Are You Jellish? The Life Cycle of Gel Nail Polish

I love a beautiful manicure but they never lasted past the first two days without chipping. My polish job at home never stood up to the job at the salon and the maintenance was brutal. I have my hands in water all of the time at work and in my dated little apartment, I AM the dishwasher. I found that I would make the time nor take the time to keep my nails polished. I have never been one for fake nails so when I heard about gel nail polish, I almost did back flips out of my chair.

I had a client come in with beautifully polished nails and I made a comment about how pretty they looked and that she must have just had them done across the street. To my surprise, she replied "No, these are from last week."

 Last week?

What?! How could that be? They were perfectly manicured and as shiny as the first day of a fresh manicure. really? Are you sure? Yes, she was sure. It is gel nail polish that is applied in layers using a UV light to dry in between coats. It lasts 7-10 business days and is removed by soaking it with acetone. You may have seen advertisements for various brands of gel nail polish at your local salon as there are quite a few brands on the market now. The cost is a bit higher than a regular manicure and it takes longer to remove. 

Knowing me, I wanted to do a little more research before hand to find out more about it. Finally, I made the commitment last week and was completely surprised at the results. Most of you know that we cook big meals on Sunday and often times there are a lot of dishes that go with that. Last Sunday, I did five loads of dishes throughout the day and my nails remained flawless. I banged them on a keyboard all week, knocked into things, I even accidentally microplaned my nail while grading cheese and still, they remained shiny and new looking. I was astonished.

I took some pictures to show you the life of the gel polish manicure and in my opinion, I think that it looks best for about seven days. It begins to look a bit duller and starts to grow out at that point. I have had mine on for eleven days and am ready to have it removed.

After seeking the perfect manicure for the past 15 years, I have finally found a product that I really like. I am not sure that I will try the Jellish by Glamour Queen brand again as I can't confirm if it is a trusted non-toxic company; I will however, seek out OPI's Axxium gel polish to try that next. This works with my lifestyle instead of against it. What a relief! The photos below are not as perfect as I would like. I took them one handed with my iPhone and had a hard time focusing the camera with my one finger!

Day three after hand washing five loads of dishes in very hot water. No chips and still shiny!

Day 5: Still glossy small chip on the very tip of my middle nail where I microplaned my nail on accident. Hardly noticeable and completely my fault. You can see that the edges are still in tact and gloss is still high.

Day 10: Grown out, slightly dull, edges are beginning to become inconsistent and uneven looking. You can see it better in this next picture. Not bad for DAY 10!

Related Links
My New Obsession: Chic Prints by OPI for Sephora
Toxic Nail Polish: Be Aware!
Most Wanted Nail Polish List: What's Your Favorite City?
First Impressions: Dress For Success When Interviewing

Happy Memorial Day Weekend From Sugar Lips Lifestyle Tips

We have collectively decided to take the weekend off. We wish you a safe and happy holiday weekend and will return on Tuesday!

See you soon,
Cyn and Kimberlee

Barneys New York Spectacular Spectator Tote: Fashion Friday with Cyn

For those of you who know me well, you know that Barney's holds a very special place in my heart. When I was in college, I had a vision for something greater. I knew that the world was far bigger and grander than where I stood and I wanted a piece of the action. I had this inner desire to find my avenue into the fashion world even if it took some risk. I remember this day vividly because it was that moment when I realized it was possible. I was in a local mall browsing through a book store where I happened to come across Confessions Of A Window Dresser By Simon Doonan. 

Simon Doonan is the man who made Barney's windows famous. He started out as a nobody who became somebody by following his inner vision ultimately becoming an American icon. He often chose graphic, controversial content to adorn his window displays to draw attention and start a buzz. The buzz led to fame and there I was standing in the middle of the bookstore with his book in my hand and faith in my heart that one day, I too would start a buzz that led to something grand.

Two days later, I received the book as a gift from a very close friend who wrote "Here's to unlocking your dreams!" To this day, I continue to unlock my dreams one at a time. Today's pick is a wish list accessory yet to be had but worth sharing as some day, I will receive this dream too. I encourage you to go to the website for the full effect of this gorgeous bag. The photo above does not do it justice. Happy Fashion Friday everyone!

