All About Eyes
Jouer Cosmetics

As a woman whose 29th birthday is a fleeting memory, BeansTalk considers our self a veteran of the makeup counter. We are deft and efficient in our makeup routine, have long been aware of our skin types (swipe your nose at noon to determine oil levels), and can quickly scan an array of lipstick shades to isolate the select colors we know are perfect for us.

Still, there is one makeup category where we feel less confident – the world of eye shadow. Every woman is striving for that perfectly blended, almost airbrushed lid. The brushstrokes are invisible, and the colors disappear into the brow – the shadow but an illusion itself.

The nightmare, of course is the garish broad-stroked look of neon-colored Mimi, of the Drew Carey Show. Remember her? God forbid we should ever apply our make up in that clown-like manner.

Much to our relief, BeansTalk recently discovered a fun and user friendly line of make up called Jouer. They just debuted a new All About Eyes Collection for Fall 2006. BeansTalk was originally attracted to the line because they have really unique packaging that encourages you to play with your palettes and customize your look as often as you want. The name of the line “jouer” actually means “to play” in French. The philosophy at Jouer is that make up should be fun and simple, without sacrificing sophistication and style.

Here is what you do:

Start with the Powder Eye Shadow Duos. These are rich, velvety, incandescent shadows created in wet to dry formulas that glide easily across the lids as a powder or with a wet liner brush to create a defined lash line. Each shade is sheer and layerable to create looks ranging from ethereal to dramatic. What is fun about these pretty little compacts is that they are designed to slide and click together, or be snapped together back to back. You can carry one or several and configure them to fit your purse. BeansTalk really enjoys pairing the subtle shades of suede and feather with our olive-y complexion for daytime.

Other duos include: Les Verts, matte deep olive and shiimering khaki green; Les Cremes, matte soft crème and shimmering pearl buff; Les Chocolats, shimmering bronzed brown and matte deep chocolate; and Les Bordeaux, shimmering soft rose pink and matte deep plum wine.

Add to your custom compact Jouer’s Conditioning Mascara in noir (no matter what color your hair, always use noir, which is Francais for black). We found this conditioning and long lasting mascara thickens and nourishes lashes, and coats evenly. We especially liked the mascara’s dense brush with fine bristles, as is best for application. Of course this cute little mascara just latches right on to your powders, making it easy to travel with.

Nothing frames a face better than strong, sexy, and clean cut brows. The long lasting ultimate Brow Fix clear grooming gel tames unruly brows, giving BeansTalk a clean, polished appearance.

We attach this to our set when we miss our brow waxing appointments with ever popular Cyndi Nistal of the Salon Molise in Studio City.

Jouer’s CEO and Founder Christina Zilber wanted to create a customizable and non-intimidating line of make up for women on the go. This philosophy resonates with the eye-shadow-cautious BeansTalk. Our success with the All About Eyes Collection piques our interest in their other make-up categories which include lip glosses, illuminating highlighters, complexion perfecters, and ultimate bronzers.

Jouer cosmestics are available at www.jouercosmetics.com, beauty.com and select boutiques.

Jouer Prices
Shadows: retail for $20
Mascara: retails for $12
Brow Fix: retails for $10

--Andrea Goodwin, associate editor, BeansTalk (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)

Love Your BedHead!

Want to get some Holiday shopping done early? Frankly, BeansTalk is actually all done with holiday shopping. But BedHead Pajamas is having their first sample sale and after eight years of business they are opening their doors to the public and providing one of a kind designs at wholesale and below prices. The above is an example of the pjs they sell, but don’t go looking for this specific style and then come back to BeansTalk and be all “they didn’t have those pajamas you had up on your site.” We won’t be able to help you there. But we wanted to show you how cute they are.

Designer pajamas that were once $158 will now be $80 and ones that were $142 are now $70. And let’s not forget their $20, $30, $40 and $50 bins chalk full of PJ’s for men and women. Aside from the fact that we’re having our book club as well as an ornament exchange party that day, these are still out of our price range, but we love love love the way they look. The store is actually very near the BeansTalk headquarters, too. Go over there and get a super cool pair of Pjs, will ya?

Where: BedHead Pajamas Studio
3305 Motor Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90034


When: Saturday, November 18

Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Cash and Credit Cards accepted Not in L.A. that weekend? www.bedheadpjs.com

Get Your Pumpkin On!
Ona Spa Wins BeansTalk's
Pumpkin Peel Skincare Challenge

A quick way to get into the season is to surround yourself with the scents of the holidays. We just ordered our Thanksgiving Dinner, and for dessert, of course, we chose Pumpkin Pie over Apple. We love pumpkin. We’re actually allergic to squash, so we have to be careful to limit how much we eat. But we definitely can’t put it on our skin. Still, there are some amazing products, and our testers/friends all give these the thumbs up.

Best of the Bunch: Ona Spa Rejuvenating Pumpkin Peel: A highly effective exfoliant. Can be used as a pre-event/at-home facial to achieve glowing skin and a smooth base for glamorous make-up. Pumpkin pulp contains a highly effective proteolytic enzyme, high concentrations of beta carotene and over 100 other beneficial skin nutrients. Glycolic acid promotes a more even skin tone and reduced blotchiness. Green tea extract and beta carotene from pumpkin extract, carrot tissue extract and vitamin E all provide anti-oxidant protection. www.onaspa.com

The Winner: Ona Face

More Pumpkin Skin Care: What Else is Out There

NCN Skincare Pro Pumpkin Peel is a chemical peel with 30% Glycolic, Lactic, Salicylic and Fruit Acids with pure pumpkin! Alpha-hydroxy acids have been proven to promote smoother, younger looking skin by increasing the rate of cell renewal. Pumpkin is a rich source of antioxidants & enzymes that act like alpha-hydroxy acids. Pumpkin also contains more than 100 beneficial nutrients, which are used to help reverse the signs of aging. Our Pro Pumpkin Peel nourishes effectively and exfoliates safetly at the same time. It's the perfect blend for the ultimate peel experience. You won't believe how aromatherapeutic it is too! Use weekly for optimum results. $85 for 4 oz. www.ncnskincare.com

Great Skin Pore Refining Pumpkin Mask: Uncover your skin's inner glow with this creamy cocktail of minerals, enzymes and vitamins. This deep cleansing, warming mask leaves pores looking smaller and more refined. Delicately scented with the rich, spicy scent of pumpkin. How to Use: Gentle enough to be used daily. Apply a generous amount of mask to clean, dry skin. Massage mask into skin until warming sensation decreases. Wet hands and repeat massaging action until heat dissipates. Rinse thoroughly with tepid water. Avoid the eye area. www.greatskin.com $39 for 5 oz.


MyChelle Incredible Pumpkin Peel An exfoliating treatment with vitamin A For all skin types, especially acne and/or sun damaged skin. Super-concentrated pumpkin extract, pumpkin wine, honey enzymes and pineapple extract gently, yet thoroughly, remove dead skin cells, leaving skin smooth and revitalized. Concentrated vitamin A from pumpkin assists in healing acne, sun damaged skin. 1.2 oz. $24.


