Latina on a Mission

If you received a text message from Payless between October 29, 2005 and October 29, 2010, you may be entitled to a merchandise credit worth up to $25.

This lawsuit alleges that Payless violated federal statute by sending unwanted and unsolicited text messages promoting Payless products to cell phone subscribers . The text messages usually originated from shortcodes 242424 or 747474. Examples of sent text messages are shown below.

Because I was raised to believe that sharing is caring, I wanted to pass along an email I received from the LOFT earlier today.

The LOFT is giving their Facebook Fans a $50 Off a $100 purchase coupon valid today only! The promo is good at stores and online so for those of you in New York who just don’t want to go outside during the city’s  first 2012 snowfall (like me!), this ones perfect for you! 

Click on the picture below to get the coupon.

Happy Shopping!

I discovered shoe clips when a friend of mine wore them. She took an inexpensive pair of black shoes and clipped on the shoe clips. I think it gave her shoes a nice pop!

Below are few shoe clips I discovered online. For more information, click on the photo.

Let’s talk! What do you think? Are they chic or do they just look cheap? Let us know in a comment!

As a single Mom with two boys it’s fallen to me to take them to get their haircuts at the Barbershop.

I admit the first few times I took Karl, I didn’t know the names of the styles or what was in style at the moment. I just knew he needed a haircut! Once I had Andrew, I was a pro. I could tell you the styles, what blade to use and exactly how I wanted it done.

Over the years, I watched and learned. Eventually I purchased hair clippers of my own and started cutting their hair. Those first few times were hard! The clippers were bulky, the cord was too short and their curly hair seemed to get caught in the blades.

Fast forward 10+ years and I now have the Philips Norelco DIY Hair Clipper Pro QC5530.

The Philips Norelco clippers are a huge improvement from my original clippers. The clipper has a rotating head that lets you cut around the head and neck, avoiding unnecessary slip-ups. It also has a precision trimmer attachment that gives you that clean line needed at the base of the neck, around their forehead and the sideburns. It can be used with or without a cord. Best of all, we can remove the blade and wash it, avoiding any bacteria buildup!

Perfect for your boyfriend, husband or son (minors should not cut their hair alone), the Philips Norelco DIY Hair Clipper Pro, which retails for $39.99, is a great gift for the holidays and beyond. Just make sure you include a card letting them know they can use the money they save from cutting their hair on YOU! Win-win verdad/right?

Good luck! / ¡Suerte!

MANDATORY ENTRY:

Let me know in a comment why you want to win the Philips Norelco DIY Hair Clipper Pro.

EXTRA ENTRIES AVAILABLE AFTER MANDATORY IS COMPLETED – LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY TO COUNT:

1. Subscribe to my blog via email or feed, follow my blog publicly with Google Friends and/or “Like” Latina On a Mission’s Facebook page for one (1) entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know!

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet URL in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away!

3. Follow @ShaveExperts and let them know WHY you want to win the Philips Norelco DIY Hair Clipper Pro.  Provide me with the tweet URL in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away!

@ShaveExperts I want DIY Hair Clippers because _(fill in the blank)_  #Giveaway #MsLatina #Men #Dad #Teen

4. Leave a comment on ANY other post, dated December 12, 2011 or later, for THREE (3) extra entries. Let me know you did so in the comments below.

5. Share this post or another on Google+, Stumble Upon, Technorati, Digg, and/or Facebook. Each post shared gives you 3 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

6. If you’re a blogger, sign up to become a Stiletto Media blogger and grab their button. Leave me your blog link in a comment so I can verify button placement!

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Giveaway ends January 6, 2012 at 11:59 A.M. EST

Open to US residents only

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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 2 days to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise.

Winners will be announced on the Giveaway Winners page.

This is a Guest Post written by Katrina, a mother, wife and long-time friend. Mil gracias/ Many thanks for raising awareness of LOFT and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s charm collection!

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I recently represented Ms. Latina at a very special media event held at the LOFT Flatiron on Fifth Avenue in New York. The event celebrated the launch of LOFT and St. Jude Research Hospital’s (“St. Jude’s”) Symbolic Charm Collection. They were not only perfect for holiday gift giving, but every sale benefits the patients of St. Jude. A perfect refelction of the holiday spirit!

The event was festive. Guests were welcomed with champagne, a variety of horderves and lots of good cheer. We learned about St. Jude’s role as the nation’s leading pediatric research and treatment center devoted specifically to children with cancer and other acute diseases. Their centers are comprehensive, covering the cost of food, travel and lodging for its patients and a family member, and therefore depend heavily on public funding for assistance in carrying out its mission to save lives.

LOFT, well known for its women apparel, fashion advice, trendy and versatile apparel, and accessories, have been an instrumental force in raising over $6.7 million to assist St. Jude in its mission.

This season, LOFT and its parent company ANN INC. used their strengths to create a Symbolic Charm Necklace Collection thats available for purchase this holiday season in stores and online.  At an affordable $26, the charms are a chic and cheap holiday option, $5 will be donated to St. Jude for each charm purchased!

The collection, shown below, represents Hope (Star-Shaped), Love (Flower-Shaped) and Joy (Heart-Shaped).

Katrina Newell, is a Contributing Writer of Latina On A Mission.

Disclosure: No monetary compensation was given for this post. It was written with the sole purpose of helping raise money for St. Jude Research Hospital’s.

I’m delighted to announce a new giveaway hosted by Vivemejor.com.

Vive Mejor, a division of Unilever Group of Companies, is a one stop resource for Latinas. The site offers tips, information, and advice to help us live better vidas/lives. The website is offered in both Spanish and English, making it easy for all to enjoy. You can follow them online at www.vivemejor.com, and on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, for the latest on beauty, food, and family tips from their panel of experts.

(1) The line of products from Vivemejor.com

(1) 150 Gift Card

(4) Movie tickets

Vive Mejor (Translation: Live Better) wants to make sure that you live an abundantly well rounded life; as a result, they want to provide one Latina On a Mission reader with a fabulous, fabulous – did I say FABULOUS? – gift basket filled with a ton of goodies! Just complete the mandatory entry below to enter. Want more chances? Read on!

¡Suerte! / Good luck!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Go to Vivemejor.com, look through their pages and tell me ONE thing you learned in a comment below.

If you don’t know how to read Spanish, like many of my friends (You know who you are … Christina!) you can view the page in English by clicking the link on the upper right hand side.

EXTRA ENTRIES – LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY:

1. Subscribe to my blog via email or feed, follow my blog publicly with Google Friends and/or “Like” Latina On a Mission’s Facebook page for one (1) entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know!

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet URL in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away!

Enter To Win a @ViveMejor Gift Basket Worth $250+: http://bit.ly/ViveMejor #Giveaway #MsLatina #beauty

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for two (2) extra entries.

4. Leave a comment on ANY other post for THREE (3) extra entries. Each comment must have been posted after December 18, 2011. Just don’t forget to let me know you did so in the comments below!

5. Share this post or another on Google+, Stumble Upon, Technorati, Digg, and/or Facebook.  Each post shared gives you 3 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

6. If you’re a blogger, sign up to become a Stiletto Media blogger and grab their button. Leave me your blog link in a comment so I can verify button placement!

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Giveaway ends January 3, 2011 at 12:01 A.M. EST

Open to US residents only

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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 2 days to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise.

Winners will be announced on the Giveaway Winners page.

Disclaimer: I will receive a similar basket from Vivemejor.com. I did not receive monetary compensation for this giveaway.

Modern women look to Cosmopolitan magazine for fashion, beauty, relationship advice and celebrity news for good reason. The magazine always has the latest and hottest info on your favorite stars, raciest relationship confessionals and tips, loads and loads of tips for the fashion and beauty obsessed!

You can sign up to receive the FREE Year of Cosmo Magazine (Digital) by clicking on the link below. By signing up for this offer you will receive 12 digital issues, starting with the January 2012 issue. The digital magazine can be read on your iPad, iPhone, Mac, and PC.

What’s the best thing about this deal?

There’re no strings attached so you’ll never receive a bill.

Disclosure: This subscription was purchased on your behalf by JewelMint.com. Clicking on the affiliate link will help support Latina On a Mission at no cost to you.

Grab it online and avoid the lines, or go in store, to get this deal: $7 Jingle Jammies! Just  make sure you hurry, this sale ends ends 12/18! Psst make sure you also check out the Tees for $5 as well.

To grab this Latinalicious sale, click BELOW.

Starting 12/17 – Weekend Wonder at OldNavy.com. Get $7 Jingle Jammies for the Family! In store and online! 2 days only. Ends 12/18!

Happy Shopping!

A few months ago Shabby Apple sponsored a giveaway on Latina On a Mission. It was such a huge hit with our savvy, fashion conscious readers that they came back to sponsor another!

Just in time for the holidays, Shabby Apple wants you to look festively beautiful with the above Red and White Stripped, 3/4 Length Sleeve, Boat Neck Dress. The dress is generously sized to fit fuller figures and curvaceous Latina hips. Dressed up or down the dress is sure to highlight what’s important…YOU!

Want to get a closer look at the dress?

Click on the image above.

Ready to win it?

Read on!

MANDATORY ENTRY:

To ENTER to win the Shabby Apple Dress, leave a comment on this blog post, AFTER you “like” Shabby Apple on Facebook.

EXTRA ENTRIES AVAILABLE FTER MANDATORY IS COMPLETED – LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY TO COUNT:

1. Subscribe to my blog via email or feed, follow my blog publicly with Google Friends and/or “Like” Latina On a Mission’s Facebook page for one (1) entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know!

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet URL in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away!

3. Leave a comment on ANY other post, dated December 12, 2011 or later, for THREE (3) extra entries. Let me know you did so in the comments below.

4. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for two (2) extra entries.

5. Share this post or another on Google+,  Stumble Upon, Technorati, Digg, and/or Facebook. Each post shared gives you 3 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

6. If you’re a blogger, sign up to become a Stiletto Media blogger and grab their button. Leave me your blog link in a comment so I can verify button placement!

As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 2 days to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise.

Winners will be announced on the Giveaway Winners page.

Let’s Talk!

Are they Chic or do they look Cheap? Let us know in a comment!

Click on photo for more details on the above Long Sleeve Chiffon Dress at PiperLime. Interested? Sign up for PiperLime’s email list to receive 15% off at PiperLime.

Let’s Talk!

 Are they Chic or do they look Cheap? Let us know in a comment!

Click on photo for more details on the above Naughty Monkey Boots at PiperLime. Interested? Sign up for PiperLime’s email list to receive 15% off at PiperLime.

Totsy offers moms on-the-go and moms-to-be access to brand-specific sales, up to 90% off retail, just for them and the kids, ages 0-7. Top brands for mom, baby, and child. Prenatal care products, baby gear, travel accessories, bedding and bath, children’s clothing, toys, DVDs, and educational materials are just a sampling of a selection that promises only the best in quality and designer brands. 100% eco-friendly: Totsy is the first company in private sales to take on sustainable and socially responsible initiatives in all areas of business.

One baby, one tree: With every purchase you make through Totsy, they will plant one tree in the name of your child to help reduce the effects of deforestation. Membership is FREE and helps you save up to 90% off the best brands for your family!

Who says shopping can’t save your wallet AND the world?

Click here to join Totsy.

Let’s Talk!

 Is it Chic or does it look just plain Cheap? Let us know in a comment!

Click on photo for more details on the above Color Block Dress at PiperLime. Interested? Sign up for PiperLime’s email list to receive 15% off at PiperLime.

I found the below two Boucle jackets on the Gap.com website.

Both jackets are form fitting, without being trashy, and can be dressed down or up. They are also on sale this weekend! If you use Ebates you can get 10.0% Cash Back on Gap orders, saving even more money.

The first jacket is leather trimmed and on sale for $149.99

Leather-Trim Boucle Jacket
Price:$149.99
Use ebates and earn 10% cash back.

Boule Jacket
Price:$44.98
Use Ebates and earn 10% cash back.

What do you think? Do they look chic or just plain cheap?

Let us know in a comment!

Disclosure: By using the above affiliate links you help support LOAM at no cost to yourself!

I love eyeshadow! When done properly it can make a woman look younger, trendy and oh sooo Latinalicious!

L’oreal, who’s sponsored the Project Runway look since it started, has released limited edition Project Runway eye shadows quads that I am totally loving! There are a total of four collections available: The Cockatoo, The Owl, The Amazon and The Raven.

Below is my fave, the #215 -Watchful Owl’s Gaze, which falls in the Owl collection.

Perfect for the Beauty buyer on a budget, the L’OréalProject Runway eyeshadow quads are available at CVS. In fact, all L’Oréal products are on sale this week at CVS.

Below you can see Collier Strong, a L’Oréal Paris professional make-up artist, using my fave, #215 -Watchful Owl’s Gaze.

What do you think? Would you wear it?

Lately, I’ve been spending more time taming the wild hairy beast than normal. Sadly, Fall didn’t bring me as the  flat iron reprieve that I sorely needed. Thinking I was going to have to spend the next few months fighting the wild hairy beast, also known as my hair, I was extremely happy to have the opportunity to review the new L’Oreal Studio Line.

When I received samples of the L’Oreal Studio Line I was delighted to see that it included their Silky Curls curl enhancing gel.  Since my hair has gone through a double process, dyed and highlighted,  I’m trying to stay away from the flat iron and go natural. The gel tamed the frizz and gave me manageable waves.  The waves were easy to make. I simply applied a small amount of gel to my hair, rolled sections of my hair and pinned them with bobby pins while I showered.  After getting dressed, I took the pins out and ran my fingers through my hair to get soft waves. Knowing the waves would fall as I went about my day, I sprayed my hair with the Mega Hairspray which made it last all day. Easy Peasy, exactly how I like it!

The line also has a Mega Gel, with ultimate control and definition, that seems perfect for those days when I want to go straight. I haven’t used it yet so can’t say if it actually works but I can say it smells delicious! They all do, in fact! The scent is very clean and doesn’t overpower. It will not clash with your perfume, which I think is very important.

In the end, which ever way I go, straight or curly, the L’Oreal line has a product to enhance my hair’s appearance. Plus, priced at under $5, the L’Oreal Studi Line won’t bust your budget. For that reason, I give it TWO thumbs up – one for price and one for doing what it claims!

What do you look for in your hair products? Let us know in a comment!

Click to save $1 on your L’Oreal Studio Line product purchase.

I was recently invited to a Back to School Bash for Tweens. Although I couldn’t go, I sent someone who would be able to give us the no frills inside scoop, Joyee.

Joyee is a teen with New York Style. She can spot the trends before they’ve hit the fashion magazines. Even better, she’s learned how to score most on a budget, making her the perfect go to for  holiday shopping ideas, girl trends, and Teen Talk™!

Although school is already in session, these items can be purchased anytime…because what tween doesn’t love an unexpected gift!

Read on for Joyee’s recap…

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Recently, Stardoll and Unilever held a back to school bash for parents and their tweens. The event showed the latest fashion and style for the upcoming season. Luckily, I had the chance to attend!

The tween bash was held at Hudson Studio and the place was fantastic. They even had the latest magazines of Marie Claire, Teen Vogue, and Allure out on display for the parents and daughters to browse through.

There was so much going on; I didn’t know where to go until I saw a display of clothing and shoes. I knew that was where I had to start.

Extracting ideas from a variety of runway shows, the eclectic mix of clothing was age appropriate and suitable for school, without sacrificing style.  The display gave parents, and their daughters, an idea of  this school year’s upcoming trends, including tips on how to use stripes, denim, scarves, prints, and pattern. Although I am not a tween, I found a few items that I would wear proudly. Below is one of my faves.

Not only did the event present upcoming trends, they also gave a crash course on the importance of good hygiene, noting Dove’s new Rebalance collection are an excellent way to maintain good hygiene. I have to agree. I loved the line, particularly the plum and sakura blossom scented products. I find that using these products gives a young girl, or any girl for that matter, an incentive to take care of themselves. The scented products help young girls feel feminine and grown-up in a way that is age appropriate.  It doesn’t require much effort and can easily be incorporated into a daily school routine. Something that I know parents will applaud because it will get us out of the bathroom faster!

This event was a great way to help tweens and parents prepare for back to school. I spoke to a few parents and their children before leaving. They all agreed that the discussions started at the event, paved the way for further discussions about their tweens growing bodies. I know those discussions can be hard to broach when you get that look from your daughter but as someone who’s been there, I can tell you we DO want to talk about it so keep trying. We listen more than you realize.

You can download a variety Dove toolkits to get you started in your discussions by clicking here.

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As a parent, have you talked to your Tween about hygiene?

How did you broach it?

Latina On a Mission will soon debut a Teen section where parents will get the opportunity to ask real teens questions. If you have any questions you would like to be considered, please feel free to leave them in a comment, noting whether you would like a male or female perspective. Our featured teens will answer the questions in LOAM’s bi-monthly “Teen Talk: Ask a Teen” post.

If you would rather submit the question anonymously, send an email to MsLatina@latinaonamission.com.  

What I really wanted to say, was piss me off.  I love manicures but never get them.  I rather go with unpolished nails than spend the money for a manicure that lasts me 5 hours.  At my job I am constantly looking at proofs and artwork.  Working with people and having to point out areas in the graphics that need a little attention.  

Yet what actually needed attention were my nails.  

I would at times tuck in my fingers to avoid showing my unpolished nails.  I felt they made me look sloppy or lazy. 

I thought I would never find something simple, until now… 

Although this nail polish has been around for about a year or so, I don’t think it caught on as much as it probably should have.  I only recently found out about it.  Shellac nails, gelac or gel nails - it goes by several different names- is amazing.  Unlike harsh acrylic nails, this manicure product goes over your natural nail and gets heat set with UV lights.  It seals onto your nails for 2 weeks!  I finally tried it 3 days ago and my nails are still great.  I’d rather pay the $20 or so then spend $7 -$10 on a regular manicure that will fail me within hours.  

I clean, cook, work hard, chase children, drive and the nails are still on point. I love it. Do yourself a favor and at least try it. Add it to your day of beauty, mine in Sundays. I won’t be skipping the manicures any more and because it lasts so long without getting ruined, I wouldn’t have to do it every Sunday. 

Psst…they now have an at home kit selling through Ulta! LOVE! 

I think that’s my next stop.  

Have you used Shellac/Gel nails? 

See Ms. Latina’s experience with Gel Nails by clicking HERE.

Post was written by Jeanette, a Latina On a Mission contributing writer, who still manages to make looking Latinalicious fácil/easy while working full-time and caring for her family!

Kate Winslet wore a figure enhancing Stella McCartney colorblock dress at the Venice Film Festival that was AMAZING. It made her appear curvier because of the colorblock styling. To see the dress click HERE.

Knowing I couldn’t afford THAT dress, I decided to look for a more affordable options.

Below is what I found at Macy’s for $99.

Below is a colorblock dress from Chadwicks,on clearance for $19.99.

What do you think about the above colorblock substitution? Chic AND Cheap or just plain cheap?

Let us know in a comment!

Disclosure: By purchasing an item from an above affiliate link you support Latina On a Mission without a cost to you! ¡Mil gracias!

Recently I wrote about my teeth whitening ordeal at the Dentist’s office. Trust me, it wasn’t pretty. In fact, it was downright painful.

Using the Crest 3D Whitestrips, on the other hand, was easy peasy and painless.

In the before (top picture) and after photos, shown below, I tested out one 2 hour treatment. The package comes with 4 treatments, a 12 month supply. Each treatment lasts for 3 months.

I enjoyed using this product for several reasons:

• Its cheaper than a visit to the Dentist.
• It’s enamel safe – very important for me.
• You can talk while wearing the strips.
• Convenience – No appointment required. Available in a variety of stores.
• It actually works!!

I would like to note that any whitening can cause sensitivity. With  the Crest 3D Whitestrips, my teeth were sensitive for about 2 days.  This is much less than what I experienced from whitening at the Dentist. I believe that lasted for about a month, but I’m sure that was because of the ordeal I went through. As I stated before, it wasn’t pretty.

In the end, I would recommend Crest 3D Whitestrips. Copying the words of Li, from  Her Deep Thoughts, “…they’re great & don’t strip ur enamel.” See original comment here.

SALE & COUPON ALERT:

• Crest 3D Whitestrips are currently on sale at CVS for $44.79 and normally retails for $55.99.
• Want to test out them out before purchasing? You can get Free Crest 3D White Samples by clicking HERE.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post created for Crest 3D Whitestrips. All opinions and dental anxiety are strictly my own.

I was laying down in a horizontal position preparing myself for what was to come. I knew today would be the day! He came in, smiled and told me to relax. I remember soft music playing in the background as I tried to keep my mind off of what was to come. I saw him pick up a sterile instrument and look at me.

Was it my imagination or did I see a maniacal look in his eyes?

He came toward me as his assistant put her hand on my shoulder. As I averted my eyes from his, I noticed her gazing at me with sympathy. She seemed to understand how I felt.

“Has she been through this as well?”, I thought.

Before I had a chance to dwell on it, I felt the metal touch me.

“Relax”, he said as he squeezed some type of fluid on me.

I couldn’t.

I felt trapped.

I couldn’t speak.

I wanted desperately to escape.

I grasped at the metal instrument trying to get it out of me! As I did so, the office became a hive of activity. He was screaming at me to stay still, while the nurse tried to grab my arms. It did no use.

I tried to scream but couldn’t.

I was gagging.

It burned.

A LOT.

Remembering that day in the Dentist’s office leaves me shaking. I went in to lighten the color my teeth. Yet the only thing I lighten that day was my purse. I also had burned gums from trying to yank out the metal instrument inserted in my mouth and a real dose of Dental anxiety that I had never experienced before.

[Sidenote: The burned gums were caused by the bleaching creme. The metal instrument was used to hold my mouth open so that the creme would not touch my cheeks or gums. When I tried to yank out the instrument, the bleach touched my gums and burned them. OUCH!]

As a coffee drinker, my teeth were stained. After my divorce, I went on a “beautifying kick”. I was going to show the world what I was made of! Ms. Latina was going to dazzle others every time she opened her mouth. HA! After that incident, I could barely open my mouth!

Suffice it to say that after that experience, I was very happy with the color of my teeth. Even the fact that only my upper teeth got brightened. So if you bump into me one day and are dazzled by the whiteness of my upper teeth, than shocked at the difference of my lower teeth, please imagine my plight and subsequent anxiety when I discovered that I would be unable to close my mouth or speak for one whole hour! GASP!

Hopefully, this will change before you meet me. I am going to try the Crest 3D Whitestrips because if my smile is going to speak a thousand words, I need to make sure it fully represents my sparkly demeanor!

This is my before pic. I never realized I had a crooked smile till I took it! Go figure! See after pic here.

Share your story: Have you whitened your teeth? How did you do it?

Psst …Get Crest 3D White Coupons and Special Offers by clicking HERE.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post created for Crest 3D Whitestrips. All opinions and dental anxiety are strictly my own.

In my previous post about the HP Pavilion dv6 I asked readers to let me know what they thought was important in a laptop. I received a few comments with the same responses, I’ve noted them below in no particular order.     

• Battery life
• Start Up/Speed
• Durability
• Screen Size/Brightness
• Memory/RAM
• Size/Weight

Seeing how so many readers had the same concerns, I decided to focus my HP Pavilion dv6 review on those responses. Note, I am not a techy. My review will be based on my experience with the laptop and will be written in layman’s terms.       

Start Up/Speed
The first time I started up the laptop , it seemed to take longer than most computers; however, I believe this was because I was overly excited. Additionally, I was required to register several products, like the Free 60-day Norton Internet Security 2011 Subscription and the HP SimplePass fingerprint reader, which comes with the laptop. After the initial log-on, future start ups were much quicker.     

In terms of speed, I found that I was able to have a few screens – sometimes 10 at a time- and various applications, like Word or Excel, open at the same time, without it impacting the speed or functionality of the laptop. This was a huge problem with my previous laptop and one that caused an amazing amount of frustration.
      

Battery Life
I’ve been using my HP Pavilion dv6 on a continuous basis since my last review. During that time, I’ve had to use the laptop for several hours. Based on my experience, I can get up to 6 hours. This is fabulous for people like me who need to get out of their home office every once in awhile since it makes it very easy to pack up and take to the park, Starbucks or just about anywhere!   

TIP: One thing I have found that destroys battery life in any laptop is when a user leaves it plugged in all the time. I used to do this with my last laptop and it is a huge no no. It will burn out your battery and cause it to work less, not more.     

Screen Size/Brightness
The HP Pavilion dv6 has a large screen, which I LOVE! It has a “15.6-inch diagonal HD BrightView display” that allows you to view a  1366 x 768  display. Perfect for seeing Latina On a Mission!      

The large screen means that I am not straining my eyes and am able to see more on a page without scrolling.  It also allows me to see what my son is doing when he is seated at the table and I am on the couch or in the kitchen, both approximately 3 feet away.      

