The Obama's Visit a Marine Base in Hawaii on Christmas Day..

President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama (wearing Narciso Rodriguez) entered Anderson Hall on Marine Corps Base Hawaii to say hello to U.S. Marines having Christmas dinner in Kailua December 25, 2009. Obama is on Christmas vacation in Hawaii.



President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama greeted marines during Christmas dinner at Anderson Hall on Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kailua, Hawaii Friday, Dec. 25, 2009. The Obamas are in Hawaii for the holidays.
[photos via AP Photo]

POTUS & FLOTUS Send Christmas Greetings to the Nation and Military Families...

via HuffPo:
President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama offered Christmas wishes to the nation on Thursday, including a special thanks for the U.S. military. They urged Americans to help support military families this holiday season.

The Obama's Arrive in Hawaii for Christmas 2009...

President Barack Obama, first lady Michelle Obama, and daughters Sasha and Malia arrived at Hickam Air Force base for their holiday vacation in Honolulu, Thursday, Dec. 24, 2009.


[photos via AP Photo and Reuters]

The Obama's Depart the White House to Spend Christmas in Hawaii...

President Barack Obama waved as he walked with first lady Michelle O. (in her black Sonia Rykiel overcoat) and their daughters Sasha and Malia on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington before their departure December 24, 2009. Obama is going to spend Christmas and New Year holidays in Hawaii with his family.

Michelle O. Along with Sasha & Malia, Read to Kids at a Children's Hospital in D.C.

First lady Michelle Obama and her daughters Sasha and Malia read Christmas stories to children at the Children's National Medical Center on December 22, 2009 in Washington, DC. The first lady toured the hospital visiting the Heart and Kidney Unit before greeting 200 patients and hospital staff.

FLOTUS read the classic ’Twas the Night Before Christmas” and took a few questions from some kids. One child asked how many trees are in the White House. The first lady answered: “Twenty-six” -prompting Malia Obama to add: “Unfortunately you don’t get presents under all of them.”



First lady Michelle Obama hugged patients Michael DeMaio (L) and Taylor Buckles (2nd L) after reading the book 'Twas The Night Before Christmas' at the Children's National Medical Center in Washington, December 22, 2009.
[photos via Getty Images and Reuters]

Kate Spade All About Bows

These adorable festive shoes from Kate Spade are perfect for holiday parties. They are sure to be conversation starters and they might be just the perfect thing to get you noticed by that cute guy you have been eyeying.

Bleubird Vintage

Bleubird Vintage is a great online resource for vintage clothing. All of the items are nicely styled and the collection is well curated. But you have got to act fast if you see something you like because it will no doubt go quickly.

Holiday Dresses Caroline Hedaya

Looking for something flirty to wear to a holiday party this season? Check out Caroline Hedaya’s dress collection. The designs are still classic but fun. Appropriate for the office party and then later when you really kick your heels up. View more of the collection here.

Etsy Holiday Gift Guides

In case you have been hiding under a rock and aren't aware of the online extravaganza Etsy, here is your chance to get acquainted. Crafters and artisans alike set-up independent mini boutiques on Etsy. And we are not just talking about your Aunt Jean's sweaters. There are tons of cool finds for fashion, housewares, jewelry and more. And the deals can't be beat.Check out Etsy's curated Holiday Gift Guides.

Alice + Olivia New Online Shop

One of my favorite New York based designers Alice + Olivia just opened a new online e-commerce shop. So now you don't have to push your way through Time Square to get to their brick and mortar location at Bryant Park. Browse their most recent collection online. I am especially coveting the sparkly cardigans and matching mini-skirts.

Calvin Klein - Win a Trip to New York

Win a trip to New York city from Calvin Klein. The winner and a friend will be treated to a 3 night, 4 day stay at the Standard hotel in the meatpacking district. The prize includes transportation, two round trip tickets to a broadway show, a full experience at the de berardinis salon and dinner each night at the restaurant of your choice including one evening at the Standard Grill. The winner will also receive a $1000 american express gift card and a $1000 gift card to calvinklein.com. Enter Here.

