NYFW Nail Trend: Negative Space

Backstage at the Spring 2015 shows last week, there wasn't a finger unpainted since you know by now, that the nail look has become much more than the icing on the cake for designers. While there were definitely some elaborate looks like this one at Libertine, my go-to manicurist, Jin Soon Choi claims, “This season is all about simple nail art and negative space.”  All in all, the shows proved that minimalist, negative space will be a huge spring nail trend and the best part, it's one you can begin wearing now. Take a look and fall in love.

Prabal Gurung, Jin Soon Choi used the Prabal Gurung for Sally Hansen Collection, which will be available next Spring, to create this stripy look.  She even left some nails untouched!

Creatures of Comfort, Alicia Torello used different shades of Zoya polish and left an unpainted stripe inbetween.

Nonoo, Tracylee Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Let it Snow to create this minimalistic look.

What do you think of the negative space nail trend?  Hit or miss?

Interview: Michael B. Jordan

You guys may know him from Friday Night Lights or The Wire, but I became familiar with Michael B. Jordan, because of his explosive Twitter account.  As AXE's latest muse, I had the chance to chat with the actor about his partnership,  his biggest temptations and of course, what type of scents he likes on women.  Check out what he has to say.

What made you want to partner with AXE?

This particular campaign was interesting to me. According to an AXE survey, 75 percent of guys and 60 percent of girls don’t know what tempts each other. I could relate to this topic and wanted to help be part of the solution in a cool, creative way. Not only does this allow me to help solve answers in the modern world of dating, but AXE is allowing me to step behind the cameras and direct some of the content.

Besides AXE, do you have a favorite fragrance, a cologne?

I like fragrances that are fresh and sophisticated – like the citrus and cedarwood combination in Gold Temptation.

Does your fragrance choice change with the character you're playing? 

I do a lot of preparation to get into my characters. I think there’s a strong correlation between fragrance and how it makes you feel. Pairing a fragrance with a specific character is one way to help get into character.

Is there a particular scent that you like on a woman?

I like floral, sweet scents that are subtle – and keep you coming back for more. Like how AXE Gold Temptation has notes of chocolate with citrus and spice.

You host AXE's #TemptationTuesday on Twitter. What are your biggest temptations?

It’s been fun hearing about what guys and girls find tempting – you’d be surprised.  There’s always something you just can’t resist. Staying healthy is huge for me, but if bacon’s an option, I’m adding it. And if I walk past sneakers, I’m walking out with them.

Kendall Jenner's Chic $4 Tattoos

Model of the moment, Kendall Jenner, or I believe she goes by just Kendall now, was spotted on several runways during NYFW, but unfortunately for me, I didn't have a backstage run in with her.  I guess you can say I just couldn't keep up.  Since Tommy Hilfiger's show was music festival themed, lead makeup artist Pat McGrath was responsible for creating a vintage feel to the tattoo stencil and I have all of the info. Yes, she made $4 tattoo stencil from Walmart look chic enough for a runway show.

Believe it or not, you can buy the exact stencil, Twin Stars, from Tattoo Junkie at Walmart for only $4.  But in order to make it look chic like Kendall's, take a note from famed makeup artist, Pat McGrath.

Instead of just purchasing the stencil, make sure you purchase the ink from Tattoo Junkie as well and use a brush, like McGrath did to paint on the tattoo. Taking to the stencil with a marker of any sort won't give you the same look.  To get the same effect as Kendall, paint on the henna matte ink and go over it with a finishing powder like this one from Tattoo Junkie for extra staying power.

5 things worth checking out this week

With #NYFW coming to a close, have you ever wondered what it's like behind the scenes? [Man Repeller]

Under Armour's new brand ambassador is showing us that supermodels are tougher then we ever could be! [Refinery 29]

Mornings are literally the worst time of day...here are a few tips to get your life together and  FINALLY be a happy morning person [Byrdie]

These 9 male superheros costumes have been enhanced by Hello Kitty and it's the only thing you need to see to make your Friday even more awesome [The Luxury Spot]

Fall is right around the corner, these buys are under $100 and all you need to look effortlessly chic as the seasons turn [The Glitter Guide]

How to Look Sexy in Seconds

I enlisted my best friends to show you how to look sexy in seconds on BetterTV. Now, I'm not makeup artist or hair stylist, but I demoed a hair and makeup trick on each of them. If you look closely, you'll notice I leave my friend Michele with a nice black eye at the end. (#oops )But you get the jist! Watch the segment after the jump.