June Jacobs Perfect Pumpkin Peeling Enzyme Masque (photo above) Here’s what they say This deliciously spicy skin purifying pumpkin enzyme face and body masque is the natural, gentle alternative to AHA peels. Gently digests and exfoliates dead skin cells and impurities as it delivers pumpkin's botanical repair benefits into the skin. Leaves the skin cleansed, detoxified and silky smooth. Age-fighting Vitamin A and anti-oxidants naturally occurring in pumpkin protect the skin. Apply to skin and allow it to remain for up to 10 minutes on the face and up to 30 minutes on the body. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. For All Skin Types $76 for 5 oz. www.skinstore.com

Skinsavers Pumpkin Enzyme Peel Utilizes naturally occurring enzymes in pumpkin fruit along with glycolic and salicylic acid. Ingredients Pumpkin (cucurbita pepo), Aqua (water), glycolic acid, propylene glycol, salicylic acid, glycerin, German Chamomile Oil (matricaria chamomilla), cinnamon powder, ginger powder, nutmeg powder, allspice powder, methylparaben, propylparaben, EDTA. $33 for 5 oz.

Sircuit Cosmeceuticals - "youth accelerator" Pumpkin Pore Refiner Mask Pore refiner and enzyme peel dissolves unwanted debris and dead skin cells. 100% Natural Fruit Acid Formula (Glycolic Polymer) created from Nutrient-Rich Pumpkin. Pumpkin is extremely rich in Vitamin A, as well as a host of other vitamins and minerals. Intensive therapy resulting in younger, healthier looking skin - which adds up to a more vibrant complexion! Smells great, but do me a favor - don’t eat it! Free of artificial colors, fragrance or preservatives and always cruelty free. 1 .3 oz. glass jar $75 www.4derm.com

Au Naturel: Make Your
Own Pumpkin Skincare

Put that Halloween Pumpkin to good use!

Making your own. This is more labor intensive, but if you’re determined…care2.com offers up this Facemask ingredient for all skin types, especially environmentally damaged or sensitive skin. High in Vitamin A (skin healing), C (anti-oxidant) and Zinc, the pumpkin soothes, moisturizes and acts as a carrier, assisting the other mask ingredients to absorb deeper into the skin and intensifying the results. Give your skin this healing mask for a healthy glow!

Pumpkin Pie Face Mask

Ingredients
2 teaspoons cooked or canned pumpkin, pureed (see above for benefits)
one-half teaspoon honey (humectant, regenerative) one-quarter teaspoon milk (or soymilk)(alpha hydroxyl acid, enzymes digest skin cells)

Optional Ingredients
For Dry Skin one-quarter teaspoon heavy whipping cream (moisturizing; alpha hydroxy acid)
-or-
one-half teaspoon brown sugar (exfoliates, moisturizes, alpha hydroxyl acid)

For Oily Skin
one-quarter teaspoon apple cider (tonic action promotes skin circulation; alpha hydroxyl acid; regulates pH).
-or-
one-quarter teaspoon cranberry juice (high in antioxidants critically important to the utilization of essential fatty acids to maintain balanced, nourished skin.

Directions
Combine the ingredients for your facemask. Mix gently and apply to your face avoiding the eye area. Rest and relax for 10-15 minutes while your pumpkin pie facemask gently exfoliates, nourishes and conditions your face. Rinse with warm water and apply the appropriate moisturizer for your skin type.

Pumpkin Facial Mask

Ingredients

2 teaspoons cooked or canned pumpkin
1/2 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon milk (or whipping cream, if your skin is very dry)

1. Combine ingredients and apply to a clean face with gentle circular motions, avoiding the area around your eyes.

2. Allow mask to remain on skin for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water, pat dry, and apply your usual moisturizer.

Pumpkin, Sugar, and Spice Scrub

Ingredients

1/2 cup cooked or canned pumpkin, pureed
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1. Combine ingredients in a bowl.

2. Stand in a tub or shower stall and use a damp washcloth to scoop some of the mixture up. Apply to body, starting with your feet and working your way up, but avoiding your face. Scrub gently using circular motions.

3. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

Def Leppard, Journey Raise Funds for Autism

Online Auction for One-Of-A-Kind Autographed Arlen Ness-Designed Motorcycle Begins November 1 at www.vh1auctions.com

In an effort to help raise awareness and funds for autism research, VH1 Classic is teaming up with Def Leppard and Journey to auction off a one-of-a-kind autographed motorbike. The bike, designed by Cory Ness of Arlen Ness Motorcycles is signed by each member of the bands. From November 1 through November 22 online users can visit www.vh1auctions.com to bid on this rock-n-roll machine and help in the fight against autism. A portion of the proceeds raised will be donated to Cure Autism Now (CAN).

Throughout the auction, VH1 Classic will air promos that direct VH1 Classic viewers to www.vh1auctions.com. In addition, as the sponsor of the current 2006 Def Leppard/Journey tour, VH1 Classic will include auction signage at each of the concert venues during upcoming tour stops.

“It was an honor and privilege to build a motorcycle for these rock icons. Neal Schon and Joe Elliot not only rock, they know how to design a motorcycle,” said designer Cory Ness. “This bike not only rocks, it rolls! Someone is going to own a piece of history.”

“The custom Journey/Def Leppard bike that Arlen Ness Motorcycles created is one bad-ass, wicked-mean bike with all the frills and best parts that money can buy. A lucky fan will own this bad boy in just a few weeks. Best of all, the money is going to Cure Autism Now,” said Neal Schon of Journey.

“I concur with Neal that this is not just a bike but an absolute work of art...some lucky person is going to own this bike and I will be forever jealous of the fact that it won’t be me!!!! But I will take some comfort in the knowledge that the money we raise will be going to such a worthy cause,” said Joe Elliot of Def Leppard.

“VH1 Classic is happy to harness the power of these two iconic bands and Arlen Ness Motorcycles to help drive awareness and research of this rapidly growing disorder,” said Eric Sherman, Senior Vice President and General Manager, VH1 Classic and VH1 Digital Networks.

“We are humbled by the generosity of these two legendary bands and VH1 Classic's commitment to raising awareness and funding for autism,” says Peter Bell, president and CEO of Cure Autism Now. “Anyone that has ever played air guitar to 'Rock of Ages' or 'Don't Stop Believin' and rides a motorcycle needs to seriously consider bidding--it's a one-of-a-kind.”

Autism is a neuro-development disorder that now affects as many as one in every 166 children in the United States. Autism is commonly diagnosed by the age three, and in some cases, as early as one year. Characterized by varying degrees of impairment in communication skills, social interactions, and restricted, repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior, children with autism can exhibit symptoms that run from mild severe with widely differing symptom profiles.

Cure Autism Now is an organization of parents, clinicians and scientists dedicated to accelerating research to prevent, treat and cure autism -- for individuals and families today, and for future generations. www.cureautismnow.org or (888) 8-AUTISM.

