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Sex and the City 2: Looks for Less

May 21, 2010 by karabirkenstock

Every woman can relate to the four amazing characters in Sex and the City, from their fab fashion sense to their eclectic views on life and love.   With the release of the sequel due out on May 27th, I’ve broken down each characters style, while also shedding some light on what we can expect in the new movie.  Which SATC character are you?  Once you’ve figured that out, I’m also sharing some amazing GAL finds to help you achieve the SATC look for less!

Carrie – The Ultimate Fashionista

Carrie is the Ultimate Fashionista!  A trendsetter at heart, Carrie rocks her look with confidence and sex appeal.  Always a lover of designer frocks and shoes, Carrie makes every look her own by mixing and matching the old with the new.  Her choices always make a statement, from her signature nameplate necklace, flower pin and Manolo Blahniks, to her exotic and glamorous spin on the Middle East in the new SATC2!  Will she fall head over heels for Aidan in Abu Dhabi, or run back to Big’s arms in the Big Apple?

Get Carrie’s movie poster look for less!  White jersey dress from XOXO, $59.  Gold aviator sunglasses from Shop4Sparkles, $36.  Gold sequined pumps from Zappos, $65. 

Miranda – Functional Fashion

Miranda is a practical woman on the go!  As a successful lawyer and mother, Miranda opts for Functional Fashion choices in her everyday life, from sleek suits and sheath dresses to comfy heels.  In the new SATC2, Miranda has an opportunity to have fun with fashion, mixing color, jewels and embellished sandals in to her repertoire.  How will Steve and Brady live without her while she’s away with the girls?

Get Miranda’s vacation look for less!  Charity dress in kiwi from Mata Traders, $59.  Gladiator flat sandals from Zappos, $55.  Beaded cuff and teardrop earrings from Afaze.com, both $8.

Samantha – Sexy & Sassy

Samantha is always Sexy & Sassy!  Her look is bold and extremely body conscious.   As a power publicist by day, Samantha always finds a way to spice up her outfit, from statement pieces to bold colorful heels.  In Abu Dhabi, we’ll see Samantha turn up the heat in form fitting dresses, bling-y blouses and dazzling jewelry!  Newly single after her split with Smith, will Samantha find new love in a foreign land?

Get Samantha’s sexy look for less!  Orange/pink paisley caftan top, $30, gold textured bangles, $8, fuchsia rectangle stone ring, $8, all from Afaze.com.  Gold Rylee heels from DSW, $39.95. 

Charlotte – Chic & Classic

Charlotte is always Chic & Classic!  A hopeless romantic, Charlotte is the epitome of Park Avenue elegance.  Charlotte’s look is refined, with feminine details and anything that makes her feel like a princess.   On a much needed vacation in the new SATC2, Charlotte lets loose with colorful tops, printed maxi dresses and exotic accessories.  Will absence make the heart grow fonder for Charlotte and her family?

Get Charlotte’s looks for less!  Audrey cherry cupcake apron from Jessie Steele, $33.  Halter print maxi dress from XOXO, $59.  Gold filigree drop earrings from Afaze.com, $6.  White beaded peacock gladiators from Shiekh Shoes, $24.

Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Sex and the City 2, Shoes, Style Tips | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

A Day on Set: Red Mountain Resort & Spa Photo Shoot

May 19, 2010 by karabirkenstock

I’m in beautiful St. George, Utah this week, shooting for the Red Mountain Resort & Spa!  I have to admit, before this trip I had never heard of this town.  But after spending a few days at this resort, I can see why people love it here – hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, yoga and pilates, not to mention great food!  Stay tuned for a GAL Travel post on my trip to St. George.  Here are some pics from the photo shoot, doing Tai Chi at sunrise, and with the cast!

Posted in A Day in the Life, Travel | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

GAL Find of the Week: Men

May 17, 2010 by karabirkenstock

Men’s Fashion Items from $5.90

21Men is the new, fashionably affordable line for men from the folks who brought us Forever 21.  From basics and graphic tees to outerwear and accessories, men can stock up for Summer with unbelievable prices starting as low as $5.90.  Have you shopped at 21Men?  If anything like its female counterpart, it should be a great one stop shop for trendy item pieces and seasonal finds.  To see more, visit http://www.forever21.com/21men/. 

 

Posted in Fashion, GAL Find of the Week, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Style Tips | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments »

Celebrity Beauty Secrets

May 14, 2010 by karabirkenstock

Do you ever wonder how your favorite Hollywood stars manage to look so flawless, from their glamorous hair and makeup down to their perfect skin?  While we’re all not fortunate enough to have a team of makeup artists and stylists on speed dial, there are some amazing products available that can help give us the Hollywood look for less.  I reached out to some of my friends in the biz and they shared the following Celebrity Beauty Secrets – with these insider favorites, we can all look like we’re walking the red carpet!

