Royal Book Challenge: Princess by Robert Lacey

To contact us Click HERE
27/500
Princess by Robert Lacey
Published 1982
128 Pages
ISBN: 978-0812963298

 Princess by Robert Lacey covers the period from Diana's engagement to the early months of her pregnancy with Prince William. Much like other books, it contains typical photographs of Diana at her loveliest, showing her burgeoning sense of style. The photographs offer few hints of the glamorous princess she would become. Nor do they offer any clues to the marital and personal troubles behind the smiles.

Many comparisons have been made between Catherine and Diana in terms of how they have adapted to royal life. The text offers some striking similarities between the two women. Notably Mr Lacey questions the adulation heaped upon Diana for doing nothing more than marrying into the royal family. By that point she had said and done very little of substance to warrant it. One passage about Diana is just applicable to Kate 30 years later.

'Our admiration, of course, derives from other things: her freshness, her royal status, the yet more royal status awaiting her in the future, her youth, her beauty - and her dress sense. She looks like a princess, groomed, elegant and clad in garments which are familiar to any woman but which, somehow have been dusted with an extra glamour..'

Mr Lacey offers a nice portrait of a princess on the verge of something greater. Given all of the troubles that would occur later, it's nice to read about a more innocent, younger Diana, with a glittering future in front of her.

© Marilyn Braun 2012

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.Copyright Marilyn Braun 2005-2011. May not be used without permission.

Royal Book Challenge: Happy and Glorious! by Marion Crawford

To contact us Click HERE
28/500
Happy and glorious! by Marion Crawford
Published 1953
93 Pages
ASIN: B001GF6UM0

Nowadays, it is very rare for me to walk into a used bookstore and find a book about the royal family that I do not already own. So when I came upon Happy and Glorious! I was delighted. Having enjoyed Marion Crawford's previous publication The Little Princesses, I was thoroughly looking forward to reading this as well.

Marion Crawford was the Queen and Princess Margaret's governess for seventeen years. When she wrote The Little Princesses, the royal family saw this, understandably, as a betrayal. Having become a pariah, Crawford had nothing to lose by milking her royal connection. Not that she offers any dirty secrets. The appeal of Happy and Glorious! is that it is written by someone who holds affection for the Queen, offering a true insight into the character in a respectful, informative and insightful way.

© Marilyn Braun 2012

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.Copyright Marilyn Braun 2005-2011. May not be used without permission.

Royal Review: The Regal Rules for Girls by Jerramy Fine

To contact us Click HERE
The Regal Rules for Girls by Jerramy Fine
320 Pages
Published August 2012
ISBN: 978-0425247648

While reading The Regal Rules for Girls, I found myself incredibly impressed with the wealth of information within its pages. I couldn't help but wonder - what isn't The Regal Rules for Girls? Is it a self-help book? Etiquette guide? Career counselling? Educational brochure? Travel guide? Dating advice from a wise friend? Party planning guide?

In a brief, it is a manual for any American girl who has ever dreamed of moving to the United Kingdom in search of her prince.

Basing Regal Rules for Girls on her own experience,which she wrote about in her wonderfully entertaining memoir Someday My Prince Will Come, Jerramy offers a guide for other plucky American women to pursue their own prince charming. However, unlike other self-help books filled with inspirational platitudes, this one offers a pragmatic and calculated approach towards achieving happily ever after. Call it a reality check for would be Cinderellas. If you want the glass slipper, you're going to have to work for it.

Forget dreaming about your prince, you'll have to single-mindedly hunt him down in his natural environment.  Jerramy offers tips on how to spot your prey based on physical characteristics and educational background, and recommends the best 'Regal Hunting Grounds' (Polo matches, sailing, skiing in the Alps) with accompanying websites. Should the need arise, essential survival skills are provided: the full lyrics to God Save the Queen, classic martini recipe, diagram for how to properly tie a bow tie, sailing lingo to impress your nautical suitor, and a pronunciation guide so you don't unwittingly become a social pariah when you just want to relax on the couch sofa.

All sorts of unromantic territory is covered: government visas, finding an apartment flat-share, gaining employment, finding proper dental care, and the best place to purchase American food staples. Buying the plane ticket is the easy part. If navigating the unspoken minefield of British social intricacies doesn't dissuade you, nothing else will.

Following these rules to the letter you will have no excuse for not being successful in your pursuit. The Regal Rules for Girls offers all of the tips you'll need to get there. Happily ever after is now up to you.

© Marilyn Braun 2012

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.Copyright Marilyn Braun 2005-2011. May not be used without permission.

Thank God for naked princes in Las Vegas!

To contact us Click HERE
Finally, something to discuss other than the Duchess of Cambridge's clothes and the Duke of Edinburgh's death watch! This is quite possibly the biggest story to hit royal watchers since Catherine reignited the debate on pantyhose vs no pantyhose.

