TRIVIA
In 1904, a perfumed lip salve would have cost you 25 cents and would've been packaged in an aluminum case. By 1908, it was okay for women to apply lipstick at the table during lunch at a restaurant. It was not okay to apply lipstick at dinner!
.
Did you know that fish scales were once used to give your lipstick that frosty appearance?
THE FIFTIES
Cosmetics became a necessity to every woman during this decade and there was lots to choose from.
Hazel Bishop invents the first indelible lipstick during the 1950's.
Throwaway lipstick cases introduced.
Ava Gardner endorses "Max Factor's Cream Puff Pressed Powder"
Young women craving a little of the magic of Paris, saved their pennies to buy a bottle of Evening in Paris during this decade. It was re-released in 1990, rather unsuccessfully. For some reason, it did not seem to have the same scent that women remembered.
Estee Lauder released Youth Dew to woman during the 50's. Because women did not buy fragrances for themselves, Lauder formulated the scent into bath oil and lotion.
Max Factor introduces the first cream concealer. Lipsticks and eye shadows were soon to follow. Titanium was later added to tone down the brightness of the shades, leading to softer shades
Thursday, 26 July 2007
A MEASURE OF STYLE - Part 1
Vibrant, rebellious, at times stylishly tantalising, fiery….often gently flirtatious. Be it wide eyed innocence or a quiet sexy impudence… the look has said it all. From sharply, arched brows and a heavily glossed pout to the deep allure of the exotic fragrance. The verdict is out… never before has beauty been more luxuriously packaged.
THE 1900’S
Though make-up is a taboo in Victorian society, extravagant hair arrangements are, however, considered very attractive. French hairdresser Marcel Grateau introduces his famous wave, designed to make the hair look like a rippling sheet of silk. Cologne is accepted as a healthy adornment for the senses, though vanity is frowned upon. The decision of Selfridges in London to sell powder and rouge openly proves hugely popular with women as they fight for the right to look as they please and wear red lipstick as a symbol of feminine defiance.
THE 1920's
Liberated for the first time, stylish women begin plucking their eyebrows and wearing kohl around the eyes. Applying the new twist-up lipstick in public is the ultimate fashion statement. Coco Chanel establishes the must-have beauty accessory of the century - the tan.
THE 1900’S
Though make-up is a taboo in Victorian society, extravagant hair arrangements are, however, considered very attractive. French hairdresser Marcel Grateau introduces his famous wave, designed to make the hair look like a rippling sheet of silk. Cologne is accepted as a healthy adornment for the senses, though vanity is frowned upon. The decision of Selfridges in London to sell powder and rouge openly proves hugely popular with women as they fight for the right to look as they please and wear red lipstick as a symbol of feminine defiance.
THE 1920's
Liberated for the first time, stylish women begin plucking their eyebrows and wearing kohl around the eyes. Applying the new twist-up lipstick in public is the ultimate fashion statement. Coco Chanel establishes the must-have beauty accessory of the century - the tan.
A MEASURE OF STYLE
Vibrant, rebellious, at times stylishly tantalising, fiery….often gently flirtatious. Be it wide eyed innocence or a quiet sexy impudence… the look has said it all. From sharply, arched brows and a heavily glossed pout to the deep allure of the exotic fragrance. The verdict is out… never before has beauty been more luxuriously packaged.
THE 1900’S
Though make-up is a taboo in Victorian society, extravagant hair arrangements are, however, considered very attractive. French hairdresser Marcel Grateau introduces his famous wave, designed to make the hair look like a rippling sheet of silk. Cologne is accepted as a healthy adornment for the senses, though vanity is generally frowned on. The decision of Selfridges department store in London to sell powder and rouge openly proves hugely popular with women as they fight for the right to look as they please and wear red lipstick as a symbol of feminine defiance.
1920s
Liberated for the first time, stylish women begin plucking their eyebrows and wearing kohl around the eyes. Applying the new twist-up lipstick in public is the ultimate fashion statement. Coco Chanel establishes the must-have beauty accessory of the century - the tan.
1930 saw Hollywood setting standards for beauty, and every movie idol wants to have their look tailor-made by Max Factor, celebrity make-up artist.. Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein also establish popular cosmetic ranges. For the first time, branded cosmetics become a luxury.
World War II has a dramatic effect on women's position in society. Max Factor introduces stocking cream in response to shortages. Make-up fulfils an important role as an instant feminiser and affordable morale booster, and is even produced in shades to match air-raid shelters and gas masks. Red lipstick is seen as a symbol of patriotism, as women defy hardship by maintaining their appearance.
1950s
An explosion of colour - in everything from films to décor to fashion and make-up, epitomises post-war optimism. A boom in the luxury beauty industry - led by Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein - ensues. Avon begins the door-to-door cosmetics routine that is the bored housewives' best friend for the next 20 years.
Brigette Bardots’ dark smouldering eyes and Marilyn Monroe look is in.
1960s
The ‘Cleopatra look’ is borrowed from Elizabeth Taylor where kohl pencil lines are dramatically extended. The emphasis remains on the eyes, with false eyelashes being cited as a must-have item by fashion pioneer Mary Quant, whose hair is fashioned into the revolutionary five-point 'bob' by Vidal Sassoon.
.
1970’s
The hippie look is clearly defined as make-up gets sexy and casually messy. Major cosmetics companies continue to ignore the need for a beauty range suited to darker skins.
Eyes were emphasised with black and sometimes cat like eye make up.
The no make up look of the early to mid 70's was increasingly replaced with heightened artificiality. Models had pale skin and deep red lips. The innocent doe eyed look was gone. Fashion had come a full circle.
