Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts That Give Back to Charity

If you're up at 6am, tomorrow, tune into FOX5 Good Day Street Talk. I'll be shaing wonderful Gifts that Give Back. There's something for everyone on your list.  
 
Jill Zarin Jewelry
Jill Zarin Facets Ring -- $58
During the month of December, 35% price of purchase goes to the Ilya Peckerman Fund Vasculitis Foundation, my personal charity in honor of my late father. We raise funds for important research projects in hopes of finding a cure for these rare, autoimmune diseases. To support this cause you can also Shop4Vasculitis all year long!

Kohl’s
Kohl's Cares The Velveteen Rabbit Collection - $5  Kohl's Cares Good Housekeeping Chocolate! Recipe Book - $5 
100% net profit goes to children’s health and education initiatives.
To date, Kohl’s Care has raised over $208M for programs in local communities across the country.

GODIVA

GODIVA partnered with FEED for a limited edition FEED 8 GODIVA Origins Collection - $25
Proceeds from each box provides eight school meals for children in cocoa producing regions.

CHOOZE

CHOOZE Shoes make fun kids shoes and sneakers - $40-$60
Is a Good Return Company, so they invest their profits anti-poverty programs providing training, education, &loans to women so they break free of the poverty cycle. 

HSN
heART HSN 2012 Designer Ornament Collection - $14 - $19
100% of net profits goes to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Ravishing Jewelry
Sunshine Stack of five bracelets including yellow jade and grey chalcedony with peace sign - $84
40% goes to The Farley Project which is dedicated to combating the culture of bullying. As someone who was bullied in school, I can attest that most kids don't speak up. Let's give them the support they need to break the cycle of emotional abuse.

Krotchet Kids
Krotchet Kids makes knit hats m scarves and other accessories for the whole family - mostly $25 - $35
100% goes back to teaching women in developing countries how to crochet to rise above poverty and provide for their families. Today, over 150 people in Uganda and Peru are working, receiving education, and being mentored toward a brighter future thanks to this wonderful company.

BodyRock Sport
BodyRock Sport mastectomy sports bra from the Empower Em’ Collection - $90-$100
When you buy one of these bras,a similar one will be given to a post-cancer surgery patient via the American Cancer Society.

Mark
M.Powerment Initiative lipstick & compact - $24
100% of net profit goes to help stop the cycle of dating abuse via the Avon Foundation. 

Pregnancy Tales: Baby Steps, Salvaging a Shitty Day

Waking up at 10am, when you think it's 7am already screams it's going to be one of those hard-to-smile-through-it days. Yesterday's 4:30am to 7pm work day is biting me in the ass. Or maybe it's just that dam sciatic nerve that is gnawing at my right side, mainly around my ass-et. I have no desire to see anyone or do anything. I should probably call my assistant and tell her to work remotely. And, is now a good time to share that my pimple situation isn't getting any better?!? AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH I'm exhausted, hormonal and not fully prepared for my Skype conference call.  

That was my morning dialogue. A good cry soon followed.

To quote a song, "Mama said there will be day's like this." But, my mama also taught me to rise above it. Wallowing is easy. Surrendering is easy. I chose a different path.

On my way out the bathroom, I spotted the Daniel Green bootie slippers from yesterday's Cyber Monday segment, which proved to be a stylish alternative to socks (heels in the office was physically/painfully impossible -- Side Bar: they were still worn for all appointments!!). The booties led to a ski bunny-inspired ensemble complete with a faux fur vest.  

 

Was I beginning to see a smile form on my face?

Pimples were properly moisturised, treated and then left alone while I indulged in a yummy croissant with lox and cream cheese. Then, the pimples were quickly covered up. I went as far as to put on my "TV face". Like I said, I knew it was going to be one of those days. I needed to take all the necessary baby steps to buffer my mood.

Lastly, some bling. A sparkly bracelet from Ann Taylor and a silver python cuff from Ted Rossi completed my look and helped me climb one more step up the ladder of confidence and happiness.

