Sunday Supper: Maple Glazed Pork Chops with Apple Potato Kraut

The aroma of savory sausages complimented by the sweetness of the maple syrup and the Riesling make this dish undeniable. Slowly cooked savory meals are a perfect transition into our upcoming Thanksgiving holiday season. I especially like the touch of heat from the cayenne and the sausage.

***Two things of note. One, don't fear the kraut. If you don't really like kraut, it may be the pickling juices. Try it once it is rinsed and squeezed of the juices. It is actually quite mild and offers a textural aspect to this meal. Secondly, it is hard to capture the essence of this meal with a photo.

What you need

4 c. chicken stock

1/2 bottle of German Riesling

3 T. apple cider vinegar

3 garlic cloves chopped

1 bay leaf

1 sprig fresh or 1 t. dried thyme

pancetta cut into small cubes

mild to spicy sausage or chicken apple sausage

1 jar of sauerkraut rinsed with cold water (squeeze excess liquid out)

a sprinkle of fennel seeds (10 or so)

1 medium yellow onion sliced

1 granny smith green apple

Yukon Gold potatoes cut into quarters (1 per person)

thick cut pork chops

100% pure maple syrup (1 T. per person)

Cayenne

paprika

kosher salt

cracked black peppercorns

What to do

On medium heat, saute the pancetta in a dutch oven for about 5 minutes. Add the sliced onion and the chopped garlic and continue to saute, stirring often for another 5 minutes. Add the thyme, bay leaf, fennel seeds, Riesling, chicken stock, and apple cider vinegar and stir. Add the rinsed and squeezed sauerkraut and the potatoes making sure that they are submerged in the juices. Bring to a slow boil and reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 50 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare your chops by seasoning with paprika, salt, cracked pepper and cayenne (to taste) on both sides. Allow to rest for 30 minutes at room temp. This makes it easier to get a nice even cook on your pork. Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees. In a saute pan, add a T. good olive oil and bring pan to a medium high heat. Add chops to the pan searing for about 3 minutes on each side. Put the pan with the chops in the oven and cook for 15 minutes.

While the chops are baking, slice the green apple into thin pieces. Add to the dutch oven and stir to combine. Recover and simmer for 10 more minutes. Heat the maple syrup in a sauce pan over low heat. When the chops are done, pull from oven and remove from pan and place on a cutting board. Allow chops to rest for 3-5 minutes keeping all of the juices in the meat. While the meat is resting, plate the apple potato kraut equally into a bowl or in the center of a plate. Drizzle each pork chop with a T. of maple syrup. Place the chops on top of the kraut and serve immediately. Pair a delicious German Riesling.

Say Hello To My Little Friends: Kimberlee's Pick of the Week

VIP access to Cartier is not a requirement when creating an accessory wardrobe. Kim introduces you to her latest obsessions and gives you tips to create your own perfectly paired collection. 

As is true of all eternally memorable personalities in history, a perfect look achieves true greatness only when complemented by a stellar entourage. I would like to take a moment, and introduce you to several new members of mine.

Rachel

Commanding attention with her show-stopping charisma, she draws a sultry air to the seemingly ordinary.  Semi-sheer with a dusting of snow leopard, these jet black tights bring more “oh my” to the scene than a potent whiff of a pheromone.  At $12, Rachel is simply irresistible.  Snow Leopard Tights

Victoria

The elegance and sophistication of her Old Hollywood glamour brings color and femininity to every look she graces.  Her hues of twinkling electric jade, larger than life presence (approximately 3” diameter) and uniquely brilliant magnetic clasp make her an easy choice for a go-to statement piece.  Her understated price-tag at $18.99 makes her a MUST “know.”  Victorian Chic Bejeweled Green Cuff  ***Unfortunately, this piece went fast and is SOLD OUT. They can email you when it comes back in stock.

Heather

Bubbling with exuberant personality, her adorable nature seems to sing out with whimsy.  From Heather’s color drenched feather, to the eye-catching sparkle of her brilliant green rhinestones set atop a dark brass peacock, she is effortlessly unique.  And despite her $16.99 price-tag, she proves to be quite priceless.  Peacock Pride Necklace 

Alexandria

Her luster is that of a Princess, her grace like a blossom frozen in time.  Delicate, lustrous, and polished her golden tone adds radiant sparkle to any look.  Her unique golden bead strung elastic band allows her to glide easily on to any hand, and her noticeable presence (1.5” diameter) commands attention to her swirling petals.  Beautiful, striking, and only $18.00.  Isis Ring  

Tips when choosing accessories to adorn your wardrobe treasures... 

• Seek out pieces that offer intrigue, uniqueness, and sparkle.   
• When selecting faux metals that will touch the skin, reach for “vintage” or “antiqued” as they will not appear to fade nearly as quickly.   
• Save the shiny “bling” for buckles, ring centerpieces, and brooches where they will retain a much longer shelf life.   
• When choosing a brazen pattern in accessories such as tights or scarves, opt for a neutral color to keep it classy. 
  Photos from Francesca's and shopRuche.com.

Color Your Hair Perfectly This Winter: Tips To Compliment Your Skin Tone and Add Depth

When it comes to coloring your hair this fall, it's important to add depth to brighten up your look and bring out your skin tone. During the winter, you don't want to have too much contrast in your color. Adding ribbons of medium browns, mahogany, rich velvet browns and caramels will give your look depth and shine. Dark colors tend to shine and light colors tend to be more matte unless you of course you add gloss.

I just had another amazing hair session with Christina, our hair contributor. She specializes in coordinating hair color and skin tones for the perfect complimentary coloring. In the winter months our skin is no longer tan and our noses tend to get a little red. Having the wrong tones put in your hair color can make your nose appear even more red, your eyes look sunken and dark and your blemishes will be more apparent. Yes, you can apply make-up to cover these but it still will not look nearly as good as a correct color would.

The true test is to go in without makeup and see how your skin looks after your color is applied. If your skin appears uniform in color and your eyes are bright, it compliments you. If you really can't stand the look without makeup, it's usually a sign. If you automatically appear tired and blotchy, the color is not complimentary. Your stylist may be able to apply a toner to neutralize the color to make it softer against the skin.

Adult Acne: Factors and Other Things to Consider

I am 33 years old and breaking out like a teenager. ARGH! What is that about? Some say hormones, some say it may be the weather but what I say is that it's awful.

