Give Arbonne This Mother's Day

Need a fabulous gift idea for Mother's Day (May 9th)? Of course you do! Surprise her with the gift that keeps on giving. The gift of Arbonne beauty.

Let your mom, grandmother, daughter or special friend know how much she means to you. Why not return the love and give this lady wonder the gift of beauty. (Come on now, she deserves it). Pamper her with soothing and aromatic beauty that will make her shine. After all, what woman wouldn't want to be pampered.

The good news is I know where you can find these fabulous beauty and wellness gift ideas I know she'll love.

Arbonne Aromassentials Awaken Sea Salt Scrub. Awaken her senses and helps her to move about her busy day with a renewed confidence and vitality. The botanical ingredients like essences of lemon and coriander is invigorating. She'll enjoy the blend of sea salt with moisturizing and aromatherapy oils. She will be sure to kick back with the heavenly scents like ylang ylang and chamomile that inspire serenity. Once you scrub away, her skin will feel refreshed, invigorated and she won't believe how soft and youthful her skin feels. The scrub works by gently exfoliating dead surface cells to reveal brighter, healthier-looking skin. It's made with avocados and sweet almond extract. The 16 oz. jar retails for $28.

Arbonne Aromassentials Awaken Sea Salt Scrub

Arbonne Invigorating Body Cleanser and Conditioning Body Moisture. The body cleanser hydrates as it cleanses and the enriched formula brings out a soft, yet vibrant look and feel. The key ingredients include cumber, clover, oat, orange, strawberry cell extracts, shea butter, Vitamin A, E and C, grapefruit peel, galbanum, sandalwood, orange peel, bergamot, lime, ginger, lemon and orange oil. After, she steps out of the shower, she can replenish moisture with the cool, soothing conditioning body moisturizer. This rich body lotion helps provide the moisture skin desires while leaving it feeling velvety soft and smooth. It's enriched with beneficial kiwi, strawberry and pumpkin phytonutrients that richly reward the skin with the attention it desires. Key ingredients include fresh pumpkin cells, moisture fresh complex of cucumber, birch leaf, watercress, clover blossom, St. Johns Wort, coco butter, shea butter, sweet almond oil, sunflower oil, Vitamins A and E, calendula extract and ginseng extract. The cleanser comes in a 10 oz. bottle and retails for $23 and the moisturizer comes in an 8 oz. bottle and retails for $23.

Invigorating Body Cleanser

Conditioning Body Moisture

To purchase any Arbonne beauty or wellness products or if you need more information, you can contact me directly at jennifer.weitzman15.gmail or my website, jenniferweitzman.myarbonne.com. The products can be shipped directly to you or that special woman in your life.

Kicks With Sparkle

One of my favorite childhood shoes just got a glamorous makeover.

Keds, the iconic white canvas sneaker with their classic pebbled rubber sole, were a cool statement back in the day. I started with the PRO-Keds sneaker and then evolved into a Champion during my high school days. I would wear these sneakers with slouchy socks and jeans (You know it was Z Cavaricci) cuffed at the ankle in order to show off my fancy kicks.

The Keds of my youth...

Now, the original sneaker brand that revolutionized the industry has teamed up with contemporary fashion house Alice + Olivia for a truly fancy update. Four sparkly Champion-style sneakers --in black, silver, pale pink and safari green - will be available this Spring at neimanmarcus.com and aliceandolivia.com and retails for $88.

...has grown with me thanks to sparkly sequins.

A+ O Founder Stacey Bendet told WWD: "I don't think I removed Keds from my feet as a kid. I can't even count how many pairs I had. We decided to do a collaboration that would bring a little Alice + Olivia fun ot the 2010 Keds Champion."

If you want to tap into your creative side and play fashion designer, you can personalize your own unique pair of Keds. You get to choice from three different Keds styles or go for all three from their Champion collection. Then pick from a whimsical palette of bright colors, prints and patterns. You can even have the option to add your name or message on them. You can also pick the shade of shoelace, the eyelets and inner lining among other section the Check out my new pair. Don't you just love them? I think everyone should own a pair of their own designs, it's only $60.

