Pretty, please:

Welcome to the Dollhouse: Wes Anderson creates a new 'Kingdom'

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 21:42:00 +0000

Jared Gilman is Sam Shakusky in Moonrise Kingdom.

The months between the moment I first glimpsed the trailer for Wes Anderson's Moonrise Kingdom and yesterday, when I was finally able to view the director's seventh film in its entirety, seemed to tick by in slow motion. It's no secret he's an absolute favorite director of mine and by the look of it, this particular effort promised to convey every bit of Anderson's signature blend of crisp, quirky characterization, shining artful cinematography, music you want to sing along to, and a story that bounces around in your brain for days. Gladly, it delivered.

Welcome to the dollhouse.

Kara Hayward is Suzy Bishop in Moonrise Kingdom.

Moonrise Kingdom opens with a series of close-ups moving to and fro in a picturesque little red house by the sea. There we meet 12-year old Suzy Bishop (Kara Hayward), perched in a window seat reading as her younger brothers play on the floor at her feet.

Suzy's managed to catch the eye of a Khaki Scout named Sam (Jared Gilman) and the two - exchange letters and plot their escape. With a Scout Master (Edward Norton) and his scouts, Suzy's parents (Bill Murray and Frances McDormand) and a police captain (Bruce Willis) after them, Suzy and Sam set off on an unforgettable adventure of their own.

For this film, Anderson teams up with Roman Coppola on a script that manages to reimagine those magical moments of childhood, and in some cases, perfect them. What if your very first kiss occurred on a beach with only the sounds of crashing waves and Francoise Hardy singing on a cassette recorder in the background?

Fans of Anderson's past films, like Rushmore or The Royal Tenenbaums, are sure to be delighted by the aesthetic and references of Moonrise Kingdom. It takes place in 1965 and every detail from Suzy's clothes and suitcase to scout nicknames like "Lazy Eye" seem fitting and capable of transporting the audience to a time and a place.

Bob Balaban's "Narrator" is so believable, so authoritative his explanation of the location and setting pulls you right back to an elementary geography classroom.

And between the heart-meltingly sweet sentimental moments between the two awkward lead characters, there lies absurdity in the form of impossibly high tree houses and parents who use bull horns to talk to their family members. It all just draws you into this picture-perfect world that Anderson and Coppola created.

For about 94 minutes you can't possible recall the real world around you. It's enough to make you want to pack a suitcase of your favorite novels, your kitten and cassette player and steal a mini canoe to escape for just a little while. You'll see what I mean.

Moonrise Kingdom opens in Detroit area theaters today, June 15, 2012.

Miss Piggy takes over my local MAC counter, and yours

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:46:00 +0000

The MAC Store might as well be my happy place.

I stop in from time to time and season to season to check out new products and shades, purchase gifts and ooh or ahh over the latest rage.

When my friend Photographer Doug Coombe mentioned he noticed Miss Piggy makeup during a recent shopping trip, I had to scout it out and learn more.

MAC Cosmetics always manages to entertain me most when the brand goes with a throw-back and collaborates with some whimsical character from my childhood - be it Barbie, Hello Kitty or, now, Miss Piggy.

Yes, reviews and news of the new Muppets movie can be found everywhere, even your favorite makeup counter.

It looks like MAC has pegged the feisty pig as a lady who prefers a strong look. It's all about the eyes.

Miss Piggy Pink is a playful shade for eyelids that conveys that girlhood adoration for the perfect shade of pink for $15.

But begin the look with Penultimate eye liner. Grab a stick in carbon black for $17.50 and you'll have complete control and precision as you line you eyes for definition - or that cute cat-eye effect I'm seeing everywhere lately.

And don't forget to bat your lashes. That's how Piggy won Kermit's heart after all. MAC gives us 36 Lash for $15, handmade and customizable lashes to dazzle catch attention when you strike a pose.

Check it out online or in person at your local MAC counter. And then dash off in Miss Piggy for MAC style to see The Muppets, in theaters now.

Pretty please tell us: What childhood icon would you like to see translated into a makeup collection - and why?

Skinnygirl's Bethenny Frankel sets sights on beauty biz

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 01:47:00 +0000

She made headlines as an outspoken, savvy single on The Real Housewives of New York City. Suddenly Bethenny Frankel's snappy one-liners were old news once the entrepreneur created her own line of Skinnygirl Cocktails, starting with the success of her much-lauded waistline-friendly Skinnygirl Margarita.

Now it seems Bravo TV's own starlet has set her sights on the beauty business. Inspired by the Skinnygirl Cocktails logo, a kitschy reflection of the now-married mommy, we can toast to Bethenny's success and re-create her perfect ponytail too.

All Drybar locations (sans San Francisco it seems) are partnering with Skinnygirl Cocktails and featuring her high-styled ponytail 'do. Drybar offers only blowouts for one price, $40. The blow dry bar concept is growing quickly - and sure to get a boost from its new partnership.

"We loved the idea of partnering with Bethenny Frankel and Skinnygirl Cocktails," said Alli Webb, Drybar co-founder. What makes the Skinnygirl ponytail so unique? "It's set up higher on the head than your average ponytail. It's sleek and has a slight curl at the end for added bounce. It's sweet and sophisticated at the same time."

Complimentary Skinnygirl White Cranberry Cosmos and Skinnygirl Margaritas will be offered to Drybar customers who order the ponytail off the menu.

“Skinnygirl cocktails and Drybar are a match made in heaven,” said Frankel. “Drybar is the perfect place for women to pamper themselves with a gorgeous blowout. Pair that with a Skinnygirl cocktail and you have glamour and fun in the same room—a definite recipe for success.”