A naked prince allows us to focus on what really matters in the world of royalty. Upon seeing photographs of said naked prince (see explanation below), you've probably had one of six possible reactions.

1) You've sighed dramatically and fallen into a dead-faint. Currently waiting for someone to revive you with smelling salts.

2) You've indulged in sanctimonious preaching and proclaimed yourself an armchair arbiter of royal behavior.

3) Dying of curiosity, you've openly wished Harry had removed his hand.

4) Dying of curiosity, you've secretly wished Harry had removed his hand.

5) You've spent the last few days composing a blog post before the story inevitably dies out.

6) You don`t care or understand what all of the fuss is about.

Whichever reaction you`ve experienced, I applaud you for reading this jump on the bandwagon blog post.

Yes, Prince Harry was photographed. In  Las Vegas, naked, playing strip billiards, in the privacy of his hotel suite. Now that these photographs have come to light, Harry is supposedly 'no longer a role model', he has behaved in a 'disgraceful manner', he has 'brought disrepute on the British royal family' and 'someone needs to drum some sense into him before it's too late'. What a shame, if only Harry had known he had to set an example in the privacy of his hotel room. The family firm isn't supposed to take a day off, is it?

The fact that Prince Harry parties is nothing new. Young, virile and single, we expect it of him. Why are people suddenly appalled and offended now that there's photographic proof of it?  Should Harry have known better than to invite strangers into his private suite? Let that be a lesson to you Harry. In the future, choose your naked friends more carefully.

Unfortunately for Harry, he is a senior royal by accident of birth rather than choice. Along with his brother and sister-in-law, he is expected to shore up the Firm and carry the royal flag forward. It's a losing battle. Unlike in previous generations when royalty set the tone for society, deference is dead and gone. The Queen, her husband and first cousins are a dying breed and times have changed. Holding Harry to the same standards of royal behavior is unrealistic. For Harry, and for people who continue to expect it from any member of the new royal generation.

For now Harry would be wise to keep his head down and his pants on. Oh, and while at it, learn how to play billiards for next time.

The public is watching and waiting.

 © Marilyn Braun 2012

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.Copyright Marilyn Braun 2005-2011. May not be used without permission.

Catherine Cambridge shouldn't be shocked, she should be resigned

To contact us Click HERE
Oh dear!

Topless photos of Kate Middleton/Catherine Cambridge have been published!

Shock, horror and the royal couple are 'saddened and disappointed'.

Seriously, I'm starting to get tired of the complaining.

I didn't always think this way. I used to get just as incensed as the next person about the prying eyes of the paparazzi. Now I'm no longer surprised. And in all honesty, Kate shouldn't be surprised either.

Much like putting up with  being called Kate Middleton for the rest of her life, photos taken in private moments seem to be inevitable. Honeymoon, holidays, walking on the beach, it's all fodder for what she does and what she wears. She signed up for a life of being in the public eye. She just saw what happened to Prince Harry and his photos. Regardless of whether it invaded his privacy, the nude photos became a story for a few days until Harry magically became a hero by stepping on a plane to Afghanistan. Catherine take note.

Catherine is holding her head high and putting on her brave face. What choice does she have? Shying away doesn't change anything.  She may even get an award for it. Since her marriage, people are  interested in every single aspect of her life. From her pantyhose, to her hair, to the groceries she buys, to drinking water instead of wine, to her shoes, to a scar on her head. No detail is too minute to feed an insatiable appetite. Would media outlets really publish these photos if there wasn't some sort of demand for them?

It's very clear that the media has learnt absolutely nothing from what happened to Diana. Nothing has changed and with cameras at every turn, it's only going to get worse. Catherine would be naive to think otherwise.

© Marilyn Braun 2012

 Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.Copyright Marilyn Braun 2005-2011. May not be used without permission.

Montblanc Melodies Precieuses collection

To contact us Click HERE
Montblanc Melodies Precieuses collection of five series fine jewelry,made of precious platinum and diamonds.

Première Rencontre series
Première Rencontre diamonds are dazzling,each star of necklace is strung by 301 diamonds (10.54 carats),rings and earrings are almost exactly the same, unique design, highlight the timeless beauty of the top diamond, Montblanc exquisite gems process do in them.




Coeur à coeur seriesJules Massenet opera tells process of life and the power of love,Coeur à coeur series expresses love to make life more abundantly;platinum necklace of round diamond with heart-shaped diamonds interphase arrangement,central inlaid a perfect sparkling diamond,very elegant,a symbol of love fire;earrings with heart-shaped diamonds and star diamonds inlay,eulogize love and life.




Nuits d’été seriesNuits d'été series,with music masters Berlioz's the romantic movement for inspiration,deduce hot summer of sunset shasow:18K white gold bracelet,ring and earrings inlaid flashing diamonds and glistening black spinels,a strong contrast shows day and night obvious relative meaning;Montblanc star diamond in the intersection of the day and night,pure artistic touch, highlighting the extraordinary worth.




