When browsing through the Rach B Jewelry collection, it is evident that designer Rachel Bommer has an eye for design and passion for amazing jewelry.  From chic statement necklaces to eye-catching earrings, Rach B Jewelry has it all.

There is something magical about talking to someone who loves what they do and finds beauty all around them.  I am happy to share my interview with the classy and talented Rach B with you.

What got you started as a jewelry designer?

I am a fashion design graduate. I was always attracted to making/ designing things as a child. As much as I loved designing clothes, I enjoyed jewelry making more because of the instant gratification aspect. I started making simple jewelry at the age of four. In grade school, I would sell my creations in the lunchroom. By high school, I was selling jewelry in local salons and in my high school’s office. Although it makes me cringe now, I still can’t believe what a little entrepreneur I was at a young age.

If you had to define Rach B Jewelry in one sentence, what would it be?

Rach B Jewelry fuses timeless, high-end looks that can be worn with a white tank top or little black dress–at accessible prices.

What do you enjoy most about designing jewelry?

I enjoy that the second I get a vision or idea, I am able to make it right away. Very gratifying.

Where do you find inspiration when creating new pieces?

I would go crazy if I didn’t set limits for each collection I design. I first figure out which handful of stones I am using.  From there, the stones and chains inspire me just by playing around with ideas and proportions.

Which Rach B item do you find yourself wearing again and again?

I wear my multi-stone earrings (seen here) ALL the time with a tank top or little black dress.  For the past 3 1/2 years, and currently on the 7th collection, I have designed the same multi-stone earrings, simply incorporating the new color or stone for the new season. They are my best sellers, too.  Irresistible, I’d say.

Could you offer a few tips on wearing jewelry?

Don’t wear it all at once! If you wear large earrings, go for a bracelet. Wearing a big necklace ?  Go with studs.  Keep it at one statement piece that complements your outfit best.

You can buy Rachel B’s jewelry online.

Great things have happened for Gail Schneider since we last spoke in 2007. Gail is an inspiration to women who want to follow their dreams. This time, she’s back to talk about career changes, beauty and brows!

What inspired you to change careers?

I’ve always been obsessed with designing eyebrows, and when I moved to New York City in 2008, I had to make a decision:  “Do I continue with my fashion line, Gail Schneider Designer tops, or do I pursue my other passion, brow shaping?”  I knew my tops had reached a pivotal point that year when Miss USA contestants modeled them in fashion Rocks the Universe in Las Vegas.  I was watching my tops on that stage, with so much excitement.  But, when I arrived in New York, I knew in my heart that it was time to take advantage of other dreams I wanted to make come true, which included opening Wow Brows studio.  I went back to school for a year to obtain my New York state license. I put age aside,  following my passion.  I quickly realized that “when there is a will, there’s a way.”

What is your favorite part about owning Wow Brows?

I enjoy working with people who place an emphasis on their looks and maintain their highest self image.  I feel it’s an honor to be able to contribute in meeting their expectations and exceeding them.  I get to meet the most wonderful people who put their trust in my hands.  I always take before and after photos, and when I show the clients the end result, I love it when they say, “WOW!”

What is in demand the most in your shop?

Men and women come to me on many occasions faced with past mistakes, such as over tweezed or uneven brows.  I find that much of my attention is directed to repairing these issues by creating maximum balance. As an artist, I shape their brows to match their facial features using organic wax, tweezing, and trimming.  I go through the client’s concerns and discuss the areas that need work.   I do; however, tend to be subtle, as I like to keep brows as natural as possible.  I believe that eyebrows should always be classy and never a trend.

Could you offer a few tips on brow shaping?

Be careful not to over do the tweezing of eyebrows for fear that it could result in wide set or bald spots, which in most cases cannot be resolved.  Besides, brows that are too thin can add years to your appearance and usually will not grow back.

Where can our New York and jet setting readers find you so they can set up an appointment?

