Pam's Picks: Best Dressed 2014 Oscars

I broke the no TV rule, last night and let Ilana stay in the living room while mommy enjoyed +E! Entertainment Red Carpet Special from the 86th Annual Academy Awards. She enjoyed her first Red Carpet viewing, but I think Ilana liked cuddling with daddy even more. 

After much debate, here are my top five, best dressed of the night. Do you agree?

Best Dressed Ladies at 2014 Oscars

Kate Hudson in Versace Atelier, 2014 Oscars

The sequence cape or whatever that was, was everything. I love when presenters steal the show!

Portia de Rossi in Naeem Khan, 2014 Oscars 

I want to buy this Naeem Khan gown in white, coral, black, radiant orchid... The fit of the halter dress, the ivory color against Portia de Rossi's milky skin, the honeycomb-beading, the ideal train length, the gorgeous back, it was all perfection. The accessories, her +Fendi clutch and +Christian Dior jewelry completed the mesmerizing style moment. 

Lupita Nyong'o in Prada, 2014 Oscars

I Last night's princess story belonged to 12 Years A Slave star, and Best Supporting Actress winner, Lupita Nyong'o. Her ethereal, powder-blue +Prada gown was an ideal choice for her skin tone and delicate frame. I loved the flecks of sheen in the pleated skirt. And, of course, nobody can stop talking about her simple, graceful Fred Leighton diamond-and-gold headband. Actually, I guess diamonds aren't simple :).  

 Sandra Bullock in Alexander McQueen, 2014 Oscars

Although I'm deeply again the promoting Alexander McQeen, for personal reasons, I can't deny that Sandra Bullock looked regal and Oscar-worthy in this satin gown featuring a sweetheart neckline and dramatic draping. The minimal, but effective, use of Lorrain Schwartz jewels pulled it all together.   

Jenna Dewan-Tatum in Reem Acra, 2014 Oscars

A big trend of the night was sequence on sheen, but it ended up washing out many of the leading ladies much like the rain outside the Dolby Theater.  Jenna Dewan-Tatum's Reem Acra gown was the excpetion. The greyish hue worked with her dark hair, and I love how the beading blended into the feather-like mermaid skirt. Can I get married again, in this dress? +Reem Acra, my five year anniversary is coming up in August. Let's talk. 

Honorary mention goes to:

Bette Midler in Reem Acra, 2014 Oscars

Nobody does it for me quite like The Divine Ms M. I've loved her since I was a little girl and I'm so happy she brought it, last night, in this fiesty, crimson Reem Acra gown which recenlty graced the runways at Mercedes-Benz Fall 2014 Fashion Week in New York. I love that I want to wear this dress, but I'd also want to see it on my mother.  Trend alert: Ms. M was also rocking the short hair, pulled back in waves style that seems to be ageless when done right.  

Christine Teigen in Monique Lhuillier,  2014 Oscars

Christine Teigen looked wonderful in +Monique Lhuillier, but it was her joyful presnce that won me over. Trend alert -- florals of all kinds are huge this spring. Get ready to jump into the garden of fashionable delight. 

Olivia Wilde in Valentino, 2014 Oscars       

Olivia Wilde had my favorite belly bump style moment, last night. The back of her Valentino dress was so simple, yet a great lasting visual for everyone she passed. I would have placed her on my best dressed list were it not for some technical issues and poor tailoring around the chest. I'm sure nobody noticed this, but I'm on my second pregnancy and I know what it's like when that area isn't properly addressed. 

P2 Lifestyle: Organized & Healthy 2014, Pam’s Picks in BELLA NYC Magazine

I’m very excited to announce my new role as contributing columnist for BELLA NYC Magazine. I’ll be sharing my monthly must-haves in Pam’s Picks. First up: six products to help you stick to your health and organizational resolutions for 2014.

(L) Bella NYC's January/February 2014 Cover with Aviva Drescher;
(R) Bella's newest style contributor Pamela Pekerman

Pam's Picks debut in BELLA NYC Magazine

Featured brands in Pam's Picks for BELLA NYC Magazine:

Bestowed.com - monthly nutritionist-in-a-box package, curated by renounced nutritionist and author Heather Bauer

Perrin Paris' Jet Set Clutch - there's no better organizer for your bag, plus it's ready to slip out and make you look chic for an unexpected night out after work

IT Cosmetics' YSBB Your Skin BUt Better CC Cream - the best cover up I've ever owned and my quick fix every morning even when the only people who see me are the baby and the mail man

Pinch Provisions' Skinny Minimergency Kit - everything you could possibly need is something needs to be fixed, plucked, ticked, etc. 

Clarisonic's Pedi Foot Transformation System - because your stiletto feet need a pampering break, and mama can't always get to the spa

Rochelle Behrens' Icon Shirt - finally a shirt that doesn't pucker around the lady friends, thanks to a patented dual-button technology 

Check out the March/April issue for dazzling accessories from inspirational women who decided to make a change in their lives in order to pursue their inner passion for design. 