The screen’s brightness levels can be adjusted to the user’s preference. As someone who is online for almost ten hours a day, this is an extremely important feature that protects my eyesight.   

TIP: Adjusting the brightness level on your screen and looking away from the screen from time to time is a great way to give your eyes a break.     

Size/Weight
The HP Pavilion dv6 is pretty big in all the right places yet still compact enough to travel with the user. The size of the laptop means that it has a standard keyboard, with a numeric keypad on the right handside. I’ve found this to be an asset when budgeting or doing Math homework with the little one. Best of all this laptop, won’t break your back – literally- since it weighs approximately 5 1/2 pounds.     

Memory/Ram     
As a budget friendly laptop, starting at $549.99,  most would assume that it does not have sufficient Memory/RAM for a person’s daily needs.  They are wrong. The laptop I received was the basic version. It has no added bells and whistles, yet it can still hold its own against higher priced models. It includes:    

• Operating System: Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
  This operating system makes it easier and faster to launch applications and/or find documents. It also makes going online faster, easier and safer with Internet Explorer 8. 
• Processor: 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i3-2310M
  This processor lets you switch between applications with Intel Hyper-Threading Technology. This technology provides a faster experience because of the 4-way multi-task processing it uses that automatically speeds up the system, when the PC needs an extra performance boost.
• Memory: 4GB DDR3 System Memory (1 DIMM)
  The 4GB DDR3 System Memory will allow you to use more programs at once and make them run faster. Also, when you purchase the laptop via HP, you get a FREE Upgrade to 6GB DDR3 System Memory (2 Dimm). ¡Wepa! Click to purchase your HP Pavilion dv6 and get FREE memory upgrade    

Durability     
With two dogs and two boys, I know accidents happen. Knowing this durability is always at the top of my list, and based on my readers responses, its on the top of their lists as well. I will like to note that I did not put my new brushed aluminum laptop to any tests. Meaning I was not about to throw it to the ground, let someone step on it or give it to a dog to gnaw, just to prove its durability! As a result, I’m basing this portion of the review on information provided by HP. See below.

I would like to note that HP is the preferred laptop for the U.S. Air Force and the Navy. Knowing they use these laptops in extreme conditions, makes me believe that my chaotic lifestyle will not come near the extremes they do in the service. Based on that, I think its safe to say that this laptop will last in my household or yours!

This post only touched the items readers requested in my previous post. The next post will discuss entertainment features! As a frequent YouTube user, I have to admit I loved this portion of the review.
     

Do you Skype, watch movies or YouTube on your laptop?      

Psst stay tuned! One Latinalicious reader is going to have an opportunity to win a HP Pavilion dv6 right here on Latina On a Mission!

Omthe word many use during Yoga, to de-stress, relax and unwind, brings on the same vibe that Olay gives Jeanette in her daily beauty regimen.

Read on to find out why she was chanting her own mantra at the New York Olay Pro-X Hot Yoga Event, held at the Exhale Spa Upper East Side.

I have been a fan of Olay for years. One of my childhood memories was of my mother getting ready to step out, with musica/music playing softly in the background. She’d begin by using her daily moisturizer, Olay. I loved when she would allow me to put a little bit on my face.

To this day, the scent, the texture remind me of her. It soothesthe salsera in me; as a result, when Ms. Latina asked me to attend an event Olay had put together to introduce their Olay Professional ProX Clear anti-aging adult acne regimen I thought, “How perfect!”.

The event held at the Exhale Spa Yoga Studio in Manhattan gave me the chance to relive my childhood memories. I would also be able to pass on a tradition, one started by my own Mami, to my daughter, who accompanied me.

Together, at the Olay event, we bonded, just as my Mom and I had years ago. The only difference… the musica/music. Before my mother and I danced salsa steps as we giggled over her beauty regimen, here, my daughter and I would carry Olay yoga mats and chant “Om, Om, Ommmm to Olay”.

I also had the opportunity to meet with a dermatologist. She explained Olay’s 3 step program and noted how it could help my skin. Unlike my mother, I am prone to breakouts. Always have been. The pimples, normally associated with puberty, may bring on teenage angst, yet definitely not its youth! I had hoped that age would rid me of these darn pimples but I was wrong; as a result, I couldn’t wait to use Olay’s 3 Step Program.

The first few days I found myself enjoying the treatment, mainly because I felt like I was paying some attention to myself. Initially I had a bit of a break out, almost as if it was ridding my face of future pimples. It cleared up soon after, leaving my face clearer and brighter. As with yoga, a skin care regimen requires consistency and time to determine its success. From the first Om to the last, Olay helped my skin de-stress, relax and unwind, giving it a calm that not even a mantra could achieve!

Olay means trust to my mother & I. I look forward to passing that on to my daughter. I tell her to treat her skin well now and it will show its appreciation later. Olay is the way for her to begin, regardless of what stage of her life she is in!

Do you have any childhood memories of beauty products?

Disclosure: I received products to review at home. This in no way influenced my review. Some of my most treasured memories of my mother and I involve Olay. Now I am sharing our memories and creating new ones of Olay with my daughter as well. Thank you Olay!

As a child, I lived in a world of dieters. The women in my life were constantly trying new “fad” diets to lose another five more pounds.

They ate and complained. Said they took a bite and gained. It was an endless cycle of love and hate, with themselves and the bodies around them. Curves were shunned. They no longer believed the bodies given to them were worthy. In the US, thin was in. It was the year of the super models… of Twiggy like proportions.

Growing up, I recall telling my mother I wanted to be a model myself. I looked at the magazines and wanted to be them. They looked beautiful. They looked smart. They looked…happy, with themselves.

The look she gave me that day shattered my dream. I was what I call a curvy girl. Always have been. My lower body has always been stockier than most of those around me. And people noticed.

It took many, many years for me to become comfortable with myself, with my body. I didn’t always think my curves were Latinalicious. At that time, I just wanted to fit in, to become what others defined as “beautiful”.

I now see my body for what it is, regardless of what others may say. It sustains me. It has been pushed to extremes and survived. It is Latinalicious, not just because of its curves, but also for what it can do.

I stopped the cycle of fad diets passed down to me. There are no extremes. I do not want to pass it on to my sons. I now exercise because of the health benefits, not as a chore, or a means to an end, but as a way to strengthen myself, mentally as well as physically.

I will never be a “Twiggy”. I have curves and I celebrate them!

What size am I?

I am finally a size “Happy”.

What about you?

Above I fulfilled a childhood dream. I wasn’t chained by what others said I could do.  

I was a “model” for Macy’s Style and Co. Jeans. I loved them! Why? Because I didn’t have to alter my body to fit into them. I didn’t have to lose just 5 more pounds to put them on. They celebrated my Latinalicious curves! They fit me because they were made for “real” women, like you and I, not models. They even have tummy control, for those days when you eat just to many empanadas/beef patties, like I had done the day before!  

To read more about the jeans and see the Glamour and Macy’s Style & co video click here. You’ll have a chance to see my derriere in ways you never dreamed of: Close up

And do my feet need saving! Sadly, I couldn’t attend the event myself, but, thankfully, I had just the person who could.

As a full time Corporate Diva, busy Mami, and loving wife, Jeanette, can be on her feet for hours. Like me, she also loves her heels, knowing this, I HAD to get her to attend; as you can imagine, it didn’t take much presuading from my end to get her to kick off those heels!  After reading her review, I can totally say I wish it was me who had attended!  

Below is her recap.

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Dr. Scholl’s recently put an event together to showcase their products to shoe loving Divas like me.  As a Latina, I have to admit, I will wear my heels all day long,  regardless of the pain I’ll feel later.

I love to go out – when la familia /the family and career let’s me!  Give me some salsa music, good food and friends and it’s guaranteed to be a great night.  You know what’s also guaranteed? Foot pain from high heels. The great “FAST FLATS” by Dr. Scholl’s lets you go out knowing you have a backup plan. Enclosed in a cute carrying case are two super thin and comfortable flats. Easy to tuck into your bag and come to the rescue later.

Dr. Scholl’s is helping us rock our style with much less pain. They have special insoles for both closed and open-toe high heels.  They are thin and fit nicely into your shoes.  They balance out the weight and pressure on the ball of your foot, allowing you to stay in your heels longer and have more options when dressing up. 

For the casual days, where sandals come out to play, be sure to try “Dr. Scholl’s For Her Smooth My Sole Micro File”.  This device helps get rid of dry skin and calluses. It also comes with smoothing pads to buff your feet and make them soft.  With this device, our lovely sandals will now match with our lovely feet.   

Another great item they have is the “Rub Relief” Strips (LOVE!).  Toss it in your bag and use it when the straps start to rub or dig in.  It’s a foam strip that adheres to your shoe.  Think how your friends will love you when they start to complain about their shoes and you pull the strips out.  Bam! You saved the day!

At the event they supplied products, testers, a manicure and pedicure, and a podiatrist on hand to answer any foot questions we had.  They also showcased a cool new “Dr. Scholl’s Custom Fit Orthotic Center”. We got the opportunity to try out the Foot Mapping Technology. 

You can try it too, at Walmart, Walgreens and the pharmacy section of other fine stores.  The foot mapping allows the technology to measure your feet not only in length and width but in how you walk and the pressure you typically apply to certain areas of your feet.  We are all different and use our feet in different ways.  Some of us suffer from achy and tired feet.  With this new technology Dr. Scholl’s can fit us into one of their 14 orthopedic insert variations that will provide relief and support.  At a cost of less than $50.00, it also saves us from a trip to the podiatrist and an expensive, doctor prescribed orthotic.  Super convenient and quite impressive. 

With their large array of options for foot comfort, including super cute sneakers – see below (great with jeans, skirts and dresses), Dr.Scholl’s just may be able to actually save out feet!

Nerd.

Four eyes.

Coke bottle glasses.

These were the names I heard in 3rd grade when I got my first pair of glasses. 

When my oldest, Karl, was told he needed glasses, I cringed inside. I didn’t want him to go through what I did. Sadly, Karl did. He heard the same names as I did. 

When my youngest was told he needed glasses, I wanted to scream, “It’s not fair!”, while stamping my feet. Andrew, on the other hand, was excited! You see by this time glasses had become trendy. They were a stylish accessory. He couldn’t wait! 

He ran to the display, searching for a pair that was as bold as he. He found a few. I couldn’t resist, I brought him two pairs. When we picked them up, he bebopped all the way home.

He. Was. Proud.

Since then we’ve brought countless glasses, for him, for Karl,and for me. I used to spend a pretty penny on glasses. The boys had such a bad habit of losing or breaking their glasses.  It used to drive me batty! Thankfully, Karl has outgrown this. I’m still waiting for Andrew. Last year alone he had four pairs! YIKES!

This year will be different, not because he’s matured, but because we went to Lenscrafters. They were fabulous! They made him feel comfortable and explained every single step of the process. Here he is getting fitted for his new glasses.

But my truly favorite part…

Lenscrafters is having a 50% semi-annual sale.

What is the Lens-Annual Lens Event you ask?

Good question!

Its a Lenscrafters sale that gives consumers who buy a complete pair of glasses (meaning optical or sunglasses made with prescription lenses) 50% off the price of their lenses, until September 12th.

Even better, Lenscrafters also offers insurance, for an additional fee of course. This means that if he loses or breaks the glasses I can get another pair FREE! Woot! 

Now that’s what I call Latinalicious!

Disclosure: I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of LensCrafters and received a complimentary consultation and pair of glasses to facilitate my review.

Sometime ago I was given the opportunity to visit the CVS Headquarters. It was a day full of touring and speaking with their executives. I was given a glimpse of where CVS is heading this year and allowed to walk through their mock store. Amazingly, their mock store is larger than my actual store in the city!

I also had the opportunity to see their newest beauty line by Salma Hayek. The line, called Nuance, is a CVS branded line that brings top quality beauty products to consumers at moderate prices. The line was drawn from Salma Hayek’s experience with her grandmother’s homemade products. She used them as a young woman and continued to do so as she aged. Obviously, they are doing wonders because she is 45 and looks Latinalicious!

Below I recorded a video of Salma Hayek’s presentation of the line.

I love how she is an A List actress who hasn’t lost or tried to remove her Spanish accent. When she says “oxygenating” I can hear her accent so clearly and I smile inside (see :52). She succeeded, without losing her cultura / culture.  She is amazing and so is Nuance. You can hear her passion in the video when she speaks about it and her grandmother (see 3:00).

I was also able to learn more about the CVS ExtraCare Beauty Club and CVS ExtraCare customer rewards program, which this Latina swears by! I think they’re one of the better programs out there. It’s perfect for novice and/or expert couponers (extreme couponing anyone?). In fact, CVS goes out of it’s way to let you know when coupons from the Sunday paper can be combined with their sales by adding a special notice on their weekly circulars. It’s a great marketing tool that benefits consumers like you and me.

I have to tell you based on this trip, and my passion for all things savings, I’ve decided to do a weekly CVS sales alert. Even better, CVS will be collaborating with Latina On a Mission, by giving YOU, my lovely, Latinalicious readers, advance notice of sales! Can I get a Wepa?!

Till then happy savings!

¡Abrazos! /Hugs!

Disclosure: CVS/pharmacy is a Latina On a Mission, and in turn Stiletto Media, BlogHer 2011 sponsor; however, all opinions expressed on this blog regarding the event, CVS/pharmacy and products sold in their stores are strictly my own.

Hello my Latinalicious readers! It’s Friday. The day we scour the web for some fabulous finds.

This week, I discovered the below uber chic ring on etsy.com. I totally love the pink one! It would look amazing with hot Pink Stiletto’s at the Kick Off Your Heel (#KOYH) event during BlogHer, don’t you think?

Anywho, its on sale for 20% off when you use code “inventory20″ (Price with discount $7.20)!

So what do you think? Is it Chic or does it look  just plain Cheap?

I recently met Samantha Brown, a make up and hair stylist, at a beauty event in New York City.  We had such a great time talking about make-up and hair care that I asked her if she would write a guest post on haircare for Latina On a Mission. Thankfully, she agreed! Below you can read some of her haircare tips. I have to admit, I am a slacker with the hydrating.

What about you? Do you have any favorite hair tips you want to share? Let us know in a comment!

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Hair breakage, split ends brittle and frizzy hair? Most women will say its summer time hair; just blame it on the sun!  It’s more then the sun and hot weather, it’s about the condition of your hair before the hot weather arrived.  Maintaining your hair in the summer is very easy and not as hard as you think.

In the winter, we cover our hair with  hats and scarves. The summer is the time to be free with our hair! Don’t keep your hair in a bun or under a hat,  just use the right products and flaunt it!  The same way you take care of your skin with the changing seasons, you should be taking care of your hair. 

Here are some great tips on keeping your hair looking healthy through out the summer months.

Use hair products that contain SPF Protection

If you plan on spending a day at the beach lying in the sun and like me refuse to wear a hat. Use some protection on your scalp and hair so it won’t get burned. It will help save your tresses from sun.

Back off heated hair styling tools

 If you’re using a blow dryer, flat iron and curling irons during the winter try to lay off of it and give your hair a break for the summer months. Air drying not only leaves you feeling cool and refreshed in the hot weather but also gives you a fabulous way of adding some sexy wavy curls to your hair.

You can also add some leave in conditioner to your tresses and braid or twist them. Doing this will create some natural waves.

Shampoo Less

Here’s a trick, while washing your hair, rinse out your shampoo and apply your conditioner as usual. When washing out your conditioner never wash out the full amount leave a small amount of conditioner in your hair. This will help your hair to stay moisturized during the summer, especially if your hair is naturally curly or highly textured.

If you shampoo less it will allow your tresses to absorb more of the natural oils. Too much washing can leave your hair dry and brittle, however, if you are going to be in the pool. Remember to also consider using a deep conditioning treatment because the chlorine is very damaging to the hair.

Hydrate
Drinking water is a must! What goes on inside your body always reflects on the outside. Water always keeps your skin looking amazing but it works wonders even for your hair.

Take care of your tresses and you will never have to worry about restoring it!

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Want to get more tips from Samantha? Check out her website, Belle-Cheveux.com.

Joyee here! I’ve previously written on Latina On a Mission, but I have to say today’s post had me super excited! 

For this post, I created a  make up tutorial. I had the help of my wonderful friend Joyce Soto who didn’t mind letting me use her for this smoky look. For a party or a night out with friends, a smoky look can never do you wrong. Smoky eyes are great for a sexy and sophisticated look. 

Here’s my smoky eyes tutorial. Remember, start with a clean and moisturized face! 

STEP 1 

Before applying your foundation on the eyes, have a small amount on the back of your hands and warm it up by using a finger. The heat from your finger can make it easier for you to blend in your foundation. Dot your foundation onto your eyes as shown below. Preferably using the tip of your ring finger, gently blend the foundation. If you use concealer, only use a smaller amount for dark circles and the inner corner of the eye to make your eyes look brighter. Using too much concealer when you already have foundation on will make your eyes all cakey! Next, finish it off with Cover Girl’s Clean Pressed Powder, Oil Control. This will help with applying our creamy eye shadows. 

STEP 2 

For this tutorial I am using Cover Girl’s Smoky Eye Shadow Blast in Silver Sky 805. Apply Step 1 of the two colors onto your eye lid. Emphasize on the inner corners of your eyes, the brow bones, and the middle. If the color comes out light, do not over apply! It’s a cream eyeshadow, so constantly applying this eye shadow until the color shows will just cause more of a hassle for you! Instead, use an eye shadow of a similar color. This makes the color bright and vivid, and it can also prevent the cream eye shadow from creasing. 

STEP 3 

Using Step 2 of the eye shadow, start at the outer corner of your eye and apply the color half way towards the middle of your lid. Again, use an eye shadow of a similar color to set the color of the eye shadow and blend out the color. 

STEP 4 

Using Cover Girl’s Liquiline Blast Eyeliner in Black Fire, create a thick line along your lash line. Extend the line a little bit past the corner. Blend out the harsh line until it looks like it’s fading into the eye shadow. 

STEP 5 

Line your upper lid again, this time thinner, and fill in your waterline. For those who might have difficulty lining your waterline, do NOT yank your eye down to force your waterline to show. This does not make it easier for you! Not only can it cause future wrinkles because the skin around our eyes is thin and sensitive, it can also expose the inner parts of the eyes, which is very risky. From experience and watching some of my friends try to quickly line their waterline, half of the time the pencil’s touching the inside of their eyes!  The risk of eye infections from our recklessness! Use a q-tip and press gently under your eye and tilt you head down when you look at the mirror. The pressure you use on the q-tip should be enough for you to tell where your waterline is, but it should not be so much that the flesh from inside are obviously visible. 

Take your time and start from the outer corner to your inner corner. Line outside your waterline near the outer corner of your eyes and blend to create a smoky look for the bottom of your eyes. Really, take your time – if you need to blink, then blink. Being patient with your make up is worth it once you see the results of your hard work! 

STEP 6 

Last finishing touch? Mascara! Curl your eyelashes before applying mascara. For this tutorial I will be using Cover Girl’s Lash Blast Fusion. If you have a lash brush, brush your lashes to make it easier and neater to apply your mascara. For your upper lashes, slightly tilt your head back and, as if you’re looking at your chin, apply your mascara in order to prevent accidental smudges on your upper eyelid. You can apply at most two coats of mascara. For the bottom lashes, remove any excess amount of fluid from your mascara wand and using the tip, apply light pressure while you look at the mirror at eye level. Apply less when you reach around the inner corner of your eyes. If some mascara gets onto bottom of your eyes, do not panic, this might be useful for your smoky look! Using a q-tip or a sponge, blend the mascara into your eyeliner. 

There you have it! Joyee’s tutorial for smoky eyes.

Another important tip that every woman must keep in mind: confidence.

Feel good, look good, and you’ll do good!

With all the talk of chanclas on Twitter, I did a search for some cute ones. I love these from Payless. The colors pop and are sure to make stand out in a sea of black and brown chanclas!

They can be worn with jeans, shorts, a skirt and even while rushing to work in business wear. Just make sure you take them off at the office. Toes are a big, big  HR no no.

Payless Montego Bay Club Piper Ruffle Flip Flop (Sale Price: $19.99)

Payless Montego Bay Club Petunia Flower Sandal (Sale: $16.99)

Payless Dexter Port Jelly Sandal (Sale: $5.00!!!)

So what do you think? Are they chic or do they just look  cheap? Let us know in a comment!

I know many of you stated last week that you were not fans of the color yellow. Yet for some reason, I’m drawn to these yellow shoes.

What do you think? Are they Chic or just plain Cheap? Let us know in a comment!

Click to get more information on the shoe.

I love Twitter! It’s a great way to find out about great events, fashion freebies and so much more.

Today I saw the below tweet and just had to share.

I plan on going myself. Who can resist free a free pedicure, free massage and free SwitchFlops? These interchangeable flip flops are so adorable and much better than the ones they give you at the Spa!

To attend, just like the Marriott Resorts Caribbean and Mexico Facebook page and print out your event ticket!

Also, let me know in a comment if you’re attending, maybe we can do a tweet-up

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

I brought my 1st car in 2003.  A few months later, I crashed in a very weird chicken accident that caused a four car pile up. Thankfully, we survived.

It’s never let me down. It may not be the sexiest car, but I don’t think I could have handled sexy at that point.

Times have changed.

Now I can handle the big “S”. 

Which brings me to Chrysler’s Avenger.  I had the opportunity to test drive the Avenger, on a 25+ mile stretch from Tarry Town to Midtown, Manhattan.  I have to admit, I was sold before the drive.  I liked the designs’ angles and curves.  I also liked that it was a roomy, compact car.  The size made it perfect for parking in the streets of New York, where parking is always a challenge. Yet it was roomy enough to fit both my sons, as well as two of their friends, comfortably. Or, if you are a family with multiple small children, you can easily fit two car seats and one additional person in the back. 

I drove the car during a bad thunderstorm in New York City, which limited how fast I could go. However, based on my discussions with the designer, I am sure it would handle speed well. What the storm did let me test out were the car’s capabilities during bad weather. I felt safe inside, the tires didn’t hydroplane, and the ride was smooth. I would also like to note that the vehicle has front and side airbags, a tire pressure monitor (LOVE!) and 4 Wheel ABS.

Big Buddha Bahama Tote on sale for $65.99. Click for details.

I found the above yellow totebag on Piperlime.  What do you think? Cast your vote in a comment!

Chic or Cheap?

Summer is almost here (June 21 Chicas!), and ULTA’s ready with the season’s boldest trends. Expect to see bright corals, glowing skin, and super-cute shattered nails this summer. Try out bronzers. Go for a coral nail! Follow with a coat of shatter polish…and voila! You’re so on-trend.

Just make sure you use this coupon, courtesy of Glamour, to save $3.50 off a $10 purchase! Click HERE for the ULTA coupon. Pero avansa/ but hurry, it expires on 7/9/2011.

Happy Shopping! As always, don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Have you ever wondered how sexy is your car? The question may seem odd if you haven’t; however, as a single Latina in NYC, I do.  A car is a fashion statement, just like your hair, your clothes and your make-up. Albeit, a more expensive one, but a fashion statement nonetheless.

Humans judge others on appearance. Your car is an extension of your appearance. What you drive and how you drive speaks volumes. 

Which brings us back to the question:

How Sexy Is Your Car?

Sexiness is subjective. What’s sexy to me, may or may not be sexy to you. Knowing this, I’ve devised a list.  

Power

A man/woman who can drive a powerful car exudes sex appeal. Its even been said that how a person drives a car will give you some indication as to how they will treat their mate. Do they take risks? Do they rev the engine? Can they handle curves without freaking out?

Style

I like a hands on type of man. He must not be scared to get down and dirty. Yet, he has to be able to put on a suit and tie when needed.  A car must be the same. It must mesh practicality with style. If it can’t do its job, it doesn’t matter how stylish it looks, does it?   A two seater will not do me any good because of who I am. However, it may suit someone else.  I know my style. I know me. I won’t budge on certain issues and neither must my car. That being said, I think a car must be “cut” in just the right places. It doesn’t have  to have a six pack, but it must be able to bounce a few curbs off it.

Color

A car’s color can scream sex appeal. You must be able to take it on a date and home to Mama.  Color speaks volumes! In fact, it can even give you some insight into the driver’s personality. [Pat Bertram gives you the color breakdown on Squidoo.] Ultimately, you must ask yourself, “Does the color scream “Look its me!” or “Keep looking”?”

Trustworthiness

This one rates high on my sexy checklist. I need to make sure a car is trustworthy. Can I rely on the car in good times and bad? Can it handle what life throws at it: potholes, snowstorms, and sandy patches? If I can’t answer with an affirmative, than it fails the trustworthiness test.