Pretty please tell us – would you like a Skinnygirl Margarita with that versatile 'do? Have you tried a blow dry bar to keep your locks looking fresh?

Falling for cool weather shades in new nail colors

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:04:00 +0000

The precursor to sweater weather is stocking weather. The moment I pull on a pair of fishnets or tights before I head out of the door, I've officially waved farewell to summer.

It's time to embrace fall neutrals, richer colors and soon, cozier luxe fabrics. Why not start with your fingertips and ease your way through? Fall nail colors hint at the best shades of the season. Take Essie's Fall Collection for example - six shades that skirt the line from prim pinks and neutral almond tones to daring gray-green and luxurious burgundy.

Shades like Case Study and Glamour Purse were made for long work days. They'll look polished, professional and perfect. But Carry On and Power Clutch just scream autumn to me - like a fearless jump into a pile of recently-fallen leaves.

Butter London revealed an Autumn/Winter line that's hot enough to handle the chilly temperatures and dazzling enough to keep on hand for the inevitable upcoming holiday parties. My favorite is Bluey, a showy metallic peacock blue.

OPI's Fall Touring Collection is chock-full of rich and muted tones that look as easy to wear as your favorite pair of jeans. From true blues to melon orange, chic grays to taupes. My pick? Get in the Espresso Line, a notice-me black coffee shade you'll want to share with your most stylish girlfriends.

What nail colors are you coveting this season? Leave a comment and let us know, won't you?

Pretty Please at the Movies: 'Crazy, Stupid, Love.'

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:37:00 +0000

The sight of Steve Carell can draw me into a comedy. Call it The Office effect. Ryan Gosling is reason enough to get me to the theatre. And Emma Stone, well I'm convinced she's the It girl of cinema today. Put them together and I'm bound to love a modern rom-com romp, right?

Basically. I had a great attitude walking into Crazy, Stupid, Love. But I had no idea I'd fall in love with everything from the cast to the storyline, the witty writing to the clever cinematography.

Writer Dan Fogelman stole my heart with fast-paced dialogue that caught you off-guard and created characters so real you wanted to know them, slap them or grab a drink with them. Directors Glenn Ficarra and John Requa worked in tandem to craft a chaotic romp of a tale that put the pitfalls of love and romance at every age and many scenarios on screen.

Yes, the central theme follows Cal Weaver (Carell) as a sad sap of a middle-aged man who's wife (Julianne Moore) admits to cheating on him with an accountant at her office. The film opens in a restaurant as the camera pans in on sets of shoes, daters cozied up to one another from table to table until you find the all-to-comfortable Weavers, headed for a divorce.

But the story isn't as sad as it might be. Circling around Cal is a wide-eyed babysitter with a crush, a savvy ladies man (Ryan Gosling in a killer wardrobe) ready to teach him how to rebuild his life and a freckle-faced son who believes so strongly in the existence of a soul mate he might teach the adults in his life a few things.

Crazy, Stupid, Love. is the sort of movie that completely envelopes you for its duration. You can get lost in the lives of the characters, and likely won't see some of the story's twists and turns coming. It's a delightful surprise and a cinema experience I'll likely be repeating soon. Don't write it off as a movie to see with your girlfriends - it's funny and fast-paced enough to win over just about any crowd.

Crazy, Stupid, Love. runs 1 hour and 47 minutes. It is rated PG-13 and opens July 29 in area theaters. Will you see it?

Can your makeup stay put - even in this heat?

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 12:39:00 +0000

We're in the middle of heat wave, the sort that makes getting ready for work and events a challenge. It calls for simplicity - and for re-thinking that makeup routine.

These steamy days are great for sunscreen, a touch of eye makeup and gloss. But when you've got to step up the look, you don't want it to melt away as the day passes. And raccoon eyes? Just not acceptable.

All it takes is a little forethought - and the right products:

1. Start with a moisturizer and sunscreen combo. It will protect and prepare your skin for makeup.
2. Add liquid concealer only where you need. Cover those under eye circles and any blemishes with a light touch.
3. Line eyes with a gel-based eyeliner. Estee Lauder and Benefit both have staying power.
4. Flush cheeks with a light powder-based blush or try a long-lasting creme or stain and blend well. Tarte and Benefit have products that sweeten up your cheeks and keep you looking fresh.
5. Choose eye shadow carefully and apply with a brush. Nars and MAC formulas never let me down.
6. Top it with a loose powder to set and keep blotting papers handy to keep the extra shine of a hot, humid day, under control.

You're look will last all day - even if you're out in the sun and elements.

Need an extra boost? Benefit's Stay Put Set will also help keep that eye makeup from straying. For extra long days, extreme temperatures and those times when it takes an extra step to keep your face in place, it's a great tool.

The$35 set comes with a trio of stay-put products you can count on:

Stay Don't Stray serves as a liquid primer for concealers and shadows. Just a dab does the trick.
Erase Paste brightens eyes and hides those tell-tale dark circles.
Creaseless Cream Eyeshadow in RSVP is a lasting eyeshadow and liner in one.

How do you keep your look looking fresh when the thermometer tops 100 degrees?

Super 8 takes you back, returns meaning to summer blockbuster

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 12:05:00 +0000

It's rare to fall in love with a movie from its trailer and maintain that powerful attachment after seeing the real thing. So many things could go astray.

But when you're dealing with a super duo like J.J. Abrams and Steven Spielberg, you're in store for an amazing ride.

That ride is Super 8. Opening in metro Detroit theaters today, the film blends late 70s small town nostalgia with elements of slowly building intrigue, scientific experiments government cover-up and a brush with alien life.