Launched in May 2000, VH1 Classic is a 24-hour network that present videos, concerts and music specials all day long, featuring the best of rock, soul and pop artists from the 60s, 70s and 80s, including The Beatles, The Stones, Tina Turner, Led Zeppelin, Marvin Gaye, The Who, Stevie Wonder, The Police and many more.

Heidi Klum on Halloween

Supermodel and Project Runway exec producer and host Heidi Klum brought her 7th Annual Halloween party from New York to Los Angeles. This year’s costume soiree was held at SBE’s popular nightclub Privilege, in Los Angeles. Angeleno guests were treated to devilish tunes by DJ Stonerokk, Dark Chocolate M&M’s and ghastly drinks.

Guests included Klum’s husband Seal, Minnie Driver, Paris & Nicky Hilton, Kevin Connolly, Jeremy Piven, Kyle MacLachlan, Brandon Davis, Scott Storch, Alyssa Milano, Lil Jon, Elisha Cuthbert, Tisha Campbell, Tichina Arnold, Lena Gercke of Germany’s Next Top Model, Jeffrey Sebelia, Santino Rice, Kara Saun and Nick Verreos of Project Runway, Pete Wentz of Fall Out Boy, Lauren Conrad and Jason Wahler of Laguna Beach, Svetlana Metkina, Lauren Woodland and Jennifer Gareis.

A video from the night narrated by Nick of Project Runway:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlUWN0z99OM

BeansTalk Special Weekend Edition!

Super Fine Feet

No, we have not developed a foot fetish, although when we learned (only a couple of years ago – apparently we are a tad sheltered) that there are people out there with serious foot issues.

Even this, discussing the virtues and faults of foot files or pedicure files or callus rasps or whatever terminology they’re using on your side of the world, may be a little ooky. For starters, we’re talking about exfoliation. We’re talking the abrading away of dead skin. Dead skin that turns into a very fine white dust as you mindlessly file away.

Had enough? Don’t tune out yet! We are very interested in the elements involved in pedicures because we are not crazy about professional manicures or pedicures. It’s a nice thing to do with your gal pals in that it’s a little social get together. We still think it’s hurts and the best thing about it is the hand massage.

At any rate, we reside in Southern California and given the weather and our nature, we wear open-toed and open-backed shoes and sandals all year ‘round. Because we’re getting old and because it can get very warm here, sometimes we (yes, even us) suffer from dry heels. We haven’t been relegated into the cracked heels yet. So far, they’re mildly callused.

But we like our feet to look good – we used to have a co-worker (two day jobs ago) who covered fashion and beauty and she always looked like she never washed her feet. We meanly referred to her amongst our closest peeps as DF (for “dirty feet”). Now, we would never say this about someone who was a good person. This woman having this unfortunate hygiene/skin issue was icing on the cake (or dust in the cracks of her heels). She was, at best, annoying. We’ll leave it at that.

Anyway, so we’re always worried about those pesky dry heels and work religiously to keep our feet (at least our feet) youthful.

This means we’ve tried every form of pedicure and/or foot file around. There are several basic models. There’s a wood-handled file that is basically a large oval emery board on a, well, wood handle. One side is usually a tiny bit more coarse than the other.

There’s another version that is very similar, except the handle is made of plastic. Sometimes the plastic is filmsy and can break in the middle of a job. Sometimes it’s a little more substantial, but either way, there is no way around it: that emery board portion of the file will render itself useless after only a few uses. We had an Origins thick wood one that was nice while it lasted – which was not for long This might not bother some because they’re about $2. A higher range one is still under $10.

The next version is a pumice stone type of file. Like the one above, it can come with one side rougher/more coarse than the other. These work well on particular tenaciously dry heels and feet. There are steel version, and although below we say we haven't used the Caswell Massey one, but our Chairman of the Board, instead of bringing me the Deep Steep (see below), he brought me the steel file, Ms. Pedicure (which you can get at Nordies).

The final style isn’t one we’ve sampled, and it’s usually referred to as a Callus Rasp. It sometimes comes with an interchangeable head that is a shaver. This to me seems to be designed for some seriously challenged peds.

As we mentioned, we’ve not ever used what is called a Callus Rasp. Looks like a miniature cheese grater. Grossed out, much?

But we have finally, finally found the best foot file ever. The best ever. EVER. Seriously. Seriously (we just watched the soap opera that is Grey’s Anatomy).

It’s the 95-degrees and Sunny Crystal Nail Foot File. It’s actually like a large version of their regular nail file and it’s stunning what it can do. With only a little bit of attention, heels are so soft and smooth. Fantastic. You MUST get one. In fact, you get results that are unmatched – meaning, whatever the miracle of the 95* & Sunny file, your feet are suddenly completely smooth, like they were never rough or dry. You’ll not need another implement.

Here’s a look at the best and the rest.

The BEST Foot/Pedicure File EVER 95* & Sunny

Throw away those pumice stones. Glass foot file, 7.5 inches long. $9

This doesn't look like a traditional foot file, but it totally doesn't matter. The foot file for 95* and Sunny is the large size, it's like a steroid-ed up regular file, but is smoothly round and thick (get your head out of the gutter!). It's fantastic. And an amazing bargain.

95 and Sunny Nail File Uses

1. 95 and Sunny Nail file can be dipped repeatedly in water while using.
2. 95 and Sunny Nail file can be used for removal of hardened skin around nails, on the heels and soles (before & after use of crystal nail files rinse it in running water).

Properties
1. Therefore glass nail file is harmful neither to human health nor to the environment.
2. If used regularly glass nail file prevents a frequent nail disorder & nail chipping.
3. Glass nail files are not porous and can be sterilized with heat, liquid and UV lighting
4. Suitable for treatment of both natural and artificial nails regardless of their material
(recommended to dip the glass nail file in water while using.)

Maintenance
1. To keep glass nail file clean, it is sufficient to rinse it in running water after use.
2. To clean dirtier glass nail files employ a brush and detergent,
3. or organic diluents if needed.

Safety Instruction
1. Prevent uses of damaged or broken files it may caused injuries

2. Keep away from children under 5 years old, children are allowed to use the glass nail files under supervision of adults only.

3. The Nail file material is sterilized glass it does not present any health risk, but keep it clean with running water before & after use other wise bacteria or fungus left on Nail file and may be caused harm.

4. In case Nail file falling down & comes out broken, then immediately clean floor/surface to avoid injuries.

Toll Free: 1.888.95 FILES • Phone: 480.883.3709 • Fax: 480.883.6625
E-mail: info@95andSunny.com www.95andsunny.com

Pumice and Stone (Can't Break Your Bones, And Names Never Hurt Us)

Dr. Scholl's Pedicure Essentials, Exfoliating Stone File: Wide, abrasive surface to easily exfoliate rough, dry skin on heels & soles. Made in Taiwan Directions: File clean, dry skin with gentle strokes until rough, hard skin is removed Warnings: Do not use if you have diabetes or poor blood circulation, or if there is any redness or inflammation in the area to be treated.