Hymne à l’amour series Montblanc Hymne à l'amour series, paid tribute to the immortal love songs of the French singer Edith Piaf: 18k platinum bracelet and ring central inlaid a row of black spinelon both sides of the flashing diamonds, black-and-white duet, a symbol of the climax lap oscillation warm feeling. Circular pendant of necklace is not only continuation of a two-color contrast, but also a symbol of the cycle lasting love.




A Petits Pas seriesPuccini's "Madame Butterfly" resound generations,is the legendary of classical opera. Montblanc captures inspiration from it,creating A Petits Pas series,a symbol of the charm of the young geisha.


Mont Blanc Pen
Mont Blanc jewelry Tweet

Chopard cooperates with film Diana

To contact us Click HERE
At the Cannes Film Festival,Chopard works has always been the darling of the red carpet guests.Recently, Chopard has opened a new partnership with the film industry, as exclusive jewelry and watch partner of the upcoming movie "Diana".This film is starred by Naomi Watts.



In the movie,Chopard will reproduce Princess Diana alive wearing diamond jewelry, including a 20-carat sapphire and 28 diamonds platinum earrings and Diana's engagement ring (now by Princess Kate wear).


Louis Vuitton Jewelry
Chopard jewelry
D&G jewelry
Gucci jewelry
Juicy jewelry
Mont Blanc jewelry Tweet

Mont Blanc Heritage Collection 1912 Limited Edition

To contact us Click HERE

Mont Blanc Heritage Collection 1912 Limited Edition of writing instruments,a new perspective promotes the modern writing culture,pays tribute to the brand one hundred technology tradition, top quality, as well as the reform writing instruments design and technical brilliant achievements of tribute.Mont Blanc Heritage Collection 1912 Limited Edition and the innovative spirit of the early 20th century as inspiration,open a new chapter of writing world.




Mont Blanc jewelry
Mont Blanc PenTweet

It's all about the Gold

To contact us Click HERE
Lancome teamed up with Vancouver native, photographer and artist extraordinare Raphael Mazzuco along with his makeup artist wife Lisa Marie,  to create an amazing limited edition makeup box collection called Gold Fascination representing Canada's female athletes focused on winning Gold Medals at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics Games.  
Friday February 5th there will be a Red Carpet Fashionista Event at Studio 538 that you don't want to miss!

Check out the video of how the artwork came about:

How to get the Look: Kate Middleton's Wedding Makeup

To contact us Click HERE

People ask me all the time if I'd ever do my own makeup for my wedding day. I've always said no, that I'd rather not have to deal with the stress of doing it myself. Then I heard Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cornwall did her own makeup. Now, the day I get married, I might have a large wedding but its extremely doubtful I would get married in the presence of not only 1,900 people but also the majority of the world watching me exchange vows with a Prince. So, if Kate can do it, I'm pretty sure that I can.Here's a guide to getting Kate's makeup look that she so deftly did on her own. Rumor has it she used Bobbi Brown cosmetics but I've added some of my favorite products to use and tricks to achieve the look!

