Paris Hilton's Twisted Heart

Caught on Robertson Blvd. in Beverly Hills, Paris Hilton. That little matching set she's wearing is by Twisted Heart and it is as far removed from a conventional tracksuit as you can get. Check out the little gold heart studs. You can get the fleece jacket, with its ¾ Dolman sleeves “Wallace Vintage” and the fleece cropped pants, “Morgan Vintage” at Nordstrom.com. The jacket retails for $132, the pants for $114. BTW, we think Hilton looks way better in this understated way (ie no make-up) -- the outfit and purse and gold Tory Burch flats are little urban fab. We realized that this pic is more flattering than the average Hilton photos because she's not posing.

Grenier's Alter Eco

Adrian Grenier is featured in Alter Eco. This exclusive new series shows viewers how easy it is to embrace the green life and reduce their carbon footprint – all with a sense of sustainable style. Featuring Grenier and three of his environmentally-conscious friends, the series takes a look at everyday, eco-friendly choices on all levels. From the complete environmental renovation of an L.A. home to a surprise visit to a busy family striving to be kinder to the planet, this 13-part series is sure to entertain viewers representing all shades of green. Alter Eco (formerly called ‘The Green Life’) premieres on Monday, June 9, at 9 PM (ET/PT) on Planet Green. In addition, a sneak preview of Alter Eco will air on Planet Green’s launch night on June 4 at 10 PM (ET/PT).

Alter Eco introduces Grenier’s one-of-a-kind ‘Green Team’, a cast of eco-visionaries that include charismatic green guru Boise Thomas, sustainable style expert and fashion model Angela Lindvall and eco-renovation master Darren Moore. The team’s mission is to help all kinds of folks—from celebrities to average Joes—take small steps to live more earth-friendly lifestyles. The three take on unique tasks such as overhauling a trendy L.A. hotspot with salvaged materials to hopping on their snowboards for “slope testing” in the latest in sustainable gear.

With so many people striving to be more environmentally friendly, Alter Eco helps guide greenie hopefuls with fun and fashionable suggestions to incorporate the eco-friendly movement into their lives. This series illustrates how each and every person can make green a part of their life that is simple, fun and good for Mother Earth.

Adrian Grenier is best known for his role as Vincent Chase in HBO’s hit series “Entourage.” Most recently, he was seen in Woody Allen's “Anything Else” and “Love in the Time of Money”, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. A filmmaker, Grenier has written and directed several short films and a documentary, “Shot in the Dark..” A self-taught musician, Grenier attended Manhattan's prestigious LaGuardia High School for Music & Art and the Performing Arts and plays in the band The Honey Brothers.

The Girl with Eight Limbs

Sunday, June 22, at 9:00 PM ET/PT (World Premiere) on the National Geographic Channel

Her name is Lakshmi — born in one of India’s most remote villages. And at 2 years old, she became a global sensation. To some, she was the Hindu goddess of wealth and fortune incarnate; but to doctors, she was a toddler with a rare physical abnormality that could prove fatal. Now, from behind the media glare, NGC tells Lakshmi’s incredible story with exclusive access to her family, her doctor and their controversial decision to attempt a medical procedure never before performed in India. Narrated by Emmy award-winning actress Sela Ward, the documentary includes heartfelt interviews with Lakshmi’s parents before, during and after the surgery, and candid discussions with her doctor. The show also uses CGI and Lakshmi’s X-rays to illustrate the remarkable medical case and the operation. (Narrated by Sela Ward)

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Happy Memorial Day!!

Sew a Euro Hem,

a Tricky Hem, an

Original Hem On Jeans

We researched this, crafted this piece and actually followed the directions and lo, and behold, it actually worked. We used it to Euro-hem a pair of Bella Elemento jeans, as well as a pair of Pine IV. They'd both been hemmed professionally and (we blame ourselves) were just too long. We only have a couple of pairs of shoes that we could actually wear and walk in with them. We realized that since we've adjusted our day job, we are much more casual and more often wear lower heels. So, we're quite proud of this accomplishment and, since we don't have access to our sewing machine (o.k., we can't find it) we sewed it by hand.

Since this article wasn't used for the intended purpose, its purpose has now been altered to edify BeansTalk readers. So check it out and use this for reference. Feel free to pass the info (if it's useful to you) onto others.

A Euro or European hem is also be called an original or a tricky hem and will give the appearance of the original factory hem. The other option is to hem the pants by simply folding and sewing -- and the result will be a hem that looks like you sewed it in junior-high sewing class.

Those of us who can't boast a 34" inseam (the standard for more jeans) and want a stylish jean, can either give up the $15 to $25 it costs to have a tailor use the original hem on your jeans or you can do it yourself.

Hemming pants to the right length, and with the original hem can be a challenge, but if you don't rush through this project, you'll be pleased with the results and get better at the Euro hem the more you practice.

How to...

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

needle & thread (to mach the thread on your original jeans)
or a sewing machine
tape measure
iron

How to Hem Jeans With a Euro Hem, a Tricky Hem or an Original Hem

Step 1:
Wash and dry jeans, at least once, before hemming.