I'm not going to say that at present time (6:30pm) I feel honky dory. But, rest assured, if these baby steps of pampering were not taken, I'd be worse off and likely wallowing in bed waiting for my husband to come home. Boy would that be an attractive gift at the end of his long day! Because he loves me, my misery would become his misery. Nothing says "lets fornicate" like a sappy wife. Instead, well, I have OTHER plans tonight ;).

If you are having a difficult day, be it due to pregnancy, self doubt, parental issues, whatever, think about the baby steps you can take to improve your outlook. Leave me a comment. I welcome your thoughts and hope that my story helps you strive to achieve your best you.  

As Seen On, Cyber Monday Deals CBS Live from the Couch

It was great to be on LIVE From The Couch with the fabulous Carolina Bermudez (finally everyone gets to see that pretty face, not just the voice) and John Elliott (enjoy my special gift!).



Part 1 -- Where Are The Cyber Monday Deals?



Part 2 -- More Cyber Monday Deals

 

Part 3-- Retailers Working Hard To Attract Shoppers Online

PS Don't forget to check out Gia's amazing site The Long Island Coupon Queen. Happy Shopping.

As Seen On TV: Cyber Monday Deals, CBS LIVE From The Couch

UPDATE 11am - Here is part one of my three part Cyber Monday segment, from this morning. To view parts 2 and 3 click here. And, check out all the deals, especially my EXCLUSIVES below!!! Some didn't make it on air.

If you live in New York, tune into CBS WLNY Live From The Couch at 7:10am for amazing Cyber Monday deals. I'm sharing the scoop on my favorite deals and offering up exclusives. Can't watch? I've posted some of the deals below. Happy shopping.

 

CLOTHING

** PIPERLIME - lots of brands everyone loves. I'm picking up some skinny maternity jeans for myself and my girlfriend.

20% off site-wide
code:CYBER 

** COLDWATER CREEK - great gifts for mom. I love all the cable knit sweaters.

50% off site wide get huge savings

** GetThis.TV - new site launching today that focuses on products you see on your favorite shows

LIVE From The Couch EXCLUSIVE (and for my readers!!)

40% off Denimocracy jeans for her on the GetThis.TV
code: COUCH
ends: 11:59pm EST 11/26/12

** AMIClubwear.com - 50% off site wide

You can score great shoes, sunglasses, dresses, etc for yourself or your daughter for as less than $10

Code: cyber50

ACCESSORIES

** KOOBA - handbags worn by all the celeb, normally $300++

25% off ALL items Including already marked down product

** Chictweak.com - scarves from Bindya, DVF, Echo Design & more

LIVE From The Couch EXCLUSIVE

get 30% off entire site
Code: COUCH
ends: 7am-12pm EST

** AlexBlake.com - fun fashion tights, great for any woman in your life from tweens to grandma

25% off select item, plus a

LIVE From The Couch EXCLUSIVE 25% off the very popular Wool and Party tights which are not in the regular Cyber Monday sale

code: COUCH

ends: 11:59pm EST 11/26/12

** Nissa Jewelry  - this is a go-to celeb costume jewerly brand, fans include Giuliana Rancic, Kourtney Kardashian, Carrie Underwood

50% off all sale items PLUS free Molli Rope Bacelet with any purchase (2nd gift!!)

code: CYBER

** Devora Libin Jewels  - a favorite at this year's Oscar's suite, designer is offeing 20% off site wide.

check out Hot Pink/Tangerine Skull Bracelet (normally $80, now $60) PLUS 20% net goes to my charity, the Ilya Peckerman Vascultis Foundation charity -- style, substance and savings!

code: cyber

BEAUTY

** Daniel Green - Cozy up with the king of cozy slippers. I love the Trista Bootie.

LIVE From The Couch EXCLUSIVE

site-wide discount of 40%
Code: COUCH
ends: 7am-12pm EST

** Oasis Day Spa - facials, massages, how about a makeup appointment for mom?

LIVE From The Couch EXCLUSIVE

while everyone else get's 10% off, you get 20% off any online purchase today only AND 20% off ANY service if you call in today and cite THE COUCH to make appt
code: COUCH
ends: midnight 11/26/12 today