It's been ages since we've seen a coming-of-age buddy movie, never mind something with superb special effects and moments of "I can't believe this is happening but I can't wait to see what happens next."

Don't let the PG-13 rating fool you, Super 8 has its super creepy, sneak-up-on-you moments. If you grew up wanting to be a Goonie, if you left a Reese's Pieces trail out to attract ET, you're bound to love Super 8.

The film welcomes us to into the close-knit community of Lillian, Ohio (which bares an uncanny resemblance to my hometown of Merrillville, Ind. in the 70s). The details were the first to catch my eye, from the houses to the clothing and cars, I was instantly transported to the funeral of Joe Lamb's mother, who died in a terrible accident at work at a local factory.

He's left with his father (Kyle Chandler), a deputy in town who's rarely there for him. But Joe has his friends - pyromaniac Cary, Preston, Martin and Charles, the aspiring filmmaker who's enlisted them all to help him create a zombie movie.

We're instantly transfixed as the boys sneak out to film a scene at the railroad tracks, along with the prettiest girl in school, the troubled Alice Dainard. They sing " My Sharona on a grassy hill and it feels like Stand By Me all over again.

Except they aren't going in search of a dead body. They're about to witness a train derailment of epic proportions, the cause of which will keep you guessing and enthralled the whole movie through.

Every bit of Super 8 is precisely executed, from its emotional core to its realistic characters to a town that's torn apart before our eyes. It has heart, monsters, young love and hope - all captured through a tiny filmmakers camera. All capturing our attention to the end. It's a must-see and will appeal to audiences of all kinds and many ages.

A monster movie fan, I love the way Abrams gives us glimpses of what's to come. And yes, there are times when it seems all too precious, too perfect. It's rather convenient the kids can escape after the accident scene and return in Alice's father's stolen car. But that fact sure will push the plot forward.

Watch rather than question. It won't take too much effort or too much suspension of disbelief to just enjoy the ride. Because it's a fantastic one.

Oh and sit still. There's a surprise extra during the credits you won't want to miss.

What's your favorite coming of age summer film? Do tell.

Highly recommended: Escape for a Ladies Spa Day at D.Tour and relax your cares away

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 13:59:00 +0000

Sometimes we can forget how lucky we are. The stresses of life catch up and it's hard to step back and see all the amazing people we know and places we've been.

I've had one of those weeks. A chance to reflect and just feel thankful. It started with a Ladies Spa Day organized by my friend Stella. She brought together a group of five of us - Ponti, Jacki, Evelyn and me - to share stories and experience the amenities at MotorCity Casino's D.Tour Spa.

Though I had worked with the casino and its amazing Iridesence restaurant in the past, I had never before been to the mysterious S Floor. I couldn't wait to try it out.
I had now idea what I was missing.

When we arrived, we were greeted by a friendly staff at the beautiful entrance and shown to a private lounge filled with comfortable chairs, couches, a cool flat screen and treats to nosh on. We found fresh fruit, an assortment of teas, lemon water and desserts that were hard not to gobble up right away (fruit tarts, chocolate cheesecake squares and chocolate cannoli, yes please!).

But the dressing rooms awaited so we headed right over to change into cozy robes and fitted massaging slippers. Yep, that's how we'd be outfitted for the day. We took a brief tour and were then whisked away for services.

Since I had about an hour to wait until my massage, I had a chance to catch up with my friend Jacki. We tried out the thermal whirlpool, super hot steam room and dry sauna, then joined our gal pals in the lounge to get the skinny on how their services went. The relaxation had seriously commenced.

From there I met Leslie, my massage therapist, who guided me to the spa rooms and I prepared to unwind. I had a 50 minute Swedish massage complete with Motor City Music, which means relaxing music is piped into the room through the heated massage bed. It was an interesting experience. I love massages and often find that I have trouble allowing myself to truly relax, thinking I don't want my time to be up! But Leslie put me completely at ease and I was able to just take it all in.

D Tour uses a proprietary mix of essential oils that combines Ylang Ylang, lime and spearmint oils for a relaxing and refreshing experience.

From there, we took a break for lunch. Having ordered beforehand, I chose a house salad sans meat. And I was so pleased. It came crispy, fresh and generous with mixed greens, creamy avocado, garbanzo beans, corn and toppings galore. My friend Ponti and I also shared an order of shrimp that were so big they should be listed as prawns.

Though I had attempted to stay on the healthy side, the baskets of giant, steak-cut fries called out our names and we all shared them. We joked that there was really nothing better than hanging out all day in robes eating giant delicious french fries!

Soon enough it was time for my last spa service, a body wrap. I'd never had one before and was really excited. The D Tour Drive Wrap combined a sugar body scrub, mud wrap and body butter treatment all in one. Kim was friendly and gave me great information when I asked questions. The treatment left me feeling soft and smooth - and I never felt shy or awkward even though this service required intermediate showering. The staff is so great about making you comfortable in the environment.

We all spent more time enjoying the saunas and each other's company. It was a wonderful day. And an affordable one. You can reserve the lounge for free with friends as long as you each book a minimum of $100 in services. It's so worth it for a special occasion or the occasional splurge!

I'll definitely be back. We were already discussing a possible birthday visit. From the surroundings to amazing services, we felt so welcomed and so special. It was an amazing day and something everyone should experience from time to time.

Like I said, D.Tour Day reminded me of the best days and the reasons we work so hard. It's so important to take time out for ourselves, too.

Have you planned a spa day? What services do go for? What's the best part of a Spa getaway? Do tell.

