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Get Ready for Fashion’s Night Out 2011

September 2, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld Leave a Comment
Visit Fashionsnightout.com for a full listing of events in your area.

Attention all fashionistas!

fno_official

Visit Fashionsnightout.com for a full listing of events in your area.

As many of you already know DC’s 2011 Fashion Night Out is only a few days away and if you want to make the most of it, you will need to plan ahead. If you are asking yourself,“What is Fashion Night Out?” then click here to read more about it, but in a nut shell, it is a night of after hours shopping full of fun, fashion, and the occasional cocktail that takes place for one night in 100 cities across 15 countries.

accessorize_fno

Visit Accessorize.com/FNO for more details.

This year’s “Epic Evening” promises to be bigger and better than last year’s with over 90 celebrations taking place at boutiques, salons and restaurants in and around Georgetown. There are some additional events at Pentagon City such as the Accessorize FNO celebration hosted by Markette and Vanessa of DC on Heels, and other events at Chevy Chase Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus and of course, Tyson’s Galleria.

But the main attraction is Georgetown. I personally will be starting off the evening at a private reception at L2 Lounge and then I will be hitting the sales! Most of the stores will have fantastic incentives to shop from 6pm to as late as 11pm.

Visit FashionsNightOutGeorgetownDC.com for more details.

I know that Hu’s Wear and Hu’s Shoes will be offering 80% off their vintage archives! If you are not familiar with these stores, they carry couture lines such as Chloe, Brian Atwood and Fendi. If that’s not quite your speed, BCBG is offering 20% off their fall merchandise, a gift with purchase, and you can enjoy complimentary champagne and hors d’oeurves while you shop. In fact several of the boutiques will have spirits, gifts and even entertainment.

Betsy Johnson and Intermix were two of my favorites last year and are high on my list again this year. Two other notable locations that have made my list are Cusp and FotoDC. They will both offer unique photo opportunities for you to share with your friends. FotoDC will actually be projecting photos on the PNC Bank building so if you have always been envious of the larger than life images in Time Square, make sure you come dressed to be seen and this could be your moment.

Ever get that dizzy feeling from too much shopping and not enough eating? (I’ve only heard about it.) Anyway, several area restaurants and bakeries have you covered. Morton’s, Sequoia and Mie n Yu will be offering all night happy hour prices on food and drinks, Bankok Joe’s is offering a free glass of wine with a receipt of $75 or more and Sprinkles and Georgetown Cupcakes will be giving out free cupcakes.

There are also a few events that are more entertainment than shopping. Citronelle presents couture, food and wine for Vintage en Vogue at the Latham Hotel. Tickets are still available, click here for more.

As you can tell there is a lot of ground to cover and only a few hours to do it. Last year I was prepared for this. I had my bottle of water and wore my most comfortable pair of shoes that would still be socially acceptable. I LOVE the new fashionable looks available from Sofft. They never do me wrong, even on the cobblestone streets of Georgetown! Unfortunately, my shopping entourage had not planned ahead and felt that Dior stilettos and leopard Louboutin booties would be appropriate choices for the evening. Luckily this year there will be free “shop and rides” available from Pedi-cabs! Just show your receipt and don’t forget to tip!

There are too many events to cover so check out the Fashion Night Out DC website or just call your favorite boutique to see what they have planned. If I have missed something that you think is a must-see, please comment below and we will share it with our readers.

Happy Shopping!

Michelle Schoenfeld

 

Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” and Events contributor for DC on Heels

Renu Med Spa and Plastic Surgery
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com

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P.S. — Here’s more info on the Citronelle event listed above:

Vintage en Vogue: On Thursday || September 8 || 6PM-10PM || the lobby of The Latham Hotel becomes a mix of catwalk and culinary, by offering guests a Fashion’s Night Out experience of designer wineries, hors d’oeuvres and the hautest looks of fall.

Fashion Night Out is back! On the heels of NY Fashion Week, the always haute Michel Richard Citronelle joins Georgetown, DC in celebrating Fashion Night Out with our own exclusive fashion party, Vintage en Vogue. Michel Richard Citronelle will combine the worlds of food, wine and fashion during this global fashion phenomenon.