Sugar Kisses,
Cyn

Celebrate With Us June 25th: "Who We Love Event" 2011 and Summer Runway Show

 Madison, WI – Sugar Lips Lifestyle Tips in conjunction with Hesperidian Productions presents a Beauty and Fashion Expo and Summer Runway Show taking place at Tempo Ballroom and Latin Dance Studio on Saturday, June 25^th from 4-10pm. Tickets for this event are $15.00 in advance, or $25.00 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased here through Zahava Designs. Tickets are non-refundable. Fashionable attire required. Children under the age of 16 will not be admitted.

• Socialize and Network with independent designers, stylists, models, retailers and more. 
• Ballroom Dance Performance and Beginner Instruction sponsored by Tempo Ballroom & Latin Dance Studio 
• Complimentary Beauty Bar sponsored by Aniu 
• Fashionable Trunk Shows and Exclusive Shopping Opportunities

$5 of each ticket and all additional sales for entry to the summer makeover prize drawing will be donated to Gio’s Garden.

Entry to Prize Drawing for Head to Toe Summer Makeover Giveaways sponsored by:
Avant Garde Salon
Hello Gorgeous Salon
Zahava Designs
Sugar Sugar Shoes
Effie’s Heart
Heliotrope 
Zansus Purses  
Dustin Maher Fitness
Tempo Ballroom & Latin Dance Studio

I Met My Idol...Rachel Roy. Kimberlee's Interview With Rachel Roy in Chicago

In the fashion industry, there are hundreds of designers with brilliant ideas and collections that surprise and amaze me on every level.  There are, however, only a select few that leave me enamored with their work as well as their personality.  And even fewer that leave their haunting mark on my mind, paralyzing me with awe.  My iconic inspiration, exceeding all of my capacity for adoration, is the timelessly stunning Miss Rachel Roy. 

A fan of her name on every level; an award winning fashion designer having worked her way up to celebrity status through the ranks of retail beginning in her early teens, a Mother of two beautiful and busy little girls, a female entrepreneur able to find peace and balance in her home life as well as her fashion immersed lifestyle, I cannot even begin to find words to describe how much I relate to Rachel’s story and how truly inspirational she is straight down to my soul.

On Wednesday, Jacyn and friends were graced with the opportunity to visit her and speak with her at an event in San Francisco, and I wished will all of my soul that I could have been there with them in that moment.  

What would I have asked her?  What would she say?  Would she be as amazing and brilliant as I imagine her to be?  On Thursday when asked in a random poll who I would meet in the fashion industry given the opportunity, I answered “Rachel Roy.”  On Friday, I realized that either irony or destiny was on my side, as she announced via Facebook that her next stop to unveil her Spring 2011 lineup would be at Macy’s in Chicago, IL.  A two and a half hour car ride from my home, and home to family and friends.  Shut it down people, shut it down.  Husband and four year old in tow, we hit the road Saturday morning and arrived at the event with my dear friend and daughter prepared for anything.

Rachel’s jewelry collection was the first stop, piece after piece of stunning creations of rock star stones, feathers, and a treasure chest of gold.  I chose a colorful feather ring that spans across two fingers and could not be more unique or well stated.  My friend selected a large statement necklace of clustered golden medallions sprinkled with brilliantly colored accents of a reddish orange coral.  And thank you, CJ, for purchasing my ring for me, you have no idea what this means to me. 

Her runway presentation was next, featuring color and style that is signature Rachel.  Taking note of the drape, the bold and brilliant hues, and the footwear she used to style each look, the show was simply stunning.

As the crowd began to thicken, I quickly jumped in line hoping to be close enough to the front of it that I might actually speak with Rachel.  The line was long, but I remained hopeful and found myself drawn to the energy of a fellow Rachel fan behind me.  Our conversation was amazing, and I hope to cross paths with Miss Michaela and her music at some point in the near future. 

And then, just like that, it was my turn.

Walking up to meet Rachel, the first words from her mouth were, “I love your dress!”  Seriously.  I wore my Jovovich Hawk piece from the Go International Target collection, and Rachel Roy just told me she loved it.  Gushing to her about this being my “Michael Jackson moment” she was so natural and genuine that it almost seemed like a ridiculous comparison to her…and yet, it is so true to me.  As my son had become sleepy and needed to have the attention of both myself and my husband, Rachel smiled and comforted my embarrassment by sharing how she too is a Mom and not to worry a bit.  In fact, her assistant spoke with empathy to my husband as he held my sleepy little boy waiting for his mommy.  My first question to Rachel? 

