OpenSky Launches Beauty + PC Interviews Dr. Brandt!

Posted 05/03/2012 by Lara

Yesterday, I had an event-full day of meeting some major industry experts at the Opensky beauty launch party.

Meet the OpenSky curators!

Some of you may be familiar with Opensky — they are a shopping site that pairs industry experts in food, style, healthy living, kids and home to curate some of their favorite products and make them available to you. Fresh to the website is now BEAUTY! To name a few… Dr. Neal Schultz, MD, Pati Dubroff, Chandler Burr, Sue Devitt, Alicia Silverstone and Dr. Brandt are all curators for this new category and the product range for beauty spans over Hair, Makeup, Body, Fragrance, Skincare and Wellness.

I had some one-on-one time with Dr. Brandt (yes the Dr. Brandt!!) to talk yoga, summer must-haves, SPF and how to fight back against sun damage! Take a look:

For more on OpenSky, visit opensky.com

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Support Blondes vs. Brunettes: Fashion Bloggers unite!

Posted 04/30/2012 by Lara

Go BvB!! You know you want this shirt... (get it HERE)

While I’ve done several beauty and fashion partnerships, this was the first month where I was recognized in a national campaign by a beauty brand for my volunteer work — and for that I  am really honored to have had all of your support.

I do like to use my site to highlight ways for my readers to get more involved and support their community, which is why I’m excited to join my fellow fashion bloggers in support of Blondes vs. Brunettes.

Blondes vs. Brunettes, is a flag football game that pits blondes vs. brunettes to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association.  Last year alone, the New York chapter raised over $100,000, contributing to already $1,000,000 the organization has raised between nationally towards research.

Alzheimer’s is a cause close to my heart. I had a very difficult month with the passing of my grandmother. And while Continue Reading…

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A full Hollywood showing for the White House Correspondents’ Dinner

Posted 04/29/2012 by Lara

I wish Fred Armisen was my date to nerd prom! Until then I'll settle for a photo...

I find it extremely entertaining that I can completely burn out on the NYC event scene, and yet have the time of my life participating if it’s in a different city… Maybe it’s time to move or just that the weekend of The White House Correspondents Dinner (WHCD) DC is just that fun. (I’m going with the latter).

First off, the fact that the WHCD is referred to as nerd prom is kind of hilarious – which would only be outdone if it actually involved more cuberbunds, awkward glasses and the most outlandish frizzy hair possible; while in actuality it’s a very formal affair with the crowd dressed to the nines and more celebrities in one evening then all of fashion week combined.

The only people not expected to be on their best behavior is our President and host, Jimmy Kimmel who take the stage as though it’s an episode of Comedy Central’s Roast — and maybe Woody Harrelson as the representative of the stoner community.

{My lovely fellow writers with the ever-so-classy (and gracious) Diane Sawyer}

The event takes place at the Washington Hilton and right before the dinner the pre-cocktail events begin in the hotel. Amy and I hit up the CBS/National Journal/Atlantic party which was pact! We had a few glasses of wine, took pictures in the photobooth and mingled with the crowd.

{The most hilarious picture of Claire Danes and Bob Schaffer}

I saw Lindsay Lohan’s head pop through the crowd, but all eyes we’re on Claire Danes, who was standing next to Bob Schaffer! As I made my way over, he moved out of the way, so humble trying to not block the way; only to be surprised that he was the one I was gunning for! It didn’t seem appropriate to say, I’ve been watching you since I was a child, so I went with, “I’ve been watching you forever” — to which he replied, “I’ve been on forever”.  All I needed was Charles Osgood and my evening would be complete.

{Me and Bob Schaffer!}

Rosario Dawson, Mary J. Blige and Gayle King formed a nice corner and mingled amongst themselves and fans. Rosario Dawson, who is STUNNING (how is she not a spokeswoman for a beauty brand? Her skin is amazing!) and I bonded over Burning Man.

{Mary J. Blige could not have been sweeter}

{I’ll see you on the playa!}

{Rosario Dawson chatting with Gayle King}

{Mary J. Blige and Norah O’Donnell}

The cocktail party concluded and the dinner guests filed downstairs, while the rest of us formed a viewing party and had dinner upstairs in the hotel. It’s funny to eat dinner and watch Obama speak knowing he’s directly one floor below. Then once the dinner concludes we all regroup in the lobby, which is an even larger red carpet scene then the actual parties!

