Avoiding Identity Theft - Part II (A Must Read)

Bill Stanton looks a bit like a more rugged version of the actor Tony Danza, but he's no houseboy in an 80's sitcom. Bill Stanton is a bona-fide former NYCPD officer who is now a paid Security Consultant for NBC. He has made more than 54 Today Show appearances alone, let alone being featured on a wide variety of other television shows, showing people how easy it is to be duped, robbed or conned. He has demonstrated everything from how you can protect yourself against scams, to actually going undercover to show how easy it is to "steal" from your home. In addition, he has tackled some very grim topics such as how children don't always listen to safety information their parents give them, by showing parents how easily he could "con" their children.



But this otherwise affable, knowledgeable, and entertaining man, also known also as “Wild Bill," was the speaker at a seminar on Internet (and other) Security I attended yesterday, courtesy of STAPLES. Bill started the conversation with the assembled group of Editors by sharing a bit about how he found himself in his unusual business. Stanton was forced to leave the Police Department after a disabling accident, and pursued a number of other security-related jobs. After 9-11 he began working with a partner, then on his own in the security business.

After the introductions, the lessons began. For starters, he showed us a little video featuring himself and a garbage can on a City street, to show us how easy it is (in under three minutes) to dumpster dive into an unsuspecting person's trash, and acquire enough information in a flash, to assume their identity. The man on the video didn't look at all happy. Neither did the suddenly sober editors at the table. The good news is that you can help frustrate thieves who want your identity by shredding all mail and papers, and even computer disks, that may contain any personal information about you, your family, even your kids and pets. He directed our attention to some shredders that STAPLES carries, the Staples MailMate M3 Shredder $79.00 (it shreds up to a dozen sheets in a cross-cut pattern that makes it impossible to piece it back together), or the larger capacity Staples SPL-1070M 10-Sheet Micro Cut Shredder $199.98 (for small businesses or large families this is a good choice) or the even larger Staples 15-Sheet Micro Cut Shredder $299.99


From there he advised us about security at the workplace, for computers, and Internet Security. As Bill began to talk about all the things people do without thinking that could seriously jeopardize their identity and their belongings, we all got even quieter. He suggested that many people consider their offices an extension of their homes, leaving everything from personal bills, to their checkbooks and personal laptops open and available for virtually anyone and everyone to see (and perhaps, steal). In the photo, he is showing us a Targus DEFCON Combination Notebook Cable Look $32.48. "I walk my dog with this cable," Stanton joked. However, with over 10,000 user-settable combinations on the lock, and 6.5' of galvanized, vinyl-coated steel cable, this inexpensive cable lock could save you thousands in equipment that needs to be replaced, not to mention the loss of non-recoverable information on the hard drive (some of which might give identity thieves everything they need to know to assume your identity and steal your money). For that reason, it's also important to back up your hard drive. An inexpensive and super-easy way to back up documents is the SanDisk 2GB (there's a 4GB version too) Cruzer Professional USB Flash Drive Enhanced for Ready Boost $94.98. This easy to use USB memory flash drive can password protect an area for sensitive files, and it's made of metal, so it's sturdy. Just insert it into your USB port, and voila! Another option is a more traditional External Hard Drive Backup. STAPLES sells several, including the Maxtor 500GB OneTouch 4 Plus External Hard Drive $169.98 and a take-it-with-you Maxtor 120 GB OneTouch 4 Mini Hard Drive $99.98



The Internet is a facet of daily life we take for granted, but while we're typing away on our laptops in library, cyber cafes and airplanes, others can be looking over our shoulders. A simple solution is a DM 17" LCD Privacy Filter $125.99 that fits right over your computer monitor screen, to ensure that the on-screen data is visible only to the person sitting right in front of that monitor. It also helps reduce screen glare (good to know if you're taking the "office" to the pool). Bill also suggested a good anti-virus program as a must have. He likes Norton AntiVirus 2008 $39.99 or the more all inclusive Norton 360M $79.99. Keeping hackers and viruses out and away from your computer means additional security, not to mention sanity (especially if a bad virus gets onto your system).



When you leave checks, bills, and other statements or personal papers around, you never know who will find them and copy (or outright steal) them. "Don't leave your bills and checkbook in the office drawer" warned Bill, "and never ever leave anything in your car! " For home and office, Bill suggested a Fire-Proof, Waterproof Safe (STAPLES sells the Sentry Safe Fire-Safe Waterproof Security File H4300 $109.99 with a .68 cubic Ft. capacity, a waterproof seal, and a tubular key lock).

All of these items are a small investment that are an absolute must have to keep yourself self and not sorry. This is especially sobering when you consider that the experience is such a violation. Most victims never really recover completely. Every four seconds someone else becomes a victim, but even more shocking, only half the victims even know their identity has been taken from them. They only discover it when the evidence begins to pile up. Then it's too late. It can take years to reclaim theirown identity! Bill told us that thieves have gone as far as filling out change of address forms to steal someone else's mail and thereby get information they want....I mean, how low can you get?

Here are some other suggestions Bill shared that can help keep everyone in your family safe include (not in any order):

**never leave those magnetized card keys you get to open hotel room doors in the room or lying around. In many cases, enough personal information and credit card info is on them to give a thief a bonanza, in seconds.

**If you see something, say something! If that man lurking on a ladder in your neighbor's yard looks suspicious, don't keep it to yourself. Report it...the next time it could be your house under attack!

**Teach your children age appropriate behavior for dealing with strangers and reinforce it regularly. Also test them periodically so that if someone does try to hurt them, they will automatically know what to do, and follow through. Sometimes, being rude to an adult can be the right thing to do!

**check your credit report (at least one) at regular intervals. By doing so you can track any suspicious activity and take action before it's too late.

**don't let anyone get too close or look over your shoulder when you are keying in your password or codes, anywhere. And, clever thieves can even read your lips.