Cleanliness

A clean car is a sexy car. A car can have all the above, but will fail the sexiness test if it doesn’t pass the Cleanliness test. I’m not just talking about having a clean exterior either. You want to know your rear is sitting where few have sat. You want to know what’s inside! Are their cans, candy wrappers or unmentionables tossed about? Do the seats have stains? Do I need to wear a nose filter to sit inside? If so, it fails the Cleanliness test and can’t be deemed sexy. A car can have personality but it must not have trash, extreme dust and/or unmentionables strewn about. PERIOD.

What do you think? Did I miss anything?  Let us know in a comment!

I love white handbags. They scream summer to me! Yet as much as I love them, I know they get dirty and show wear and tear much faster than other colors; as a result, I refuse to pay more than $20 for any white handbag.  

Below are two inexpensive white handbags I found online. Even better, Payless is having a BOGO sale so both bags cost $17.50! 

What do you think? Chic or Cheap?

Payless American Eagle Missy Flower Shopper ($12.99)

Payless Minicci Rachael Ruffle Wristlet ($8.99) 

I’m a shoeholic. I love all shoes, stilettos, pumps, kitten heels, flats, sneakers, chancletas/slippers, you name them I love them!

So when I attended the People in Espanol 50 Mas Bellos/Most Beautiful event, I couldn’t help but focus on the shoes. Below are two that I thought were noteworthy.

Aren’t they Lationalicious?!

This week I am attending a Dodge Ride and Drive event in New York. I am super excited to test out their cars, especially since my someone hit my parked car. It looks like a wreck but thankfully, the person who hit the car left a note with her cell phone number (See there are good people in this world!)

Now onto my nails…

Seeing how I will be test driving a few cars and staring at my nails at all the red lights, I wanted to get a funky color for my nails.

I choose a purple color called OPI- Catherine the Grape, because they are treating me like royalty and putting me in the swanky Husdon Hotel for a few days!

And here are my nails as I run to the hotel!

What are you wearing on your nails?

Disclosure: My time, travel and accommodations for the event have been compensated by Chrysler Corp. for our participation in the Dodge Ride & Drive. This in no way will impede my honest opinion regarding the event and their cars.

Are you ready for the warm weather? Looking to purchase some chic and trendy clothes? Than I have a coupon just for you!

Starting Sunday 5/8, get 30% off your entire Banana Republic purchase online. Below is the information needed to get this Latinalicious deal! 

• Start Date: 05/08/2011 12:00 AM ET
• End Date: 05/09/2011 11:59 PM ET

To get this sweet deal, click HERE to get 30% off your entire purchase with coupon code BRSAVE30! Offer ends 5/9.

Restrictions: Offer valid on Banana Republic merchandise purchased online only from 5/8/2011 at 12:00 AM ET through 5/9/2011 at 11:59 AM ET. Offer not valid at Banana Republic or Banana Republic Factory Stores. Qualifying amount applies to merchandise only, not to Gift cards purchased, packaging, applicable taxes or shipping and handling charges. No adjustments on previous purchases. Not valid for cash or cash equivalent. Offer cannot be combined with Gap Inc. employee discount or any other offers or discounts. Not responsible for lost or stolen coupons. Promotion not valid on Timeless collection, Monogram Dresses, Men’s bags, and Chan Luu.

~Giveaway has ended~

I’m a huge Pantene fan! I love how it smells, how it protects my hair from breakage and how its moisturizes and maintains my highlights.

Recently I was given the opportunity to try the new Pantene Pro-V Medium -Thick Hair Solutions. I used the shampoo and conditioner in one, adding a Pantene color nourishing treatment right after. Because my hair is dyed AND has highlights I tend to give my hair weekly moisturizing treatments to maintain shine and color. Their treatment provides me with enough shine that even Steve Ward would be proud!

As someone prone to frizz, I wasn’t surprised to find out that medium-thick hair can contain up to two times morecells than fine hair, making it more rigid and capable of absorbing more moisture than fine hair, which can lead to frizz. Pantene Medium-Thick Hair Solutions uses special ingredients to fix frizz and give me what I want, managable, smooth, frizz-less, shiny hair!   

From Frizzy to Smooth, Dry to Moisturized, or Breakage to Strength, Medium-Thick Hair Solutions is designed to deliver beautiful results with their:

• four shampoo and conditioner systems
• six stylers
• three treatments

I’m excited to announce that Pantene wants to give one Latinalicious reader a gift basket full of Pantene products. The products, shown below, will help maintain your hair this summer con brillo y estilo/ with shine and style (Hmm is it me or does that sound better in Spanish?)

The winner’s basket will be tailored to their type of hair (Fine, Curly, Colored, or Med-Thick) and will include flip-flops too. Why? Because Pantene knows we need to shine from head to toe!

To enter for a chance to win this Latinalicious Pantene gift basket complete the mandatory entry below. Want more entries? Read on!

Good luck!/¡Suerte!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES: 

“Like” Pantene on Facebook  for real-time hair tips and coupon updates. Make sure you also tell them THANK YOU for @MsLatina of Latina on a Mission’s giveaway or in Spanish, Gracias por el sorteo en el blog de @MsLatina de Latina On a Mission.  Once completed, leave a comment below with the URL and your Facebook name.

EXTRA ENTRIES – LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY: 

1. Subscribe to my blog via email or feed, follow my blog publicly with Google Friends and/or “Like” Latina On a Mission’s Facebook page for one (1) entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! 

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet URL in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away!

 Enter to win a @Pantene gift basket valued at $65!   http://bit.ly/GW12d #Giveaway #MsLatina #hair

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 3 extra entries.

4. Leave a comment on another post for THREE (3) extra entries. Let me know you did so in the comments below

5. Share this post or another on Stumble Upon, Technorati, Digg, and/or Facebook.  Each post shared gives you 3 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

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Giveaway ends May 29, 2011 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US residents

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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 7 days to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise.

Winner’s will be announced on the Giveaway Winners page.

Latinas come in all hues. We are as diverse in our skin complexions, as we are in our dance moves.  Yet one thing remains the same, how Latinas’ respond to skin treatments.

Last week, I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Yager.  His spa, the YSPA located in Washington Heights, New York City, caters to Latinas; as a result, he is considered an expert in Latina skin.

Having quoted him before on Latina On a Mission, I knew Dr. Yager would give me some great pointers. Below are what he’s discovered since treating Latinas.

• Latinas are more susceptible to melasma. Melasma is a dark skin discoloration that appears on sun exposed areas. Avoid the sun or wear a sunscreen to prevent melasma.

• Latinas are more prone to hypertrophic keloid scars. As a result, we must be more careful in the treatment of skin injuries, even pimples so no picking or popping!

• Women with darker skin tones do not absorb enough Vitamin D from the sun; as a result a Vitamin D supplement should be taken to promote bone growth and prevent osteoporosis. Vitamin D also lowers the risk of colon cancer by 50%,  breast and ovarian cancer risks by 30% and lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

• Skin cancer can occur, even in darker skin complexions. Protect your skin from UV rays, avoid excessive sun, and most importantly wear a daily product with SPF of at least 25 year round.

• Before treating a mancha/dark spot, make sure you treat the cause of the dark spot. If its caused by acne, medicine or hormonal imbalance, treat the cause so that it does not come back again. Treating the symptom and not the cause may actually make it harder for a Doctor to prescribe the right treatment.

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Dr. Yager attended medical school at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and completed his residency at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. He is a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in Latina skin.  His spa, the YSPA, caters to the Latino community and offers the latest in face and body treatments.

Straight hair, long hair, wavy hair, short hair… you get the point, it comes in all lengths and styles. Its our crowning glory, radiant and beautifully appealing in all its differences.

Yet no matter what hue, length or style, we’ve all heard one or more of the below myths. Arm yourself Chicas! Learn the truth from Hallie Bowman, a successful hairstylist who’s styled Kristen Stewart, Keri Russell, Emmy Rossum, Isla Fisher, Liv Tyler and Lucy Liu!

• Dandruff
  I’ve heard it time and time again from well meaning amigas/friends: If you have dandruff, don’t wash your hair everyday. Its drying out your hair. Yada,yada, yada… Basta/stop, cover your ears! It’s UNTRUE!According to Ms. Bowman you can wash your hair everyday if you have dandruff. In fact, infrequent washing is a leading cause of dandruff.

• Coloring and Menstruation
  I started going to the salón during my teens. While there, the stylists  noted that women on their menstrual cycle could not color their hair. This statement was said to me time and time again over the years. Yet Ms. Bowman claimed this is a MYTH and very wrong. You can color your hair while on your cycle without it affecting the process.

• Waxing 
  I’ve read online that waxing during your cycle will cause less pain. UNTRUE!  According to Ms. Bowman you should avoid waxing any hair during your menstrual cycle. Due to water retention, waxing during your cycle, can not only rip off skin, but cause more pain.

• Washing After Coloring
  I’ve always been told that I had to wait  one week after receiving a color treatment to wash my hair.  This is a MYTH! You can wash your hair after a color treatment; however, it is important to note that you should only use cold water and a coloring shampoo like Pantene Pro V .

• Eyebrows
  I love matching my eyebrow color to my hair color. I feel it makes it look more natural so I always ask the stylist add the same hair dye to my eyebrows. I now know this is illegal. Do not do this!  Its a dangerous practice that can cause blindness should the dye get in the your eyes. She suggests using men’s hair dye for your eyebrows. When choosing a color pick one that is slightly lighter than the color you want to get.

Ms. Hallie Bowman also noted that certain medications, like thyroid medications and some types of hormonal medications,  can affect the hair coloring process. Make sure you talk to your colorist and let them know what medication you are on before you begin any color process.

Do you know of any other hair myths? 

Let us know in a comment!

Disclosure: I was guilty of believing several of these myths. Thankfully, Pantene opened my eyes and gave me the opportunity to interview Hallie Bowman. Mil Gracias Pantene!

I took a few pictures of several NYC Teens to showcase their style. 

Maria, not her real name, is wearing a knitted scarf over a black blazer and cropped blue tee.  She also matched  her brown belt to her short brown boots. She completed the outfit by wearing socks outside the boots, taking pains to match the color of her scarf.

Sarah, not her real name, is wearing a hat that was featured in a previous Is it Chic OR just plain Cheap? post. To showcase the hat, she kept her outfit understated by wearing skinny jeans and a striped tee underneath a gray cardigan. Like Maria, she choose brown boots to complete the outfit.

What do you think? Let us know in a comment!

Escaping New York gave me Spring Fever! Staying in a hotel, enjoying the sun and the warm weather, has given me an urge to purge. Thankfully, being in California has also given me some amazing ideas.

From the hotel lobby, I gleaned I want color in my apartment. The more varied the better!

Lounging by the poolside, made me realize I need to clean my window sills to allow more natural light to stream in. I also decided rooms that don’t receive natural light will benefit from lamps. They can’t replace the sun, but they will definitely brighten my mood. Have no idea where and how to start cleaning? Apartment Guide has the basics all lined up for you!

The hotel room was an oasis, away from the daily hustle and bustle. This zen like feeling was accomplished with a few choice decorations. I especially loved the bamboo plant. I don’t have a green thumb, but thankfully Apartment Guide provides tips for arranging and caring for your blooms.

No matter where you live, you can add a few quick touches to update your space for the spring season.It shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. In fact, decluttering and cleaning can brighten up a room considerably Whether you live in a large or small space, sometimes the “stuff” around you can become overwhelming. Learn how to strategically attack the clutter by clicking HERE.

I plan to make a few of  these changes now that I’m back in New York but I’m wondering what YOU have planned? Are you redecorating? Are you relocating this Spring? What changes are you making? Let me know in a comment!

For tips and tricks, follow Apartment Guide on Facebook or Twitter.

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And now for my very long disclosure

Apartment Guide is owned by Consumer Source, Inc. Apartment Guide partnered with bloggers such as me to participate in its “Spring in Small Spaces” Blogger Challenge. As part of that program, I received compensation. They did not tell me what to purchase or what to say about the products used for the “Spring in Small Spaces” Blogger Challenge. Apartment Guide and Consumer Source believe that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. Consumer Source’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations.

After spending the past few days in 3 1/2 to 4 inch heels, my feet are screaming for relief! While searching for something stylish, I came across TOMS Shoes.

They are the newest trend and come in a variety of colors, including glitter for the inner child in you. TOMS will also give a pair of new shoes to a child in need, with every pair you purchase. One for One.

Would you wear them? Let us know in a comment!

As always, stay chic, stay fabulous, stay YOU!

Psst… don’t forget to enter my Shabby Apple Giveaway!

I love shoes. Demure flats, playful kitten heels, sexy stilettos, powerful running shoes, you name them, I love them!

So this week I decided to showcase a pair of shoes by famed Colombian fashion designer, Silvia Tcherassinew, a new designer at Payless ShoeSource.

Shocked? Don’t be! Payless has added some amazing designers to their Spring and Fall line. The below are set to hit the market in May. What do you think?

Psst… I’ll let you in on a secret. When wearing heels add insoles! Your feet will thank you.

Stay Chic! Stay Fabulous! Stay YOU!

From left to right: Tiffany, @SimplyBijoux, Kimberly, Ms. Latina, Joyee

Recently I was invited to an Levi’s event. The event would feature Levi’s Curve ID jeans, a Latinalicious™ jean that follows the curves of our bodies and does not try to flatten or rearrange our natural shape. The jeans available in 4 styles, Slight Curve for slender curvier women, Demi Curve for even proportions, Bold Curve to honor genuine curves and Supreme Curve jeans for the curviest woman. The jeans also come in various colors and cuts, like skinny, boot leg and straight leg.

Wanting to show the range of the jeans, I decided to take Joyee, with me. We not only varied in size but in body structure as well. Unlike me, Joyee has not had children and thus lacks the “Mommy pouch”.  She is tall, slender and curvacious with a tiny waist. I, on the otherhand, am shorter, thicker and hippier.  Our bodies couldn’t have been more different! Could Levi’s Curve ID jeans fit us both?  

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My review:

Normally when I purchase jeans, I try on tons before getting the right style, cut and fit. It’s extremly frustrating, especially when I have a child in tow! With the Levi’s Curve ID jeans, I was measured before making my selection. By measuring I was able to guage which style fit best. I was told the best fit was the Supreme Curve jeans; however, the Lexington Avenue store does not carry that style. As a result, I was given the Bold Curve to try on.

I was given 3 pairs of Bold Curve jeans, in varying colors (Dark blue, light blue and stone washed) and styles (boot cut, straight leg and skinny) I won’t embarrass myself  bore you with the details except to say I had the wrong size. The lovely salesperson thought I was skinner than I was and gave me a size smaller. Although I was touched by the fact that she thought I was skinny, I have to admit I was freaking out thinking I had gained weight! No matter how much hopping, pulling or sucking in I did, the jeans would not pass my luscious hips! I was red faced and sweating by the time I had the foresight to look at the size and was surprised to see a size I haven’t seen in over 2 years.

When I called the saleswoman over and explained, we had a chuckle over my large rear end. She brought over a larger size and it  fit perfectly!  It did not give me a muffin top, camel toe or flatten my derriere. It accentuated my curves, without making me look trashy. The jeans were definitely a keeper!

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Joyee’s review:

Before trying on a pair of jeans, I was measured. In order to work with my natural shape, they measured my waistline to my hips to obtain my size.  Measuring your natural waistline to your hips can determine the type of Curve you are. I discovered I was a Supreme Curve. They did not have them in stock at that store, but I was informed that the 42nd Street store had the Supreme Bold.

Tiffany, the saleswoman assisting me, explained how most women who fit  into Supreme Bold might also fit into the Bold. She was right. I did! Tiffany gave me two pairs of Bold jeans, one my size, the other a size bigger. It was recommended to always try on a bigger size, just in case the waistline fits a bit tight. She also noted that 80% of women surveyed and measured by Levi’s were able to fit into a Demi Curve.

When I went into the fitting room (which was quite fancy, I must say) to try on my jeans, the  bigger jeans fit perfectly. For once, I did not have to do my personal, jump-like-no-tomorrow dance in order to get into the jeans. It slipped on nicely and it hugged my waist without any gap. It was not too tight, yet not too loose. It was just right! I sat, walked, ran in place, jumped, did crazy moves that shall not be mentioned for the sake of my image, and the jeans held up. They were still comfortable. It passed my test with no problem! You can’t let go of a pair of jeans that passes the ‘jean tests’ that easily… or am I the only one who has these ‘jean tests’?

I would highly recommend women of all shapes and sizes  to go check out Levi’s Curve ID. If asked to be measured, please take the opportunity to do so!  They’re want to help you get the right type of jeans. They want to give you jeans that work with you and your own unique shape instead of having women squeeze themselves into a style thats runs against their shape.

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Could Levi’s Curve ID jeans fit us both?  

Joyee and I agree, Levi’s Curve ID passed the test! It fits BOTH our body types, without sacrificing our individual curves. As a result, we highly recommend these jeans for all shapes and sizes.  

Disclosure: Joyee and I were provided with Levi’s Curve ID jeans for our review; however, this in no way influenced our review.

This week I was browsing through the women’s dresses on the Shabby Apple website, when I discovered the below dress.

Called “Five to Nine”, it can be used for work and after. Its extremely versatile and can be customized based on the shoes and accesories worn. To get more information and to see more images click on the image below. Also, use code latinaonamission10off to get 10% off The Latest Dresses from Shabby Apple.

What do you think: Chic or just plain Cheap?

Share your thoughts in a comment!

Psst… make sure you enter my Shabby Apple Giveaway!

~Giveaway has ended~

I discovered Shabby Apple sometime ago while perusing fashion blogs.

Shabby Apple features beautifully designed vintage style women’s dresses, skirts, bathing suits,  jewelry and accessories. 

I also love that Shabby Apple focuses on helping women worldwide. Through the sales of their merchandise, they are able to do charitable work with women throughout Asia and Africa. Those charitable works help change the lives of needy women and children. Yes, I’m a sucker for fashion but even more so when I know my purchases will help another!

When Shabby Apple contacted me and offered me a dress I was ecstatic. I spent hours on their site looking over the Latinalicious dresses they were offering. I wanted one that screamed Spring and warm weather! It also had to be versatile. Something that could be worn at the office and after. Finally after many hours I decided.

Below is the Kanani. What do you think? Click on the image to view more photos.

After looking at more images, should you happen to find an item you wish to purchase use latinaonamission10off (case sensitive) to receive 10% off your Shabby Apple order!

I hope the Kanani made you swoon because one lucky reader will win it by following the rules below!

¡Suerte! / Good luck!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES: 

“Like” Shabby Apple’s Facebook page and tell them Latina On a Mission sent you!  Leave a comment below letting me know you did!

EXTRA ENTRIES – LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY: 

1. Subscribe to my blog, follow my blog publicly with Google Friends and/or “Like” my Facebook page for one (1) entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! 

 2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet URL in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away!

 Enter to #win a Shabby Apple dress! http://bit.ly/GW11b #Giveaway #MsLatina #Fashion

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 3 extra entries.

4. Leave a comment on any post for TWO (2) extra entries. Let me know which post  in a comment below.

5. Share this post or another on Stumble Upon, Technorati, Digg, and/or Facebook.  Each post shared gives you 3 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

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Giveaway ends April 15, 2011 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US residents

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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise.

Disclosure: I did not receive any compensation for said review but did it gladly!

I found this shirt on the metrostyle website. Its a black and white belted tunic that can be worn with jeans, straight legs, capris and even with a pair of black straight leg slacks!

It’s currently priced at $34.99 but if you use the 30% coupon below, you’ll pay only $24.50!

Would you wear it? Let us know in a comment!  

Psst… Take 30% off any item at metrostyle if you use code MSAFF032 at checkout, offer ends 03/31/11

As a Glammy Glambassador, I enjoy several perks including discounts at stores I already patronize. I can’t always share them but when I can I will post them here for all to benefit.

One Glamour Girls Perks I can share and that I’m sure you will love is a printable coupon for 40% off at the Gap! Click HERE to learn more. Note: Offer is valid on 1 regularly priced item at Gap stores in the U.S. & Canada. Coupon is valid until April 30th. Other rules apply so make sure you read the fine print.

Not sure what to get? I found these great pieces online that are also available in stores. Click on the links below to see details, additional photos and prices. And of course, don’t forget to use your 40% off when purchasing in store!

Flirty and fun:

Gap Tiered tulle dress

Wear it to the office than go straight to your date: 

Gap Impressionist print draped dress

The essential summer shirt:

Gap Pleated T

As always, don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Recently I was given the opportunity to attend a bareMinerals event in New York. I was down heartened! I had to travel and wouldn’t be able to hear about their new products. Thankfully Katrina, one of my ex-co-workers, was kind enough to attend the event in my stead. You can read all about her beauty-venture below…

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Sometime ago I had the honor of representing Ms. Latina at the bareMinerals Skincare Launch Event held at the wonderful Tzigan Lounge at Villa Pacri in downtown New York.  While this event was held on a chilly and very rainy afternoon, I forgot about the rain as I walked inside the lounge. Their atmosphere immediately warmed and relaxed me. I felt stress free! 

The cabin-like dimly lit room was decorated with lovely tea lights. The tables were set with fresh fruit, a variety of cheeses and finger foods, and the waiters greeted the patrons with an assortment of appetizers and desserts.  For those who wished to indulge, there was even an open bar.  Yet it all paled in comparison to the bareMinerals products!

A representative introduced the bareMinerals products and showed us a short video on how the beauty products were created.  Afterwards a shot glass filled with a mineral extract, a natural energy booster, was passed around for us to sample.  She explained the benefits of minerals for the body and what it does for the skin.

Ladies, the body needs minerals to survive and to perform at its optimum best, as it does not produce its own.  bareMinerals products are strictly mineral based and derives from virgin soil. It is extracted and made  into a liquid form and then made into a concentrated powder form.

This patent pending product contains an active soil complex which is anti-aging. It helps women to maintain beautiful, younger looking, radiant and less tired looking skin as they age. The results provided by said patent-pending RareMinerals ActiveSoil Complex are said to be 3x more powerful than blueberries, a natural anti-oxidant.  These products have gone through a rigorous safety and skin irritant testing on about 300-500 women and after 4 weeks,participants noticed an amazing improvement in their skin texture. bareMinerals contains no oil or animal by products.

They launched on Tuesday, March 2, 2011 and are available at Sephora’s, Macy’s, Ulta’s, Nordstrom’s, Bloomingdale’s, as well as, on-line at BAREESCENTUALS.com.

Disclosure: Katrina received a sampling of  bareMinerals products at the bareMinerals event. No other compensation was provided.

Be.

Free.

-adjective: unrestrained personally

And so was I. I was alive. I was unrestrained and unchained by my daily obligations as I ran, jumped and pranced about the studio. Surrounded by others, who like me, were wearing the FREE clothing line and FREE XT Footwear, I too was on fire, as I followed the moves outlined by Nike’s app, the Nike Training Club. At that moment, while exercising in my green FREE XT Footwear and Nike activewear, I felt as if I could conquer the world!

We jumped, squated and ran. We did sit-ups, and worked the weight balls. It was invigorating!

Encouraging us was  none other than Rihanna’s fitness trainer, Ary Nuñez. She is a dynamo! Using the Nike Training Club app she made sure we were on the ball! I have to admit, towards the end, I tried to sneak out a few times but she called me on it. She would not let me give up or walk out on my body. She knew my potential and she was going to ensure I reached it and I did!

The workout wear and sneakers allowed me to move without constraint. They flexed when I flexed. Moved when I moved. They didn’t cut or slide off.  They didn’t squeak, that intolerable chalkboard sound, when I ran and stopped. They moved, with me.

The clothing and sneakers worn during the session were created by Nike after witnessing Standford runners running barefoot, some of who are the fastest runners in the United States. Nike noted the differences and created the FREE XT line to simulate the feeling of running barefoot. In 2005, they released their new shoe. It mimiced what runners felt when they ran barefoot. They now have three (3) women’s sneakers that utilize this FREE technology: Nike FREE XT Quick Fit, Nike FREE XT Everyday Fit and Nike FREE TR Fit.

1. Nike FREE XT Quick Fit:    Out of the three FREE sneakers, the XT Quick Fit has the most cushioning. It is great for those wearers who are transitioning to barefoot FREE Technology. It is versatile and flexible enough for cross training.
2. Nike FREE XT Everyday:   The XT Everyday sneaker has nice flexibility with some type of cushioning. The Flywire arch wrap in this shoe gives women a nice snug supportive fit. It is good for avid walkers that also take classes at gyms.
3. Nike FREE TR Fit:   This shoe has the maximum freedom. It feels the closest to walking barefoot.  It has flex grooves on the midsole for barefoot like flexibility and a Phylite mid-sole that adds durability without the weight.

With quivering thighs and aching muscles, I left the class that day. I felt alive, each and every ache told me it was so. I also felt FREE. I no longer worried about how I looked (I hurt too much!), I didn’t care what others thought (My pain didn’t let me see!) but what I did notice was that I was vibrantly, whole-heartedly, wonderfully ALIVE!