On the runway, MyDCStyle.com’s April Jones Firoozabadi shares her expert fashion tips and techniques and offers a look at what the well dressed will be wearing this coming season. She will present day-into-evening themed fabulous Fall trends from ||Banana Republic || during the two fashion shows
Show 1 @ 7:00 PM (entry at 6PM)
Show 2 @ 8:30 PM (entry at 8PM)

Master Sommelier – Kathryn Morgan – offers a Fashionista Wine Bar featuring wines from some of the world’s finest houses of style including Seglia, a Bordeaux from Chateau Rauzan-Segla for Chanel and Talbott Chardonnay from Robert Talbott.

Butlered hors d’oeuvres from the acclaimed kitchen of Citronelle will be fashionably served.

Drawings will be held at each show for door prizes (general admission) and grand prizes (VIP admission), from parking passes in Georgetown, and cocktails at Michel at Tysons Corner to overnight stays at The Latham Hotel and dinners at Citronelle.

Tickets will be sold in advance (202) 625-2150, and at the door, for admission to one of our two fashion shows: 6-8pm or 8-10pm.

General admission tickets ($25) – include passed hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, and a chance to win Door Prizes.

VIP tickets ($40) – include passed hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, and a chance to win the Grand Prizes.

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Beauty Buzz: Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

July 27, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld 4 Comments
Rihanna for Vita Coco

Rihanna is fan of the hydrating properties of coconut water. The pop princess is even a spokesperson for Vita CoCo.

Sad but true, summer is half over. With temps soaring into the 100s and casual cocktails with friends a little too frequent, if you are anything like me you have slipped off the skincare bandwagon, or beach shuttle might be more like it, at least once this season. Being a “glass half full” kind of girl, the good news is there is still plenty of summer left to enjoy and it’s never too late to get back on track.

The most important thing you can do for your skin is hydrate from the inside and out! Water is your friend. In fact often times when you are exposed to extreme heat and you feel hungry you are actually dehydrated and are better off grabbing something to drink containing electrolytes than a snack.

Coconut water is my go-to drink of choice when I’m not in the mood for regular H20. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your weight (in ounces) a day. Example: if you weigh 120 lbs, then drink 60 oz of water, and add slightly more when it’s crazy hot or you are exercising.

Before I address hydrating from the outside, there is a key step that is easily pushed to the side as we slip into lazy summer routines: exfoliation. When you see someone with sexy arms or legs and get skin envy, I guarantee you they are exfoliating. It doesn’t have to be a production or done with expensive sea salt scrubs… although I LOVE a dead sea salt scrub… the $4.00 gloves from any drug store will work almost as well. The important part is sloughing off the old skin so you can properly hydrate what is underneath. If you have to shave, exfoliate first and make sure you don’t shave with soap, which can dry you out. If you are traveling, conditioner in a pinch is always a winner.

Have you tried SkinMedica? This intense moisturizing cream claims to replenish and hydrate extremely dry and cracked skin.

Now for the tough part… Everyone seems to have their favorite lotion or body oil, yet I still get asked all the time what works best. The truth is there is no one product that does miracles. I have a girlfriend with the sexiest St. Tropez skin ever. She is pushing 40 and I have never seen her look anything but radiant. I finally got her to dish on what she uses that can be purchased domestically. The products on her vanity are more diverse than the United Nations, but her two favs are still Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Skin Therapy Oil in the shower, followed by Curel’s Ultra Healing Lotion.

I have tried both and would highly recommend them. The cocoa oil has a delish scent, but can be a little slippery. I used it recently before I headed out for the evening and obviously used too much because my legs were slipping off each other every time I tried to cross them.

A few other products I would recommend are:

• Skin Medica’s Ceratopic Replenishing Cream for severely dry skin-available at RENU
• Australian Gold Hemp Nation with hemp seed oil
• Neutrogena Body Oil, light sesame formula

Last, but not least, for skin that literally glows like Beyoncé try one of the many new shimmer lotions to hit the market this year. I’m not talking about last year’s body glitter. None of us want to look like we just walked off the set of a Ke$ha video. This season’s products are much more subtle, but will give you just enough glisten.

Victoria’s Secret, Hawaiian Tropic and Jergens are just a few of the easy to find brands now making shimmer lotions. The higher end cosmetic lines also have some nice additions this year but my experience is that they are often out of stock this late in the season.

beyonce

Beyonce's skin glows in this Sports Illustrated photo shoot.

What products do you use? I want to hear from YOU, the readers, about your favorite body moisturizers. Send me a message in the comments section below and I will try your suggestions. PLUS, I”ll give a $50 Renu Med Spa gift card to the person who suggests the product I like the most!!!