Disco, bellbottoms, polyester and thick eyebrows characterized the seventies with icons Farrah Fawcett and Robert Redford both receiving 70 percent of the facial plastic surgeon votes. "The seventies embodied leading ladies who had defined features like Meryl Streep and Cher," said Pearlman. "But Farrah Fawcett's delicate nose and chin and well-developed cheek bones gave her the face of this decade, while Robert Redford's nose and strong jaw line illustrated why he was selected."
1980s
Vanity is celebrated and decadent. Expertly applied make-up heightens the term ‘luxury’ to the woman and luxury beauty buys gain popularity. The 'Princess Di' hairstyle introduces the common man to the term ‘luxury’.
Product use in movies and television programs, especially sitcoms and soap operas, such as the “American Gigolo”, which was a showcase of Armani designs and contributed to the global appeal of the brand.
The 1990s
Consumers become increasingly sophisticated. The battle to rid the body of cellulite with expensive creams and body-toners dominates, while the growing interest in celebrity looks sees top make-up artists such as Bobbi Brown launching highly successful independent ranges. Meanwhile, Isabella Rossellini, famously dumped by Lancome for being too old at 43, launches her own Manifesto range, designed to suit women of all ages.
The launch of Calvin Klein’s CK One in 1993 provided the symbol of a unisex fragrance that revolutionised the fragrance market. The scent appealed to both male and female and was an instant success.
Into the 21st Century
The anti-ageing cream becomes king. Quick-fix treatments, such as collagen lip implants and 'Botox', facial skin peels and electric wave therapy, are increasingly popular.
2000
THE LOOK- RICH, REBELLIOUS AND SERIOUSLY SEXY
Smouldering eyes with lashes getting longer and sexier. Lots of liquid eyeliner. Natural toned shades in brown, plums, grays for the eyes. Thicker eyebrows. Blusher is natural mainly to draw attention to either stronger lips or eyes. Berries, Wines, and Browns seem to dominate in lipstick. The ’punk-chic’ look of the 80’s is back.
Nails take a new twist. Something that was rather slow to take off but which seems to be catching on is the inverted French manicure - pale nails with dark tips, or the more glamorous deep red with gold tips.
Hair is exciting and free - longer, full shaggy looks accented by soft perms and body waves. Color is softer and less adventurous. We step away from geometric shapes to more carefree, less structured styles shoulder length for both men and women.
Fresh, clean fragrances are popular, nothing overpowering. Fracas by Robert Piguet. Favoured by John Galliano, Joan Collins & Madonna
Mystic Tan becomes the official UV-Free tan of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
2001
THE LOOK – SENSUOUS APPEAL
Shorter, layered "messy" hair. More are coloring their hair, and highlights are still the rage! Makeup is darker eyes, with brighter lip colors. The Farrah Faucett look of the mid-70's is back. Women here are going for less perms and a more natural look. The makeup is the glittery and shimmery -- especially the silvers. Also, the three-layer look is "in" here, with the lightest shadow for the brow bone, the dark in the crease and under the lower lashes, with the medium color on the lid. Lipsticks are glossy colors.
Acrylic nails are the big thing here too!
2oo2
THE LOOK – BOHEMIAN CHICA
Its either the smoky sexy look, using colors ranging from a sooty black to lavender. Or... it is natural. This consists of neutrals to contour the eye ,with loads of black mascara. Blusher is natural and the focus is either on the mouth or the eye, never both. Colors are pretty intense, ranging from burgundy to berry tones for the mouth. For the neutral look, go for glosses.
Long bangs are still popular - either long, layered or wispy. Shoulder length, loose and sexy hair with lots of swing is how it is.
Its fresh florals to exotic spices in fragrances - an eclectic mix .
2002 and 2003 ushered in luxury in styling. Celebrity endorsements became imperative for luxury brands. Chanel appointed Nicole Kidman as the face of the legendary perfume No.5.
Cosmetic surgery becomes mainstream luxury now.
2003
THE LOOK – VENUS RISING
Soft shimmery pastels rule while pinks, lilacs, peaches and browns dominate every aspect. Heavily inked eyes as black eyeliner with the 60’s influenced thick line match up with nude lips swiped with gloss. Red lips with a nice touch of shine are the emphasis with this look. Everything else is toned down.
Dusky, smoky, lined eyes, purple shades of shadow bronze cheeks tell a story of their own. Sexy, pretty and feminine. Matt, bronzed skin - sheer, light foundation.
Flat hair is out while the shag of the late 60’s is the rage- with choppy layers and sexy bangs, a little longer with softer edges and a chunkier look around the perimeter.
Square nails are replaced with a squared-oval with pale colors to make them look longer.
It's Indecence by Givenchy for that warm and sensual fragrance.
2004
THE LOOK- TEQUILA SUNRISE
Gently shimmering make-up adds glimmer without the full-on spangle of glitter. Brightly colored eyeshadow.
Lips aren’t a major focus this summer but the mouth goes deep pink
Join the marines with the season's aqua make-up shades in deep blues and light mints. The fake tan is less orange and more natural than ever before.
Going tropical is the brightest beauty trends for summer. Blend juicy orange with grenadine shades.
Interesting reds, browns, coffee colors are hot this season as 2004 is the year of the brunette. Big bouncing hair is in. Blonde seems out.
Tousled and tantalizing. Casual messy. Curls undone.
The season's obsession with flowers translated into hair corsages.
Casual curls were in while the men opted for poker straight hair.
Cacharel's Anais Anais, the ultimate floral scent, is back too.
2005
THE LOOK- THE LOVE GLOW
With clothes taking on a colorful embellished mix, make-up was subtle and quiet. Long flirty lashes, sultry eyes with a pulled out liner, slightly smoked out eyes in black, grey and browns. Very Marilyn Monroe and Brigette Bardot –casual and easy flowing, worn simply with a pale, golden tan. Pouts wore a soft sunset tones or a colorless gloss. A soft pink blusher completed the look of love.