** MARK - spend $40 today and you get a $72 gift with purchase ... Gold Clutch which includese mascara/lipstick, 3 pairs of stud earrings, hand lotion, nail polish and a ring ... divide it up as stocking stuffers for others

** Rita Hazan - the queen of hair coloring …all the celebs go to her Katy Perry, Beyonce, JLO

LIVE From The Couch EXCLUSIVE

30% all products.The Root Concealer is a must in between appointments.
code: COUCH
ends: midnight 11/26/12 today

** LovelySkin.com  - home of hundreds of your favorite brands

25% off your order, plus

LIVE From The Couch EXCLUSIVE your viewers get a $99 Gift With Purchase when you spend $200 or more

Code: COUCH

Ends: Dec 10th

 

 

STOCKING STUFFERS

**polkadotwhat.com -Fashion meets art when the kids express themselves by designing their own leggings.

LIVE From The Couch EXCLUSIVE

30% off the STRIPES collection plus FREE Polkadot What backpack and fabric markers

code:COUCH

ends: Monday 12/3

** Pinch Provisions

- Whether you’re buying a MinimergencyKit for Mom, or a BFF Monogram MinimergencyKit + Refills for your girlfriends, stock up on holiday gifts for anyone and everyone at a discount! 10% off of the entire site

** LuxMobile - Stylish, blinged out iphone cases, laptop decals great for him and her

50% discount

code:Cybm12

KEEP IT SEXY

** Bedroom Chemist – kick your bedroom chemistry up a notch with a Chemist’s Kit includes 3 products tested by a panel of women (something for Desire, Foreplay and Passion)

While everyone else enjoys 20% off ...

LIVE From The Couch EXCLUSIVE and all my readers get 30% off their first kit or subscription

code: COUCH

ends: Friday, November 30, 2012
FYI This wasn't allowed on air ... John Elliott and Mrs. Elliott enjoy the sample I left for you in the green room ;).

** Yummie Tummie  - Go out feeling slim and sexy thanks to this amazing line of shapewear from NY Housewife Heather Thompson.

sitewide 30% off sale www.yummielife.com. They NEVER discount their core pieces – tanks, bottoms, slips – so stock up today!

 

Fashion Fix: Holiday 2012 Hosiery Trends

One of the reasons I adore winter is the constant excuse to wear hosiery. Sheer, opaque, fishnet, texture, prints of all kind, I can't get enough. In fact, I'm pretty old school in that I detest going to a formal function with bare legs. Ah, winter weddings!!

When you are in a fashion rut, accent your bland grey shift dress with herringbone tights or try some polka dots. Wearing interesting tights will not only elevate your overall style, but your mood. How can one frown with floral hosiery?

Below, Laura Godsal, founder of AlexBlake.com, my go-to site for all my favorite European brands, shares her top tights trends for the holiday season.

Glitter Luxe Perfect for the Times Square Ball Drop, see in the New Year with shimmer and sparkle.  For all over shimmer, opt for the Pamela Mann Lurex Highball Tights for instant party legs. If you’re coveting a more elegant style, look no further than Jonathan Aston Stardust Tights with glitter back seams.  Emilio Cavallini has added a touch of Hollywood to the glamorous Metallic Fountain Tights. (PS I wear these!!) 

Winter Woolies It's all about texture this season, as cable knits and ribbed pattern come out in full force.  Avoid frost in the Jonathan Aston Horizon Tights to get the ribbed look or go preppy in the Pretty PollyTangled Cable Tights. For a festive spin Pamela Mann has a snowflake print throughout their FairislePrinted Tights.

 

Punchy Prints Prints create lasting fashion statement. Hot off the catwalk, the houndstooth print is an easy print for all to wear, just perfect for those wanting to dip their toes in the pattern world. If you like it colourful, vibrant Henry HollandHoundstooth Tights will get your legs the attention they deserve. 

Embellished Transform your legs into works of art. For ultimate evening elegance, Emilio Cavallini proves that diamonds are not just for the jewellery box with the Cable and Diamond Baguette Tights. 

Colour Block O’Clock Fashions it trend can easily be accomplished with tights.  Pair your LBD with the  Oroblu Myriam Tights in Teal to hit on the peacock color craze.  