Step 2:
Measure the original length and figure out exactly the length you want.

Step 3:
Divide the number of inches or centimeters you need cut off in half.

Step 4:
Cuff pant leg. Take the above number (half of what you actually want) from the original hem line. Pin the cuff where you want it. (In calculating, don’t include the hem to the end of the jean.)

Step 5:
Pin around the cuff, and measure with each pin.

Step 6:
Take care around the side seams while pinning. The seam stitching must line up on either side.

Step 7: Sew right next to the original hem (this works with a sewing machine or for hand sewing). Stitch on the right side of the hem, or the side farthest from the bottom of the jean. Sew all the way around the cuff. Be sure the sewing machine runs s-l-o-w-l-y through the double thickness of seams at the sides and inseams.

Step 8:
Cut the excess off. Leave approximately a half-inch for fraying,Be sure to finish the seams with serging or a zig-zag stitch or buy some Fray-check at your local fabric shop. (If you don't finish the edges, bear in mind they'll further fray with washing; this isn't the time to cut corners.).

Step 9:
Turn the leg right side out and iron the new seam flat, revealing the old hem.

Tips

• For flared legs: cut off hem an inch above the stitched hemline. Measure the hem’s circumference. Measure the circumference of the jean and the desired length to be hemmed. Open the side seam of the jean several inches above where you want the jean to be hemmed. Take in the jean to the same circumference as the hem. Make the transformation gradual. Reattach the hem portion as above. If the jean leg is more than 1.5″ larger than the circumference of the hem, it’s not recommended to use this method.
• Since jeans are a thick material, and subsequently doubled over the seam, this can be a particular challenge. If machine sewing, use a larger needle. What we did is sew twice-over on either side of the seam rather than trying to sew on the seams. You can also machine stitch the hem, and leave the seam sides to be hand sewn (as indicated above).
• Some experts suggest you practice on a pair of old jeans before you begin to sew those $200-plus.
  
• After all, practice makes perfect.

Reflexology: A Great Gift to Give

Who Doesn't Like a Good Foot Rub?

Even if you're ticklish, a good therapist can perform little luxuries on your feet. We recently discovered a foot-massage place in West L.A. ($28 an hour) and found out that there are a bunch of them in the San Gabriel Valley. Someday we'll go there with BeansTalk's CFO (who works there) and do a foot-massage tour.

For now, here's an article we wrote about Reflexology and how to give one, which we think of as purposeful massage. Father's Day is coming up and this might be a fun gift to offer your hublet, make a nice card and include a "gift certificate" for your services.

Reflexology, a non-invasive Holistic treatment, works to stimulate areas on the feet that correspond to different parts of the anatomy. In Reflexology, nerve endings on the feet correspond to organs and glands within the body. When pressure is applied to these nerve endings on the foot, it provides therapy to the areas of the body specific to the foot nerve endings.

Reflexology has a documented history going back 5,000 years. But the actual term “reflexology” was coined in the early 20th century in the U.S.

And reflexology feels great, even if while receiving the treatment, you’ may not be aware of which area of your body is benefiting from the therapist’s touch. It’s a great gift to give, once you learn just how to do it. Start by getting a professional reflexology treatment so you can experience it and look closely at a reflexology foot chart (a sample of one is shown in an image here). Then, you’ll no doubt find a willing subject.

Ideally, the person being massaged should be seated in a recliner or an arm chair with an ottoman. The reflexologist (in this case, you) can sit on a small stool in from of their feet.

You’ll Need:

• basin of hot water (optional)
  towels (optional)
  massage oil (optional)

Give the Gift of a Reflexology Massage

Step 1:
Get a basin (professional therapists often use wood basins with a large plastic bag as a liner) and fill it with water as hot as your “client” can stand it. Some places put in a tea bag, others use fresh flowers, or bath salts. Have the person soak their feet for about five to 10 mins. Cover their legs with a bath towel.

Step 2:
Gently dry feet with a soft towel.

Step 3:
Place a feet on your thigh, work on the feet on the ottoman or hold the foot up.

Step 4:
Start by taking your thumb and moving in a small circular pattern around each area of the sole. Press firmly, with your hands and fingers, using a pulsing, on/off pressure. Oil/lotion is optional.

Step 5:
Start just below the balls of the feet, which corresponds with the solar plexus.

Step 6:
Move to an other area by inching your thumb. Continue to press firmly, using a pulsing on/off pressure, while making a circular pattern.

Step 7:
Proceed slowly and patiently, experimenting to find a comfortable pressure. Ask if the pressure is ok. Painful places may indicate an imbalance or ailment in the related organ or body system. (For example, rub under the little toe at the “root,” if the client experiences a sharp pain, that directly correlates to their left shoulder.

Step 8:
Concentrate on tender areas and trouble spots, building pressure as you go along.