How do you hold down this amazing career and balance this with your children?

Her response was that she has learned over time to treat each day as a new start.  Some days will be great, and some will be hard, but begin again when the next day begins.  Allow yourself time, 15 or 30 minutes each morning, to just unwind with something that makes you laugh or prayer to lift your soul.  Take your kids with you to work once in a while, let them see what you do, let them cling to you and embarrass you with their complete disregard for business etiquette.   When you leave the earth, you will leave them knowing you have taught them how to work hard and take care of themselves without your hand to hold.  It is not easy, but it is possible and amazing.

As she was answering this question for me, my son had come up to my side and wanted me to hold him.  Right there, in my moment, with my icon.  And so I did.  She touched his hair and offered him anything she had on her table…he looked at her like she was crazy.  Oh Javon, someday you will appreciate this story.  Once he was calmed, I was able to hand her my card and explain who I am, and what I do.  She enthusiastically supported my ambition and drive, being a woman working toward a dream.  This led to my next question:

What decisions, important decisions, have you made in your career that you feel were imperative to lifting you to the heights you are now?

Her answer?  Stick to your convictions.  Stand behind what you believe in, regardless of what the trends tell you.  If you believe in a mini skirt and maxi’s are on everyone’s body, do not change your view.  Individuality is key and crucial to moving forward and getting further.  Believe in yourself and promote yourself in every way possible.  She loved that my business cards had my picture on them, and a QR code that leads you to a profile page about me and links to where you can find some of my work.  This, she said, is perfect. 

Rachel asked me questions, took my business card, and even told me that she would look out for my work and if there was anything that she could do to help me, she would.  She was amazing, and genuine, and patted my sad faced son on the head with a smile.  She allowed me pictures, a hug, and an autograph.  And the icing on the cake was that of her vast new collection of jewelry on display, the pieces she herself had chosen to wear were the very ring I had purchased prior to seeing her and the necklace my friend CJ had purchased.  Irony or destiny? 

Whatever universe, I just met my idol, and my lifetime has been made.  What an amazing woman, designer, and human being. 

Love.

Xoxo,

Kimberlee

Sunday Supper: Seared Thyme Lamb Shanks with Mint Gremolata, Pine Nut Couscous and Spring Cucumber Salad

Today's dish is a taste of the Mediterranean using classic ingredients such as fresh garlic, olive oil, and nuts. We did a spin on a traditional gremolata by using mint and a touch of verjus. This dish can easily be prepared in 15 minutes-20 minutes and requires very little clean up. It is perfect for a summer barbecue as well. The lamb shanks can be tossed on the grill and served family style in the center of the table.

Some people are partial to lamb because of it's gamy flavor. As the fat is rendered longer, you tend to taste more of that flavor. If it is prepared properly with a medium rare temp, you will not have an overly gamy dish. 

What You Need
2-3 lamb shanks per person
fresh thyme (one sprig per shank)
6 sprigs of fresh mint leaves (stems removed)
1 lemon with zest
2 garlic cloves
1/4 t. dijon mustard
1 T. verjus (optional- substitute juice of 1/2 lemon.)
salt & black pepper
olive oil
paprika
couscous (1 c. dry equals a little over 2 c. cooked)
1/4 c. pine nuts
2 small zucchinis
1-2 cucumbers
1 spring onion
2 T. mayonnaise
2-3 T. water

***SUGAR TIP: To make it easier, you can buy couscous with pine nuts already in it or you can add your own. If you have a traditional couscous vs. instant, it will take longer to prepare so keep that in mind when beginning this dish. You can use stock or water to prepare.

What To Do
On a large baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and arrange lamb shanks with even space between them across the sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and lightly sprinkle with salt, pepper and paprika. Place one sprig of thyme on each shank and gently massage the seasonings including the thyme into the meat and allow to rest while preparing the remainder of the meal.