Detroit glitterati come out to support the Michigan Opera Theatre for BravoBravo!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 12:43:00 +0000

BravoBravo! is one of those events that just seems to get better ever single year. In its 12th year the event supports the mission of the Michigan Opera Theatre and promotes arts and culture here in the city.

Congrats to this year's co-chairs Dominic Arellano, Piper Carter and Jerrid Mooney for throwing one of the best parties Detroit has to offer - for this amazing cause. Now more than ever it's heartening to see young professionals from across metro Detroit come together for a sell-out event that fills every corner of the posh Detroit Opera House so that all proceeds can support its programs throughout the year.

Caught tweeting from BravoBravo!

If you've never been, BravoBravo! is an event to anticipate next year. It always features the area's hottest restaurants and Detroit's best music. It's a see-and-be-seen sort of thing and a great place to catch up with so many friends.

Thanks to Yelp we had a chance to spent the night mingling, dancing, meeting new people and of course noshing on Slows BBQ mac n' cheese and Detroit Seafood Market paella, Sanders ice cream sundaes and sampling amazing drinks from Barefoot sparkling wines (flowing all night) to Pinnacle whipped cream and chocolate flavored vodkas. Tickets may sound pricey but all the food, drinks and fun are free once you're inside. It's well worth it. It truly is the party of the year.

Last year the event was fashion forward and filled with models. This year's theme, On Location, perfectly captured Michigan's latest venture into movie-making, complete with live stunts. Who knows where it will go next.

Plan now to attend next June. You won't be disappointed.

Piece it together: The Hangover Part II aims for holiday audiences

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Thu, 26 May 2011 12:29:00 +0000

Todd Phillips wants to take you on another wild ride, Hangover fans. And if you thought the formula for the first film worked, chances are pretty great you'll get some serious belly laughs and summer delight out of The Hangover Part II.

This time the self-proclaimed "wolf pack" (aka Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms pictured above) takes us off the Vegas rooftop and whisks us to the panoramic views of Thailand as Stu (Helms) prepares to marry Lauren, despite the disapproving stares of her Thai father. He's invited his best friends to travel across the globe for the nuptials and yes, even sheltered and bizarre Alan comes along.

When an innocent beer by the bonfire ends lands the "three best friends that anyone could have" in a familiar and frightening situation, they again try to piece together a lost night.

Stranded in Bangkok, Stu awakens with a tattooed face rather than lost tooth. Having misplaced his fiance's 16-year-old brother, Phil, Alan and even international criminal Mr. Chow attempt to help Stu search for Teddy in the seedy underbelly of a city everyone else seems to fear. The story isn't perfect. The plot is pieced together with moments of convenience and stocked with shock value.

But it's also acted with a familiar, funny and capable cast of characters you so easily want to like. So go ahead, fall in and escape. That's precisely what The Hangover Part II was meant for, and it does the trick.

Check your pockets for clues. Try to escape the criminals shooting at you at every turn. And count on finding incriminating photographs the moment your cell phone re-charges.

If there's a good time for a raucous,ridiculous, escapist comedy with a cast that can tickle your funny bone with the right look, well, it's Memorial Day weekend. The Hangover Part II opens May 26 in Detroit area theaters.

Let us know what you think! Leave comments with your review below. Will you see the film? Why or why not? Who's your favorite cast member?

Forks Over Knives - my decision to go meat-free

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Fri, 20 May 2011 12:53:00 +0000

Happy Cheeseburger-free anniversary to me. There, I said it. It's been about a year since I gave up meat, with little struggle (I was never a huge meat eater), but due to health concerns. I primarily eat fruits and vegetables, though dairy and some fish are still part of my diet.

You'd never know it by looking at my small stature but a year ago my doctor looked at me baffled after a routine blood exam and told me I had the cholesterol level of a woman three times my size. I've never been a smoker and I don't have any other risk factors. Still, when you add in the chronic migraines I've suffered since childhood, I stood at very serious risk for a stroke. He wanted to put me on medication immediately.

I insisted I was already on medication for my migraines and I'd like to try very hard to control this with diet. And the first thing to go was meat. Red meat, chicken, anything animal-related I could find that contained cholesterol. If my body was making this stuff like crazy on its own, I wasn't going to help.

When I heard about the film Forks Over Knives, in which documentary filmmaker Lee Fulkerson follows two renowned doctors - Drs. Campbell and Esselstyn - as well as several patients and others who have made key strides in proving that a whole foods plant-based diet is not only a healthy lifestyle choice, but a possible method to reverse cancer, diabetes, degenerative and cardiovascular diseases, I had to see it.

Some of the statistics in the film were nothing less than shocking. The United States food culture has brought us to a 40 percent obesity rate in adults. We see the impact of that is now spreading to children.

The film discusses how the protein in milk casein has been linked to the growth of certain cancers and how the absence of it shows a reversal. It talks about our relationship with food, the rise of fast food and convenience culture and the impact that has had on our health. Our digestive systems can sense when we are full if we consume whole foods.

But when we eat processed foods or oils, those sensors do not activate in the same manner, allowing us to take in many more calories despite the fact that we are not obtaining nutritional value. It's then easier to gain weight and continue that cycle. I've always heard of phrase food as a drug. The film explains it in a way I'd never considered before.

Forks Over Knives tells an interesting and new story. It doesn't overtly try to convert the audience. Though, I will say my boyfriend left having second thoughts about the chicken in his refrigerator. It aims to inform and inspire - like a good documentary should. It made me think. And because it was a subject close to my heart (in more ways than one), I found it important to share.

Check it out for yourself. Forks Over Knives is showing beginning May 20 at Royal Oak's Main Art Theatre, 118 N. Main Street. Find tickets and showtimes here.