Three years ago, I moved to the Bay Area and had the worst acne I have ever had in my life. It was all over my face, back and chest. It was embarrassing and I had to choose my outfit based on my breakouts. It was the worst feeling in the world. I couldn't even make eye contact I felt so conscious. Finally, I went to the derm and he prescribed a 10% benzol for my body and 5% for my face. That cleared it up and I haven't had it that bad since but each year around October and November, I break out. It's like clockwork.

So here we are in October and low and behold, I had a strange small bumps/breakout all over my forehead area and sides of the eyes just above the cheeks and on my neck. My NECK?? This time I wasn't the only one. Two others, a male and a female, that I work with also experienced the same breakout.

Since we have never broken out there before, we were sure we had come in contact with something that caused all of us to have the same reaction. We felt completely helpless as it seemed to get worse rather than better. This went on for two weeks and my make-up only accentuated it. Finally, I used an acne moisturizer and it went away completely within a week. It reminded me that clear skin is a gift and many people battle acne every day depleting their self confidence. I had to figure out why we get acne as adults. What it comes down to is imbalance.


Factors to consider: 

1. Hormones: Hormonal changes due to pregnancy and birth control play a role in adult acne. 
2. Weather: The winter weather can cause our skin to dry out. Consider a heavier moisturizer to balance.
3. One factor that I failed to recognize was stress. Stress can cause acne in adults and we are all coming up on the most stressful time of the year, the holidays. Find ways to balance your life now so when the holidays get here, you will have sound practices in place. I had been really stressed out and over worked causing me to not sleep or eat properly which leads me to the next point.  
4. Diet: Our bodies naturally dispose of toxins through our organs; however, it can also flush out toxins through the pores of our skin. Eating a well balanced diet will help reduce the toxins and waste in the body. I had been eating takeout for two weeks and not drinking very much water.

The Basics

• Don't touch your face. Your hands touch everything from computers, door knobs to the remote control. Imagine how many hands have touched those before you. Gross. 

• Don't pick your at your face: We have all had that moment where we are out in public and one rears it's ugly head. Picking at it only transfer germs and makes you breakout even more. Am I asking you to walk around with whiteheads, no. I am saying that there is a better way to extract. We have germs underneath our nails that you don't want coming in contact with your pimple.  If you must, clean your hands and nails thoroughly and cover your fingers tips with a piece of paper towel or toilet paper before extracting. Again, I don't recommend this but desperate times call for desperate measures. What I would recommend is that you pick up a bottle of Burt's Bees Herbal Blemish Stick and carry it in your purse. At the first sign of a breakout, put a little bit directly on the pimple and it will be cleared up in a few days vs. a week or linger if you pick it and scar it. Scaring can take 6 months to a year to clear. Here is a great video: How to Remove Whiteheads

• Exfoliate: This is the key to keeping your skin bright and clean. Gently removing dead skin cells helps prevent clogging. Check with your skin care specialists to determine your specific needs. Over exfoliating can cause you to breakout too.

Other Things to Consider: 
Clean your cell phone and/or work phone receiver. We all share the phone and our cell phones are tossed in our purses or pocket and used after we have touched money or shaken hands with someone. Then we put the phone to our face and hold it there while we multi-task like opening the door with one hand and holding a coffee in the other.

Clean your purse handles. Think about all of the surfaces that our purses come in contact with. A public bathroom door or floor, public transportation doors and handles, money, hooks etc. All public and rarely cleaned. Then we touch it transferring the germs.

Drink more water: Water helps flush out toxins and will help keep your skin looking plump and soft. Drinking water also keeps your breath fresh.

Your hair: My bangs were getting in my eyes at work so I would brush them to the side. Every time I did that, I was touching my forehead causing me to breakout in that spot. Additionally, your hair has natural oils and hair products in it so try to keep your hair off of your face while you sleep and throughout the day.

Coffee: Benefits of Caffeine and Tips to Brew the Perfect Cup

Nothing begins until I have a cup of coffee in the morning. The smell of a freshly brewed pot is invigorating and can bring a smile to my face the minute it hits my olfactory bulb.

Coffee is like wine and there are undertones, nuances and flavor profiles that can be enjoyed one cup at a time. I drink my coffee black to taste the subtleties that each bean has to offer. Drinking it without additives allows for the true flavors to come through.

Benefits of Caffeine
Coffee has the perfect amount of caffeine to awake my senses, speed up my metabolism, and makes my workout better.  I work out longer and stronger after having a cup or two. It makes me more alert and stimulates my thought process making more productive on a day when I am less than awake. I feel refreshed, revived and productive. Studies also show that consumption can also lower risk of stroke and diseases such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's. (1) 


Tips to brew the perfect cup

• Buy whole bean coffee: When you grind your beans yourself, it stays fresher longer and it tastes better.
• Buy a Burr grinder: Did you know that the grind that you choose depends on the way in which your coffee is brewed? For a serious drinkers, the grind is critical. Obtaining the perfect size you taste all the subtleties the bean has to offer. 
• Use a Carafe: Once your brew is complete, transfer your coffee into a carafe. Leaving the pot on the heat, changes the flavor and can burn your coffee.
• As always, drink it fresh. 

Resources
Web MD. Neil Osterweil . Say it's so Joe: Potential benefits and drawbacks of coffee.

Sunday Supper: Citrus Snapper and Chorizo Potato Hash with Wine Pairing Tips

Fall has finally arrived. Today is cooler, rainy and perfect for heartier fare. This dish combines the rich savory flavor of chorizo with the bright, acidity from the citrus and white wine. It is simple to make and can be done in 30 minutes or so.

One challenge I face with any fish dish is being hungry a few hours later. So to combat that, we added a secondary protein to the dish as well as a starch. The fish is light and flaky and the hash is rich and hearty. It is the perfect balance.

When pairing this dish with wine, choose a or dry German Riesling like a Kabinett (pronounced Cabin-ET) or an Oregon Pinot Noir if you would like a red.

When choosing a Riesling, you will want one that is lighter in body, crisp and has good acidity to cut the richness from the chorizo. The Pinot Noir from Oregon is fruit forward but has enough acid to cut through the dish.