Enjoy the rest of your summer…and please, don’t forget your sunscreen!
Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Medspa and Plastic Surgery
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com

Michelle Schoenfeld

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Summer in the (Capital) City

July 2, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld Leave a Comment
book_jacket_summerinthecity

Earlier this week I slipped into my favorite Manolo Blahniks and headed to the rooftop soiree at The Residences on the Avenue in Foggy Bottom to attend the DC launch of Candace Bushnell’s new book, Summer & the City.

A sequel to The Carrie Diaries, Summer & the City is an entertaining read about how it all got started. If you are an SATC fan, then you will enjoy discovering how Carrie grew into a New York icon and how she met and became friends with Miranda and Samantha… but enough about the book.

The author herself was completely adorable and gracious. I had the opportunity to speak with her for quite a while about the excitement of living in NYC and about her Connecticut residence in the country. As she was telling me about her new horse and her recent trip to the ER for being thrown, I couldn’t help but make a mental note of her Herve Leger dress that I had drooled over online and her understated, but perfectly paired nude YSL Palais peep toes. She is definitely a girl after my own heart.

Ms. Bushnell signed books, posed for fan photos, mingled among the well coiffed crowd and never complained. With the Washington Monument visible in the background, the atmosphere was made complete by sounds courtesy of the always sexy, DJ Neekola. Other highlights of the evening included a self-guided tour of “The Carrie Closet” designed by Neiman Marcus and, in the true spirit of Candace’s style, the free flowing champagne served in pink flutes by well toned wait staff in form fitting t-shirts was not lost on me!

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to confirm who the real Mr. Big is, but not knowing is half the fun!

The "Sex and the City" author autographs her new book, "Summer & the City" for Michelle Schoenfeld. (Photo Courtesy Revamp.com)

Author Candace Bushnell with snaps a pic with event cohost, Eun Yang of NBC Washington.

WUSA 9's Angie Goff and guest shop 'til they drop in the "Carrie Closet."

If you want to meet Candace Bushnell, then you're going to have wait in line!

Special Thanks to the Event Hostesses:
Katherine Kallinis
Sophie LaMontagne
Veronica Valencia-Sarukhan
Eun Yang

Happy summer reading!

Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Medspa and Plastic Surgery
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com

Michelle Schoenfeld

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Rammys: Carnivale da Cuisine

June 28, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld Leave a Comment
Rammys

Sunday night I had the honor of attending the 2011 Rammy Awards. The Rammy’s are the Academy Awards of the local cuisine scene and are coveted by local and national noteworthy chefs.

Rammys Carnivale Ballroom

The annual black tie event is sponsored by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington and is a who’s who of Washington foodies, critics and chefs. This year’s theme was “Carnevale de Cuisine” and a carnevale it was.

 

Photo Courtesy of Revamp.com

The evening started out with cocktails and oysters with more than 1,500 guests looking to see and be seen, followed by the award presentations with opening remarks by RAMW’s Lynne Breaux and Kris Rohr, and then topped off with dancing and delectable gourmet delights with inspired flavors from Chile, Mexico and Australia just to mention a few.

Rammys Mexico

My favorite was the fresh ceviche from Chile and a spicy corn cake from Mexico with a creamy vegetarian sauce to die for. But the highlight of the evening had to be Todd Gray winning Chef of the Year. With 10 prior nominations and a stellar reputation he is kind of like the Susan Lucci of the RAMMYs. Other highlights included José Andrés winning the Duke Zeibert Capital Achievement Award. The DZ award recognizes someone in the restaurant community who has had a great impact on the industry and it is an impressive honor to receive.

Rammys

Author, Michelle Schoenfeld (far right) enjoying The Rammys with friends.

I was personally pleased to see one of my favorites, Wolfgang Puck’s The Source grab an award and, although I am not hugely connected to the DC wine scene, it was also nice to see Taberna del Alabadero win the Wine Program Award.

For a complete rundown of winners, including Best New Restaurant check out the list below.