Celebrating Juicy Viva la Juicy Gold Couture Perfume

Last night, I attended the launch party for Juicy Couture's Viva la Juicy Gold Couture perfume held appropriately at Gold Bar.  Thrown by SheKnows, it was a crowded, yet a very glamorous event with a spritz bar, champagne and photo booth.  The fragrance is one to talk about.

I know many of you love the original Juicy Couture Viva la Juicy fragrance and I don't blame you.  It's fresh and youthful, but this interpretation gives off the same vibe with a twist. It's a dedecant blend of berries, honeysuckle, golden amber, caramel and vanilla. Super sweet.

 You can find Juicy Viva la Juicy Gold Couture for $72 at Sephora.

*This post is sponsored by SheKnows, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

First Look: Pamella Roland's Hair & Makeup Test

Pamella Roland held her Spring 2015 fashion show today, but instead of attending backstage to get the beauty scoop, I had the opportunity to get a sneak peak at the creative process at the hair and makeup test held at her showroom last Wednesday. Picture being at a beauty brainstorm with Ms. Roland herself and two of the industry's best – lead makeup artist, Matin Maulawizada and lead hair stylist, Ted Gibson – only the brainstorm was creatively happening on a model surrounded by Japanese inspired pieces that were about to float down the runway.

After looking at the collection and speaking with Pamella Roland about her vision for the show, Ted and Matin started creating the visual – the look all of the models would wear as they walked down the aisle.

As they began, I asked them what first came to mind when thinking of Pamella Roland's collections...

"Chic.  Sophisticated.  Wearable and attainable," - Ted Gibson

"Practical. Fashion concious. Classic. Not too crazy or too safe. Walks a line.  Chic. Desirable.  Beautiful," - Matin Maulawizada

With those thoughts in mind, Matin focused on the eyes and cheeks by creating a monochromatic look by applying Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour in Cocoa at the lash line and blending it up, then using  Laura Mercier Baked Eye Colour in Hot Chocolate, a brown baked eyeshadow with hints of red in it on top of the lids and in the outer corner. On the cheeks, Laura Mercier Bonne Mine Stick Face Colour in Bronze Glow helped to created the exaggerated color with a dusting of Laura Mercier Crème Cheek Colour in Rosebud on top.  It was blended together so it would stand out in the lights of the runway.  The brows were softly defined, yet underdone and completed with a rosy lip.

Knowing he was going to be working with a corded headband that matched the clothes, Ted began working the hair into an updo and then decided to take it down.  Playing with texture and shape, he ended up adding interest in the 'do by waving the bottom and keeping the top slick and wet looking.  He spritzed L'Oreal Professionnel Fresh Dust Dry Shampoo in the waves and used the Infinity Pro by Conair 3Q blow drier to help distribute to make the texture even softer. "She wants it undone, but still pulled together," he explained about the direction of the look.  In the end, he ended up cutting the headbands and placing the blush color on a barrette to secure the hair back.

Fall Skincare: Pond's Dry Skin Cream

Ready for fall?  I'm more excited about wearing fall clothes than I am about saying goodbye to the summer weather.  Here's where the NY vs. LA debate comes in, again. You're probably just starting to notice that your skin may be a bit dry post summer, and with the change in seasons, it's time to start thinking about switching your skincare regimen to formulas with thicker consistencies.  Unless of course, you live in LA. Everyone else, check this out.

In the summer we all tend to use lighter consistencies when it comes to our moisturizers thanks to the heat and humidity.  Now, keep up with the changes your skin is experiencing or is about to experience and try a heavier cream like POND’S Dry Skin Cream, which moisturizes deeply and even primes your skin for your makeup.

I recommend keeping your skincare regimen simple with a few products that are effective. The POND'S Dry Skin Cream is rich, but absorbs quickly and is good for all skin types – dry to normal and even sensitive skin.  I like to wear it at nighttime.  As the weather gets colder, I become a moisture addict!  You can find it  at drugstores or drugstore.com for under $10.