Step 9:
Spend five to 10 minutes on each foot, initially, building to more time as you become more familiar with the areas of the feet that are corresponding to various parts of the body (this will come from a greater understanding of the foot reflexology chart).

Step 10:
Tell clients to wear comfortable shoes, drink water or decaffeinated drinks and to avoid alcohol. Experts say this promotes the detoxification process and help the body to eliminate the toxins that have been released.

Tips

• Those who poo-poo alternative treatments may be surprised to know that a study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that women with PMS who underwent 30-minute reflexology treatments for two months experienced a 46-percent reduction in symptoms, and maintained the benefits for two months following treatment.
• You can also give a very rudimentary reflexology treatment by using the technique on feet without the preliminary foot bath and lotion/oil.
  
• You can also do self-reflexology, using the technique on yourself.
• Even though an area of pain is associated with distress in another part of the body, you should take care not to injure, the goal of reflexology is one of treatment and relaxation.

Spinal Tap's Nigel on Stonehenge
Actor Christopher Guest Reprises His Satirical “Spinal Tap” Role To Help National Geographic Channel Decode The Mysteries Behind Stonehenge Spoof Interview Featured in Five Viral Clips Found on www.StonehengeDecoded.com

Stonehenge is one of the most iconic structures in the world. People have speculated about its purpose for centuries, associating the structure with everyone from King Arthur’s magician, Merlin, to the druids and the sun god Apollo. Now faux rockstar Nigel Tufnel — portrayed by actor Christopher Guest from the landmark cult comedy, “This is Spinal Tap” — lends his opinions on who created Stonehenge, and why, in an exclusive online interview with National Geographic Channel (NGC).

Claiming he knows the name of the single man responsible for the construction of Stonehenge, Tufnel sits down with a journalist to answer some hard-hitting questions and takes viewers on an exclusive tour of his garage, where he conducts “decoder” experiments to provide evidence for the true purpose of Stonehenge.

The spoof interviews are online at www.StonehengeDecoded.com and on various websites. The viral spots are intended to drive awareness for NGC’s upcoming show Stonehenge Decoded, which presents an exclusive look at groundbreaking evidence that places this ancient monument at the center of one of the largest prehistoric religious complexes in the world. Premiering Sunday, June 1, 2008, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, Stonehenge Decoded details the first proof of a 4,500-year-old Stone Age settlement just a few miles from Stonehenge, with a mysterious near-replica of Stonehenge made of wood at its center.

Best known for his ensemble mockumentaries, including Waiting for Guffman, and Best in Show, Guest wrote the script and starred in the cult classic “This is Spinal Tap” in 1984.

Stonehenge Decoded premieres Sunday, June 1, 2008, at 9 p.m. ET/PT

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tarte Offers Free Eyelash Curler
Double Click Image to View. Visit www.tarte.com for more details.

Summer Hair Care Tips
From Adrian De Berardinis

Tip #1: For Curly Hair
“The best way to deal with curly hair,” says Adrian, “is to embrace it! Curly hair needs less moisture in the summertime because the air is more humid. The trick is to eliminate as much frizz as possible.” Cocktail a curling cream like Kerastase Oleo-Curl with drops of a shine serum like John Freida Frizz-Ease liberally to very wet - not damp - hair and distribute evenly throughout, working from root to tip. Then loosen the hair by running your fingers through it. “If curly hair is styled when it’s very wet, the integrity of the curl is maintained and curls separate more easily,” says Adrian. To enhance curls at the crown and around the face where frizz is prone to form, take small sections and wind each one around a finger and release it. Then, carefully defuse the sections using a diffuser attachment on your blow-dryer on high heat and medium speed until half dry. You can now walk out the door and the warm air will dry the rest.

Tip #2: The Easy Up-Do
Adrian reveals the secret to recreating a salon-perfect up-do: “Don’t make it too perfect! The look this season is effortless and easy.” First, roughly dry hair that has been primed with a product like a root-lifting Kerastase Volumeactive Spray or a smoothing serum like Kerastase Oleo-Relax. Then, loosely pull back the hair into a ponytail using your fingers. You can make it as smooth or as textured as you wish. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around itself into a bun using 5-8 bobby-pins to secure, depending on thickness of your hair. Lastly, spray the up-do with a light hold hairspray and be prepared for the compliments to roll in.

Tip #3: The Beautiful Blow-out
To get a bouncy blow-out in less time, Adrian recommends applying an anti-frizz serum like Kerastase Oleo-Relax and a styling mousse like Kerastase Mousse Nutri-Sculpt from root to tip to damp hair. Then, flipping your head upside down, use your fingers and a blow-dryer to remove 80% of the moisture. Flipping your head upright, start from the front and move towards the back continuing to dry your hair using a round brush for a smoothing effect. Finish the process with a sealant or shine serum and a light aerosol hairspray.