{Diane Keaton!}

{Barbara Walters!}

{Mother and daughter duo Goldie Hawn and Kate Hudson}

{Bruce and Kris Jenner with Kim Kardashian}

{Calling Malin Akerman!}

{Viola Davis}

{I wonder what Ivanka Trump thought of the hits on her dad}

{I never thought Newt Gingrich would make my blog…}

{My lovely date Amy is wearing BCBG, and I’m in a one-of-a-kind hand made Daniel Feld (head designer for Kymerah), and Betsey Johnson jacket (pictured above)}

Eventually, I’ll update the Pretty Connected Facebook page with the whole album, so check back for more photos from the evening…

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I SPY DIY (I made a bracelet, Jenni wrote a book!)

Posted 04/25/2012 by Lara

{I SPY DIY STYLE book launch party}

{Besties turn twinsies! Mike and I come to support — with unplanned matching outfits}

{Cheers to Jenni!}

{In deep thought over creating my own custom Lara Eurdolian original DIY bracelets}

{Voila, my bracelets! — clearly DIY is not my forte}

{DIY drinks on the other hand…}

There is a downfall to knowing Jenni (and some of you avid readers may find this as well…) — my favorite DIY project of hers wasn’t in the book! As she would say, “you need to wait for the sequel”, and lets face it, she posts new projects almost daily so she can’t fit them all in. However, since patience is not my virtue, until part duex is written, I’m bookmarking posts from her blog for when I’m ready to get creative! And fortunately for me, I found the recipe for the Rope Wrapped Chain Bracelet I was looking for!

I SPY DIY STYLE by Jenni Radosevich, SRP: $21.99, available on amazon.com ($14.95)

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Rory Dobner opens NYC Shop-in-Shop at Maison 24

Posted 04/24/2012 by Lara

Rory Dobner opens a shopp-in-shop! Photo Credit: Wire Image

I need to start this post with… If you’ve never been to Maison 24 and love really edgy modern art and unique eclectic home decor pieces (and have a high decorating budget), you need go!

Started by bother and sister duo, Allison Julius and Louis Marra, the store is a reflection of their travels around the globe and selects of unique products, as well as design their own items. Maison 24 brings together products and designs, artist exclusives (like Dobner) that are modern, traditional, serious, and quirky in a unique and oh-so-hip, setting.

My familiarity with the store bridges from references to their original Bridgehampton’s location. It wasn’t until receiving an invitation for the launch of Rory Dobner premiering a shop-in-shop at Maison 24, that I realized they have an NYC location (which launched last July).

{Rory Dobner Shop-In-Shop at Maison 24}

As for Rory Dobner, international man of art who has worked and exhibited in the UK, USA, Australia, Haiti, Hong Kong, and New Zealand before returning to the UK in 2005 and setting up a studio in Hampstead, London. Rory has completed a variety of impressive commissions and interior design projects in the U.S. including Soho House and Agent Provocateur and has also been commissioned to do projects for will.i.am, Kate Moss, and Robert Downey Jr. And now as of last week, his work resides in a little boutique in the back room of Maison 24.

{Cheers! Aaron & I playing dress-up with their glasses at the opening party}

{Party time!}

{Glitter Gun! Photo Credit: Wire Image}

Ahhhhh! Not since I used to hang out at Leila Sham‘s apartment have I wanted a home makeover so badly! There are so many cool, unique pieces. It was everything I expected and more (including the price tag). Le sigh. Someday…

Maison 24, 470 Park Avenue, NYC

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Redken introduces Chromatics and I get an Ombre!

Posted 04/24/2012 by Lara

How great is this color? Redken recently introduced a breakthrough for hair color with the launch of their new Chromatics service.

Generally, I find the words breakthrough to be overused in this industry (isn’t every brand claiming that when they launch something new?). However, this is the first color process I’ve experienced that uses oil! To be more exact it uses, ODS² (Oil Delivery System) + Protein Extract Technology, which envelopes hair in a layer of protective oil, while long-lasting color dyes and protein extracts are propelled deep into every strand. The result is hair that looks and feels stronger, with brilliant color and zero ammonia!

“So many of my clients stick to a strict 4-6 week schedule for coloring their hair.  With NEW Chromatics, they leave the salon with incredible color and fortified hair,” says David Stanko, Color Consultant for Redken.  “Chromatics is great for providing 100% gray coverage, conditioned high-shine color and rich even results from root to tip.”