*This is a sponsored post by POND'S, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

My Emmys Beauty Look

Of course by now you've read all about your favorite celebrity beauty looks from the Emmys red carpet, but I've been getting a lot of questions about my dress (since it had pockets) and beauty look that I have to share it with you.  Getting ready for this big moment was a collaborative effort between the Dove team, my hairstylist and makeup artist and of course, myself.  I knew exactly what direction I wanted my hair and makeup to go in for my Emmys beauty look, which was influenced by my glamourous Monique Lhuillier gown.

I woke up at 7am feeling like a child on Christmas morning (and I'm not a morning person), hopped in the shower and took the one shower challenge with new Dove Body Wash.  I'm sure you saw the video I shot in my previous post on the new formula, which was upgraded and now has a richer lather, but is still a mild cleanser.  I can't get enough.  The promise is 'softer, smoother skin after just one shower,' just what I seek.

At 8am my makeup artist was at my door and then with me on the carpet for the day.  The look: Audrey Hepurn inspired.  Yep, you got it – old Hollywood glamour. "To balance out such a glamorous gown, I made sure to keep the hair and makeup fresh and youthful," she remarked. Think Taylor Swift.  Not that I wanted to look like her, but she's a celeb who can pull off old school Hollywood without looking like the mother of the bride.  "For the makeup, I didn't over line the eyes or lips and kept all of it soft and smudged.  With the hair, it's all about texture and making sure the updo doesn't look too perfect."

So what do you think of my Emmys beauty look?  You can wear it for any formal event.  It was a fantastic experience and I'm so thankful!

Fall in Love with Armani Si

One of the funnest parts of New York Fashion Week is attending parties, dinners and lounges hosted by brands and media outlets to network and celebrate the week. Yesterday I joined Glamour at their Street Glam Pop Up Shop in the Chelsea Market, which is open to the public.  Sponsored by brands like Garnier, Maybelline, Gilt and Philosophy, there were hair and makeup touch ups, opportunities to shop, a hair psychic (yes, for real) and more. My favorite experience though, was at the Armani booth with Armani Si.

To promote their latest fragrance, Armani Si, the brand had a booth set up romantically with rose petals and ribbons to spritz the scent on for sampling.  With notes of vanilla, patchouli and may rose, the fragrance is light, but seductive.  Since fragrance is personal, they had DIY monogrammed love notes readily available for visitors to write out and mail.  Of course, I sent one to Joe with our "L" monogram on it.  I also spritzed it with Si as a finishing touch.

If you're in NYC this weekend, check it out.  I also stopped by Garnier to get my hair styled, shopped the Gilt x Glamour shoe collection and had my hair fortune ready by Glamour's Editor-at-Large, Theodore Leaf, who's fantastic.  By hair fortune, I mean this guy is a stylist (look him up) and was on point with the ladies and gave specific consultations on what they should do with their hair.  I heard a bunch and kept agreeing with him.  Everyone appreciated his advice.

*This post is sponsored by Glamour, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

Insta-Glam: Models to Follow During NYFW

New York Fashion Week is literally the most important time of the year.  I don't care what anyone says, there is nothing more incredible then watching the Internet practically break, because of all of the footage surfacing from the most elite runway shows around the world. We've rounded up the 8 hottest models who's instagram handles you should follow for insider access that will have you feeling like you're in the big tent sitting next to Anna Wintour herself throughout all of NYFW.

Karlie Kloss, Instagram: @karliekloss

A definite fan fav, Karlie is known for her awesome personality and wacky photos. Follow her as she undoubtedly kills it on the runways for some of the biggest designers in the world.

Cocoa Rocha, Instagram: @CocoRocha

Coco's lustworthy Insta is riddled with photos designed to incite the most serious case of Wanderlust by showing the beauty in her surroundings (even if her surroundings are next to a camel or something equally as ridiculous). Her insider photos of NYFW are guaranteed to be visually stunning, like peeking behind the scenes of a Vogue cover shoot.

Cara Delevigne, Instagram: @caradelevigne

A mix between high fashion shots and personal insider photos, Cara will definitely be reporting on NYFW with a high-brow twist...and of course, a side of bacon.

Joan Smalls, Instagram: @joansmalls

Joan Smalls is sure to slay this year at NYFW. Her incredible cheekbones make her Instagram totally gorg, follow her for high fashion shots with a pinch of her offbeat humor sprinkled in.