Step 1: Prep your skin. I can't emphasize the importance of a good skin regimen leading up to your special day. While makeup can do wonders, no one wants to shellack product on their face to create a lit-from-within glow. If you don't already have a skin care regimen, start now! You don't have to go out and buy a plethora of products. Start with your basics : Cleanser, Toner, Moisturizer (CTM). Once you get into a solid pattern CTMing of 2x day, everyday, you'll want to incorporate an Exfoliant. Exfoliants are my favvvvvvvvvorite skin care products. They make dull skin look lively, a rough skin feel soft and most importantly they allow your skin to reproduce new skin cells so the old dead ones don't stay around! The best advice I can give you about buying CTM products and an exfoliant is pay attention to what you're buying. If you aren't familiar, ask (ahem! *wink wink*). If you've used them all before but are wanting to upgrade, drop by a few counters, get as much information as possible, get a demonstration of the product and a sample if you can. Its important to educate yourself about the products you buy rather than "i'll just buy it because she/he/they/vogue said its good". Beauty professionals are there to help you but some unfortunately work on a commission basis but if you're a smart cookie (and you are) you can tell the difference between a good beauty professional and a sales-driven one. Continue with your skin care regimen leading up to your wedding day, however, I would suggest if it is within your means, to treat yourself to a facial (or two) the month of your wedding. Getting a facial not only gives your skin a good cleaning but its also an hour to relax and let someone else take care of you. There are so many different facials, so get one that appeals to you but my recommendation would be that if you only get 1, get an oxygen facial. Oxygen facials follow in the similar steps of a regular facial, however an oxygen facial provides a boost of active ingredients to the skin and not only helps with the release of impurities but also gives and overall smoother, brighter looking skin. Many spa's now provide Oxygen facials, I had one at Absolute Spa once and it.was.divine! Rumor has it, Kate Middleton got one too ;-)
Step 2- Groom your brows You can either leave this to a professional if you get it done regularly or groom them yourself but if you've never groomed your brows, please don't get tweezer happy and start plucking away. Ask a friend where they get theirs done and ask for a consult if possible. Strong, clean eyebrows are key in looking fabulous in your wedding photos.
Step 3-Wedding Day Makeup Try if you can to get some sleep the night before. If not, CTM your face as you normally do but after rinsing before applying moisturizer, splash your face with cold water. Not only will it wake you up but it will also perk up your skin.You'll need the following products, I've recommended my favorites to get the look: Primer (Benefit That Gal) Foundation (Lancome Teinte Idole Fresh Wear) Concealer (Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage) Powder ( Makeup Forever HD Microfinish Powder) Eyeshadow (Dior 5-Color Eye Shadow Palette in Rosy Tan) Eyeliner (Bobbi Brown Creamy Eye Pencil is Caviar) Mascara (Lancome Hypnose Mascara Waterproof in Black) Eyebrow color (Bobbi Brown Brow Pencil in Mahogany) Blush (Nars Blush in Amour) Lipliner (Lancome Le Lipstique in Sheer Raspberry) Lipstick/Lipgloss (Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Tulle/ Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss in Buff)
FACE: Start with a well moisturized face. Apply primer all over with either a brush or your fingers but concentrate the most on the t-zone. Wait a few seconds for it to dry and set before applying foundation. **foundation must match your skin perfectly** I always recommend applying foundation with a brush because you get the most coverage with the least amount of product. Don't use too much foundation, you don't need it but make sure you apply the product evenly and blend really well. Apply concealer under the eyes, in between the eyebrows, around the nose, on your chin and over any blemishes or discoloration you might have. **remember under eye concealer is always one shade lighter than your skin whereas to cover blemishes, etc, it matches your skin** Set with powder using a big powder brush or a velour puff, concentrating on the under eyes, nose, forehead and chin.
EYES: Apply a bit of concealer to the eyelid as a primer and powder to set. Start with the lightest shade (in your palette of brown and peachy colors) and apply all over your eye from lash line to brow bone. Use the second lightest shade and contour your eye in the crease. **blend well** Take the second darkest color (not the darkest) and apply on your lid using a light application. Using your eye pencil, draw a line as close to your lash line as possible from the outside in towards the tear duct. Take an angle brush and the darkest shadow shade, go over the line softly to both smudge it lightly and set the shadow. Do this last step on the bottom lash line as well. Curl your lashes and swipe two coats of waterproof mascara.
BROWS: Sharpen your eye brow pencil and lightly brush strokes as if mimicking individual brow hairs on your eye brow. Fill in the brow and using a clean angle brush, smooth over the lines and perfect your brow shape making sure the color is evenly applied and no smudges outside the brow shape.
CHEEKS: Smile to find the apples of your cheeks and using a light hand, apply the pink shade from the apples of your cheek up towards the ear/hairline blending well. **a little blush goes a long way so don't over apply but apply just enough that you can see it and it complements the rest of your look**
LIPS: Make sure your lips are free of cracking and smooth **the night before, use your exfoliant on an old toothbrush and "brush" your lips for a smooth, soft lip the next morning** Fill your lip in with lipliner and brush to even it out. Using a stiff lip brush, apply lipstick all over to fill in the lips. Finish off with a bit of gloss (not too much!)
VOILA!! Now you look like a Princess!

Cartier antique jewelry

To contact us Click HERE
In general, the definition of antique items must be more than a hundred years; antique jewelry, mostly jewelry boutique is the century between 1850 to 1950. Sometimes, the works of the 1960s had a new spirit of the times, but also inherited a past style, so it was classed as antique jewelry. In different periods of antique jewelry design, also recorded the changes in society and the development of production technology, in particular, Art Deco period jewelry was the record of an era.


Cartier Turkey diamond necklace in 1955
Cartier Diamond Platinum necklace in 1932
Cartier Kirin bracelet in 1928
Cartier Sapphire watch in 1940
Cartier Dragonfly brooch in 1953
Cartier crown in 1936

Cartier Bangle
Cartier bracelet
Cartier Earring
Cartier Necklace
cartier pendant
Cartier RingTweet

Bottega Veneta jewelry

To contact us Click HERE
Bottega Veneta always with unique delicate intrecciato leather weaving techniques,perfectly present elegant taste of leather.Extend woven leather craft,Bottega Veneta makes this classic craft into jewelry creation,with contracted geometrical concepts,combined with diamonds,metals to create a series of deep core spirit of brand jewelry works,such as the sphere shape Sfera series,and as if with weave lines Laguna ring.