1.       Mai Couture 2-1 Oil Blotting/Bronzing Papiers

           $33.00

           www.maicouture.com

For flawless, airbrushed looking skin like Jennifer Lopez and The Kardashians, try Mai Couture’s 2-1 Oil Blotting/Bronzing Papiers.  This handy, compact beauty fix is a must have for all red carpet vets.  Carry these babies in your purse and get camera ready in a flash – gently press the papers on your face and instantly eliminate oil and shine while applying just the right amount of shimmer to give you that sun-kissed glow!  These booklet style papers are perfect for on the go touch ups anywhere, anytime.  The 100 sheet booklet comes with a chic Papier Wallet, so you can go glam in style!  The papers come in two shades, light to medium and medium to dark, and refills are just $25. 

2.       ROHTO Eye Drops

           $6.99

           www.cool4eyes.com

Want to party all night like Lady Gaga and Rihanna, but still look well rested in the morning?  Makeup artists to the stars and supermodels alike swear by ROHTO Eye Drops.  These unique drops contain a cooling kick that perks up eyes while removing redness.  A drop or two will do you – a few minutes later, your eyes will look like bright, refreshed, and ready for a new day!  There are four products in the ROHTO line – new Hydra, Cool, Ice and Arctic. For newcomers to the line, start with Cool (the mildest) and then work your way up to the other varieties.  ROHTO eye drops are the quickest and easiest way to get rid of tired, red eyes, so your whites can be their brightest!  ROHTO drops are sold at drugstore.com and retailers nationwide.  (Note to contact lens wearers – wait 15 minutes before putting your contacts on after using ROHTO drops)

3.      Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

           $17.00

           www.mariobadescu.com

Have an unexpected breakout?  Clear it up overnight with Mario Badescu’s Drying Lotion!  Hollywood stars like Jennifer Aniston and Ashley Judd have known about this amazing potion for years and it is hands down, the best acne spot treatment on the market.  Just dab a bit of the pink sediment lotion directly on the blemish before bed, let dry and rinse in the morning.  The blend of Calamine and Salicylic Acid clears and soothes breakouts overnight.  This product is great for preventing breakouts too – as soon as you feel a blemish coming, dab this on to zap it away!  Mario Badescu’s Drying Lotion is AMAZING!

4.      Smith’s Rosebud Salve

          $6.00

          www.sephora.com

Smith’s Rosebud Salve is a must have staple for celebrity makeup bags, from Eva Longoria to Katherine Heigl.  This super-versatile salve moisturizes lips, and is the perfect primer for the hottest lipsticks and glosses.  Before any photo shoot or walk down the red carpet, stars prep their lips with this 100-year-old remedy, which is also a quick fix for burns, dry elbows, and even diaper rash!  The best part is, Rosebud Salve is only $6 and comes in a variety of flavors including Rosebud, Menthol, Minted Rose, Brambleberry, and Strawberry.

5.      New York Fashionista Emergency Kit by K.I.S. Kits

          $24.99

          www.kiskits.com

Be prepared for any and all fashion emergencies with K.I.S. Kit’s New York Fashionista Emergency Kit!  Stylists to the stars are always prepared – you never know when you will need to correct a wardrobe malfunction!  With this eco-friendly kit, you’ll have everything you’ll need to fix and tame hems, cuffs, bra straps, sling-back shoes, peekaboo clothes, gaping necklines, missing buttons, shorten pants, lapels, bulging pockets, split seams, keep strapless tops in place, and even de-wrinkle and freshen fabrics!  The New York Fashionista Emergency Kit includes the No-Iron Crease Removing Mist, Seam Saver, Presto Buttons, Double Sided Fashion Tape, and a Mini Shoe Shine Sponge, all in a stylish clear travel case so you will always arrive runway ready!

Posted in Beauty, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Style Tips | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments »

Sex and the City 2: Team Aidan or Team Big?

May 12, 2010 by karabirkenstock

The much anticipated sequel to the Sex and the City movie is due out in 16 days!  If you’ve seen the latest preview, it looks like the one that got away is making an appearance – yes, that’s right, Aidan is back! 

It’s interesting how differently people feel about these two characters.  Sexy boy next door vs. tall, dark and handsome.  Aidan was a true romantic and always showered Carrie with love,  while Big was Carrie’s Prince Charming, no matter how many times he did her wrong.  While many seem to be worried that Aidan could throw a wrench in the married couples works, I’m more than excited to see what plays out in the sequel.  Have we forgetten about all the times that Big broke Carrie’s heart, including the last (and final in my opinion) major flub, when he left her at the alter!?