Pam's Pick: Customized Art for Nursery, Kiddie Designs

My daughter’s nursery room still needs some accessories, namely art. Rather than put up safari animals, butterflies or stars, I want to give her something she’ll enjoy for years to come. Is it wishful thinking to believe she’ll be a sentimental moosh, like her mom?

Here’s a painting that my friend Tracy, owner of Kiddie Designs, made for me. It’s a coral, Capricorn goat with big lashes and stilettos! Each section of the goats body and horns have words that represent my personality – “serious” “elegant” “sincere” “calm” “her own strength” “love & respect” and “modesty.

For Ilana, I’ve ordered an Aries ram in yellow that will be wearing a replica of the “חַי‎” (Hebrew for living) necklace I wear every day. It belonged to my father and I want to strengthen his presence in her life by incorporating him into her room. Lastly, I asked Tracy to wear in roses for Ms. Ilana Rose! I can’t wait to share the final product.

Pam's Pick - 9.25.13

P2 Pam's Pick: Family Time, Be Still on September 11th

We all have a story from that day, the day when many of us experienced a loss of innocence never to be regained -- September 11, 2001.

It was my second day of college; I had just parted ways with my mother, on the Q train, as she had a training class in Brooklyn and I had a few more stops until my arrival at NYU. Mine was the last train to go over the bridge. The first tower was already hit and, like most passengers, I assumed a little helicopter had an accident. By the time I got to 14^th Street in Manhattan, subway service was halted. I ended up walking down to 4^th street and getting in line for the payphone. I was alone, with very few familiar faces, no way of getting home and no way for my parents to come and claim me. Before noon, I still had the option of walking over the bridge back to Brooklyn, but I was petrified that a bomb would hit me. I stayed underground at NYU’s gym facility until I decided to run to 14^th street with a few other girls and spend the night at a friend of an acquaintance’s dorm. It was an odd day. I remember being outside watching the towers fall. I remember thinking I was in a movie. I remember falling asleep and dreaming of being home the following day. As you can imagine, this is an abridged version of what happened that day. There were many faces, many frantic phone calls, many rumors, and plenty of heroic moments of kids going to help at Ground Zero or give blood.

As I sit hear listening to the 9/11 Memorial services, I find it difficult to share a Pam’s Pick. Can I really tell you about my favorite lip/cheek stain, today? Do you want to know about the coolest play gym I found for my baby or the coolest, new hotel in NYC?

Life goes on and upkeeping our style and beauty routine can only help us get through difficult times. But, can’t we just stand still? Can we allocate this day as a national day or remembrance? Can’t we have a moment to properly reflect?

So, today’s Pam’s Pick is family. I’m devoting most of my day to my beloved daughter Ilana Rose. We already had a pleasant walk, this morning, and we’ll do play time in the afternoon. In the evening I’m planning a nice dinner for the hubby. Today, obsess over your family a little bit more than usual. Call your grandma one extra time. Give your children one extra kiss. Give you hubby one extra piece of chocolate! And, if you’re blessed to have both your parents, plan to have them over this weekend or do an extended Skype call. And, of course, do it all in mascara; just make sure it's make sure it's waterproof.

Pam's Pick 9.11.13 - Family Time, Stillness, Love, Making Memories

Pam's Pick: Alexandre Birman Python & Suede Pump, Fall 2013

Labor Day has come and gone, the crisp air has swept in, schools start on Monday (at least in NY), and Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York kicks off tomorrow. This can only mean one thing: Fall fashion is officially here, and with it comes layers, cozy sweaters, hints of suede, fur vests, felt hats, pantyhose and everything else I love about this glorious season. Oh, did I mention new shoes? Not that this is an excuse to skip your pedicure – Always Be Your Best You! – but, closed-toe, pointy shoes are hotter than ever. This trend has been brewing for about five seasons and this autumn, it’s exploding in every texture and heel height.

I’ve chosen this option from Alexandre Birman as my must-buy shoe for the season because it’s a classic you'll turn to for years to come, and yet it embodies all the key flavors of the season – lady-like heel height, pointy toe, contrast toe, animal print/skin and mixed materials. Also, Mr. Birman makes the most comfortable shoes imaginable. I can play tennis in them! 

Pam's Pick 9.5.13 - Alexandre Birman Python & Suede Pump

Pam's Pick: Michael Aram Enchanted Forest Candle Sticks

A journalism professor once told me, that you should always have one amazing line in your article that you absolutely refuse to edit. Well, I believe that tip applies to decorating your home. There should always be one piece that you absolutely have to have in your living space, regardless of the ebbs and flows of style or the physical location and size of your home. For me, that one piece is my Michael Aram Enchanted Forest candle sticks. I find myself moving them to new locations in my living/dining room depending on the season. Each migration gives them, and our home, new life. For the fall season, I've places them on a mirrored tray on top of my class coffee table.

What's your must-have décor item? Is it a new creation or a antique piece from your mother or grandmother? Leave me a comment below and let's talk home décor.