My studio is located in Park Slope, Brooklyn (about 15 minutes from Manhattan).  Appointments can be made by emailing wowbrowstudio@yahoo.com or by calling (617) 763-7405.  I am at the studio on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11:00  a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Style Epiphany has partnered with Sale.com to offer an exclusive interview with Anna McCraney, who is amongst other things, Season 1 winner of “The Fashion Show” and guest blogger at Sale.com.  Together, we are happy to offer you expert advice on saving money on those wardrobe staples you just have to have.

What classic wardrobe pieces should every woman own?

Classic wardrobe pieces are a must for every woman looking to complete their closet. What makes shopping for the essentials so exciting is that stores now offer incredible sales making your shopping experience that much more affordable. Ladies, put on your fabulous shopping shoes and hunt for the perfect high waisted skirt. Make sure the front lays flat on your body and hugs you in all the right places; leaving you with a seamless look. Next, pick up a great black blazer. Make sure it is tailored to your body shape and highlights your figure by creating curves and showing off your sexy physique. Finish off your look by cinching your waist with a gorgeous medium thickness elastic neutral colored belt. Mix and match these pieces with everything from a great pair of denim to your favorite dress for a night out.

Can you offer tips on obtaining these pieces without spending a fortune?

There are so many stores to choose from when it comes to bargain shopping. Definitely hit up the online sales for bargains you wont find in your everyday store. If you feel like going bargain hunting, H&M is the perfect spot. They offer so many takes on current trends for affordable prices. The basics are always available in plenty of different variations. American Apparel has the best selection around when it comes to hunting for the classics. They offer so many colors in every style that it makes it a definite one-stop-shop. Target is always a favorite. They make quality affordable clothing with style in mind. If you feel like spending a little more dough, stop by shopbop or Net-a-Porter for some high fashion designer duds.

What do you recommend for women who want to achieve a trendier celebrity look for less, while still making the look their own?

Looking to celebrities for inspiration is always a blast. To make it your own, I recommend adding your own element. Throw on your favorite scarf before you leave the house, add a colorful belt, and throw on a ’stand-out’ necklace. Topshop has amazing accessories for super cheap prices. Stop by and start forming your own collection of fun ‘add-ons’.

For fun, what is the last budget-friendly wardrobe piece you purchased for yourself?

Urban Outfitters always has easy and fun shift dresses. They come in various silks and jerseys with different prints that you won’t see coming and going. I most recently purchased a great Antics dress with a thin black and white stripe detail-great for layering. Another recent steal was an 80’s inspired vintage jumpsuit that looks adorable with some chunky heels. I cant wait to break it out!

Are you getting your beauty sleep? Remember my rave review of the Select Comfort Pillow? Well, Select Comfort Director of Sleep Innovation and Clinical Research and sleep expert, Pete Bils, is here to offer you some additional ways to get that extra hour of sleep needed.  Check out these great sleep tips:

• Make sleep a priority: Put “getting 8 hours of sleep” at the top of your to-do list. Try it for a week and see what difference it makes in how you feel and perform—that might be motivation enough to figure out how to do it full-time! Most of us are so sleep deprived, we’ve forgotten what it’s like to be fully rested and alert.

• Establish a bedtime routine: Bedtime isn’t just for kids. Adults should identify a bedtime that gives them 7.5-8 hours of sleep each night, and then stick to it — even on the weekends.

• Don’t boil the ocean: If you need to add an extra hour of sleep to get the recommended 8 hours, and can’t– split the difference. Go to bed a half hour earlier and wake a half hour later.

• Pay attention to your environment: Get into sleep mode by dimming or turning off all lights in your home one hour before bed time. Get in a dim, quiet room and turn off all screens (TV, phone, video game, etc.). This will help you unwind from the day and make falling asleep easier.

• Avoid anti-sleep activities: Don’t eat, exercise or consume caffeine near bedtime.