**don't give out personal information on the Internet or by phone unless you are sure you are speaking to a credible representative.

**don't open any Email from unknown senders. They are likely to be phishing schemes, or contain viruses.

**watch your credit card when you give it to sales clerks and wait staff. They can easily make a copy.

**don't own too many credit cards. They're not great for your credit rating, and they leave you much more open to more theft.

**be careful about what you put out there about yourself online, and especially in online auction and sales sites. The reputable, secure sites have a little "lock" or unbroken key logo, and the urls to the site will begin with "https://"

**change your passwords regularly, and use "real" passwords that are alpha-numeric (e.g. "8puPP!es3" instead of just "puppy."

In November of 2007, I attended another STAPLES-sponsored security event. At that event I learned that besides selling a wide variety of items every home and office needs to stay secure, STAPLES also has a quick, free Security Quiz you can take to see how safe you are right now, at: http://www.advicesisters.net/2007/11/avoiding-identity-theft

I took the test and didn't do badly the first time, but I have become even more vigilant about my personal security. When I took it again this week, I got a nearly perfect score. Try it yourself and you'll learn instantly where you may want to make some personal changes!

To purchase any of the items I've mentioned here, visit a STAPLES store or http://www.staples.com/

Guitar Shorty Conquers the Stage (and the Snow) at The Turning Point in Piermont, New York

The Turning Point Cafe in Piermont New York has a restaurant upstairs with good food at reasonable prices. However, the real attraction of this cafe/bar at 468 Piermont Ave. Piermont, N.Y. Voice: (845) 359-1089 Fax: (845) 359-3219 is downstairs...an intimate venue in which to experience great blues and jazz. In fact, there are 34 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame musicians that have played at the Turning Point: Charlie Thomas of the Drifters; Les Paul; Mick Taylor, David Thomas From the Kinks, Dave Davies, John Entwistle, Roger McGuinn, Gene Clark, Chris Hillman, Noel Redding, The Door's Robbie Krieger, Eric Burdon, Rick Danko, Levon Helm and Garth Hudson from The Band, the Grateful Dead's Vince Welnick and Tom Constanten, Jack Casady, Jorma Kaukonen, Marty Balin, Paul Kantner, John Cale from the Velvet Underground, Pete Seeger, Richie Furay From Buffalo Springfield, Bill Monroe, Michael Shrieve from Santana, Charles Brown, Bonnie Raitt , John Sebastian, Johnnie Johnson, Andy Summers, Traffic's Dave Mason and Jim Capaldi, Buddy Guy and Ronnie Spector. Check the web site today:
http://www.turningpointcafe.com/ and you'll see bands scheduled that are as varied as the The Persuasions, Marty Balin, The Chapin Sisters, and the Electric Prunes. There's a large, comfortable bar, and the rest of the downstairs features long tables, but the room isn't a concert hall, and no matter where you sit you are close to the musicians.



One of the greatest, not to mention hardest-working of the blues musicians is the legendary Guitar Shorty, who makes his way back to The Turning Point a few times a year to delight die-hard fans, and charm new ones. Throughout the years, Shorty's band has seen some changes. Since Shorty's latest album "We the People" was released, Shorty changed all of the band members and assembled new musicians with a more "Texas" sound, that infuses Shorty's blues songs with a different, but fresh, "Rockabilly/Austin " vibe. The band name: "We The People," coordinates with the album of the same name. That album won the 2007 Blues Music Award, for "Contemporary Blues Album of the Year." Shorty also won a Blues Music Award for an album he released while on tour in England called: "My Way Or The Highway." It won for "Contemporary Foreign Blues Album Of The Year" in 1990.



The "We the People" band is not just window dressing, they are serious, skilled, musicians in their own right. The talented keyboard player Matt Farrell (to the left in this photo) has now been with Shorty the longest. I remember his first concert with Shorty at the Turning Point a year ago. Matt was fairly new and was still finding his way a bit cautiously with his accompaniments. But at this most recent, early February 2008 concert at the Turning Point, the "McDreamy" keyboard player did a lively solo as part of the opening act, and continued to add complicated, complimentary background through the evening that really made Shorty's standards, even more exciting. Behind him (wearing the hat) is Sam Pemberton. He's an accomplished musician who effectively backs up Shorty's lead guitar.


Tall, lean, John Morris is fairly new with the band. I watched Shorty throw him a song he had obviously never played before and he picked it up without seemingly any nerves or difficulties. His base is a welcome addition to the overall sound. There's also a drummer, of course. I have seen several come and go in the past year. The one I heard at the Turning Point a few weeks ago is no longer with the band, and the newest (according to a phone call to Shorty after the concert) is Bruce Logan. I'll be eager to hear how he fits into the overall sound, next time Shorty's in town.



But the main man, the one the fans clamor to see, is Guitar Shorty himself. A living legend whose enthusiasm for hard-hitting blues and rock&blues is so powerful, once you've heard him you're hooked for life. He generally plays a variety of songs from the half dozen or so CDs he's made, including crowd-pleasing versions of "Hey Joe" and "the Star Spangled Banner," and one of my personal favorites :" I Wonder Who (is Sleeping in My Bed) which my friends and I call "the underwear song." In any case, Shorty doesn't just play songs, he puts his entire being into them. As a young showman he'd do backflips onstage (playing "The Thrill Is Gone" while spinning on his head won him first prize way-back-when, on the Gong Show). But today, Shorty still amuses with his antics as well as play amazing blues, backed up by a strong, gravelly voice that is distinctive for it's authentic intensity. Shorty plays every concert as if it's going to be his last, often playing for hours without a break. He's known for leaving the stage, going into the audience, and playing right in front of an amazed (and lucky) group of fans. And while Shorty doesn't do backflips anymore (I won't divulge his age, but he's old enough to know that keeping your bones in one piece is paramount), Guitar Shorty still.....