The essential school girl accessory- the band, is back with a vengeance - be it huge and padded or thin, plastic and shiny.
Hair color is big while tone-to-tone highlights work, if at all. The lift is back with more volume.
Creed Silver's Mountain water, a unisex fragrance inspired by the French mountains creates magic.
2006
THE LOOK- CALL OF THE WILD
Arrogant and powerful… oozing attitude… Flirty eye lashes, dramatic eyeliner and red hot lips. The sultry cat like eyes with a pulled out liner, colored kajals in blues, purples and greens and a nude gloss. Bronzers are substituted with dark foundation for a tan.
Light bases, glowing skins with iridescent powders.Pouts get pooched with glossy pinks, vanilla and plums while the Oriental look ushers in the dramatic richness that only reds and dark peaches can.
Face-framing layers in this year. People are adventurous enough to add short and long layers to get that edgy look. Hair colour is ash gold for streaks and chocolate brown for full hair. Accessories make a comeback with headbands in combination with shorter bob styles to hold back the hair for a professional look, and to add a little glitz to the style. Barrettes and combs also make a splash to add some versatility.
For men, the slightly longish very shagged look takes on as does short hair with spikes and jagged fronts. Burgundy, purple, reds and platinum blondes a rage. Trends change from just a head of highlights all over to just flashes of color at the right places to emphasize the style. The salt and pepper look and just a few flashes of copper and blonde for men would also be a rage.
Nails now sport a curved, oval shape.
By Invitation only
Beauty is yet another name for luxury and opulence. Products therefore are getting more expensive by the day.
Primavera Relax Bath Oil is the most expensive oil costing $20.00 while Serums or moisturizers are typically the most expensive products within a skincare line.
Olay Age-Defying Daily Renewal Cream, which typically sells for around $5 per ounce (more expensive than caviar). Given the whopping amounts of money that people are willing to spend fighting the effects of aging, it should come as no surprise that haute couture skincare isn't cheap.
So what makes these products so expensive? For one thing, many of them are made from expensive ingredients such as crushed pearls, caviar and exotic antioxidants extracted from rare plants like the Chilean evergreen tree. Other popular components are anti-oxidants like grape seed extract, alpha lipoic acid, chamomile oils and green tea--protectants that are said to reduce skin damage from free radicals. Among the most important ingredients are customized cell messenger proteins such as peptides and epidermal growth factor that stimulate cell growth.
Celebrities like Madonna, Liv Tyler and Susan Sarandon swear by Tracie Martyn's products--and her $460 Resculpting Facial which involves the use of a special device that delivers electrical currents. The currents cause temporary muscle shortening, and have the effect of lifting and tightening the skin.
Dior Eyes is the first contact lense to be released by a luxury company.
The French brand has come up with two sets of contact lenses designed by John Galliano. These innovative contact lenses don't change eye colours, but rather enhance them with a special technical process exclusive to Dior. Each pair will last for a maximum of two months. The lenses are available in a silver box with a sliding case and mirror or in a pret-a-porter silver box.
While Cosmetic surgery procedures are common, it still continues to be a privilege of the super rich. A full facelift that would cost $20,000 in the U.S. runs about $1,250 in South Africa.
There has been an increase in number of celebrity endorsements for beauty establishing luxury in beauty. Italian luxury brand Versace has used music icon Madonna and Hollywood stars Demi Moore and Halle Berry in its print advertisements between 2005 and 2006. Likewise Sharon Stone in Dior and Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears and Elizabeth Taylor for Elizabeth Arden, Scarlett Johansson, and Uma Thurman in Vuitton ads.
Cartier’s “Le Baiser du Dragon is a fusion of powerful elements including notes of bitter almond, gardenia, cedar, musk, and patchouli with the bottle being an architectural masterpiece. At $83,170.00, it is the world's most expensive perfume. The fragrance, created by renowned British perfumer Arthur Burnham, is held in a 4 inch bottle made in platinum, 24 carat gold, diamonds and rubies. Encasing the bottle in a very special box constructed by Rolls Royce coach builders, locked with a gold and jewel studded key, is called Parfum VI.
\
THE 1900’S
Though make-up is a taboo in Victorian society, extravagant hair arrangements are, however, considered very attractive. French hairdresser Marcel Grateau introduces his famous wave, designed to make the hair look like a rippling sheet of silk. Cologne is accepted as a healthy adornment for the senses, though vanity is generally frowned on. The decision of Selfridges department store in London to sell powder and rouge openly proves hugely popular with women as they fight for the right to look as they please and wear red lipstick as a symbol of feminine defiance.
1920s
Liberated for the first time, stylish women begin plucking their eyebrows and wearing kohl around the eyes. Applying the new twist-up lipstick in public is the ultimate fashion statement. Coco Chanel establishes the must-have beauty accessory of the century - the tan.
1930 saw Hollywood setting standards for beauty, and every movie idol wants to have their look tailor-made by Max Factor, celebrity make-up artist.. Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein also establish popular cosmetic ranges. For the first time, branded cosmetics become a luxury.
World War II has a dramatic effect on women's position in society. Max Factor introduces stocking cream in response to shortages. Make-up fulfils an important role as an instant feminiser and affordable morale booster, and is even produced in shades to match air-raid shelters and gas masks. Red lipstick is seen as a symbol of patriotism, as women defy hardship by maintaining their appearance.
1950s
An explosion of colour - in everything from films to décor to fashion and make-up, epitomises post-war optimism. A boom in the luxury beauty industry - led by Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein - ensues. Avon begins the door-to-door cosmetics routine that is the bored housewives' best friend for the next 20 years.