Tip #4: Tight-on-Time Tip
Running late? Here’s a quick and easy styling technique to take you from day to night. “If you’ve just jumped out of the shower,” explains Adrian, “apply a favorite hair-care product and slick your hair back into a ponytail. Twist the ponytail into a bun, secure it with a few bobby-pins and VOILA! You’re out the door!” This will give you a clean, sophisticated look for the day. Then, once your hair is completely dry, you can take it down and loosen it using your fingers to get playful waves. This is the perfect summer style for wherever the evening may take you!

De Berardinis Salon is located at 155 West 21st Street between 6th and 7th Avenues in NYC. Hair cuts range from $100 to $200. Single process color begins at $95. Highlights begin at $170 and blowouts, at $50. The retail area exclusively offers Kerastase and Shu Uemura treatment and styling products.

Runway Star & Daytime Emmy Star Collaborate For Charity

Project Runway’s Jack Mackenroth and Bold and the Beautiful star, Emmy-winner Heather Tom, are collaborating on a project for the 35th Annual Daytime Emmys on June 20, 2008. Tom wants to celebrate her 12th nomination and met with Mackenroth to have him design a one of a kind gown for the Emmys. The pair also decided to help their friends with HIV, and auction the dress off to benefit three HIV/AIDS charities – amfAR, National Association of People with AIDS, and San Antonio AIDS Foundation. The auction istimed to bring attention to National HIV Testing Day on June 27th – one week after the Daytime Emmys.

“This disease is not over yet, “ Tom says. “Too many people avoid getting tested and taking care of themselves due to fear.”

Mackenroth adds, “Testing is a big step, but a simple one that could save your life.”

Tom has been involved with HIV/AIDS charities since the beginning of her career. Currently she is a Surrogate on the road for Senator Clinton’s presidential bid. Mackenroth has been HIV positive for 17 years and appeared on Project Runway’s Season Four.

“We both wanted to make this more than just an evening gown – we wanted to make a statement”, explains Tom. “The proceeds go to three charities – amfAR, for doing all of the life saving research, the National Association of People with AIDS, for making testing a priority in people’s lives, and the San Antonio AIDS Foundation, for their one of a kind client services for people living with HIV/AIDS in this country.”

People will be able to go on Clothes of our Back immediately after the Emmys to bid on Mackenroth’s design. Individuals are encouraged to go to HeatherTom.net, JackMackenroth.com for live links to the auction and to ClothesoffourBack.org to bid on the gown.

amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, is one of the world’s leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to the support of AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and the advocacy of sound AIDS-related public policy. Since 1985, amfAR has invested $260 million in its programs and has awarded grants to more than 2,000 research teams worldwide.

The San Antonio AIDS Foundation (SAAF) has served the San Antonio and South Texas community with direct services to people infected with HIV and with prevention services to at-risk populations since 1986 SAAF has a unique 36 bed residential skilled nursing/hospice facility, as well case management, rental assistance, dental care, a 3 meals daily congregate dining program, and prevention services. All services are free to clients. SAAF also encourages testing and HIV prevention in all its work.



Founded in 1983, National Association of People with AIDS, is the oldest national AIDS organization in the United States. NAPWA provides essential HIV and health treatment information, improves access to HIV care and treatment, and advocates for the needs of both those with HIV and those at-risk for HIV. Our signature programs include National HIV Testing Day, which engages over 10,000 organizations, and AIDSWatch, the nation’s largest grassroots driven HIV advocacy group.

The Clothes Off Our Back Foundation is a 501c3 organization that hosts charity auctions showcasing today's hottest celebrity attire. Items are put up for bid to the public with proceeds going to benefit children's charities. Clothes Off Our Back was founded by actors and philanthropists Jane Kaczmarek ("Malcolm In The Middle") and Bradley Whitford (“The West Wing,” “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip”) whose efforts, along with their celebrity and designer friends have helped improve the lives of children across the globe.

TV Land’s Summer Lineup

First-ever 35+ Model Show “She’s Got The Look,” “Family Foreman,” Return of “Myths and Legends,” “Mad About You,” “Murphy Brown” and “Hogan’s Heroes” to Join the Line-up
TV Land adds new original programs, classic television favorites, iconic movies and specially themed programming all summer long. TV Land premieres two new originals, its annual awards special and the return of “She’s Got the Look,” with host Kim Alexis, showcases women 35 plus as they vie for a modeling contract with Wilhelmina Models Inc. and a photo spread in SELF Magazine premieres on June 4th. The sixth annual "TV Land Awards" premieres June 15th. “Family Foreman” gives viewers an inside look on how former heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman and his extensive family live their everyday lives, joins TV Land on July 16th. “Myths and Legends” returns for a second season on August 27th and answers questions about pop culture icons from the world of television, arts and music.

TV Land expands it roster of classic TV offerings -- both on-air and online -- with the addition of proven television favorites “Mad About You,” “Murphy Brown” and “Hogan’s Heroes.”

TV Land’s Summer Programming Line-up includes:

Original Programming

“She’s Got The Look” (new series) Wednesday, June 4 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT
TV Land and Wilhelmina Models Inc. team up to search the country to find undiscovered models age 35 and older. The would-be models live together in a loft in New York City and face various challenges real models would encounter such as photo shoots and tests on their fashion sense and acumen. Eliminations occur weekly until the ultimate winner is crowned. Kim Alexis is the host. Celebrity stylist Robert Verdi, Wilhelmina president Sean Patterson and supermodel Beverly Johnson are judges of this six-episode series.