The 2011 RAMMY Award Winners:

Duke Zeibert Capital Achievement Award - José Andrés

Joan Hisaoka Associate Member - The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, DC

Neighborhood Gathering Place – Ted’s Bulletin, Washington, DC

Power Spot – Carmine’s, Washington, DC

Hottest Bar Scene - Chef Geoff’s – Tysons Corner, McLean, VA

Your Favorite Restaurant – Carmine’s, Washington, DC

Where Magazine Visitors’ Choice Award – Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington, DC

Restaurant Employee – Ryme Lansari – Café Atlantico/minibar, Washington, DC

Restaurant Manager – Hans Olson – Clyde’s of Reston, VA

Pastry Chef- Tiffany MacIssac – Neighborhood Restaurant Group, DC & VA

Upscale Casual Restaurant – Tabard Inn, Washington, DC

Rising Culinary Star – Kyle Bailey – Birch & Barley, Washington, DC

Best New Restaurant – Estadio, Washington, DC

Wine Program – Taberna del Alabardero, Washington, DC

Beverage/Mixology Program – Founding Farmers, Washington, DC

Fine Dining Restaurant – The Source by Wolfgang Puck, Washington, DC

Chef of the Year - Todd Gray – Equinox, Washington, DC

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Bon apetit!

Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Medspa and Plastic Surgery
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com

Michelle Schoenfeld

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How to Protect Your Gorgeous Skin in the Sun

May 27, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld Leave a Comment
The Price of Beauty: tanning can (sadly) lead to skin cancer.

Wow, I wish I knew then, what I know now! This applies to several things in my life, but today I am talking about sunscreen.

The Price of Beauty: sunburns, whether in the sun or in a bed, can (sadly) increase the risk of skin cancer (EPA.gov/sunwise).

With the money I have spent on correcting the damage caused by years of unsafe sun exposure, I could have rented a villa in the south of France for the summer!

I know what you are thinking: a little sun is healthy and who wants to look like they just crawled out from under a rock? Let’s face it, if pasty skin was sexy there would not be the flood of self-tanners, body bronzers and tanning salons that have hit the market over the past few years. I hear you, trust me! But… the reality is that sun exposure causes skin cancer and skin cancer can kill you. I had my first battle at 24!

Now that I have your attention, let me share with you a few helpful facts to help you pick the right sunscreen as we kick-off summer this Memorial Day weekend.

There are some great sunscreens out there and they don’t have to break your wallet. It used to be that they were broken down into two main categories: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreens mostly block UVB rays (the rays that cause sunburns). They have a lower SPF and rub in easily, sometimes even clear.

Physical sunscreens block the UVA rays (the deeper rays responsible for wrinkling, leathering and over all aging of the skin…and oh yeah, cancer), have a higher SPF and contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that make them white.

sunscreen_bikini

The Friday before Memorial Day is National "Don't Fry Day," a skin safety awareness day endorsed by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Now the Skin Cancer Foundation has come out with a new seal of recommendation to make it easier for you to decide which product to use (see list of recommended products here). The seal says either “Daily Use,” designed for short periods of daily exposure (think UVB chemical), or “Active” for extended periods of exposure (think UVA physical). The new seals are on some products already, but the complete list won’t hit stores until May 2012. Until then, the Skin Cancer Foundation’s website (www.skincancer.org) is a fantastic source of information.

I personally use Obagi products every day. We carry it at RENU and it’s great, but I also love Hawaiian Tropic when I’m at the beach. It smells great and reminds me of spring break… which is going back to if I knew then what I know now, but that’s another blog.

Putting on Sunscreen

Apply sunscreen every 2 hours to avoid burning.

Facts to keep in mind:

  • Nothing protects you 100 percent.
  • Darker skin tones still need sunscreen!
  • When in the sun, ALL sunscreens should be reapplied every 2 hours.
  • Most windows do NOT block UVA rays.
  • Even on the cloudiest of days, 40% of damaging rays still make it to the ground.
  • It’s never too late to start, getting the majority of damage as a child is a myth.
  • Tanning beds are even worse than the sun.
  • An Australian study showed 50% reduction in melanoma for people who wear SPF 16 every day.

Now, to get you into the groove of protecting your skin from the sun, Renu Med Spa has a GIVEAWAY!

  • Subscribe to DC on Heels (in the upper right hand corner of this website) to be automatically entered to win the GRAND PRIZE of $100 worth of sunscreen products and a stylish sun hat from Renu Med Spa.
  • 10 Runners-up will win an Obagi Travel Sunscreen!
Subscribe to DC on Heels

Subscribe to DC on Heels in the box on the top right of this page to be automatically entered to win!