Van Cleef &Arpels bracelet
Van Cleef &Arpels earring
Van Cleef &Arpels necklace
Van Cleef &Arpels ring 
Bvlgari Bangle
Bvlgari Bracelet
Bvlgari Earring
Bvlgari Necklace
Bvlgari Ring
Chanel bracelet
Chanel earring
Chanel necklace
Chanel rings
Chanel watch
Cartier Bangle
Cartier bracelet
Cartier Earring
Cartier Necklace
cartier pendant
Cartier Ring
Tiffany bangles
Tiffany bracelets
Tiffany earrings
Tiffany necklaces
Tiffany pendants
Tiffany rings

Tweet

Jessica McCormack jewelry

To contact us Click HERE
Jessica McCormack is a designer from New Zealand,in childhood her entertainment time spent in the auction house where his father operated,for art had innate advantages.After graduation, she founded the jewelry brand, every piece of jewelry was handmade, and her works have unconstrained style,like a variety of fantasy jewelry in "Harry Potter",however,the latest 2012 series Jessica with endless girl style returns,bows, tassels these feminine details in the latest jewelry is casual visible.









Louis Vuitton Jewelry
Chopard jewelry
D&G jewelry
Gucci jewelry
Juicy jewelry
Mont Blanc jewelry
Mont Blanc PenTweet

It's all about the Gold

To contact us Click HERE
Lancome teamed up with Vancouver native, photographer and artist extraordinare Raphael Mazzuco along with his makeup artist wife Lisa Marie,  to create an amazing limited edition makeup box collection called Gold Fascination representing Canada's female athletes focused on winning Gold Medals at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics Games.  
Friday February 5th there will be a Red Carpet Fashionista Event at Studio 538 that you don't want to miss!

Check out the video of how the artwork came about:

How to get the Look: Kate Middleton's Wedding Makeup

To contact us Click HERE

People ask me all the time if I'd ever do my own makeup for my wedding day. I've always said no, that I'd rather not have to deal with the stress of doing it myself. Then I heard Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cornwall did her own makeup. Now, the day I get married, I might have a large wedding but its extremely doubtful I would get married in the presence of not only 1,900 people but also the majority of the world watching me exchange vows with a Prince. So, if Kate can do it, I'm pretty sure that I can.Here's a guide to getting Kate's makeup look that she so deftly did on her own. Rumor has it she used Bobbi Brown cosmetics but I've added some of my favorite products to use and tricks to achieve the look!