“The 6th Annual TV Land Awards” (annual special)m Sunday, June 15 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT

“Family Foreman” (new series)m Wednesday, July 16 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT
In this six-episode series, TV Land gives viewers an intimate look at the life of George Foreman, the former heavyweight boxing champ who reinvented himself as a successful businessman and pitchman. Viewers get a rare glimpse into his home life, as well as his life on the road managing his multi-million dollar empires.

“Myths and Legends” (returning series)m Wednesday, August 27 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT
“Myths and Legends” returns with seven new episodes. This season takes a look at “Pigskins, Bats and That Darn Cat,” “Rock Gods and Movie Stars,” “Curses, Corpses and Alice Cooper.” “Blood Evidence,” “Shatner, Sinatra and Oscar,” “Manson, Monkees and Mister Ed” and “Bigfoot Phone Home.”

“Mad About You” Sunday, June 22 at 9 p.m. – 6 a.m. ET/PT
The Buchmans, neurotic Manhattan newlyweds (Paul Reiser and Helen Hunt), try to raise a family and deal with common everyday life situations.

“Murphy Brown” Mondays in August 8:00 p.m. – 10 p.m. ET/PT
This Emmy award-winning comedy centers on the life of a single, unmarried, recovering alcoholic mother, Murphy Brown played by Candice Bergen. Brown was the veteran star reporter of a Washington-based TV network, known as F.Y.I. She is not the most lovable person in the world and is opinionated, sarcastic and overbearing – this combination creates funny situations with her co-workers.


“Hogan’s Heroes” Sunday July 6 at 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. ET/PT
Set against a World War II backdrop, “Hogan’s Heroes” tells the story of the adventurous undertakings of five prisoners of war who are secretly out to damage the German war effort. They go to unprecedented lengths to complete their mission. Although it is set up in a prisoner-of-war background, it always takes on a comedic twist. The storylines were based on the real life stories of the prisoners of war.

Movie Land Friday nights at 10 p.m. ET/PT

TV Land continues to air its movie block Friday nights at 10 p.m. showcasing movies. Among the films to be shown are “Apollo 13,” “Blazing Saddles,” “City Slickers,” “My Cousin Vinny” and “Beverly Hills Cop.”

“Night of a Thousand Georges” July 13 - 14 8 p.m. -2 a.m. ET/PT
In preparation for TV Land’s newest original series “Family Foreman” TV Land airs “Jeffersons” episodes will air next to an extended sneak peek of TV Land’s new original series “Family Foreman.”

Rachael Leigh Cook is Golden

American actress Rachael Leigh Cook, right, arrives with an unidentified guest for the premiere of the film 'Kung Fu Panda' during the 61st International film festival in Cannes, southern France, on Thursday, May 15, 2008. Cook wore David Meister’s gold taffeta jacquard strapless cocktail dress. (AP Photo/Francois Mori)

Cannes Stars in Chopard

Australian actress Cate Blanchett arrives at the 'Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull' premiere during the 61st International film festival in Cannes, southern France, on Sunday, May 18, 2008. Blanchett wore a large necklace from Chopard’s Red Carpet Collection featuring: cushion and round shaped tanzanite (237 carats), amethyst (44 carats), round shaped rose-cut diamonds (44 carats) and 952 sapphires. She paired this special piece with elegant diamond stud earrings (10 carats). (AP Photo/Lionel Cironneau)

Mexican actress Salma Hayek arrives for the premiere of the film 'Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull' during the 61st International film festival in Cannes, southern France, on Sunday, May 18, 2008. Hayek wore Chopard’s spectacular chandelier earrings comprised of oval and tear-drop shaped emeralds (15 carats) and briolette and pear-shaped diamonds (27 carats) as well as an oval-shaped diamond (D-IF 6 carat) ring from the Red Carpet Collection. (AP Photo/Francois Mori)

Spanish actress Paz Vega arrives before the world premiere screening of "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" by U.S. director Steven Spielberg at the 61st Cannes Film Festival May 18, 2008. Vega donned Chopard’s pendant necklace from the Red Carpet Collection containing two pear-shaped Columbian emeralds (14 carats) and brilliant-cut diamonds along with a stunning marquise-cut diamond bracelet. REUTERS/Jean-Paul Pelissier (FRANCE)

American actor Adrien Brody and Spanish actress Elsa Pataky arrive for the premiere of the film 'Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull' during the 61st International film festival in Cannes, southern France, Sunday, May 18, 2008. Oscar-winning actor Brody walked the red carpet wearing Chopard’s Mille Miglia watch and an asscher-cut diamond bracelet (21 carats). Spanish film actress Pataky sparkled in Chopard’s fancy colored-diamond hoop earrings set in yellow gold and a stack of Red Carpet Collection bangles set with multi-colored oval-shaped spinels within multi-colored sapphire surrounds and diamonds. (AP Photo/Evan Agostini)