And my own version.

New York City is known for being a walking city and for its fashion. So when I found out that contemporary fashion house Alice + Olivia is teaming up with the iconic canvas sneak Keds for a sparkling version, my girlie side squealed in pure delight.

What do you think of the new look of Keds? Do you think you would wear a pair of Keds as an alternative to ballet flats? Let me know in the comments.

Razzle Dazzle At Ann Taylor

I stopped shopping Ann Taylor when I no longer looked for corporate suits in the mall. But the specialty store chain has undergone a massive makeover over the past year to become more stylish, beyond chic, sophisticated and more on trend. I recently attended a preview for their fall 2010 collection at the swank ACE hotel and was completely dazzled by the clothing chain's smartly tailored, well-made modern pieces that was infused with romantic sensibilities and old-world charm.

While scoping out the fashion crowd and celebrities like Rachel Blison and Mad Men's Christina Hendricks, my heart skipped a beat when I noticed all the beautiful accessories. The opulent pieces included eye-popping Swarovski crystal necklaces, grosgrain ribbon and rhinestone pendants, beaded cocktail rings, leopard print pumps, vintage-inspired booties.

I particularly loved the way the gorgeous pieces were displayed. The accessories were lovingly placed on books and glass cake trays, two of my favorite things.

All of the accessories will complement Ann Taylor's brilliant fall collection. The look celebrate the one-year style anniversary under the direction of head designer Lisa Axelson. Ann Taylor's fall looks includes sleek pencil skirts, classic jackets and feminine dresses in black, neutrals and leopard prints.

Even this sweet puppy got his paws on some jewels. Doesn't he look fabulous?

As a parting gift, Ann Taylor gave guests their own chunky sparkler. It will add a nice playful element to many looks, especially my LBD's and boyfriend tees.

I'm so happy to see Ann Taylor coming back to life. They have always catered to the hard working woman, but they have been hard at work softening their look and making it more appealing to everyone. What do you think of their new accessories. Any that caught your eye? Let me know in the comments.

It's My Time To Shine

As a beauty junkie and blogger, I have a closet full of beauty products that I have tested and tried. Many of them are fabulous and over the past several months I've shared those with you. Now, I'm so excited to tell you about my most recent beauty find that I know will help you achieve beautiful, younger-looking skin. (Isn't that what we all want?) I discovered Arbonne, a Swiss-formulated line of pure, botanically-based beauty products while at my friend's bridal shower where I met the beautiful Marea who told me about Arbonne.

At the time, I wasn't interested in a career in skin care but Marea's joy and excitement about Arbonne bubbled over to me and I said would give the products a try. Later that week, she gave me a gold bag filled with full-size bottles of Arbonne's new RE9 Advanced system. It was a pretty impressive kit to try. I loved having the full-size bottles to use in my own bathroom. To me, this is a much better way to test out a new beauty product than the small packets department stores and spas hand out.

Arbonne's RE9 Advance anti-aging skin care system

The RE9 Advanced system is Arbonne's anti-aging system that uses advanced breakthrough approach to address skin health. It works by paring targeted topical treatments with an age-defying supplement that accelerates results twice as fast. The system has five quick and easy steps that will have your skin skin feeling and looking youthful and refreshed. The products are rich in antioxidants, botanically-based and do not contain mineral oil or chemical fragrances.

I love the clean design of the bottles and their easy-to use pump. The night I first used Arbonne I loved the way the products layered on my skin and the fresh, orangey scent. It has a creamy texture that glides over your skin. The facial, body and hair products are all vegan-certified and are loaded with the best nature has to offer like herbal and botanical extracts, oils and vitamins. It really made a difference to how I looked and felt. It totally rejuvenated my skin and me as well.