......dances .......rides his Guitar (called "Red")
..............plays the guitar in front of a fan, using just his mouth......





....and regardless of the weather, if the club's conditions are right, Shorty will not only leave the stage, he will leave the building, entirely, walking and playing his guitar. We have seen him walk around an entire building in a blinding snowstorm in New Jersey, dance with a woman outside the Turning Point at an earlier concert, and connect with two girls eating Ice Cream who just happened by on the street in New Hope.


During this recent concert at The Turning Point, Shorty left the building and ambled down the street, taking more than half the Turning Point Patrons with him, even though it was cold and there was snow and ice on the ground. We all followed him as if he were the Pied Piper, down the street...................to the local Police Station, where Shorty went inside and played in front of the intake clerk's window! ........................................ ............Then, out of range of his band (but still playing his Guitar) he headed back the street towards the Turning point.... went back inside, and finished his song!




Shorty always takes the time to connect with his audience not just through his incredible music, but in a personal way. He signs autographs and CDs, and even once signed my friend Howard's arm (wish I had a photo of that to include here)! Here, he's posing with former NFL Football player for the Seattle Seahawks, Carl Ditmars (who also happens to be my personal trainer, and since that night, a true, new Guitar Shorty fan).



To learn more about Guitar Shorty and see where he's playing next on tour, visit http://www.guitarshorty.com/ . To buy CDs and other "Shorty Stuff," and listen to clips from his album "We the People" visit: (http://www.guitarshorty.com/store.html


....filed by Alison Blackman Dunham on 2/28/08

AdviceSisters Beauty Product of the Week - St. Ives offers new Sun Protection for the Vigilant, the Lazy, and even the Reluctant!

It's not quite Summer yet, but the days are getting longer, and the sun, a bit brighter, and anyone who reads my What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion Review Columns (online for a decade this year) knows that I believe protecting your skin against the sun's damaging rays every single days is an absolute must. Doing so at an early age can help prevent the signs of premature aging. A skin cancer the size of a dime can kill you, so protecting your skin with sunblocks can also potentially save your life as well. But what you can't see is something many people feel they can ignore. Such is the problem with the sun's UVA/UVB rays. Unless you get a sunburn (and by then the damage is done) you don't really know they're out there, sabotaging your skin. Furthermore, most people simply don't want to put out the extra effort to add a sunblock to their skincare routine, or they don't like the smell, the texture or myriad other things.

A product just arrived for review in my next What Works Beauty, Cosmetics and Fashion Review Column that addresses this problem, and I simply can't wait for May/June to review it *the March/April "What Works" review column is live at the end of this week at http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html . So I'm making it the PRODUCT OF THE WEEK in this blog, so you can learn about it and get it now.

What is this special product? It's not only interesting, it's really inexpensive. The product is the Elements Protective Cleanser $6.99 4 fl. oz by St. Ives. A cheerful yellow bottle with frosted pump top holds a cleanser that multi-tasks to also provide SPF protection (SPF 10) as you wash. Key ingredients are avobenzone (oil-soluable ingredient used in sunscreens to absorb the full spectrum of UVA rays); octinoxate (compound that absorbs UVB rays); octocrylene (aborbs ultraviolet ligh); and Vitamin E (anti-oxidant). The slightly fruity scented cleanser is more like a very creamy lotion that you are supposed to massage it into your face for 1-2 minutes (it isn't clear if you get more effective SPF protection if you work in into your skin longer but it would make sense) and then wash it off. The sunscreens in this product are encapsulated into a positively-charged silica shell so it sticks to your skin, which is negatively charged, and it won't rinse off. The product did clean leftover makeup and dirt off our skin, of course. But they key is what it leaves ON your skin. When I tried this one, after drying my face there was a feeling of a light coating on my skin. This, I assume, is the sun protection...and I didn't have to do a single extra thing to get it!'

The downside, if there is one, is that SPF 10 is at best, marginal sun protection which isn't meant to protect you against a full day of sun exposure (like the skin you get while spending a day at the beach). However, since incremental (every day) type sun exposure (the type you get just walking around doing errands or stepping out for lunch) accounts for 80% of sun damage over a lifetime, it's a good thing to protect yourself every which way you can.

The press literature claims that the microencapsulated sun screen in St. Ives Protective Cleanser blocks 90% of UVA/UVB rays, but even so, it is important to note you still need a decent sunblock with SPF 15 or higher, if you are planning to anything more than walk from your house to your car in the driveway. Layering products with SPF can help as well, so this one will be even more effective if you cleanse with this product and then layer other products with higher SPF in them such as moisturizers or foundation (or better still, a dedicated sunblock).

The real benefit to this product (as I see it) is that it forces you to add at least some protection to your skincare routine with no excuses, no effort, and virtually no expense. If you are the type of person who absolutely refuses to use sunscreen on a daily basis (or you have children or spouses who don't use it regularly) this product could be the breakthrough you are seeking...and at an amazingly low price!

The product will be available beginning March 2008 at drug, mass retailer, and grocery store outlets. Visit http://www.stives.com/ for more info!

Crazy About Jewelry

When I heard the title of this book, I thought...this is the book for me as I adore jewels both real and faux. Crazy About Jewelry! $16.95 by jewelry appraiser Susan Eisen, provides the answers you are seeking if what you want to know is about acquiring, organizing, re-doing, and eventually, getting rid of jewelry. Do you have something you no longer love? Did you get granny's wedding ring and you can't figure out how to actually wear it? Hoping to learn more about collecting? Although the information Susan offers may seem elementary to real jewelry collectors, her suggestions are mostly are common-sense and useful. You are sure to find at least one or two ideas you haven't thought of before that will help you to enjoy the jewelry you have, and make wise choices in the future. Ms. Eisen's tips on organizing, cleaning, storing, and taking care of your collection are particularly helpful, especially if you have lots and lots of jewelry. Ms. Eisen has her own web site/blog http://www.susaneisen.com/where you can ask questions, too. Costume or real, buying or wishing to sell stuff, the book is worth a read (and we dig the little pink "jewel" on the cover.