 

Mom Knows Best: Tailor Your Pants or Look Like a Slob

While walking down Sixth Avenue, after a pleasant preview of the latest jewelry from Whiting & Davis, I was appalled to see a woman with extra long pants. Did she think the sidewalk needed extra sweeping? Ah, so maybe she was performing a sanitation mitzvah? But, probably not! She clearly was never taught the value of good tailoring.

I can't tell you how many hours I spent in an apartment on Brighton Beach, waiting for my mother, grandmother, sister and eventually myself to get our pants marked up by Edita, a magical seamstress. The ladies in my family are short, about 5'1 on average; there are very few pants we own that aren't tailored. In fact, not only do we hem pants, we take them in all over when the style is unique and the price is right (ex: Versace pants from Loehmann's for $50 + $15 for alterations!). For several extra dollars, it's worth having perfectly fit pants. That's the gem of wisdom my mom and grandma instilled in me from an early age. 

Lady on the street, if you're reading this, please spend $5-$10 so that we don't have to see your sad looking, extra long pant legs again. All I want is for you to look good and feel great. There is NO way you are feeling confident walking around like this. 

Pregnancy Tales: My Face Looks Likes Mars, aka Pimple Drama

I woke up this morning, sashayed into the bathroom to brush my teeth, and found more pregger presents - more red bumps, white spots, PIMPLES. My face is officially turning into Mars thanks to hormones caused by the little bun cooking in my oven. It's devastating, unattractive and a confidence kills. Oh, wait, am I supposed to feel grateful at every step of this pregnancy? Am I supposed to go with the flow? I WILL NOT SURRENDER. 

I don’t care if you are pregnant, post-menopausal or PMSing; you always need to look your best and take care of yourself. It’s not easy, but it’s your job. If you want to avoid losing your sense of self, sexuality and appeal to men (oh ya, babies can be marriage or at least romance killers) then I suggest you follow my mantra: Always Be Your Best You. 

Back to the pimples. I've reached out to three amazing beauty/skin experts to share their tips on how to fight the barrage of pimples popping up on my face. First, some thoughts from my friend Amber Katz of BeautyBloggingJunkie.com. 

PP What causes pimples?  

AK Anything from hormones to dry-out from a plane ride to the clogging of pores from sleeping in your makeup can lead to breakouts. When you're pregnant, it's the hormones! 

PP What is the best method to deal with pimples?   

AK  For mild to moderate acne, Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Pads work well. Use them every other morning to exfoliate. I also love Mario Badescu Drying Potion.  

PP What's a pimple myth you'd love to pop?  

AK One myth is that you shouldn't moisturize and that oils will further aggravate the acne. This is entirely untrue. The less you moisturize your face, the more it overproduces oil to compensate. Natural oils like Rodin Olio Lusso and La Face Hydrating are a great bet as they contain no mineral oil, which can clog pores.  

PP What is the best makeup to use to cover up pimples?  

AK My favorites are Cle de Peau Concealer for its dry consistency, which lasts longer and Hard Candy Glamoflauge Concealer Pencil. The name's clever and it works perfectly to dab on top of eruptions that can feel like a second head is growing out of your skin.

Check back next week for insight from a dermatologist and beauty-industry veteran. 

Fashion Fix: Sexy Winter Coats, Dawn Levy

I'm sick of seeing women turn into the Michelin Man, as soon as winter starts. Is it so hard to look sexy and cozy in a puffer jacket? Seek and yee shall find, ladies. It doesn't matter if you have $75 or $750, if you're a size 4 or 14, there is a figure-flattering winter coat for you. 

Last fall, I found myself in Bloomingdale's during a ridiculous sale, and scored two Dawn Levy down jackets for less than the price of one. I was only planning on keeping one, but my husband liked both so much that I never made the return. What's not to like with a belted, curve-accenting coat? Men know sexy, ladies, and they like when they can see our shape! 

TIP If you're not in the market for a new coat, at least add a belt around your existing one. If you own a black coat, experiment with belts in pops of color like cobalt blue, rose gold or neon pink. Have fun and show off that body!

Dawn Levy Winter 2012 collection