The winners will be announced on Facebook & Twitter next Friday, June 3. If you win, you will be invited to Renu Med Spa to come pick up your prize.

Good luck and stay safe in the sun!

Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Medspa and Plastic Surgery
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com

Michelle Schoenfeld

Clarisonic Classic. Healthy skin and free shipping

 



 

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SAX! DC’s Sexy New Burlesque Lounge

May 24, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld Leave a Comment
sax_featured_image

Washington may never have the same swanky lounge scene as New York, but with the recent additions of SAX this May, Lincoln in March, and Buddha Bar in 2010, the city is headed in the right direction.

The scene was lively at the pre-opening party for SAX.

I recently had the pleasure of attending two of the opening parties for SAX Restaurant & Lounge located on 11th Street NW in the space formerly occupied by Posh and, prior to that, the Miami-inspired Ortanique.

Michelle at SAX

Author Michelle Schoenfeld (far left) at SAX with friends.

When I walked through the dimly lit holding area and into the impressive grand main room for the first time, I was pleased to see that it had retained some of the dramatic elements of the previous ventures, such as the two-story ceiling and large overlooking balconies. But SAX has added a provocative new spice all its own.

SAX Lounge

SAX Rules: Diners must spend a minimum of $75 per person on drinks and dinner and reservations are required.

The chic designs include red velvet booths, luxurious oversized chandeliers, a large well-staffed bar, and the not to be missed 2nd story wall to wall window, complete with a live and carefully choreographed burlesque style show.

SAX burlesque dancers

The burlesque show takes place behind a glass pane.

SAX Burlesque Dancers

Room with a View: dancers at SAX entertain from the upper level of the lounge.

For most I’m sure the sexy dancers were the main attraction, but I enjoyed the sure to be controversial murals cleverly placed along the walls and staircases just as much.

SAX Mural

One of the controversial murals at SAX.

The murals are easily overlooked due to the restaurant’s overall opulence, but you won’t want to miss them.

I don’t want to give too much away, but being a Texas girl my favorite has something to do with former President Bush having a rip-roarin good time.

I think owners Errol Lawrence and Nancy Kioda, who also own Oya and Sei, may have put their finger on what DC has been missing.

 

Bon appetit!

Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Medspa and Plastic Surgery
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com

Michelle Schoenfeld

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Beauty Buzz: Int’l Skincare Line Calls DC home

May 10, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld Leave a Comment
beauty skin care tips

I wouldn’t be doing the Beauty Buzz column justice if I didn’t introduce you to one of Washington’s best kept beauty secrets: Ada Polla and her fabulous botanical skincare line, Alchimie Forever.

Alchimie Interior

Click photo for more details about Alchimie Forever

Ada, a native of Switzerland, moved to DC to study at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, and she fell in love with the city. It was upon graduation in 2004 that she decided to bring her family’s skincare line to the United States.

Developed by her father (a dermatologist who specializes in laser therapy) and her mother (a biochemist), Alchimie Forever offers botanically based, hypoallergenic products designed to safely and effectively pamper even the most sensitive of skin.

Alchimie Forever’s line of luxurious serums, masks and lotions are gluten-free, never tested on animals and they are chalk full of antioxidants. The skincare products are available at medical spas, doctor’s offices and high-end day spas around the world. At Renu we have hand picked a few select products to carry, but a complete list is available on the company’s website: www.alchimie-forever.com.

Skincare enthusiast Ada Polla studied business at Georgetown University.

Nevermind the impressive mentions in Vogue and Elle… one look at Ms. Polla’s flawless skin and I was sold! My personal favorite is the Kantic Mask, which helps to cool, calm and brighten the skin after a peel or Microdermabrasion.

Alchimie’s US-based headquarters are located on Wisconsin Ave. in the heart of Georgetown. The European style showroom and spa are not open to the public, but Ms. Polla — who is serious about giving back to the community she now calls home — will often open up her doors to host a local or national charity event.

Alchimie Interior

The private headquarters of Alchimie Forever is occassionally opened to the public for charitable events.

So grab your heels and stay tuned for the insider scoop on what she’s doing next.

Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Med Spa and Plastic Surgery
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com
 

Michelle Schoenfeld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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Bikini Revolution!