We’ve used this, and it’s fine, but it’s very coarse and much better to suited to those with very dry or tenacious calluses. $4.99

Titania Oval Pumice File Create fancy free feet with Oval Pumice File. Includes a large oval pumice sponge to melt away calluses on one side of it and an emery foot file on the other side to smooth away any rough skin. Best if used moist. Made in Germany. $3.99 This is very similar to the Dr. Scholl one which we actually have.

We also have the Dr. Scholl’s Pedicure Essentials Contoured File (Uniquely curved design follows your natural contours -Smoothes away rough, hard skin easily), which we would not recommend at all. It’s pretty much not-effective. We suspect that it’s been discontinued.

Tweezerman Glass Pedicure File 5213-R

Elegant new Crystal File features a unique tempered glass surface that smoothes calluses and never wears out. This attractive foot smoother features a unique tempered glass surface that never wears out. For a flawless pedicure, use to smooth calluses on feet and between toes. Includes carrying case. $15

We haven’t tried this, but it sounds a little similar to our big rave, the 95* and Sunny Crystal Nail File. We cannot vouch much for this, but check it out. At $6 more than the one we’ve tried and love, we seriously doubt it’s better or even as good. But it may be more readily available.

The Traditional Foot File

Wood Pedicure Groomer $1.99 and Club1 Pedicure Foot File – Red Heavy-duty, double-sided file smoothes calluses and other rough areas on the feet. Red. $2 We have both of these (or at least, every close facsimiles). They’re good in a pinch, but as mentioned above, do wear out quickly and need to be replaced. They cannot be soaked to disinfect, so do not share.

As Seen On the Internet
But Not Sampled By Us

Caswell Massey Stainless Steel Foot File Riding your feet of unwanted callouses can be daunting and uncomfortable. Not anymore. Caswell-Massey's Foot Stainless Steel File has a specially contured handle that makes it easy to apply pressure; and the polished steel plate with its abrasion "cells" will return your feet to their soft, comfortable natural pliability.

Tweezerman Professional Pedicure Set Give yourself a salon-quality pedicure at home with this professional pedicure kit. This Tweezerman set contains: Callus Corn Shaver, Foot Rasp, Toenail Clippers, Toenail Scissors, Sapphire Nail File, Toe Separators, and Replacement Razor Blades. $20.95

Rasps

Venus Double-Sided Removable Callus Rasp

This special pedicure aid allows you to customize your foot treatment for the best results. This callus rasp is round for hard to reach areas on your feet and between toes. Flat Dual - Head rasp comes to rescue when you are looking to smooth and soften rough and callused skin. Two different surfaces, Course side for rough areas , smooth side for delicate areas, and for finishing and smoothing. Washable , removable rasps for easy cleaning . Convenient handle design allows you to change rasp heads quickly and easily Best used on moist skin to remove calluses from sides and bottom of feet. Work back and forth with a pressing, pulling motion. Smooth side can also be used on elbows and fingers. Unsnap rasps and rinse with warm soapy water.

$17.

Tweezerman Callus & Corn Shaver with Rasp

Completely remove unsightly calluses and corns with this Tweezerman kit. First shave calluses with the versatile Callus Shaver, then smooth skin with the snap-on Callus Rasp.

Directions: Best used on moist skin. Draw Shaver across the corn or callus in a shaving motion to remove thin layers of dead skin. Do not shave live skin. After shaving corns or calluses, snap Rasp onto head of Shaver and work back and forth over callused area to smooth skin.

$13

Fine Feet

You’ll have them if you follow these instructions (cribbed from the net, and without credit/byline, but edited by BeansTalk)

For hard skin on heels and soles or if you have dry or cracked skin, treat them in a special manner. A refreshing soak may help, but you may require a hydrating soak and even an overnight balm to moisturize feet to ease the process of exfoliating hard skin.

To start moisturizing feet, soak in warm water mixed with essential oils. Some recommended essential oils include neroli oil, which is known to smoothen and invigorate the skin (and smells so good, it should be it’s own fragrance line) and olive oil which functions as a softener.

A 20-minute soak aids in eliminating hard skin on your heels. After drying feet, use a foot file. File hard skin away using a front and back motion. Always take a break from filing to check to see if skin’s smoother. Do not over file and stop immediately if skin starts to hurt.

The common places where feet tend to have dead skin are on the heels, at the bottom of big toes, tops of little toes and balls of the feet.

After filing, hydrate newly exposed part of the feet using moisturizer such as hemp oil or a shea-butter balm. First, apply the balm or lotion then protect feet with a deep moisturizing foot bootie or cotton sock. The effect is amazing as feet will be hydrated dramatically.

Final Finishing Touch

You may have a favorite, but these are what we use right now

Deep Steep Camphor Geranium Foot Moisture Stick Shea and cocoa butters combine with our blend of the finest essential oils to make this all natural formulation the perfect super moisturizer. This stick's hard working emollients target dry skin returning your toes to their soft beginnings. 2.5 oz. $16. inmyskin.net

Aveda Foot Relief: If your feet have it rough, treat them to a soothing creme blended with active herbs, exfoliating fruit acids and plant-derived oils like jojoba and castor. Even tough, stressed feet are smoothed, cooled and moisture-charged.

Invigorates sore, tired feet and legs

Softens and smoothes calluses and dry patches

Helps deodorize with lavender and rosemary oils

Absorbs quickly (BeansTalk note: our friend Paula Paige tried this yesterday [as she went sample crazy at the Aveda store], but used it as hand lotion, she loved the scent so much, but even though it clearly says Foot Relief, she found it too intense for hands) 4.2 oz. $18

Candalology

Burn Baby Burn
Light Your Fire

There’s a lot to love about candles. For one thing, lit in the evening, they improve your looks by 40% . That’s a scientific fact. Alright, that’s a lie. It’s not a scientific fact, but it’s a BeansTalk fact.

We don’t entirely get how they used to actually use candles as a nighttime light source. We can’t help but think that there were a lot of people who loved to read who suffered from poor eyesight due to the strain.

Our big party tip is to put light candles and generally dim the atmosphere. Not only does it camouflage our perennially messy home, but it really is pretty and cozy. Today’s candles also can smell fantastic. In fact, whatever scent you like, from white cake to absinthe (we don’t know what that actually smells like, since it’s, well, illegal in the U.S. and have never been in Amsterdam, or wherever they still sell it). D.L. Little sells those super expensive candles. Something slightly larger than the votive is like $75. We met hin (and didn’t get sample, by the way, so we can’t review or categorize it; but they look good).

We also try not to mix up too many scents to confuse the pleasures of the nose. Here are our picks for the best in homey-ness.

Candles are made of various kinds of wax and soy – these are the most readily available. Soy is notable in that it doesn’t emit a black fog that will attach itself to your walls and ceiling. You might notice a grey tint in rooms where you frequently use wax candles. It’s difficult to clean, but best not to let it build up.

