Lara Eurdolian, Brooke Burke

Pretty Connected caught up with Dancing with the Stars host, Brooke Burke to get the skinny on her gorgeous locks as she kicked off the Wella Professionals Color Discovery Tour.

Pretty Connected (PC): What’s most important to you when it comes to your hair?

Brooke Burke (BB): I think healthy hair is probably the most important. I do a lot of conditioners and deep conditioners, glosses, and get regular haircuts. I don’t stray too much from natural browns so I use the Wella Professionals hair color line in the salon, to keep my hair healthy and shiny.

PC: What hair product can you not live without?

BB: I like spray glosses since my hair is pretty curly and gets frizzy. I also use coconut oil in a jar, which you can get at most health food stores; it’s really cheap, all natural and it’s the best. I put it on my ends and it’s great!

PC: What’s your beauty secret?

BB: Less in more, especially in the summertime. For me, it’s really about sunscreens, and maybe tinted sunscreens or moisturizers and not laying too much.

PC: What attracted you to Wella and what is the best advice they have given you?

BB: I’ve always wanted to do a hair campaign and Wella approached me.  I love their products; I use the Wella Professionals color line and glosses.

The best advice they gave me was to have a conversation with my colorist and ask what they were using on my hair. I didn’t before, most women don’t.  The whole point of this tour is to encourage woman ask those questions and really educate themselves with their colorist. I would pull out tear sheets and have visuals and say this is what I want but I had no idea what they were using. Wella is trying to correct that and get people to have a better relationship with their colorist and broaden awareness about the Wella line.

More images from the Wella Professionals Hair Discovery Tour:

From 10am – 7pm, simply visit the white Batiste tent in Union Square to participate.  I haven’t tried Batiste Dry Shampoo, however I’ve only read great reviews so I look forward to getting my hands on a bottle.

About Summer in the Square:

Summer in the Square is a popular free weekly series in the South Plaza of Union Square Park that runs every Thursday starting on June 17th through August 12th. The series offers an electrifying blend of music, theatrical performances, yoga and fitness classes, as well as activities for children.

For more information visit www.unionsquarenyc.org

Wella Professionals is partnering with “Dancing With The Stars” host, Brooke Burke and top NYC salons to kick-off their first ever 8 city Color Discovery Tour.  On June 21 and 22^nd, Wella will be taking over the South Street Seaport to educate women about haircolor.

Brooke Burke, will be sharing the secrets behind her haircolor in a special presentation on June 21st at 10am. Once inside Wella’s mobile salon, women will receive a free consultation with colorists from top salons like Mark Garrison and Arrojo Studio and a coupon for a discounted color service at a participating salon.

• When: Monday, June 21st  – June 22^nd
• Time: 10 am – 6 pm
• Where: South Street Seaport – Pier 17, 19 Fulton Street, NYC

Wella Professionals will be making stops all summer long in Philadelphia, Washington DC, Miami, Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco and Los Angeles.  For more information visit their Facebook page HERE

See you there!

You’ve probably noticed that lately I’ve been slacking.  My travel itch has been flaring and while I thought more time to myself = more writing, evidently that has proved false.

While my blogging may suffer on this vacation, my love of trying new beauty products and tools has not.  In fact, there are currently two makeup cases filled with cosmetics and skincare as well as a travel flat iron and blow dryer in my suitcase.

Now it’s no secret that no matter how great my makeup and outfit is, if my hair looks bad, I feel bad [Disclaimer: this complex does not apply when hanging out by myself or with family].  So travel size hair styling tools are essential for when I hit the road.  Currently there are two that I’m excited about; Ken Paves Nano Silver Tourmaline Ceramic Styling Iron and Con Air MiniPRO® Tourmaline Ceramic™ Styler Hair Dryer.

I do of course recommend using proper stying hair products with all heating tools to keep hair protected and healthy as well as sectioning hair in parts, and drying with the grain of the hair with either a comb or round brush (depending on desired look).

Ken Paves Nano Silver Tourmaline Ceramic – $60

I have been using this flat iron regularly for the past 6 months and it hasn’t let me down yet.  I have big, wavy hair so I need a very durable straightner with a lot of heat to really work my hair straight. The Nano Silver Tourmaline Ceramic plates quickly heat to 410 degrees, maintaining a high and even heat that leaves my hair frizz-free and shiny.

It’s slim and lightweight design makes it highly portable whether it’s transporting it to the office or across the ocean.  It also makes it incredibly user friendly and great for any tough to straighten areas, such as my small wisps across my forehead and behind my ears.