I didn’t have to think. I didn’t have to worry. 

I only needed to BE.

I was FREE.

At least for that day…  the rest of the week, I was constrained to the sofa, too tired to move.

Click on the photo above to view images.

Disclosure: I was provided with Nike activewear and sneakers for the review. The pains and aches were solely my own.

Friday’s “Is it Chic OR just plain Cheap?” post is back, just in time for the warmer weather!

Can you believe Spring is just around the corner? That mean dresses, peep-toes, and sling backs are in order!  So for this week’s “Is it Chic OR just plain Cheap?” post we’re keeping our eyes peeled on the horizon waiting for the day when we can show off our chic-ness! 

Would YOU wear this machine washable Tee this Spring with a pair of jeans or mini skirt?  Share your thoughts! 

Happy Friday! Have a chic-filled day!

Psst … The top is a Piperlime exclusive available in white or lavender for $23.99. Want more info, click HERE.

I recently had an opportunity to attend a Latinalicious event at the very chichi and posh Beauty & Essex Lounge.

The Lounge’s entrance was hidden inside a “pawn” shop. Featuring guitars on the back wall and oddities in display cabinets, the dark shop gave no indication of the opulence held behind that door.

The door provided entrance into a world of extravagance, with chandeliers, dimmed lights and floor to ceiling mirrors, full of powerful men and women who oozed femininity and grace.  

Taking the stairs, I entered a private room. It  was even more richly decorated than the first.

The room served as the perfect backdrop for a luxurious hair product like Pantene and the unveiling of its hair survey. Steven Ward, the host of VH1’s “Tough Love” and CEO of Master Matchmakers, shared the results, as well as his expertise on attracting the opposite sex that evening to a select group of women.  

The Pantene results were met with one of two reactions, nods or gasps of surprise. Do you agree or disagree with the survey results?

• 74% of men indicated that they notice women because of their hair and 44% of men surveyed said that hair is the first thing they notice about a woman, more than her clothes (26%), legs (25%), or make-up (4%).

• Most men surveyed would be more likely to approach a woman at a bar with great hair than a woman wearing a low-cut shirt [This surprised me!]. 82% of men indicated that sexy hair is a key element to a woman’s overall sex appeal.

• 60% of men surveyed say they would rather date a woman with great hair than a woman with big breasts[Ummmm really?] and 78% of men surveyed consider healthy hair to be a turn-on.

After the survey results, we were regaled with dating anecdotes and Steven Ward’s private musings on men and women. Several had us agreeing wholeheartedly, while others had us up in arms. Below are 11 that I just had to share.

1. It takes 7 seconds for a man to fall in love.
2. If you bash one man, men take that as bashing all men.
3. Women tend to dress for women, instead of men.
4. Women admire make-up, clothing and jewelry. Men don’t look at these things.
5. Men are drawn to certain things, like hair, subconsciously.
6. Men like confident, fun, and approachable women.
7. Men LOVE when another man notices the woman they are with. Women, on the other hand, get jealous if another woman notices her date.
8. Women don’t like dating men who take longer than they do to get ready. If a woman is with such a man, its because he must be overcompensating in another department.
9. Men think the most unattractive hair is gray hair. According to Steven Ward, you should have your hair dyed immediately if it is!
10. Men want to believe you are uncomplicated and easy going. High maintenance women tend to scare men away.
11. Don’t pull a Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde on your man. Keep yourself maintained and don’t let yourself go.

Do you agree with Steven Ward’s 11 truths about men, women and dating?  

Disclosure: I received no compensation for providing the above recap. I shared these tidbits because Pantene’s results and Steven Ward’s musing were too juicy to keep to myself!

As a Clinique fan, I was super excited to find out that Fashion Designer Michelle Smithhas teamed up with Clinique to create a new Spring line full of the same flirty and chic color schemes that she incorporates into her clothing line. Michelle Smith established The Milly collection, a young, trendy collection in 2011 that has pops of color that the Latina in me loves to pieces!  Thankfully, she has added that same style to the Milly Clinique Collection.

On February 18, 2011, between 6-8pm, EST, you will have the opportunity to meet Michelle Smith, get fashion advise,  AND take home her Clinique spring beauty picks FREE with any $25 purchase at Bloomingdale’s on 59th Street in Manhattan, NY. The gift is valued at $75 and is limited to one per customer, while supplies last.

Hope to see you there!

Disclosure: As a Glammy Glambassador, I received this Latinalicious information. No compensation was given for posting. I did it because I ♥ my readers and thought you could enjoy the event as much as I will! Also, photo shown is not necessarily the one being given away at the event.

If you’ve been following my blog for awhile, you may recall when I advised my readers to apply to become a Glamour Glamassador and/or an Essence Ambassador. Of course, I couldn’t let the opportunity pass and also applied as well. I’m excited to say I was selected. I’m officially a Glammy Glambassador!

I have to tell you I am superexcited about this opportunity. As a mother of boys, I rarely get to do girly things but this will give me an excuse to get my rump out there and glam it up. What girl wouldn’t adore that?!

It also means that I will be able to:

• Test out new beauty products to give YOU the inside scoop about the hottest and trendiest products out there
• Find out and SHARE info on upcoming Glamour events
• Try out some of the most fashionable clothing and let you know which look best on curvy bodies
• Get insider info on freebies, giveaway and so much more!

So to get you as excited as I am, I wanted to let you know about an opportunity to get a one year subscription to Glamour magazine for FREE.

Click on the photo below for more details. When you respond, please let them know Ms. Latina of Latina On a Mission sent you, just hurry it ends on January 31, 2011.

¡Suerte! / Good Luck!

I’m an eclectic fashion “stylist”. I mix and match styles and brands, depending on my moods, the event I’m attending or who I’m with. Yet I have to admit I still have my faves.

JCrew is one of those stores. They have an eclectic mix featured in their general retail stores, online and in specialty boutiques found only in Manhattan. Their pieces are timeless.  They aren’t afraid to use color to make their pieces pop and best of all you rarely walk into a gathering and see someone else wearing the same outfit or piece.

Why do I mention these things?

Because JCrew is up for sale.

At this point they have four likely buyers, two of which are: Sears and Urban Outfitters.

I can’t imagine the collaboration with either store. Can you? Would you be more inclined to purchase a JCrew piece sold under the Sears or Urban Outfitters brand? Share your thoughts!

Can you believe in ten more days, we’ll be starting a New Year? Living in Times Square, its very hard for me to get away from this fact. Whenever I walk outside I see street vendors plying their 2011 hats, glasses, and noisemakers, which always makes me think about the most important thing … my New Year’s Outfit!

However, being Latinalicious doesn’t only mean that I look beautiful (Yes, I’m tooting my own horn LOL), it also means I’m frugal! Knowing this, I try to use accessories to make my outfits stand out. One of the quickest and cheapest ways to update an outfit is with jewelry and what better jewelery than a watch to help you count down the New Year?

Of course, not just any watch will do. It needs to be unique. It needs to have pazazz. It needs to stand out.  In sum, it must scream LATINALICOUS!

Chunky Bling offers Interchangeable Beaded Watches that stands out from others. Why? Because YOU design them.

You get to select the band and the face to create a one of a kind watch. With 60 different band styles and 70 face styles to choose from you won’t have to worry about finding someone with the same item on New Year’s Day or after.

I’m excited to say that one Latina On a Mission reader will win their very own Interchangeable Beaded Watch ($32 retail value) right here on Latina On a Mission.

FYI: We’re hoping to get the watch to the winner before the New Year (not guaranteed); as a result this giveaway will last only 5 days!

Read on for rules…

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES: 

Let me know in a comment which  band and face you would select if you won. Click here to view the various Chunky Bling watch bands and faces.  Click here to view the various Chunky Bling watch bands and faces. 

NOTE: You must be an e-mail subscriber to enter this giveaway. Click HERE to subscribe.

EXTRA ENTRIES – LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY: 

1. Follow my blog publicly with Google Friends and/or “Like” my Facebook page for one (1) entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! 

 2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away!  

Enter to win a one of a kind watch! Click to enter: http://bit.ly/LOAM48 #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina #fashion

3. Leave a comment on any non-giveaway post for TWO (2) extra entries. Leave the post title in your comment.

4.  Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 3 extra entries.

I first discovered Grubbie Style in the blogosphere. I loved the look of the shirts because of their uniqueness. Now that I’ve been given a chance to review one, I have to add durability as well!

As a mother of a 9 year old, I know how boys can destroy clothes.  My son can get down and dirty, breaking in his clothing (literally!) fairly quickly. For that reason, my main criteria is durability. My son’s, on the other hand, is stylishness. With Grubbie Style, we hit the jackpot! Its anything but grubby. It has a clean design that suits my son’s style. I, on the other hand,  like the American Apparel merchandise used to create the shirt.

Why?

Because American Apparel merchandise  is  manufactured in a “sweatshop-free” environment. They are also U.S.-made and according to the American Apparel site, support  immigrants’ rights! As someone who used to work in a Legal Firm that monitored sweat shop conditions and volunteered my services at a Immigration Legal Clinic, I applaud them for doing the right thing.

I commend Amy Hall, the Founder, for being so progressive! Not only did she pick a merchandiser that cares about the people it hires, she also understands the needs of Moms with sons, since she is a Mom of 2 active boys herself.   Amy takes into account a boy’s need to express their individuality, by allowing them to create a one of kind shirt,  created to YOUR specifications.

What does that mean? It means that, you get to:

1. Select the design
2. Choose the style of the shirt
3. Order and have it delivered to your mailbox

How HOT is that?!

So hot, my baby sizzles in his shirt!

Wouldn’t you agree?

To purchase your own Grubbie shirt AND receive 20% off,  click HERE and type latinaonamission at checkout.  

Disclosure: For review purposes, I received a Grubbie shirt for my son. This in no way influenced my review. I stand by my son’s HOTNESS!

With the holiday season less than a month away, I’m featuring products that I hope are not only Chic but also Cheap.

Today’s feature is a Swing Cardigan, the newest trend in the city. It’s versatile enough to dress up or down. Wear it with a pair of skinny jeans and ankle boots or with a fitted dress and heels, whichever way you go, you’ll be a show stopper!

At the $11.99, you can snatch up one for your mom, sister, best friend and even get a FEW different colors for yourself! To purchase go to metrostyle and enter Swing Cardigan in the Search box.

What do you think? Is it Chic AND Cheap?
Let us know in a comment!

Happy Friday! Have a chic-filled day!

As promised, with the holiday season fast approaching, I will be featuring products that I hope are not only Chic but also Cheap. 

This week’s feature is a technological find that’s perfect for those who crave great connectivity that doesn’t sacrifice their home’s style. 

The below charging station is cleverly disguised as a piece of grassy turf. This deco item will charge your electronics, camera, phone, mp3, iPod and more, while keeping cords hidden underneath the grassy top. Set it on a table, in a corner, or on a windowsill and no one will be the wiser. Now that’s turf-iffic! 

At $24.99, this charging station be the one unforgettable gift that won’t break your piggy bank!  To purchase go to www.ModCloth.com and enter Electric Garden Charging Station in the Search box. 

What do you think? Is it Chic AND Cheap?
Let us know in a comment! 

Happy Friday! Have a chic-filled day!

With the holiday season gearing up, I will be featuring products that I hope are not only Chic but also Cheap. Of course, I still want to hear your thoughts, so please let us know what you think about the product being showcased!

The Lace Up Boot available, in sizes 6-11 in brown or black.

The biker inspired boot costs $35 at Jimmy Jazz. To find out more or to purchase click on the link above.

What do you think? Are they Chic & Cheap?

Happy Friday! Have a chic-filled day!

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Carmex. All opinions are 100% mine.

Do you suffer from winter skin: dry, itchy skin that comes from the winter weather and low humidity? Sadly, I do.

I also have sensitive skin, which means I can’t just use any lotion that’s on sale. I need to use a lotion that is strong enough to combat the winter weather but soft enough for my sensitive skin. I found it in the Carmex Healing Lotion and Carmex Healing Cream.

Recently, I was given the opportunity to try the Carmex Healing Lotion and Carmex Healing Cream. The retail price for each product is $5.99, even cheaper than other name  brand lotions that are on sale at my local drugstore. I also like that its available at a variety of stores like Walgreens stores, walgreens.com and drugstore.com. Even better, drugstore.com normally sends out great coupons and specials to its email subscribers that you could use to purchase this lotion for even less!

Why did I mention price? Because oftentimes, we equate price with quality. However per *David Voron, MD, a dermatologist in Arcadia, Calif. “Inexpensive products work just as well as high-end ones. In fact, the extra price you pay for the expensive stuff is often just for packaging and marketing. What’s most important is how your skin responds to the product — and how you like its feel, not how much money you paid for it.”

With that said, I have to say my skin responded beautifully to the New Carmex Healing Lotion. It softened and healed my dry skin, without leaving any oily residue. I also loved how it made my feet and heels feel. They felt soft and smooth. I would definitely recommend this product if you are looking for a healing cream that does not break the bank!

Have you tried NEW Carmex® Healing Lotion and Carmex® Healing Cream? What do you think?

*See WebMD article, “10 Winter Skin Care Tips”, written by By Susan Davis.

This week’s fun featured Chic OR Cheap boots are manufactured by the makers of the highly sought Ugg boots.

Click here to find out more about the UGG Women’s Kensington Black Motorcycle Boots 5678

Let us know what you think in the comments: Is it Chic or just plain Cheap?

Happy Friday! Have a chic-filled day!

Today’s Chic OR Cheap feature is an easy jersey dressthat I discovered on the ESPRIT site.

The dress is is on sale for $39.99, however, if you use the coupon below it will come out to $18. 75! Thats a great price for a dress that can be dressed down or up!  (Can you tell I like it?!) I think it would look great with opaque  tights, leggings, or  if you’re taller than my 5 foot 1 inches, a pair of skinny jeans! I love it!

Click HERE and enter code YFAHUJJU at checkout.

What do YOU think? Is it Chic or just plain Cheap? Let us know in a comment!

Spa week is a bi-annual event held at some of the finest spas in North America for a fraction of the cost. The event allows you to enjoy full service service at just $50. Its a frugalista’s dream!

This week I would love to share a post by Alicia, a fellow New Yorker, who blogs at Mommy Delicious. Her experience with some of the services offered during this event is sure to have you running to make your own appointment!

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Living in NYC can definitely get expensive. That’s why I love, love, love deals and steals and anything half-off. My latest obsession: Spa Week!

As a New Yorker, full time graduate student, and single mother of a very rambunctious soon-to-be 3-year-old boy, life is very busy. I’m always on the go and there’s always something on my to-do list waiting, well, to get done. And sometimes I find myself asking the question, “When will I ever get a break?”

Enter Spa Week.

Spa Week is a way to bring the spa experience to the masses by offering full service treatments, which would normally range from $100 to $200, for JUST $50. A $50.00 massage and spa experience?! Sign me up! The main goal of Spa Week is to make the spa experience an affordable part of a healthy lifestyle routine.

To kick the week off, a Spa Week pre-event was held in NYC at The Prince George Ballroom in Gramercy on October 7th. Ms. Latina was invited to this invitation-only event, but because she is also super busy (and a super generous sweetheart!), she asked me to go in her place. This invitation totally made my week (my month!), and I gladly accepted. I’d be a fool not to. What busy mami doesn’t want a little pampering?

Once I arrived at The Prince George Ballroom, I scooped out all the fabulous vendors. There were tons and they were all offering a little pampering from manicures to massages to make-unders. Love!

Since I wanted to experience as many vendors as possible, I choose my pampering line-up wisely. First up: a manicure courtesy of Spa Chicks On-The-Go.

Spa Chicks On-The-Go is a full service spa event marketing company that delivers customized spa and beauty experiences for private, corporate, and media clients. The offer private spa parties and even fashion services for film and photo-shoots. They also offer Nail fraud. Nails fraud are nail-sized beauty stickers that come in an assortment of designs. They boast that you no longer have to spend hours and lots of money for your nails to look great. Nail Frauds are so easy to apply youʼll feel like you are cheating on your manicurist. I couldn’t help but jump on this trendy bandwagon at the Spa Week event! Its the newest “in” thing to hit the streets!

After my Spa Chicks On-The-Go experience, I received a back and shoulder massage from the awesome Deva Spa, which translates to “a heavenly realm of transformation” and they promise to customize your Deva “day-cation.” During my 15 minutes in massage heaven, my massage therapist was very attentive and asked me several times if the pressure was okay. Umm… yes! This NYC mommy needs all the massages she can get! Just imagine what it would be like to have an entire hour… I highly recommend.

Next up: a make-under courtesy of Bare Escentuals. The foundation and blush are extremely light-weight, and remained fresh-looking the entire night. Love that!

Lastly, it was time for an arm and hand massage from the Divas of Dove Deodorant. I’ve always used Dove deodorant so when they offered to illustrate the proper way for me to exfoliate and moisturize, I jumped at it. After my brief, but informative tutorial, I went back to heaven for another 15 minutes as I got my arm and hand massage. Man, my arms needed that — especially since I’ve been typing rather frequently (it’s midterms season, what can I say).

In addition to all of the precious pampering, attendees were given gift bags filled with goodies to take home. I couldn’t have asked for a better evening. In the words of Ms. Latina herself, I definitely had a wepa-licious time!

Now it’s your turn to receive some pampering and for a great price! For a list of spas participating in the Spa Week extravaganza, go to spaweek.com. Schedule your appointment soon. They fill up quickly because everyone wants in on this treat!
 

Today’s “Is it Chic OR just plain Cheap?” feature is a winter essential, the bootine. They come in a variety of styles, colors and fabrics. To find out more about today’s feature, click on the picture. 

What do you think of this bootine? Leave your thoughts in a comment!

Happy Friday! Have a chic-filled day!

Are you ready to join in the fun?! I hope so!

Today’s “Is it Chic OR just plain Cheap?” feature is a new fad that’s hitting the streets, the Spirit Hoods.

What do you think of this new fashion hood? Leave your thoughts in a comment!

Happy Friday! Have a chic-filled day!

With summer coming to an end, now is the perfect time to shop the sales. I found these BCBGirls Ariel Pumps on sale for only $44.99 on  Piperlime.

What do you think? Are they chic or just plain cheap?

Share your thoughts!
 

Its Friday! My favorite day of the week for one reason, our weekly chic or cheap post!

Click on the photo to view details.

I found the above heels at Payless during their BOGO sale, Buy One Get One 1/2 off sale, going on now. What do you think: Chic or Cheap? Let us know in the comments!

Happy Friday! Have a chic-filled day!

I am so excited about this Latinalicious deal because I have to purchase at least 5 pairs of slacks, dress shirts and ties for my little one.

I could also use a new pair of boots…

and a few pairs of jeans! My favorite is the Sweetheart jeans, they fit my curves well and are perfect with heels, boots and even sneakers! They come in bootcut, skinny and classic.

To get this Latinalicious discount just click HERE and enter SAVENOW at checkout (restrictions apply). Don’t forget you can take 30% off any Gap, Old Navy or Banana Republic purchase, online ONLY, when you make a purchase on August 31, 2010, between  12:00 AM ET and 11:59 PM ET. Valid in US and Puerto Rico.

Happy shopping and don’t forget to stash that ca$h!
 

98.7 Kiss FM is helping children in New York get ready for Back to School by providing FREE haircuts!

On Sunday, September 5, 2010, 98.7 Kiss FM will team up with Matrix Cuts to provide this Latinalicious freebie. The haircuts are available to children enrolled in elementary through High School.

While at the event you can sign up for the All Madden 2011 Football Tournament, to win the grand prize, a PS3!
Free food will also be provided all day.

Below I have noted the pertinant information:

• Date:
  Sunday, September 5, 2010

• Time:
  12-8PM

• Location:
  Matric Cuts
  314 W. 36th Street
  Between 8th and 9th Avenue
  New York, NY

Click HERE to go to the official page.

I’ve noticed a trend in New York City, socks with heels!

What do you think? Let me know your thoughts!  Is it Chic or just plain Cheap?

Levi’s is hosting a “Wear What Fits” event this Friday. The concept of the event is to bring one clothing item that does NOT fit you and exchange it for an item that DOES fit, a FREE pair of Levi’s® Curve ID jeans.

Items dropped off at the event will be donated to Goodwill. Recycling at its best!

Below I have noted the pertinent information.

********************

Time:

Friday · 10:00am – 4:00pm

Location:  

Bryant Park, NYC

W 41st Street & 6th Avenue

New York, NY

Note:

Admission is free and is first come first serve!

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Enjoy and don’t forget to ROCK THOSE JEANS!

The Gap has re-launched their Gap Black Pants.

To celebrate the re-launch, the Gap is giving away FREE Black pants at their “Black Magic Event”. The first 50 people in store on Saturday, August 14 will receive a pair. They will also have complimentary food and drinks at the event.

You can view the pants by clicking below. They’re perfect for dress up or dress down events by the way.

The offer is available at the following stores:

Don’t feel like getting up early? No worries! Click HERE to print out a 25% coupon.

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h! 

Thank you My Dallas Mommy for this Latinalicious deal!

I recently discovered JCPenney because of their Latinalicious sales. I also receive coupons via mail since I signed up for their newsletter. It helps me save money without relinquishing stye!

I found this blouse online. It’s currently on sale for $9.99 to $14.99, depending on size. However, if you receive JCPenney’s coupons by mail, you should have received a $10 off $10 purchase, making this one FREE! Interested? Click HERE to sign up for their mailings.

As always, let me know your thoughts!  Is it Chic or just plain Cheap?

Btw, it aso comes in a gray/white. You can get a closer view by clicking on the photo.

Sorry for the poor quality photo. I took the picture with my cellphone.

I wore these shoes during BlogHer. If the picture seems familiar, I tweeted a picture the night I wore them. I couldn’t contain myself, they were a Latinalicious steal for under $15 that I found at Burlington!

To see more photos taken last Thursday night, click HERE.

Happy WW!

I’ve worked with Perricone in the past and received great feedback. I’m excited to announce that I’m hosting another Perricone giveaway!  The winner will receive a full sized bottle of Cold Plasma, valued at $150, right here on Latina On a Mission. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this opportunity!

Cold Plasma is an anti-aging solution that works with all skin types, even sensitive skin. It uses a unique solution that enables your skin to draw from it what your individual skin needs to combat the 10 signs of aging, shown below.

1. Firmness
2. Elasticity
3. Clarity
4. Radiance
5. Smoothness
6. Texture
7. Redness
8. Blotchiness
9. Fine lines and wrinkles
10. Dryness

For those of you in NYC, you can visit the Perricone Flagship Store located at 791 Madison Avenue
(at East 67th Street), New York, NY 10021. You’ll be able to get a makeover, sample Cold Plasma, and obtain advice from Perricone professionals at their spa.  However, because I know not all of my readers reside in NYC, you can also order free samples of Cold Plasma.  You only have to pay shipping and handling, which is $4.95. 

Now onto the giveaway rules…

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Let me know in a comment why you want or need Cold Plasma!  NOTE: You must be an e-mail subscriber to enter. Click HERE to subscribe.

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Follow my blog with Google Friends and/or ”Like” my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know!

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment.  One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter to win Perricone MD’s Cold Plasma Skincare Solution, valued at $150  http://tiny.cc/GW34 (Ends 8/21) #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina #beauty

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 3 extra entries.

4. Leave a comment on a non-giveaway related post for 3 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each entry  in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

5. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 3 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

**********

GIVEAWAY ENDS August 21, 2010 at 3:00 P.M. EST

Open to US AND Canadian residents

Don’t want to wait? Buy Perricone Samples!

********** 

As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise. 

Disclosure: I did not receive any compensation to host said giveaway. 

I missed last week’s post because I didn’t find anything I thought was worthy of our weekly “Is it Chic or just plain Cheap?” post.

This week I discovered the Bandolino Randelle Sandal

Cast your vote in a comment: Chic or Cheap?

Psst, they’re on sale, less then $30, at Piperlime

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Ramblers Way. All opinions are 100% mine.

I have several wool sweaters that I received several years ago. They are hot, heavy and itchy – perfect for winter time when I wear undergarments. On those days that I -ahem- don’t, I hide them away in the back of the closet.

Recently I discovered Ramblers Way. It is a family owned business that grows their own wool on their sheep farms. It is entirely American made. They do not outsource which I love!  They also care about their sheep, allowing them to roam.

Their old world concepts and modern technology have paid off!  The ”WINDspun” technology that Ramblers Way garments undergo offers the smoothest, most luxurious wool yarn in the marketplace. The result is an ultra-light line of worsted wool garments warm that both keep you warm but which also breathe naturally, resulting in a year-round product that is chemical free AND fully washable.