Brigette Bardots’ dark smouldering eyes and Marilyn Monroe look is in.
1960s
The ‘Cleopatra look’ is borrowed from Elizabeth Taylor where kohl pencil lines are dramatically extended. The emphasis remains on the eyes, with false eyelashes being cited as a must-have item by fashion pioneer Mary Quant, whose hair is fashioned into the revolutionary five-point 'bob' by Vidal Sassoon.
.
1970’s
The hippie look is clearly defined as make-up gets sexy and casually messy. Major cosmetics companies continue to ignore the need for a beauty range suited to darker skins.
Eyes were emphasised with black and sometimes cat like eye make up.
The no make up look of the early to mid 70's was increasingly replaced with heightened artificiality. Models had pale skin and deep red lips. The innocent doe eyed look was gone. Fashion had come a full circle.
Disco, bellbottoms, polyester and thick eyebrows characterized the seventies with icons Farrah Fawcett and Robert Redford both receiving 70 percent of the facial plastic surgeon votes. "The seventies embodied leading ladies who had defined features like Meryl Streep and Cher," said Pearlman. "But Farrah Fawcett's delicate nose and chin and well-developed cheek bones gave her the face of this decade, while Robert Redford's nose and strong jaw line illustrated why he was selected."
1980s
Vanity is celebrated and decadent. Expertly applied make-up heightens the term ‘luxury’ to the woman and luxury beauty buys gain popularity. The 'Princess Di' hairstyle introduces the common man to the term ‘luxury’.
Product use in movies and television programs, especially sitcoms and soap operas, such as the “American Gigolo”, which was a showcase of Armani designs and contributed to the global appeal of the brand.
The 1990s
Consumers become increasingly sophisticated. The battle to rid the body of cellulite with expensive creams and body-toners dominates, while the growing interest in celebrity looks sees top make-up artists such as Bobbi Brown launching highly successful independent ranges. Meanwhile, Isabella Rossellini, famously dumped by Lancome for being too old at 43, launches her own Manifesto range, designed to suit women of all ages.
The launch of Calvin Klein’s CK One in 1993 provided the symbol of a unisex fragrance that revolutionised the fragrance market. The scent appealed to both male and female and was an instant success.
Into the 21st Century
The anti-ageing cream becomes king. Quick-fix treatments, such as collagen lip implants and 'Botox', facial skin peels and electric wave therapy, are increasingly popular.
2000
THE LOOK- RICH, REBELLIOUS AND SERIOUSLY SEXY
Smouldering eyes with lashes getting longer and sexier. Lots of liquid eyeliner. Natural toned shades in brown, plums, grays for the eyes. Thicker eyebrows. Blusher is natural mainly to draw attention to either stronger lips or eyes. Berries, Wines, and Browns seem to dominate in lipstick. The ’punk-chic’ look of the 80’s is back.
Nails take a new twist. Something that was rather slow to take off but which seems to be catching on is the inverted French manicure - pale nails with dark tips, or the more glamorous deep red with gold tips.
Hair is exciting and free - longer, full shaggy looks accented by soft perms and body waves. Color is softer and less adventurous. We step away from geometric shapes to more carefree, less structured styles shoulder length for both men and women.
Fresh, clean fragrances are popular, nothing overpowering. Fracas by Robert Piguet. Favoured by John Galliano, Joan Collins & Madonna
Mystic Tan becomes the official UV-Free tan of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
2001
THE LOOK – SENSUOUS APPEAL
Shorter, layered "messy" hair. More are coloring their hair, and highlights are still the rage! Makeup is darker eyes, with brighter lip colors. The Farrah Faucett look of the mid-70's is back. Women here are going for less perms and a more natural look. The makeup is the glittery and shimmery -- especially the silvers. Also, the three-layer look is "in" here, with the lightest shadow for the brow bone, the dark in the crease and under the lower lashes, with the medium color on the lid. Lipsticks are glossy colors.
Acrylic nails are the big thing here too!
2oo2
THE LOOK – BOHEMIAN CHICA
Its either the smoky sexy look, using colors ranging from a sooty black to lavender. Or... it is natural. This consists of neutrals to contour the eye ,with loads of black mascara. Blusher is natural and the focus is either on the mouth or the eye, never both. Colors are pretty intense, ranging from burgundy to berry tones for the mouth. For the neutral look, go for glosses.
Long bangs are still popular - either long, layered or wispy. Shoulder length, loose and sexy hair with lots of swing is how it is.
Its fresh florals to exotic spices in fragrances - an eclectic mix .
2002 and 2003 ushered in luxury in styling. Celebrity endorsements became imperative for luxury brands. Chanel appointed Nicole Kidman as the face of the legendary perfume No.5.
Cosmetic surgery becomes mainstream luxury now.
2003
THE LOOK – VENUS RISING
Soft shimmery pastels rule while pinks, lilacs, peaches and browns dominate every aspect. Heavily inked eyes as black eyeliner with the 60’s influenced thick line match up with nude lips swiped with gloss. Red lips with a nice touch of shine are the emphasis with this look. Everything else is toned down.
Dusky, smoky, lined eyes, purple shades of shadow bronze cheeks tell a story of their own. Sexy, pretty and feminine. Matt, bronzed skin - sheer, light foundation.
Flat hair is out while the shag of the late 60’s is the rage- with choppy layers and sexy bangs, a little longer with softer edges and a chunkier look around the perimeter.
Square nails are replaced with a squared-oval with pale colors to make them look longer.
It's Indecence by Givenchy for that warm and sensual fragrance.
2004
THE LOOK- TEQUILA SUNRISE
Gently shimmering make-up adds glimmer without the full-on spangle of glitter. Brightly colored eyeshadow.
