Tequila Avion Review

First all a BIG shot out to Yasemin and the folks over at Avion for allowing me to do this review!

I was asked to do a review on the product Tequila Avion. I was told I would recieve a sample along with the "flying agave" t-shirts that are "flying" off the racks at Bloomies, Nordstroms and Urban Outfitters. Now we she said sample I was thinking a little sample size bottle. Boy, was I surprised. As you can see on the picture to the left, it was a lot bigger then what I thought!

Before I get to the review, first I will tell you a little about the product. Tequila Avion is produced with the finest Blue Weber Agave found in the highest regions of Jalisco, Mexico. The Tequila Avion is slow roasted in brick ovens under low temps which produce a richer flavor. It is produced by fifth generation agave growers.

Tequila Avion has def made it's mark. In fact a Octorber 2010 press release states that Tequila Avion has been selected for inculsion as a "Fastasy Gift" in the 84th edition of the world renowned Nieman Marcus Christmas Book!

Tequila Avion was formed by a group with the sole pourpose of creating and developing a tequila that defines a new standard of quality and taste. It was launched earlier this summer and then had a starring role on HBO's Entourage.

Now the review:

I am personally not a big tequila drinker, but I try and do the product reviews that are asked of me. I decided that this product review was best conducted over the weekend. First lets talk about what came in my package. Like I stated before, I thought this was going to be a little something, like you can grab from a gas station for $2 or something. I was not at all expecting a full size bottle. That made me happy! I also got a lot of great product knowledge, which was wonderful because i had never heard of this brand of tequila before. I also got my t-shirt ( there are pics of the shirt below).

So, Friday night came and it was time for my tequila tasting. Now I only had one other brand to compare it too and the was 1800 Silver (which made me sick, and had me a tad bit afraid of this one). Upon taste, Tequila Avion blew 1800 out of the water. The taste is as smooth as the claim. I didnt have the lime or salt, it was straight tequila and it was awesome!!!! It didnt have that burning sensation that some liquors have. It went down great. And the best part is it didnt make me sick!!! I still have some left over, I plan on that being gone this weekend. I think that most people who dont drink tequila are that way due to the taste of it, but I promise if you ever get a chance to taste Tequila Avion you will NOT be disappointed. It has beautiful flavors.

So, how does tequila tied into fashion? Well, the "flying agave" t-shirts are sold at Bloomingdales, Nordstroms and Urban Outfitters as stated above, and have been seen on the likes of Ming Tsai, Alton Brown and Jerry Ferrara. And everyone knows, celebs only wear whats hot. So, you can sip on great tasting tequila while wearing a fab tee!

In addition to being sold, Tequila Avion also gives away free t-shirts every week to fifty brand enthusiasts who best describe why they would like a Avion t-shirt. How awesome is that.

Information:

Tequila Avion comes in Avion Anejo, Avion Reposado and Avion Silver. *Price point is Avion Anejo $50-$60, Avion Reposado $45-$55 and Avion Silver $40-$50. For further information  or to locate bars, clubs restaurants or liquor stores that feature Tequila Avion, you can visit www.TequilaAvion.com or email them at info@TequilaAvion.com. You can also follow Tequila Avion on Facebook or Twitter at www.facebook.com/TequilaAvion or @TequilaAvion.

*prices varies by state.

Bob Quick Weave

This was the first time that I had ever rocked a bob cut. I had always wanted too. I decided to do a quick weave front angle bob. These are photos on how I completed my bob.

What I used: Garnier Hold Hair Spray, Cantu Shea Leave In, Eco Styler Gel, Morning Glory Gro and my hair dryer. You always want to use some kind of leave in conditioner if you are using a gel to mold your hair.

These are the black tracks, which I later removed because I didnt like the texture.

This is my hair molded back.

Another picture of my hair molded, this is before the morning glory.

And this is after. Major shrinkage! Morning Glory is so thick, and drying so that is what caused that..

Applying the black tracks in the back. You will do that until you feel like you have enough of one color. (if you are using more then one color)

Still using black, I came around to the sides with it.

Another side view with the black tracks.

Ok, so I have added the brown tracks. I did a regular closure and an invisible part.

Preparing for the cut!!!

After the cut, before I bumped it.

Its me!