I have to admit they are pricer then the wool garments you would find in the mall; however, Rambler’s Way garments do not have to be dry cleaned, can be worn year round and are classics. They will stand the test of time, which in the long run will save you money!

So for those of you who skipped through my post, I can sum it up with ONE sentence:

Rambler’s Way garments are made from soft, light weight wool, that can and will be worn year round, thereby saving you money in the long-run!

Bet you can’t say that about your Grandma’s hot, itchy, heavy wool!

The summer is here and you know what that means! Dancing, parties, cruises and of course touchable skin!

As a Latina, summer includes lots of salsa dancing. As a dancer with two left feet, it also means my dancing partner has to guide me so I won’t step on their toes, which means I BETTER have touchable skin to make up for all the toe stomping involved! One body wash which I use is Caress. I particularly love the Whipped Souffle Blackberry Cream and not because I received one for review either! It smells DI-VINE, leaves your skin looking radiant and and most importantly moisturizes. Heck, if I was a man and smelled me I would want to dance with me too, even if I was getting a stilleto stuck in my toe! 

Julianne Hough, “Dancing with the Stars” two-time champion  provides three invaluable tips for getting touchable skin. I noted them below.

1. Buff. To flaunt fab skin in the city, use a pumice stone to treat dry spots, like elbows and heels.
2. Hydrate. Boost your water intake – it will help you feel refreshed and vibrant all night long.
3. Indulge. Before you hit the town, maximize your shower and make skin flaunt-worthy with the new Caress Whipped Soufflés. These ultra-light, yet creamy body washes deliver both incredible fragrances and moisturization in one.

She also gives a few salsa dancing tips below. 

My tip: Have fun and shake what your Momma gave you!

Cast your vote: Chic or Cheap?

Leave us your thoughts and have a chic-filled day!

Click for more info: Etienne Aigner Adeland Tote Turqouise – Leather Handbags

Old Navy is having a Latinalicious sale! Right now you can save 30% off ALL items, even those on sale. You can get the 30% off in stores or online by using the code at the bottom of the post. Personally, I rather shop online to avoid the lines and temptation!

As a frugal shopper I look for items I can use year round. Several that I feel are worth stocking up on are:

1. Solid T-shirts or Tanks – These can be used throughout the year since they are extremely versatile. They can be used alone, layered or underneath shirts or sweaters. I also like that they can add a touch of splash to a suit without looking out of place at the office. [Sale Price: $2.80+]

2. Womens Wedge Flip-Flops- These may seem like a summer staple but they can be used year round! These are needed at the gym, when going to do a pedi and even at home. I prefer the wedge flip flop over the standard flip flops because they add height. They are slightly elevated off the floor with a 2″ wedge. The height protects your feet from dirt and germs, while also elevating that tush and making you appear leaner!  [Sale Price: $3.50]

3. Leggings – These are by far one of the best deals at Old Navy! I have worn the Old Navy Womens Black Jack Stretch Leggings under skirts, dresses, and jeans. They can also be used at the gym, to lounge around at home and even as pajamas! I love their leggings because they are chic AND cheap! They are also extremely durable, holding up even after being washed 15 times! This pick is a MUST in my eyes. [Sale Price: $7.50]

4. Accessories - I love  accessories! I find that they are the cheapest and fastest way to update an outfit. A belt can make a billowy shirt trendy while accentuating your figure. Dangle earrings can attract the viewers eyes to your face and a scarf can hide the dreaded hicky or worse GASP the lines on your neck! Because I go through accessories like water I tend to look for pieces that are trendy AND affordable. With the 30% sale going on right now at Old Navy I can stock up without breaking the bank. Psst, these make great gifts so plan ahead and get some for Christmas gifts! By the time Christmas comes along others will have forgotten that Old Navy had a sale and believe you spent more! [Sale Price varies per product]

5. Workwear:  In this section I include trousers, cardigans and dresses. I believe a lady needs at least one of each of these items in her closet. They are can be mixed and matched,  worn up or down and can be used year round if purchased in solid basic colors.  I also love that Old Navy creates clothes for real women! [Sale prices vary per item]

Do you think we should add anything else to the list? Let us know in a comment!

To get 30% off your oldnavy.compurchase enter ONBIG30 at checkout. Sale ends June 29, 2010 and excludes gift cards.

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Just in time for Father’s Day,  today’s chic or cheap feature is the Leather Island Men’s Embroidered Screen Print Belt.

Click on photo for more info.

Leave us your thoughts and have a chic-filled day!

Are you searching for a Father’s Day gift? If so, I have a few gift ideas from off-price retailers Marshalls and T.J. Maxx that are perfect for dad – no matter how hard he is to buy for:

For the “Techie” Dad:

If dad is always in search of the newest gadgets, why not pick up some great accessories to pair with them. Get some MP3 add-ons like speakers, headphones or a leather carrying case to make his music listening experience a special one. You can also grab some fun laptop and office supplies that can make work more enjoyable!

For the “Sports Enthusiast”:

For the sports fanatic in your life purchase some apparel from his favorite sports team, like a FIFA World Cup T-shirt, to he can showcase his pride. You can complete the package with a new pair of brand-name sneakers.

For The Gourmet Chef Fanatic:

With summer right around the corner help get him prepared with grilling tools and unique spices. A new recipe book and apron will guarantee a summer full of tasty treats. It also means that you’ll get a break from cooking!

For the “Beach Bum”:

If dad is happiest at the beach, help him update those faded swim trunks and worn out flip flops with brand new beach gear. Add in a beach towel and a pair of designer shades to complete the look.

All these items and more can be found at  Marshalls and T.J. Maxx, even better, with the money you save on Dad’s gift, you can pick something up for yourself!  

Click HERE for Marshalls locations.

Click HERE for T.J. Maxx locations. 

Disclosure: In order to put Marshalls and T.J. Maxx to the Chic & Cheap test, I was given a gift card. I’m delighted to say they passed with flying colors! Not only was I able to pick up a very chic gift, it was also very cheap – two important qualities for this Latinalicious Diva!

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Victorinox Swiss Army. All opinions are 100% mine.

I find men’s arms extremely sexy. They don’t necessarily have to be fit and bulked either. They can be any shape or size. Its just the fact that they have the ability to labor or to love. A watch accentuates this aspect of a man. It also lets the observer know what type of man the wearer is, whether they are playful, traditional, or grab life by the ahem balls. Watches give us clues about the wearer.

Take for instance the Swiss Army Chrono Classic below. Looking at the stainless steel case and bracelet, the luminous hands and hour markers, and the date calendar, I would guess that the man wearing this watch is a traditionalist. He is hard working, conscientious and stylish. He is a man a woman can depend on to be on time, to not forget anniversaries and to look fashionable by her side.

The Swiss Army Summit XLT Chrono below is a new watch in the Victorinox Swiss Army collection. Its sporty and trendsetting. Based on this and the fact that it has a synthetic strap, protected crown and that its water resistant to 100m, I would assume the wearer loves the outdoors. He is not scared to get into a few rough spots. He ‘s prepared for what life hands him and searches out danger with gusto. I think the man wearing this watch exudes sex appeal!

Sadly, it’s becoming less and less common for people, especially men, to wear wristwatches. People today are looking to their cell phones and laptops for the time. But these are disposable means of telling the time. They are not watches — fashion statements that offer us a glimpse into the man’s character and sometimes their intentions. Does your boyfriend or husband wear a watch? If not, what type of watch do you think best describes him in the Victorinox Swiss Army collection?  If I had to pick one to describe the man I am seeking, I would say the Alpnach Chrono: trendsetting, extremely rare and able to tango with this Hot Latina!

Psst check out the Facebook IWAW sweepstakes page. They are giving away a watch a day during the next 30 days! Good luck!

With the World Cup Final in full swing, I couldn’t resist using Roberto Cavallis designs for Shakira as our Chic and Cheap post. So tell me what do you think? Let me know!

Sketches of Roberto Cavalli's designs for Shakira.

I may be biased since I’m a Shakira fan but I say CHIC! Btw, feel free to click on the photo to read more about Roberto Cavallis and his designs for Shakira.

Some time ago I was invited to an E.L.F event but was unable to attend. Rosa of DancingHotdogs.com was able to go in my stead, below is her Latinalicious recap of E.L.F’s  tips and tricks!  

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Eyes Lips Face (E.L.F), known for their affordable luxury, held a Summer Beauty Boost Event at the American Laser Center. There were speakers on health, beauty and fashion. Here are some highlights of the tips that I learned!

Achelle Dunaway, Creative Director of E.L.F, gave us tips as to how to rejuvenate ourselves without having to go under the knife.  Not only are the prices great at E.L.F but their Natural Mineral Makeup is 100% all natural. If you buy the Beauty Boost Kit, 100% of the proceeds go to The Bottomless Closet, a nonprofit organization that gives women hope for a better future.

Below are a few of Achelle’s top ten trends & tips:

·        Bronzer: Using bronzer is the perfect makeup item to help transition you from Winter into Summer.  Create a great bronzed glow by dusting color on the hollows of your cheek, around the hairline, under the jaw, along the neck and the décolletage.

·        Matte red lips: Bright lips are all the rage.  Red is the perfect color for a night out!  Remember to keep the rest of your makeup natural and subtle as to not compete with the dramatic red lip.

·        Glitter Eyes: To enhance and open the eyes pick a glittery liquid eyeliner.

*Products mentioned can be bought online at Eyes Lips Face for a combined amount of $12 - a bargain!

The American Laser Center does laser hair removals,microdermabrasion, velashape and many more treatments that help you look young and vibrant.  However, keep in mind that you have to do your part to maintain it.  A good healthy diet and exercise is the only way you can achieve that.  Tanya Zuckerbrot, author of The F-Factor Diet, gave us tips as to what we need for a healthy diet.  Instead of taking away food and starving ourselves, she tells us to eat fiber.  In her book, she gives a meal plan of how to eat as well as recipes to include “fiber-rich foods”. 

Charles Peter, a personal massage therapist and body-worker, explained that the most important part of working out is letting your body rest afterwards.  If you work out 7 days a week, then your body is being pushed over the limit.  He suggests working out 3-5 times a week for about an hour. 

After getting tips on how to have great makeup, hair and body, Derek from DerekLovesShopping.com gave us 10 shopping tips and his favorite secret shopping spot:  Becan’s Closet. He claimed its the place to go for the best deals. Below are some of his shopping tips: 

·         June, July: Country cute is the new city fabulous!  Big skirts, daisy dukes and gingham make even Ma and Pa Kettle feel right at home in the big city.

·         Keep It Clean: Snow White is keeping it basic this year.  The white button down is not just for office anymore.

·         What’s Your Platform?  This spring you will be reaching new heights!!! The platforms have gotten so high you won’t need a step stool ‘til fall!!!

Overall I had a great time and met some great people, a quick shout out to Joey at PinkSith.com (it was nice meeting you!)  Thanks to Ms. Latina, I was able to go to the amazing event.  As you can tell, there was so much information! 

Follow me on twitter @RosaDancing

Disclosure: I was invited to go to the E.L.F event through Ms. Latina where they gave complimentary gifts to attendees.  All thoughts and opinions of products and services are my own .

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Thank you Rosa for a wonderful writeup! It sounds like it was an amazing event. I also love the fact that E.L.F donates 100% of the proceed from its Beauty Boost Kit to The Bottomless Closet. The Bottomless Closet is an amazing organization that helps disadvantaged New York City women become self-sufficient by providing business attire, interview preparation, professional development, financial management and more. Please take a moment and check them out.

Besos!

Are you ready to play “Is it Chic (stylish) or just plain Cheap (not stylish)”? I hope so, cause it’s Viernes/Friday!

Since Father’s Day is right around the corner, we’re featuring the FRYE Men’s Greene Low Sneaker. 

What do you think? Would the man in your life wear these? Leave us your thoughts and have a chic-filled day!

It’s that time again! Are you ready to play “Is it Chic (stylish) or just plain Cheap (not stylish)”? I hope so, cause it’s Fridayyyyyyyy!  

Click on photo for more info.

With Father’s Day around the corner, we’re featuring the Kenneth Cole New York Men’s KC1563 Digital Quartz Polyurethane Strap Watchin red.

Leave us your thoughts and have a chic-filled day!

It’s that time again! Are you ready to play“Is it Chic (stylish) or just plain Cheap (not stylish)”? I hope so, cause it’s Fridayyyyyyyy!  

Click on photo for more info.

I think these Betsey Johnson Women’s Caleb Sandals are CHIC because silver with a tan looks Latinalicious! What do you think?

Yesterday, I posted how Essence is looking for individuals to join the ESSENCE Insiders Panel featuring The Online Voice of African-American Women. To read more about that opportunity, click HERE.

Today, I discovered that Glamour is looking for Ambassadors to represent their brand in 2010. The Latinalicious few who are selected will receive insider perks, freebies, and invitations to some very exclusive events!

In order to considered, you must complete an online application. You must also submit three photos with your application. A video is optional, however, I suggest you create one to give a leg up.

If you get selected, make sure you come back and let us know!

Click HERE to apply or for info.

¡Suerte! / Good Luck!

Essence magazine is looking for a few African Americans to join their online panel, called ”ESSENCE Insiders “The Online Voice of African-American Women”. 

Selected Insiders will discuss various topics, ranging from fashion to lifestyle issues, in a secure online community. Insiders must be willing to give their honest opinions. In exchange, Essence will reward the Insiders with various perks, like  free products, ESSENCE-branded merchandise and discounts to the 2010 ESSENCE Music Festival.

To join or to get more information, click  HERE. If you get selected please let us know, so we can say we knew you way back when!

¡Suerte! / Good Luck!

Banana Republic is having a 30% sale! The sale starts at 5 PM EST and ends at 11:59 PM. It will give you  25% to 30% off all orders $100 or more at BananaRepublic.com.

If you have a Banana Republic card you can save even! Get 30% off all orders $100 or more at BananaRepublic.com when you use your BR, Gap, or Old Navy card. See below for additional details.

• Get 25% off all orders $100 or more at BananaRepublic.com. Enter BRSUMMER at checkout. Ends 5/18/10 at 11:59PM ET.

 

• Get 30% off all orders $100 or more at BananaRepublic.com when you use your BR, Gap or Old Navy credit card. Enter 30AFTER5 at checkout. Ends 5/18/10 at 11:59PM ET.

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

CoverGirl has some great lipgloss and lipstain colors coming out this summer. I’ve looked over their website and really love the ShineBlast Lipgloss in Smolder. According to their website, “Light reflecting shimmer layered under a high-gloss finish gives you 4x more noticeable shine. Plus, our breakthrough applicator, the ShineSculpt™, hugs the curves of your lips for a sculpted shimmer behind the shine.” While also looking over their reviews, I noticed customers also stated it smells great, which is a must in my book.

Although I wasn’t able to sample the glosses and stains, I am excited to be hosting a Lipstain/Lipgloss giveaway! One Latinalicious reader will win the following items:  

LIPS (Total Value $42.50) 

• 2 Wet Slicks Lipgloss: $4.99 (price per gloss)
• 2 Outlast Lipstain: $8.77 (price per lipstain)
• 2 ShineBlast Lipgloss: $7.49 (price per lipgloss)

Are you excited yet? I bet you are so go ahead complete the mandatory entry. Want more chances? Read on!

¡Suerte! / Good Luck!

Psst… Don’t miss out on my other TWO CoverGirl giveaways!

1. Click  HERE to enter to win CoverGirl Eye products. 
2. Click HERE to enter to CoverGirl Face products.

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MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Get color-matched for a CoverGirl lipgloss or lipstain then leave me a comment telling me your color!

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe to my blog via email for 2 extra entry. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Fan/Like my Facebook page for 2 extra entry, leaving a comment on the page. Click HERE to go to my page.

3. Follow my blog via Google Friend Connect for 1 extra entry. 

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win the latest CoverGirl lipgloss/lipstains  valued at $40+ http://tiny.cc/GW27 #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina #beauty #win

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 3 extra entries.

4. Add my giveaway to any blog giveaway linky. Leave the linky url in a comment. Each linky add-on gives you  3 extra entry!

5. Leave a comment on a non-giveaway related post for 5 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

6. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 5 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

7. Enter any other giveaway for 3 extra entries. Each additional giveaway entered gives you 3 extra entries.

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GIVEAWAY ENDS May 30, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US residents

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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise 

Disclosure:  I did not receive any CoverGirl Lip samples to review.

It’s Friday and we’re playing “Is it Chic (stylish) or just plain Cheap (not stylish)?”

The concept is simple, I post a picture and you let us know if you think its chic or cheap, so go ahead join in the fun and leave a comment!

I have to admit today’s pick is not so cheap, but its versatility makes it a piece that will be worn for many years to come; thereby, bringing the true cost to wear ratio down!

Click on the picture for more info.  Also, based on their Twitter account you can get an additional 20% off by entering POCKET20!

 Happy Friday!

I’ve always viewed my face as a canvas. In order to create a masterpiece (ME!), I know that my canvas, my face, has to be clean.

Covergirl’s Simply Ageless Primer allows me to create that clean look. It uses Olay Skincare ingredients to help restore your skin’s youthful appearance. The Clean foundation, appropriately named I may add, gives that truly clean look. To give me the perfect finish, I topped it off with the Clean pressed powder. This sets my face and takes away the oilyness I always seem to get on my T- zone.

I also have to note that the foundation and powder are available for sensitive skin. Since my skin is sensitive, this was  perfect for me. It did not cause me to break out in hives or acne. Overall, I was delighted with the facial products I sampled. They provided the flawless canvas that I need to start my day! I have to admit that I’m also swayed by their prices because who doesn’t want to be frugal nowadays!

Now onto the great news… one Latinalicious reader will win CoverGirl’s newest Face products, valued at $80+, right here on Latina On a Mission! The lucky winner will receive the following:

• 2 CLEAN Liquid Foundation: $5.99
• 2 CLEAN Powder Foundation: $5.99
• 1 Simply Ageless Concealer: $10.99
• 1 Simply Ageless Corrector: $10.99
• 1 Simply Ageless Blush: $10.99
• 1 Simply Ageless Foundation: $13.99

¡Suerte! / Good Luck!

Psst…I’ll be hosting a CoverGirl Lips giveaway later on this week. Stay tuned! You can also enter to win CoverGirl Eye products by clicking  HERE.

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MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Check out the latest CoverGirl  *FACE*  products than leave me a comment telling me which product made you go Wepa / Wow!

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe, follow my blog and/or fan my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win the latest CoverGirl face products, valued at $80+ http://tiny.cc/GW26 (Ends 5/27) #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina #beauty

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 5 extra entries.

4. Add my giveaway to any blog giveaway linky. Leave the linky url in a comment. Each linky add-on gives you  3 extra entry!

5. Leave a comment on a non-giveaway related post for 5 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

6. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 5 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

7. Enter any other giveaway for 3 extra entries. Each additional giveaway entered gives you 3 extra entries.

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GIVEAWAY ENDS May 27, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US residents

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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise 

Disclosure:  To provide an honest review, I received several Face samples. The products were provided as samples only and did not have a retail value.

As a young woman, I used CoverGirl all the time.  Their products helped me look chic but never cheap. I couldn’t have asked for more!

Although I haven’t used their products in some time, I was excited to be given the opportunity to try out several samples from their  new Eye, Face, Lips product lines. I was not surprised to find out that they are still as trendy as ever!

The Liquiline Blast eyeliner made my eyes look large and bright, while the CoverGirl Fusion Mascara made my lashes appear longer and fuller. I did not receive any samples of CoverGirl’s new Smoky ShadowBlast eyeshadow, but did get a chance to look at the product online. According to the website the “ShadowBlast stick make(s) it easy to create a bold, colorful, smoky eye”. Overall, I was pleased with the eye products received. I also loved the fact that their products allow you to create the latest looks without breaking the bank. Two very important qualities for this Latina!

I’m excited to say that one Latinalicious reader will win CoverGirl’s newest eye products, valued at almost $40, right here on Latina On a Mission! The lucky winner will receive the following:

• 2 Smoky ShadowBlast: $7.49 (retail price per shadow blast)
• 2 Liquid LineBlast Eyeliner: $7.99 (retail price per eyeliner)
• 1 Fusion Mascara: $8.99

¡Suerte! / Good Luck!

Psst…I’ll also be hosting a CoverGirl Face and Lips giveaway later on this week. Stay tuned!

********************

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Check out the latest CoverGirl Eye Products than leave me a comment telling me which product made you go Wepa / Wow!

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe, follow my blog and/or fan my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win the newest CoverGirl Eye Make-Up http://tiny.cc/GW25 (Ends 5/22) #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina #beauty

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 5 extra entries.

4. Add my giveaway to any blog giveaway linky. Leave the linky url in a comment. Each linky add-on gives you  3 extra entry!

5. Leave a comment on a non-giveaway related post for 5 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

6. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 5 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

7. Enter any other giveaway for 3 extra entries. Each additional giveaway entered gives you 3 extra entries.

**********

GIVEAWAY ENDS May 22, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US residents

********** 

As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise 

Disclosure:  To provide an honest review, I received several Eye samples. The products were provided as samples only and did not have a retail value.

It’s Friday and we’re playing “Is it Chic (stylish) or just plain Cheap (not stylish)?”

The concept is simple, I post a picture and you let us know if you think its chic or cheap (not stylish). So go ahead join in the fun and happy Friday!

Click on the picture for more info.

I love west elm! west elm (all lowercase) is a chic and trendy furniture store with an eclectic mix of contemporary decor to suit most styles. I also love that their items are multi-functional and suited for small spaces, like my apartment!

On Saturday, May 8, 2010, west elm is offering FREE design classes. The classes will be given during the first two hours of business at most stores. However, you should confirm with the store you are interested in as times vary per store. Attendees will also receive 10% off purchases made after class.

Leave me a comment and let me know if you plan on attending. I’m hoping to attend the class and would love to meet any readers who are going!

Recently I had the opportunity to try Bruno’s Salon and Spa. I know, I know you must be thinking all spas are alike right? WRONG!

I’ve frequented some big name spas, which will remain nameless, and realized bigger doesn’t always mean better. When using the services in these unnamed spas, I’ve called ahead to make appointments and waited with bated breath for the day of relaxation; however, I received anything but relaxation. I was rushed or worse made to feel as if I was not welcome in their spa. Those particular establishments did not provide the zen-like atmosphere or relaxation that one should expect at a spa. Now I’m not talking about music or dimmed lights, I’m talking about the personal touch, the human touch, that can sometimes get lost in larger locations, but was found in abundance at Bruno’s place.

Bruno Salon and Spa, located in Brooklyn, New York, appears smaller than it actually is from the outside. The first floor consists of a salon with hair washing stations and a make-up application area.  Downstairs is a spa area with several rooms for massages and facials, as well as a separate area with manicure and pedicure stations.  All of these would make the place shine on its own, but for me the icing on the cake were Bruno’s employees. They are pleasant and accommodating, working hard to ensure your satisfaction is met during your visit.

I received several services at the Bruno’s Salon and Spa. I noted below a brief explanation of each, along with my reaction.

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Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy

• Description: The Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy sessions are supposed to strengthen your immune system with 8-10 treatments. It works on your system by moving the lympatic fluid through your body with the Lymph Drainage XP™ machine.  The machine is supposed to use a blend of gases enclosed in a glass that “emit an energy field which penetrates the skin and stimulates the lymph nodea and lymph system. By doing so, it would give you more energy and prevent sicknesses, like colds, flu, sinus problems, slow metabolism and many other impairments.

 

• Reaction: I enjoyed the session, however, I was skeptical when the Certified Lymphatic Decongestive Therapist touted the many benefits of the machine. That skepticism caused me to disregard the therapist’s instructions to drink 6 glasses of water before the end of the day or suffer from flu-like symptoms the following day. I should have listened. By the next morning, I did have flu-like symptoms that lasted two days. Could it have been psychosomatic? I don’t think so.  In the end, I cannot confirm that the Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy sessions can do what they claim, since I did not receive the suggested 8-10 treatments, yet I can state emphatically that NOT following the Therapist’s instructions caused the stated adverse effects.   

Spa Mini Facial

• Description: The Spa Mini Facial is not as long as the other facials. It is approximately 1/2 hour. During that time, your face is placed under steam. The steam opens your pores allowing the technician to cleanse them of impurities. Your face is cleaner and brighter upon completion.

 

• Reaction: I loved the Spa Mini Facial! Normally, I have difficulties breathing under the steam because of my allergies but at Bruno’s Salon and Spa the technician took the time to angle the steam at an angle that did not cause discomfort. Eleni, the technician who attended me, was very attentive to my facial concerns, explained my skin type and provided tips to care for it.

Wash and Style

• Description:  The Wash and Style is self explanatory. A client’s hair is washed and than styled.