*This is a preview of a book review that will appear in the Advice Sisters What Works March/April 2008 Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion Review column at http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html beginning next week.

I have also posted the same review on the Advice Sisters Bulletin Boards under the Book Review Bulletin Board in the hopes that you'll go and visit, leave a comment or two, suggest a book, promote your own, and help us create virtual "book club" where we can discuss great books we love. So pony up a review, or at least a comment? I'd be grateful to know I'm not just alone on there with my own thoughts. ]

....and, if you want to read at least 10 more new book reviews of brand new books, feel free to sign up for the free, by-subscription only, bi-monthly AdviceSisters Enews at: http://www.advicesisters.net/thankyou.html. Sign up now and you'll get the March 2008 issue, with book reviews on love, sex, death, and other interesting topics you may want to know about--Alison

A Fall Makeup Look to Love, Now

Beauty.com celebrity makeup artist Tina Turnbow created the following look for the Lela Rose runway show The designer wanted the beauty look for her collection to be “Jerry Hall meets Park Ave.” Tina chose a teal liner and smudged it around the eyes for a classic look.




. The look is modern, but a refreshing change from the overly-dramatic eyes and lips I saw so much of for Fall, 2008 during Fashion Week earlier this month. This is a look you can love now, and keep into next year! I thought you might like to see it:



Products Used (all NARS Cosmetics)"

Face: Concealer, Foundation, Dolce Vita Blush

Eyes: Kaliste (Teal) Liner, Lili Marlene Single Cream Eyeshadow, Mascara

Lips: Risky Business Lip Gloss, Greek Holiday Lip Gloss

Win Champion Sports Wear Worth over $200--only two weeks left!

ONLY TWO WEEKS LEFT --MARCH 1, 2008, TO ENTER THE ADVICE SISTERS "WHAT'S YOUR NEW YEARS RESOLUTION?" CONTEST AND WIN CHAMPION SPORTSWEAR WORTH OVER $200: ENTER NOW AT: http://www.advicesisters.net/newyearscontest.html

If you don't care for contests, or it's too late to enter the Advice Sisters' What's Your New #1 New Years Resolution? Contest, or you aren't the lucky winner over over $2oo worth of sports wear from Champion, including a women's Super Hoodie, Sports Pant, and Sports Bra, plus a Men's Hoodie (worth over $200), you can still get these items for yourself at: http://www.championusa.com/.

Here's my review of the Champion Sports Wear Products in the Advice Sisters Contest:

The Women's Super Hood $49.99 is my favorite piece. It offers warmth from those chilly early morning/late night walks, but won't make you look like the Stay-Puff Marshmallow Man (or woman). The zip-up jacket has a rugged zipper and is cut in a figure-flattering style, featuring 11-oz. 80% cotton/20% polyester fleece (and cotton/spandex rib trim). Other designer details that make the difference include roomy kangaroo pockets to keep hands warm, and a generously-sized hood with adjustable draw cord. the quality is super-high--it won't shrink or fade (mine is getting even softer and more comfy with laundering), so your investment will pay dividends for a long, long time. Choose light pink, red, light grey, white, retro green, or light blue. The men's hoodie has similar attributs, and comes in black, white, navy, scarlet, oxford grey, muscadine, urban gold, seaweed, deep garnet, wild lime, persimmon, camo, harvest pumpkin, java, dark borwn, dove grey and giants royal...a lot of colors for one little garment!

Of course, if you're going to exercise in style, you want an outfit to wear under that nifty jacket. The Champion® O2Cool™ Sports Bra $36.00 is one of the most comfortable sports bras I've ever tried. It has moisture-wicking fabric with strategic mesh panels to provide cool ventilation just where you need it most: under arms, at neck, and at back. The bra is supportive, but it isn't so constrictive that you can't breathe or move in it. Even better, the soft but supportive front lining has anti-microbial finish, to help control garment odors. You'll feel immediately slimmer, even before you hit the gym, with aerodynamic seams that visually slim your look. And, this high-performance bra comes in "girly" shades of turquoise, purplish-pink, light pink, yellow, white and black. Pair the bra and hoodie with a great pair of sports pants. A great choice is the Champion Women's Flare Pants $30.00 . A contrast-trimmed crossover waist provides a gentle fit that won't make you tug to keep the pants where you want them. The stylist, boot-cut legs slide right over athletic shoes. Like the bra, these may be the most comfortable sports pants I've ever tried, with a composition of 58% cotton/38% polyester/4% Lycra® spandex).

FYI: The AdviceSisters has received a huge response to this contest so far. In case you're wondering, more than 75% of the "resolutions" for 2008 have been to "lose weight" or "eat healtheir" or "get in shape" or all three! Other popular answers have been to "get organized," "spend more time with my kids," " be more charitable" and "make more money."

WE WILL BE PICKING THE WINNER ON MERIT--YOUR NEW YEARS RESOLUTION COULD MAKE YOU THE WINNER! Enter the AdviceSisters contest until March 1, 2008 --get details and the link to the contest entry form at: http://www.advicesisters.net/newyearscontest.html, Shop the Champion Catalogue online at: http://www.championcatalog.com/

10 Top Things I'll Remember About Mercedes Benz Fall 2008 Fashion Week

When I'm standing in line for my press credentials the day before Fashion Week starts, I always wonder what the week will bring. Here are the things I'll most remember about Mercedes Benz Fall Fashion Week 2008 in Bryant Park, New York City (not in any particular order):

...being backstage and learning the latest tips and technique from the best hair, nail and makeup pros in the world.