What are your thoughts – are you routing for Aidan or Big in SATC2?

Posted in Sex and the City 2 | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment »

GAL Find of the Week: Women

May 10, 2010 by karabirkenstock

Sexy Bikini Tops for $4.95!

It’s never too early to stock up on swimwear with summer just around the corner!  H&M recently launched a fabulous collection of bikini tops starting at $4.95!  The bold colors, striking prints, and seriously sexy cuts will get you in the mood for those lazy days ahead, on the beach or poolside!  Available in stores now, something tells me that they won’t last – for locations, visit http://www.hm.com/us/ .

Posted in Fashion, GAL Find of the Week, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Style Tips | Leave a Comment »

Top 5 Fashion Must Haves For Spring

May 7, 2010 by karabirkenstock

The coming of Spring means warmer weather, cooler clothes, and sexy shoes!  But recently, with the entire country experiencing unpredictable weather, most of us don’t know whether to pack away our winter boots yet or not!?  I thought April Showers brought May Flowers?  While I can’t forecast the weather, I do have a solution for the wacky weather blues – I’ve put together a list of the Top 5 Fashion Must Haves for Sunny Spring! Hopefully, it will get us inspired, motivated, and fashionably ready for the warmer months ahead!

1.  A Flirty Floral Dress

Nothing says Spring better than a sweet and sexy floral dress. Whether it’s a mini, A-line, or sheath, a flirty floral dress is all you will need to get out of the Winter blues.  These dresses are versatile – go casual for daytime with flats and a cardigan, or dress it up for nighttime with jewelry and sexy strappy heels.  These multicolored frocks make pairing shoes and accessories easy, so don’t be afraid to have fun with color!  Another perk – this season’s floral dresses will take you right in to Fall.  Pair with tights, boots, and a bomber jacket and you’ll look hot, even when the weather has cooled off. 

Floral Tank Dress $57 (Vintage Havana)

2.  Neutral Nude Heels

Every woman has their favorite pair of black heels – your go to shoes if all else fails. Well, after you see this season’s neutral nudes, you might reconsider which pair you grab for next.  Hollywood starlets have known the secret of nude heels for years.  Not only do they elongate your legs (what could be better than that?), but they easily pair with everything, from a classic suit, sexy dress, to jeans and a tee.  Nude shoes are simple, sophisticated, and most importantly, not overpowering. They finish your look, while letting the rest of your outfit shine.  As much as I love statement shoes, these new neutrals are just perfect and are a definite must have for Spring.  After all, nude never goes out of style!

Restricted Ashlee Patent Leather Pump $49.95 (DSW Shoes)

3.  Hot Handbags

The must have handbags this season are sugar and spice, and everything nice! From bold studs and hardware to sweet ruffles and rosettes, there is something for every personality!  Must have shapes for everyday are the satchel and hobo – roomy and fashionable purses perfect for work or going shopping with the girls. And no woman is complete without a great clutch – these are perfect for your date night necessities and look amazing with the season’s sexiest dresses!

SM Baby Rose Wristlet $24.95 (DSW Shoes)

4.  Layered Necklaces

It’s amazing how jewelry can transform an outfit from OK to Ooh La La! The lovely layered necklaces of the season do just that, taking you from day to night in one simple step.  The relaxed, bohemian vibe of these pieces glam up your outfit without overdoing it.  Go for an all in one necklace like this one from Express, or use what you have to make the most of your existing accessories.  Chains in silver and gold, strands of pearls, gems or rhinestones – whatever you’re in the mood for, you can’t go wrong this season when you layer it up!

Layered Chain & Stone Necklace $26.50 (Express)

5.  A Colorful Scarf

The last must have for Spring is the ultra versatile scarf.  It’s a tried and true fashion staple that all women must own. This season’s scarves are luxe and light weight – and with tons of color options available, you might want to stock up for the rest of the year.  Don’t know how to dress up your jeans and tank? Wrap a bold scarf around your neck to add a burst of color.  Don’t feel like wearing a sweater on your date tonight? Throw your scarf around your shoulders for a sexy cover up.  Other handy and fashionable uses? Check out my Summer Beach Bag Essentials lineup, coming soon!

Ombre Scarf $19.50 (Express)

Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, Style Tips | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment »

A Day on Set: Exxon Mobil Commercial

May 5, 2010 by karabirkenstock

I had a blast over the weekend shooting a commercial for Exxon Mobil!  The spot will air in Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Singapore – that’s why I’m sitting/driving on the right side of the car!  Here are some photos from the set and with my co-stars;  Edmund Sung, Wendy Lam, Kelly Pendygraft, Christina Moses, Vera Kopp, Maria Esquivel, and Gonzalo Vargas.