April 16, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld 2 Comments
bikini_flyer
Wearing a bikini is a summertime ritual for many women in the United States and in Westernized nations around the world, but did you know that in Iran wearing a two piece is considered federal offense?!?!
model_black_bikini

Ready for a "Bikini Revolution"? Don't you think it's time... Iran? (Photos Courtesy: Prince Raassi, www.princeraassi.com)

At a recent party at L2 Lounge in Georgetown, I had the opportunity to take part in Bikini Revolution: a fashion show for the talented and fearless Iranian bathing suit designer, Tala Raassi. She was punished in her native Iran with 40 lashes just for wearing miniskirt.
tala_models

Tala, in white sequins, sparkles amongst the models wearing her designs.

Raassi is now designing swimwear here in America and says that she wants women around the world to be able to express themselves and that clothing is a huge part of “freedom of expression.” Unfortunately, wearing a bikini is a freedom that Raassi was not afforded in Iran, where she experienced firsthand the pain of oppression.
michelle and friends

Enjoying the fab event!

The showcase of her Dar Be Dar original swimwear designs was a celebration of women’s rights. The designs were innovative, original and, yes… sexy.  They were a true tribute to the designer’s talent and vision of helping women feel comfortable, while also celebrating the beauty of our bodies.

It was her life experiences that ultimately inspired her to create her own unique line.  The event, benefitting the Washington Humane Society, was attended by more than 200 fashionistas and I don’t want to take way from the positive energy that the event was all about, but Raassi’s story is a powerful one, and if you want to know more about her, then check out the following link featuring a video explaining her story in even more detail: Passion, Drive Pay Off for Iranian Bikini Designer.


– Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Medspa
www.renudc.com
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Lincoln: DC’s Newest Ultra Chic Restaurant & Lounge

March 29, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld 3 Comments
Lincoln Restaurant and Lounge

Introducing Lincoln… no, not our 16th President. It’s a cool new restaurant and lounge brought to you in part by Alan Popovsky, one of DC’s longtime hip restaurateurs (his earlier credits include Hudson and Felix).

Last Thursday Maggie O’Neill, the artist and designer who gave Lincoln its one-of-a-kind look, had a private viewing to showcase her fabulous creations. Skeptical that I could be wowed, it really is a must see – from the 1,000,000 copper pennies that make up the floor to the hundreds of clear lit jars suspended from the ceiling.

Lincoln Restaurant and Lounge

You also won’t want to miss the original artwork adorning the walls (even in the loo) and the Alice in Wonderland looking private white leather booth. I was not alone in my anticipation of being one of the first to preview Lincoln.

Lincoln Restaurant and Lounge

The DC beautiful crowd showed up with style. Among the guests were Becky Lee from Becky’s Fund, DC Housewife Mary Amons with husband, Rich, and daughter in tow, John Paul Hamilton, guests from the French Embassy and of course the always-beautiful guest of honor Maggie O’Neill.

The minute I walked through the door and was greeted by an eye-candy waiter with the signature drink of the evening I was grateful I had taken the time earlier to spruce up my straight-from-work beauty regime (see my 3 beauty secrets below).

If this was just a preview, I can only imagine what the April opening will bring!

Lincoln Restaurant DC
1110 Vermont Ave, NW
Washington, DC 2005

Reservations may be made starting next week.

Enjoy!

Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Med Spa
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com

Michelle Schoenfeld

P.S. — Need tips for getting glam before a night out on the town? Here are my 3 must-do beauty secrets:

(1) a good self tanner or instant bronzer (or a shimmer lotion if you have darker skin).

(2) Bumble and Bumble hair powder for a quick root touch up, and…

(3) The ever important lip gloss… plumping if you dare.

 


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Beauty Buzz: Dare to Bare w. Laser Hair Removal

March 19, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld 2 Comments
Brazilian Bikini Wax

If you need a martini to get through your Brazilian, then this piece might be for you!

With beach season getting closer and spring clothes in every boutique, it’s time to start thinking about showing a little leg again. Hopefully you haven’t neglected them all winter to the point that they resemble a desert cactus! But if so… have no fear. It’s not too late to take action.

Brazilian Bikini Wax

Have you ever gone... Brazilian?

Exfoliation and hydration are the easy parts, the real scare comes from the hair. Shaving is tedious and waxing is painful, which leaves the often dreaded, but coveted laser hair removal.