...seeing and talking to the models both offstage and on the runway

....running into old and new friends!

....being backstage and seeing the best designers in the world, in person!

...seeing their designs before they even go out on the runway!

....being part of the style community

...having Jay McCarroll from Project Runway fame literally stop his conversation to tell me he loved my mustard-colored coat and that I was absolutely in fashion for Fall!

...enjoying the lovely designer and model Esther Nash's outfits all week long, and her glittering variety of Judith Ripka jewelry that made her one of the most eye-catching women in the front row(s)!

...the less than glamorous press room where I spent a LOT of time sitting on the floor because there are only a few seats and it's not a real lounge.

...and finally, just being fortunate enough to be part of the scene (here, on the runway at Carmen Marc Valvo)

I am a freelance writer and creator of the AdviceSisters Web Site . If you like my work, if you'd like me to work for you, and/or if you'd like permission to reprint any of the content on this blog, please contact advicesisters(at)advicesisters(dot)net. You may also LINK to this post, but kindly refrain from using my content or photos without written permission. All text and photos © 2008 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark.

Zang Toi--Last Show of Fall Fashion Week 2008

Slippery, faux snow lined the runway for this last collection to be shown for the Mercedes Benz NYC Fall 2008 Fashion Week. And, this show, the Zang Toi runway show, was really one of the most interesting of the entire week. It had a bit of everything I've been seeing on runways all week: slick hair in buns, red lips, funky dresses, elegant gowns, quirky details...but definitely a signature, rock star style. The program notes from the House of Toi stated that the collection was: "inspired by the grand lifestyle at The Point in the Adirondacks, where magnificent and sumptuous log cabins were built by William Avery Rockefeller that personified the romantic notion of "roughing it" in luxurious and glamorous style. "
There really was something for everyone, from fun and funky coats and parkas trimmed with Mongolian Lamb collars, made a bit disturbing with the addition of large, dark, ski goggles, to heart-stopping, amazingly elegant, 20's-style silky evening gowns with gorgeous, drape-y, low backs. Some of these merely dipped daringly low, and some were also festooned with "back necklaces" of glittering crystals. There were elegant wools, such as this not-quite-a-day-dress worn with a drape of fur, to a number of designs for fahionable men who want to be luxurious and elegant. This sexy, black velvet suit was a good example.

Although Sean Jean was still to present at Cipriani, this was the last actual show at the Bryant Park tents--at least for this season. The A-listers are ushered quietly in and out, but for the majority of show-goers it had been a long week lugging coats and bags, and standing and waiting on tired feet. The events were winding down, and wearing people out, and on the line, civility was beginning to wane and tempers were beginning to rise. Still, the sheer number of people hoping to get into this last show was astounding. The assumed risers were packed with photographers, and the line of guests waiting to get into the show was very long (and eager to move forward into the Promenade).

Finally, everyone was in and seated. Was it worth the wait? Definitely! While "American" songs such as the Guess Who's "American Woman" formed a heavy beat, the models walked ever-so-purposefully and slowly down the runway, giving guest a chance to see each luxurious detail. The clothes, although alluding to weekends in the country and the gerat outdoors, was hardly "roughwear." The fabrics included plenty of cashmere, fur (Russian Sable and Mink, mostly) and oversized accessories such as the black leather handbag worn worn with a mink coat.

The styles included a bit of everything, but my favorite was the "Infanta Style" red and black evening dress that was full, glittering and gorgeous. Another ballgown that was a true show stopper was the final of 37 looks -- a very full skirted, pure white Princess gown described as: "Portrait of an Adirondack Star.' That would be celestrial star, not celebrity star, as the heavily collared neck was created of glittering crystals almost as blinding as a real star in the heavens. Other standouts were the draped, one-shoulder gowns, and and compellingly expensive-looking daywear that struck a positive chord with the crowd, too. I loved the hair-- a kooky bun created by Eiji Salon pairing three "Princess Leia" style "faux" buns wrapped around a sleek, real one. Manicures were courtesy of J. Sisters, Make-up by the charming Rudy Miles and team. More flash was generated from still cameras at this show than nearly any other.

Immediately after the show, the crowd was quickly directed out of the tent. Even the port-o-sans were closed. The lobby displays, dark. "Show's over, bathroom's are closed, please leave the tent" directed the security guards. This view of the main portal to the tent is what I saw first every day of Mercedes Benz Fall 2008 Fashion Week. By the time I left after Zang Toi's show, night had already fallen and the facade was bathed in twilight.

The show is over, until next season.

...I hope you have enjoyed the AdviceSisters fashion week coverage. Please leave comments! And, as a reminder: Feel free to LINK to this post, but do not take anything you see on this blog or spidered by search engines without written permission. All text and photos © 2008 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. For permission to use this content, please contact advicesisters(at)advicesisters(dot)net

Carmen Marc Valvo-Ready for the Red Carpet

I have had the pleasure of reviewing Carmen Marc Valvo's last five Fashion Week collections, and I've had the good fortunate to have been invited backstage for most of them. This has given me an opportunity to see the designer's fashion in an up-close-and-personal way, and to appreciate the artistry and care that goes into each and every one of these special event and "red carpet ready" pieces.


Before a runway show can be ready for the spotlight, the models must be transformed by hair, nails and makeup. For hair, lead hair stylist Odile Gilbert for Redken 5th Avenue gave a two word answer when I asked her the vision for this season's show. She said: "chic and simple." The elegant, braided bun she created looks to be part Heidi, part Helmut Newton, part Robert Palmer Girl . I've seen so many sleek buns this week, and this one was no exception -- super-sleek and shiny, flat against the head in the front, and with all the interest and texture in the back. This type of style focuses all the attention on your face and gown as you walk into the room, but when you walk away, the elegant twists and updos of your hair gives an interesting view, and it can stand up well to this season's plunging and draped backlines.