Step 1: Prep your skin. I can't emphasize the importance of a good skin regimen leading up to your special day. While makeup can do wonders, no one wants to shellack product on their face to create a lit-from-within glow. If you don't already have a skin care regimen, start now! You don't have to go out and buy a plethora of products. Start with your basics : Cleanser, Toner, Moisturizer (CTM). Once you get into a solid pattern CTMing of 2x day, everyday, you'll want to incorporate an Exfoliant. Exfoliants are my favvvvvvvvvorite skin care products. They make dull skin look lively, a rough skin feel soft and most importantly they allow your skin to reproduce new skin cells so the old dead ones don't stay around! The best advice I can give you about buying CTM products and an exfoliant is pay attention to what you're buying. If you aren't familiar, ask (ahem! *wink wink*). If you've used them all before but are wanting to upgrade, drop by a few counters, get as much information as possible, get a demonstration of the product and a sample if you can. Its important to educate yourself about the products you buy rather than "i'll just buy it because she/he/they/vogue said its good". Beauty professionals are there to help you but some unfortunately work on a commission basis but if you're a smart cookie (and you are) you can tell the difference between a good beauty professional and a sales-driven one. Continue with your skin care regimen leading up to your wedding day, however, I would suggest if it is within your means, to treat yourself to a facial (or two) the month of your wedding. Getting a facial not only gives your skin a good cleaning but its also an hour to relax and let someone else take care of you. There are so many different facials, so get one that appeals to you but my recommendation would be that if you only get 1, get an oxygen facial. Oxygen facials follow in the similar steps of a regular facial, however an oxygen facial provides a boost of active ingredients to the skin and not only helps with the release of impurities but also gives and overall smoother, brighter looking skin. Many spa's now provide Oxygen facials, I had one at Absolute Spa once and it.was.divine! Rumor has it, Kate Middleton got one too ;-)
Step 2- Groom your brows You can either leave this to a professional if you get it done regularly or groom them yourself but if you've never groomed your brows, please don't get tweezer happy and start plucking away. Ask a friend where they get theirs done and ask for a consult if possible. Strong, clean eyebrows are key in looking fabulous in your wedding photos.
Step 3-Wedding Day Makeup Try if you can to get some sleep the night before. If not, CTM your face as you normally do but after rinsing before applying moisturizer, splash your face with cold water. Not only will it wake you up but it will also perk up your skin.You'll need the following products, I've recommended my favorites to get the look: Primer (Benefit That Gal) Foundation (Lancome Teinte Idole Fresh Wear) Concealer (Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage) Powder ( Makeup Forever HD Microfinish Powder) Eyeshadow (Dior 5-Color Eye Shadow Palette in Rosy Tan) Eyeliner (Bobbi Brown Creamy Eye Pencil is Caviar) Mascara (Lancome Hypnose Mascara Waterproof in Black) Eyebrow color (Bobbi Brown Brow Pencil in Mahogany) Blush (Nars Blush in Amour) Lipliner (Lancome Le Lipstique in Sheer Raspberry) Lipstick/Lipgloss (Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Tulle/ Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss in Buff)
FACE: Start with a well moisturized face. Apply primer all over with either a brush or your fingers but concentrate the most on the t-zone. Wait a few seconds for it to dry and set before applying foundation. **foundation must match your skin perfectly** I always recommend applying foundation with a brush because you get the most coverage with the least amount of product. Don't use too much foundation, you don't need it but make sure you apply the product evenly and blend really well. Apply concealer under the eyes, in between the eyebrows, around the nose, on your chin and over any blemishes or discoloration you might have. **remember under eye concealer is always one shade lighter than your skin whereas to cover blemishes, etc, it matches your skin** Set with powder using a big powder brush or a velour puff, concentrating on the under eyes, nose, forehead and chin.
EYES: Apply a bit of concealer to the eyelid as a primer and powder to set. Start with the lightest shade (in your palette of brown and peachy colors) and apply all over your eye from lash line to brow bone. Use the second lightest shade and contour your eye in the crease. **blend well** Take the second darkest color (not the darkest) and apply on your lid using a light application. Using your eye pencil, draw a line as close to your lash line as possible from the outside in towards the tear duct. Take an angle brush and the darkest shadow shade, go over the line softly to both smudge it lightly and set the shadow. Do this last step on the bottom lash line as well. Curl your lashes and swipe two coats of waterproof mascara.
BROWS: Sharpen your eye brow pencil and lightly brush strokes as if mimicking individual brow hairs on your eye brow. Fill in the brow and using a clean angle brush, smooth over the lines and perfect your brow shape making sure the color is evenly applied and no smudges outside the brow shape.
CHEEKS: Smile to find the apples of your cheeks and using a light hand, apply the pink shade from the apples of your cheek up towards the ear/hairline blending well. **a little blush goes a long way so don't over apply but apply just enough that you can see it and it complements the rest of your look**
LIPS: Make sure your lips are free of cracking and smooth **the night before, use your exfoliant on an old toothbrush and "brush" your lips for a smooth, soft lip the next morning** Fill your lip in with lipliner and brush to even it out. Using a stiff lip brush, apply lipstick all over to fill in the lips. Finish off with a bit of gloss (not too much!)
VOILA!! Now you look like a Princess!

Catherine Cambridge shouldn't be shocked, she should be resigned

To contact us Click HERE
Oh dear!

Topless photos of Kate Middleton/Catherine Cambridge have been published!

Shock, horror and the royal couple are 'saddened and disappointed'.

Seriously, I'm starting to get tired of the complaining.

I didn't always think this way. I used to get just as incensed as the next person about the prying eyes of the paparazzi. Now I'm no longer surprised. And in all honesty, Kate shouldn't be surprised either.

Much like putting up with  being called Kate Middleton for the rest of her life, photos taken in private moments seem to be inevitable. Honeymoon, holidays, walking on the beach, it's all fodder for what she does and what she wears. She signed up for a life of being in the public eye. She just saw what happened to Prince Harry and his photos. Regardless of whether it invaded his privacy, the nude photos became a story for a few days until Harry magically became a hero by stepping on a plane to Afghanistan. Catherine take note.

Catherine is holding her head high and putting on her brave face. What choice does she have? Shying away doesn't change anything.  She may even get an award for it. Since her marriage, people are  interested in every single aspect of her life. From her pantyhose, to her hair, to the groceries she buys, to drinking water instead of wine, to her shoes, to a scar on her head. No detail is too minute to feed an insatiable appetite. Would media outlets really publish these photos if there wasn't some sort of demand for them?

It's very clear that the media has learnt absolutely nothing from what happened to Diana. Nothing has changed and with cameras at every turn, it's only going to get worse. Catherine would be naive to think otherwise.

© Marilyn Braun 2012

 Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.Copyright Marilyn Braun 2005-2011. May not be used without permission.

Who is ultimately to blame for the Catherine Cambridge topless photos? We are

To contact us Click HERE
For the last few days I've read plenty of articles deploring the coverage of Catherine Cambridge's topless photos. Some vehemently blame the photographer and the publication, others blame Catherine for daring to sunbathe topless. I have yet to see an article blaming us too.

Now a lawsuit from William and Catherine for invasion of privacy because they feel that they had a 'reasonable expectation of privacy'.  Yes, they do have an expectation of privacy. They deserve it. But it's unfortunate that with the level of media interest in Kate and the fact that there are cameras everywhere, that expectation has become naive at best. 