After the first 24 hours of using Arbonne, my skin felt like lighter and as smooth as a rose petal. By the third day of trying the products, my skin looked like it was glowing from within and I didn't feel as if I needed makeup. This beauty system is the closest thing I can get to properly feeding my skin the nutrients it deserves. Anyone who knows me would agree that I care passionately about skin care. And turning 40 earlier this year only made a good skin care system important as ever. Aging concerns are as real as ever and I know that how I take care of my skin today will effect how my skin will look in my 50s, 60s, 70s and so on.

For these reasons and so many more, I am so excited to tell you I have joined the Arbonne team. Instead of writing about all the other beauty products, I'm going to write about Arbonne. I believe it's a perfect fit for me as the products combine personal care and wellness, striving to enhance the skin, body and mind. These are topics both dear to me. I'm so excited about these products and I would love to have you try them.

I believe Arbonne is a gift to be shared. If you would like a free 3-day packet of samples, you can email me at jennifer.weitzman15@gmail or if you are in the NYC area, I would love to have you try it at home. You can always visit my website jenniferweitzman.myarbonne.com when you are ready to shop.

Let's Be Foxy

Last night Michael and I enjoyed a bottle of Foxes Island Pinot Noir 2005 and cupcakes made by our fabulous friend Lisa. It sure makes me happy to discover a good red wine. But this one is particularly lovely. It's velvety smooth with a firm finish. It's decadently rich with dark fruits, earthy mushrooms, game meat, spice and balsamic flavors.. The ruby-colored wine (13.8% alcohol) is a good medium red wine that opens slowly, making the taste better with each welcoming sip.

Red wine and cupcakes, a few of my favorite things.

Foxes Island Pinot Noir 2005

Michael and I first discovered Foxes Island while having dinner in Auckland's marina on the last night of our honeymoon. We were browsing the menu when a busboy stopped by and suggested a bottle of Foxes Island. Sure, why not? We're an easy sell when it comes to wine. We're sure glad we did. The bottle was about $95 New Zealand dollars, which was about $45.

Foxes Island is in New Zealand's Marlborough region, located on the South Island. The area has quickly risen to worldwide fame for its amazing and distinctive wines. We have tried many other wines from the area and have enjoyed each of them.

Auckland, New Zealand

I highly recommend Foxes Island. Enjoy a bottle tonight, this weekend, whenever. You'll love it's charm and sip it slowly allowing the wine to reveal itself.

Wishing I Was in Berlin

I was supposed to writing you from Berlin and Budapest. I was heading there to check out all the fabulous sites, art galleries and museums, cafes and restaurants for a travel story I was going to write. But some volcanic activity from Eyjafjallajokull left me grounded.

I drowned my sorrows with a bottle of wine and of course, french fries at The Harrison. Of course, I also ate a delicious dinner, but happiness for me is always found at the bottom of a basket. The fries at The Harrison are, by far, the best fries I've ever had. They are deep fried with duck fat. The only thing better would be a second order.

Today, I'm going to continue my non-European vacation with a mental health day. My mind, body and soul are simply someplace else and I want to get away. I may not be sipping a beer or enjoying a wiener schnitzel, but I can certainly enjoy an impromptu vacation New York City style where I don't have to spend a dime and still take a much needed mental vacation.

Soaking up the sun in Fiji 2009. Today, I can just look at this picture and be taken away for a moment.

I always believed in trying to find a few minutes a day by yourself to de-stress which is so important to your overall well-being. It's even better if you can play hookie for a day and do something you truly love. It's amazing how much better I feel after taking some luxurious moments to myself.

Here are some ways to escape:

Exercise. For me, there is no better escape than exercise. It makes me feel I'm in control of my life and I can accomplish anything. Even if you're working, taking a walk during lunchtime is crucial for your mental health. That pile of work will get done when you get back. If you're able to, take a walk along a wooden trail, along the beach or to any peaceful place like a park or garden for even more relaxation.

Make it an at-home spa day. No need to spend lots of money on a professional facial. You can still get all the relaxing benefits and refreshed skin with many of your favorite beauty products. My friend Kristin recently enjoyed a little pampering with a DIY spa and said her skin felt and looked refreshed.