What you need
1/4 lb. chorizo
1 yukon gold potato per person
1 yellow onion
1/2  bag / bunch spinach leaves
2 T. olive oil
salt / pepper
4 garlic cloves slivered
3-4 oz. of snapper per person
scallions
1/4 c. white wine
2 T. butter
paprika
lemon zest

What to Do
You are going to need three pans for this. One for your chorizo, one for your fish and one for your potatoes. The potatoes will take the longest so get those going first. Cube your potatoes and add to 1 T. olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat stirring often for 20 minutes or until tender and cooked through. In a second pan, cook your chorizo completely. Remove from pan, setting aside, reserving the chorizo oil in the pan for the sauce. Remove your pan from the heat for the moment. 

Next, dice your onion, sliver your scallions, zest your lemon and wash your spinach. Add the onion to the potatoes and stir. Wait to add your spinach just before serving. The heat will wilt it and preserving it's bright green color. The scallions and lemon zest will be used to top the dish.

Heat your chorizo pan over medium high heat. Add 1 T butter and garlic slivers until fragrant, approximately one minute, stirring to incorporate the chorizo flavor left in the pan.  Add 1/4 c white wine and reduce for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with paprika and salt & pepper to taste.

Add 1 T. butter and 1 T. olive oil to your fish pan and sear snapper for 5 minutes on one side 3-4 minutes on the other side. Time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. If they are thinner, reduce the cook time by a few minutes.

Plate your hash first placing your fish on top or near. Sauce each piece of fish then sprinkle with scallions and lemon zest.

Gotta Have It! Sephora's Free App For Your Smart Phone

The long overdue Sephora app has finally launched and you can download it for FREE from Sephora's website or the Apple Store. Sephora is making beauty easier to approach, find and try.

Why I love it: You can scan a bar code!! How rad is that?? My favorite button is "Today's Obsession" featuring the product of the day. You can also view past obsessions. 



Other Benefits:

• You can view your Beauty Insider account status
• Find the Sephora nearest you
• You are able to make notes regarding products that you find
• See ratings and reviews on thousands of products from readers and staff
• See videos on how to get the look, products and demos

Why shop online with Sephora?

• free returns
• free shipping with orders over $50
• 3 free samples
  
  photo from apple.com

Kimberlee's Pick of the Week: Tucker For Target

Strolling through the aisles of my local Target with a lengthy shopping list in hand, I happened across something that made me (as Willow Smith might say) flip my hair back and forth for a much closer look.  Having partnered with Gaby Basora to release a Tucker for Target collection in September of 2010, Target has been seducing me with these realistically priced pieces with couture labels attached. 

Tucker is prominently featured, and Rachel Zoe recommended, on shopping sites such as Piperlime and Shopbop displaying their high end pieces with seious investment price tags.  What made me do a double, triple, quadruple take while shopping my local store was the giant CLEARANCE sign hanging above the still half full racks of these amazing designs.  Seriously (I ask myself)?  Yes, self, seriously.  Snatching every size small from the racks before me, I brought them all home and had a tiny little self indulgent fashion show in front of my full length bedroom mirror.  I squealed a little louder over each piece whipping them off in a frenzy to get to the next.  From the delicate float of the lighter than air fabrics to the striking hues of the palette used to create them, every last item was blissfully perfect.  My top two favorites, I simply must recommend as “run (or drive as fast as you can) to your local Target and buy immediately” pieces. 

The Tucker Signature Blouse 

in any color they have left on the rack, in your standard size (I am typically a size Small, I purchased a size Small).  The modern cut is meant to be loose, billowy, and flow gracefully from the shoulder.  It does not emphasize a waistline without styling assistance, but is truly flattering by it’s own merit.  It can be tucked in to a great pair of trousers, belted with skinny jeans, or worn loose with anything (ok, not a baggy pant or trouser, please and thank you).  My purchase was in a deep shade of navy with a very subtle slightly geometric tone on tone pattern, ¾ length elasticized sleeves, a button up front, and a rounded neckline with stitching detail.  It is truly lady-like, totally designer, and only $20.98.  LOVE!

The Tucker Tunic Dress in orange, is an on-trend shade of autumn orange cut in a mod slightly A-line shape hitting just below the mid thigh complete with concealed side pockets.  Stretch?  Absolutely none, so you must try this one on before committing to a size.  The neckline features a skinny tie…which looks perfectly styled when left loose to reveal a slight V-neck to the tunic.  The color is amazingly compatible with tights in any deep neutral (black, gray, navy, plum), and with the versatile length of a tunic this piece can be easily paired with skinny jeans or the re-emerging flair leg denim.  Note - I did not adore this dress in black as much as I thought that I would, I found it to be somewhat reminiscent of a Halloween costume much unlike it’s counterpart in orange.  

Sugar Tip:  Do not be discouraged if you find that your size, style, or color is sold out online…check your local Target, as their racks are brimming with these pieces in many colors and sizes. 

Eggs?  Check.  Milk?  Check.  Designer clothing?  Check, check, check.  Thank You Target!

Love!

One Year Anniversary and Trunk Show With Luxe Boutique: November 13th

Please join us in celebrating our
One Year Anniversary Party
& Trunk Show
Saturday, November 13th
from 7-9pm!

Can you believe that we are coming up on a year of Sugar Lips Lifestyle Tips? In celebration, Kimberlee and I will be hosting a trunk show with our FabuLUXE friends from LUXE Boutique. I am finalizing the details of our fabulous trunks show with Luxe Boutique of L.A.  Please RSVP to sugarlipslifestyletips@gmail.com to get your name on the list-space is limited!

Join us for an evening of shopping and fun!

Who: You and your BFF and her other BFF
What: A Private Shopping Event and Celebration
Where: Easy Bay-The Montecito, 1315 Alma Avenue, Walnut Creek, CA
When: Saturday, Nov. 13th from 7-9

Tell me more...what is a Trunk Show?
A trunk show is a private shopping event where Luxe brings the boutique to you. The style specialists of Luxe will be bringing in the latest styles and trends from their collection so you can try them on before you buy.  Style specialists will be on-site to help you coordinate the perfect outfit and our own fashionista, KIMBERLEE SMITH, will be flying out to meet you and answer all of your style questions. You will also receive a FabuLUXE Club Card with your purchase.

All About Luxe...
LUXE Boutique carries chic, contemporary styles for women including accessories. My relationship with LUXE Boutique began back in March when I interviewed owner and fashionista, Dee Smith. Click here to read her answers! We had "met" via Twitter and like me, she is also a member of the  San Francisco's Fashion And Merchants Alliance (SFFAMA). She was a participant on a panel over the summer. The Boutique is located in west L.A. and she helps hosts events all over the state including but not limited to San Diego, San Francisco, and San Jose.