Lips aren’t a major focus this summer but the mouth goes deep pink
Join the marines with the season's aqua make-up shades in deep blues and light mints. The fake tan is less orange and more natural than ever before.
Going tropical is the brightest beauty trends for summer. Blend juicy orange with grenadine shades.
Interesting reds, browns, coffee colors are hot this season as 2004 is the year of the brunette. Big bouncing hair is in. Blonde seems out.
Tousled and tantalizing. Casual messy. Curls undone.
The season's obsession with flowers translated into hair corsages.
Casual curls were in while the men opted for poker straight hair.
Cacharel's Anais Anais, the ultimate floral scent, is back too.
2005
THE LOOK- THE LOVE GLOW
With clothes taking on a colorful embellished mix, make-up was subtle and quiet. Long flirty lashes, sultry eyes with a pulled out liner, slightly smoked out eyes in black, grey and browns. Very Marilyn Monroe and Brigette Bardot –casual and easy flowing, worn simply with a pale, golden tan. Pouts wore a soft sunset tones or a colorless gloss. A soft pink blusher completed the look of love.
The essential school girl accessory- the band, is back with a vengeance - be it huge and padded or thin, plastic and shiny.
Hair color is big while tone-to-tone highlights work, if at all. The lift is back with more volume.
Creed Silver's Mountain water, a unisex fragrance inspired by the French mountains creates magic.
2006
THE LOOK- CALL OF THE WILD
Arrogant and powerful… oozing attitude… Flirty eye lashes, dramatic eyeliner and red hot lips. The sultry cat like eyes with a pulled out liner, colored kajals in blues, purples and greens and a nude gloss. Bronzers are substituted with dark foundation for a tan.
Light bases, glowing skins with iridescent powders.Pouts get pooched with glossy pinks, vanilla and plums while the Oriental look ushers in the dramatic richness that only reds and dark peaches can.
Face-framing layers in this year. People are adventurous enough to add short and long layers to get that edgy look. Hair colour is ash gold for streaks and chocolate brown for full hair. Accessories make a comeback with headbands in combination with shorter bob styles to hold back the hair for a professional look, and to add a little glitz to the style. Barrettes and combs also make a splash to add some versatility.
For men, the slightly longish very shagged look takes on as does short hair with spikes and jagged fronts. Burgundy, purple, reds and platinum blondes a rage. Trends change from just a head of highlights all over to just flashes of color at the right places to emphasize the style. The salt and pepper look and just a few flashes of copper and blonde for men would also be a rage.
Nails now sport a curved, oval shape.
By Invitation only
Beauty is yet another name for luxury and opulence. Products therefore are getting more expensive by the day.
Primavera Relax Bath Oil is the most expensive oil costing $20.00 while Serums or moisturizers are typically the most expensive products within a skincare line.
Olay Age-Defying Daily Renewal Cream, which typically sells for around $5 per ounce (more expensive than caviar). Given the whopping amounts of money that people are willing to spend fighting the effects of aging, it should come as no surprise that haute couture skincare isn't cheap.
So what makes these products so expensive? For one thing, many of them are made from expensive ingredients such as crushed pearls, caviar and exotic antioxidants extracted from rare plants like the Chilean evergreen tree. Other popular components are anti-oxidants like grape seed extract, alpha lipoic acid, chamomile oils and green tea--protectants that are said to reduce skin damage from free radicals. Among the most important ingredients are customized cell messenger proteins such as peptides and epidermal growth factor that stimulate cell growth.
Celebrities like Madonna, Liv Tyler and Susan Sarandon swear by Tracie Martyn's products--and her $460 Resculpting Facial which involves the use of a special device that delivers electrical currents. The currents cause temporary muscle shortening, and have the effect of lifting and tightening the skin.
Dior Eyes is the first contact lense to be released by a luxury company.
The French brand has come up with two sets of contact lenses designed by John Galliano. These innovative contact lenses don't change eye colours, but rather enhance them with a special technical process exclusive to Dior. Each pair will last for a maximum of two months. The lenses are available in a silver box with a sliding case and mirror or in a pret-a-porter silver box.
While Cosmetic surgery procedures are common, it still continues to be a privilege of the super rich. A full facelift that would cost $20,000 in the U.S. runs about $1,250 in South Africa.
There has been an increase in number of celebrity endorsements for beauty establishing luxury in beauty. Italian luxury brand Versace has used music icon Madonna and Hollywood stars Demi Moore and Halle Berry in its print advertisements between 2005 and 2006. Likewise Sharon Stone in Dior and Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears and Elizabeth Taylor for Elizabeth Arden, Scarlett Johansson, and Uma Thurman in Vuitton ads.
Cartier’s “Le Baiser du Dragon is a fusion of powerful elements including notes of bitter almond, gardenia, cedar, musk, and patchouli with the bottle being an architectural masterpiece. At $83,170.00, it is the world's most expensive perfume. The fragrance, created by renowned British perfumer Arthur Burnham, is held in a 4 inch bottle made in platinum, 24 carat gold, diamonds and rubies. Encasing the bottle in a very special box constructed by Rolls Royce coach builders, locked with a gold and jewel studded key, is called Parfum VI.
\
epression through architecture
EXPRESSION THROUGH ARCHITECTURE
Man’s existence, time and again, has been defined by and dependent upon his ability to conquer and control his physical environment.
As he learned to co-exist in harmony with nature and the environment, towns developed, commerce was created and people survived to prosper.
Architecture as an art form emerged as early primitive shelters gave way to dignified permanent strucutures blending the best of both art and science. Thus arose, distinctive designs and and style characteristics that would eventually define definitive architectural periods and styles, thereby influencing art and design for years to come.
