anyone with the ability to create – well – stank (comon’ now…don’t be shy – even Angelina Jolie poops)!  Simply spritz the bowl before you go and no on else will ever know. Poo-Pourri is a blend of all natural essential oils that virtually eliminate (not mask) – ELIMINATE bathroom odors. Can I order a case of these pups for every bathroom in my home? The original citrus blend of lemongrass, bergamot, grapefruit and other oils can be purchased at PooPourri.com for $9.95 (2 oz. bottle) ; $14.95 (4 oz. bottle).  Other formulas available include No.2, HeavenScent, Royal Flush, Pooch-Pourri and Poo-Pourri Jr.

Changing the way men get clean, the new Pert Plus Men’s 3-1 (Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash IN ONE) was an obvious choice for my dad.  He likes to be as efficient as possible…doesn’t like too many steps to accomplish one end result and quite frankly doesn’t always think he needs all of the “bells and whistles” as he calls them.  Pert Plus for Men 3-1 not only got him squeaky clean from head to toe with just one bottle to squeeze from, but also provided a fast easy way to look and smell great. Available at Drugstore.com for $3.99 per bottle.

With Greek roots, you can imagine the roots his hair folicles keep.  My dad often resembles Fred Flintstone with his perma-5-O’Clock shadow.  That is why I was thrilled to find a fast, easy, affordable and portable classic shaving kit from Every Man Jack.  The EMJ Signature Shave Kitincludes a Pre-Shave Face Wash (coconut-derived surfactants to cleanse, chamomile extract to soothe and glycerineto hydrate and soften those pesky whiskers); Hydrating Formula ShaveCream (rich, low-foam cream softens and preps your beard for a more comfortable shave with the help of squalane, chamomile and aloe);  and Post Shave Lotion (deeply hydrates and helps to heal that razor irritated and nicked skin). The best part? All the EMJ products  fit neatly into a masculine designed dopp kit…perfect for stowing into luggage or into the medicine cabinet.  Available for purchase at target.com for an SRP of $9.99.

Step Two: No More Tightie Whities
He is clean, he is shaven and he is towel dried…the next step in the dad makeover is new undies! If your dad is anything like mine, his affection for tightie whities  must be stopped.  Give him the option to look cool and feel cool under his clothing with one of  Jockey’s newest underwear styles called Euro Sport CoolMax® Midway® Brief. Equipped with this underwear, he’ll be ready to take on any adventure. The high-tech Coolmax® fabric is lightweight and quick drying; helping to keep him cool while on-the-go. This style offers a lower rise at the waist with leg openings extending to mid-thigh to help reduce chafing. The plush backed waistband eliminates irritation as he moves. The contoured pouch provides support while the contrasting green piping adds a touch of style. We likey! Available for sale at Jockey.com for a $16.00 each.

Step Three: Dad Jeans Be Gone
You have all seen them…at times they are almost as bad as “mom jeans”…they are straight leg, pegged at the ankles, sometimes even bearing the name of a company that is no longer in existence! They are his proverbial “woobie” …you know what I am talking about. His butt is imprinted in them – as is his wallet impression. My dad actually does NOT have this particular problem, as he DOES NOT OWN A PAIR OF JEANS. That is all changing this Father’s Day…since I came across a new jean company that is both hip, trendy, well made and reasonably priced for luxurious, high-end denim.  Enter Cult of Individuality jeans.
Cult of Individuality
prides itself on jeans that remind men of their favorite old pair (you get where I am going with this?).   They’re weathered, worn, and personal (wink*wink).  Inspired by classic cuts and vintage washes, incorporating Japanese denim, Cult of Individuality jeans are designed to look and fit like you’ve had them for years (i.e. throw out the old and insert the “new” but feels like old). Now dad CAN be comfortable and be in-style – he will never know what hit him . Available for sale at Tobi.com for $135
Top this pair of  jeans with a smart looking shirt from ChristabellesCloset.com (such as this tan split vent THEORY shirt, $40) and the look is almost complete!

Step Four: Hip to the Toes
Dad’s need it all – comfort while he is on his feet, style and sense of individuality. Two words…Auri Footwear. Out of Laguna Beach, CA (which in itself makes it uber-cool),  Auri is an exclusiveve line of footwear designed especially for men. Auri shoes will keep dad’s feet happy whether he is walking, working or even climbing a mountain.