Read a book in bed. Close your door to the world and escape under your covers with a good book. Nothing is cozier, more comfortable or more peaceful than your own bed. And a good book (like the one I'm reading now The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory) can take you away from your own world.

Try something you've never done before. Whether it's trying a new recipe or pick up a craft like knitting, learning something new always gives me a new lease on life.

Daydreaming and people watching. Focusing on something else other than yourself can take you away from your world. Grab a cup of coffee, sit at cafe with a glass of vino and just watch and listen to the world around you. You never know what can turn up.

Meet someone for lunch. Spending time with someone on a sunny day, remembering fun times and planning ahead , can lift your spirits and refocus your energies.

Well, bon voyage for now. I'll be back tomorrow. But, I'm just wondering, how do you escape from it all? What do you do to relax and give yourself a boost? Let me know in the comments.

Zac Posen Around The Clock at Target

Meet Target's latest designer: Zac Posen.

Zac Posen. Photo credit: Patrick McMullan

I've always admired this dashing designer. His clothes are classically chic and I just love them. They are perfect for the woman who likes to dress up and feel joyous when doing so. I thought Ellen and Portia de Rossi looked gorgeous on their wedding day and timeless beauty Demi Moore was stunning in her hand-painted silk dress at the ESPY awards. Too bad those pieces are always out of reach for me.

Demi Moore in Zac Posen at the ESPY awards.

But now my heart is palpitating because the Midwest discount chain and the New York designer are teaming up for the latest in mass-produced designer collections. Posen's new line will hit Target shelves as well as their Web site on April 25. But if you live here in New York City, Posen's newest line will have you shopping around the clock. Head on over to Target's 24-hour pop-up shop for Zac Posen's Go International collection. The one-day event, at 481 Eighth Avenue and 34th Street, will be open from 11 pm on April 15 to 11 pm on April 16. This should give you a head start on Posen's fabulous collection. The pop-up shop will have the entire collection. If it's anything like the Target's pop-up shop for Liberty of London collection, you'll need to come early because I'm sure his most fabulous looks will sell out fast. Be sure to bring your double-shot iced mocha latte and energy bar. You can read my review of the Liberty of London here.

The designs are all priced under $199 and includes plenty of pretty dresses, sexy swimsuits, a red leather motorcycle jacket and a gorgeous tuxedo jacket and pants.

Earlier this year, Posen launched another lower-priced line Z Spoke exclusively with Saks Fifth Avenue. And before that, he collaborated with Target Australia on a line. He told New York Magazine at the time he did the project to "get around the world." Something I would do. You could read about Posen's trip Down Under right here.

Here are some of the looks Posen will be showing at the Target pop-up store Thursday night. My heart is set on the cherry-red motorcycle jacket and I promise Target if they save one for me I promise never to go to Costco again.

Motorcycle jacket, $199

Tuxedo jacket, $49.99

Tropical-print gown, $69.99

Red ruffled tulle dress, $79.99

Everyday denim never looked so chic, $39.99

Hawaiian-print shirt, $26.99; cuffed shorts, $27.99

Brocade floral dress, $74.99

Fireman-inspired slicker, $49.99

What do you think of Zac Posen for Target? Which pieces are you excited about? Let me know in the comments.

Fabulous Fridays: Florida Here We Come

Have a fabulous weekend!

Packing A Little Lighter To Hit Those Friendly Skies

I used to pack for a vacation by bringing my entire wardrobe. You never knew what you might need, right?. It always annoyed Michael when I would stuff my suitcase so he would have to sit on it to close and then take up room in his with my belongings. It was like I would go through as many wardrobe changes as my girl Britney. But every time I would travel I would rotate between the same two or three outfits. I like to take this Calypso dress with me every time I travel. It's super light, takes up practically no room in your luggage and is low maintenance.

Me and Michael in Fiji 2009

Tomorrow we are leaving to go to Florida for the weekend and I'm going to pack the dress in an effort to pack lightly. The airlines are totally making a bundle on people like me who don't pack lightly.