Another view of the bob.

So here is the bob, a week after I did it. I pulled hair over the part, but it is there.

Kinky Curly Curling Custard

So many of you know that my addiction other then caffeine is youtube. While on youtube I seen this product from a brand called Kinky Curly. It was for their Curling Custard. I wanted something that would help my hair retain it's moisture which will help to define my curls. The product reviews that I seen on youtube for the line were all really good, so I decided I was going to have to try it.

Claims: According to the kinky-curly site, the curling custard was to elongate curls, giving your hair shine, moisture and curl definition. It claims to reduces bulk, remove frizz, give weight to your hair without feeling greasy, cruching or drying.

Results: I ordered the smaller of the two sizes, just because I didnt want a lot left over if I didnt like it. If you order it directly from the website the 8 oz. was $17. I was excited when it came and I went right away and washed my hair and began using this product. On the back of the jar it gives two different ways to use the product depending on your curl, but says for best results to use on soaking wet hair in sections. I also ordered a widetooth and a demi brush. I did as instructed too and used on soaking wet hair in sections. It was $17 well spent. I loooved this product. For it to be a styling gel, I didnt get the hardness, cruchy feel. It wasnt greasy at all. You dont have to use a lot, a little goes a long way! It has a great smell to it. My curls were defined. I can honestly say it did what it claimed to do. The only hang up I had with this product, and it could honestly be my hair type, the curl definition didnt last too long. I mean once my hair dried. I havent tried it since my hair has grown out. So I will have to do that! Other then that, I have NO complaints about this line, I love it like I said. Once the product is in your hair, you cant touch it, this helps reduce frizz. The ingredients are all natural, I know a lot of naturals look for that. I recommend this product all the time. They even have a children's line. I am currently all out of this product, but will be ordering more soon. I also intend to try the Knot Today, which is the conditioner. I am very happy I found this product. This is my own personal result from using this product. I am in no way connected or affliated with Kiny-curly. I have included links back to the site, so products can be purchased directly from them.

Pantene Pro V Curl Series

When I first made the choice to go natural, the first hair product I picked up was Pantene Curly Hair Dry to Moisturized. Knowing the Pantene brand, I figured this was going to be a great product. My natural hair has always been dry and I knew in order for Black hair to grow, it MUST be moisturized. I couldn't go wrong. So what went wrong?

Claims: Let's start with the shampoo. Pantene claims that it will control frizz and restore curls. It also claims that along with the conditioner, will help to replenish from root to tip to help regulate your dry hair's natural moisture.

Next, the conditioner. The claim is the same as the shampoo. To condition my dry hair, while controlling my frizz. It is also suppose to give me bouncy curls. All the while protecting my hair from damage and breakage.

Results: Here is what my results were after continued use. Nothing!!!! The shampoo was very drying to my hair. And the condtioner did nothing it said it would. I use a lot of conditioner with I conditon my hair. I even comb it through, but nothing helped with this line. Now, in all honesty, it could be because it was not meant for black hair. Which was my first thought as I was buying it. But I figured, I used Motions forever which is for black hair and I hated it. So what did I have to lose? My damn money! There wasn't a bouncy curl on my head! My hair was just as dry as it was prior to me using this product. I found that my hair was tangled, even trying to comb it with a widetooth comb was hard to do. It looked like a hot mess, even after the conditioner. I should have bought "Relaxed and Natural". I thought that with my hair being curly naturally, I should have been able to use the curly hair series. I ended up finishing the product so my money was spent in vain. I will not buy anything else from Pantene. Again, these are my own results, everyone's hair is different. I have included links to the products where they can be purchased directly from the Pantene website.

Elaine Kim Interview

A big thanks to Samantha Lefkowitz @ D’Orazio & Associates for setting up this interview with fashion designer Elaine Kim.

MarieRedd: First let me thank you Elaine, for taking time from your business schedule to sit down with A Fashion Affair. Thank you Elaine.

Elaine Kim: You are so welcome. Thank you....

MR: Now you were born in Korea and raised in California. How old were you when your family moved to the States?

EK: I moved to San Francisco from Seoul when I was 8 years-old.

MR: Did you always want to be a fashion designer?