Miranda Kerr, Instagram @mirandakerr

This VS Angel is looking to break the mold by joining the ranks of the NYFW runways. Keep an eye out for her infectious smile and unmistakable behind-the-scenes selfie guaranteed to have you feeling like you're part of the action.

Jourdan Dunn, Instagram @officialJDunn

Known for being best pals with fellow runway queen Cara Delevigne, these two often cameo on each other's Insta's while party-hopping. Keep an eye out for her taking the runway by storm with the occasional shot of her adorable son mixed in!

Gigi Hadid, Instagram @GigiHadid

The daughter of Real Housewife of Beverly Hills star Yolanda, this up-and-comer is sure to appear a few times at NYFW. Having walked last season, Gigi is sure to stun with her striking features and high-fashion Insta shots.

 Georgia May Jagger, Instagram @GeorgiaMayJagger

No stranger to the catwalk, Georgia walked the London Olympics runway without breaking a sweat. She's sure to make an appearance this season but only her Insta will give us the insider shots we really want...along with the occasional adorable animal cameo of course!

5 things worth checking out this week

Nothing feels better then an organized desk, check out these incredible spaces for all of the back-to-school inspiration you'll ever need [The Glitter Guide] Cara Delevigne is sure to take NYFW by storm, this guide is all you need to cop her street style [Refinery 29]

Nail art is arguably one of the best parts of Fall beauty, get the hottest looks here [Lipstick.com]

The only Internet meme that matters involves Kermit the Frog (WARNING: Don't read this at work, you'll be fired for laughing too loud) [The Luxury Spot]

Put down the hair dryer and pick up your...CitiBike? [Into the Gloss]

MUA Approved: L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara

What's your favorite mascara?  I have my go-to from Urban Decay, Lancome and Dior  but I also test new ones out all of the time. Lately, I've been on a few shoots for different campaigns and found it incredible that three different makeup artists I worked with all used the same mascara, L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara.  That has to mean something, right?  Here's why it's a makeup artist favorite and now, my drugstore go-to as well.

"L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black is a thick and goopy mascara that never flakes and is as black as black will ever come," commented makeup artist, Allison Pynn, who always uses the waterproof formula for shoots.

The product isn't too wet, she explains, "so it stays put on the lashes and doesn't get all over the lids after you apply it."  Describing the formula as a "creamy lipstick for the lashes," it's not shiny or matte, but a really solid mascara.  She uses disposable wands on her clients, but on herself, she uses the applicator that comes with the mascara and likes that it's controllable.

Next time you're searching the drugstore for a new mascara, know that L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara is makeup artist approved.

5 Favorite Beauty Buys

This summer has been all about easy and effortless beauty, and I've been loving products that simplify my routine without sacrifice. From the launch of the first BB/CC cream brush (yes, you read that right) for creating a flawless face to a new Chloe scent to accompany late summer nights, these five favorite beauty buys will transition easily from season to season.

LUSH Charity Pot, $22.95 at Lush

It’s no secret that Lush cares about both the environment and their customers. 100% of the proceeds from the sales of Charity Pot, an incredibly luxurious hand and body lotion goes to support grassroots organizations that matter in the world (like environmental conservation, animal welfare, and human rights). The lotion itself is made with Fair Trade organic cocoa butter that leaves hands feeling incredible. I kid you not, no lotion moisturizes or absorbs into the skin so quickly without leaving behind a greasy residue. Insider tip: Collect and return five Lush products pots at a store for a free goody!

MUA BB or CC Cream Brush, $18 at CVS

Have you ever used a brush for your BB or CC cream? If not, you need to ASAP. This brush soaks up any extra product so you don’t cake on a little too much during the hot summer months. The brush head is domed perfectly so it blends cream flawlessly into the skin for super light coverage without leaving brush hairs behind.

See by Chloe, $78 for 1.7 oz at Nordstrom

This perfume completely embodies the New York woman in a single whiff. Notes of vanilla and musk combined with floral jasmine create an urban-chic scent that captures the strong personality that rules the concrete jungle. The luxe bottle is made of faceted glass, perfect for every Chloe woman.