Perhaps our best advice of all is to ONLY BUY CANDLES MADE IN THE U.S.A. We realize that makes us sound all patriotic and stuff, but it really is about not getting lead into your lungs and saving the paint in your room and getting a candle that actually lasts as long as it says it will. Candles that are foreign made are not monitored in the same manner. And they never, ever last as long.

Chesapeake Bay candles seem to be everywhere. Their packaging is terrific. But that’s where it ends. They are, in our opinion, nice to look at, sucky to use. They don’t burn evenly, they’re not made in the U.S. and they are soot city. They often sell them at Ross (which if you’re a BeansTalk reader, you know we love, but this is one of those things you don’t buy there).

Candle can be very pricey. You don’t have to buy a super expensive one (back to the D.L. Little ones) to get a good quality, but take time and do make an investment, for your health, for your home, for your comfort and relaxation – which are keys to candles, which we already know are an incentive to romance.

Don’t scrimp on candles. That’s the best advice we can give you right now, in this time of creating ambiance. Candles are like band-aids. Don’t buy generic. Or cheap. They won’t last as long as good ones, you’ll lose the wick or it will get sooty, leave wax on the sides of the container or all over your holder, and you’ll have to toss it anyway. (Again, we’re so all about the bargains, but this isn’t something you should cut corners with) But we will say, although we’ve used the photos of D.L. Candles, we’ve never used them, we’ve never been given them, and Doug himself told us that he’s all about the packaging. Yes, they’re beautiful, in their rare original cast from an antique mold and Burmese-silk boxes.

[Just FYI; we love this concept, but can't wrap our tiny wallet around the price....

D.L. & Co. candles are based on various poisons and are comprised of a patented blend of high-grade European waxes, many of which are used for luxury body creams and lotions. One immediately feels the difference in the wax when one runs a finger along its milky surface. Moist, but not greasy, it is virtually absorbed into the skin upon contact. D.L. & Co.'s candle wax formula not only burns cleaner than any other candle, it also houses the delicately balanced essential oils without altering their fragrance character. The wax in D.L. & Co. candles are specifically designed to have a low melting temperature, thereby yielding a greater liquefied surface area by which to better release the fragrance held within.

D.L. & Co. candle's love and appreciation for finely crafted glassware served as the inspiration for the distinctive scalloped glass that houses this fine candle. Evoking the fine vessels that flourished at the turn of the century until the middle of the 20th century, D.L.'s candle glass recalls the art deco period's penchant for organic yet stylized contours. The true brilliance of this floral design lies not only in its visual elegance, but also in that the form itself actually amplifies the fragrance while the candle is alight. When awakened, the D.L. & Co candle's fragrance reverberates into the air with a surprising liveliness.

Stitched in Burmese silk, these carefully crafted containers recall the boxes that held cufflinks and collars in a glorious day gone by. DL's candle is enclosed in a black satin ribbon imported from France, chosen for its exquisite sheen and weight. The smallest candles are $65, but most average $125. www.candledelirium.com/DL--Co-Candles]

Candles Part 1

Best Mass-Market Candle: Yankee. You can find Yankee Candles just about anywhere, including some chain drugstores, as well as Hallmark Stores. They’ve been around since 1969 and are easy and reliable, for a wax candle. Their candle products come in hundreds of fragrances, styles and sizes, including Housewarmer® jar candles, Samplers® votive candles, Tarts® wax potpourri, designer pillars, tapers and scented tea lights. They’re well made, last long, the wick retains its integrity, there is a minimal amout of black smoke to build up on your walls and ceilings (for a wax candle, at any rate). Yes, they are a little bit of the Beanie Baby crowd, but they get the job done and the fact that you can buy them nearly anywhere commands props for them. 22 oz. Jar candles are about $23. Tea Lights are $9. www.yankeecandle.com

Candles Part 2

Most Elegant: Voluspa The packaging is beautiful, the scents last a long time. This is probably the perfect hostess gift, very classy. They come in varies as exotic as Capri Fig Frangipani, Champaca Bloom & Fern, Santiago Huckleberry, French Cade & Lavender. We gave our (day job) boss Baltic Amber to go along with the yoga he’s recently taken up. Here’s what Voluspa says: This candle will fragrance a room like no other. Our soft wax formulation lends to the creation of an extended burn time and the abundance of fragrance used will easily scent even the largest room. Three-wick candles are $18. Three-wick in a luxe ceramic bowl, $40. Votives are $6. www.voluspacandles.com

Candles Part 3

Best Blended Candles: Root They claim the “Best Candle in America,” and while we think that’s a little hyperbolic, they’re very nice. They’re a blend of wax and soy, so the texture and integrity of the candle is very good. They offer clear, fresh scents. The Chairman of the Board’s teacher liked the Cinnamon Bark one he gave her for Halloween. At least, that’s what she said in her thank you note. In doing this little piece, we also discovered they have a gigantic liturgical candle selection. That’s just how they roll! From their site: Root Candles, America’s oldest candle manufacturer, has been selling products to specialty shops for more than 100 years. The fifth generation Ohio-based company are sold in fine gift and specialty shops across the country and are still based where they started in 1869 in Medina, Ohio in a beautifully restored original brick building. Photo shows Root’s Metro Light Collection. You really should check out the site for just the sheer volume of choice. Votive box set of 9, $20.50; 6 oz. tin, $11; Boxed square glass, $21.25; Travel tins are $9, Grecian Pillar (larger roundy squat ones) are $49. If you live in or near Medina, Ohio, there’s even an outlet shop. www.rootcandles.com

Candles Part 4

Best Travel Candle: Moodivations. Perfect size, great price (less than $10), lovely scent. This company is run by one of the Chairman of the Board's all-time favorite professores. www.moodivations.com (site is under reconstruction, but you can call the number on the site for products).

Candles Part 5

Best Dual-Purpose Candle: Dino MorraThe skin care guru has created a Crème Candle in three scents. Crème is the first collagen-infused candle that can be applied directly to the skin once warmed and the super-hydrating formula leaves skin (they say, we haven’t tried it yet) smooth, radiant and supple. Morra was creating it originally for his tony clientele who include Pamela Anderson, Lucy Liu, Amy Smart, Mariska Hargitay, and Denise Richards. Crème contains collagen which helps the skin retain moisture. Antioxidants provide protection from free radicals, while soy, Vitamin E and C enrich the Crème with anti-aging benefits. Light the candle, let it melt into a creamy substance, extinguish the flame, us the provided spatula and apply all over, as a body massage or to treat rough patches on elbows, knees and feet. The three scents are Spa Comfort, Grapefruit Citrus and Lavender Vanilla $37.50 www.dinomorra.com