Auri artfully mastered the shoe design that is truly comfortable all day. The Auri footwear collection will keep feet comfortable from the first second they’re on, until he slides them off at the end of the day. With Auri’s stylish collection, there’s no need to change into or out of work shoes or going out shoes ever again: One pair of Auri’s will carry you throughout the entire day. This collection is not only stylish, it’s smart. With moisture wicking, antimicrobial attributes, and temperature regulation, Auri surpasses competitors by a landslide. Forward thinking, Auri worked with NASA (yes, we said NASA) to develop this state of the art shoe technology. These stylin’ kicks are shock absorbent with arch support, not to mention lightweight. The speed of life won’t wait for anyone, so wherever the day takes him, your dad will be able to count on his Auri‘s. Our favorite style for dad? The Auri Gigolo in Burnished Tan (see photo), available for sale at AuriFootwear.com for $200.

Step Five: A Toast to Dad
Now that he has his new look, toast the transformation! Introduce your dad into a new world of liqueur with TY KU Premium Liqueur. The perfect blend of traditional Asian spirits with delicious superfruits and teas.  Clean and crisp with refreshing citrus flavor profile,TY KU combines premium natural ingredients including: yuzu (vitamin C), mangosteen (antioxidants), Tibetan goji berry (18 amino acids & vitamins), honeydew (potassium & vitamin C), green tea (antioxidants) and ginseng, all harmoniously blended with soju, alow calorie, low carb and low sugar liqueur that is delicious chilled straight, on the rocks or combined with a myriad of other spirits! Your dad will be in good company when he takes a sip of  TY KU as celebrity fans of this five-star liqueur include Jay-Z, Gisele Bundchen, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jessica Biel, Jeremy Piven, John Mayer, Jessica Simpson, Terri Hatcher and Jennifer Garner.  While dad pours himself a glass of TY KU (SRP $35) premium “booze with benefits” (only 72 calories, 3.6 carbs and 0 fat per serving)…the illuminating bottle (the only one of its kind) will be sure to take him by surprise - the finale in the father’s day makeover extravaganza!

The metamorphosis is complete – did your dad survive his 5-steps to Father’s Day Fabulous? Let us know!

Take Me Out to the Ballgame…

13 Jun

For your Home Run Hitting Dad…by Carlibelle

Some of the best memories of me and my dad were hitting Yankee Stadium for an afternoon weekend game of baseball and daddy/daughter bonding.  I, in my over-sized baseball cap and hot dog bigger than my head and dad, sporting his Yankee jersey, throwing popcorn on me whenever someone scored a run. With busy work and home life schedules, dad I and don’t get to watch the games much anymore, but the passion for the sport still lives strong. That is why I preserved our love of the game this year with a personalized bat from Louisville Slugger.

Now, Louisville Slugger can put anyone’s name (or even their actual signature) on a bat, along with a line or two of a personal message (Father of the Year Award, #1 DAD, Slug it Out, etc.).  What sports fanatic wouldn’t love to see their name engraved in a genuine, full size, wooden, hand crafted baseball bat…include their favorite team logo and you are sure to have a HOME RUN present on your hands. Louisville Slugger Major League Logo Bats make great gifts for not only Father’s Day, but for groomsmen, birthdays, anniversaries, coaches, team awards, or celebrations of any kind. Available in the same finishes the Major Leaguers use, and in full sizes, youth, tee ball, and mini bat versions. Get this one…they even have a “Baby’s First Bat” (available in pink and blue!)  – what a PERFECT shower gift for your bun-in-the-oven friend.

Available for purchase at www.sluggergifts.com - priced from $62 – $82 depending on personalization.

And as an added bonus, sprinkle your Louisville Slugger with a bit of baseball nostalgia with an exact replica, vintage baseball glove from Akademapro.com.  As part of their Hoboken Glove series, you can now own a remake of the 1929 Babe Ruth RFO Reach snap back mitt. Play ball like ‘the babe’ – the old school game with an old school glove. What a great add to your sports collection in your home or office! Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and is available in right or left hand throw.  Available for purchase at Akademapro.com for $80. Also available in Yogi Berra, Lou Gehrig, Dazzy Vance and Bob Feller.

Batter up this Father’s Day with Louisville Sluger and Akadama Professional!

HUB-A-LICIOUS

12 Jun

For your Scratch ‘N’ Sniff Hubby…by AliBelle

There is truly nothing sexier than the scent of my man after he puts on his cologne.  It wafts through the house, making it feel like he is still here, even hours after he has left for the office. His scent continues to warm my nose, ever so faintly, reminding me of him all day and creating quite a desire for him to return. My choice for father’s day gifts for him this year?  You guessed it…a little splash of fragrance to keep him smelling divine and me smiling from ear to ear!