For Carmen Marc Valvo's show, the model's hair was smoothed with Redken #16 Hardware, a super-strong gel that adds control and lots of shine. In some cases, extra help to straighten and smooth hair was given with a glamorous new flat iron by Linea Pro that was ready for it's own closeup, completely studded completely with glittering, Swarovski Crystals. After hair was smoothed, put into a ponytail, and made into two braids, it was twisted and held in a braided "bun" thanks to a hidden barette. Finally, lots of Redken Workforce #09 working spray and also Force Field# 23 (the strongest holding spray Redken makes) were added as necessary. TIP TO DO-IT-YOURSELF-ERS: Odile has often told me that truly polished updos and chignons really require a good stylist (and at least an extra pair of hands). You can approximate the style with the Redken products I've described...if it's not as neat and slick as the ones Odile created for the show, well....a slightly less perfect style is also a fashionable for Fall, so you'll be fine!



Here is model Katie in finished hair (from the front) and the eye-catching makeup look. I spoke to John Stapleton, Senior Artist for the MAC Pro Team about the makeup. As you can see, this look is all about the lips. The face is matte (or at least powdered as a finishing touch), and the eyes are lightly done, as are the brows. But the lipstick is a magenta red (Russian Red) that is so vibrant and strong, you can't help but stare at the model's lips. FOR DO IT YOURSELF-RS: This blue-based red color might not work well with everyone's skin tone. John Stapleton suggests that women pick a red lipstick for Fall, but get the one that is best for them. Use a pencil to line, color in the lips, and then fill in with your new, red lipstick. He also urges women to try different versions of red instead of leaving the decision to the makeup artist at the counter, because everyone's vision of what "red" is, can be very different. Once you have found your perfect red you can and will wear this bold color with confidence! He also urges women to ask questions at the makeup counter, and ask for a hand mirror so you can see the makeup artist applying the colors....if you don't, you will not be able to re-create the look as well, at home.


Patent Leather was the Creative Nail Design polish used for this show. You can get this one, right now!

A designer doesn't just create a collection, he has to be able to talk comfortably about his or her vision to the press. Here's the designer, Carmen Marc Valvo, giving one of many interviews before his runway show begins. I always wonder how designers manage to stay so cool and calm before a show, while everyone else around is creating mini-mayhem!

Models always look calm and collected, but they get nervous too. Almost every model I've ever asked has told me she is most afraid of falling on the catwalk. With the sky-high stilettos and huge, chunky shoes so popular with designers, it's probably a valid fear! This is the view of the runway the models see before they step out on the catwalk, but of course, when they do, every single seat will be filled.

This season featured fur, feathers (ostriches and pheasants, and even on evening pumps--these by Carmen Marc Valvo), and lots of fabulousness for his high profile clients. But the gowns were less glittery in terms of sequins, rhinestones and beads, and got their glamour instead from lace, fur, feathers, and beautifully-constructed details such as a crisp cascades of ruffles --doesn't it look like a black bird of paradise flower? . There was also a lot of illusion netting to add a sexy and glamorous lingerie touch to the bodice, and elegant, draping, too. And, when it comes to accessories, Carmen Marc Valvo included many details, including long gloves, feather-trimmed cloches with wide brims that were worn even with evening gowns, as were some items from his new eyeglass collection. The red specs worn with a red evening gown had myopic ladies, silently cheering from their seats. Could four eyes be more chic than two, this year?




The tent is very dark and if you're not one of the A-listers sitting close to the catwalk, photography can be challenging. Here are two of my personal photos. ,The white gown on the model in the photo below to the right, had the most amazing strapless treatment, with a stiff ruffle on the front that looked like a small dove with one outstretched wing reaching out from the gown in a demure wave.

Celebrities crowded the backstage, and these ladies are wearing....Carmen Marc Valvo (what else?)! After the show model Katie, posed in a midnight satin black crepe tuxedo pantsuit with a midnight corset top from Carmen Marc Valvo's glam new line of lingerie with Cosabella. She patiently allowed a persistant photographer to take photos after the show...over, and over and over...he couldn't seem to get enough shots.

Feel free to LINK to this post, but do not take anything you see on this blog or spidered by search engines without written permission. All text and photos © 2008 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. For permission to use this content, please contact advicesisters(at)advicesisters(dot)net

Witty Willow!

Australian designer Kit Willow certainly can wear her own funky and youthful fashions. At her own show for Fall 2008, she wore a simple, navy dress with a bright green scarf. Her sassy designs for Fall 2008 are anything but simple--they're artfully expensive--meant for young ladies who can afford luxury and craftsmanship but definitely do not want to dress in their mother's designer duds.


Willow paired "Newton-esque," thigh-high, stiletto leather boots with just about everything, even satiny, strapless, corseted, studded, and laced-up "party" dresses. And, with shoes, the opaque tights that have paraded down runways all week long. These give a lolng, lean look to legs, so that's a plus for those who want to wear short hemlines but have less than great looking gams. The fitted leather jackets with punk rock style, the laces and studs looked a bit rough and "rocker chick" but yet, still very feminine. And, there was a profusion of pleaing, beautifully-tailored separates and dresses that looked expensive, fresh and modern. I particularly liked the copper-studded dresses in Autumnal copper, and also this dress in bright, burnt orange. And, the loose but beautifully-fitted pants wide hems almost wide enough to be Palazzo pants were as elegant as Katherine Hepburn's in the 40's. . Some of my favorite styles were satiny, modestly to-the-knee dresses with twisted bodices that reminded me of artfully wrapped gift boxes.
Hair was created by Remya Xydis for GHD and consisted of a sleek, mid-high ponytail for most of the models, a sleek bob or short style for the others. The very talented makeup artist, Ayako, created the makeup for NARS. Creative nail Design did the manicures.

