Saturday, December 29, 2012

New Years Ancient Traditions and Modern Reflections

As 2012 draws to a close, I am letting out a sigh of relief, if nothing else, at least I survived the Mayan calendar.  But what is it about a new year that promotes a sense of optimism of the coming new year?    Maybe the new year means new beginnings, a chance to start over, make resolutions that will improve the new year.

Celebrating the new year is ancient tradition.  Four thousand years ago, the ancient Babylonians ushered in the new year with with the first new moon after the Vernal Equinox (the first day of Spring).  Those Babylonians knew how to party, their new years celebrations lasted for 11 days.  

In 153 BC The Romans declared the new year to be January 1.  The Romans marked the new year by decorating their homes with light and greenery.  They also exchanged gifts.  (sound familiar?)  These gifts were chosen for their luck-bringing properties, such as sweets or honey to ensure peace, gold, silver monetary presents to ensure prosperity, and lamps for a year filled with light. It was also the time of the year to expel the ills of the previous year, and establish a positive pattern for the new year. 

Celebrating the new year is an ancient tradition.  Although I don't think I will party like a Babylonian, I plan to celebrate the conclusion of 2012.  I think I will take a more Roman-esque approach, purge the ills of last year, and prepare for self-improvement this year. 

By the way, if anybody intends to follow the Roman tradition of gift-giving, I will gladly accept and appreciate gifts of gold and silver.

Heureuse Nouvelle Aannée mes amis!

Friday, December 7, 2012

'Tis the Season to have some fun!


Take a break from Christmas shopping and have some fun!

'Tis the Season!  

Follow this link to find Holiday events in Tampa Bay this weekend. 

There is something to do for everybody!



Sunday, November 18, 2012

When Black Friday Comes

I will be the first to admit I am not a fan of Black Friday shopping. I would rather spend the day after Thanksgiving blissfully eating leftovers and going in and out of a turkey coma. I may even rally at some point and attempt some sort of work out to wash away the guilt that almost always follows a holiday wholly devoted to overeating. 

My children are adults, so I don't have wake up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat wondering if I will ever to be able to find that one elusive toy or gadget that was on their Santa wish list. Thankfully, my children were not demanding spoiled little brats. I would not tolerate that type of attitude from my descendants. 

Ready or not, the Christmas season, or the time we celebrate Christ's birthday, which has been hijacked by rampant materialism is upon us. If you do insist on driving yourself mad and participating in the Black Friday mess, follow the link below for my Black Friday Survivlal Guide.

http://www.examiner.com/article/black-friday-survival-guide


I wrote this article a few years ago, but the advise is still good. Besides, I get about a penny for every hit on that blog, and well, it is Christmas and mama needs some new boots!

Happy Thanksgiving!  Make the most of the holiday. Enjoy time with your family and those who mean the most to you.

If you do insist on engaging in the Black Friday madness, remember your manners, and do try to be civilized. A little kindness goes a long way. 

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Let's keep Acid Washed Jeans in the Past

forever21.com
Somebody please tell me, are acid-washed denim jeans coming back?  And if so, why? 


I saw a girl wearing  acid-washed skinny jeans yesterday, and I was almost tempted to ask her if she was a victim of some unfortunate bleach-and-washing machine mishap.  But she was bigger than me, and I decided to consider her a misguided fashionista-wanna-be.  

When I got home I did a quick google search, and much to my horror, I believe acid washed jeans are back.


Come on, if we are really going bring back a fashion from the 80's can it please be big hair!  (That works for me)  What's next - mom jeans?

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Fall 2012 Fashion


It is that time to start thinking what we are going to wear this fall.  Blacks, bold blues and vibrant reds are what is trending from the runways for this fall.  


Cinched wastes are back again.  Black boots or dark leggings cover the leg.  My favorite new trend is long glove that stretch above the elbow because they always look elegant.  

To see four of my favorite designers looks Tory Burch, Carolina Herrera, Michael Kors, and Oscar de la Renta visit my Examiner article

photo credit:
http://collegecandy.com/2009/02/18/rock-the-look-fall-fashion-trends-courtesy-of-new-york-fashion-week/

Monday, August 6, 2012

Although I it may seem I have been neglecting this blog, I have been busy providing content for Examiner.com  Here are the links to my content.  

http://www.examiner.com/style-in-tampa-bay/jacquelyn-zalar

http://www.examiner.com/charity-106-in-tampa-bay/jacquelyn-zalar



Please follow me at Examiner.com

I also have a lot to say, and I will be continuing to publish here!  