Put a little swagger in his step this Father’s Day with Sean “Diddy” Combs’ latest fragrance I Am King.   The handsome Father’s Day gift set includes the I Am King Fragrance and an Aftershave Balm. Defined by unique masculine freshness, sparkling fruits, and sensual woods, Sean John’s I Am King creates a new signature for modern men. The power begins with an explosion of exotic intensity. Handcrafted notes of tangerine zest, juicy orange, and succulent cranberry blend with exclusive Imperial French Berry, instantly creating magnetic attraction and an element of surprise. A decadent center of the finest Kir Royal cocktail exudes European sophistication with its layers of crème de cassis and premium champagne. Cooling Mediterranean water accord channels the crystal blue sea of the Côte d’Azur. Layers of key lime pie and lemon crème mix into an unexpected background of juxtaposed light and dark elements. An embrace of rich precious woods and powdery undertones convey an air of elegance and smooth, skin-like warmth.

The gift set retail for $75.00 ($128 VALUE) and is available at department stores nationwide or online at www.shopseanjohnfragrances.com.

The Cereus Fragrance Collection is a series of high-end men’s (Pour Homme) fragrances appealing to its customers’ modern perspective, viewed through a lens steeped in tradition. Each unique scent ($125) in the series of fragrances (differentiated by a number and corresponding color) appeals to a different type of man and is contained in a clean, glass bottle with a natural wooden cap. Cereus #11 is my personal favorite – pure luxury and rare, refined elements combine to evoke a modern masculinity that strikes the perfect balance of crisp freshness and sensual depth. The arresting chill of iced anise creates a distinctive signature. followed by fresh notes of gimlet, brisk juniper berry and cracked black pepper. A whisper of pure platinum musk echoes through a forest of rare, gentle woods to evoke a timeless sophistication. Can we say delicious? Yes, we can.

The entire Cereus Fragrance Collection is available exclusively at Barneys New York – BarneysNewYork.com

Pop-O-Bama

11 Jun

For your White House Bound Pop…by Christabelle

Do you think your dad would be the greatest President to run this country? Me too. But before you step onto your soap box and start campaigning for the 2012 election…check THIS out first – the ULTIMATE gift for dad this year. The Jorg Gray 6500, the watch worn by President Obama himself! That might be as close you get to the white house (at least in time for Father’s Day).

Obama received the Jorg Gray 6500 watch as a gift from his Secret Service detail on his 46th birthday, and hasn’t taken it off since.  He has been photographed wearing the watch on such historic occasions as his presidential election victory speech, the inaugural swearing-in ceremony and inaugural balls, and the signing of his first Presidential Proclamation.  To memorialize the historic inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States, Jorg Gray created a commemorative edition of the watch

This sophisticated time piece has fast become a highly sought after and valuable collector’s item. With its sleek design, luxurious fit and feel – it is no wonder the President has chosen the Jorg Gray 6500 as his timepiece of choice. And now your father can wear the exact one!

The Jorg Gray JG6500 watch is case cut from solid steel and features a matte black dial, Italian buffalo leather strap, high precision Japanese chronograph movement, scratch-resistant mineral crystal, date display, and is water resistant to 100 meters. Each commemorative Edition watch comes with the following inscriptions laser engraved on the back case and an individual serial number “The 44th President of the United States –  Barack H. Obama – January 20th 2009 – Commemorative Edition”.

This is a gift for dad will be one he appreciates for decades to come and one that will hold a historic and sentimental place in his heart forever.  Available at JorgGray.com in silver $325 (shown in photos) and rose gold $395.

Luke…I Am Your Flash Drive

10 Jun

The Sith Lords Arrive in YOUR Port…by Elizabelle

Daerth 1My husband thinks he is Luke Skywalker…light saber and all. My sons think they are Clone Troopers. I think my dog Hitchcock might even believe he is a 4-legged Chewy.  As the only female in my household…I have a choice to either roll my eyes and quietly ponder how THIS DEEP SEATED LOVE my mate has for Star Wars was conveniently hidden during our courting period…or I can embrace it and ‘let the force be with me’.

I pick the latter of the two. I am surprising my “men” this year for Father’s Day and for End-of-School Graduation with STAR WARS™ MIMOBOT Series 4collection of designer USB flash drives (featuring Darth Maul, multiple Darth Vaders and Clone Captain Rex – which I hear, through the grapevine…is pretty damn cool)!