British actress Rebecca Hall, left, and Spanish actress Penelope Cruz arrive for the premiere of the film 'Vicky Cristina Barcelona' during the 61st International film festival in Cannes, southern France, Saturday, May 17, 2008. Cruz, Oscar-nominated star chose in Chopard’s fancy-shaped diamond earrings with pear-shaped drops (12 carats), fancy-shaped diamond bracelet (43 carats) and an oval-shaped diamond cocktail ring (D-color internal flawless – 6 carats). British Film actress Hall wore Chopard’s pear and oval-shaped diamond earrings (16 carats) and marquise and round-cut diamond cuff (174 carats). (AP Photo/Matt Sayles)

Woody Allen and his wife Soon-Yi arrive for the screening of his film 'Vicky Cristina Barcelona' at the 61st Cannes Film Festival May 17, 2008. Soon-Yi wore Chopard’s fancy-shaped diamond fringe necklace (98 carats), heart-shaped diamond drop earrings (16 carats), marquise and round-cut diamond cuff (83 carats) and a cushion-cut diamond ring (3 carats). (Jean-Paul Pelissier/Reuters)

"Full-Figured" Competitor Wins "ANTM"

Whitney, a student from Atlantic Beach, Florida, beat the competition to become the first full-figured winner of The CW’s hit reality series “America’s Next Top Model.” Fatima, a student from Boston, was the second runner up; Anya, a retail sales associate from Honolulu, was the first runner up.

The tenth cycle of the hit reality series “America’s Next Top Model” on The CW follows fourteen young women as they attempt to prove they have what it takes to make it in the high-stress world of modeling. “America’s Next Top Model” airs Wednesdays, (8-9 p.m., ET/PT) on The CW. For more information, log on to www.cwtv.com.

The winner of The CW's “America’s Next Top Model” will be managed by Elite Model Management. She also receives a $100,000 contract with cosmetics giant CoverGirl. Finally, the winner will appear on the cover and six-page fashion spread in Seventeen magazine.

“America’s Next Top Model” is produced by 10 by 10 Entertainment, in association with Bankable Productions. Tyra Banks is the creator and executive producer along with Ken Mok (“Making the Band”) and Daniel Soiseth (“Hell’s Kitchen”).

(BeansTalk note: We know the intention of calling her the "first full-figure model" is to say that she is plus-sized which, we're sorry, but is crazy. Seriously. This girl is gorgeous, not big in any stretch of the imagination. We checked out her pics and while she's certainly photogenic, most of her pics were pretty expressionless. But then, we've never been able to figure out how they ultimately choose their winners; we just think of our fave, Elyse Sewell and how she's the most successful of the ANTM and she came in a ridiculous third.)

Moore Layers Her Lanvin

At the Palais de Festival, for the premiere of her movie Blindness, Julianne Moore wore a chic sleeveless blue silk satin dress with ruffle neckline and a black silk tuxedo blazer with shawl collar and crystal button. (Vincent Kessler/Reuters)

Portman Doubles the Lanvin

Natalie Portman wore Lanvin to the premiere of Blindness at the 61st international- Cannes Film Festival, violet washed silk strapless dress with ruffle detailing and black elastic belt. She also wore Lanvin to the jury photocall, a black silk box-cut blazer with peak lapels. (Blindness: AP Photo/Jeff Christensen; jury photocall: REUTERS/Vincent Kessler (FRANCE))

Double click on the above to enlarge

Big Ring Bachelor

The Bachelor Matt Grant proposed to Shayne Lamas with a Platinum and 2.85-carat diamond engagement ring from Tacori on the season finale of “The Bachelor: London Calling” last night. The ring is valued at more than $50,000.

Stonehenge Decoded

Actor Donald Sutherland lends his distinctive voice, as he narrates National Geographic Channel’s Stonehenge Decoded.

Stonehenge is one of the most iconic structures in the world. Now, NGC presents an exclusive look at groundbreaking evidence that places this ancient monument at the center of one the largest prehistoric religious complexes in the world. Stonehenge Decoded details the discovery and excavation of a 4,500-year-old settlement less than two miles from Stonehenge. Believed to contain hundreds of houses, it is the largest Stone Age settlement ever found in northern Europe. At its center are remnants of a mysterious timber monument arranged in six concentric rings. Now, the excavations and radiocarbon dating reveal that this monument was in fact a near replica of Stonehenge, built of wood — and that both circles stood at the same time. Narrated by Emmy Award-winning actor Donald Sutherland, the two-hour documentary presents surprising new evidence that supports a new theory of Stonehenge and the people who built it.

Stonehenge Decoded airs Sunday, June 1, 2008 at 9 p.m. ET/PT (World Premiere) on National Geographic Channel.