EK: I always loved fashion. I sewed myself crazy outfits in high school and spent a lot of time combing thrift shops. However, in college, I loved studying literature and languages and planned to be a lawyer like any good Korean girl. But in the end, the exciting world of fashion tempted me and I jumped in as soon as I could!

MR: You came onto the scene back in 92’ with PRODUCT and quickly became a favorite of some A-listers like Madonna, Kate Moss, Cameron Diaz and Sofia Coppola. What was your first thought when you found out that they loved your designs?

EK: It was exhilarating! It's great when any client appreciates my work, famous or not; it makes it worth all the hard work. I am lucky for my die-hard supporters, then and now!

MR: When you took your break to raise your two children, did you know then you wanted to come back to fashion?

EK: Yes, I knew I would return to creating clothing; it is my life's work. But I needed to focus fully on Tiber and Echo when they were little. I don't regret that for a moment!

MR: The fashion industry is always changing, were you at all worried about making a strong comeback after an eight year hiatus back in 2000?

EK: (I came back in 2008 with my eponymous collection.) No, my initial expectations were to begin experimenting again in the studio and to gather a few supporters around me. Those expectations were certainly exceeded! But I still consider that I have a lifetime to create memorable clothing and to build a lasting brand.

MR: Were you following the trends while you were gone?

EK: You have to dress for function and comfort when you are breast feeding and chasing after toddlers! But function and comfort do not preclude style -- you can always have fun with your outfit with an individual touch here and there. Also, during those years, I learned to love jeans, something I never wore pre-children.

MR: Who or what inspires an Elaine Kim design?

EK: I am often inspired by art and architecture. I love interpreting the bold graphic ideas I discover there into my own craft using my own softer materials. Also, I am inspired by the amazing women I dress-- these are women who are out there doing things, traveling, and have to look great all the time.

MR: How long does it usually take to construct a piece?

EK: It can take an hour (if the stars are aligned), or it can take months. Years, even, I'd say. The pieces that stay in the line are constantly tweaked and improved. Yes, years!

MR: As a fashion designer, what matters the most to you?

EK: Making inspiring and relevant clothes for women today.

MR: What is the hardest part about designing clothes?

EK: The best thing about it is also its worst aspect -- that it moves so fast and changes constantly! I thrive on this pace, and yet it is really exhausting, too.

MR: Who is your favorite designer? Why?

EK: I don't have one favorite designer -- I love and appreciate them all!

MR: What is the one thing in your closet that you cannot live without? Why?

EK: My "Fuji" leather obi wrap belt. It instantly pulls any outfit together, and adds a great edgy texture to everything from t-shirts to silk dresses. Also I have always been obsessed with great shirts -- man-tailored with dramatic cuffs, long and lean, in crisp cotton and in sensuous silk - you put one on and you are instantly dressed.

MR: Who is Elaine Kim outside of being a fashion designer?

EK: A mother, a wife, a daughter, an entrepreneur -- your quintessential modern woman!

MR: What is the force that drives you?

EK: The desire to remain creatively independent drives me.

MR: What is the craziest thing that has ever happened behind the scenes at one of your shows?

EK: I do not do shows.

MR: What tips can you give anyone who wants to become a fashion designer?

EK: Don't hesitate, just jump in! If you love it, you will find a way to practice your craft. One thing I would stress is to get a well-rounded education first before you specialize in the trade; your cultural background will come through in your designs.

MR: Ok, Elaine I know you are crazy busy so I don’t want to take up any more time then I have. But before we go is there anything else my readers should know about Elaine Kim?

EK: I am committed to sustainable living, to maintaining a sustainable business, as much as I am committed to fashion and style. This is why I use local artisans and eco-friendly materials whenever I can. Also, quality craftsmanship and designs that don't date -- we can save the earth with these!

***You can find Elaine Kim's designs on her website at www.elainekim.com***

Lawrence Zarian Interview

Live from the Nokia Theatre, the 62^nd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards with host Jimmy Fallon. The small screens biggest night will be filled with live coverage of the red carpet, celebrity fashions and interviews. As the big names arrive, viewers can go online at TVGuide.com and discuss their favorite celebs fashion hits or misses with other fans by way of Facebook and Twitter.