Mimoco’s STAR WARS MIMOBOT line of designer flash drives will explore the dark side with an all-new collection, featuring fan favorite Sith Lords and new versions of classic designs. In addition to the previously announced Darth Maul design, the fourth installment of the popular USB devices will also include a re-imagining of the original MIMOBOT series’ centerpiece – Darth Vader. The new Darth Vader Unmasked MIMOBOT features a removable helmet, underneath which lurks the scarred countenance of Anakin Skywalker, as played by Hayden Christensen. For added excitement, one in six Darth Vader MIMOBOT drives will unveil “chase” variants of Anakin’s face from Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi – older, paler and at peace, having come to terms with his estranged son Luke.

darth 2Rounding out STAR WARS MIMOBOT Series 4is one of the stand-outs from Lucasfilm Animation’s Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated television series. Clone Captain Rex – leader of the 501st Clone Trooper Legion’s Torrent Company and Anakin Skywalker’s right-hand officer – has quickly become a fan favorite due to his prominence in the series, which airs on Cartoon Network. When removed, Rex’s MIMOBOT trooper helmet reveals the gruff but good-natured Captain’s scowling face beneath.

MIMOBOT designer USB flash drives are available in 1GB to 16GB memory capacities and are bundled with preloaded digital extras to enrich one’s personal desktop experience. STAR WARS MIMOBOT Series 4includes exclusive STAR WARS-themed wallpapers, screensavers, icons, and avatars. MimoByte™ sound software rounds out the desktop suite and plays character-specific STAR WARS sound clips from the film’s master audio tracks.

Bring a Mimobot home to your galaxy…mimobot.com, starting at $19.95

Triple Play for his Special Day…

6 Jun

Why Let Mom Have All The Fun?…by Christabelle

For Father’s Day, this year send him the gift of flowers! Imagine how pleasantly suprised he will be when he opens the front door and sees this lovely “man-bouquet” of flowers specially delivered TO HIM. And imagine how good he will feel, when he knows that your purchase for him helps to support a cause that is close to his heart?  Sounds like a homerun to me!

Teleflora is teaming up with the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) to help raise awareness for prostate cancer and raise funds for research with Teleflora’s new baseball-themed bouquets, Big Hit and Play Ball (a portion of proceeds will be donated to the PCF!).  The arrangements arrive in oversize ceramic baseball mugs with either red carnations or a combination of carnations, delphinium, lilies, and chrysanthemums. A triple-play winner for Dad, this bright bouquet gives him fresh flowers in an oversized baseball mug AND the chance to win a 3-day all-expense paid trip and other great baseball prizes.

Your ballgame loving dad will LOVE this realistically detailed, oversized ceramic baseball mug…he will be drinking coffee from it for years to come – thinking of you with every sip of morning java. 

Bouquet is approximately 11 1/4” W X 14 1/2” H and is available at TeleFlora.com  for $46.95 (for a few bucks more – you can send along a balloon and some chocolate to pops too)!

You Sunk My Battleship!

4 Jun

Pretty Sneaky Sis…by Anabelle

Remember family night when you were little?  Everyone sat around the table and played board games over a pizza. Ahhh…those were certainly the days. Give dad the gift of time travel (or at least a simulated one!) and flood him with favorite family past-times with Hasbro!

This year, skip the tie and give your dad a gift that he, and your entire family, can enjoy all year long! Whether he would like to test his strategic thinking with Risk, try to sink ships with Battleship or go head-to-head to get 4 in a row with Connect 4, Hasbro offers several great gift options for any father this season:
 
RISK gets a new look and feel this year with an updated map, new rules and faster action. Planning and executing strategic military campaigns has never been more intense as modernized rules streamline playing time to a fast and furious 90-minutes. RISK is recommended for 3-5 players ages 12 and up, and is available for an approximate retail price of $27.99.
 
The classic tactical combat game, BATTLESHIP, has been redesigned for 2009 to add more adventure and excitement to the ship-sinking game. Naval warriors plot their coordinates and mark hits and misses on a double-sided grid as they try to defeat their enemy’s fleet and rescue their crew. BATTLESHIP is recommended for 2 players ages 7 and up for an approximate retail price of $19.99.
 
CONNECT 4, the original four-in-a-row game, has gotten a makeover with new red and yellow checkers and three ways to play in 2009. This update to the classic game gives players more competition and more fun with the option to play the traditional game, as well as “Pop Out” and “Pop 10” which involve popping checkers out of the grid instead of dropping them into the top of the game board. CONNECT 4 is recommended for 2 players ages 6 and up for an approximate retail price of $14.99.

These games and more are available for purchase at TOYSRUS.COM and other mass retailers.

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