After the Willow show ended, I spied Esther and Shelly Nash in the front row, and they posed for this photo. Esther and Shelly have been at many shows this season, and are quite popular with the paparazzi.

Feel free to LINK to this post, but do not take anything you see on this blog or spidered by search engines without written permission. All text and photos © 2008 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. For permission to use this content, please contact advicesisters(at)advicesisters(dot)net

Reem Acra's Red Carpet Gowns to Relish!

Back in December 2007, I attended Reem Acra's Fall Preview. As with the Spring 2007 collection last season, the emphasis was on the waist, with graceful, flowing, drape-y skirts that make any woman look elegant and "willowy." The program notes reflect the understated elegance of Reem Acra's designs: "the collection represents confidence, modern luxury, and a global sense of belonging." At this Fashion Week, Reem Acra's Fall 2008 collection collection included lots of rich, jewel-toned colors including, mustard, forest green, gold, metallic, grey, chocolate, and a lot of purples (aubergine and purple) and a lot of black plus midnight blue (which looks almost black--but more modern). Silkworms might be wary around Reem Acra--as her beautiful collection for Fall 2008 showcased lots of silk in various, pretty forms: silk taffeta, silk charmeuse, double-faced silk, silk satin, silk with sequins, silk chiffon, and a bit of chinchilla, felt, wood, and metallic fabric. There were one-shoulder, Grecian inspired gowns, coppery silky gowns, a beautiful coat with square metallic studs, and even a tailored evening suit with additional glamour stemming from the shimmery, metallic fabric. These are elegant gowns that will suit women of all personalities. Two of my favorite looks from the collection include this Chinchilla capelet over a wool sheath dress in antique silver, and an elegant silk dress that reminded me a bit of something "Jessica" in who killed Roger Rabbit would wear...elegant, sexy, and showing plenty of curves and leg.

Nails were by Creative Nail Design, the manicurists of the runways this week. Makeup by Polly Osmond for MAC Cosmetics featured dark (but not black) simmering eyes and matte skin. The hair, by Gavin Harwin, featured a textured, long flowing look that is sleek on top, textured on the sides and back to make hair interesting, not just "hanging." This look has been very popular
in many shows this week . At the end of the show, Reem Acra arrived on the runway, beaming, and carrying her adorable, fluffy, little white dog...the perfect accessory for a perfect designer!

Feel free to LINK to this post, but do not take anything you see on this blog or spidered by search engines without written permission. All text and photos © 2008 all rights reserved by Alison Blackman Dunham of THE ADVICE SISTERS® The Advice Sisters is a registered United States trademark. For permission to use this content, please contact advicesisters(at)advicesisters(dot)net

Sensational Cynthia Rowley's Pop Up Book FairyTale Forest Runway Show

Cynthia Rowley's creative, carefree and clever shows never disappoint. To create the enchanted forest/fairytale chidlren's pop-up book look that complimented the Fall 2008 clothes in Rowley's collection, the hair and makeup had to be perfect. Luckily, Avon products created both the hair look and the fantasy makeup.


In order to get the enchanting, "big hair" look for this show, it's important to start with clean hair, using Avon Advanced Techniques Body Building Shampoo and Conditioner. Lead stylist Diego DiSilva and his team also used Avon Advanced Techniques volumizing mousse, and depending upon the texture and needs of each model's hair, they used Avon Advanced Techniques Super Straight Smoothing Balm (for high speed conditioning and smoothing), Straight & Sleek serum, Anti Frizz Capsules, Mirror Shine Spray (for some glow and shine) and some Avon Advanced Techniques Extra Strong Hold Hair Spray. After smoothing the hair, it was crimed with an iron, and then the underneath layers were teased quite a bit hair with a rat tail comb. The top, however, was flat and smooth, and the top layer of hair was smoothed over the ratted, crimped hair. The texture hair was light and airy, full and flowing. The look literally floated down the runway.

Makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury created the makeup look for Avon and Cynthia Rowley. The vision was a fairy playing in the snow, so to create a fresh look with flushed (stained) cheeks, three colors of Avon Be Blushed Cheek Colour--a creamy blush stick--was used. Polly mixed pink orange, and nude, and blended the colors very, very well. As if to multi-task, the same mixture was used on the lips (plus a bit of berry added to the center to give lips a bit of a stained quality as well). The eyes were treated to several coats of Avon Supershock Mascara in "Black" on the top lashes, but no mascara was applied on the bottom. Lids were treated simply, with a coat of Avon Glazewear Liquid Lip Colour in "Clear" applied for shine (lip gloss was also used at the Ports1961 show, but with a shiny plastic overlay that glittered on the catwalk). Of course, Glazewear is usually worn on the lips, and it's a perfectly lovely product for that purpose, too! The face was kept was very matte, with lots of creamy foundation. The overall look was fresh and youthful, a bit bright, but also a bit magical.

It's always hectic backstage at the beautiful, Gotham Hall, but Cynthia not only has to oversee everything that's going on with her staff, she also gives interviews. The first one she gave was to Patrick McMullen--and in this photos they're sharing a laugh. And, of course, it's important to pose with celebrities. It's amazing how cool, calm and collected the designers look on the outside...and I always wonder if they're feeling the same, on the inside.

It is challenging to take photographs in Gotham Hall during a runway show. But even from my vantage point I could see, in the show's first moments...a surprise! The front of the backdrop fell forward onto the stage as if it was the cover of a book, revealing a 3D "pop up" enchanted forest like a giant child's picture book come to life! Through this forest, the models walked...hair literally floating behind them in a gentle cloud. However whimsical the backdrop, the clothes were less "girly", and certainly more austere than her usual. There was some fur, some rich fabrics, some embroidery, and some cute applique that somewhat mirrored the fanciful runway backdrop, but everything was in somber tones of grey, black, deep gold, blue, and deep plum. And, although I saw plenty of micro minis earlier in the week, Rowley's characteristically body conscious and mini-sized skirts were nowhere to be seen. Rowley has said (and everyone knows) that when the economy is good, hemlines go up, but a longer length is the barometer of a down economy.