LeRoux Makes Paltrow See Red

Gwyneth Paltrow wore a white chic jersey-draped Herve LeRoux dress for her appearance in a Rome commercial. Famous for his body-enhancing bandage dresses (which are hotter than ever, 12 years after he first created it) the Parisian Couturier, created his new company under the name of Herve Leroux in 2000. Did you know that Herve Leroux (as in the red[head], and coined by Karl Lagerfield) is actually Herve Leger? When he split with BCBG Max Azria in 1999, they got to keep his name, since they’d bought his line – and name. But Herve is the man!

Emmy Rossum recently wore a LeRoux to the Speed Racer premiere in Los Angeles. Then pregnant Cate Blanchett wore a custom LeRoux dress at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Kate Walsh wore a gorgeous dark grey/smoke dress with train on the red carpet at the American Red Cross’ Red Tie Affair on 16 March 2008.

Murder, Insanity, Mystery
And the Birth of the Oxford
Dictionary

Every once in a while, BeansTalk profiles a notable book we’re reading, be it from our (other life) book club or one we’ve just come across….so here’s an installment, again, in a very occasional series.

We very, very rarely buy current books from bookstores, unless it’s something we collect and even then, we gird ourselves and wait to see if we can find it online for less coin. Most of our books, acquired for our own reading pleasure and/or to send overseas to our equally avid reader cousin, are from thrift stores. We very much lamented the closure of one of the best thrift-store bookshops, The Salvation Army on Washington Blvd, located just east of Sepulveda Blvd. What a fantastic collection they had – and entire back room was dedicated to books, organized thoughtfully by the store’s affable Tony. But Tony and the shop and their great used books are no more.

In the meantime, we have to keep ourselves busy with the less-engaging thrift stores. We did, however, get a book that we’re reading (we just finished Elizabeth Berg’s Durable Goods, also a thrift-store purchase, from the Jewish Women’s shop on Venice at Grandview Blvd. in West Los Angeles) at one of the shops. It could be the Boys and Girls Club on Washington Blvd. west, just east of Lincoln, which is technically, we think, Culver City.

This long-winded entry is to introduce you to Professor and the Madman: A Tale of Murder, Insanity, and the Making of the Oxford English Dictionary by Simon Winchester which we’re more than half way through. It’s completely fascinating.

The big reveal is that this academic, Sir James A.H. Murray spent years compiling the research for The Oxford Dictionary and was assisted, via letters, by a Dr. William C. Minor. Minor had submitted some 10,000 entries. When Murray finally gets to meet Minor, he finds out that the good doctor is a long-time resident of the Broadmoor Lunatic Asylum for the Criminally Insane.

The research is impeccable, and Winchester has written a book, that half-way through, at least, is as compelling as any murder mystery.

We can highly recommend it. Here’s where you can buy it: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Professor-and-the-Madman/Simon-Winchester/e/9780060839789/?itm=1

Cinematic Devices

Label them trite, wrote or derivative. In a good movie, a classic cinematic device is forgivable or even welcome – after all, in the genre of romance films, ultimately, most viewers want to see their leads end up together. Here’s Part 1 in an occasional series about some of our “favorite” cinematic devices.

Air Travel

They end up at the airport or on an airplane; one surprising another with declarations of love:

French Kiss (Luc and Kate, when they first meet; the film ends on a plane, too)
The Wedding Singer
The Very Thought of You (aka Martha Meet Daniel, Frank and Laurence)
Boys and Girls
Random Hearts
30 Rock (in a recent episode, Liz rushes to see Floyd)
How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days (on the way to the airport)
Along Came Polly (on the way to the airport)

Best Friends

They realize they’re in love with their buddy, best and/or childhood friend, a near staple of the teen comedy, but used to great effect in adult comedies, too.

When Harry Met Sally
13 Going On 30 (Matty and Jenna -- seen in image above)
Where the Heart Is
Get Over It
Drive Me Crazy
Whatever it Takes
Some Kind of Wonderful
Nearing Grace
Trojan War
Just Friends
The Truth About Cats and Dogs
Pretty in Pink (the original ending has her ending up with Ducky!)
Clueless
Emma
Picture Perfect
Catch and Release
Norbit
Two Weeks Notice
The Sure Thing
Blue Lagoon
Secret Admirer
Sweet Home Alabama
Empire Records (Liv Tyler and Johnny Whitworth)
Loser

It Just Occurred to Us....

No, not that they resemble each other physically (although they do a bit, no?), unless you count voice -- they have the same one. We were watching "Cherry Crush" (so far forgettable) and kept thinking, why is Jonathan Tucker's voice so familiar? And then I realized. He and Toby Maguire have the same voice.

Liv Lavished in Platinum

Actress Liv Tyler arrives for the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala, "Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy" in New York May 5, 2008. Tyler, Tilda Swinton, Naomi Watts, Ellen Barkin and Venus Williams chose vintage Platinum jewelry by Fred Leighton.

Tyler wore a Platinum and diamond cuff bracelet from the 1940’s and a Platinum bracelet from the 1930’s.