Let me know what you think of the film. If you have any tips for a veggie-loving beginner like me, including recipes or cholesterol lowering foods, share them in comments. I'd really appreciate it!

Chicago 'razzle dazzles' at Detroit's Fisher Theatre

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Wed, 18 May 2011 22:41:00 +0000

Murder, fame, adultery, publicity – all that jazz makes up the sizzling plot to one of Broadway's best-loved musicals, Chicago. And it's come back with guns blazing, fishnet-covered gams kicking and jazz hands all a-twitter at Detroit's own Fisher Theatre, 3011 W. Grand Blvd.

The show opened to Tuesday night and - hurry - it only runs through May 22. Chicago is packed with star power, too. Seinfeld fans won't want to miss John O'Hurley (aka J. Peterman) as the unbeatable criminal lawyer Billy Flynn. O'Hurley's debonnaire presence fills the stage with suave attitude and dancing girls who wield feather fans like trance-enducing beautiful weapons.

You'll love his rendition of Razzle Dazzle but its the doll-motions of We Both Reached for the Gun that really wow the audience as O'Hurley and Tracey Shayne play off one another perfectly.

Shayne's take on troubled murderess Roxie Hart takes the character in a different direction. Chicago - a national tour directed by Scott Faris and choreographed by Gary Chryst - offers plenty of audience interaction but hardly a character of redeeming value.

There's Amos of course. Roxie's husband who would do anything for her, even admit to murder. He's the closest thing the story gives us to a conscience. He lacks strength on purpose. But he doesn't lack heart. Ron Orbach's Amos will make you tear up during Mister Cellophane if you're not careful.

With a book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse and music by John Kander, the simple set quite literally offers a gilded frame for a jazz night club in Chicago, where a woman scorned may just fire a deadly shot at her husband or boyfriend and try fiercely to get away with murder. The costumes are uniformly black and the cast is scantily clad, keeping the momentum on the songs, the story and the choreography itself.

Still the highlights of the show in my opinion come from two positions of pure power. The original murdering widow, Velma Kelly (Terra C. MacLeod), and Matron Mama Morton (Roz Ryan). With her severe brunette bob and bright red lips, Velma's style is recognizable from the first row to the last. MacLeod is a force to be reckoned with.

Whether she's alone commanding attention on stage, like Ryan does so amazingly while belting out When You're Good to Mama, or they're together in the hilarious and slightly raunchy Class, MacLeod and Ryan make this rendition of Chicago one to remember.

I dare anyone to leave the theater without humming the tunes to Nowadays and All That Jazz. They're gonna stick. And you're gonna love it. Tickets are $29-$75.

Maestro... my exit music.

Pretty please - let us know what you thought of Chicago.

Bumble and Bumble proves we can make waves without the beach

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Wed, 11 May 2011 22:38:00 +0000

The windows are open. Fresh air is wafting into my land-locked apartment for the first time this spring and my thoughts are naturally wandering to far-off beaches, a need for sunscreen and nothing to entertain me but the ocean and my iPad.

I could use some downtime in the sun and surf. And the amazing, carefree wavy hair that goes along with it. There is something magical that happens on a beach vacation. Those no makeup days where rest and relaxation leave you looking your best.

Bumble and Bumble has managed to bottle part of that secret in its Surf Spray hair styling spritz. Get surf-tousled waves and volume for days, courtesy of this salt-water spray. Don't over-do it and you could risk drying out your locks. But a little goes a long way for bounce and a wind-blown matte finish.

What beach-inspired look leaves you feeling your best?

Spring into action with Benefit's Finding Mr. Bright

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 13:25:00 +0000

I'm not sure about you but it hardly looks like spring where I live. In fact, there was a snowstorm just the other day. A full-blown snowstorm. The audacity. We could all use a little pick-me-up, whether you're celebrating the season or not.

May I suggest Benefit's collection of four great makeup bag mainstays? Finding Mr. Bright isn't just for single ladies looking for attention, either. Think of it as refining kit ready to wake up sleepy winter-work faces and bring us all back to a warmer, happier state.

Here's what it's got in store:

High Beam – A bright pink highlighter that gives any complexion a healthy glow. Set off cheekbones and your brow bone with a flash of the wand.
Erase Paste – This fantastic concealer for under eyes or anywhere. It comes complete with brightening properties to give skin a secret boost.
Posietint – Like a fresh-picked bunch of poppy flowers this spring pink will color your cheeks and lips and stay put all day.
Girl Meets Pearl – Go for the golden pink tones of this luminizer, a newer addition to the Benefit line.

Let your beauty shine through. Tell us about the products you use to add a little shimmer to the mix.

Like Pretty Please? Connect with me on Twitter @StephCasola or Facebook.

In deep - Here's a conditioning treatment that goes the distance

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:30:00 +0000

I'm prone to dry hair. There I said it. But that doesn't have to be my reality.

I discovered early on a weekly deep conditioning treatment could mean the difference between a haystack on my head and soft, manageable hair.

In the '80s I tried V05 Hot Oil. The '90s brought all-natural attempts at mashing avocados right on my noggin. Over the years I've experimented with all sorts of treatments.

Like Goldilocks, it took a few tries but eventually I happened upon just the right fit. I've upgraded to the conditioning herbs in Prive Intensive Masque. It's a thick formula made with fragrant ingredients like sesame, eucalyptus, wheat protein and lemon peel oil.

Work it in from roots to ends in the shower and leave it on for five minutes or - for ultra conditioning - add a plastic heat wrap for 15 minutes and you've got an ultimate spa treatment. Trust me, the results are worth the effort.