Counting us down to television's biggest night will be Marc Istook, Tanika Ray and The Fashion Guy himself, Lawrence Zarian. Together they will host Emmy’s Red Carpet Countdown which will air live on the TV Guide Network on Sunday, August 29^th at 5pm ET/ 2pm PT. Following the countdown, TV Guide Network host Chris Harrison will be on the Red Carpet talking with the famous as they arrive on their way to the Nokia Theatre, where he will be talking about their nominations and fashions. Chris will also be live airing at 6pm ET/ 3pm PT on the TV Guide Network.

To wrap it all up will be Lawrence Zarian in Emmy’s Red Carpet Fashion Wrap. He will be joined by Countess LuAnn de Lesseps of The Real Housewives of New York, designer Nick Verreos, celeb stylist Jen Rade and hair stylist Kim Vo where they will discuss the nights fashion do’s and should not have’s. You can catch The Fashion Wrap with Lawrence Zarian on Monday, August 30^th at 8:00pm

With all of this going on, I was honored to interview “The Fashion Guy” Lawrence Zarian, the host of TV Guide Network's “The Fashion Team” a biweekly series that covers everyday’s fashion.  I wanted to get his take on what else fashion!

MarieRedd: What was it like being the son of the Mayor of your town?

Lawrence Zarian: First and foremost I was extremely proud of my Father!  He came to this country with ONLY $20 in his pocket and to go from that to being the Mayor of Glendale says something.  (He's also the only person to have been the Mayor of Glendale, 4 times!).  At times, being the son of the Mayor was challenging, but all in all, a proud experience.  My Dads the best...  one of my best friends!

MR: When did you know you wanted to be a part of the fashion industry?

LZ: My twin brother was making a very good living as a model and I thought that if he could do it...I could, too.  As time passed, I decided that I wanted to do more than just model the clothes, I wanted to talk about them, too.  And thus, a "Fashion Guy" was born.  (I also hounded every producer in town to give me a shot and never took "no" for an answer!!  I've also been very blessed to have producers give me my shot.)

MR: What fashion trends are you excited about seeing this season? And what trends can you do without?

LZ: I'm excited to see the use of eccentric color and the mixing of odd fabrics.  I also love the throw back to the 60's with that high-end look of Wall Street.

As for the "trends" I can do without....  There's actually NO trend we can do without.  What I love is that designers always create something for everyone.  Always.

MR: Do you have a "quick fix" fashion trick?  What is it?

LZ: Gaffers tape is my "quick fix" for everything!  From hemming slacks to creating that perfect waistline, gaffers tape is my mini miracle worker.   

MR: What’s the one thing in your closet you cannot live without?

LZ: My JOHN VARVATOS navy blue, cashmere zip hoodie.

MR: Will you be attending fashion week next month? Who's show are you excited about seeing?

LZ: I will most definitely be attending Fashion Week and their new location, Lincoln Center.  I always look forward to seeing CAROLINA HERRERA & BETSY JOHNSON.  Two amazing and inspired designers on opposite ends of the spectrum.  Carolina is all class and elegance while Betsy is fantasy and fun.

MR: What’s the best store a "recessionista" can shop on a budget?

LZ: Due to the recession, one can shop anywhere and get a good sale.  Personally, I like Macy's, JC Penney's, Kohls, PLUS the TJ Maxx and Marshalls.

MR: What’s the one fashion mistake people tend to make, in your opinion?

LZ: More times that not, women tend to wear clothing too tight in their desire to "fit" in to a specific size.  Remember, it's not about the size but the style...

MR: Being that you are the "fashion guy", what fashion advice/tip can you give my readers?

LZ: My tip is to wear clothing that makes you feel good about yourself.  Period.  When we try too hard to "fit in" with styles and trends we're not being authentic to our selves.  "You wear the style, DO NOT let the style wear you!"

Great tip, I couldn’t agree more. I do want to thank Lawrence for taking time out of his busy schedule to answer my questions and to Karin Failla for setting this up. You can catch “The Fashion Team” on TV Guide Network, check with your local listings for dates and times.

Be sure to catch live Red Carpet coverage of the 62nd Annual Primetime Emmys on TV Guide Network starting at 5pm ET/ 2pm PT.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQ3d60Zn43E

***Click the above link for a Fashion Wrap Preview***