Should she have kept her top on? Yes. If you're in a sanctimonious mood, you could say she she is a future queen and it's undignified. Point taken. Catherine does not lead the life she did before and she's fooling herself to think otherwise. Neither William nor Catherine can afford to become complacent. Given that any vacation they've taken, including their honeymoon, has been invaded by a photographer's lens, they should know better. It was inevitable that this vacation would be too. But the photographs from the other vacations seem to be OK. Justified in some way because they were in public, because what they do is of interest. Yet, these same arguments do not apply to this instance. Why? Because Catherine is topless.  If she wasn't topless, there would be no uproar. In fact, we'd probably be discussing designer of the bathing suit she was wearing and where we can buy it. Then it would be OK. Even though it is the same location, same photographer and same camera lens used.

I don't condone the topless photos. I don't condone any photos of Catherine taken outside of her royal duties. Why? Because if she deserves privacy sunbathing topless, she should also deserve it when she walks her dog, strolls on the beach, gets her hair done or shops for groceries. Justify those instances and we have created a slippery slope that leads to these photos.

This situation has been compared to the harassment Diana endured until her death. Why? Because those of us around at the time wanted more. Even going on a private vacation didn't deter photographers. Did she deserve privacy? Yes, she was no longer royal. Cut free from the expectations of royal duty, she no longer owed us anything. But we still wanted it, in one form or another until the we strangled the golden goose with our insatiable interest. Blame the drunk driver, but who was he trying to escape from? Our desire for Diana's image. 15 years later, the only thing that has changed is the subject.

The interest in Catherine is understandable, but it has consequences. The photographer would not have taken those photos, the publications would not buy or publish them if there wasn't interest. Make a story out of what she buys for dinner or a scar on her head, or the shoes she wears and it creates an insatiable appetite for more. Who wants more? We do.

Continue to blame the photographer, the publication and Catherine. We deserve some of the blame too. 

 © Marilyn Braun 2012

Thank you for enjoying this article. If you use the information for research purposes, a link to credit the work I've put into writing it would be appreciated.Copyright Marilyn Braun 2005-2011. May not be used without permission.

It's all about the Gold

To contact us Click HERE
Lancome teamed up with Vancouver native, photographer and artist extraordinare Raphael Mazzuco along with his makeup artist wife Lisa Marie,  to create an amazing limited edition makeup box collection called Gold Fascination representing Canada's female athletes focused on winning Gold Medals at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics Games.  
Friday February 5th there will be a Red Carpet Fashionista Event at Studio 538 that you don't want to miss!

Check out the video of how the artwork came about:

How to get the Look: Kate Middleton's Wedding Makeup

To contact us Click HERE

People ask me all the time if I'd ever do my own makeup for my wedding day. I've always said no, that I'd rather not have to deal with the stress of doing it myself. Then I heard Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cornwall did her own makeup. Now, the day I get married, I might have a large wedding but its extremely doubtful I would get married in the presence of not only 1,900 people but also the majority of the world watching me exchange vows with a Prince. So, if Kate can do it, I'm pretty sure that I can.Here's a guide to getting Kate's makeup look that she so deftly did on her own. Rumor has it she used Bobbi Brown cosmetics but I've added some of my favorite products to use and tricks to achieve the look!