Extra Sugar...From Our Sponsors...
I am delighted to have the support of the following sponsors who are sprinkling some "extra sugar love" by donating a few items for our goodie bags and drawing! Thank you for your participation and your support!

Va De Vi Bistro and Wine Bar  will be donating some of their famous cookbooks featuring their celebrity chef and their best recipes to celebrate Sunday Suppers!

Zahava Designs is the creator of handmade original works of art, designed for your wearing pleasure! Sexy isn't it? We will be giving away a pair of her "Rock Me" earrings!

Dustin Maher has been successfully shaping up women across the country shredding hundreds and hundreds of pounds. I am a junkie for before and after shots so go to his website and check out the pictures from his clients. He has donated his wildly successful "Got Core" DVD set.
I can't wait for this event and more details are to come!


Pyramid Alehouse is famous for their award winning beers. They have received numerous awards over the past 25 years and continue to educate fans all over the country. Located all over the Northwest and downtown Walnut Creek with live music and great food.


yogaworks in Walnut Creek is one of my favorite places to unwind and de-stress.  Whether it is before work or after, the benefits of yoga are endless. The facility is beautiful with a full view of Mount Diablo. With the belief that yoga is for everyone, they offer classes for all levels from beginner to advanced.

Anna Patricia Designs will be creating a beautiful floral arrangement for the party. 



We look forward to seeing you there- Cyn & Kim

Shop Online Successfully: Tips From Our Style Expert to Maximize Your Money

Nobody knows online shopping quite like our style expert, Kimberlee. How does that diva find all of her great looks?She searches, scours, tries, buys and has chosen to share her tips with you.  Enjoy!

The pictures online can be drastically different than the real thing? How do you know that you are getting a good buy? 
Google it.  Whatever you are shopping for, chances are someone else has made the same purchase and has something to say about it.  Google the name of the product, and add the word “review” to the end of it.  You will find a great stash of reviews by real people that purchased the same item, what they thought of it’s performance, how the sizing fit them, etc.  This is a MUST DO before you purchase anything online.

How is it that one finds such great pieces without breaking the bank? Maximize your saving potential.  This is a three part system,

• STEP 1: Comparison Shop.  Check out at least three different sites that carry similar inventory, and see how their products compare to each other in price/quality/selection.  Who has the lowest shipping rates?  Who offers the easiest and least costly Return Policy?  You will be glad you checked those things out should you need to send something back, and at some point, you will.
   
• STEP 2: Sign up for their mailing lists, immediately.  Sign up before you make a purchase, because typically you will find a confirmation email in your box within a couple of days offering you a Thank You discount.  Use it on your first purchase!  
  
• STEP 3: Seek out Coupon Codes.  Free Shipping is usually the best discount to find, almost without fail.  Shipping costs can be in upwards of 20% of the cost of the item…yikes.  Check out sites like www.retailmenot.com or www.tjoos.com for great coupon codes and try them all to see if they will apply to your order…you are never penalized for trying!  Another great resource, is Google itself.  Type in the name of the store you are shopping from followed by the words “coupon code” and you might be surprised at how many are floating around out there.  WARNING…you will find that many will be expired, so be sure to keep that in mind. 

If I can't try it on, how will I determine the right fit?
Know how you measure up.  When shopping for clothing online, know your measurements EXACTLY, and utilize their size chart.  When looking at items you love, notice how they fit the model (key word here: MODEL = TALL & THIN).  Pieces with a fair amount of stretch are going to be a much more straight forward fit, however, If there is little to no stretch in the material…keep in mind that you may want to think about a size up so that it fits without pulling.  When shopping for denim, always check the alternate views of the piece.  If the MODEL’S bootie does not look completely amazing, the average woman’s will probably look worse.  Notice the poses.  If the model is posed in an odd way, it could be because she is trying to give the piece a bit of shape that it does not have by contorting her stance.  Be wary…

Try it, return it, rinse and repeat.  Some things that you order just simply will not work.  Make a point to know the store’s return policy before you purchase…my favorites are those that will accept a return in-store.  Easy, on the spot, no cost to return.  Second favorites are those that send a pre-addressed and pre-paid return label with the order, just stick it on the box it came in and away it goes!  For each piece you purchase that you must return, you can learn something from it.  Was it fit?  Well now you know the size/shape/cut that does NOT work for you…which helps to narrow down those that DO.  Was it quality?  Well now you know not to shop at that site again.  Use it as a learning experience, brush yourself off, and try again.  This is how you learn your favorite sites, your best fits, and the greatest deals. 

Tips To Increase Your Sex Appeal

I have a super sexy friend who can capture the attention of an entire room without even trying. Her walk, her talk, her style, her attitude and grace makes her undeniable and she knows it. I love it! I had to unlock her secret so I tagged along to see her in her element attempting to learn from the best.

Every girl has a friend who teaches you something that you take with you always. Given that her swagger is innate, she has picked up more along the way as have I. When I was 16, my friend, JB, taught me how to walk like a lady. He stressed the importance of a sexy, secure walk and I have never forgotten it. When I was 20, I dated a man who refined me. He taught me how to dine, converse, and learn to become the very best that I can be. At 34, I learned to be comfortable in my own skin from someone ten years my younger.  I will never forget these lessons. I hope these tips resonate with you the way they have with me.

Here are a few tips that I have learned from the greatest. Enjoy! Cyn

1) Educate yourself and contribute to conversations. Also, know who is the "Who's Who" of the circles that you run in or want to run in.

2) Self care is king. Take care of your body and yourself. Workout so that your body is long, lean and mean. Keep your appearance on point by making sure that your hair, nails and make-up is always presentable. Remember, you ARE your brand.

3) Walk the walk and talk the talk. Walk as if you demand the attention of everyone in the room and speak with grace- Don't be crass.Just make sure that you don't slip/wipe out or step on anyone's toes. It's a real buzz kill.

4) Be Responsible and Independent. How can you demand the respect if you don't respect yourself?

Top 3 Mascaras That Lift, Plump and Extend Your Lashes and Application Tips

Every woman in the world wants to feel beautiful. The difference between feeling good and feeling great can be a small modification that transforms my energy. Mascara is the one product that I can't live without. If I had to choose two things to carry with me, it would be a toothbrush and mascara.