Pantene Dry Shampoo, $4.99 at Target

Nothing saves a blowout during the heat and humidity of summer quite like dry shampoo. If you’re like me (and can’t blow out your own hair to save your life) then getting that salon perfect look to last for days is a must. This dry shampoo from Pantene works wonders on strands, soaking up oils without leaving your hair feeling crunchy or dirty or like you really should just bite the bullet and wash your hair already. Bonus, it also smells fantastic and doesn’t leave any white residue behind.

L’OReal TXT It Tousle Waves Spray, $4.99 at Ulta

Another day, another great sea-salt spray. This one definitely comes in at one of the lowest price points and is readily available at your local Ulta. Spray on damp hair for a perfectly tousled look without a crunchy residue left behind, and it also works double-time as a great detangler for curly locks.

Interview: Alicia Quarles' Makeup Artist

Alicia Quarles' makeup artist is a force to be reckoned with!  Keesh Winkler-Smith, makeup artist and groomer for E! News, has the confidence, creativity and talent to create looks suitable for the fierce personalities behind the network.  I had the pleasure of watching her create the radiant yet edgy masterpieces on Alicia's lids throughout filming the Dove commercials and working the Emmys red carpet.  Here, she fills me in on her inspirations, craft, and makeup bag must-haves.

I was so impressed by the looks you created for Alicia for the Dove commercials and Emmy red carpet. What inspired you? 

I am inspired by everything in life around me. Magazines, blogs, other artists…. When I see my clients I like to feel out their personality and I also take in account their choice in wardrobe and accessories for the event. I always get a instant idea of what I am going to do for the occasion. For both Dove commercials I kept Alicia very Fresh & Radiant to capture her natural glow & beauty. I used a purple eyeshadow shade as a bottom eyeliner with a angle brush for application to pick up the natural hues in her beautiful purple dress making what I call  "Pop Of Color"  to intensify the complete look.

For Red Carpet Emmy's Alicia's wore a beautiful deep royal blue gown with beautiful Green & Blue accessories for the. I decided to apply a Golden yellow shimmer eyeshadow, a soft brown shade in the crease and a neutral tone on her brow bone. I kept her lips a very soft nectar shade and I used bronzer instead of blush.

Regardless, if I am doing television, Red Carpet affair, Photo Shoots, Bridal or Editorial work I always stick to my "makeup mission" of course depending on my clients needs. I believe in always keeping a clean and simple face with "A Splash of Color".

Do you and Alicia collaborate on her looks or do you just work your magic?

I actually just work from my natural instincts that I was lucky enough to be Blessed with. It's also great because Alicia trusts my vision and gives me full control to be creative. This helps a lot because I am able to just do my thing without over thinking.

You seem to always play up her eyes, how come?

I believe the eyes are the window to your soul... Eyes have always been my favorite and most exciting part of application to the face! I get to be creative using color while applying my own signature style and concept depending on the look.

Your use of color is abundant, yet strategic.  Can you give us a tip on how to incorporate color into a look without over doing it? 

I like to use a technique I call "POP OF COLOR" using either a color liner on bottom or using a bright shade on the lid with a very natural crease and highlighter. Knowledge of the color wheel and what colors are complimentary is essential when I decide to apply color.  My mantra is "COLOR IS YOUR FRIEND", with that in mind and paired with a few pairs of lashes yes, I said a few pairs!  Have fun with it because it all washes down the drain at the end of the day.

What are some of the staples in your kit and why?

I absolutely love these products and I have also listed reasons why I keep them in my kit:

• Ardell eyelashes : they add fullness with a slight glam look. I love to cut them up and create my own personal touch.
• Mac Mineralize Skin Finish Natural Powder : provides a very flawless finish without looking too heavy on skin.
• Makeup Forever Eyeshadows : They have a great pay off - the pigmentation is rich and very easy to blend. Also they come in FUN COLORS!
• Murad skin care: because makeup looks even better with healthy skin underneath. I encourage all my clients to stick to a regiment. (Clarifying Cleanser, Renewing Eye Cream, Oil Control Mattifier w/SPF 15 | PA++)

Murad also has a wonderful skin specific treatments and anti-aging products. Pretty much I am in love with the entire line as their products are so good. You can use alone or under makeup.