 

• Reaction: Crystal, who washed my hair, gave me a mini massage while doing so. She also took her time, washing and rinsing my hair more than once. She than directed me to Nicole, the hair stylist. Nicole was FABULOUS! I told her to style it as best she could, giving her free reign. She worked magic on my hair, giving it waves and volume where needed. The end result was Latinalicious! When I left the salon and the wind blew through my hair, I felt as if I was filming a hair commercial..c.stunningly sexy!

Gel Wrap Manicure 

• Description: The Gel Wrap Manicure is similar to silk wrapped nails. Gel Wrap Nails use a gel acrylic. After the gel application your nails are placed under a UV light to harden and dry.  

 

• Reaction:I have never seen my nails dry so quickly! As a busy single Mom, this is extremely important. I do not have the time or patience to sit under the nail dryer. For that reason, I tend to get a very light polish that will not show smudges or imperfections. With the Gel Wrap Manicure,  I was able to choose a color based on preference instead of practicality. Samantha, the manicurist, was wonderful! She helped me choose a color that was bubbly and bright and suited my bohemian style. She also applied the gel wrap quickly and efficiently, two very important qualities for busy women.  After she completed the Gel Wrap Manicure, she advised me on how to maintain the nail polish, as well as how to remove the polish (soaking them in nail polish remover and filing when needed). I have to admit, the nail polish was supposed to have lasted 2 weeks without chipping or peeling but mine did not.  I don’t think it could be blamed on the Manicurist or gel wrap. I did some very heavy cleaning during the week, using Clorox and several other harsh products without gloves, which made the gel wrap chip and peel off.

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Based on the services I received and the experience I had with the spa employees, I highly recommend Bruno’s Salon and Spa! Click HERE to view photos.

Have you had an eventful spa experience, good or bad? Please share!

You can find these and other treatments listed at Spaweek.com. You can also look for new spa deals in your city every month at www.spaweek.com/deals.

Disclosure: In order to review Bruno’s Salon and Spa, I was sent by Spa Week Daily to experience a day of wellness at Bruno; however, this in no way influenced the opinions expressed herein.

It’s been awhile since we’ve played “Is it Chic (stylish) or just plain Cheap (not stylish)?”, so here we go again!

The concept is simple, I post a picture and you let us know if you think its chic or cheap (not stylish). So go ahead join in the fun and happy Friday!

Pssst the Red Stitched Obi Belt is on sale for $19.99 at The Limited. Click on the picture to go to the store.

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, women everywhere are preparing their bodies for their big reveal. We pay closer attention to our bodies, noting parts that may have once been neglected, like our underarms, in our preparations.

Although the underarm area is small, its appearance can have a huge impact. Imagine raising your arm in class, reaching for a work file or even stretching while on the beach and GASP showing irritation and underarm bumps. It would destroy the image you have worked so hard to create!

As one of the largest organs in our body, our skin needs moisturize to stay healthy.  Moisture provides a barrier that protects our skin. This is especially true of the underarm, which loses up to 20% of it top layer each time we shave! As a result, the underarm area is much more prone to razor burn, bumps, nicks and/or scratches. However, there are ways to prevent this from happening.

While at the Dove Spa Event, I was able to speak with Dr. Debra Luftman. As a dermatologist, she has encountered and treated a variety of skin issues and has come up with a simple three step process to give us the perfect underarms. The at-home spa treatment called the PitiCure™ is the result of Dr. Luftman’s collaboration with Dove.

Step 1
Exfoliate the underarm area, using an exfoliating body wash or towelette. This step removes any impurities that can cause irritation, ingrown hairs or red bumps.

Step 2
Wait till the end of your shower to shave normally. By waiting till the end of your shower to shave you allow the steam to open up your pores, getting a closer shave. It also causes less irritation on the skin. 

Step 3
Pat your underarm area dry, than apply a deodorant, like Dove Ultimate, that not only provides odor and wet protection but moisturizes as well. Moisture is key to protecting the skin’s natural barrier, especially in an area like the underarm which loses up to 20% of its top layer during shaving.

In addition to the above steps, Dr. Luftman noted two other very important rules for great underarm skin. I have to admit, I was guilty of both!

• Do not leave razors in the shower. The shower is a breeding ground for bacteria, which leads to shaving irritation or infection.
• Replace razors every two weeks. Dull, dirty and rusty razors cause nicks, ingrown hairs and irritation.

After trying the simple Piticure steps, I feel better prepared to show off my underarms. As my Mommy always said, “Knowledge is power!”

Disclosure: In order to review the Piticure steps, I received a Dove Deodorant, towelettes and razor; however, they in no way influenced my assessment of Piticure.

I recently received an email from Glamour Magazine, letting me know that Olay Quench is giving away a FREE body lotion!

To help you “eradictae the ash” and show your sass, they are giving all the dry-skinned ladies out there (and you know who you are girl!) a rebate for a FREE bottle of Olay Quench.  

Below is the video outlining the details.

Click HERE to download the rebate form for a savings of almost $10! Prices vary per store. Offer valid for US residents only until 4/19/2010. Void in Maine. Must be post marked by 4/30/2010.

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

~GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED~

Its my ONE YEAR blogaversary and we are celebrating it in STYLE. We’re pulling out the heels, grabbing the little black dress and heading out with some girlfriends. Cause what’s a fiesta without the girls?!

Pure STYLE Girlfriends is the girlfriend you never knew you needed, until she comes into your life! Once known, its hard not to love her. She’s Latinalicious, with pure style!

She’s the girlfriend that always makes you look your best. No friendnemy here! This girlfriend has your back – literally! She’ll cover you, squeeze you, lift you, and even inflate you in places you didn’t even know needed inflating. Honestly, I never looked so good until I met her!

As a single Latina living in the city, I will admit at times it can feel daunting walking into a venue. I’ve never seen so many pinched, poked, stitched or fixed ladies in my life! Pure Style Girlfriends helped me walk into those venues with a bit more strut, a bit more sass and even a bit more class. I won’t tell you which products I used because hey a Lady never squeals, but suffice it to say I had an hourglass figure those evenings!

The basket above contained everything needed to make me shine without the pain of surgery. Now Pure STYLE Girlfriends wants to round off these seven (7) days of giveaways with a bang by giving one Latinalicious reader a Pure STYLE Girlfriends goody basket of their own body shaping garments, valued at $250!

The basket may contain any or all of the following items:

• Pick-me-Up
• Smooth ‘em (non-adhesive)
• Stay Put
• Girls Night Out
• Bump-a-Cup
• Holey Cup
• Gather-the-Girls
• Shape-a-Cup
• Bump-a-Booty

Are you ready to meet my new best friend: Pure STYLE Girlfriends?  Trust me you wouldn’t want to miss her!

To enter, you MUST be a subscriber, either via feed or via e-mail, before you can complete the mandatory entry! Any questions? Feel free to email me at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com.

¡Suerte! / Good luck!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Visit Pure STYLE Girlfriends than come back and tell me what product you like or want! 

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe, follow my blog and/or fan my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet URL in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win Pure Style Girlfriends Giftbasket of body shaping garments, valued @ $250 http://tiny.cc/GW24 #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina #fashion

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 5 extra entries.

4. Add my giveaway to any blog giveaway linky. Leave the linky url in a comment. Each linky add-on gives you  3 extra entry!

5. Leave a comment on a non-giveaway related post for 5 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

6. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 5 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

7. Enter any other giveaway for 3 extra entries. Each additional giveaway entered gives you 3 extra entries.

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GIVEAWAY ENDS April 21, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US residents

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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise!

Disclosure: In order to provide an honest review, I received the same product given. The view and opinions expressed herein are solely my own.

~GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED~

The countdown continues with a Perricone Skincare Giveaway!

I recently had the opportunity to review their newest skincare product, Cold Plasma. Cold Plasma is an anti-aging solution that works with all skin types, even sensitive skin! It uses a unique solution that enables your skin to draw from it what your individual skin needs to combat the 10 signs of aging, shown below.

1. Firmness
2. Elasticity
3. Clarity
4. Radiance
5. Smoothness
6. Texture
7. Redness
8. Blotchiness
9. Fine lines and wrinkles
10. Dryness

After using the product, my own skin felt and looked tighter, firmer and, yes,  younger, and this was without foundation!

I’m excited to say that one Latinalicious reader will have the opportunity to win their own full sized bottle of Cold Plasma, valued at $150 right here on Latina On a Mission! To enter, you MUST be a subscriber, either via feed or via e-mail, before you can complete the mandatory entry!Any questions? Feel free to email me at MsLatina (AT) latinaonamission.com.

¡Suerte! / Good luck!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Leave a comment letting me know WHY you need or want to win the Perricone MD Cold Plasma!

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe, follow my blog and/or fan my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win Perricone MD’s Cold Plasma Skincare Solution, valued at $150 http://tiny.cc/GW23 (Ends 4/14) #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 5 extra entries.

4. Add my giveaway to any blog giveaway linky. Leave the linky url in a comment. Each linky add-on gives you  3 extra entry!

5. Leave a comment on the Cold Plasma review post HERE  for 5 extra entries. Don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

6. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 5 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

7. Enter any other giveaway  for 3 extra entries. Each additional giveaway entered gives you 3 extra entries.

**********

GIVEAWAY ENDS April 14, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to U.S. and Canada only

********** 

As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise!

Disclosure: To provide an honest review, I received the same item being given.

As much as I hate to admit it, my skin is no longer the same radiant Latinalicious complexion I had was younger. The enlarged pores, uneven skin tone and sighhhhhhhh fine lines have started to emerge. I now see the laugh lines around my eyes and mouth much more prominently than I did a few years ago.  

I’ve read of several ways to prevent these lines from appearing, including not laughing or frowning, but who could live like that! As a Latina, I hate to perpetuate the sterotype but I do. I’m emotional. I wear my heart on my sleeve. My joy and disappointments are all evident in my facial expressions. In fact, I hate to admit it but my lips are pursed right now!

Knowing I will never be able to live an expressionless life, I was more than delighted when I received a full sized bottle of Perricone MD Cold Plasma. It has received numerous awards and recommendations from Marie Claire, Women’s Wear Daily, and Harper’s Bazaar.  Its also great for all types of skin types, including sensitive skin since it does not contain any artificial colors or fillers, fragrance, mineral oils, sulfates or parabens.  

After using the product, I have to say the recommendations were spot on! It made my pores look smaller and my skin look brighter.  It also helped combact the effects of stress and pollution that I face on a daily basis.  My skin no longer felt dull and dry. It felt tighter, firmer and, yes,  younger, and this was without foundation! The ultimate compliment was when one of the Dad’s in my son’s school thought I was his sister! Talk about an ego booster!

I have to say that the price tag on the product can seems a bit steep at first glance ($150) but it is well worth the price. Since using it I have not purchased the countless amount of beauty creams and products I normally purchase to try  to make my face look young and radiant because there is no need. Cold Plasma does make my face look younger and more radiant and who doesn’t want to look young and radiant?!  

So in response to the question, “Is Cold Plasma Therapy As Good As They Say?”

I have one word for you…

YES.

Psst I’m excited to say that one Latinalicious reader will have the opportunity to win one soon so stay tuned!

Disclosure: In order to provide an honest review, I received the product reviewed. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are mine.

Its the 3rd day of Latina On a Mission‘s countdown to April 1, 2010! So far, we’re giving away a day of family fun and a stylish accessory that will make you stand out from the crowd. Today’s giveaway is yet another winner! It features a chic and cheap beauty product that is sure to transform your morning and your mood.

Suave recently held a  Mango Mandarin Bliss Event in NYC.  At the event,  bloggers were given the opportunity to experience first hand the skin conditioning effects of the Suave Naturals® Mango Mandarin Body Wash. They were delightfully tweeting their pleasure on Twitter that evening using the #mangobliss hashtag.

After reading about Suave’s newest bodywash, I’m not surprised at their reactions. The body wash uses Vitamin E to moisturize dry skin as you wash. It also contains a mix of mango and mandarin extracts, creating a rich citrus and fruity aroma. The scented bliss is sure to make you feel my favorite R’s:  refreshed, revived and relaxed!    

Although I wasn’t able to attend this Latinalicious event, Suave has graciously offered to give one of my readers SIX (6) bottles of Suave Naturals® Mango Mandarin Body Wash to feel the same blissful Latinalicious spa effect felt by the bloggers who attended their event!

So are you ready to get your Suave on?!  Read on for giveaway rules.

¡Suerte/ Good Luck!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Visit the Suave site than come back and tell me what other product you like or want! 

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe, follow my blog and/or fan my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win 6 bottles of Suave Mango Mandarin Body Wash http://tiny.cc/GW21 (Ends 4/11) #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina #beauty 

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 5 extra entries.

4. Add my giveaway to any blog giveaway linky. Leave the linky url in a comment. Each linky add-on gives you  3 extra entry!

5. Leave a comment on a non-giveaway related post for 5 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

6. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 5 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

7. Enter any other giveaway for 3 extra entries. Each additional giveaway entered gives you 3 extra entries.

**********

GIVEAWAY ENDS April 11, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US residents

********** 

As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise!

Disclosure: I did not receive any compensation for this post.

*e.l.f., Eyes Lips Face, has an amazing deal going on right now! If you make a purchase of $20 or more from their online site you will receive a FREE movie ticket and restaurant.com gift card!

If you calculate the cost of a NYC adult movie ticket at $13 and a *Restaurant.com $25 Gift Certificate orders at their current sale priceof $3 for a $25 gift card, when you use code COOK thru 3/31/10, that comes up to a savings of at least $16 if not more!

To recieve this Latinalicious deal:  FREE Restaurant Gift Card & a FREE Movie Ticket With Any $20 Purchase at e.l.f. Use Code DINE. This deal makes a perfect Mother’s Day, Graduation and/or Birthday gift for a fraction of what you would normally pay!

 Happy Savings!  

*affiliate

Its the second day of Latina On a Mission‘s blogaversary countdown to April 1st.

With April right around the corner, I’m reminded of the saying, “April showers bring May flowers”. I’m hoping the saying will prove true so that I can show off my UrbanTrim Squidarella umbrella yet AGAIN!

Recently, I was given the opportunity to review the UrbanTrim Squidarella umbrella, a very chic and eye catching umbrella. I put it to great use during the past record rainfalls in my area and had some Latinalicious results!

Living near the water the umbrella was put to the ultimate test. It was able to withstand the blustery New York City winds without breaking or bending. It also stood out on the city streets with its eye catching design. I loved the looks I received as I first opened my black and white Squidarella umbrella, especially once the raindrops revealed “rain drop shaped pockets of color”.

As a woman, it reminds me of how I feel when I wear a black skirt suit to the office. Its trendy, stylish, and very polished. However, underneath is a bright sexy camisole, full of color and life. The stoic suit is all you see at first glance, yet under the right elements, the bright sexy camisole can be seen… that is the Squidarella! You’re first greeted by a simple black and white design, very trendy, stylish and polished on its own, however, the eye-popping color changing elements give you an umbrella that is like no other, making you stand out in a sea of black umbrellas.

Below is a short video showing the color changing umbrella in action.

I’m sure after viewing the video you can agree with Time Out New York when it called the Squidarella umbrella “…a wearable piece of art.” You can purchase this ultimate chic and fashionable accessory by clicking HERE.

UrbanTrim would also like to give one (1) Latinalicious reader their own Squidarella umbrella right here on Latina On a Mission! You can enter to win by completing the mandatory entry below. Want more chances to win? Read on!

¡Suerte/ Good Luck!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

After viewing the video, let me know what other designs you would like to see on their umbrellas or what other products you would like to see with the same color changing ink! Personally, I would love to see rainboots using the same color changing ink! 

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe, follow my blog, follow me on Twitter and/or fan my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Follow UrbanTrim on Twitter and/or Fan UrbanTrim on Facebook for 1 entry EACH. Let me know you did in a comment below, making sure to leave your Twitter and/or FB name. 

3. Subscribe to their newsletter for 5 extra entries. Click HERE to subscribe. Let me know you did in a comment below, making sure to leave the email address used for the subscription.

4. Tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win a chic stylish UrbanTrim Squidarella umbrella http://tiny.cc/GW20 (Ends 4/10 ) #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina #fashion

5. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the URL for 5 extra entries.

6. Leave a comment on any non-giveaway related post for 5 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

7. Enter any other giveaway that expires for 3 extra entries. Each additional giveaway entered gives you 3 extra entries.

**********

GIVEAWAY ENDS April 10, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US and Canadian Residents

********** 

As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise!

Disclosure: In order to provide an honest review, I received an UrbanTrim Squidarella Umbrella. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are mine.

Recently I was invited to the Suave Mango Bliss Event in NYC; however, due to family obligations I was unable to attend. Thankfully my Latinalicious amiga/ friend, Raquel, was able to go in my stead.

Raquel and I  met over Twitter and became fast friends via a new group I started called Better than Skinny. You may have seen the group’s hashtag #FitnCurvy on Twitter. Our group is filled with dynamic women who are on a journey to become fit, healthy and better than skinny! We’re real women, with curves, of all shapes and sizes, helping one another on our journey.  

Raquel and I bounded even further when we discovered our love of Christ. She’s been a huge inspiration in my life because of her caring spirit and because she is preparing for a marathon! She is definitely one “Latina On a Mission”!  Knowing this, I knew that she would enjoy the Suave Mango Bliss Event. Their products have never failed my body, or wallet, and are comparable to much more expensive brands.  So without further ado,  below is her Latinalicious recap!

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The Suave Mango Bliss Event, held at the Mandarin Hotel in New York City, was simply … blissful. It accomplished its goal to bring comfort, relaxation, and bliss.

This event introduced me to a new Suave fragrance, Mango Manderin, and its as sweet as its name. As I walked into the room/bar, the venue for the evening, I was greeted with smiles. I wanted to make myself comfortable and boy did I!  The ambiance in the room was warm and relaxing, with hues of yellow, orange, and brown. The deep and super comfortable suede chairs were a delight.  Later,  I moved around the room, as I sipped my sparkling wine, mingling, laughing, and enjoying the Suave spa experience.

While at the event I met, Divina of The Dancing Hotdogs, Lisa‘s sister, @thisthatbeauty, and Tayelor Kennedy of Absolute Style and Beauty. We enjoyed talking about Suave and its delectable new fragrance and their scrumptious appetizers. We had mushroom mini rolls, lobster with mango salsa, chicken on skewers, mini salmon cakes, and samosas. {I know I have you drooling right now umm hmm.. lol} If you think the appetizers were, well appetizing, imagine the candy bar! Suave’s candy bar at the Mango Bliss Event was full of chocolate covered goodness along with dried mango and sinful jelly and tarty fruit candies.

Before the night ended, I walked over to the back where the hand massages were taking place and was greeted by an awesome hand massager named Angela. Angela asked me if I knew of the Suave Intensive Repair hand lotion. Suave is a brand I use often. I usually purchase the shampoo and conditioner when I can grab them on sale but had never tried the hand lotion. I have really dry skin on my hands and never buy anything other than the other, more expensive lotions. However, tonight I learned that Suave is a high quality product and it satisfies. The body wash was used to wash my hands before the massage and it left my skin smooth and refreshed. Yes, I gave in and I don’t regret it! My hands felt great! They felt as though their thirst was quenched. I left the event a relaxed, softer, sweet scented, and most importantly- a happy camper…

Raquel can be found on Twitter at @RachlWhite
 

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After reading Raquel’s review and seeing her pictures, I’m sure you wish you could have attended. I know I do! Thankfully, Suave has agreed to give 2 Latinalicious readers several bottles via a giveaway. The giveaway will be a part of my blogaversary so stay tuned! Till than, you can find their new Mango Manderin line at most retailers.

In order to discover who the eShakti woman represents, eShakti, an amazing online women’s boutique, is holding a Latinalicious contest for women in the US.

The contest seeks to describe the eShakti woman and her attributes. Is she a woman of style and distinction or sexy and flirty? Does she get better with age like fine wine, as I do (wink, wink) or is she in her prime? Is she a working mother, a student, a stay at home Mom, or all of these? There are no wrong answers but some answers will net some fabulous prizes! Best, there is no purchase needed to enter!

Click HERE to enter, just hurry! It ends on March 31, 2010.

One lucky winner will win $250, while 25 others will win $50 each. Additionally, everyone who enters receives a $10 eShakti gift certificate to use on a future purchase!

 ¡Suerte! / Good Luck!

Yesterday, I received an e-mail from Pink Nation. It looks like they are celebrating the one million mark and are sending members a coupon to receive a FREE Pink Nation Tee.

The coupon is valid for one time use BUT each recipient can forward the e-mail to five others! So if you are not a member and have not received this Latinalicious deal, I’ll forward the email to the first 5 to leave me their e-mails in a comment!

So hurry, get to clicking!

I love Clinton Kelly’s fashion sense! He’s worked in the fashion industry for several years and currently is a co-host on “What Not To Wear”. On that program, he works with his co-host, Stacy London, to show women how to dress fashionably with the bodies and lifestyles they have.

If you haven’t already heard, Clinton Kelly has also teamed up with Macy’s to make-over one very lucky women. The winner will receive the following:

• A trip for 2 to New York City (Wooo Hooo you can visit me!)
• Head to Toe makeover by Clinton Kelly
• $5,000 Shopping Spree

In order to enter you must be over 18 years old and can be any size and shape. You may be asked to wear heels, wear a dress,as well as, cut and dye your hair. It will be a true transformation that will showcase your outer beauty.

To read the rules and apply to “Make Over America”, click HERE.

Let us know if you enter in a comment below! We’ll love to root for you!

I received this offer from The Limited and wanted to share it with my readers since I thought it was such a great deal!

You can get a FREE pant, including jeans, or skirt with the purchase of a regularly priced jacket. This Latinalicious deal is available online or in store until March 10, 2010.

Click HERE to grab this freebie!

To receive offers of your own, click HERE to subscribe.

Best, if you subscribe via e-mail you will receive an introductory offer for $15 off $50. So go ahead sign up and save, save, save!

Enjoy and happy shopping!

In January, I wrote about my search for a few good jeans (see post).  LaLicenciada left a comment with a few helpful tips that I just had to share with you!  

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Jeans are a crucial asset in any woman’s wardrobe! Buying jeans can be a defeating process – I’ll try on 10 different jeans my size only to find out some sizes run small, some too big, others have pocket placement that do not flatter, then I’m lucky to end up with one good pair. So here are some rules that I consider to be bible when I buy jeans:

1- I never buy online unless I’ve tried them on first. Trying on a pair of jeans that don’t fit can give your self esteem a kick, so its best to drag yourself to the store with the mindset that not all jeans are made the same, and your body is beautiful the way it is. Rather than buy one promising pair that lets you down that you have to return… or that you keep because you decide to mold your body to it “one day.”

2- Lycra, lycra, lycra – a little stretch is always a good thing. It lets the curves curve, and tucks what needs to be tucked. It’s a girl’s best friend.

3- Watch for Pockets – Pouty pockets in the back are good if you need more oomph in your tush. But if you are bootylicious avoid them. Also avoid tiny pockets in the front that may cause an unflattering look around the hips.

4- Distressed jeans – if you have bountiful thighs do not buy jeans that are distressed in the thigh area. They just highlight it, rather than create a uniform look.

5- Jeans are versatile – buy two of your favorite style…one to tailor and pair with flats, the other to pair with heels.

6- Must-have styles – wide leg (a sailor pant button is so cute); skinny (to dress up with heels or tuck in knee-high boots); classic boot cut (that can go from day to night).

7- A dark wash is ideal – they can be dressed up or down. But think out of the box – a good black jean is also a staple, as is a white jean* for the summer. (*white jean beware – they must be thick enough that you do not see through them, have lining or be prepare to wear spanx). And if you’re feeling wild, go for some color!

8- Buy what fits! Whether its low rise or not, if its too tight its going to create a “muffin top,” or “chichos” and that isn’t pretty at all.

9- Zippers or buttons or both - whatever style you choose, there should be no over-stretching where the zipper or buttons meet the jean – if there is, and you see gaps or need pliers to close them up, then they’re too small for you. Remember – jeans are NOT corsets  [emphasis mine]. Putting them on should not be a joint effort.

10- Tailoring - If you find a perfect pair of jeans but there’s a huge gap on the top between your derriere and the small of your back, buy it and get it tailored. You cannot be punished for having a teeny weeny waist.

********************

Thank you Li for your suggestions! After reading your comment, I feel much more prepared in my hunt for a few good jeans and I’m sure the other readers do as well.

Click HERE to read more posts by Li.

I recently received the basket shown on the left. It contained Head & Shoulders Dry Scalp Care Shampoo and Conditioner, a Conair water resistant shower radio, a Turbine Twist hair towel, a hairbrush, an EarthTherapeutics Back Brush, a rubber duckie and a reusable basket. I loved it, especially since I’m a huge fan of Head & Shoulders!

While growing up  in Puerto Rico, I used mayonnaise to soothe my dry and itchy scalp. It was purported to leave your hair moisturized and shiny. Yet I always felt as though everyone could smell the mayonaise I had just used! Definitely not the smell a teen girl wanted to have in High School!