Posted in A Day in the Life | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

GAL Find of the Week: Women

May 3, 2010 by karabirkenstock

Fashionable Spring Scarves for $5!

Walmart is carrying a colorful array of scarves priced at $5!  Available in classic plaids, lively paisleys and romantic three-tone ombres, these incredibly chic and lightweight scarves can be worn to the beach, to the office or out on the town.  Stock up now!  Only available in stores – for locations visit www.walmart.com . 

Blue Ombre Scarf at Walmart

Posted in Fashion, GAL Find of the Week, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Style Tips | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment »

Mother’s Day Gifts That Give Back

April 30, 2010 by karabirkenstock

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, many of us will be shopping to find the perfect gift for Mom.  Looking for a unique and meaningful gift used to mean flowers and chocolates.  While these gifts are thoughtful, this year you might consider giving Mom a gift that gives back.  A quick search on the Internet for charitable gifts will bring up a huge assortment of non-profits and organizations to support, with many offering beautiful crafts, jewelry, or other keepsakes as a token of appreciation.  Here are a few that really caught my eye:

1.      Trees for a Change

         Personalized Tree Gift – $35

Trees for a Change is an organization that plants trees as gifts in U.S. National Forests that have been destroyed by wildfire.  With the Personalized Tree Gift, a tree will be planted by the U.S. Forest Service in an area that is desperate for reforestation.  Mom will receive a personalized tree planting certificate, a gift card with your personal message, her name recorded on the Tree Gift Registry, and online access to photos and information where the tree was planted.   


2.      Project Mother’s Day

         “Inner Strength” Necklace – $45

Founded by Solstice Designs, Project Mother’s Day creates hand crafted necklaces to give to children in the care of domestic abuse shelters across the country.  The children in turn give the necklaces as THEIR gift to Mom on Mother’s Day.  Solely funded by donations from friends, clients, and the community, Project Mother’s Day is now in its fifth year.  In 2009, Solstice Designs handcrafted 400 necklaces that were provided to 13 shelters across the country.  $5 from the sale of each piece is donated to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).  The 18 inch sterling box chain necklace holds a handcrafted trio of silver rings. The inner ring is etched with the word Strength, and gently protected by two delicately hand-textured silver rounds. The “Inner Strength” Necklaces  are shipped wrapped and ready for Mom, with an enclosure card describing the donation.

3.      Give Love Foundation & Satya Jewelry

          Hope Love & Healing Necklace for Haiti – $38

Actress Patricia Arquette (NBC’s Medium) has partnered up with the Give Love Foundation and Satya Jewelry to create the Hope, Love, & Healing Necklace for Haiti.  Designed to raise money for the children and families of Haiti, the founders’ hopes are to rebuild the communities, homes and livelihoods of those displaced in the earthquake.  Turquoise, soothing blue and natural, is the stone of healing. Paired with sterling silver hand-cast charms, the necklace bring hope and love to all that wear it, especially Mom!  The Satya Foundation donates 100% of the proceeds from this necklace to the Give Love Foundation. 

4.      ECPAT-USA

          Soft Hands Kind Heart Hand Cream – $10

          Tassa Tag – $12

ECPAT, which stands for End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children, is an international organization working to eliminate the commercial sexual exploitation of children around the world.  By purchasing their Soft Hands Kind Heart Hand Cream, sold exclusively at The Body Shop, Mom will support the many children suffering across the globe from sex trafficking.  $6 from every purchase of this limited edition hand cream will be donated directly to ECPAT-USA.  They have also created the Tassa Tag, which stands for Travelers Take Action Against Sex Slavery and Trafficking.  These colorful, handmade luggage tags (5 color options) are the perfect way for Mom to support this cause and be a responsible traveler. 

5.      SOS Children’s Villages

          Donations Start at $20

Give Mom the “gift of love” through SOS Children’s Villages, an organization that has been providing family-based care for children without parental care and social services for families at risk. Through their Children’s Villages, Family Strengthening Programs, and other initiatives, SOS impacts the lives of over 1 million people each year.  Purchase a socially conscious donation for as little as $20 for an SOS Mother living in places like India, Haiti, Bangladesh, South Africa, Chile, Mexico, and Gambia.  In exchange for your generous donation, SOS will send a warm, heartfelt card to Mom explaining the gift.  For donations of $150 or more, Mom will receive a scarf by Love Quotes.

Angelina Jolie visited an SOS Village in Haiti in 2009.

Posted in Gift Guides, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment »

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