Candles Part 6

Best to Get Your Romance On: Letters For Her They say the products were inspired by a love affair long ago, but the all soy candles are new and fresh. They’re available (and coordinate with other like-scented products, shea butter lotion, bar soap, hand soap) in Lemon Verbena, Lavender, Ocean Blue, Green Tea Leaves (we like the sound of that scent) and Wildflower. We have the Lavendar which is your basic all-purpose feel good scent. There is actually a very nostalgic story explained on their site, under Other Discoveries. We’ll give you a little bit to whet your appetite: items found in a 110-year-old Victorian home attic, including a letter in the 1 November 1943 Life Magazine. We’ll tell you their names: Antonio and Rachel. Real people. Real romance. Sigh. Better than a bodice-ripper novel. Check it out. 5.5 oz. candle $18. www.lettersforher.com

Candles Part 7

Best Soy If You Have Money to Burn: e'rgo. Money to burn like Catherine Zeta Jones, for example. We heard that she once bought out the entire hand-poured E'rgo collection at a shop in (pricey –we know we were there in 2005 Summer) Bermuda. These are simply gorgeous candles, with fantastic scents. This is what they say on their site: “Er'go produces the highest quality candles possible with absolutely no compromise. 100% soy wax, premium fragrances and pure cotton wicks combine to produce a candle that meets our high standards. Our candles are hand poured in er'go's factory in order to ensure this level of distinction. Once you burn an er'go candle you will know why it is the original premium fragrance soy candle.” 2 oz. travel tins, $4.95. Standard 7 oz. candle $20. www.ergocandles.com

Candles Part 8

Best Gift for Your Boss or Mother-In-Law: Votivo. Like Voluspa, these are very beautiful, elegant candles. They feature the combination of gorgeous packaging and great candles. They’re not, however, cheap. We’ve just learned their Oprah’s favorite. So I guess that means you know that they’re good. Or that she liked them, her peeps called the company and they offered to give one of their $25 votives to each of her audience members on her “Favorite Things” show. Oh. Look what we found. A quote "Nothing's better for some instant ambience than scented candles. They're all gorgeous, but Rain is my favorite scent." — Oprah. In Style Magazine, March 2000:
"These days, aromatic candles are a dime a dozen. What sets Votivo candles apart are their exotic, supremely potent scents, which are developed by perfumer's and added to long-lasting, high quality paraffin. Choose from 19 Votivo candle scents including: Rain and Red Currant (the choice of Madonna, Tori Spelling, and Bruce Willis)." Their Red Currant candle is yummy. We’ve never bought any of these but have been very grateful to receive them as gifts. Fine wax combines with fine fragrance. They don’t have their own website, but a variety of high-end sites sell them, Google’em.

Candles Part 9

Best Gift for Your Spiritual Leader or Spouse: Diptyque. We say spouse because that means that you’ll get the benefit of these fantastic (and fantastically expensive) candles. Again, nothing we’ve ever bought, but have been super lucky and have been gifted. There’s something very late 1700s/early 1800s about them. They are so not cheap. They’re $48 each. We don’t know how many ounces they are, but they’re supposed to burn for 50 hours. Oh. It’s 190 gms. They say this: All the Diptyque fragrances are natural, whether they are woodsy, spicy, green, floral or fruity. It is Diptyque's proudest accomplishment to have never used a synthetic fragrance in developing its products. The individually hand-poured candles burn for an average of 50 to 60 hours and are made of paraffin wax with a lead-free wick. A speciality of Diptyque is to allow one the opportunity to create their own fragrance! To that effect, Diptyque suggests to burn two different scents of candles at the same time. The recommendation is that the candles should be from different families of scents (do not burn two floral or two woodsy at the same time). Please note the candles should also burn far from each other so that the blend created can be best appreciated in the middle of the room. We haven’t timed our precious Diptyque. They’re also sold on the internet, at various boutiques. www.diptyque.tm.fr

Candles Part 10

Best Hand-Poured/Best New/Best All-Around: Candology. We confess we know the owners of this company and adore them! Still, as you might have guessed, we love candles and would only promote the best. These are fantastic. They are the creations of Diana and Christian Espiritu, and made in Los Angeles. They’re soy, too. So basically, they meet all the BeansTalk criterion!

We also would like to help promote the hell out of them because they’re a start-up, but one that is completely, utterly worth checking out. We’re hoping you get all your holiday gifts here, or at least many. Diana learned the craft, hand-carving candles, as a small girl in Texas, just as she was starting school, honing her innate ability to blend colors and scents and secrets at her mother Diane’s side. We’ve met Diane and she’s super, too. In other words, this is a family business. But unlike Roots, its origins are only the last couple of decades. Still, they know what they’re doing.

Now, our (honest) opnion. We had some reservations about candles made in the way Candology is made, with the layers. It’s beautiful to look at and smells wonderful, but would it really burn down evenly? Yup. They do. And they are incredibly inexpensive for what you get. Here’s the 411 directly from them: hand-crafted superior quality candles. 100 % Pure Essential Oils. We artistically blend colors and pure essential oils evoking vibrant candle with aroma therapy. 100% Hemp Wick. Delight your senses with the warm glow of our all natural hemp wick. No lead. Not chemically treated. (BTW, BeansTalk loves loves that they use a hemp wick. Awesome!) 100% Distinctive. Each candle is hand poured, therefore, has a one-of-a-kind appearance. www.candology.com/

Love Chocolate? We Do
Madison's Pecan Crunch

We are so happy. We just ate almost the entire package of Madison’s “mouthwatering” Pecan Crunch. Dark Chocolate. It is super yummy. We consider ourselves quite the chocolate conniseurs and this candy is FANTASTIC. And wonderful because it's very different than you might think, certainly unexpected, and in a very good way.

Founder, Anna Marie Carusos, established Basket Bowtique & Gifts Ltd. 10 years ago.
Madison’s “mouthwatering” Crunch is a family recipe that turned sugar, pecans and chocolate into a delicious crunch that is just a touch softer, a bit more decadent than any other you have ever sampled. This all-natural, handmade taste sensation comes in milk & dark chocolate and have an array of different bags and tins. They also offer private labeling.

Madison’s process for producing pecan crunch has been uniquely developed and has met with raving reviews from all who have tasted it. Madison’s can be found at: Ritz Carlton (Nationwide), W Hotel Chains, The Ocean Club, Aruba Resort & Spa among others.

Madison’s 100% Pecan Crunch is available in several options.

8 oz. Tins (12 per case).

5 oz. Gift Bags (12 per case).

3 oz. Tins (24 per case).

The following selections are available:

Pecan Crunch Dark Chocolate

Pecan Crunch Milk Chocolate

Almond Crunch Milk Chocolate

Coconut Crunch Dark Chocolate

Madisoncrunch.com

New from XCVI: Pin Tuck Linen Dress in Fiesta Red ($122). Sold at Nordstrom and specialty boutiques nationwide.

Ooh Onna

We met some of the folks repping Onna Ehrlich at an Emmy Suite and admired the handbags there. On their site, onnaehrlich.com, they feature this $295 bag, which is not only cute but Ehrlich will donate 20% of the proceeds will go to Breast Cancer Research. Here's a way to give from the heart and benefit yourself.

Silky Style

Vanitas of California: Three sisters are better than one!