Swinton selected a Platinum and diamond “starburst” bracelet from the 1940’s, and a Platinum with coral “star” brooch that was formerly in the collection of Diana Vreeland. New mother Watts wore a glamorous in a Platinum and diamond cocktail ring. Barkin was dripping in Platinum, including clip brooches from the 1930’s, earrings from the 1920’s and a buckle bracelet from the 1920’s. Williams selected three Platinum bracelets from the 1930’s.
Reuters/Lucas Jackson (UNITED STATES)

For All You Surly Girls

BeansTalk’s favorite hat is a black with pink embroidery, declaring, Surly Girl. We have a soft spot for this very cool company (shopsurlygirl.com) that we’ve been following since they first started.

We saw this on their site and love them.

Keep your "to do" list at your fingertips with Surly Girl leather embossed heart notebooks, and throw it in your matching Surly Girl bag.

These notebooks come with both a refillable spiral lined notepad and a plastic photo insert. It doubles as a photo album that holds 24 4x6 photos of girlfriends and surly boys.

Tons of color and leather options available, ranging from our custom tanned Italian crocodile and lizard to our more conservative solid black calf. All books feature a Surly heart on the front which is stamped with out Surly Girl logo, and a colorful matching solid leather lining.

This lizard print is available in Green, Pink, Gold and Purple. Proudly made in Los Angeles by Surly Girl.

Measures 5L x 6.5H x .75W $65.00

Seeing Spots
Even if you’ve never donned an itsy-witzy teeny-weeny yellow polka dot bikini, you’re likely to have, at some point, worn the popular print.

While Polka Dots have always curried favor in fashion, these days, we’re seeing spots everywhere, in designs from head to toe. Spots aren't limited to women's clothing and shoes, of course, they can be found in men's clothing, and children's, too.

While there's a splash of color in dots, this spring we're seeing a lot of straight-forward black- on-white and white-on-black.

Take a look at some the fashions we found and think about adding this classic print to your current wardrobe.

Charvet Polka-Dot Tie, Black

• Black/gray polka-dot print.
• Made in France.

About Charvet:
In 1838 Paris, Charles Charvet founded this now-legendary house, establishing a standard of excellence and service unparalleled in its day. This tradition continues from Charvet's headquarters on Paris' famed Place Vendôme.

Neimanmarcus.com
Price: $180.00

See? Not only women can don spots -- guys and kids (see entry below), can too!

Alice & Olivia Polka-Dot Party Dress

• Black bodice; white skirt with black polka dots.
• Scoop neckline.
• Sleeveless.
• Seam pockets.
• Pure silk.
• Made in the USA.

Neimanmarcus.com
Price: $187.00

Donna Morgan Sleeveless Print Silk Dress

Free-form dots adorn a silk twill dress with a solid bodice and detailed with cutaway shoulders, a deep V-neck dipping to a bow front and a flattering ruched bust.

* Side zip with hook-and-eye closure.
* On-seam pockets.
* Approx. length from shoulder to hem: 39".
* Lined.
* Silk; dry clean.
* By Donna Morgan; imported.
* Dresses.

Nordstrom.com
Price: $158.00

Polkadot Tube Dress

Short length polka dot print tube dress with braided drawstring below the bust. Ruffled skirt trim. Lined at the bust. Unfinished skirt hem
- 30'' approx length from bust to hem
- 92% polyester, 8% spandex, hand wash, hang or line dry
- Imported
ProductCode: 2048196087

Forever21.com
Price: $22.80

DKNY Women's Swim Dot Cover-up

DKNY polka dot swim cover-up has a jewel neck, elbow length balloon sleeves and tie string belt.

* Catalog Item Number: 44094
* Polyester
* Hand wash
* Imported

Bloomingdales.com
Price: $108

Ralph Lauren Collection "Alessia" Peeptoe Pump

Leather lined, fabric upper. Leather sole. Patent leather removable flower, patent leather adjustable ankle strap. 3.75" covered heel.

* Catalog Item Number: 24482
* Black Polka Dot/ Black Patent (90)
* Full and half sizes 6-10M
* Imported from Italy

Bloomingdales.com
Price: $425

Valentino Polka Dot Patent Pumps

• Black/white polka dot-print patent leather.
• Gold-tone hardware.
• Peep toe.
• Buckled heel strap.
• Platform sole.
• Covered heel.
• Made in Italy.

Neimanmarcus.com
Price: $675.00

Jessica Simpson 'Hask' Pump

Playful dot cutouts pattern the upper of a sassy two-tone pump with a distinctively tilted heel. Flirty peep toe is accented with a tiny bow.

* Approx. heel height: 3 3/4".
* Leather upper/synthetic lining and sole.
* By Jessica Simpson; imported.
* BP. Shoes.

Nordstrom.com
Price: $78.95

Moschino Cheap & Chic Polka Dot Slide with Bow

* Feminine bow detail.
* Approx. heel height: 3".
* Coated canvas and leather upper/leather lining.
* Made in Italy.
* Salon Shoes.

Nordstrom.com
Price: $325