I snagged a 6-ounce tube at Sidney Blake Salon in Birmingham, Mich. for $29. It isn't cheap but it'll last a long time. You can find it online at Amazon.com, too.

What's your go-to deep conditioner? Leave us a hint in our comments section below, won't you?

Like Pretty Please? Connect with me on Twitter @StephCasola or Facebook.

Don't let stress sabotage your beauty routine. How do you unwind?

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 12:56:00 +0000

Photo by Kelvin255 | Flickr.com

If there is one facet of life that will sabotage your best attempts at a beauty routine, it's stress.

Maybe it's a side effect of the Spring Forward time change but I'm having trouble adjusting to my new earlier morning routine.

It's resulted in a pale face, bare nails and limp hair. When I pass a mirror I don't just look unfinished, I feel like the stress I'm feeling on the inside is just manifesting itself on the outside.

This calls for a beauty time out. My boyfriend isn't happy about it but I'm spending the night in and plan to indulge in a few key stress relievers. Here is my recipe for bringing my skin, hair, nails and self back to life.

Start with a soak: Sure it sounds cliche but a rushed shower in the morning doesn't exactly relax me. It's March and sleeting outside which calls for a bubble bath. Try Lush Vanilla Fountain for a fragrant creme brulee scented soak or Tokyo Milk's French Kiss bubble bath for a touch of luxury. Slice up some cucumbers for your eyes and do your best not to replay the events of the workday or your personal worries. Let that sink straight down the drain.

Let yourself be lazy: Dry off and put on your warmest and coziest robe. Remove nail and toe polish and rub in (a Pretty Please favorite) Lush's Lemony Flutter to get those ragged cuticles in shape. If you're like me, the more stressed you are, the more it shows on your hands. File and buff your nails back into shape. Polish and secure with a top coat so you're confined to stretch out on the couch for a full episode of the Real Housewives or Modern Family - whatever you want to watch and without a hint of guilt.

Tea and a touch up: Brew up a pot of Chamomile or peppermint tea or any other warm beverage that will soothe you without keeping you awake late into the evening. Sip it as you settle into your favorite sleepwear. Make sure to moisturize with a great all-over lotion to prepare those dry limbs for the milder weather to come. And while your hair is still damp work in an oil-based moisture treatment, like Rare Elements, that will soak in all night as you sleep and help correct any harsh damage the winter and your hair dryer and straightener might be causing.

Now that's a night in, Pretty Please-style. Do tell us, how do you unwind?

Like Pretty Please? Connect with me on Twitter @StephCasola or Facebook.

Caffeinate your makeup routine

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 12:48:00 +0000

My morning coffee really got a boost when my dearest friend Ryan sent me a surprise in the mail. The Chemex is a filter drip coffee maker that's beautiful enough to be displayed.

It takes it's place next to my French Press and espresso maker as I've never owned a traditional coffee pot (and likely never will). It also inspired me to look further into the connection between coffee and cosmetics.

Not only is coffee, or coffea arabica extract, a common ingredient in cosmetics, it's known to perk skin up with antioxidant properties.

Products like Origins' GinZing eye brightening cream contain coffee extracts that help de-puff under eye skin and keep those dark circles at bay.

In addition, coffee shades percolate throughout my makeup bag. I still love my Little Brown Dress Essie nail polish. It's a classic brown that's formal enough for the office and different enough to attract attention.

Below are a three cups of coffee-coated finds to try. They might just give your spring makeup routine a jolt:

Givenchy Rouge Interdit Shine Lipstick in Coffee Shine. This warm brown shimmer is light and moisturizing to give lips a boost for $29 bucks.
Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Liner Shadow in Coffee Bean gives eyes steamy definition for $13.
Tarina Tarantino Sparklicity Eye Shadow Palette offers an array of coffee-inspired shades suitable for a subtle or stunning smoky eye. Colors include a golden Twinkling Topaz, coffee brown Fringe, dark chocolate sparkly Brooch and shimmery pale pink Rosette.

What sort of coffee-inspired or -containing cosmetics do you covet? Pretty, please do tell. Leave us a comment.

Like Pretty Please? Connect with me on Twitter @StephCasola or Facebook.

Do you dare let your gray hair shine through?

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 18:35:00 +0000

I'll probably be one of those women who dyes her hair into old age, even when I know I'm not fooling anyone.

I'm not brave enough to let those gray roots shine. Not yet, anyway. It could change. But if we indeed take after our mothers chances are I'll be sporting chocolaty brown locks as long as science allows.

Not so for my lovely friend Becki. She's opted to let her gray hair grow out. She's not alone. Stars like Kate Moss (pictured left | photo by Getty Images) to Lady Gaga have done it.

And I have to say, Becki pulls it off in as cool a manner as any girl I know. She recently put together a resource for women who opt to let their gray hair shine - before the age of 40. Check it out here.

While I admit it's nowhere near my area of expertise, I did a little research on Becki's behalf and discovered that choosing the right shampoo can make all the difference.

Those gray tones need to be kept in check well-moisturized to avoid yellowing or drying out. Look for toning shampoos with Okara, a soybean extract, or Keratin to banish yellow tones. Frederick Fekkai makes Ageless Rejuvination Shampoo with Keratin amino acids and Shea Butter.

As with any good hair care program, a weekly deep conditioning treatment will do gray hair good, too. Try Rene Furterer Okara Restructuring and Protection Radiance Mask for that extra boost of moisture and softness.

Grays can be wiry and unruly. Keep them in check and bump up the shine factor with products like Bedhead's After-Party smoothing cream. I use it as a finishing cream when I straighten my hair. It offers a bit of extra shine and controls fly-aways.