• Check your bed and pillow: Take advantage of innovations in bedding that allow you to customize your comfort, like the Sleep Number bed that is clinically proven to decrease back pain and Sleep Number bedding accessories.

I am happy to share my interview with Alexis Frey, co-founder of life/after/denim, with you. This men’s apparel brand provides classic pieces to wear with or without your denim. Shop life/after/denim to discover that there really is life — and style — after denim.

What makes life/after/denim stand out in the sea of LA labels?

We’re proud to be based in LA, but we’re not really an “LA” brand. The look is very much a blend of East Coast and West Coast vibes, and the line is inspired by fashion, art, and music from all over the place. We’re all from different places like New York City, Hong Kong, Ohio, and Arizona. I hope we stand out precisely because of those things, as well as because of our superior quality and realistic price tags. We also don’t make any denim items. Instead, we make a wardrobe that compliments denim.

Could you describe the exact moment in time when your four founders decided to turn the concept of life/after/denim into a reality?

Well, we had this idea and we could feel that the market was getting ready for it. We saw the niche in the men’s contemporary market for a high quality collection of non-denim pieces at approachable prices. With the economic crisis on the horizon, it was actually a great time for us to launch.

What has been the best part about co-founding this brand?

Forgive the cliché but, making our dreams come true. And learning the power of team work.

What are some of life/after/denim’s most popular pieces, and why do you think they are the best sellers?

Our tops and jackets are popular because they go great with denim. Our pants and chinos fit fantastically and look good on everyone.

Could you give our male readers a tip on choosing non-denim wardrobe pieces?

Denim is great, but chinos are sexy, too! Just be current, comfortable, and effortless. That’s what looks cool.

The holidays are on their way!  Enjoying the festivities is much easier when we can step confidently into our roles of  hosts and hostesses.  I am excited to share my interview with Jorge Perez, a popular entertainment expert, who is here with tips that will help us impress our holiday guests this season.  With help from an expert, our 2009 parties are sure to reach new levels of greatness.

How did you become an entertainment expert?

I was brought up in a home where etiquette and fine manners were always first and foremost. And when it came to entertaining my parents always did it with the utmost of style. Although there were 3 boys in the house, there was always a sense of formality no matter how casual the occasion. I learned early on the importance of using the proper tools when entertaining. The way you entertain is a reflection of who you are. There is no better way to express your sense of style and creativity then at your table.

One of my favorite parts of my job is that I am able to work with the most beautiful tabletop and gift products in the world. My job takes me around the country and involves many social functions. I particularly enjoy sharing my knowledge of entertaining and bridal registry via TV shows, magazine interviews, blogs and personal appearances.

What are some of the biggest mistakes people tend to make when entertaining for the holidays?

Forgetting to have a good time and simple principles such as stocking up with the tools needed to entertain from platters to barware, candles, linens, and all the other essentials you will need. I love Bloomingdale’s for all my entertaining needs. With the very best assortment anywhere, they have all that I need to Entertain with Style.

Your china, crystal, flatware, and linens should be of good quality and enduring style. Stick to manufacturers like Waterford, Wedgwood, and Royal Doulton and you will entertain for years with confidence. You will love it for life.

What are 3 of the most important things to remember when entertaining for the holidays?

Here are some stress-free tips for your holiday dinner parties:

1.  Set up your flowers ahead of time so you can enjoy them for a few days and the buds will be open for the party. Your Waterford crystal fluted champagne glasses make great trumpet vases.

2.  Set up your table and bar ahead of time (no more then 2 days early for dust purposes). Remember; “Your Table is Your Label”. It tells your story and helps set the tone for an event. Take a look at any tablescape designed by famed NYC-based event designer David Beahm and you will know the power of a well-designed table.

3.  Lots of candles. You can never have too many. They help set the mood and we all know that everyone looks better in candlelight! Did you know that you can turn over any Waterford glass and you have an instant 3” pillar candleholder? And your Wedgwood fine bone china teacups make beautiful glowing votives.