Clearly, this dress isn't going to set me over the limit. But my beauty products sure can. No matter how many nights away, I have packed my full line of Mario Badescu products, hair products, body creams and makeup along with a full set of brushes. I put all of it in a toiletry bag I bought from Land's End that is meant for a family of four. I barely manage to stuff it with my own beauty supplies.

This time, I'm going to attempt to pare down. I know I can't live without my facial products and I'll definitely need the sunscreen. But I'm going to keep my makeup to a minimum. This means I'll bring a blush, mascara, an under eye concealer and a lip gloss. Hopefully a little bit of the Florida sun will do the rest.

For my next trip though, I'm definitely going to check out the amazing travel kits from 3floz.com, a one-stop shop for all your beauty products in TSA-friendly sizes. They can ship your products directly to you or to your hotel, whichever makes traveling easier. Kits range from about $22-$200.

The Alexis Kit

So what beauty products are you willing to forgo while you're away?

Do You Take Your Fitness Outside?

Now that the weather is so inviting, I love to bring my workouts to the greater outdoors.

Me cycling during my first triathlon in Hopkinton, Mass.

Michael and I hiking in Fiji.

I love feeling the breeze run through my hair when I take my cycling to the streets. I love watching the pavement fly by as I peddle away. I love feeling that I'm taking myself someplace. To me, breathing in some fresh oxygen goes perfectly together with staying healthy. And, once you buy your equipment, it doesn't have to cost a thing.

In addition to cycling, there are so many more physical activities to do outdoors once the temperatures are warm. I love taking long walks in the city with my fabulous friend Lisa. I don't even realize how long we've been going and I love spending the time with my friend. Also, hiking, swimming, jogging, kayaking and even gardening can burn lots of calories and you'll have a great day at the same time. Just be sure to keep drinking your water and apply your sunscreen.

But I also still go to the gym. There is such a sense of community at the gym and working out with others can be really be inspiring. If you are new to working out or want to get back into a fitness regime, taking a class at your gym with others will give you a sense of getting in shape together and that you're not alone in your endeavors to stay in fit. There are also trainers at the gym who can best teach new exercises and push you to your limits.

Do you enjoy working out? Where do you prefer to workout when the days are beautiful?

The Short Look For Summer

Now that the weather has jumped instantly to summer (at least in our apartment), I must confess I'm dreading having to put on a pair of shorts. So what kind of shorts should women over 40 be wearing? I find shopping for shorts a bit tricky. It's a fine line between wearing something that's swimming on you and a pair of Daisy Dukes. You can't go too long or else you'll look like your Capri pants have shrunk and you can't go too short for fear that you'll look like your wearing something from a teenager's closet.

But don't fret. It's totally possible to create a look that's sophisticated, chic and perfect for a casual summer (even if its still spring) day.

Here are some fabulous short cuts to summer chic!

Stay neutral. Shorts in shades like taupe and cream are a perfect alternative to pants during the dog days of summer. To finish the look, just add a tailored blazer or a simple T-shirt and layers of necklaces and you'll effortlessly stylish day-to-night.

3.1 Phillip Lim

Go for clean, simple lines. Also, try to find shorts that hit right at or just above your knee. Your knees are most likely the thinnest part of your legs, so you want to make sure they aren't covered. This tailored look is a summer essential and will make you feel tall and sleek. Isn't that what it's all about?

Lilly Pulitzer

Here's another pair I really love. Denim is such an important fabric and these shorts are long and roomy enough to be fabulous.

7 For All Mankind

What I would stay away from are the cutoff or short shorts. Who wears short shorts? Not me nor should any woman over the age of 40. It will look like you are still heading to the mall to meet your friends. A few years ago, a woman from Kentucky got sent to jail for wearing her shorts too short.

Jailed for wearing her short shorts to court. To hear her story, click here.

To be perfectly short and to the point, woman over 40 can look darn good wearing shorts. Are you ready to bare your legs this summer? Will you be wearing shorts? Let me know in the comments.

Fabulous Fridays: A Flower Grows In Manhattan

Happy Friday everyone!!! We made it through the rain and the Spring sunshine is finally with us. All throughout New York City, colorful flowers are again dotting the city landscape and the streets are packed with people who must have been as happy as I was to feel the sun on your skin again. It's just what the doctor has ordered.