Added Perks:

• Nano Silver Tourmaline Ceramic – Ceramic 1″ inch plates gently hold hair and apply heat evenly to every strand
• Smooth Swivel Design – 360 degree swivel connection prevents tangling
• Portable Design – Designed for traveling and perfect for styling bangs, short hair, close to the scalp, men’s hair and finishing
• Convenient Storage – Thermal lines travel pouch included
• Measures only 9″ long

For more information and to purchase visit folica.com or ulta.com

Con Air MiniPRO® Tourmaline Ceramic™ Styler – $22

I’ll admit, I’ve only recently gotten into blow-drying my hair. Having ‘big’ hair I’ve always found better luck with flat irons. However, ever since receiving a Keratin Treatment from Mizu Salon (review to come), my hair is a lot more manageable and receptive to blow drying.

I was given the Con Air MiniPRO® Tourmaline Ceramic™ Styler at the Gift Show in NYC, by a very optimistic sales rep after I delivered a very pessimistic speech on how unruly my hair can be and how particular I am about my heating products. Basically, good is not good enough, I want something great –and not just great for a ‘travel size’. Size should not compromise quality.

Well this hair dryer is wonderful! It’s so compact and lightweight and with 1200 watts of mega-power it rivals any full-size blow dryer.  Plus it comes with add –ons (diffuser and concentrator) which makes my life so much easier.

It also passed the ultimate test: Mom.  I made the mistake of bringing on my current trip to Boston (where my family is) and asking her for a second opinion.  With decades of blow-drying experience she’s beyond an expert (and pickier then I am when it comes to products).  Well lets put it this way, she liked it so much, I’m coming home one product short in my suitcase.

Added Perks:

• Tourmaline Ceramic™ technology – natural ions help smooth the hair’s cuticle layer, creating silky, shiny results
• 2 heat/speed settings
• Worldwide dual voltage
• Deluxe travel pouch – perfect for on the go
• Diffuser for curly and wavy styles
• Concentrator for pinpoint styling
• Limited two-year warranty

For more information visit www.conair.com/

Now all I need is a travel curling iron!

Affiliation: Both products were given to Pretty Connected by a company representative.  Pretty Connected was under no obligation to write this review.

For more information visit www.kerastase-usa.com

Just in time for spring, the June 2010 issue of Women’s Health Magazine will report the winners of their 4th annual Beauty Awards. Featuring both reader’s and editor’s picks by category (hair, face, body, and makeup), I had the privilege of joining the publication for the announcement of their winners and received an advanced copy of the magazine.

So who won? Here’s a sneak peek at some of my favorite editor’s picks:

• Best Budge-proof Eye Shadow – Tarte Lock & Roll Eyeshadow in Burnt Bronze
• Best Sheer Cheek Color – NARS Cadacques Multiple Tint
• Best Foundation – Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
• Best Self-Tanner – Clarins Self-Tanning Instant Gel
• Best Mascara – CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume
• Best Dry Shampoo – Umberto Beverly Hills Dry Clean Dry Shampoo
• Best OTC Treatment for Uneven Skin Pigmentation – Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector

I have to say this event was a lot of fun. Women’s Health Magazine featured all the winners by category and I greatly enjoyed reading about each product and having the opportunity to talk makeup with Women’s Health Beauty Director Molly Nover-Baker and Associate Beauty Editor Alexis Farah and answering the infamous question of ‘what do you think?’ Honestly, I was impressed for a number of reasons, mainly because I thought it was very original.

I was happy to see of the products I had tried, all of them were in my top five for that category (if not my favorite), and pleasantly surprised that I hadn’t tried the majority of the winners. There was great mix of mass and prestige brands across all categories and price points. They didn’t choose a lot of the ‘classic winners’, which while deserving, it’s always nice to learn about some unsung heroes who are just as worthy. In fact, I noticed a healthy assortment of new products that launched within the past year that have been on my radar won. Of course we all have our favorite products and brands we’d love to see make the charts, but it’s difficult to be so opinionated when there really are so many spectacular products on the market right now. So while I can’t judge what I haven’t tried based on the assortment of winners, I’m very intrigued and excited to try their recommendations. This is especially true for the Best Product for Curly Hair winner of whom Alexis raved about –however you’ll have to pick up the issue for that winner (I’ve spoiled enough of the surprise).

The complete list of winners is available in the June 2010 issue Women’s Health Magazine hitting newsstands on May 25th. For more information visit WomensHealthMag.com

How does a Real Housewife of New York launch a jewelry line? In style.  Last week, Ramona Singer, alongside her daughter Avery launched her new, estate-inspired jewelry collection for HSN at famed uptown salon, Mizu New York.  Guest enjoyed cocktails by Opici Wines while receiving complimentary hair blowouts and a preview of the collection.

Comprised of real diamond and gemstone pieces the assortment of rings, necklaces and bracelets are priced from $300-$500.  My favorite is the Pink Amethyst and Diamond Rose Vermeil Ring (pictured below).

Ramona Singer’s collection is available at HSN.com

Considering my hair has not been cooperating lately, having a stylist handle it and help get me ready for the big evening ahead was just what I needed. Located in the heart of Nolita, this charming spa has resided at 12 Prince Street for the past 7 years.  From the moment I walked into the Maria Bonita Salon & Spa, I instantly felt relaxed and part of the family.