Do you have any extra special tips that will wow our holiday guests?

1.  Wow your guests with a glass of champagne the moment they walk in. I always have a separate champagne station by the front door which includes an assortment of different champagne glasses to kick off the evening the moment my guests walk in.

2.   Impress your guests by using your things in unconventional ways. Pour popcorn out of your pitchers. Turn your Waterford footed cake plate upside down and serve chip-n-dip, shrimp cocktail or chocolate and strawberries. Use your bud vases and posy vases to pour peanuts and M+M’s. Have fun!

3.  Never let your guests walk away without a gift to commemorate the evening, like a holiday ornament or a homemade treat with recipe card.

– Always Entertain with Style!  Jorge

Welcome to the world of Poppy King, Lipstick Queen, where glamour and lipstick reign supreme!  I am delighted to share my interview with this author and entrepreneur, whose intoxicating personality and love of beauty is seen in everything (and on everyone) wearing the  Lipstick Queen name.

With a name like Lipstick Queen, you obviously love lipstick! What fuels your love of lipstick?

It is so much more than a cosmetic, it is a rite of passage and it has the ability to transform the way you see and you feel about yourself.

Could you tell us about that epiphany moment when you decided to turn your passion for lipstick into a business?
It was when I was disappointed that I couldn’t find a gorgeous matte lipstick which had the glamour of the 1940’s. I had just graduated from high school and had not got into my college of choice when one day when I was shopping for lipstick one of the sales reps behind the counter said to me when I asked her for matte lipsticks that if she “had a dollar for every time someone asked her for a matte lipstick she would be rich.” I realized there and then that I could try to start my own lipstick brand.

What is your favorite part of owning your own brand, Lipstick Queen?

The other women I have met along the way and hearing their stories about the roles lipstick has played in their lives.

Which Lipstick Queen shade is your best seller? Which one do you find yourself wearing most?

We have a shade called Medieval which is very sheer red tint that makes your lips look like they have a slight red flush to them. I myself wear Red Sinner most which is the full strength red and takes some getting used to if you are not a red wearer like I am.

Could you share a bit about your new gloss, Fired Up and the cause it supports?

It is a super bright but super sheer fire engine red lip gloss designed to give you the full confidence boost that wearing red lip color gives. I have designed it to be sheer enough to suit everyone. 100% of the profits goes to an amazing not for profit organization, Count Me In, for women’s economic independence, which inspires, assists, educates and arms women entrepreneurs. Women play such a huge role in stimulating the economy and I wanted to recognize their talent and strength and let them in on how red can help you get out there!

Do you have any lipstick advice for our readers?

Yes…try wearing lipstick with as minimal eye makeup as you are comfortable with. That way it looks super modern and super chic and you can wear more color on the lips without it looking overdone.

Jillian Veran

Have you heard about Prescriptives‘ new line of foundation that is dedicated to helping 100% of women find their perfect foundation shade?  Prescriptives guarantees that they can provide you with the exact shade and finish that is right for you.  And Prescriptives Director of Artistry, Jillian Veran, has answered some of our most burning foundation questions.  Please do take notes!

1. Do different skin types need different foundation formulas?

Absolutely – the environment can affect how our skin behaves so the same skin can even need different types of foundation during the year. In today’s beauty world there are so many options, the best thing to do is to address what you want and need from your foundation. Do you like a sheer, luminous, satin or matte finish? Do you like liquid, cream or powder formulas? And of course what is your skin type – normal, dry, oily, combination?

2. What is the best way to apply foundation?
Applying foundation is a personal preference and each method creates a different finish. Using your fingers will allow for a sheerer finish; a sponge is a little tricky for a non-makeup artist as it can place a lot of foundation in one spot so be sure to move quickly across the areas you are applying to; a brush is always great as it helps you create a very smooth even finish.  Also, I always recommend using the Px Buff Brush after your foundation is dry to soften the look of the makeup and create a sheer air brushed effect.