Faux Fur Bohemian Chic

What is on your Christmas list this year? Here is one thing that you should add. The quality of faux fur has come a long way and there are some great pieces out there. Add some bohemian chic with this vest by Graham & Spencer $328 or try this cropped style Venus In Faux Furs Jacket $198. Both available at Free People.

Black Friday Sales New York

If you are hitting the streets the Friday after Thanksgiving for some shopping steals here are some sales to check out....

Intermix - Online and In-Store Additional 25% Off Sale Merchandise

New York and Company - From 11/25 to 11/30 receive 50% off absolutely everything including sale items.

Shopbop - Deals to be had Friday 11/27 to 11/30 Spend $300+, Save $50, Spend $500+, Save $100, Spend $700+, Save $150, Spend $1,000+, Save $225.

Bird (Brooklyn) - 25% - 40% Off Fall Merchandise.

Built by Wendy - 30% off select items from the fall collection.

Rebecca Minkoff - Select items on sale.

Charlotte Russe - 25% off all clothing and accessories in stores and online 11/27.

Three Sheets to the Wind - 30% Off Select Linens Wall Prints and Organic Cotton Totes.

Michael Kors and Lucky Magazine

The December issue of Lucky Magazine debuted this metallic totebag. The totebag is a designer collaboration between Michael Kors and Lucky. The Hamilton Chain Tote, has a classic shape and it's large enough to carry all that you will need to transition from the office to the holiday parties. $298 at the Lucky Store

New Product Review: Vaseline Sheer Infusion

I recently had the opportunity to try out the newest product by Vaseline. The new Sheer Infusion with Stratys-3 is a body lotion designed to infuse and suspend moisture across all layers of the skin. It truly has a different feeling on your skin. Instead of other moisturizing lotions with can feel thick, goopy and sticky, Sheer Infusion feel virtually weightless. It packs a powerful moisturizing punch, leaving your skin soft and subtle all day. It comes in three different variants Vitamin Burst, Botanical Blend, and Mineral Renewal. The Vitamin Burst is my favorite, it has a light refreshing citrus smell. Learn more about Vaseline Sheer Infusion and the latest Stratys-3 technology.

Stylish Winter Coats

As the temperatures start to drop in NYC, stylish winter coats becomes top of mind. Here are some styles that really stand out and put a unique spin on the standards. Shown: Alice + Olivia Petal Coat with Belt $596, Lark Coat $328 French Connection, Filippa K Laura Coat $575.00.

Natori Sample Sale Today

Natori is having a sample sale that starts today November 18th - Thursday November 19th. Save on Natori's fabulous collection of lingerie and sleepwear. 102 Madison Ave. 3rd Floor. Hours 10-7, 10-4.

Feminine Plaid Shirts

Plaid has been a big trend this fall but it can be hard to pull off without feeling like a lumber jack. Gap.com has just introduced these new plaid shirts for the holidays. The addition of the ruffle is just the right touch to make these shirts more feminine and wearable.

Save 25% off with Coupon Code: GIFT123

Rainy Weather Fashion

Is the rainy weather giving you the fashion blues? Here are a few newly designed rain wear pieces that may have you singing a different tune. Marimekko Kiku Red Umbrella $40 at Finnstyle and See by Chloe Black Rain Boot $195 at Jildor.

Metalicious Jewelry

Metalicious Jewelry is the brainchild of Manhattan-based designer Stephanie Maslow-Blackman. Her collection is inspired by the form and sparkle of gemstones, diamonds and precious metals. Each piece is made by hand. I love the stud earrings, they have just the right amount of shimmer and come in a variety of different metals and cuts including an adorable heart shape. Visit Metalicious for more styles.

Saffron Shop Brooklyn

A new shop Saffron has recently opened in my neighborhood in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. The shop sells a mix of items including flowers and vintage clothing. They will also be exhibiting different artists work. They had some great vintage finds and the shop owners were awesome. I will definitely be making another trip to Saffron soon.