The ultimate benchmark by which a person’s intellect, social status and professional success was measured was by one’s choice of personal dwelling and the statement made by its architectural style.
Whether we realize it or not, we judge a home by the three dimensions of interior space. These are…
• the frame of reference….the architectural envelope.
• Contrived space-the division of space within a room. This is where furniture arrangements are created.
• Integral space-the intimate space within the contrived space. This is where accessory and room details flourish.
The three dimensions of interior space are based on the principles and elements of design that the ancient Greek discovered more than 2000 years ago. These principles were used to create their magnificient architectural structures that are universally acknowledged as models of excellence in classic proportion and scale.
These rules directly influence all furniture furniture arrangements, drapery treatments, fabric selection, color distribution, accessorizing etc.
The frame of reference of interior space refers to the six planes that enclose a room…the four walls, the floor and the ceiling. Each plane or surface contains important elements that defines the whole.
A dining room ceiling, for instance, could become the focal point of the room by showcasing a beautifully detailed, classical medallion from which a traditional chandelier could hang.
Basically, each room should have one main focal point.The larger the room or the higher the ceilings, the more dramatic the focal point should be.
In a family room, the fireplace is usually designed to be the main focal point. Its architectural design sets the tone of the room and even determines the style and placement of the furniture around it.
Walls can be given greater presence with layered, multi piece crown and base mouldings, detailed cased openings and raised block paneling. In entrance foyers and living rooms, one sees beautifully carved wood pilasters attached to the walls for architectural enrichment or as paired columns. Traditional mouldings and trim details add immensely to the visual enrichment of a home.
Staircase design has also become an art over the last few years. Gracefully proportioned, intricately detailed iron railings in faux finishes or classical, iron balusters with brown glass beading. A staircase is the focal point no matter where it is located in a house, so careful consideration must be given to its design and construction.
Doors play a crucial role in establishing the overall character of a home, on the exterior as well as the interior. In fact, the front door is the main focal point so its style, design and finish must be carefully adhered to. From richly carved, wood panel doors to beautifully detailed beveled glass designs set into walnut or mahogany frames, frontdoors and their accompanying sidelights and transoms add a distinctive touch to the architectural envelope.
Windows These important design elements come in an endless variety of sizes, shapes, colors and styles, ranging from traditional to narrow, vertical single pane panels to the classical Palladian arches and the newly popular French windows.
Floors are often overlooked and their design potential underestimated. They alone connect and can unify all areas of the house so it is important that if different flooring materials are used, they harmonize well in tone and style.. Wood is generally the best choice because it is adaptable to all design styles, from traditional to transitional. Limestone and marble are wonderful style setters that add character and warmth.
The important aspect while designing a space plan is to establish the main focal point in each room. At times one might need to redesign, remodel this point of reference to give a room more character and impact. For example, if a family room fireplace has a short, shallow mantel above it, adding a longer, wider mantel with a deeper overhanging profile and decorative brackets underneath would provide a more dramatic anchor for accessories as well as draw more attention to the fireplace. In addition, adding low voltage recessed lighting in the ceiling above the fireplace would further enhance the focal point by highlighting the accessories on the mantel. Proportion, scale, balance and focal point is the key to planning as given to us by the Greeks.
Man’s existence, time and again, has been defined by and dependent upon his ability to conquer and control his physical environment.
As he learned to co-exist in harmony with nature and the environment, towns developed, commerce was created and people survived to prosper.
Architecture as an art form emerged as early primitive shelters gave way to dignified permanent strucutures blending the best of both art and science. Thus arose, distinctive designs and and style characteristics that would eventually define definitive architectural periods and styles, thereby influencing art and design for years to come.
The ultimate benchmark by which a person’s intellect, social status and professional success was measured was by one’s choice of personal dwelling and the statement made by its architectural style.
Whether we realize it or not, we judge a home by the three dimensions of interior space. These are…
• the frame of reference….the architectural envelope.
• Contrived space-the division of space within a room. This is where furniture arrangements are created.
• Integral space-the intimate space within the contrived space. This is where accessory and room details flourish.
The three dimensions of interior space are based on the principles and elements of design that the ancient Greek discovered more than 2000 years ago. These principles were used to create their magnificient architectural structures that are universally acknowledged as models of excellence in classic proportion and scale.
These rules directly influence all furniture furniture arrangements, drapery treatments, fabric selection, color distribution, accessorizing etc.
The frame of reference of interior space refers to the six planes that enclose a room…the four walls, the floor and the ceiling. Each plane or surface contains important elements that defines the whole.
A dining room ceiling, for instance, could become the focal point of the room by showcasing a beautifully detailed, classical medallion from which a traditional chandelier could hang.
Basically, each room should have one main focal point.The larger the room or the higher the ceilings, the more dramatic the focal point should be.
In a family room, the fireplace is usually designed to be the main focal point. Its architectural design sets the tone of the room and even determines the style and placement of the furniture around it.
Walls can be given greater presence with layered, multi piece crown and base mouldings, detailed cased openings and raised block paneling. In entrance foyers and living rooms, one sees beautifully carved wood pilasters attached to the walls for architectural enrichment or as paired columns. Traditional mouldings and trim details add immensely to the visual enrichment of a home.
Staircase design has also become an art over the last few years. Gracefully proportioned, intricately detailed iron railings in faux finishes or classical, iron balusters with brown glass beading. A staircase is the focal point no matter where it is located in a house, so careful consideration must be given to its design and construction.
Doors play a crucial role in establishing the overall character of a home, on the exterior as well as the interior. In fact, the front door is the main focal point so its style, design and finish must be carefully adhered to. From richly carved, wood panel doors to beautifully detailed beveled glass designs set into walnut or mahogany frames, frontdoors and their accompanying sidelights and transoms add a distinctive touch to the architectural envelope.