Thankfully, as I’ve grown I’ve realized that I can use other products on my hair to relieve a  dry and itchy scalp. Head & Shoulders is one of the products we use in my home. It takes away the caspa / dandruff and leaves my hair shiny. So now when I swing my hair from side to side, men can’t help but notice mi cabello / my hair and not because of any flaky dandruff either!

I’m excited to say that one Latinalicious reader will be able to put Head & Shoulders to the test by winning the same basket that I received! I’m sure after you receive it you’ll agree with “Head & Shoulders’ 7 Scalp and Hair Benefits”  (shown below).

• fights dryness
• calms itch
• relieves irritation
• reduces redness
• controls oiliness
• removes flakes
• leaves hair beautiful

Ready to have beautiful, shiny, flakeless hair? Read on!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Look over the Head & Shoulders videos found HERE  and tell me which hair myth you previously believed. I used to believe using mayonaise would help dryness but now know better! Note: You have the option of viewing the video in English or Spanish.

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe, follow my blog and/or fan my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win a Head & Shoulders Gift Basket http://tiny.cc/GW17  (Ends 3/5) #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 5 extra entries.

4. Add my giveaway to any blog giveaway linky. Leave the linky url in a comment. Each linky add-on gives you  2 extra entry!

5. Leave a comment on a non-giveaway related post for 5 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

6. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 5 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

7. Enter any other giveaway that expires AFTER 2/14/2010 for 3 extra entries. Each additional giveaway entered that expires AFTER 2/14/2010 gives you 3 extra entries.

**********

GIVEAWAY ENDS March  5, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US Residents

********** 

As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise!

Disclosure: I received the same product given. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are mine.

The Gap* is having a sale online. The sale is on regularly priced Women’s, Men’s and Maternity Gap merchandise purchased online only. The sale ends tomorrow on February 15, 2010.

Use code GAPLOVE to receive 15% off your purchase. The code cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts.

Click to go to Gap.com.

Also, Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy card holders receive 10% off EVERY Tuesday at said stores and Piperlime. This offer is valid through 1/31/10 and can be used online or in stores.

Happy Savings!

*affiliate

I recently posted about Bare Escentuals’ Love Matte Campaign, which allows you to “Rethink What Matters”.  If you haven’t joined the weekly campaign don’t despair, there is still time! Click HERE to go to the Rethink What Matters site.

I’ve also been notified that TWO (2) Latinalicious readers will be able to win bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation right here on Latina On a Mission.

With melanoma rates rising among women, the bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation provides you with everyday sun protection, while helping your skin look fresh and dewy.  Its a powder that works like a cream, allowing your skin to look picture perfect without drying your skin or showcasing fine lines. I also like bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation because it looks bare or natural, while evening out skin tone and covering  blemishes.

Christina Gamboa, a New York based Make Up Artist, summed it up best when she stated:

After reading the above, I’m sure you’re chomping at the bit to enter this giveaway! So go ahead complete the MANDATORY entry, as noted below. Don’t forget the EXTRA entries, they up your chances of winning this Latinalicious foundation!

¡Suerte! / Good Luck!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Tell me your color match, this is the color you will receive if you win!  Click HERE to get matched.

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe, follow my blog and/or fan my Facebook page for 1 entry EACH. If you’re already do, let me know! NOTE: Unvalidated e-mails will be disqualified.

2. Follow @MsLatina on Twitter and tweet about the giveaway, stating the below. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away! 

Enter 2 win bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation http://tiny.cc/GW15 (2 WINNERS) #GIVEAWAY #MsLatina #beauty

3. Blog about the giveaway, linking back to this post, and provide me with the url for 5 extra entries.

4. Add my giveaway to any blog giveaway linky. Leave the linky url in a comment. Each linky add-on gives you  2 extra entry!

5. Leave a comment on a non-giveaway related post for 5 extra entries. Note the post in your comment and don’t forget to enter each in a separate comment! Wouldn’t want you to miss an entry!

6. Share this post and/or another post you enjoyed using any ”Share and Enjoy” submission  (Example: Digg, Facebook, Technorati, MySpace, Stumble Upon, etc.).  Each post shared gives you 5 extra entries. Just let me know which post you shared and your username, if applicable!

7. Take the Rethink What Matters quiz. Click HERE to go to the Rethink What Matters site. After completing the quiz,  use the #rethinking and #MsLatina hashtags in your tweet to tell us what YOU think. Provide me with the tweet url in a comment. One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away

**********

GIVEAWAY ENDS February  28, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US  Residents

********** 

As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Also, don’t forget, in order for random.org to count all of your entries a separate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise!

Disclosure: I am receiving the same product given. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are mine.

Aveeno is giving away a full sized bottle of its Stress Relief Body Lotion! Simply click on the link below and enter your mailing address to receive your product by mail.

Note, by signing up to receive their full sized bottle you agree to receive promotional information from Aveeno, which may include coupons and discounts.

Click HERE to go to the offer page. If it returns an error notice, wait a few minutes and retry. Their server has been busy.

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Thanks to Becentsable for this Latinalicious freebie!

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Pexagon Technology. All opinions are 100% mine.

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, I discovered a chic and cheap gift for all those Apple and CrackBerryBlackBerry holders in our lives!  The personalized Apple & BlackBerry cases sell for five dollars ($5.00USD). The cases are available in a variety of colors and include FREE personalization and FREE SHIPPING too. Five bucks gets you your choice of case personalized and shipped!

The Apple cases come in resilient soft silicone rubber or plastic, while BlackBerry cases come in the silicone design for most popular models. The backside of the case can be engraved with BOTH a logo and two lines of text (Perfect for business and blog holders too!).  There are also no order minimums so you can order one case, engrave a logo, engrave your name and have it shipped for $5!

Cases are:

• Soft silicone or plastic exterior
• Wrap-on design
• No need to remove to use buttons or take pictures
• Engraving won’t chip or rub off

Cases can be purchased for the following phones:

• BlackBerry® Curve™ 8300
•  BlackBerry® Curve™ 8900
•  BlackBerry® Bold™ 9000
•  BlackBerry® Tour™ 9630
• iPhone 3G/3Gs
• iPod touch 2nd Generation

I personally plan on getting one with my blog logo, name and url so I can promote my blog whenever I talk! However, if you would like the case for Valentine’s Day, they offer fast 1-3 business day turnaround times.

Old Navy is having a Latinalicious sale online right now! I saw a slew of items under $5 and even a Lace Cami for $2!

With summer fast approaching and vacations on the way, these items are sure to be used so stock up now and save some cash! Just HURRY the prices are so low, that they’ll go rapido / fast! 

Click HERE to go to Old Navy and head on over to the Women’s Sale section. Happy Savings!

Bare Escentuals in keeping with its Love Matte Campaign, which by the way I love, has started a new program called Rethink What Matters.

The site allows women nationwide to shake up their foundation routine and sound off on topics that are more than just skin-deep – from going bare in public to discussing what freedom really feels like.

I decided to try out their new campaign myself and serve as your guinea pig (Oink! Oink!).

Here’s what I discovered:

• The campaign uses a quiz to hear your views. Its short & sweet, only 5 questions.
• Each week they offer a different quiz.
• This week’s quiz is called the “Rethink Your Environment”.
• You can forward it to 3 friends upon completion.
• Every week 500 women who complete the quiz will WIN bareMinerals goodies.
• At the end of March, one lucky “rethinker” will receive a trip of a lifetime to Paris, Costa Rica, Asia Italy or Turks and Caicos!

So go ahead, start rethinking! Click HERE to go to the Rethink What Matters site.

Want to try a FREE 10-day sample of bareMinerals MATTE SPF 15 Foundation and Brush?

Just head on over to any of the following: Bare Escentuals Boutiques, Sephora, Sephora inside JCPenney, ULTA, and select Nordstrom, Macy’s and spa locations. Limit one per customer. While supplies last. Click HERE to find a store near you.

Enjoy!

I think I’m on a blue streak! Can you blame me?! The zipper on these *Tatumm Platform Pumpfrom Steve Madden scream zip me on home!

Best of all they’re on sale at Amazon, so you can use your swagbucks!

Click HERE to read more about swagbucks.
*affiliate

The Limited has outdone themselves with this printable coupon!

Print out the below coupon to receive $15 off a $15 purchase. The coupon is valid until Feb. 3, 2010 and should allow you to get a sexy top, chic bottom, or trendy piece of jewlery for FREE! Perfect with Valentine’s Day just around the corner.

Click HERE for coupon.

Click HERE to locate a store near you.

Happy Shopping and don’t forget to stash that ca$h!

On January 29th, 2010, Purple Lab will host a Guinness World Record Speed Dating event at the W Hoboken!

The event is the brain storm of Karen, the Purple Lab Creatrix and Founder.It will be hosted by Master Matchmaker Steve Ward from VH-1’s  hit reality series Tough Love and CEO of Master Matchmakers and is open to single guys and girls ages 21-35.  There is an entrance fee but I’m delighted to say that a portion of it will benefit the charity Women In Need or “WIN”. WIN, a  a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, provides housing, help and hope to New York City women and their families who are homeless and disadvantaged.

Not only will your attendance help WIN, it could bring you face to face with “the One“ AND get you in the Guiness Book of World Records!  Karen wanting to give you every advantage is also giving the ladies swag that will include a sample of  Luvah™, a “chic compact (made for a date-sized evening bag) with a lip stain on one side and a pearly gloss on the other to add a 3-D effect”. Karen believes it will ” help you feel empowered and strong, think of it as a way to make you irresistible! It plumps without stinging It’s moisturizing and infused with the aromatherapy for sensuality. Each shade is named after the type of guy I – and I’m sure you – dated and they come with the story of my crazy experiences!”

If interested, you can register at www.purplelabnyc.com/speeddating

Just make sure you come back and let us know if you made a connection!

About a month ago, I was given the opportunity to review eShakti, an online clothing store that carries chic clothing in sizes 0-26. Even better, they allow you to customize their designs by altering the length of the sleeves, hem, and neckline to a style that most flatters your figure. You can also customize your size by entering your measurements!

As part of my review, I was able to pick one item from their site. I didn’t realize how hard it would be to pick out one item! They had so many Latinalicious items, it was hard to decide!  I was  finally able to narrow it down to four dresses. What do you think?

The first dress appealed to my bohemian side. The sleeves on this dress would cover up my chunky arms, while the flowing style is perfect for spring and summer heat. I also loved the rich burgundy spiral applique and overall color combination. Its bold enough to satisfy my style, while sensible enough to be worn to daytime functions.

The second dress I looked at was called a Colorblock bell sleeve wrap dress and was very bright and vibrant.  This dress was offered in a variety of color options. I liked the black/blue combo yet I have to admit the red/white combination also caught my eye!

The third is a simple and beautiful sky blue/deep cocoa dress! It is part of eShakti’s Spring 2010 Collection. Its so simple, its sexy!

The last item, I looked at was an elegant calf-skimming  dress.

I won’t tell you which one I selected since I’m planning on posting a picture of the dress when I receive it,  but you can leave your guess in a comment!

Click HERE to go to eShakti’s site.  If you make a purchase, please share your pictures on my Facebook Page! I would love to see it!

SUPER EXCITING UPDATE:

All new and first time customers receive $20 OFF $30, PLUS you can get an additional $15 off your purchase if you join their Facebook Page, by clicking HERE, expires 1/31. What does this mean for you? It means you can get the Colorblock bell sleeve wrap dress  (shown above) in royal blue/black (vs the black/royal blue shown above) for $4.95!!! Or you can use this promo to purchase jewelery, accessories, leggings, jackets or any overstock item!

Enjoy and happy shopping! I know I will

I recently saw this deal when I went shopping at CVS. To say I was super excited is an understatement, because as I wrote in my previous post I’m updating my wardrobe with a few new pairs of jeans. 

If you send in 5 tokens, found on specially marked boxes of Special K cereal, along with the following order form, click HERE, you will receive a $10 voucher good toward a purchase of jeans. Note, the offer is available while supplies last or until December 31, 2010.  Also one voucher is given per mailing address.

Best of all, if you are NOT shopping for a pair of jeans you can donate the $10 to United Way by choosing that option on the form!  What better way to help another, while also eating a healthy breakfast!

Note: It looks like this weeks Redplum newspaper inserts will include a $1 off 2 Kellogg’s Special K products coupon. Also if you go to Target they have a coupon for 50¢ off a box of Special K. Click HERE to download.

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that ca$h

With all the New Year’s sales going on, now is the best time to snag some Latinalicious shoes. I found the *FERGALICIOUS Women’s Rockout, on sale for $49.99 at Kohls! Can you imagine these with a pair of skinny jeans or a mini skirt and black legging, very CHIC! Click HERE to view.

*affiliate

Out with the old in with the new… JEANS!

This month I am tossing all my old, torn, faded jeans. I’m on a mission to find the perfect fit for these wide hips. Nothing that diminishes my curves and luscious frame will be accepted because I may be a Mom but I’m still a Mami!

That being said, what do you think are the most important features in a pair of jeans? I’m hoping you can take my poll and let me know! Mil gracias/ many thanks for your input, it will help me narrow down my search for the perfect chic jeans. Of course come back to check out my weekly pictures and input. I’ll let you know which brands I’ve tried, the prices and the real scoop on how they look on a short Latina chick!  I’ll also post a poll so you let me know what you think! I’ll wait to hear from you before buying any pair.

Although to be honest the below pair looks so chic and is so cheap, I may just jump in and buy them to start me off! What do you think?  Its on sale for $34, with an additional 20% off with coupon code PZSAVE20.

Click to see: *BIEN JEAN -  $27.20 with 20% Discount

Enter code PZSAVE20 at checkout discount

*affiliate

Banana Republic’s end of year sale has started! They currently have merchandise marked 40% off their regular prices. I actually had my eye on their Women: Classic wool-blend lady coat – Black for awhile now.  I’ve worn their coats before and love the fit, especially cause I have the cursed thick arms! Thankfully Banana Republic’s coats are cut roomier in the arms so I don’t feel like the incredible Hulk- ROAR!

I also like their Women’s Italian merino cable-knit shrug in Charcoal. Its versitle enough to be worn at the office, with a pair of jeans and even over a little black dress- Boho style!

Best of all, if you shop in stores and spend $75 you will receive TWO Fandango movie tickets for FREE! Valid until 12/20. Click HERE for more details.

 Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that ca$h!

Is it Chic or just plain Cheap? Let me know your thoughts!
Want a closer look? Click here: Not Rated Women’s Ruby*

Psst they’re on sale AND Famous Footwear is running a buy one get one half off promo!

*affiliate.

Legwarmers … are they only for kids?

Is it Chic or just plain Cheap? Let me know your thoughts!

Want a closer look?  Click here: Naughty Monkey Risky Business – Black multi

Psst its on sale!

Last night I went to the RedPlum event in NYC, where we learned about RedPlum’s coupons, saw 30 frugal finds under $30 and admired some wonderful table settings from Ikea. I’ll post more about their Latinalicious deals and finds later on this weekend but till then I would like to share with you pictures of Ikea’s chic & cheap place settings!  They are definitely frugal finds that do not skimp on style!

I actually won one of the below sets. Best of all, they let me pick the set I wanted. I won’t tell you which set I chose just yet. I rather hear which YOU think is Latinalicious! Let me know!

Set #1

Set #2

Also, you can’t see it in the pictures but each set included Christmas decorations that were strategically hung from a table stand. The stand can also be used to hang pictures, jewelry and so much more. Best of all, it only costs $3.99 at Ikea. You can see the stand by clicking on the following link:  KOTTE Decoration, stand.

Happy WW!

I purchased the above shirt, along with black legging and a pair of tights earlier today from Chadwicks. The total cost was $38.96; however, I found a coupon code that saved me $15 bringing my final cost to $23.96.

The coupon code CH15OFF will take $15 off any $15 purchase at Chadwicks!  The codes expires on Monday, November 23, 2009, so act quickly! Click HERE to go to their site. Note: S&H charges apply.

Now go ahead, shop guilt free, just don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Thank you My Goodcentsfor this Latinalicious deal!

Have you had a chance to check out Clarins? If not,  I am excited to give you the opportunity to try them out yourself with this coupon I received on Facebook! Read my previous post HERE to get more info on joining.

As a Facebook fan, I was offered a FREE 20 minute facial treatment. The offer also included, not one, but TWO skin care samples! With the holidays around the corner and travel high on most Mami’s lists, these samples are perfect! You can easily stash them in your purse. They also pass airline’s size requirements and can be used before departing the plane to give your face a quick pick me up!
 

Click HERE to print out your coupon. The offer is available while supplies.

So avansa/hurry, then sit back and enjoy

Crinkle Zip Tote

I am loving the purple color!

What do you think: Cheap or Chic?  

Christian Siriano for Payless Geneva Front Zip Boot

These boots from Payless are eligible for BOGO! What do you think?

Have you joined ideeli? Not sure what it is? Let me explain.

ideeli is a  member’s only shopping community that features specially priced fashion, accessories and  home and beauty products. The items are normally a season behind and very chic & cheap, about 80% off!    

ideeli membership is by invitation only and there is no fee to join. They also host weekly giveaways! This week’s giveaway begins on November 6th at 1:30pm EST. The giveaway will last for 7 hours, ending at 8:30pm EST. Just remember, only members can enter!

Interested in becoming a member? Click HERE to get your free invite!

After you join, you will receive a personal invite link that you can pass along to your friends. For every person, who signs up under your link you get an extra giveaway entry so make sure you pass your link on (I did via this post!).

Of course, don’t forget to sign on during the giveaway hours (1:30pm - 8:30pm EST) to get a chance to win the below bag! Suerte/Good luck!

Lipsticks, liners, eye-shadows, and a multitude of nail polishes surrounded me. The colors and hues entranced me. Could it be? Was it real? Or had I died and gone to a Chic and Cheap heaven? As I entered the e.l.f. event held at the Affinia Shelburne in New York City I had to pinch myself to make sure it was real! The event showcased the best of e.l.f.! I have to admit I hadn’t realized how much they had to offer. I oohed and ahhed at the display tables featuring all of the e.l.f. products.

I met the dapper Ted Rubin, the man who has shepherded e.l.f. into a new era, as well as some trend-setting bloggers like Katja Presnal, the Hostess of this #Muah event, StyleMom, Nicole D’Alonzo of Socolite, SelfishMom, Deal Seeking Mom, Prime Time Parenting and so many others!

We were pampered and made-up during the event by two make-up artists. I even got to try out some fake eyelashes a la Jennifer Lopez!   Also, the fabulous boots featured in the pictures were worn by the Fashionista StyleMom. I loved them so much I had to take a picture!

That evening I was taught tips on how to accentuate my eyes, with e.l.f.  eye-shadows and eyeliner.  The make-up artist who tended me, also a Latina, explained how specific make-up brushes can affect the outcome of any make-up application.  They were especially needed when mixing colors, as she did with my smoky eyes. I was overjoyed when I was then provided with the same brushes, pictured above, to use at home (could you tell?!). Although I haven’t mastered her technique, the brushes have allowed me to play with my look. I have to say I have gotten better and yes I am tooting my own horn! Toot! Toot!

Update: Since the event, I have learned that e.l.f. has some amazingly affordable make-up that is comparable and cheaper, then some of the pricier brands! One such deal will allow you to purchase Predesigned Kits at 25% off until November 30th (GREAT for Christmas presents!). Click HERE and use code PDKIT25 to take advantage of this deal!

I recently came across these leggings in Bloomingdale’s Book, under the Hot buys section.

The first set of leggings is from Bloomingdale’s, with a retail value of $118.

I found a similar set of leggings on Amazon. The second set has a retail value of $19.98. Note, I wasn’t able to capture the picture of the gold or black color leggings but you can view them on the site by clicking on the link under the picture.

Pink Rose Stretch Metallic Liquid Leggings

What do you think? Does it look Chic or just plain Cheap? Is this a fashion hot buy as Bloomingdale’s stated? Let’s hear your thoughts!

I love Payless for their chic and cheap footwear, handbags and yes accessories! They have great prices that I believe can’t be beat. Or at least that is what I thought until I saw the Oprah show and she gave all her viewers, which includes YOU and me,  a 50% off coupon to ANYTHING, including Designer collections, in the Payless Store!!! Now that’s a reason to scream “WEPA”!

The offer is only good in Payless stores in the United States, Canada, Guam and Saipan, and does not include Puerto Rico. The coupon is good until the close of business on Friday, October 30, 2009 so don’t delay! Christmas is almost here and I’m sure you can find some goodies to place under the tree at Payless!

Click HERE for coupon.

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that ca$h!

Ann Taylor and Marie Claire are joining forces to bring 150 lucky ladies a free copy of The Style Strategy: A Less-Is-More Approach to Staying Chic and Shopping Smart by Nina Garcia, a celebrated fashion director.

In her book, Nina Garcia discusses how to stay fashionably chic while on a budget, breaking down a women’s choices and closet by maximizing the styles and trends already owned by most women. This Latinalicious maven is sure to fatten your wallet and lighten your closet dilemmas with her ideas!

You can get a peek at the first few pages of the book by clicking HERE.

To get this freebie you must be one of the first 150 guests to arrive at the Ann Taylor, located at 645 Madison Avenue on Wednesday, October 28, 2009. The event begins at 6 pm and ends at 8 pm; however, I suggest you get their at least an hour earlier to secure your spot on line.

Also, if you purchase $125 or more of Ann Taylor products, you will be skipped to the front of the book signing line!

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Women: Snowflake hairclip – Crystalle

I have long hair. I love it but on those mornings when things just don’t seem to go just right I like to know I have a clip that won’t hamper my style. I like this one because I  think the crystals would make my dark hair pop!

What do you think? Is it chic or just plain cheap?

Earlier today I received an e-mail from Vogue Magazine and wanted to share the good news with you!

Vogue is currently looking for a few individuals to join their panel. The selected individuals will become “Vogue Insiders”. Insiders receive several perks and also have the opportunity to win several great prizes, like $2,000 of clothes and accessories, an item  from the coveted Vogue Index, and $150 worth of products from the Vogue beauty closet.

Insiders also have the opportunity to test products before they become available to the public, preview new fashion collections, and attend member only events.

To apply to become an insider, you must complete the application found HERE.

Suerte/Good luck and come back to let us know if you were selected!

aerie by American Eagle is at it again! Last month they were giving away a FREE pantie, this month they will be giving away a FREE mini eye make-up brush set and case that is perfect for your purse! This freebie retails at $9.50 without tax.

As before, you will have to join the FREE aerie A-list at aerie stores. After doing so you will be able to pick up your freebie by visiting the store any Thursday in October. Limit one per person, while supplies last.  

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Iridescent Button Bustier Vest

What do you think is the Vest Chic or just plain Cheap?

Psst they also had an All Over Sequin Bustier Vest that’s perfect for the holidays and under $35!

Would you wear this mainly white dress after Labor Day?  Would it be chic or just plain cheap?

This past weekend I purchased a ton of Fall clothing, including a pair of purple boots; however, I did not find any outerwear that drew my eye…at least until I went to Talbots!

Hmmm if my family gave me a $500 gift card for Talbots (I’m not hinting, well ok I am but just a little!) I know exactly what I would get to round off this season’s purchases. They have such a wide array of clothing, its hard not to find just a few things you like so I guarantee I won’t exceed my limit!

First I would get the below coat which retails for $349. I love it but can’t decide between purple, which matches my new purple boots, or black, which matches everything! Also, I honestly believe that a coat should be well made and versatile, as well as a fun fashion statement. Its the first thing others see, especially as the weather gets colder, as such it should be eye catching, like the one below.
    

I also love wearing dresses in the fall especially at work, with a nice pair of heels or boots. Nothing flashy but very feminine. Below are two dresses I found that work well with my style and office environment. The Crepe Jersey Shirred Boat-Neck Dress on the left hand side is machine washable and would save me money in the long run. The Merino wool pleated jewel-neck sweater dress on the other hand is dry clean but very fashionable and versatile. It can be used at work, on a date and even when hanging out with the girls. They both have a retail price of $149.00. Hmmm I can’t decide but am leaning towards the machine washable. What do you think?  

Although I’ve already reached my imaginary $500 gift card allotment I’m sure I could find a few more good pieces for work and play at Talbots! They have an amazing selection of pieces that are very chic and affordable. I am also drawn to them because they are cut for real woman, with a bit more room in the sleeves and hips.  I hate admitting it but nowadays I need that extra room

After seeing  Talbots selections, I can totally understand why the woman behind the red chair confessions video was addicted! To view the videos and so much more, click on Talbots  fun and exciting  new blog:  red chair confessions!

This past weekend I went on my Fall shopping spree! To save some dinero/money I used coupon inserts from my Glamour Magazine subscription, which I got for $1 last year! 