3. If I’m testing foundation in a department store, is it ok to do a swatch on my hand? Or should I always test the foundation on my face?

The best and most accurate way to test foundation is on the side of the face along the jaw line. Stick to this method for fool proof matching.

4. If my skin tone is between foundation shades, what’s the best solution?

Prescriptives Custom Blend Foundation is ideal for this. Your foundation can be blended not only to exactly match your skin’s own unique undertones, but also to create whatever finish and skin care needs you desire.

5. What foundations are best for acne prone skin? For dry skin? For mature skin?

All skin types should start with a foundation primer like Px Flawless Face Primer. This will allow the makeup to wear longer and for a seamless finish.

Dry skin should wear a moisture based formula and should steer away from powder formulas. But if you prefer powder, use a soft cream-to-powder formula like PhotochromeLight-Adjusting Compact Makeup SPF 15.

Normal skin can wear whatever they like, it’s all about preference.

Oily or acne prone skin should wear an oil-free formula. Powder foundation is great for this type of skin.

Mature skin must be hydrated before applying any foundation. The foundation shouldn’t be too matte or heavy as this can accentuate the age of the skin.

Prescriptives behind the scenes

6. Do foundations with sunscreen provide enough protection? Should I need to wear extra sunscreen?

Sun damage is the leading cause of aging. So no, using foundation as sunscreen isn’t the best idea. Foundation doesn’t provide a full mask on the skin so the sun will get through.  Always use an SPF under your foundation for that extra layer of protection. I highly recommend Prescriptives All-Weather FriendDaily UVA/UVB Sun Protection SPF 40 as it’s incredibly lightweight and feels great under foundation.

*See beautiful behind the scenes footage of the Prescriptives All Skins photoshoot *here*!

It is an honor to share my interview with Gail Schneider of Gail Schneider Designs with you. Gail creates tops that are enjoyed by women of all ages and an be purchased on the Gail Schneider Designs website.

Could you share a bit about yourself and your background in the fashion world?

I was born in Israel, and brought up in NYC. At 17 I returned with my family to Israel, completed the mandatory 2 year army service, and enrolled in FIT. Just before I had to leave for NY, I met my husband Mickey, and we settled down in Eilat, the southernmost town of Israel. It seemed that my passion to study Fashion Designing was never the “right time” as I worked many years in the corporate world. Six years ago, I realized that my son and daughter were growing up, so decided to finally follow my dream by turning my hobby into a full time business by designing distinctive and trendy tank tops. I believed in my concept so much, and went in with such passion that the unique designs were quickly recognized.

How did Gail Schneider Designs come about?

From the moment I set my mind to begin my venture, I could not stop. I was focusing on understanding the market demand, and combining it with my creations. I wanted to design tops that are catered for the multi-generation. In 2005, When my husband was relocated to Boston from Israel, I found myself facing several new challenges once again – this time it including the 4 seasons! In Israel there are mainly 2 seasons – winter and summer. Since summer is much longer in the Israel, tank tops are always in demand, and a crucial part of every woman’s closet. I had to learn about the local market, and still believed that tank tops can be sold all year round after all. I recently launched my website store enabling women to purchase my line both nationally and internationally.

Who are some of the celebrities that wear Gail Schneider Designs?

I was really lucky with the right friends and clients, and found that “a friend brought a friend,” which was like a domino affect. I was so excited when I saw my top for the first time on national television in Israel worn by my favorite news anchor! After that, Elite models showcased my shirts for the Top Model competition…Demi Moore and Britney Spears…just to name a few.

Do you have anything else you would like to share with our readers?

My venture brought me to believe that nothing can stop us women! When there is a will, there is a way! Twelve years ago I had an open heart surgery to close a heart murmur that was detected at the time. I have been working closely with the American Heart Association, Go Red for Women Campaign since I arrived in the States, and design a customized top to raise awareness and fund for this cause. I believe in responsible retail, and am involved with many non-profit organizations to help make a change.