And take care of yourself in general. Staying hydrated and eating right will give your body - and your hair - the vitamins and moisture it needs to look it's best in any shade.

Do you know some great going-gray early tips or products? Share them with us! Leave a comment below.

Like Pretty Please? Connect with me on Twitter @StephCasola or Facebook.

Tired of chipped nails? Try Shellac

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:54:00 +0000

I'm just crazy enough to be bothered by chipped nails. I think that's why I spent a few years sporting shades like Essie's Mademoiselle, a barely there baby pink that stays put and doesn't show chips as quickly as its darker companions.

My fingernails tend to chip after just a day or two of wear and tear. Typing, dishes, opening the mail – anything can harm them.

So when my friend Chiara called me on Sunday and proposed a morning of mani-pedi's at a local salon that offers Shellac manicures, I was intrigued. Also called the "no-chip" manicure, Shellac claims to keep nails looking freshly polished for up to two weeks. The gel formula stays put like acrylics but glides right onto your natural nails and strengthens them, too.

The Shellac manicure and regular pedicure cost under $50 and the best part? A Shellac manicure dries almost instantly. The base coat, color and top coat are set with UV light and dry almost immediately so you're out the door right away. There was no chance I could mess these up with my impatient purse or key-grabbing habit!

I opted for a shade that vacillates between gray and pale violet, a great transition into spring. Chiara opted for a deep vampy red. Both came out shiny and perfect-looking. I'm two days in and they still look like new. I'll be tracking their progress.

The only area of concern is the removal process. It takes a pure acetone soak to remove the gel-based formula. It must be carefully scraped free of the nail. I'm not sure I can accomplish this on my own so I may return to the salon. I'll keep you posted. I would rather remove it myself when the time comes. I'd like to have the option.

Have you tried a no-chip manicure yet? What did you think? Pretty please, do tell.

And the Grand Prize winner is...

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Sat, 26 Feb 2011 14:32:00 +0000

Who doesn't love a free salon service? There is something indulgent and relaxing about walking into a salon or spa and knowing you're there just for yourself.

It's the only time I read trashy magazines and catch up on news about celebrities I would otherwise never even care about.

Feel like a doll with a salon service. Photo by Loralei92950 | Flickr.com

There is a moment somewhere between the shampoo and cut when I am more relaxed than I can explain. So I may say that my every-six-weeks-like-clockwork visit to the salon is about keeping up my cut or keeping those grays away but it's something more than that. Do you know what I mean?

That's why I'm so glad to share the winner of our Pretty, please and Beastly Grand Prize giveaway. In addition to the preview screening tickets we shared last week, we've drawn one name at random to receive a $25 gift certificate to Douglas J Salon in Royal Oak. The prize is valid toward any service.

And the winner is.... Shauna Nicholson. Congratulations and thanks for participating! I couldn't agree more. I too was lucky enough to be born with long lashes.

A great big thanks also goes out to 43kixDetroit for making all of this possible. Connect with them on Facebook.

Shauna - we'll be in touch so we can send along the gift certificate. Congratulations and do let us know how your visit goes!

All the best,
Pretty, please

Think Pretty Please, win tickets to 'Beastly' movie preview, Douglas J gift certificate

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 14:00:00 +0000

We all grew up with the fairy tale. Who didn't think she could transform a hideous beast into a dashing gentleman just by the power of true love alone? OK that could be taking it a bit far. But next month that Disney-fied Beauty and the Beast story takes on a brave new look in the film Beastly.

About the film:

Seventeen year old Kyle (Alex Pettyfer) is the spoiled, shallow and incredibly popular prince of his high school kingdom. Entirely captivated and empowered by his own physical appearance, Kyle foolishly chooses Kendra (Mary-Kate Olsen), a goth classmate rumored to be a witch, as his latest target for humiliation. Unfazed by his cruel behavior, Kendra decides to teach him a lesson - she transforms him into someone as unattractive on the outside as he is on the inside. Now he has one year to find someone who can see past the surface and love him, or he will remain “Beastly” forever. His only hope, an unassuming classmate he never noticed named Lindy (Vanessa Hudgens), may be his best chance to prove that love is never ugly.

And those of us a bit obsessed with the makeup counter couldn't help but gush over stars Vanessa Hudgens and her dashing beast Alex Pettyfer (pictured above). Add in the delicate features of goth child Mary-Kate Olson, and you've got a pretty gorgeous cast of characters.

Though we're led to believe, through some fancy makeup-ing and camerawork, that Kyle is transformed into a hideously ugly beast, and it's really inner beauty that matters most, there are an awful lot of lovely scenes from the looks of this trailer.

Pretty, Please happens to have its hands on free tickets to an upcoming preview screening of Beastly. Would you like to see it before it opens?

If you live near the metro Detroit area, simply leave us a comment below sharing one characteristic about yourself that you find perfectly beautiful. Something you'd never change, never alter.

Be sure to include your email address so we can send you the link for your free movie ticket. (Pretty, Please will not retain or sell email addresses, we simply need a way to contact you as a winner and send you your link to a free ticket.)

Keep in mind, tickets are individual so be sure to ask your friends to participate too! Make it a girls' night out. The film is rated PG-13.

Do you have a perfect nose, long eyelashes, enviable legs, a contagious laugh? Admit it. We spend a lot of time trying to highlight the positive with beauty products – but we know you're naturally beautiful. Embrace it. Own it. Share it.

Tickets will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis to those who leave relevant remarks in our comments section below!

But wait, there's more.

We'll choose at random from the submitted comments and one lucky winner will receive a $25 gift certificate to Douglas J Salon in Royal Oak, MI. That's right - we know you deserve a little indulgence. A movie and a makeover on Pretty, Please? Who wouldn't love that in the middle of this harsh Michigan winter?