Rogerio, my hair dresser was fantastic, he washed my hair and applied the Envix Hair Treatment Masque; I then sat under the hair dryer for fifteen minutes before having it rinsed it out.  He then proceeded to give me one of the best blow-outs I have ever received.  The point of difference being Rogerio pinned the ends of my hair after drying them to add shape and dimension while the manicurist tended to my nails. Talk about being pampered, I was ready to move in!

What really enhanced the experience was how social and positive the atmosphere and vibrant the staff at the Maria Bonita Salon & Spa was. By the end of my session my hair was full of volume, bounce and shine, and the best part was that it felt so light weight (similar to the way it feels once I get my hair cut). With the added bonus of the manicure, I was ready for my evening out and all the debauchery St. Patrick’s Day entails.

My only complaint is that this Envix treatment is it’s not available for purchase (as of yet!) –and believe me I tried.  Packed with proteins, amino acids, vitamins and natural actives my hair responded so well to the treatment. I woke up the next morning with it fully intact and manicured, and all this week my hair was noticeably healthier and more manageable.

Priced at $70, the ‘Luck of the Irish’ package is available until May 2010.  For more information and to book an appointment visit mariabonitany.com

Inspired by the new Eastern European woman (from countries like The Republic of Georgia), hair stylist Rolando Beauchamp for Bumble and bumble, used buns, braids, and headscarves in bold colors to bring designer Alexandre Herchovitch’s vision to life.  “Alexandre was deeply influenced by director Sergev Parajanov and his film ‘The Color of Pomegranates’. Parajanov was highly controversial and was even jailed for a time in the ‘70’s,” noted Beauchamp.

Using Bumble and bumble, Beauchamp prepared locks with ‘White Hair Powder’.  He first sectioned hair from ear to ear and used the back section to create a bun.  On the side sections he braided random, small sections of hair and secured them with a small elastic being sure to slightly pull on the side of the braids to create a more textured look.  Some braids were left to hang and others were tucked into the bun.  Non-braided sections were flat ironed.  The whole look was secured with ‘Does It All’ for hold, and then adorned with a colorful scarf.

*Makeup by Lead Stylist Philippe Chansel for M.A.C

Robert Verdi’s Luxe Lounge was beyond my expectations. The style icon was not only charismatic, and full of smiles, but also the most fabulous host.  He thought of everything a girl needed to relax, and escape from all the running around.  From healthy snacks and juices by Blue Print Cleanse, to manicures by Ginger + Liz Nail Polish, to blowouts by Phyto, the haven pampered guests from head to toe, and inside and out.

The beautifully decorated Luxe Lounge showcased brands Verdi felt represented the future of style. He covered all categories (see list below), and gave away something special from every endorsement.  Now I’m no a stranger to freebies, but even I felt completely spoiled.  What girl doesn’t love presents?

Here’s what Robert Verdi’s future of style looks like:

• Home Design = Modern Dose.  I’m obsessed with this site and it’s founder Estella Lugo for her impeccable taste.  It makes me want to redesign my whole apartment.
• Boobs = Maidenform ‘Like Magic Bra.’ It increases two cup sizes instantly! They also have an amazing array of high-quality bras in all different styles for anyone not looking for an enhancement.
• Hair = Phyto – An amazing hair line that uses the power of nutrients from plants to bring you healthy, beautiful hair.
• Makeup = Jouer – Bringing you customizable beauty products.
• Shapewear = SHATOBU – The body shaper that helps tone muscles and burn up to 12% more calories.
• Nails = Ginger + Liz Nail Polish – Non-toxic, organic nail polish.
• Food = Blue Print Cleanse – The ultimate cleanse consisting of juices and whole unadulterated foods packed with enzymes and nutrients.
• Hydration = VitaminWater Zero – 7 flavors, no calories.
• Cocktails = ABSOLUT Berri Acai – This product is made with superfoods; acai, blueberry, and pomegranate.  I indulged in this beverage at the studio and it was delightful.
• Footwear = Vans – Customize your own pair of shoes at www.vans.com.
• Snacking =Popcorn Indiana – Healthier then most popcorn on the market, and oh so tasty.
• Transport = The Mercedes S400 Hybrid – This vehicle uses the world’s first lithium ion battery for cars.  Stylish and sleek, it’s definitely drool worthy but a little outside my budget. Plus I love my little Vespa.
• Wardrobe = GardRobe – They offer endless closet space for wardrobe storage and valet service.
• Art = 20×200 – real, original prints (no reproductions) from major artists beginning at the amazing price of $20.
• Eyewear = Carrera Champion sunglasses – Check out this hot sunglasses sported by Lady Gaga in her ‘Bad Romance’ music video.

Looking through Robert Verdi’s (Carrera) lenses, I would say the future is looking very bright!