I’m sure you have heard at least one white knuckle story of pain and torture but thanks to modern technology, it doesn’t have to be that way. Below are a few tips if you are thinking about taking the plunge this year and permanently becoming hair-free.

TIPS & ADVICE for Laser Hair Removal:

  1. Do your research! There are a lot of Internet specials and commercials out there and all lasers are NOT created equal.
  2. Call the med spa… or doctor’s office before you buy anything and ask who will be performing the treatment: make sure it is a doctor, PA or nurse.
  3. Ask what type of laser(s) they have and if it is right for your skin type. For light and medium skin tones a diode laser is the gold standard (IPLs don’t work as well). At Renu we have the Soprano XL, it’s the most pain-free laser on the market, but there are some other effective brands on the market such as the LightSheer.If you have darker skin, the long pulse 1064 nd:yag is the best. Unfortunately it is a little more uncomfortable but it is the safest choice. If you are unsure, most good places will offer you a test spot if you ask.
    Brown Skinned Woman in Bikini Bottoms

    If you have darker skin, then a long pulse is best for laser hair removal.

  4. Be careful of using numbing creams on large areas. Read this article if you want to know more.
  5. Know what you want. I get asked by clients all the time when it comes to their bikini if they should do a triangle, Brazilian or go total commando! My answer is always the same. Laser hair removal is permanent like a tattoo. What seems cute and sexy now might not feel that way at 70. It’s a personal decision so go for it… just make sure you have given it some thought.
  6. Plan and prepare. Sun exposure is a no, no for 10-14 days before and after your treatment and usually 5-7 sessions are needed 6 weeks apart so check your calendar. You also need to shave before your appointment and no more waxing or tweezing. There has to be hair actively growing at your skin’s surface for the laser to work. (I should also point out that lasers don’t work on blonde, light red or grey hair…sorry, maybe try electrolysis).

Smooth sexy skin never goes out of style.

Good luck!

Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Med Spa and Plastic Surgery
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com

Michelle Schoenfeld


Filed Under: Beauty Buzz Tagged With: , , , ,

Beauty Buzz: Is a Chemical Peel For You?

March 4, 2011 By Michelle Schoenfeld 1 Comment
Beauty Buzz: Chemical Peels

Mmmm, nothing like a couple of warm sunny days to give me a case of spring fever and nothing like the sight of my skin in the rearview mirror to make me break out in a sweat.

Let’s face it, dull winter skin isn’t pretty, and moisturizers and make-up can only do so much. That’s why this is the time of year I turn to chemical peels.

Beauty Buzz: Chemical Peels

Don’t be scared off by the name. There are dozens of peels available these days including some made from natural acids and you don’t necessarily even have to peel. In fact the Oxygen Facial, a red carpet favorite, is actually an oxygenating peel designed to make your skin glow.

That said, my motto is, “let the peeling begin!” I want the old, dull skin whisked away to make room for the new fresh skin underneath. I like the strong corrective benefits of the VI Peel and the gentler yet effective Vitalize Peel, but my treatment of choice this time is the Rejuvenize Peel. The Rejuvenize Peel is an advanced exfoliating formulation that enhances just about any skin type with minimal downtime. I have an event in 2 weeks so the timing is perfect!

Aesthitican giving a chemical peel

If you are trying to decide if you are ready to “spring” into action and schedule a chemical peel, here are a few things to consider first:

1. What type of results are you looking for?
Having realistic expectations and knowing what you want to achieve are important topics to discuss with your skin care specialist so they can decide which peel will help you meet your goals.

2. How much downtime is realistic for your life style?
Peels are not one size fits all. Dramatic results can sometimes be achieved quickly with a deeper peel versus several light or medium peels, but you may need to take time off of work or clear your social calendar. If that’s not realistic for you then a series of lighter peels might be a more convenient option.

3. Peels are chemicals, so know who is touching your face!
When choosing a skin care specialist make sure you do your homework. I strongly feel that experience matters, especially when it comes to your skin. That said, I realize you have to start somewhere, so I would look for a med spa like Renu that is run by a physician or a dermatology practice that specializes in aesthetics. And don’t be afraid to ask questions before you make your appointment.

Enjoy!

Michelle Schoenfeld, “Beauty Buzz” expert for DC on Heels and co-owner of Renu Med Spa and Plastic Surgery
301.652.RENU (7368)
www.renudc.com

Michelle Schoenfeld


Filed Under: Beauty Buzz Tagged With: , ,