Mint Gremolata
Remove the stems from your six mint sprigs and slice mint leaves add to a bowl. Mince 2 garlic cloves and add 2 T. olive oil, then combine the above amounts of verjus, dijon, and lemon juice. If you do not have verjus, use the juice of a whole lemon instead of a half. Zest the lemon and add to the mint leaves and garlic. Combine all ingredients using your fork to gently press the mint leaves into the bottom of the bowl. Set aside.

Cucumber Salad
This can be done the day before for better results. Thinly slice a whole cucumber and place in a glass bowl. Sliver your spring onion into paper thin slices and place in bowl as well. In a mixing dish, add equal parts of mayonnaise and water which should be approximately 2 T. each.  Use about a teaspoon of the juice from the mint gremolata to add a touch of bright flavor to your salad. Whisk together well and pour on top of the cucumbers and onions making sure that the onions are fully covered. You will want approximately 1/4 of the bowl to have the dressing in it to ensure proper marinade. Cover and place in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Slice your zucchini into long slices and place in a small saute pan over low heat. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Allow to saute slowly while preparing the remainder of the dish stirring occasionally. 

Prepare your couscous by adding  1 t. of butter into a small pot over medium heat. Allow butter to melt and add couscous stirring to coat. Add water to stir, and cover. Reduce heat to simmer and do not open until the moisture is absorbed. Fluff with a fork to separate.

While your couscous is cooking, you can sear your lamb shanks. In a large skillet over medium- high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the shanks to the pan evenly and sear evenly on each side. These only take about 3-4 minutes per side.

Plate each dish and serve immediately. Pair with a nice syrah and enjoy!!

When I Was a Little Girl...Kimberlee's Pick of the Week- Sugar Sugar Shoes

When I was a little girl, I can vividly recall that my most favorite treat on the entire planet came to me in the form of long strips of snow white paper covered completely in evenly spaced rows of brilliantly colored drops of sugary bliss. With exception only to the rich decadence of milk chocolate, I could have imagined nothing more perfectly delicious than the feeling that would come from just seeing these confections waiting for me as I headed toward them, fistfuls of change in hand, at the front counter of the ice cream shop. The memory is one I still savor today.

Recreating a childhood memory for me in her decadent variation of Candy Land, with just a hint of sexy, I had the good fortune of being introduced to CJ, the owner of Sugar Sugar Shoes. Based in the heart of the Midwest, a former television broadcaster turned full time mommy and playmate to a beautiful little girl, CJ’s true Chicago style combined with her passion for covetable footwear has driven her straight into the arms of a fresh new business venture. The winds of change blew her direction in 2011and while she could smell playful notes of pure milk chocolate in the air…all she could see were red hot stilettos. Creating a reality from the passion that filled her heart and sole, Sugar Sugar Shoes was founded on the idea that beautiful footwear is as much an indulgent treat as a trip to the front counter at the candy shop. The selection is breathtakingly colorful, extremely inviting and each style looks slightly more delicious than the last. Brilliant hues, sky high wedges and platforms galore…shoes are priced at $29.00 per pair, shipping and tax included. The quality of each shoe is held to a high standard, the customer service is wonderful, and the Sugar Sugar Shoes shopping experience is nothing short of highly addictive.


Not being one for a flat shoe (I’m 5’2”, I’m close enough to the ground as it is), I just could not help myself when I caught a glimpse of this feathery piece of flat shoe heaven…Delta is her name, and rocking my footwear world is her game. When I saw this style, I just had to have it in my possession…flat or not. The sandal is designed with a high, zipper back heel for ease in closure, a metallic thong design and multi patterned ankle straps. But the kicker is this attention grabbing centerpiece laying across the front of my foot…soft black tassels, faux leaves, a faux leather bow, a sparkly crystal and a peacock feather. Oh my shoe loving goodness, these are Ahhhhhhmazing! I’ve worn them 4 times in one week, and that speaks volumes given the depths of my shoe collection. Flat, comfortable AND gorgeous? This is one little bon bon that will be thoroughly enjoyed over and over and over again.

Because I am not one for practicing self control with sweet indulgences for either my tummy or my toes, I also grabbed a pair of stiletto heels in a creamy shade of bone accented with a cocoa faux suede platform and woven strap that crosses the foot to join with a gold buckle at the ankle. Tall, unique, and every bit the confectionery masterpiece I hoped for. The fit is comfortable, slightly larger than I probably needed…but I always opt for a larger fit if there is an option between that and being too snug. A Dr. Scholl’s insert later, and the fit could not be more tailored for my size. Delicious!