5 things worth checking out this week

Christian Siriano is a game-changer in the fashion world, and he just spilled all of his secrets [Total Beauty] These cats have sage wisdom that everyone should listen to [Refinery 29]

Taylor Schilling positively glowed at the Emmy red carpet, get her look here [Rouge 18]

Labor Day is right around the corner, here are 10 awesome uses for our favorite drink... beer! [Marie Claire]

With summer nearly over, now's the time to try those last few beauty trends of the season [Lipstick.com]

Everything You Need to Know About Hair Extensions

As you saw at the Emmys (did you even recognize Breaking Bad's Anna Gunn let's just say she went a little over board), hair extensions can do wonders.  For me, they add fullness to my hair, which is essential for on camera work.  When I wrote about Kelly Ripa's extensions, you all went nuts, because those were done right! Well, now, NYC's master extension artist (my girl), JanMarie Arteca, gave me the scoop on everything you need to know about bonded hair extensions.  You know, in case you're interested in making a commitment.

The Bond...

Great Lengths uses a Keratin bond that is molded to the hair strand. Keratin is a protein that your hair naturally has so that is doesn't cause damage or irritation when applied. The machines used to apply the extensions can be adjusted so there is no heat damage done to the hair either. There should be just enough heat applied to make the keratin bond pliable to the hair.

The Damage or Lack There Of...

When attached properly there will be no damage to your hair. I find that any damaged caused by extensions usually happens in the application stage (not being done properly) or in the maintenance and removal stage.

Bonded extensions can be damaging if they are not maintained properly. The recommended time on these extensions is usually 3-4months. Some clients will keep them in longer than that. The risk in doing so is matting of the hair (think dreadlocks), which can cause problems in the removal of the extension sometime involving hair loss or breakage. Brushing the extensions with a boar and nylon bristle brush will help prevent that. Sleeping with your hair in a loose bun or braid will also help prevent matting.

The Extension Artist...

If you are interested in extensions do some research. Find a salon that is certified in the extensions that you want to have. Go for a consultation, feel the hair, see the machine and get to know your extension artist. Most stylist also have a portfolio of their work, ask to see it! Make sure you like what you see. Lastly, ask for referrals. It's the best way to find someone to do your hair.

The Protection Factor...

Some clients have fine, brittle hair (think hair that just snaps at the touch) or work in fields where their hair is constantly being worked on with heat tools (models/actresses/fashion) applying extensions can help protect your hair from over exposure to heat tools that can cause damage to the hair. When applied they can actually protect your natural hair from being over processed since all the styling work is being done on extension hair leading to less damaged hair.

The Use...

Think outside of the box with extensions. They don't have to be used for just achieving Kim Kardashianesqe volumes of hair. A few bonds can help to enhance a bob or can be used to fill-in a fine hairline. Pastel color is also a major hair trend right now, if you aren't sure you want to commit to the color change ask your stylist about applying a few lilac strands to your look. Having fun with color without the risk of damaging or staining your hair with certain products. Men are also getting into extensions (Steven Tyler) adding a few strand to thinning hair can make all the difference guys!

Jan-Marie Arteca works at the Jeff Chastain Parlor in NYC.  Email her at [email protected] to schedule an extension consultation.

Emmys Day Excitement

Grateful.  Grateful.  Grateful!  I felt like I was living a dream yesterday on the E! red carpet with Dove at the Emmys!  Did you watch?  Here are some pics.  I seriously couldn't stop smiling.  Alicia Quarles and I gave two women a huge surprise and it felt awesome to be able to do that for someone.  In case you missed it, check out the video!

Barre3: Three Steps to A Leaner Bod

I woke up 24 hours after taking my first barre class, and my legs were sorer then they’ve ever been... and I played college soccer. Why try barre you may ask?  I had the privilege of trying out a Barre3 class before it opened to the public for BeautySweetSpot (no, Jeannine didn't make me) at their new Manhattan flagship studio in the West Village, taught by the Founder, Sadie Lincoln.  Wouldn't you?  

As I walked in to the pristine second floor village studio, I was pretty intimidated, but my anxious feelings were quickly put at ease thanks to the incredibly friendly (and fit!) staff.  Unlike other barre classes I've heard about, Barre3 consists of a three-step formula. Step one is based on position holds that work your muscles and adjust your alignment. Step two involves controlled, one-inch movements which helps increase core strength and warm up the body and step three is a cardio blast with large dynamic movements. You repeat this method throughout the hour-long workout.