Central Park

My street

I'm so ready for Spring. One of the best ways to get in the mood is by wearing floral accessories. Just a simple accent can really lift your spirits. Sarah Jessica Parker's Carrie Bradshaw made one of her signature fashion statements on Sex and the City when she wore her wild flower pins and that trend is really picking up heat this season.

Some might find florals too frilly, too sickening sweet. But when it's not overdone, it can be really beautiful. For me, floral accessories are a super chic and super easy way to freshen your look.

Here are some examples of floral accessories I love:

Floral pins like this gorgeous one from J. Crew are sprouting up all over this Spring. Just add it to your coat, jacket shirt, belt or purse and you'll have your Carrie moment.

J. Crew

This might be my new Spring obsession. Floral hair pins. These dainty pins are available on Etsy.

Etsy

The colorful hues on this golden metal bracelet by Kenneth Jay Lane really make a statement against any simple, neutral Spring look.

Kenneth Jay Lane

I love the neutral shade of this platform sandal by Valentino but the rosettes make this chic design more playful.

Valentino

This festive bag by Valentinois a knockout. I would wear it all year round.

Valentino

I'm really looking forward to the 70 degree weekend. After this wet, wild and cold winter, my Spring fever is on!!!

Spring is a time of renewal, getting out of hibernation, awakening your energies and loving all there is to enjoy in life. Tell me, what are you looking forward to the most this Spring?

What To Do With Your Tax Refunds

Hello my fabulous friends! So sorry I've been away all week. I've been recouping from major plastic surgery.

April Fool's!!!!

Pranks and taxes are some of the things we can always look forward to every April. That magical check that appears from the the US Treasury. If you're anything like me, the thought of a tax refund evokes images of spa getaways and shopping sprees. I still have major buyer's regret not picking up a Chloe bag before I left my last retail job when I had the employee discount. Maybe this is the year I'll buy this gorgeous Chloe Marci Hobo Bag.

Chloe Marci Hobo Bag

That yearly check that arrives is always so exciting for me. In years past I've treated myself to a new camera, my awesome bike and a fabulous trip to Mexico. Why not? I worked hard for it. It was my "bonus" and I was going to splurge on something I couldn't do all year.

But now that I'm 40, I'm wondering if that's the best way to make use of this money. I'm thinking, probably not.

But don't be a tax April fool.

Before you pack your bags and sign your name on the sales receipt, really think about how the money can have real, lasting power. That relaxing Swedish massage might be relaxing, but think how much better you'll feel when your debt is under control or even paid off.

After all, your tax return is just a repayment of an interest-free loan you gave the government in the previous year because you OVERPAID them. It's your money that you rightfully earned, just like your pay check and isn't fun money courtesy of Uncle Sam.

Sorry folks.

Here are some suggestions WIFE, the Women's Institute for Financial Education, on what to do with your refund and have some financial meaning to your life:

Set aside a portion of your check, maybe about 20 percent, for your own pleasure. Take the time and pick something rewarding for your life. The bike that I purchased three years ago brings me so much pleasure and it was an investment in my health so the money was totally worth it. The same is true for a vacation I took with Michael to Mexico. I will always have the lifetime of memories.

Now for the business side.

If you have credit card debt, this tax refund can be used to start paying down your debt. First, you should use the refund to pay off bills that you are late on. Secondly, you can use the refund to pay off your credit cards with the highest interest.

If you're lucky enough to not be in debt, you can use the money to set up a rainy day fund for the day you truly needs it. I'm talking about a real emergency like an unforseen health issue or home repair and not a shoe sale at Manolo Blahnik.

If you already have money set aside, use the refund to increase your retirement plan. You could either increase your contribution with your company's retirement plan or contribute to a Roth or traditional IRA.

If you already have everything you need and are all set with your retirement, you can give generously to me.

Are you getting a refund? What are you planning to do with your cash? Let me know in the comments.