Last August, Taryn Band, owner of the emerging California clothing line Vanitas (latin for "TheVanities"), made a call to sister-in-law actress Jennifer Sky Band, wife of rocker brother Alex Band.” I need partners!" she exclaimed. After a full year of growing Vanitas from the ground up, the company had come to a point where both financial and creative help were crucial for the survival of this rapidly growing line. Jennifer was immediately interested in sharing this creative and business responsibility and thought that her sister, photographer Katie Wacha, would be the perfect companion partner. Thus Vanitas was reborn with three sisters at its helm.



Taryn, with four years experience as a wholesale rep for various denim lines, started Vanitas to fill the void in the over saturated denim market for a great fitting non-denim pant that her clients were craving. Vanitas was born on that concept, and since the sisters collaborated last year, this original concept has expanded it into a full collection focusing on fabulous dresses and amazing fitting pants. The girls saw the need for a chic mid range line that was as wearable as it was fashion forward.” We strive to create feminine, timeless clothing that makes women feel beautiful, sexy, and comfortable-where you can buy a dress or an outfit without breaking the bank", says Taryn. "Our emphasis is on vintage inspired pieces in soft, non-synthetic fibers, that move with you from day to night", says Jennifer. "We are so excited about the dress craze going on right now,” says Katie "we definitely have the most fun coming up with new dress ideas- we kind of can't stop!"



The sisters do everything hands on from designing, manufacturing, building their website, coordinating photo shoots, even sometimes being their own models. Coming from such different career paths has hugely benefited the girls in running this multi faceted company.


Vanitas ships to better boutiques in over forty states as well as Anthropologie stores and catalogs nation wide. "We are still using our original sewers in Downtown Los Angeles for our production. The labor is double what it would be but we do not compromise our quality by going overseas." The amount of boutique business has increased tremendously in the last year and simultaneously, so has their celebrity support from A-listers such as Mischa Barton, Cameron Diaz, Mandy Moore, Kelly Clarkson, and Kate Walsh. Vanitas at stores are nationwide and for a complete listing of where to buy www.vanitasofcalifornia.com.

Bikini Bound

We just got this and love it. At least the way it looks. Yes, we know. If you’ve seen us, you’re incredulous that we would even think of ever wearing it. We are all about the one piece suits with a skirt or the tankini and skirt. Alright, we couldn't wear it, but still, it’s super cute. So there. And it’s on sale right now. www.forplay.com Hula Girl: There's nothing cuter than this retro Hawaiian bikini. This traditional tropical hibiscus patterned swimsuit has a halter top and matching bottom. Both embellished with decorative front and side ties. Jewelry not included. Made in USA. 80% Lycra/ 20% Acetate. Lining: 100% Polyester. Brown Floral. S, M, L, XL. This swimsuit is water friendly Style # 445018 Regular Price: $68.00 On Sale: $29.99

AMC Salutes George Clooney

“George Clooney: An American Cinematheque Tribute” A One-Hour Special Presentation Featuring Tributes by Julia Roberts, Ellen Barkin, Don Cheadle, John Cusack, Matt Damon, Danny Devito, Morgan Freeman, Salma Hayek, Bonnie Hunt, Richard Kind, Julianna Margulies, Carl Reiner, David Strathairn, Noah Wyle, Renee Zellweger And Catherine Zeta-Jones



World Premiere Airs Wednesday, December 13 , 2006 at 8 p.m. ET & PT/7C on AMC



AMC will air a Hollywood tribute to George Clooney, Tinseltown’s ultimate Renaissance man. In a relatively short time this multi Academy Award-winner has proven his talents as an actor, director, writer and producer. AMC pays homage to Clooney’s career when it presents George Clooney: An American Cinematheque Tribute. The World Premiere special airs Wednesday, December 13, 2006 at 8 p.m. ET & PT/7C. This telecast marks the fifth year that AMC is the exclusive broadcast presenter of this prestigious event.



Throughout the one-hour special, celebrity friends and colleagues share humorous personal stories about Clooney as they take viewers on a journey through his phenomenal career. The gala spotlights Clooney, one of the most admired and respected talents in the entertainment industry today, along with a troupe of celebrity pals including Julia Roberts (Ocean’s Eleven, Ocean’s Twelve, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind) who presents him with the 2006 American Cinematheque Award, Ellen Barkin (Ocean’s Thirteen), Don Cheadle (Ocean’s Eleven, Ocean’s Twelve, Out of Sight, Fail Safe), John Cusack (The Thin Red Line), Danny DeVito, Morgan Freeman, Salma Hayek (Spy Kids 3-D, From Dusk to Dawn); Bonnie Hunt, Richard Kind (Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, Waiting for Woody), Julianna Margulies (“ER”), Carl Reiner (Ocean’s Eleven, Ocean’s Twelve), and Noah Wyle (“ER”). Friends sending tributes via taped messages include: Matt Damon (Ocean’s Eleven, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, Syriana), David Strathairn (Good Night and Good Luck), Renee Zellweger, and Catherine Zeta-Jones (Intolerable Cruelty, Ocean’s Twelve). The information in parentheses indicates projects each of these individuals worked on with George Clooney. In addition to the celebrity tributes and roasts, the jazz scene’s hottest new singer/composer, Peter Cincotti, performs before the star-filled audience. George Clooney: An American Cinematheque Tribute was taped at the Beverly Hilton Hotel before a live audience on October 13, 2006.

AMC will follow the award presentation with the network premiere of Clooney’s directorial debut, CONFESSIONS OF A DANGEROUS MIND, starring Sam Rockwell, Drew Barrymore and Dick Clark at 9 PM ET &PT/8C.

Academy Award winner George Clooney has gone from television actor to motion picture actor to producer, executive producer and director. He was honored with three Academy Award nominations, the first time in history an individual has garnered three Oscar nominations for two different films in the same year: as Best Director and for Best Original Screenplay for Good Night, and Good Luck and as Best Supporting Actor in Syriana. Clooney received the Stanley Kramer Award from the Producers Guild of America for Good Night, and Good Luck. The award honors films that demonstrate social justice. Coming up is Tony Gilroy’s MICHAEL CLAYTON, which co-stars Tom Wilkinson and Tilda Swinton, due out in 2007 and Steven Soderbergh’s OCEAN’S THIRTEEN, which is currently in production.

The American Cinematheque is a non-profit, viewer-supported organization dedicated exclusively to the public presentation of the Moving Picture in all its forms. The Cinematheque presents the best of film and video – ranging from the classics to the outer frontiers of the art form. Previous honorees have included a who’s who of the entertainment industry including Al Pacino, Steven Spielberg, Mel Gibson, Tom Cruise, John Travolta, Denzel Washington, Nicole Kidman and Steve Martin to name a few.

Back in Black

It’s called Black Radiance because it’s designed specifically for African Americans, but that doesn’t mean that it won’t work for you, whatever shade of the rainbow you are. There’s a variety of colors and combinations. In terms of eye shadow alone, there are singles, duos, quads (like the one seen here), loose powder.