Windows These important design elements come in an endless variety of sizes, shapes, colors and styles, ranging from traditional to narrow, vertical single pane panels to the classical Palladian arches and the newly popular French windows.
Floors are often overlooked and their design potential underestimated. They alone connect and can unify all areas of the house so it is important that if different flooring materials are used, they harmonize well in tone and style.. Wood is generally the best choice because it is adaptable to all design styles, from traditional to transitional. Limestone and marble are wonderful style setters that add character and warmth.
The important aspect while designing a space plan is to establish the main focal point in each room. At times one might need to redesign, remodel this point of reference to give a room more character and impact. For example, if a family room fireplace has a short, shallow mantel above it, adding a longer, wider mantel with a deeper overhanging profile and decorative brackets underneath would provide a more dramatic anchor for accessories as well as draw more attention to the fireplace. In addition, adding low voltage recessed lighting in the ceiling above the fireplace would further enhance the focal point by highlighting the accessories on the mantel. Proportion, scale, balance and focal point is the key to planning as given to us by the Greeks.
Wednesday, 25 July 2007
Monday, 14 May 2007
I LOVE GOD AND I LOVE GUCCI TOO
I love God and I love Gucci too!
The statement caught my attention as i have spent a long time wondering how to explain to my loved ones that one can be with god and at the same time be materially fulfilled too..
one can be rich, both within and without- why choose only one?
Spirituality means richness from within but it also means trying to make every effort to be rich materially as well since both need to co-exist.
My spiritual guru once asked me what i prayed for, to which i had replied rather proudly, happiness for all- and a good life for all the animals in the world etc etc...
She told me to work towards all that on my own rather than depend upon the world...but i don't have the means, said i,in all innocence...then ask god to provide you with so much that you can take care of them all yourself, said she....
thats when it occurred to me that she was right. What good was a person who was dependent herself on others? Ask god for the very best for you deserve only the best.
In all honesty, i was relieved in a strange way, coz even though my heart breaks at watching others in pain, and i do want to create a world for myself- a world where love reigns, i cant see myself living a life of denial and isolation which is what we grew up to interpret spirituality as...
today, im proud that i am able to connect the two - my inner richness can be translated into my external world...
Said someone, 'there is no blessing or glory in poverty whatsoever, but the unquenchable desire for more is the greatest poverty you can have.'
Abundance or poverty is an internal mindset and based on our mind and the thoughts we carry with it, we create our reality, consciously or unconsciously.
The pursuit of riches becomes more of a spiritual endeavour if we maintain our awareness of how and what we do. To possess wealth is not a sin, but to not be at peace with or without it, is an unhappy situation to be in.
Like they say, it is good to make money, bad to be made by it.
Once we grow in our spiritual awareness, we realize that our inner nature is designed to create abundance.
All we need to do is visualize abundance all around us- in work, in joy, in love, in riches....its actually a feeling of fullness, of feeling complete and overflowing....its only when we have tons of say, joy, laughter or even love that we tend to pass it on even unconsciously and eventually end up creating our own little heaven...
Soon we take responsibility for our own successes and failures. The universe is ours fOR the asking, provided we ask for it and are at peace and comfortable with what we get.
Like many, i believe in comfort and luxury, in desires and dreams. And i have learnt and in many ways still learning to demand and expect only the best for myself...
Its simple. God loves us and His love makes me feel loved and cherished and special in my own small way which makes me feel that i have the right to ask Him for only the best.
I dream big. I take risks. I take responsibility because i dare to love.
So dream on fearlessly and demand the very best for yourself if you want to give the world your best.
Love without reason, completely.
The statement caught my attention as i have spent a long time wondering how to explain to my loved ones that one can be with god and at the same time be materially fulfilled too..
one can be rich, both within and without- why choose only one?
Spirituality means richness from within but it also means trying to make every effort to be rich materially as well since both need to co-exist.
My spiritual guru once asked me what i prayed for, to which i had replied rather proudly, happiness for all- and a good life for all the animals in the world etc etc...
She told me to work towards all that on my own rather than depend upon the world...but i don't have the means, said i,in all innocence...then ask god to provide you with so much that you can take care of them all yourself, said she....
thats when it occurred to me that she was right. What good was a person who was dependent herself on others? Ask god for the very best for you deserve only the best.
In all honesty, i was relieved in a strange way, coz even though my heart breaks at watching others in pain, and i do want to create a world for myself- a world where love reigns, i cant see myself living a life of denial and isolation which is what we grew up to interpret spirituality as...
today, im proud that i am able to connect the two - my inner richness can be translated into my external world...
Said someone, 'there is no blessing or glory in poverty whatsoever, but the unquenchable desire for more is the greatest poverty you can have.'
Abundance or poverty is an internal mindset and based on our mind and the thoughts we carry with it, we create our reality, consciously or unconsciously.
The pursuit of riches becomes more of a spiritual endeavour if we maintain our awareness of how and what we do. To possess wealth is not a sin, but to not be at peace with or without it, is an unhappy situation to be in.
Like they say, it is good to make money, bad to be made by it.
Once we grow in our spiritual awareness, we realize that our inner nature is designed to create abundance.
All we need to do is visualize abundance all around us- in work, in joy, in love, in riches....its actually a feeling of fullness, of feeling complete and overflowing....its only when we have tons of say, joy, laughter or even love that we tend to pass it on even unconsciously and eventually end up creating our own little heaven...
Soon we take responsibility for our own successes and failures. The universe is ours fOR the asking, provided we ask for it and are at peace and comfortable with what we get.
Like many, i believe in comfort and luxury, in desires and dreams. And i have learnt and in many ways still learning to demand and expect only the best for myself...