Here's Cynthia a few minutes after her show...obviously relieved and happy! Another fantastic season will be here soon, and Cynthia Rowley's clothes will delight women once again. She has a knack for knowing what women, especially young, stylish women, want and she makes it accessible. Who wouldn't want to be a Cynthia Rowley fan?

Elegant, Sophisticated Beauty-Bill Blass

Last Night, I saw Peter Som at the American Express Cardmembers only show, in which he previewed his Spring 2008 and Fall 2008 collections. But this morning, Mr. Som was back at the tents, hard at work backstage in Bryant Park, getting ready for his first show for Bill Blass.


The Creative Nail Design team were already hard at work when I arrived, adding a brown/burguny shimmer polish called "Baroque" (you can get it now if you like) to both fingers AND toes of the model. This color is elegant enough to stand up to the strong, architectual, and sophisticated designs of the clothes, and complimented the colors. The toes were also painted, explained Cherie from Creative Nail Design, because the models were wearing sheer stockings and chunky sandals and peep-toe shoes by Christian Lamboutin for Bill Blass. The bold burgundy nail color looked beautiful on the runway and especially with these shoes.

I asked: what can my readers do to make nails new, this Fall? Cherie replied that the trend is still for very strong hits of color, like burgundy or deep plum, or dark blue. As with last year, these are going to stay in style (but many are super-metallic instead shimmery or glittery). You can also make your nail polish look new by coordinating the color of polish with an element in your outfit. For example, if you're wearing a hot pink belt, make your polish, match. But don't overdo....blue from head to tips of your toes, for example, is just TOO much!

Tom Pecheux was working his makeup magic with the MAC Pro Team. Although I didn't have an interview set up with him, he saw me scribbling madly on my pad, and gave me a few minutes of his time to talk about the makeup. When I asked what the vision was for the makeup he without hesitation replied: GLAM ROCK." But then the charming makeup artist added: "More glam than rock." For Bill blass, as with many shows this season, you've got to treat your skin to a light, matte finish. And, the emphsis is still on the eyes.Tom used lots of mascara, false lashes, and an intense colored blush in plum with a mix of pink and orange thown in. Interestingly, there was just a nude lip --the effect was that you couldn't help but stare into the model's eyes and barely notice anything else. When I suggested to Tom that he really had a way with words he said..."I'm French!" I guess that says it all.

EugeneSouleiman created the hair look. This slick, severe bun was reminiscent of a modern Robert Palmer Girl. The slicked back bun was severe, but the little twist on the side made it a bit funkier and more feminine. You can do a similar style yourself, by keeping hair sleek, maybe in a pontail instead of a perfect bun, but twisted one piece of hair to the side and then re-incorporating it into the finished look.

The idea, according to Eugene (in the hat), was to make a style that showed a strong, maybe somewhat cold woman on the surface, but underneath burns a warm heart. A woman who lived in France and is now transplanted to NYC...chic, maybe a bit cold, but a woman underneath the surface. As I've heard many times this week from the stylists, CLEAN is the word to describe the hair looks for fall. Eugene used products from GHD, including an amazing hot iron with triple-dipped plates for ultimate control and even heating. When I asked Eugene what trends he'd suggest for Fall, he immediately said "I don't believe in trends." Individuality, what works for you and what makes you look good, is always in. A good stylist helps you discover what really looks good, and not just what everyone is wearing. This man is a GOOD stylist!



It was getting pretty crowded backstage, so I wandered up to the racks of clothes, just to take in a few details. The models, the lights, the music...it all look so wonderful on the runway, but when you look at just the clothes without models, lights, or music, you realize that each is a little work works art--a work of art meant to be worn by a discerning clientele. If you can't afford a Bill Blass original, you can still take away some design elements from the collection. FOR DO IT YOURSELF-ERS. This slinky blue evening gown was wrapped around the waist with a black, velvet ribbon belt --try a velvet ribbon as a belt or around your neck to freshen up last year's party dress. Features (ostrich, in particular) and fur (faux or otherwise) are big for Fall. Festoon a substantial cardigan like the grey one in the photo with either to dress up any outfit, especially eveningwear. Also try wearing luxurious hats and gloves to "citify" your outfits. The ones in this show were gloves by Lacrasia, hats by (the often daring) Philip Treacy.

The photographers and TV crews were beginning to close in, but Peter Som still kept his cool, looking young, fresh, and happy and not the least bit worried about his collection. Of course, he wasn'it worried--it was amazing! The clothes were modern, unique, strong and architectural in feeling, beautifully cut and tailored, but still, meant for a beautiful woman. While Som's own collections are sophisticatedm they are also approachable and within reach of working women. This collection, his first collection with Bill Blass, is statment dressing, Alas, fashion is still a class society and these clothes announce it. The strong, almost masculine designs of this collection simply say "upper class." They drape and form around a woman's body like expensive clothes for discerning women (not girls) do. The slender evening gowns and tailored daywear are wildly compelling, but not cuddly or cute. This is attractive power dressing in the way a woman dreams to look -- it's not a young girl's "pretty." I actually can't imagine a woman crying and/or having a hissy fit in these clothes...she would simply be too chic, too collected, too cool to do so.

This card, situated right outside of the catwalk entrance, shows all of the looks!

A-listers slowly filled their seats in the large tent venue, including Roll Call: Tinsley Mortimer (the only one I really could see and recognize) is in this photo in the green. Also there were Jamee Gregory, Adelina Wong Ettelson, Helen Schifter, Nina Garcia, Gilles Bensimon, and Linda Fargo. Anna Wintour was supposedly there too, supposedly...who could find anyone in the crush of people schmoozing and photographing others on the runway before and after the show?