Step 1: Prep your skin. I can't emphasize the importance of a good skin regimen leading up to your special day. While makeup can do wonders, no one wants to shellack product on their face to create a lit-from-within glow. If you don't already have a skin care regimen, start now! You don't have to go out and buy a plethora of products. Start with your basics : Cleanser, Toner, Moisturizer (CTM). Once you get into a solid pattern CTMing of 2x day, everyday, you'll want to incorporate an Exfoliant. Exfoliants are my favvvvvvvvvorite skin care products. They make dull skin look lively, a rough skin feel soft and most importantly they allow your skin to reproduce new skin cells so the old dead ones don't stay around! The best advice I can give you about buying CTM products and an exfoliant is pay attention to what you're buying. If you aren't familiar, ask (ahem! *wink wink*). If you've used them all before but are wanting to upgrade, drop by a few counters, get as much information as possible, get a demonstration of the product and a sample if you can. Its important to educate yourself about the products you buy rather than "i'll just buy it because she/he/they/vogue said its good". Beauty professionals are there to help you but some unfortunately work on a commission basis but if you're a smart cookie (and you are) you can tell the difference between a good beauty professional and a sales-driven one. Continue with your skin care regimen leading up to your wedding day, however, I would suggest if it is within your means, to treat yourself to a facial (or two) the month of your wedding. Getting a facial not only gives your skin a good cleaning but its also an hour to relax and let someone else take care of you. There are so many different facials, so get one that appeals to you but my recommendation would be that if you only get 1, get an oxygen facial. Oxygen facials follow in the similar steps of a regular facial, however an oxygen facial provides a boost of active ingredients to the skin and not only helps with the release of impurities but also gives and overall smoother, brighter looking skin. Many spa's now provide Oxygen facials, I had one at Absolute Spa once and it.was.divine! Rumor has it, Kate Middleton got one too ;-)
Step 2- Groom your brows You can either leave this to a professional if you get it done regularly or groom them yourself but if you've never groomed your brows, please don't get tweezer happy and start plucking away. Ask a friend where they get theirs done and ask for a consult if possible. Strong, clean eyebrows are key in looking fabulous in your wedding photos.
Step 3-Wedding Day Makeup Try if you can to get some sleep the night before. If not, CTM your face as you normally do but after rinsing before applying moisturizer, splash your face with cold water. Not only will it wake you up but it will also perk up your skin.You'll need the following products, I've recommended my favorites to get the look: Primer (Benefit That Gal) Foundation (Lancome Teinte Idole Fresh Wear) Concealer (Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage) Powder ( Makeup Forever HD Microfinish Powder) Eyeshadow (Dior 5-Color Eye Shadow Palette in Rosy Tan) Eyeliner (Bobbi Brown Creamy Eye Pencil is Caviar) Mascara (Lancome Hypnose Mascara Waterproof in Black) Eyebrow color (Bobbi Brown Brow Pencil in Mahogany) Blush (Nars Blush in Amour) Lipliner (Lancome Le Lipstique in Sheer Raspberry) Lipstick/Lipgloss (Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Tulle/ Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss in Buff)
FACE: Start with a well moisturized face. Apply primer all over with either a brush or your fingers but concentrate the most on the t-zone. Wait a few seconds for it to dry and set before applying foundation. **foundation must match your skin perfectly** I always recommend applying foundation with a brush because you get the most coverage with the least amount of product. Don't use too much foundation, you don't need it but make sure you apply the product evenly and blend really well. Apply concealer under the eyes, in between the eyebrows, around the nose, on your chin and over any blemishes or discoloration you might have. **remember under eye concealer is always one shade lighter than your skin whereas to cover blemishes, etc, it matches your skin** Set with powder using a big powder brush or a velour puff, concentrating on the under eyes, nose, forehead and chin.
EYES: Apply a bit of concealer to the eyelid as a primer and powder to set. Start with the lightest shade (in your palette of brown and peachy colors) and apply all over your eye from lash line to brow bone. Use the second lightest shade and contour your eye in the crease. **blend well** Take the second darkest color (not the darkest) and apply on your lid using a light application. Using your eye pencil, draw a line as close to your lash line as possible from the outside in towards the tear duct. Take an angle brush and the darkest shadow shade, go over the line softly to both smudge it lightly and set the shadow. Do this last step on the bottom lash line as well. Curl your lashes and swipe two coats of waterproof mascara.
BROWS: Sharpen your eye brow pencil and lightly brush strokes as if mimicking individual brow hairs on your eye brow. Fill in the brow and using a clean angle brush, smooth over the lines and perfect your brow shape making sure the color is evenly applied and no smudges outside the brow shape.
CHEEKS: Smile to find the apples of your cheeks and using a light hand, apply the pink shade from the apples of your cheek up towards the ear/hairline blending well. **a little blush goes a long way so don't over apply but apply just enough that you can see it and it complements the rest of your look**
LIPS: Make sure your lips are free of cracking and smooth **the night before, use your exfoliant on an old toothbrush and "brush" your lips for a smooth, soft lip the next morning** Fill your lip in with lipliner and brush to even it out. Using a stiff lip brush, apply lipstick all over to fill in the lips. Finish off with a bit of gloss (not too much!)
VOILA!! Now you look like a Princess!

KATE Middleton keeps Prince William Grounded.

To contact us Click HERE

 KATE Middleton keeps Prince William grounded.

Behind every good mad there is a great women and Kate is the women that helps to keep Prince William grounded. You can read more about this below:

The pair — who wed last year — live in a cozy farmhouse in Anglesey, Wales, where William is stationed as a search-and-rescue pilot with the Royal Air Force.

Sources say the pair don’t have a housekeeper, chef or stylist — and Kate enjoys fulfilling her role as an officer’s wife.

“Kate makes recipes learned from her mother,” a source said.

“She brings a sense of ordinariness that William has always craved.”...More at Kate Middleton Makes Prince William Feel Normal! « Showbiz Spy ...

The interesting travel hangings of Louis Vuitton

To contact us Click HERE

The interesting travel hangings of Louis Vuitton includes a variety of brand to travel as the theme to create products, steamboat ,blue paint locomotive,ebony hard box, pink opal box and pave diamond dispatcher whistle,to wake up people missing for the golden age of travel and romantic feelings.





Louis Vuitton Jewelry
Chopard jewelry
D&G jewelry
Gucci jewelry
Juicy jewelry
Mont Blanc jewelry
Mont Blanc PenTweet