Pam's Pick: Rose Gold Double Snake Necklace ChiPeek.com

Accessories are the easiest way to take an outfit from special to spectacular, not to mention a fab option for busy moms – yes, I’m talking to you – who want to quickly jazz up a flowy white tank and linen shorts (my summer staples). Remember, NO EXCUSES! If you have the right assortment of accessories and plenty of basics, in your closet, you can get dressed in seconds – even when the baby is cooing, the nanny is running late and your husband is still in the shower. 

Rose gold being the metal du jour and snakes being the animal du jour of the year, I can’t get enough of this Double Snake Necklace. It’s from my favorite new jewelry website ChicPeek.com. Check it out.

Pam's Pick, ChicPeek.com Wildfox Double Snake Necklace, August 14, 2013

Pam's Pick: Elizabeth Daniel NY Shirts

This is absolutely, hands down, the best collared shirt I’ve ever owned! At $110-$138, Elizabeth Daniel NY shirts are worth every single penny. Comfortable for travel, ideal for layering under a dress to transition from summer to fall, amazing stretch when you’re pregnant, an easy go-to for running errands with the kids, yet dressy enough for work.  Forget about bunched fabric that rolls as you walk or is so thick it creates unnecessary lines. Products like this give busy moms like me absolutely no excuses for always being our best selves. Put on this shirt with a little rouge, and you’re good to go.

Pam's Pick: Elizabeth Daniel NY shirts, August 7, 2013



Pam's Pick: Elizabeth Daniel NY shirts, August 7, 2013

Originally, only available in black and white, I’m THRILLED Elizabeth Daniel NY added color to their collection. 

Pam's Pick: Thymes Kimono Rose Candle

Yes, I'm not sticking with my noon posting commitment, but if you ONLY knew the type of week I'm having ... Perhaps, someday, I'll be brave enough to share the story. For now, let me just share today's Pam's Pick, which is a perfect way to end an emotional, only-a-mother-could-understand day.

Candles are one of my favorite ways to calm down, because scents can transport your mind to that happy place - we all have that happy place, where no one can touch us. They are also an easy way to make your home feel like a luxury hotel or spa … something every mother needs. Thymes’ Kimono Rose is my current go-to scent. Prior to that, it was their Mandarin Coriander candle. This company just knows how to do fragrance right! Plus, there candles come in beautiful glass containers adding to that hotel feel.

Enjoy and relax!

PS Did I mention candles are also ideal for baby making? Proceed with caution … and/or protection!

Pam's Pick: Thymes Kimono Rose Candle, July 31, 2013

 

Pam's Pick: Mustela Post Partum Body Restructuring Gel

If you want to have a bum like a blessed supermodel or a bubbling teenager, RUN to the store and get Mustela's Post Partum Body Restructuring Gel. After the baby was born, my backside needed a massive face lift.  OK, to be really honest, it’s always had excess pot marks "like when you squeeze the bum" and you seek icky marks …. Ya, I had that! Two months of using this gel and what used to look like mars (overshare!) now looks marvelous! Don't get jealous, just buy this gel. You and yours will be very VERY happy with the results :). As always, there is a beautiful solution for every problem. You have no excuses to Always Be Your Best You - from the front AND the back!




Pam's Pick - July 24, 2013

Pam's Pick: Kiinde Kozii Baby Bottle Warmer

The last thing any parent wants to do at 2 am is think about warming up a bottle. Is it too hot, too cold? What about unfreezing stored milk?!?

Three months into my daughter’s life and I’m a little wiser and more prepared for number two++, thanks to the addition of the Kiinde Kozii on my kitchen counter top. Not only is this product the smartest bottle warmer on the market thanks to an easy-to-use water bath, it also features a sleek design. One thing all new parents hate is how their house gets taken over by baby products, which is why I shop for products that not only solve problems, but are aesthetically pleasing. If you’re a Kozii fan, leave a comment below. I’d love to hear from other moms.

Pam's Pick: C Wonder Dots Beach Ball

Can you get a good beach ball for $2? Probably. But, for $10 you can have this playful option from the always colorful and festive, C Wonder. Just this once, I wish my name was Carry, Cathy, Carolina, Carmen …

While shopping, check out C Wonder’s other beach essentials to have a matching good time.

Pam's Pick July 17, 2013 - C Wonder Dots Beach Ball

 

Pam's Pick: Launching Fabulous Weekly Finds Tested by Lifestyle Expert Pamela Pekerman

You're busy living your life with a Never Surrender attitude, and you need someone to find the fabulous goodies that ensure you tackle the world in Always-Be-Your-Best-You style. I'm at your service. Tune into my blog every Wednesday afternoon for Pam's Pick, an assortment of fashion, home décor, kids and lifestyle products that I've tried, tested, smelled, played with, attempted to break and then put back together. If I'm giving it a Pam's Pick stamp of approval, you can trust it's a quality item with the utmost attention to style and smart, easy living.

Lifestyle Expert Pamela Pekerman launches Pam's Pick, weekly stylish finds