We started in the middle of the floor with some simple standing positions, than moved to the bar for standing planks and squats, and eventually moved onto the floor for extra core and glute workouts.  And a great workout it was.  Each circuit easily allowed for multiple different modifications based on your body’s ability. You know how there are those times in a workout class you don’t modify to prove that you’re in just as great of shape as everyone else? It wasn’t like that here. You felt comfortable enough to achieve the best workout according to what you're able to do.  And Sadie continuously stressed that, making you more relaxed and focused on what you should be strengthening.

For instance, I have a bad ankle, so for some of the toe rises, I stayed flat-footed and focused on how to strengthen my thighs in my modified position. And I can promise you my thighs did not miss out. Another thing I loved about it was that during certain circuits, it didn’t even feel like you were working out. It seemed like you were just holding a pose, maybe even stretching. However, my body today says otherwise.

Barre3 is a great way to get in shape with an encouraging atmosphere that seemingly delivers results quickly. Your body may hate you the week after, but you will love your body in just a few more.

Barre3 opened just this week and is located at 63 W. 8th St. NYC.  Don't live in NYC?  No worries.  They have online workouts that are just as good if you're determined.

Celebrating 5 Years Freelance: Tips from My Mentors

I'm writing this post with gratitude as I look out the window onto the Emmys red carpet from a suite at the Ritz Carlton in LA and reflect on the past five years.  It's been five years to the week that I decided to quit my job and go full time freelance.  Not knowing exactly where that would take me, I created a vision board filled with dreams and ambitious goals.  That year, I did my first national TV segment live from the Emmys red carpet for E!. Today, I came full circle and am back on the Emmys red carpet with E!, but this time as a spokesperson for Dove coined E!'s beauty insider. What happened in between I credit to drive, networking, mentors, strategic partnerships, tunnel vision and gratitude.  

People ask, Did you always love beauty?  The answer... of course, but I never imagined writing beauty.  My goal was to write for a magazine, much like Kate Hudson in "How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days." When a beauty editorial internship opened up at Cosmopolitan, I went for it and the rest was history.  After working at Cosmo as their beauty assistant, I learned the ins and outs of beauty editorial, and beauty PR was calling my name, which is where I began writing BeautySweetSpot.com.  It was only a hobby.  For deets on the rest, check out this article on Forbes.

Since being on my own for five years, my goals have shifted from writing to TV hosting and spokesperson work, but of course, I still have a passion for writing.  I had no idea my freelance career could and would take me this way, but as a journalist, it's an incredible feeling to be able to story tell and report on camera, too.

I've found that one of the most important elements to building a successful career is to have mentors.  Here are some of my most important mentors in the past five years and some of their advice.

I've been lucky enough to have mentors all of my life.  Career wise though, I met my first mentor at Cosmopolitan.  Today, she's the Beauty and Style Director of People, but then, Andrea Lavinthal, was my everything.  She not only believed in me enough to give me a chance, but also took the time to show me the ropes. I still look up to her.  Tip: Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.

I met another mentor, Karen Robinovitz, when I first stared my blog while working in PR.  Currently the CEO of my management company, she pushed me off the edge, encouraging me to quit my job and now, hand in hand with my manager (another mentor), Reesa Lake, guide me to make sure my brand is continuously growing.  Tip: If you're not completely impressed by it, don't post it.

My father has always been a mentor in my life, but I owe him all of the credit for making me a business woman.  Tip: When it comes to business, at the end of the day, most people don't care about you – so make sure you do.  This, we tend to learn the hard way.

Gabby Bernstein is the most recent person to come into my life who I consider a mentor.  A world renowned life coach, I met her over breakfast and the rest was history.  Tip: In order to live life in a state of joy, you must forgive and be grateful. I couldn't agree more and living this way has as she would say, 'made miracles happen.'

You'll learn that mentors come in and out of your life for different reasons.  They teach you, encourage you, enable you, believe in you and have your back. Without my mentors, I'm not sure what these past five years would have looked like.  Don't be afraid to reach out to someone you look up to for advice.  They could end up being your next mentor.  And pay it forward.

So, five years from now?  Well, it's time to make another vision board.