SUGAR TIP for Choosing the Perfect Wand***

Finding the wand that works best for your look can be tricky. I find that if the wand has short bristles and are the same length from end to end, the look is less dramatic and more conservative. If the wand has longer bristles that are the same length from end to end, the look is bolder and more dramatic.  Some wands have longer bristles on one end and shorter bristles towards the end of the wand. This and a curved brush is ideal for those who have a hard time getting into the inner corners of the eye.

 <----Before Mascara

I have tried many different brands of mascara and have found the one that works best for my lashes. Everyone has different desires when choosing a mascara so I will mention what I look for and why some of the choices below work well for different situations. All of my choices below will not flake off and are water resistant. I don't like waterproof mascara as it is too hard to get off for me. Because my lashes are longer, it tends to get underneath my eyes and is hard to get off from smiling and laughing. Can't stop that now can I? I love a good giggle.

Top 3 Favorite Mascaras
Number 1: Clinique High Impact $14
Number 2: DiorShow $24
Number 3: Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara $14

SUGAR TIP for The Perfect Application*** 
Take the wand at the lash line and wiggle it back and forth to separate your lashes. Continue in one fluid motion to the tips of your lashes and repeat until the desired thickness is achieved.

Clinique High Impact

Why: This is my daily go-to tube. I love a bold, black lash line. This one lifts, thickens and extends and is perfect for a dramatic lash but can be used daily for a definitive look. I have tried others but nothing compares to this one; I always go back to it. Bring on the volume!! LOVE.

With Mascara--------> Now you see why I can't live without it.

DiorShow

Why: This is for maximum drama. This mascara gives an extra bold look by adding more as it dries.  You can go fora bold, stunning, I demand your attention look or a quick once over will set you straight for the day.

Clinique Lash Doubling
This is a little on the conservative side for me. When I want a soft, casual eye, this is what I choose. It lengthens and defines without thickening too much and taking away from my subtle, soft make-up day. If you crave a look that is defined yet understated, this is your tube. It will last for the entire day and remain beautiful. 

SUGAR TIP For Extra Lift*** Apply your mascara with one or two strokes from lash line to tip. Allow for your lashes to dry just long enough to apply mascara to your second eye. Go back and hold the wand at the base of your lash line and lift bringing your lashes up towards your eyebrows and hold. This allows for your mascara to set and lifts your lashes. Repeat on your other eye.

photo  from Clinique.com

Sunday Supper Summer Send Off - Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos

With summer fleeting and fall beginning, fish tacos celebrate both seasons with fresh tomato salsa and creamy cabbage slaw. The tomatoes are perfectly ripe and the cabbage is just coming into season making a perfect pair for today's recipe.

After college, I relocated to the southern coast of California were I was introduced to the fish taco phenomenon. It was by far one of the most tantalizing experiences for my little taste buds. Growing up in the Midwest, I only heard of fish tacos from an article in a Martha Stewart Magazine; they seemed foreign to me. Who would put fish were beef should go?

It was then that I was introduced to a little place in Ocean Beach, CA called South Beach Bar & Grille. People come from all over the country to experience an ocean side view with a local brew in one hand and a fish taco in the other. South Beach has been featured on Food Network's top restaurants and voted best fish tacos by San Diego Magazine. It has remained a staple in our lives since. Living in Hawaii and having access to the freshest Mahi, it was only fair that we would try to duplicate this favorite. This is our version of a delicious grilled Mahi Mahi taco.



What you will need
fresh corn tortillas
beefsteak tomatoes
cilantro
red onion
jalapeno
1 small garlic clove minced
kosher salt / freshly cracked black pepper
approx. 1/4 lb mahi per person
red or green cabbage ( I like both for color)
carrots
Hidden Valley Ranch Ranch packet

What to do
Make your salsa a couple hours ahead of time. Dice your tomatoes, red onion and jalapeno to taste. Chop cilantro removing stems. Combine all into a bowl and stir in the minced garlic clove. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Fire up the coals in your Weber to a medium high heat.

SUGAR TIP*** The key to grilling fish is to prepare your grill so that your fish doesn't stick and fall apart or worse, into the grill. To do this, simply clean the grill with your grill brush while the grill is hot removing any char on the grate. Brush vegetable oil on the grate and cover with a pizza pan. What, you say? A pizza pan? Yes, because your Weber is round and the pizza pan fits nicely. You can use a cookie sheet if you are using a rectangular gas grill. Place the pan face down over the grate and allow for the heat to collect for at least 20 minutes while you are preparing your slaw. NOTE! The pan will be blazing hot so use a thick hot pad when removing.

Next, mix up your ranch packet according to the directions and refrigerate. Begin preparing your cabbage slaw by thinly slicing your cabbages and slivering your carrots. Add to a large enough bowl that makes it easy to toss / combine. Remove about a 1/4 cup of the ranch mix and start to thin out the mixture with milk. You will want it to have the consistency of buttermilk or a thinned out half & half.  Add the mixture to your cabbage tossing to cover thoroughly. Make a second batch of the thinned out ranch mixture to drizzle on the top of the tacos before serving.

Rinse your Mahi Mahi fillets and pat dry with a paper towel. Salt and pepper both sides of the fish and let rest for a few minutes. Brush liberally with olive oil. After carefully removing the pan from the grate, place the fish on the grill and allow for it to cook for 3 minutes on each side. Carefully remove from grill and allow to rest on a cutting board for 2 -3 minutes. Slice fish into 1/2" pieces and place on corn tortillas. Top with cabbage slaw, salsa and drizzle with the ranch sauce and serve with beans and rice. Delish.

Fashion Friday with Cyn! Pick of the Week: Get the Look - Wellies

Our little fashionista is sick today so I am stepping up and taking on Fashion Friday!! I recently received my fall shipment of fun new looks and I can't wait to share my pick with you!

Fall has finally started to make it's way into the Bay Area. Unlike the Midwest winters I had experienced growing up, the winters here are mild and rainy. Like many people in the Bay, I commute to work via public transportation. My commute is a short walk from my apartment to my job and often times it's raining when I leave.

This season I finally invested in some WELLIES!! After splashing my way through puddles on my way to work, I have given up on being cold and damp. Now you may think that wellies are not something that seems very practical if you don't get a lot of rain in your region; however, they can be used for numerous other occasions and are always great to have at a moments notice.