* Starry Eyes is an enchanting palette of must-have eye shadows
* Black Radiance makes it beautifully easy to create glamorously defined eyes
* Stroke on these silky, iridescent cream shadows to create sexy eyes looks
* Starry Eye shadows is a moist, intensely pigmented formula that applies like a cream and dries to a powder finish for super coverage
* Perfect for day or evening, just use a little more or a little less
* Light shades add glowing shimmer, deep shades add intense glistening color
* Use darker shade to contour eyes and lighter shade to highlight or for all over color
* Sleek mirrored compact with handy mirror and two petite applicators
* Made in China. $4.99.

There’s a full range of makeup and accessories. Super affordable. Available at Walgreens.

Belle Gifts

In our pre-holiday gifting state, we’re going to continue to profile potential gift items. They’ll be suitable for the holiday, birthdays, anniversarys, just for the hell of it, whatever you might need.

Here’s La Bijou Belle’s backstory: Ever since she was a little girl in Cleveland, Ohio and began putting together scrapbooks with designs by fashion greats Coco Chanel, Christian Lacroix, and Yves Saint Laurent Jeannine Denholm has been inspired to create. But since she couldn't sew and mom and dad would have been horrified if she moved to Paris or New York to pursue fashion, she went into television instead.

Fast forward several years to Los Angeles, her new hometown, where many television jobs and an Emmy later Jeannine began to get bored. She quickly turned to a new passion which was transforming old grandmother vintage jewelry into something you could wear today. And that's how La Bijou Belle, The Beautiful Jewel, was born.

Jeannine's style is constantly evolving and so is La Bijou Belle. Not only does the line include classic bridal designs, it also has funky 1950's Lucite bracelets with beautiful vintage clasps, wonderful one of a kind pendant necklaces and earrings made from vintage flea market findings. Each piece is unique just like the girl who wears them.

BeansTalk Pick:

Winter Wonderland (008 -2A) Whoever said you can't wear white after labor day, obviously didn't have these earrings. Freshwater pearls/Vintage silver flower Limited Edition 2 1⁄2 inches long
$195

ww.labijoubelle.com

Enveloping Throws

Who doesn’t like to be cozy? We sure do. This winter, make your home a place you’re anxious to get to (not just a place to go to after work). Here are the first set of tips from BeansTalk about what we think might help.

Throws

These are in tremendous abundance now, and good deals are to be had nearly everywhere. We got some wonderful ones at Ross and Marshall’s. For those with more coin to spare, Kashwere makes an amazing throw (we have a couple we got at Marshall’s – we were introduced to this line more than a couple of years ago at an Oscar suite, but weren’t given a sample robe or throw, we actually found one at a store). Kashwere is one of Oprah’s favorite things.

We’re a little picky. We absolutely don’t like fringe. We don’t like the micro-sueded ones out now, and the heavy faux lambswool fleece aren’t so great either. If you’re the type who gets cold easily and aren’t allergic to down (like we are), there are also quilted down throws. They're like smaller-scale camping blankets .

Chenille makes for a super-soft thrown, but beware that they snag easily. There’s faux fur for those who like the look. There’s also every version of fleece imaginable. Cashmere throws that probably could double as a wrap are available on overstock.com for less than $200.

There are some single-stitch quilts that are great, too. They’re beautiful and cozy. We like things without fringe, but that’s just our thing. There are all kinds of super-soft ones and run generally from as inexpensive as $8.99 at Ross to $19.99 at TJ Maxx.

A throw is fantastic to use on top of your bedcovers, as you read or watch TV, in the living room while you watch TV or read, or at your home office, or even as a passenger in the car. They’re the epitome of cozy and a must-have for a home in winter.

Here are some options:


Lux: This is the one we have (we actually have two in navy and one in light grey), but bear in mind we paid $22 each for them. We take these on vacay and use them as part of our traveling linens.
Throw Navy: Wrap yourself in a Kashwére throw and feel the unforgettable warmth and comfort that leaves all Kashwére customers pampered in luxury. The Kashwére throw is heavenly soft yet woven with the utmost care to provide durability and stylish good looks. Our throw is designed to withstand many washings and will never shrink, wrinkle or pill if proper care instructions are followed. The throw is a perfect compliment in any setting. Measures 48” x 70” $155 on kashwereathome.com

Personalized: We’re all about the personalization stuff. In fact, we’ve already ordered most of our holiday gifts, many with a personal touch. Linen N’ Things, www.lnt.com, offers this: my-PhotoArt® Woven Throw Gift Box Transform your favorite photograph into a full color woven throw blanket. Skilled weavers transform YOUR favorite photos into a woven heirloom. Each woven photo blanket measures a generous 50" x 60", is 100% easy care cotton and can be machine-washed and dried. With a my-PhotoArt® Gift Box, the process couldn't be easier! Select a special photo of a baby, child, wedding, family or pet. Or choose an image you're especially fond of that commemorates a graduation, vacation, holiday, anniversary or reunion. Each my-PhotoArt® Gift Box includes all instructions and mailing materials required to send a copy of your photo print or CD to our art studio. You can also upload your digital photo online. Or simply give the gift box, the PERFECT present for any occasion. Images used are representations of the finished product. $124.99

Sleek Chenille: Mohawk Sanctuary Chenille Throw This is pretty and soft, but we’re not crazy it’s dry-clean only. Still it’s a kind of silky soft feeling many of you might like. This chenille throw offers a warm touch when draped on your sofa or arm chair and warm comfort when wrapped around you an a brisk night. Features 55% cotton, 45% rayon woven Dry clean only. www.lnt.com Available Colors: Champagne, Eggplant, Evergreen, Cranberry, Black From $16.99 to $29.99

Poodle Throw Exclusively at domestications.com: They've added new colors to this popular collection. A throw that lets you enjoy this unique softness as you lounge in your favorite chair. Polyester microfiber curly poodle fibers with cotton backing. Satin backing. Polyester fill. Machine wash; line dry. Imported. $19.99

Egyptian Cotton The JCPenney Home Collection Bigger Throw www.jcpenny.com: At 50x70", our generously sized throw gives you more room for snuggling. And it's incredibly soft, too! * 100% Egyptian cotton * Ring spun with long staple fibers for a luxurious, ultra-soft texture and durability * Thermal weave makes it ideal for year-round comfort * Washable Patterns may vary. USA. On Sale: $19.99

Micro Mink: We actually have the sage colored throw. It’s amazingly soft; we got it at either Ross or Marshalls (we can’t remember). At any rate Jacques Peh-nay (JC Penney) offert his: Micro Mink Blanket & Throw Lavishly plush, this faux mink blanket and throw offer the sumptuous feel and warmth of mink fur. A sleek sheen creates an even more luxurious look. Washable for easy care 100% microfiber polyester Year-round comfort Imported. They sell them in different colors and in combinations (twin plus throw, queen plus throw, etc). On Sale $14.99 to $52.99.