So tell us, what one thing about yourself do you find perfectly lovely, as is?

Wonder Woman powers up MAC's Spring 2011 line

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 14:57:00 +0000

For any girl who remembers the all-mighty Linda Carter with those impossible curves and impeccable looks, Wonder Woman is the ultimate superhero. A product of the late 70s I don't mind dating myself and admitting I remember Wonder Woman Underoos – complete with the cape. I watched the show with my sisters in awe of this powerful force of good. And she was a beauty too.

It may have taken a while, but MAC Cosmetics caught on. The latest collection takes us back to a time when comic book heroines could be goddesses too. Can you hear the theme music yet? I can't wait to get my hands on this stuff. The Spring 2011 MAC Collection is a throwback with bold spirit. So grab your utility belt and add a few of these gems to the mix:

Lady Justice Eye Quad:

Bright Silver and White Pearl Frosts for eyes that demand attention.

Lip Glass in Wonder Woman: Bright Red with soft pearl for lips just like Linda's!

Mineralize in Golden Lariat: This True Coral with gold shimmer and suntanned bronze will give you a goddess glow of superhero proportions.

Opulash mascara in Victorious: What's gives a girl more POP and POW than purple lashes? Give it a shot.

Penultimate eyeliner in RapidBlack: A true black liner you can apply in a dash.

Powder Blush Duo in Mighty Aphrodite: This twosome packs a punch with a warm peach coral flecked with gold pearl and a bright coral pink with gold pearl.

Reflects Glitter in Pearl: Sometimes you need a little otherworldly sparkle. This white pearl wonder will do the trick. Highlight your brow bone, cheekbones or just have fun with it.

The MAC Wonder Woman collection hits MAC Cosmetic stores and a makeup counter near you on Feb. 10, 2011 – just in time for Valentine's Day! I'm in love already.

Rough cuticles are just a citrusy shot from softness

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 23:50:00 +0000

It's the doldrums of winter – January in Detroit. It doesn't get much more gray and blustery cold than this. And last night as I tucked myself under the covers I detected the roughest sound my delicate hands could muster. My fingertips and cuticles were snagging my softest blanket.

Unacceptable I muttered.

That's when I knew winter had gotten the best of me. I can always tell when I'm stressed – my cuticles tell the story. Dry, cracked and crying out for moisture I searched the stacks of beauty remedies for sustenance.

There it was, my simple little black tub of Lush Handmade Cosmetics' Lemony Flutter. The pale buttery cream was just the regimen I needed to re-instate to get my fingertips back in typing shape.

Lemon-infused Shea butter with lavender, mango butter and chamomile makes all the difference. And it's not limited cuticle use, either. Try it on dry skin trouble spots like elbows and knees and you'll see what I mean.

Now if I could just refrain from taking those long hot showers on these cold days, maybe I wouldn't have these problems in the first place!

What cuticle creams do you rely on to keep your fingers looking and feeling fabulous? Pretty please do tell.

What's the most unusual beauty gift you've received? I can top it.

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 21:19:00 +0000

My fellow beauty addicts, when it comes to birthdays and holidays I'm sure we all receive our fair share of fancy products. I love unwrapping all the candy-scented candles I can handle. This Christmas I happily received at least three – a chocolate cupcake, handmade lavender and ylang ylang and one scented like a peppermint candy cane. Yum.

Even my pre-teen nieces have joined in the act. They lavished me with makeup and gingerbread soaps. Ah they know me well. But there is occasionally a gift related to beauty that blows me away. Something beyond the champagne bubble baths and beautiful face creams. Something unexpected.

This year, it was a cow.

Yes, a cow. A piece of art really, something kitschy and clever to highlight my makeup collection obsession, courtesy of my lovely and always fun friend Meghan.

Check out the high heel-slipper wearing, be-toweled cow in her robe with a copy of Cowsmopolitan.

She's in the middle of a blue clay face masque with cucumber slices on her eyes and has a back full of brushes and beauty goods. Like me, she's ready for a day at the spa.

I think my Cowsmopolitan friend serves as whimsical a reminder to take it easy once in a while. Book that spa day, that massage. Don't feel guilty about getting your roots done, buying that lipstick, or your hair straightened. It's a break from the routine and you deserve it.

What little things do you do to take a break from the every day? Pretty please do tell.

Beauty Resolution: Don't weigh your hair down

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Angelyn Casola) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 21:07:00 +0000

Hair care sure can be tricky. If your locks are anything like mine, you can't just wash them and go. Oh how I envy those women with poker-straight hair or cork screw curls.

My hair has a wave I refer to as naturally frizzy. It can't be left to its own devices. It's course and dry and all these years I've been doting on it with moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, hot oil treatments and masques.

When really, I was weighing it down. My stylist found a great combination that involves a lighter conditioner – so light I have to comb through my locks carefully. But it turns out, I have volume after all!

Kerastase Lait Vital offers nourishment that's light as air. It moisturizes and conditions but leaves my hair bouncy, shiny and healthy.

Once out of the shower, hair needs protection before you style. That's a no-brainer. But frizz-free products can hold you back too. I've been a longtime fan of Moroccan Oil. It sinks right into your strands without looking oily and protects them from heat and styling. It adds shine and makes styling a cinch. So when my stylist suggested I try the new Moroccan Oil Light variety, I thought.. hmm. What's that?

As a brunette, I was skeptical the product might be meant for blondes only. But it's actually also lighter in texture, too. Just as effective and a touch lighter on my hair? It's a great option.

What products have you found that simply transform your hair? Pretty please do tell us.