I live in an affluent community surrounded by people with money to burn so I see the latte sipping, stay-at-home Mom's cruising the streets in their Mommy support groups on a sunny day with their designer wellies pushing designer strollers holding scads of new purchases. Do you need to wear $400 rain boots on a sunny day? Now, my thoughts on that are an entirely different page....the point is you don't need a designer wellie to be cute.

HUNTER collaborated with Jimmy Choo croc wellie to design some stellar fashion forward wellies that retail for $395. The boots on the right are HUNTER original tall boots that retail for $125.



I found a pair that will get you the look less than a quarter of the price! The Zetta wellies on the left are a similar look with a slightly smaller heel, same buckle look and great non-slip tread. These retail for $24.99. That's $100 savings!

My wellies are so fitting for my style but there are many other options that you can choose from to match your own personal style. It will get you the look without the designer price tag. SUGAR TIP***I always suggest that you buy the liners or socks that are sold with wellies. It prevents you from smelling like rubber boots all day.

Wellies are fun if you are splashing around in the rain or walking through your vineyard but are they really that practical for work? Walking in with wet shoes is definitely not practical and wellies are a trend so it wouldn't necessarily be viewed as a negative thing but if you are concerned that your look would not fit your professional attire, I have found you the perfect rain boot. It is truly my favorite but it is more expensive than the original HUNTER boots above.

The INTERLAKEN from HUNTER. These are a thing of beauty...they are sleek, sexy and slimming. They retail for $195. You can choose a heel height of 40mm or 80mm and the material is vulcanized natural rubber. This would fit any business formal wardrobe.


I am off to enjoy this beautiful Fashion Friday! Enjoy! Cyn

Update Your Outerwear Image With These Fall Jackets that Flatter!

Let's face it. I am not rich. I want to be fashion forward but can't spend a ton of money on my look. I am an average girl with an average paycheck with an above average love for fashion.

I searched the market high and low and found some really great jackets and even better prices. Every look below is under $100, very versatile and can be worn for work, play or a night out on the town. Every fashionista needs a few hot looks for fall's chilly weather. Here are a few of my favorite picks that flatter.


Tulle Moonstone Military Jacket

I love this Tulle jacket from LuLu's. It's tailored well throughout the shoulders and slimming in the waist. I love the bold buttons, soft gray color and the details on the wrists and pockets. It is also right in line with this season's military look it is sure to turn heads! $73

BB Dakota Belted Black CoatI always have a hard time finding a longer trench style jacket that is flattering to my figure. The problem is that the front always looks fitted but the back side makes me look wide in the waist or square in the rear. This jacket from BBDakota is perfect to flatter from the front and the back. The bow tie at the front cinches perfectly at the waist giving the structured material flow. The collar can be left open like in the photo or buttoned up giving the neck a long slim look. $73


I have never been a real fan of JCPenny but had to see what all of the fuss was about when People Magazine's Style Watch must have list started featuring them. They have been trying to reposition their brand for a few years now and I think they finally did it. It's the first time ever that I felt that their styles were fit for a younger than 70 age group. They also offer special sizing (petite, tall) which is especially great.

Tiered Faux Ruffle Jacket
They got my vote for faux leather looks. a.n.a. brand has this tiered ruffled faux leather jacket .
I like that the waist is longer waistline giving the illusion of a longer, leaner torso. It also defines the waistline and pronounces the shoulders creating a V look from shoulder to waist. On sale for only $39.99.

Typically I would say that I am too old for dELIAs...but these are so cute and made from Thinsulate. Both of my choices are part of this season's military trend.



Kendall Belted Coat
This belted beauty reminded me of Kim! It isn't available until mid-December so pre-order it so you avoid the possible back order through spring. The belt is a great way to flatter or create a waistline. I also really like the pockets across the breast. The detail on the end of the sleeves defines the wrists. $69.50




Devin Peacoat
This is my favorite choice of the day. It is sharp, well structured and well fitted throughout the arms. It is made with Thinsulate for chillllllyy winter days. It has antique brass metal buttons on the front  as well as on the shoulders and wrists. $69.50


They are also offering 20% off outerwear and FREE SHIPPING!! How can you not love that??
20% off All dELiA*s Outerwear + Free Shipping! Code AFS25D

Social Network Stranger Danger: Tips To Protect Yourself and Your Family

Is your social network disclosing too much about you and putting you in danger? Are you telling people where you are and what you are doing? Last night was a reminder that everyone is watching and listening so be choosy with what you say and more so post. STRANGER DANGER. Here's my story...

I love being a social network butterfly. I love hearing about what my "friends" are doing and the latest haps in their lives. Seeing pictures of them and their kids as they grow which is nice because I can't be there to actually see them grow. I feel connected. The daily posts are constant reminders that we are loved and not alone which has been putting upwards of five billion smiles on faces across the globe. I put friends in quotation marks because not all of them are people that I am close to. Some of them, I must admit, I don't even remember but know that I went to high school with because of our friends in common.

Last night, I was out with a friend for some delicious food and wine. We got the last two seats in the house at the bar and enjoyed hours of conversation and laughs. Toward the end of the night, a couple of single old dudes struck up some lame conversation in an attempt to add to their less than exciting lives.  We entertained them for about 2 minutes before heading out the door because there was one comment in particular that stopped me dead in my tracks. The man said, "I knew it was your first time here because you asked where the restroom was".

What?! This may sound harmless and obvious but this is why it is not as harmless as it may seem.

A) He was five seats away from us in a rather loud dining scene. Either I was screaming it or he had been watching and listening for far more time than I care to think about. B) The bartender wanted to give us a glass of wine on the house and asked if we were driving. Of course I did not hesitate to answer him AND continue to say that I was taking public transportation home. Are you kidding me? Am I a complete moron? What was I thinking?! Idiot.

So, at this point, without realizing who was watching and listening, I had disclosed that I am new to the restaurant and possibly unfamiliar with the neighborhood just by asking where the restroom was. I had also disclosed that I was walking to take the public transportation home. 

I felt comfortable in the restaurant, I was with a friend, with a responsible bartender who wanted to increase his tip by giving us a glass of wine on the house. Seems about right. STRANGER DANGER.

The same goes for your social network of choice. It seems comfortable because those who surround you are your "friends", it seems responsible because you have set up your security settings so that only your "friends" can see your posts and photos.