While, I’m not one to color my hair, I curiosity got the better of me and I’ve been kicking around the idea of an ombre so I went for it. I arrived at Cutler’s uptown salon all nervous as though I was walking into surgery. My virgin hair about to be processed! I was so timid I asked for a very light ombre that I would be able to outgrow within a few haircuts.

While at the salon, I was scoping all my fellow bloggers hair (all of which we’re going for the full Chromatics experience). I saw a range of beautifully colored blondes through brunettes, all gushing over the treatment.

{Dream hair team at Cutler Salon}

It only took 3 hours and 4 men, but I got my color! And for anyone who’s hesitant to dye their whole hair or too lazy to deal with the maintenance, I highly recommend an ombre. I have no idea why I was so nervous now. I assume it’s like a tattoo (I don’t have one of those either), but once you start you want more. And the best part about an ombre is it’s expected to not be uniform so I don’t have to worry about it getting evened out. And even when my hair is up or curly, I love the hint of color that pops out.

{Messy, morning hair is so muh more fun with a little highlight!}

To locate a Redken salon, visit Redken.com.  If you’re in NYC, you should go to Cutler!

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Alberta Ferretti Launches at Macy’s + I make the Macy’s Blog!

Posted 04/20/2012 by Lara

Ever since the debut of Karl Lagerfeld’s designer collaboration for Macy’s private label, Impulse, the fashion retailer has been on a roll! This week PC celebrated the launch of Alberta Ferretti first capsule for Impulse, which is now available at Macy’s!

The collection, which was inspired by the Italian coastline comprised of a fun mix of colorful sunny dresses, floral prints, navy and white lace separates and one shoulder dresses in varying lengths.

{Alberta Ferretti for Impulse}

Hosted on the 3rd floor of Macy’s Herald Square, the space for the launch party was transformed to reflect the Amalfi Coast. While pursuing the collection, I received the ultimate compliment — “I love everything about your outfit, can I take your picture?” Turns out it was the Macy’s blogger and next thing I know I’m on their mBLOG!

{Woot woot! I made the Macy’s Blog!}

While I don’t know if I would use the words “too adorbs” in verbatim, that in line with my description for how cute this short strapless sweetheart dress is! I love it in both the solid colorways and floral print.

{Alberta Ferretti for Impulse collection}

Alberta Ferretti for Impulse is available exclusively at Macy’s nationwide and Macys.com

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Are you an ACTIVE NATURAL? PC Partners with AVEENO to award $10K Grants

Posted 04/12/2012 by Lara

If you happened to pick up the new May issue of Elle Magazine, flip to page 130!!

Weeee! I'm in an AVEENO advertorial in ELLE!

Yup, that’s me! I’m thrilled to be partnering with AVEENO and so honored to serve as an an ambassador for their BE AN ACTIVE NATURAL campaign!

For AVEENO, being an ACTIVE NATURAL is at the core of the brand’s values and something they are committed to in both their products and as a lifestyle. As ingredients ACTIVE NATURALS care for your skin and hair to make a healthier and more beautiful difference. As people, ACTIVE NATURALS care for their communities to also make a real difference. For me, getting to partner with one of the most reputable skin care brands is exciting enough, but to do so for a campaign that’s focused around making a difference… I’m elated!

*Deep breathe* Aveeno called me a HERO

So, in celebration of my fellow ACTIVE NATURALS across the country, AVEENO is awarding eight grants in the amount of $10,000!!! To enter, visit AVEENO’s Facebook page and tell them what you’re doing to enrich, engage, and encourage a beautiful change in your community. Apply now at Facebook.com/Aveeno.

If you visit the “HEROES” tab on their Facebook page you can learn more about my fellow ambassadors and how we strive to be ACTIVE NATURALS. Or you can watch my video they posted below. I am so flattered to have been chosen by AVEENO and to be acknowledged as an ACTIVE NATURAL. It’s such a honor to have the opportunity to couple both of my passions and hopefully inspire some of you to make a difference as well as spread the word about this wonderful campaign.

{What makes me an ACTIVE NATURAL}

I’m lucky to have grown up with a philanthropic mother who always taught me the importance of volunteering and giving back. And in addition to using my website to promote brands, like AVEENO striving to make a difference, I mentor with the non-profit organization, STOKED, that serves to promote personal development, academic achievement, and healthy living to under-served youth through action sports (snowboarding, skateboarding and surfing) and community service programs.