Its simple. God loves us and His love makes me feel loved and cherished and special in my own small way which makes me feel that i have the right to ask Him for only the best.
I dream big. I take risks. I take responsibility because i dare to love.
So dream on fearlessly and demand the very best for yourself if you want to give the world your best.
Love without reason, completely.
Saturday, 28 April 2007
TA RA RUM PUM PUM
TA RA RUM PUM was just what I expected… a lesson in boredom… lousy music, bad screenplay and horrid styling…
However, it was heartening to see the couple stand by each other regardless of the bad times. For once, there were no dramatic outbursts and fights.
Also, what I want all you guys out there reading this to know is that the movie inspires us to fight for what we want in life. To take risks.
It tells a story about this racer who is a winner all the way and suddenly finds himself out of work thanks to a freak accident on the tracks. His fear of failing gets the better of him and he soon finds himself out of work and living in the dumps with his wife and two kids.
But what brings him back his lost glory is when he realizes he could lose his loved one and he decides to fight his fears and win because there is no other option left but to win.
That set me thinking. Life could be a winning game for us all if we gave ourselves no options.
Every person on earth has a gift, in some, the gift manifests itself spontaneously; others have to work to discover what it is.
There are moments when you have to take a risk, to do crazy things. Sure there are sufferings and defeats ..we cant avoid them. But its better to lose some of the battles in the struggle for your dreams than to be defeated without ever even knowing what you’re fighting for...
And the one thing that gives us the courage to fight for our dreams, take risks, is… love.
It makes us grow, slowly transforming us, helping us to have faith in god, in ourselves, in our dreams…
But we need to look for it courageously, and soon enough we begin to attract love of many kinds in ways unimaginable. Yes, love does conquer all but only when all oor inner battles have been fought and won.
To fear, is the easiest …but I have never believed or wanted the easy way out in life because ease brings with it a lack of hope, a dull acceptance and a laid back, selfish attitude that only teaches you to live for yourself, to love only yourself .
I’ve often wondered at the age of 17, where I had the energy and the drive to pursue so many things?
At a time when a financial crisis had hit the family, with ailing parents and a directionless life… what made me try harder… with each fall being harder, each attempt bringing with it more loss, rejection and humiliation?
All I had with me were my dreams, - a dream of making it big, a dream of giving my parents all that they deserved, a dream of having a loving home, of nurturing all the strays that my heart went out to…
Of being able to reach out to the millions who needed love…
Of making a difference…
… and all this when I had no idea where and how to begin… I had no guidance but just a strong desire ... to live life passionately and fully…
I recall, when it seemed that the darkness would never end, I only had to retreat into my land of dreams… of the life I so badly wanted for myself and my loved ones.. of never wanting to settle for anything but the best….
I wanted to be happy, curious, joyous, living every moment intensely, drinking the water of life thirstily.
‘Dreams mean work’ said a writer once.
Work at loving passionately, love yourself, love life, love your work, and allow it to give you the courage to work at your dreams!
type="text/javascript">statisfy('3aygMXGQPH0gK2cI1rzc31qeTXf3StcB');
However, it was heartening to see the couple stand by each other regardless of the bad times. For once, there were no dramatic outbursts and fights.
Also, what I want all you guys out there reading this to know is that the movie inspires us to fight for what we want in life. To take risks.
It tells a story about this racer who is a winner all the way and suddenly finds himself out of work thanks to a freak accident on the tracks. His fear of failing gets the better of him and he soon finds himself out of work and living in the dumps with his wife and two kids.
But what brings him back his lost glory is when he realizes he could lose his loved one and he decides to fight his fears and win because there is no other option left but to win.
That set me thinking. Life could be a winning game for us all if we gave ourselves no options.
Every person on earth has a gift, in some, the gift manifests itself spontaneously; others have to work to discover what it is.
There are moments when you have to take a risk, to do crazy things. Sure there are sufferings and defeats ..we cant avoid them. But its better to lose some of the battles in the struggle for your dreams than to be defeated without ever even knowing what you’re fighting for...
And the one thing that gives us the courage to fight for our dreams, take risks, is… love.
It makes us grow, slowly transforming us, helping us to have faith in god, in ourselves, in our dreams…
But we need to look for it courageously, and soon enough we begin to attract love of many kinds in ways unimaginable. Yes, love does conquer all but only when all oor inner battles have been fought and won.
To fear, is the easiest …but I have never believed or wanted the easy way out in life because ease brings with it a lack of hope, a dull acceptance and a laid back, selfish attitude that only teaches you to live for yourself, to love only yourself .
I’ve often wondered at the age of 17, where I had the energy and the drive to pursue so many things?
At a time when a financial crisis had hit the family, with ailing parents and a directionless life… what made me try harder… with each fall being harder, each attempt bringing with it more loss, rejection and humiliation?
All I had with me were my dreams, - a dream of making it big, a dream of giving my parents all that they deserved, a dream of having a loving home, of nurturing all the strays that my heart went out to…
Of being able to reach out to the millions who needed love…
Of making a difference…
… and all this when I had no idea where and how to begin… I had no guidance but just a strong desire ... to live life passionately and fully…
I recall, when it seemed that the darkness would never end, I only had to retreat into my land of dreams… of the life I so badly wanted for myself and my loved ones.. of never wanting to settle for anything but the best….
I wanted to be happy, curious, joyous, living every moment intensely, drinking the water of life thirstily.
‘Dreams mean work’ said a writer once.
Work at loving passionately, love yourself, love life, love your work, and allow it to give you the courage to work at your dreams!
type="text/javascript">statisfy('3aygMXGQPH0gK2cI1rzc31qeTXf3StcB');
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