Well wake up Jack. Everyone in your network is a potential threat. Similar to the scene last night, everyone is a potential threat, watching and listening to what you you say and do. Use your head and be aware of everything that you post. Here are a few things to think about:

• Never post where you are going. You never know who could be waiting for you to leave your house and rob you or wait for you at your destination and snatch you. 
• Protect your photos by setting your security to only those you know well and trust. Not just your "friends". 
• Tell your kids. When you are in their network, you can't see what strangers see. Find a trusted friend who is not in their network and use their log in to see what any stranger would have access to. Then have them log in and set up their security settings yourself.

Meet The Designer! Laura Collins: Creator of Pansy Maiden

Being a panelist for the SFFAMA's Fashion Mash-up, has given me the opportunity to meet numerous designers and talent. This week I had the pleasure of speaking with Laura Collins, creator of Pansy Maiden, a handmade vegan bag company based out of Boston.

I think Laura and I are somehow connected. For those of you who know me well, know that I am very close with both of my Grandmothers. When I found out that Laura named her company, Pansy Maiden, after her grandmother, Pansy Pauline Maiden, I was especially touched. When I found out that her grandmother "could play a mean harmonica", I got out mine and attempted to play a tune.

Laura names all of her bags after inspirational songs written by women who's titles and lyrics push boundaries like her Grandmother did. She designs bags for women and girls with every imaginable style including messenger bags, clutches, shoulder bags, totes, and even diaper bags. The materials that she uses is organic, reclaimed or vintage and her glue is an animal derivative free brand.

In addition to being an absolute delight to speak with, she has been covered by numerous companies raving about her business philosophy, sustainability and functional designs. She s a writer for her blog, All Things Connect: One girl sewing connections one bag at a time and was recently nominated as October's Exceptional Herbivore by Vegan Mainstream. I invite you to meet the class act behind Pansy Maiden.

What inspired your line? Have you always designed cruelty-free pieces/products?

I make bags that I would carry. When I was shopping for a new bag a few years ago, I found that so many of the styles featured trendy buckles, do-dads, studs, gaudy snaps, chains, and general hardware “craziness.” That’s just not my style. I like a more minimal, utilitarian look to carry from season to season. I figured there had to be more women like me who were seeking a more classic, everyday look. So, I went to designing!

When I first started Pansy Maiden, I wasn’t a vegan but I had been a vegetarian for almost 9 years. I was definitely not going to use leather or wool to build my bags but I wasn’t necessarily thinking about what sort of fabric glue or fabric detergent I was using. After transitioning from vegetarian to vegan this past year, I went the distance and began using a vegan fabric glue as well as a plant-based fabric detergent. As of October of 2009, just seven months after debuting, Pansy Maiden is 100% vegan!

Why did you choose to participate in the SF Vegan Fashion Show? What message are you hoping to share?

Pansy Maiden is still a very young company so I thought this fashion show would be a prime opportunity to introduce my line of eco-friendly, vegan bags to a wider audience; a coming out party of sorts ;) And to share the stage with amazing vegan brands like Reco Jeans, Lion’s Share Industries, Vaute Couture, Melie Bianco, Cri de Coeur, and Mission Savvy…what a grand opportunity!

One of the goals of this fashion event was to prove that cruelty-free fashion can be more than just hemp, polyester, and plastic. I believe that this show definitely proved that point, and hopefully, audience members will take that knowledge and run with it. There is no longer a reason for vegans to "settle" for blase fashion that just "happens to be" vegan. There are many up-and-coming vegan designers out there making it easy to be both fashionable AND vegan!

What is your take on Vegan Fashion today and the future of eco-friendly designs?

As a new vegan, the most surprising thing to me is how frustrating and time consuming it can be to find cruelty-free clothing and accessories. I might find a dress I like but then I read that it has a silk lining or, I might find a coat but it’s so cheap and poorly manufactured that it falls apart before the winter is over. So frustrating! It’s really exciting that there are a number of up-and-coming, high-quality, strictly-vegan labels making the scene. And with so many amazing vegan fashion blogs popping up, these cruelty-free labels are getting easier and easier to find.

I am always happy when I hear about or see a news piece featuring a green, vegan company, especially in a market outside of the vegan community, because it's a big win for us all. The more publicity we can drum up, the more notice the fashion industry has to give us. If we can show that green, vegan businesses are viable and can garner the attention of a wide audience, then more and more mainstream industry people will have no choice but to examine their own methods and employ kinder, more socially responsible methods.

Are you a Vegan?

Yes I am! I have been a vegan for one year now and a vegetarian nine years before that.

What other green practices do you participate in everyday?

I consider myself to be on a “path to sustainability.” It can be a real struggle (thinking in terms of both money and convenience) to live life in the manner I know I should, a manner that’s best for our environment. I try to keep getting better and better every day. Here are a few things I have been really consistent with:

Saving all my fabric scraps and donating them to local arts programs

Using my bike, public trans, or hybrid Zipcars as a means to get around Boston

Recycling whatever I can whenever I can—If I’m out and about, I’ve been know to carry a glass bottle around for hours until I find a recycle bin.

Using eco-friendly (sometimes homemade) cleaning supplies

Buying organic whenever I can

Shop local whenever I can

What other organizations are you a part of or support?

I am a proud member of Boston Handmade, a gathering of Boston-area colleagues who support one another in the pursuit of creativity made by hand.

I have supported and will continue to support organizations that aim to make the world a better, kinder place. Here are a few examples:

www.kiva.org

www.farmsactuary.com

http://communityfarms.org

Sunday Supper: Grilled Artichokes and Reference Guide for Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables

It always hard to say goodbye to our summer favorites but you are going to fall in love with the flavors of fall. There are so many wonderful recipes coming up I can hardly wait! The secret to a great tasting meal is choosing seasonal, locally grown, organic ingredients at your local market. I headed to my farmer's market early this morning and have compiled a list of seasonal fruits and vegetables for you to use as a reference all season long. 

NORCAL experienced a very late summer and temperatures are just beginning to cool. As a result, I am still finding summer treats as the season slowly cools. There were still some strawberries, peaches, raspberries, tomatoes, eggplant and sweet peppers.