Passez une bonne journée mes amis!


Friday, May 18, 2012

Black and White

I have to admit, I have become a little obsessed with redecorating using only black and white.  


I was first inspired by this color scheme when I was window shopping in Paris.  (Of course who wouldn't be inspired window-shopping in Paris)



And then I saw the same black and white color scheme used in Los Angeles. 


Since then, I have been window-shopping on the internet for inspiration on how to put together the perfect black and white room.


I want a mix of "Old Hollywood" with Victorian touches.
Like this chandelier...

...paired with this sofa, 


and maybe a nice chair


and footstool to complete the room.

Decisions, decisions.  I think it is may be time to redecorate.

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Is it safe to tan?

Being a Florida girl and a sun lover, I love to soak up as much sun as I can whenever I can.  But if you have been following my posts lately you will also notice that I have been very interested in keeping my skin young and healthy.  For any of you who is concerned about not only the youthful appearance, but the health of your skin, please read my article:


http://www.examiner.com/article/how-tan-is-too-tan


I sincerely hope you will find this information helpful, and it helps you to make the right decision about preserving the health and beauty of your skin.  



Sunday, May 6, 2012

J'aime Lancome

On March 8, I posted about a must-try product - Genifique.  After 2 months of using this product, I am in love with it.  In fact not only me, but my friends who I recommended the product to, are also in love with it.  


Last week I was visiting the Dillards during my lunch break and stumbled upon a sign that read "Gift of Paris".  How could I resist!  




I purchased lip stick and eye shadow and received good-sized samples of Visionnaire (advanced skin corrector), Bright Expert (dark spot corrector and radiance activator), Renergie (eye lift creme), lipstick, blush, and eyeliner.  


So far I love all of these products.  The eyeshadow is glittery, not frosty.  I chose a coral lip shade which is bright, but not sticky.  After only a few day, my skin looks wonderful.


I love these products, and want to pass along to my friends.  I am not getting paid for this endorsement, but if you are listening Lacome - I will be happy to accept payment!  

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Timeless

There are some women whose beauty transcends and inspires through the generations, their beauty is timeless.  


Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe defined sexy yet classy.  



Vivian Leigh
Vivian Leigh will always be known to me as Scarlet O'Hara, strong, beautiful, and a southern belle to the end.


Grace Kelly
Grace Kelly, the beautiful American actress who married a mysterious Prince from Monaco.  Classy and sophisticated.  


Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor and her amazing eyes is certainly one of the most beautiful women ever.






Thursday, March 8, 2012

A must-try product

I ran across a coupon for a free 7-day sample of Lacome's new skincare product Genifique. Since I am not one to pass up a good free-be, I figured "what the heck".  I printed out my coupon and made my way the nearest Lacome counter.   
I am on day 2 of using this product. Oh la la, my skin is tres bien!  
I am not getting a royalty for this post, although I wouldn't mind one, just sharing some good information with my friends and followers.  




Here is the link:

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Orange for Summertime

If you are looking for the latest trend in color - put some orange in your life!

It is so refreshing to see such bold use of color especially when fashion advise is often black is the new black, and black is slimming, and black is basic, yadee, yadee, yada. 

Orange is the color of summer.

Follow this link to read my article on Examiner.com to see the latest from the runway.

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Singing with the angels

She was beautiful, talented, and taken from us way too soon.  


We grew up listening to her crystal clear voice that could hit any note on the musical scale. Her voice was amazing and her talent inspired a generation.  It would seem that she had it all.  


We may never know or understand the personal demons she faced.


Rest in peace, Whitney Houston.  May you be singing with the angels in heaven.  

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Saturday

Having fun with  polyvore.com, I created a relaxed, casual outfit.  Saturday


Mango slimming dress
£40 - mango.com

Carvela brown boots
£99 - johnlewis.com

Body bag
£7 - peacocks.co.uk

ABS by Allen Schwartz gold tone jewelry
$150 - bloomingdales.com

Blue topaz cocktail ring
$179 - intermixonline.com

Jules Smith fringe earrings
£85 - flannelsfashion.com