31 Hanson Place, Brooklyn, NY 11217

Halloween Makeup Step by Step at MAC

Check out these fabulously goth Halloween makeup looks from MAC Cosmetics. These are both part of the Artistry in Action series. The Artistry in Action series allows you to watch online while make up artist create these looks. I am especially loving those black vampy lips. Watch the video at MAC Cosmetics online.

DXC x MAHVEE

Testing out the new blog.

Bloomingdales New York The Biggest Makeover

Bloomingdale's Flagship Store in Manhattan has completely refurbishes its main floor beauty department."The overall goal of The Biggest Makeover in NYC was to create a floor that has the largest and most dynamic world of beauty in the City," said Michael
Gould, chairman and CEO of Bloomingdale's. The cosmetics department has been transformed from one giant room into three distinct rooms with different personalities.
The mensware department that was previously sharing the space has moved to the lower level allowing the beauty floor to expand and add more brands including Giorgio Armani; Bare Escentuals; Bumble and bumble; Jo Malone; Sisley; and shu uemura. Bumble and bumble has a 'no wash, no appointment' dry styling counter and shu uemura's oval shaped shop has A Tokyo Lash Bar. 500 special events on are scheduled to take place in the newly renovated department over the next two months.

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Phone Home Converse All Stars

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Beautiful Baubles

The "It" accesory this season is a killer necklace. And not just any simple charm necklace as in seasons past, but a chunky decadent one. The two necklaces below are by designer Sequin and are the perfect winter accent. Available at Intermix $145-$195.

Master Piece for Opening Ceremony

I adore these bright color block backpacks designed by Master-Piece for Opening Ceremony.
Master-piece creates hand crafted, quality products that are built to last. The Osaka-based company pairs their quality craft with stylish accents like the suede used here.

Two Exciting Fashion Giveaways

StyleFixx NYC Event VIP Ticket Giveaway: Join New York City’s most fashion-forward women for two nights of shopping, featuring over 50 cutting-edge designers and brands. Two nights - October 21st & 22nd. While you are shopping get complimentary hair treatments, messages and goodie bags. Project Runway Designer Kara Janx will be there showing her Fall 2009 line too. Comment on this post who your favorite New York designer is and why for a chance to win VIP tickets to this event (be sure and include your contact info as well).



Budget Fashionista is hosting a $500 Shopping Spree Giveaway. Never Pay Full Price for Designer Fashion? Tell Budget Fashionista why you're a Maxxinista and You
Can Win a $500 Shopping Spree to TJ Maxx.

Pretty Lingerie Accents

This fall there has been an influx of lace inspired looks that have had me searching through my lingerie drawer for the perfect accent piece. Lingerie no longer is reserved just for the bedroom, now you can wear it peeking out from under sweaters, blazers and skirts. One of my favorite stores in New York for these perfectly pretty pieces is Only Hearts. Shown: Point D' Esprit Cami $66. Silk Charmeuse Slip $122.

For Plus Size Clothing and Lingerie check out Ashley Stewart.

New Products: Fresh Minerals Collection

I recently had the opportunity to try some new products from one of my favorite beauty companies Fresh. The new FreshMinerals collection allow the skin to breathe and don't block or clog the skins pores. Mineral make-up also offers protection from UVA light and protects the skin from environmental pollutants. All of the collections foundation and bronzer products offer SPF 20 as well. And the products are all water resistant, so they won’t come off with perspiration. I tried the Mineral Duo Loose Leaf Powder Foundation. I was impressed with the weightlessness of the powder. It literally felt lighter than the other facial powders I have used. The foundation powder covered my pours and smoothed out the color in my skin flawlessly. I also tried the Fresh Minerals Super Volume Mascara. The brush was great for applying the color and separating my lashes. There was no clumping and my lashes didn't stick together. Check out the Fresh website for more of the freshMinerals products including eye shadows, eyeliners and lip gloss.