Taste Test
Of course I sampled the fare. How can you choose without tasting it? The grapes are unbelievable right now. Green and purple grapes were on every farmer's table. Close your eyes for a moment and imagine as the skin splitting between your teeth, bursting open with sweet juice dancing on your tongue as your mouth waters for more. Mmmm...delicious. Go out and get some grapes today!

I also tried a Pluot. A Pluot is a plum and apricot hybrid. It looks similar to a plum but is bigger in size and not as dark. It was sweet, juicy and would make a ridiculously great tart. Look for it at your local market and ask for a taste.

The most noted sight of the day was the brussel sprout stalks in the picture by the Late Fall - Winter list below.  I have never seen brussel sprouts on the stalk and this farmer was selling the stalks for $5 each. It seemed like a great idea until I considered carrying it around... with a princess coach pumpkin. I passed.

daikon radish and okra

End of Summer - Early Fall

•  Peppers
• Figs
• Carrots
• Pomegranate
• Grapes
• Celery
• Onions
• Fennel
• Mushrooms
• Squash
• Pumpkin
• Plums
• Pluots
• Apples
• Pears
• Jerusalem artichokes: We made some amazing artichokes and citrus aioli. The recipe is below.  
•  Sweet potatoes
• Okra
• Daikon Radish
• Radicchio 

There were heirloom squashes of all shapes and sizes sprinkled throughout the market. Each were fairytale like and reminded me of Cinderella's coach. The one I took home for my tablescape is just that. If it had a horse and a set of wheels, I would have a glass slipper.

The farmer told me to keep it on my table until the bottom becomes slightly soft and then bake it in the oven. Three of my favorite fall treats are pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin pie and pumpkin soup.

You can also make a really delicious pumpkin curry served over rice on a cool autumn afternoon. The aroma of curry and coconut infuse the room while the pumpkin curry fills your belly.

Late Fall -Winter 

• Persimmons
• Rutabagas
• Kale
• Cranberries
• Lemon
• Brussel Sprouts
• Cabbage
• Leeks
• Parsnips
• Quince
• Bok choy

Now, for today's recipe...It is seasonal, fresh and seriously delicious. You can make these for an appetizer, side dish or a main entree. Enjoy!

Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Aioli

Fire up your Weber and get it nice and hot. Meanwhile, start a big pot of water on the stove.

What you will need
Artichokes 1-2 per person
Sea Salt / Freshly cracked black pepper
3-6 fresh garlic cloves
a little less than 1/4 c. of good quality olive oil
1/2 t. Dijon mustard
2 lemons for juice
1 organic egg yolk   

PLEASE NOTE: Yes, you must use organic eggs. There is no compromising here or you run the risk of getting seriously ill. Be smart about consuming raw eggs. You can substitute mayonnaise here if you get wigged out. I would only recommend Hellman's / Best Foods.

What to do
Now that your water is boiling, add two cloves of minced garlic, 2 cracks of sea salt and black pepper to the water and place your artichokes in the pot. Cover and let boil for 30 minutes or so. Meanwhile, begin making your aioli by mixing together your yolk, 2 t. of your lemon juice and mustard in a bowl. Slowly whisk in your olive oil a little at a time making sure each bit is well incorporated before adding more. Whisk this really well. Finally whisk in your minced garlic and season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

After you have boiled your artichokes, remove from the water and place on a cutting board. This will be tricky cutting these in half AND getting them on the grill without falling apart so get your game face on. Sprinkle with a little olive oil and transfer to the grill to get a nice sear on them. It should take about 5-10 minutes or so. Plate, crack some sea salt and pepper, serve immediately with your aioli.


All of the photos are mine today. If you decide to use them give me props.

Three Image Rules to Create Balance and Shape

It is critical that you dress yourself correctly in order to flatter your shape. Properly fitted clothing will give you the appearance of being taller, leaner and of course being well coordinated. To ensure that you are putting your best look forward, it is important that you work with your body type instead of against it. 

Yesterday I had posted a few looks on Facebook for Fashion Friday and had a little memo on one of them about why the style I chose was critical with the look. I will use the pieces from yesterday in this first example. The "Smarty Pants", on the right, have a puffy or ballooned section at the top of the pant and a fitting leg. It would be really easy to make yourself look heavier than you are if this style is not executed properly.

 RULE ONE: Create illusion of an hour glass by balancing your pieces.
Imagine an hour glass. Top and bottom are proportionate with the center being smaller. By pairing this style pant with a short cut, fitted jacket, like this one on the left, you create curve and the illusion of the hour glass figure because of the waist definition in the jacket. The shoulders create upper definintion and the bottoms have a ballooned top. Because these pants come up higher on the waist, a jacket with shorter length is ideal. A critical error would be choosing a jacket that is 3-4 inches longer in length. Why? Because it will cut at the widest point of most of your bodies and it is at the center of the balloon eliminating your waistline making you look like a box.

Today, I am going to show you a perfect example of how ill-fitted pants can make you look worse rather than better. ***Don't judge the pictures and more so don't judge me. Remember, this is all in the name of blogging for you.

RULE TWO: Buy clothes that fit you.
When clothes fit right you feel better and will always look better. The pants below on the left are the new pants that are too big. Yes, they stay up and yes, to the untrained eye these could work. However, if they were they correct size, they would be even better. The pants below on the right are fitted but not a good fit for my body type. Nothing is worse than seeing someone who has a great shape hide it with pants that are too big. I really like the pants on the left and think they would be the better fit IF they were the right size.

Where do I begin? Both of these pants are disastrous in their own right so I will cover the pros and cons of both with the main focus being buy clothes that fit you properly. Don't buy them too small OR too big.
The pants on the left have a better waistline because they are higher up on my hip bones. This creates curve as you can see. The pic on the right looks square.

Here you can see that the definition of the butt is lost on the left but see how they give the illusion that I am taller and have longer legs. The higher waist line is more clearly more flattering for my body type. The wide band on the right accentuates my widest area which is a no-no. You can see that illustrated above best.

 Loosey goosey booty on the left. You can tell where there is access material making me look saggy and wide. You can literally grip the access fabric with your hand there is so much. Not the case on the right. As you can see, there is more thigh and knee definition (yes, I am working on the saddlebags-don't judge) I think the pants on the left would hide those better with a smaller size.

RULE THREE: Forget about the numbers. 
Try on every size until you find the perfect fir for you. Don't get caught up in the numbers game. It's a fit game. Get the right fit.

There you have it. Buy clothes that fit you and have a great day. -Cyn