If you’re an ACTIVE NATURAL or know someone who is, APPLY!

**Style moment (all about scarves): In the AVEENO ad I am wearing an Express scarf, in the picture where I’m holding the magazine, I’m in the Lolly Gauze Fringe Scarf and in the video I’m wearing a mark. scarf.

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PC GIVEAWAY! Enter to WIN a custom set of mugs, USB drives, or multi-function tools with YOUR logo on it

Posted 04/10/2012 by Lara

I just started working with Sutter’s Mill Specialties, which specializes in custom engraved promotional marketing materials. You know… all of those cool shirts, mugs or wine openers you see with brands logo’s on it, they do that! They have a product assortment that spans drinkware, apparel, desk & office accessories, frames, tools… And I’m so excited to be partnering with them to give one lucky winner the chance to win their choice of either a set of 6qty Ceramic Mugs, 6qty Stainless-Steel Tumblers, 4qty 18-Function Multi-tools or 6qty 4GB USB Drives with your logo (or initials) on them!

{Win your choice of a set of 6 Ceramic Mugs, Stainless-Steel Tumblers, 4GB USB Drives or set of 4 18-Function Multi-tools}

WIN IT! To enter, leave a comment on which item you want to win and why!

An extra entry will be awarded to anyone that follows @SuttersMill1 and tweets “Enter @SuttersMill1 giveaway to win a set of custom promo materials http://bit.ly/HYxFNP #win” (or any link back to this page is acceptable).

Sutter’s Mill Specialties is additionally giving away 10 additional sets to 10 lucky winners of the same sets through their Facebook page! Just “Like” them and enter at Facebook.com/SuttersMillSpecialties for additional chances to win!

I’m constantly getting promotional products at events, but it wasn’t until Sutter’s Mill sent me a “Pretty Connected” mug with my logo, that I truly appreciated the enjoyment of having something custom branded. Now, after perusing their website, I literally want my logo slapped on everything; which is why I’m so excited to host this giveaway and give some readers the opportunity to win their own.

Think about it, not only is this great for big companies, but also for anyone looking for a Bar Mitzvah party favor, brides for their wedding parties, family reunions, corporate gifts… the possibilities are endless. And they are priced so affordable Continue Reading…

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PC Featured in the Dressbarn’s Spring Fashion Challenge (+20% off coupon)

Posted 04/09/2012 by Lara

Dressbarn's Flutter Sleeve Ruffle Wrap Dress

After working with Dressbarn for their suit drive to benefit Dress for Success (I hope some of you we’re able to donate!), the brand approached me for a fun challenge — finding a universally flattering dress despite size and shape. Does a one-dress-looks-good-on-all frock exist?

Well here it goes… the 5 Ways to Wear It: Spring Fashion Challenge.

The Contestants: 5 bloggers, 5 different shapes

• Moi — Lara of Pretty Connected
• Makeda  of Glamazon Diaries
• Lorna of The Fabulous Report 
• Jordanna of The Fashionisette
• Melissa of The Fat Apple

The Dress: Dressbarn’s Flutter Sleeve Ruffle Wrap Dress in Cobalt Blue ($39.99)

Description: Flirtatious ruffles flutter at the sleeves, edges and hemline of this slinky monochrome wrap dress, which ties at the waist to create an instant hourglass shape. 37″ from shoulder to hem. Full wrap detail closure. Material is 95% polyester/5% spandex. Machine Wash. Available in Size 4 – 24.

I went for more of an edgy rock-glam look when outfitting this dress. I styled the wrap dress with Ray-Ban sunglasses, Winter Kate jacket, mark. necklace, Express bracelet, Skweez Couture tights, Zara shoes, and Rebecca Minkoff bag.

Usually I find when shopping online the items look better on the site then when they come in the mail. Not the case when it came to this dress. It fits like a glove and cobalt blue is all the rage. It’s an easy dress to take from day to night and style in a variety of ways. It’s also really easy to pack so this dress will for sure be going on my Beirut-Rome trip I have planned next month!

For all of you Dressbarn fans, they we’re nice enough to offer a 20% off coupon for all of you to enjoy, valid through 4/30. Details below:

Disclaimer: This dress was sent to Lara on behalf of Pretty Connected for the 5 Ways to Wear It: Spring Fashion Challenge. Pretty Connected was under no obligation to participate or receive any financial gain.

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