I may not find myself at the counter of the candy shop as often as I’d like as I’ve grown into an adult, but thank you to Sugar Sugar Shoes for bringing me back to the feeling of sheer delight at the very thought of the heaven my selections will bring to me.

Fashion Friday with Cyn: Meet and Greet With Rachel Roy at Macy's in San Francisco

RACHEL ROY IN REAL LIFE!!!!!
Ok, I am back.

What an amazing honor to see this wonderful role model in action. Macy's Union Square hosted "Dance into Spring" showcasing Rachel Roy's spring collection. She looks absolutely stunning in person and beams with positive energy. I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to attend!

Many of you already know that I admire Rachel Roy for her designs but it is so much more than that. It's her poise, determination and goodwill that make me a true fan. She is genuine and true. 

I was fortunate to have met up with Designer Sarah Liller, Blogger, Kara Ashe of GoVeeBlog.com and The Beauty Bohemian herself, Mira Torres. Mira scored a one on one interview with Rachel and will be writing about it very soon. I will keep you posted!

The event ran from 6-8 pm and I arrived around 7:15. The crowd was fashionable and DJ Tina T was droppin' beats. They served "mocktails" and hand passed Rachel's candy bars made by Dylans Candy Bar. They were showcased in pink, blue and purple colored sugar and the package design was ideal.

I had anticipated hundreds of people but the crowd was intimate and the event was casual. The models were lined up near Rachel Roy's desk and they changed their clothes every 15 minutes. They had been styled just like Rachel Roy's website with their hair in braids and matching accessories. Some of the shoes are currently sold out on her website but are available at macys.com.  

 

The Dosti dress available at RachelRoy.com or at Macys.com. $109

The Pancake shoe in Turquoise are sold out on Rachel Roy's website but are available at Macys.com $119

The Charm Hoop Earrings $32 Available on RachelRoy.com

 The Tribal Mix Dress in dark/indigo salmon $129 is available on Rachelroy.com or on Macys.com

One of my favorites of the night is the beautiful shoe below. The Fynbar. It retails for $149 and does not ship until 6/1. Exclusively available at rachelroy.com

Lancome Teams Up With Japanese Artist Yayoi Kusama For Limited Edition Gloss

I never considered my lip gloss art until now and because of that, I almost feel guilty using it. Lancome has teamed up with Japanese Artist, Yayoi Kusama to create these limited edition Juicy Tubes in six colors gorgeous. The visually stimulating tubes feature Kusama's famous polka dots along with her signature. Her art is currently on display at Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofia, Madrid through September. You can buy them online at Lancome-usa.com for only $15!

Happy One Year Anniversary Kimberlee!

We are celebrating another milestone at Sugar Lips Lifestyle Tips. Miss Kimberlee joined our team one year ago as a Real World Fashion Contributor producing weekly articles that focused on affordable fashion for our readers. Her debut was May 17th, 2010 addressing every woman's issue, the upper arms. In Bare the Shoulder Spare the Arm, she provided quick and easy tips to help keep your arms in check and your confidence high.

She has since been promoted to the Fashion Director role taking on more responsibility managing much of our social media and online client engagement. Additionally, Kimberlee manages the Facebook fan page and researches to provide our readers with Daily Deals in the market. Her sense of style has helped numerous women across the country as she wins over the hearts and closets of our readers. I am especially excited to share the stage with her in the end of June. Kimberlee is coordinating our upcoming summer celebration "Who We Love 2011" in conjunction with Hesperidian Group to present a runway show of local indie designers and small business that we love and support. Thank you, Kimmy for all of your hard work!

Kimberlee has brought our readers affordable fashion that is accessible and has made it approachable by providing accessory tips, purchasing channels, and discount opportunities. As a result, she has since produced fashionable copy for ShoeGlamm and Sugar Sugar Shoes is taking on new clients weekly. She has contributed over 55 articles to Sugar Lips Lifestyle Tips over the past year; here are a few of my favorites!

Check out her website at http://kimberleesmithstyle.tumblr.com/

Thank you Kimberlee for your incredible style, positive energy and support. You are truly a blessing and I am fortunate to have you on my team! Here's to many years to come!

Love you,
Jace