The magazine included the below coupons:

Kate Spade: 25% off any handbag purchase
Prevage: FREE Deluxe kit
Bare Escentuals: 20% off any purchase
Express: $25 off a $50 purchase OR $50 off a $150 purchase
Macys: Two FREE Calvin Klein panties with bra purchase
Ann Taylor: 25% off a $150 purchase
H&M: $25 off a $100 purchase

To get the above offers you would have to purchase the magazine; however, if you use just ONE coupon it more than pays for itself!

Also, you can go to their website by clicking HERE to print out other offers you may like. I actually printed several additional copies of the H&M deal (online its $15 off $100 not $25 as noted above)!

Psst I also received a coupon from VS PINK for FREE panties this weekend. To receive VSPink offers via mail, click HERE to subscribe. You can also print out a coupon for a FREE Beauty Travel Kit with $10 purchase while on the site!

Enjoy!

Women’s apparel: LA Made Marie Dress – Fig

I think this dress is CHIC! I may buy it for the Blogalicious convention just not sure which color: Fig or Anthracite. Hmmm I like both HELP! What do you think? Is it Chic or just plain Cheap?

I’m really feeling this Boho Blouse so I vote chic!

Psst it’s only $19.99 on Chadwicks.com

When seasons change, styles change which is the best time to catch the sales. Since I’m a frugal shopper I tend to go into shopping mode around these times.

One of the ways I update my look is with jewelry, especially costume jewelry. They make an old worn out outfit seem new in my eyes. Best of all the pieces can be worn with a variety of styles without losing their Latinalicious flair!

I found the pieces below in the Banana Republic – Jewelry Sale.

What do you think?

1.  Women: Puzzle bracelet – Silver

2. Women: Beaded flowerbed ring – Coral

3. Women: Sunray bead necklace – Orange

4.
Women: Oval links cuff – Gold

I can totally imagine using No. 2 & 3 above with a flowing sundress and a cardigan during the fall season or with a button down shirt, a pair of skinny jeans and my winter boots.

Ultimately, as long as I can justify the expense with more than one outfit or see myself using the pieces for several seasons to come its Latinalicious piece. If not, I pass on the sale. What about you? Do you shop on the splurge or do you need to justify the expense before purchasing?

Inquiring Nosy minds (me!) want to know!

Cast your vote! Do they look chic or just plain cheap?

Picture shown may not be the freebie offered in stores.

American Eagle is giving away a FREE Aerie panty, with a retail value of $7.50.  The free offer is available in stores after you become an A-list member.As an A-list member you will receive one free offer per month. During the month of September, you can go to any Aerie store  on THURSDAY to pick up your choice of either a boybrief panty or a thong.

Click HERE to go to the offer page and to find a store near you. This freebie is valid in the USA and Canada to residents who are 13 years or older.

Wait! Don’t click yet!

In addition to the FREE panty you can get 15% off your Aerie purchase by using the coupon below,  so go ahead get that matching bra ladies! Because we all know there is nothing more Latinalicious than matching bras and panties!  

Click HERE to print your 15% coupon. The coupon expires on September 19, 2009.

Happy Shopping and dont forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Clarins is launching a new Multi-Active Day Skin care range. The new Multi-Active will help women whose skin is prone to early aging due to her busy, active lifestyle and environmental stressors (sounds like me!).  To celebrate their new product line, and connect with women like us, Clarins has decided to jump on the Facebook and Twitter bandwagon! To start, this new social media space will feature a new short film called Une Femme Active AND giveaway 3 weeks supply of the new Multi Active Day skin care cream to the first 5,000 people to fan their pages!

Excited?! I am! Now hurry and click below to receive your free sample!

Click HERE for Clarins on Facebook.

Click HERE for Clarins on Twitter.

Click HERE to watch Clarins “Une Femme Active” on Facebook and listen to music by Brooklyn based band Au Revoir Simone.

Click HERE for the Official Clarins Website.

I recently had the opportunity to meet several tweeters/bloggers at the Huge Lips Skinny Hips Tweet-Up¹, courtesy of  Karen Robinovitz, the maker of the Latinalicious @PurpleLabNYC  Huge Lips Skinny Hips Lip Gloss.  

Just like the lip gloss, the tweet-up was extraordinary! It was held at Church Street Boxing and featured sumo fighting! Now I’m sure you’re wondering why would a beauty product tweet-up feature sumo fighting? I know I was!  Thankfully, they explained when we arrived.  In honor of “Love Your Thighs“, a Huge Lips Skinny Hips coral lip gloss and inspiration for this tweet-up, we were celebrating women’s thighs with some of the biggest thighs around … sumo fighters’ thighs! I thought it was an awesome idea.  Not only does the lipgloss pamper my lips, it was also making my beautifully full hips feel Latinalicious!

We had such a great time! We ate Crumbs cupcakes (DELISH!) and had FYXX caffeine infused water. We also learned more about the Skinny Hips Big Lips lipgloss. Its an innovative lipgloss infused with Hoodia Gordoni extract, an ingredient that helps suppress your appetite. It also helps plumps up your  lips without the sting. I may never have Angelina Jolie’s bembas (lips) but this gloss will help them look plumper, while also helping to suppress my appetitte! How hot is that?!

Below are just a few of the awesome ladies I met that day! This group definitely knew how to party and have a good time  but I shouldn’t have expected anything less of  Huge Lips Skinny Hips followers!

From left to right: @ThisThatBeauty, @TheIMakeupMaven, @candidcomments, @karenrobinovitz, Trainer ², @SharonPurpleLab, Intern², @andmaryanne, @felsull, @MsLatina, @fashionstbeauty

Tweet Up: When you arrange to meet with people you meet over twitter.

I could not recall the names of these individuals (sorry!), if you do please let me know and I will add it!

I found this top at a very trendy store for $48.  I won’t tell you whether I believe its cheap or chic until after everyone gets a chance to cast their votes but will say I think its wayyyyyyy over priced.  What do you think?  Is it chic or cheap?

Inquiring minds want to know – ok nosy but join in anyway

PZI Image

Have you ever thought about modeling but were worried you were not thin enough? Surprise! Full figured gals are in hot demand, especially because the average size for a woman in the United States is now a size 12.

PZI Jeans is looking for full figure women, with an “hourglass” figure, specifically “women who have fuller hips and rear with a contoured waist”.  They are looking for all ethnicities, 23 and older, who are at least 5 feet 5 inches tall.

I thought this was such a wonderful opportunity for women to celebrate AND embraze their full figures, while making some cash and perhaps starting a new career. If interested, click HERE to find out more about this opportunity.

Suerte/Good Luck!

Fall is almost here and that means the new Fall line is coming out!

Based on what I have been seeing in store displays, purple, the color of royalty, seems to be one of the new fall color. Definitely a pick me up color that does well with almost every other color (pink, black, brown, navy, grey, and patterns)! Thankfully I picked up a beautiful pair of purple heels, on sale, two years ago so I won’t have to purchase new shoes (but I’m tempted!). What about you, do you have anything purple?

Anywho, I’ve looked through Ann Taylor’s line and have to say they have a beautiful selection, as always I may add. I believe their clothes are timeless AND effortless, so I tend to buy myself several pieces from their store each year. I don’t spend much because I always buy items on sale or with coupons, as well as out of season. However, this year I may actually purchase more items in season because of the serious price drops!

Below are just a few of the items that I love  but I’m sure you can find more on your own!

Add to your savings by using the below 30% coupon in stores or on-line. Its valid on full priced items only and expires on August 31, 2009, which gives you plenty of time to budget one or two items into your Latinalicious wardrobe! Happy Shopping!

Click HERE for coupon.

Today I am featuring Jennifer Lopez. She was pictured in the August 17, 2009 New York Post wearing these black trendy boots. 

What do you think? Are they chic or just plan cheap?!

Leave a comment and weigh in!

Save the date for Fashion’s Night Out!

American Vogue, NYC & Company, the City of New York and the Council of Fashion Designers of America have all joined forces to bring you this Latinalicious event in New York City. The event will be held in a total of thirteen fashion capitals from around the world (shown below).

Click HERE to RSVP for the Lord & Taylor event.

I like good deals but I LOVE freebie especially this one!

Fekkai Shampoo retails for $23 on Amazon.com and Sephora but Fekkai is giving away a FREE full size bottle of Fekkai Advance Shampoo on Thursday, September 17, 2009.   

In order to get this freebie you need to bring a bottle of shampoo that you are currently using to a participating Saks Fifth Avenue store. It doesn’t say if the shampoo bottle has to be full or empty but you can always purchase a bottle of VO5 on sale for less than a dollar and trade that bottle in.

To find out more click HERE. 

As always, don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Back to school sales aren’t just for kids anymore, its also a great time to get some chic work and play wear because we deserve it too!  Below are several discounts and coupons I found hope you can use some or all of  them!   

• Ann Taylor – Buy one top, get one half off. Click HERE  You can also use 104013058 to receive 30% off any $150 full price order. Expires September 4, 2009
• bebe –  Online exclusives: Click HERE
• Carlos Santana Shoes- Get 10% off on Back to School purchases by entering code Enter BTSCARLOS09until 8/31/09. Click HERE
• Designer Handbags – Sample Sale Click HERE to join for free and get notice of all sales!
• Dots- $15 off $50 purchase. valid August 17- August 23, 2009: Click HERE to print
• Fergie Shoes - Save 10% on Back to School purchase when you enter code BTSFERG09 until 8/31/09. Click HERE
• Modells – Save 20% when you spend $120 in the Back to School Collection. Ends August 31, 2009. Click HERE

Happy shopping and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

I can’t speak for all Latinas, or women, but I know my hair is my shining glory! My hair can easily make or break an outfit. When healthy, it makes me feel beautiful and chic, for that reason, I always make sure to take care of my locks.  In my quest, I discovered the Smooth, Volume and Nature Fusion from Pantene. They are wonderful hair products that not only take care of your hair but also make it smell Latinalicious! 

Pantene recently launched the ”Everyday Girls”. They are real girls/women, like you and I, who care just as much about their hair as we do! Pantene recorded several of these girls telling their hair stories and giving advise that “real” women, not models, can incorporate into their lives. You can view one of the videos below. Note, its in Spanish; however, if you click on the video it will show you several other Pantene videos on the right hand side that are in English.

You can also find out more about the science of Pantene in Spanish HERE and in English HERE.

Now here’s the good great news:  Pantene is giving away 3 bottles of the above mentioned products to one of Ms. Latina’s readers!  Hmmm can you imagine the admiring looks you will receive after using these products?! I know I can!

MANDATORY ENTRY- YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE ANY EXTRA ENTRIES:

Let me know why you would like to use  Smooth, Volume and Nature Fusion from Pantene.   

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Subscribe via e-mail or feed. Subscription options can be found on the right-hand side. If you’re already a subscriber, let me know! NOTE: If you subscribe by e-mail, you must validate your e-mail address. You can do so via the e-mail sent by Feedburner. If you do not validate your e-mail address the entry will be disqualified.

2. Follow me on Twitter (@MsLatina) and  tweet about the giveaway saying, Want beautiful hair? Enter @MsLatina ‘s Pantene Giveaway! http://tinyurl.com/pkxmze RT   One tweet per day till the giveaway ends, so go ahead tweet away!

3. Blog about the event and provide me with the url.

4. Fave me on on Technorati or Digg. Don’t forget to leave your user name for 2 extra entries.

5. Become a FaceBook Fan by clicking HERE or on the link found on the right-hand side. Get 3 extra entries for becoming a Fan!

**********

GIVEAWAY ENDS AUGUST 31, 2009 at 11:59 P.M. EST

Open to US residents only

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As always, I will use random.org to select the winner. Note, in order for random.org to count all of your entries, a  seperate comment must be entered for each item that is completed. Random.org will not count it otherwise.  

This week I am featuring my friend’s shoes, with her foot in them! I was trying to pry them off for myself but she was savvy enough to know what I was doing!  They are blue suede 4 1/2  inch heels from Steve Madden, originally priced at $149, yet brought during a latinalicious sale for $59.97!  I vote CHIC!!!

Update:

Just found out where she purchased the shoes, click HERE. Also, if you want to buy them click HERE to get discount coupon codes FIRST. The codes should reduce the price by about $10. Suerte and don’t forget to stash that ca$h!

Enjoy!

I love Ann Taylor’s business attire. Its feminine yet corporate. I have to admit, whenever I wear Ann Taylor I feel prepared and ready to conquer the workplace!

I’ve found that Ann Taylor Loft’s business attire is cheaper than Ann Taylor, yet the quality remains the same. Its a classic look that can be worn for years. It also goes well with so many of the trendy pieces found at bebe.com, oldnavy.com,  and ESPRIT.

Right now Ann Taylor is having a HUGE end of summer clearance sale, which is the perfect time to stock up on Summer items that can be worn in the Fall and Winter. I love their capris, sundresses, and short sleeve blouses since I think these items can be accessorized and worn well into the cooler months.

Add onto your savings by using this coupon that I received by e-mail. Click HERE to download. Coupon expires on August 9, 2009.

Enjoy and don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Carnaby Patchwork Hobo

I don’t want to influence anyone but I absolutely LOVE this bag!

Are you looking for a magazine that will inform you of the latest fashions, shoes, hairstyles, and beauty tips? Are you ALSO looking for a magazine that will give you all of that at a bargain price? Of course you are! You wouldn’t be Latinalicious if you did it any other way!

Well Ms. Latina has found a latinalicious goodie just for you: a FREE one year subscription to Marie Claire! Its sure to arm you with the latest trends so you can be the fashionista that you and I both know you are! Or you can give the subscription as a gift (See #7 in my previous post HERE).

In the end, whichever way you go it will save you some cha-ching! Just don’t forget to stash that extra ca$h!

Click HERE to get your FREE subscription!

We’re starting something new on Latina On a Mission! Every Friday, I’ll feature a different piece of clothing or a pair of shoes and YOU decide if its CHIC or just plain CHEAP! Just leave a comment and let us know what you think.  

bebe Tie Dyed Poncho

Short on time?  Just write “cheap” or “chic” in the comment section!

Celebrity Makeup Artist Mally Roncal and Q-tips cotton swabs are rescuing divas with runny mascara, making sure those long lashes stay as “Latinalicious” as you! They are starting off in New York City and will travel over the US with ”FREE Summer Beauty Rescue Makeovers with Celebrity Makeup Artist Mally Roncal and her team of beauty experts”!

This Wednesday in NYC, you will be able to enjoy your free make-over AND a sample of  the new Q-tips® Vanity Pack at Macy’s at  Herald Square on 34th Street! It will be held on the main floor on Wednesday, July 29, 2009, between the hours of 10am-2pm. 

So let’s recap:

WHAT:FREE Summer Beauty Rescue Makeovers with Celebrity Makeup Artist Mally Roncal and her team of beauty experts

WHEN: Wednesday, July 29th, 10am – 2pm

WHERE: Main Floor at Macy’s Herald Square, 151 West 34th Street, between 7th Avenue and Broadway

And don’t forget your FREE  sample of  the new Q-tips Vanity Pack! Hmmm I don’t know about you but I could use these pretty little things for so much more than cleaning mascara! What do you think?

If you’re not in the NYC area, click HERE to find a participating location near you!

bebe jeans are the perfect pair of jeans to wear on a date, to dinner, to a lounge, AND to a club.  They can be dressed up or down.  Grunge or sexy …  bebe jeans always look chic, never cheap. They are most definitely the jeans to wear. A pair so sleek, you can rest assured that you will never be ignored!

How could they get any better? I’ll tell you how… they can NOW win you a $1,000 Shopping Spree! Just Rock bebe Jeans  and show off those moves by posting a picture and video. I’ve been practicing mine! Now if my sons could just stop laughing long enough maybe they can keep the camera straight!

Click HERE to enter and for more details. Just remember to come back and share your video with us. It’ll increase your chances of winning so drop a comment with your info!

Than shop away and stash that extra ca$h!

I’m so excited Modell’s is having a SALE and I discovered a coupon! The coupon will allow you to take 20% off a single purchase. The coupon is only good today and tomorrow (7/21-7/22/09).

Click HERE to have coupon automatically applied.  

I actually plan to use the coupon to purchase the above pair of sneakers for a grand total of $31.98! I plan to use them to start my new exercise routine. I even included the break down to show you my savings! A Latinalicious find that will keep me in comfort and style if I do say so myself!  

**********

Merchandise Subtotal:	$39.97
20% Off One Item!	-$7.99
Shipping and Handling:	$5.99
Free Shipping & Free Return Shipping on all Footwear!	-$5.99
Sales Tax:No sales tax except in CA, GA, KY, MA, NY, PA & VA	$0.00
Total:	$31.98

 **********

Of course, I plan on stashing that extra 20% savings!

What about you? What do you plan on getting?

Did you order your FREE Paint? I found out about it from New York Chica, but took too long to put in my order.  Thankfully, Glidden is offering a $5 mail-in rebate for people like me who weren’t able to jump on the freebie offer. The rebate is given after the purchase of a one-gallon, quart or five-gallon can of Glidden™ Premium Interior or Exterior paint.

Click HERE to see the colors that are available.

Click HERE to get the coupon which is valid until July 5, 2009.

This would be perfect for a future home design project that I have in mind. Its a cheap and chic way to decorate that doesn’t take much effort. It should cost you less than $5-$10 depending on where you live. Yet the finished product will look like its worth so much more! I won’t give away the details just yet. I want to finish my project so I can post the pictures!

Till then make sure you pick up a small can of paint!

Avoid the lines buy online and support Ms. Latina’s blog while you’re at it! Click below.

I am so happy that Soon to Be Mrs. K of Saving Money for a Wedding introduced me to DOTS the clothing store! They have wonderfully chic & cheap clothes and accesories in their stores that I love for updating my summer wardrobe. Best of all, I can get my shopping fix without feeling guilty about overspending! 

I received these Latinalicious coupons, valid until June 21, 2009, by e-mail. You can also, if you subscribe to their e-mails, by clicking HERE. In the meantime, you can use mine

$5 off $25 Purchase

$10 off a $30 Purchase

$15 off $50 Purchase

Below are several complete outfits for under $65, that are even less with the coupons above!

Happy Shopping!

This weekend I decided to do a little shoe shopping, on a budget of course!  As I’ve said before I try to do price comparisons when shopping to make sure I get a bigger bang for my buck. I also enjoying shopping online because of the online discounts that can’t be applied in stores and I have to admit I like getting boxes in the mail! Makes me feel like I’m getting a present!

Here are the shoes I found. I included coupons where available. Let me know what you think!

1. Enjoy 50% off the Enzo Angiolini Janah sandal at Piperlime. Free shipping too! Get shopping These heels are comfortable while also looking stylish! Qualities that I look for since I walk about 2 miles to work everyday and have to look stylish on the way!

2. Jessica Simpson Vanity Patent Leather Pump I think the heel on these shoes are what make them so amazing. The different shades of red on the heels make them stand out. Definitely a shoe that would dress up any outfit and get you noticed.

3. Nine West Women’s Lovenyc Dress Pump Can you imagine these with a short black dress, a jean mini skirt or even shorts?! I absolutely fell in love with these! The price wasn’t bad either at $31.98 on Amazon. They are also eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping.

4. Nine West Women’s Jack Platform Ankle Strap A pump that will last for many seasons! I love it!

5. Nine West Women’s Sorbet T-Strap Wedge This last one is just what I needed for the weekend. It goes really well with a few sundresses that I brought at the 9th Avenue Festival, which is an assortment of stores that sell their wares at below market prices in NYC.

Have you heard of DailyCandy? An old supervisor of mine turned me onto this website several years ago and I’ve been hooked ever since. Its a Latinalicious way of finding Chic & Cheap clothes, bags and shoes. They also give you the inside scoop  on some great sample sales!

The site can be customized to your location or if you are going out of town to the area you are visiting, which I find works for me and helps me save money.

Now onto the good news, the Bag Hunt….

Today I heard that they are doing a massive treasure hunt that will be held this weekend and next in NYC!  They are giving away 90 name brand bags! They will place them at various locations in the city and will give us clues via Twitter. Just follow twitter.com/rachelnasvik to get the info and put those Nancy Drew skills to the test!

Suerte/Good Luck on finding the bag, cause mija/girl a  FREE new name brand bag filled with goodies like bobby pins, designer accessories, lipgloss, Thea Grant key chains sounds just about right for me!

Now get to hunting!

 
Rachel Nasvik Bag Hunt

To sleuth bags, follow twitter.com/rachelnasvik.

I love inviting friends over, whether for a birthday party, a gabfest or as my good friend Ivette suggested a Wii Party! Of course, when I do I like to decorate for the event. I found the perfect way, which also happens to be Latinaliciously chic AND cheap!  

I used to buy birthday, holiday and theme  decorations whenever family and friends gathered. Normally I would go to the 99 cents store, which I thought was very frugal of me. Boy was I wrong! If I added up the cost of my annual decorations it came out to more than one hundred dollars a year, which is still very cheap considering today’s standards. However,  I knew I could put that hundred dollars to better use!

My cousin, Lourdes, gave me the inspiration. She had one wall in her son’s room painted as a  blackboard. The kids used it to draw and write and it kept them entertained for hours! I loved it but did not like the authenticity of the wall- it was black and didn’t match my decor. So off I went to Home Depot where I discovered that you can write on ANY wall that uses paint that can be cleaned with soap and water, typically labeled as kid-friendly paint.

I used the Glidden Evermore Interior Latex Enamel Satin on my walls because it was on sale at the time I made my purchase but there are other brands available. Talk to a one of their sales-personnel, since they can show you which brands of paint are washable. Pick the one that best suits your decor and price range. Also note darker colors tend to work best with chalk.

I didn’t stop there. I decided if I could write on my walls I should also be able to hang stuff on them without making holes (perfect for rentals)! I was right! I brought some Wall Magnetic Paint  and now I can not only write on my walls but I can also hang pictures, birthday cards, and homemade decorations when my friends and I gather.

FYI: I’ve done a search and Amazon has the cheapest price for the Wall Magnetic Paint ($22.62- $29.30).

Below is a picture of my living room’s magnetic chalk wall:

As you can tell I could never make my life as a Graffiti artist but don’t you just love the oval necklace I was able to stick to the magnetic wall! Thought it was a nice touch

I received notice of this event from the same Latinalicious Diva who hosted one of the very first giveaway’s on Latina On a Mission! It appears that they will be having an event in New York City on June 13, 2009 between 11 AM and 6 PM at 199 Bowery, NY, NY 10002.

Sadly, I won’t be able to attend the event; however, if interested, below is a copy of the information I received.

**********

Girlfriends Beauty Bag is a multi-sensory beauty expo for women all shades of beautiful. The event will consist of product sampling, educational panel discussions, shopping, complimentary massages, nail grooming, and hair consultations. We invite you to join our 2nd annual party!

Girlfriends senses will…
Hear – Creative words of wisdom from our expert panelists
Feel – The massage therapists and manicurists make them feel divine
See – Beauty enhanced with the help of professional make-up artists and hair stylists
Smell – Delicious fragrances, potions and lotions
Taste- Hors d oeuvres and a sponsored open bar

LOCATION
Saturday, June 13, 2009
11:00AM-6:00PM

BLVD
199 Bowery
NYC 10002

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
11:00AM       Media/VIP/Sponsor Brunch 
12:00Noon    General Admission Doors Open
1:00PM         Makeup Panel Discussion
2:15PM         Healthy Hair Panel Discussion
3:30PM         Sexy Skin Panel Discussion
*Shopping, sampling and pampering throughout the day

TICKETS
$10     General Admission
$30     Deluxe (giftbag and open bar)
$40     VIP (giftbag, open bar and VIP brunch)
*Bring a copy of your receipt

QUESTIONS
Feel free to contact Tinalee Media & Events at (641) 715-3358 x88401# or contact@tinaleemedia.com.

On Saturday, May 30th between 11 and 6pm, there will be a free swap in the BKLYN Yard (388-400 Carroll St) in Brooklyn -of course!  Whats this you ask? Its a great way to swap your old stuff for “new” stuff, all while listening to the DJ beats of Skinny Friedman (Philadelphyinz), DJ Kestar (Crooked Disco), DJ Morsy (Nanachill), Ian Urgo, Tektite (Vitamin Breaks), Shakeyface and more.

FreeNYC and several other companies are hosting the Score! event, which states you can bring  ”your old Twisted Sister albums, ill-advised sample sale purchases, well-intentioned gifts from grandma, those jeans that just don’t fit anymore, etc, and get ready to exchange them for new loot!”  You do NOT need money and there is no exchange rate to swap. Simply drop off what you are exchanging then look through the tables to see if you find anything you like and its yours- FREE- so come and find some hidden treasures!

Left over items will be donated to various charities, another great reason to bring your old stuff to the event.

I recently discovered this cheap and chic way to maintain your nails on Another Maria’s blog. I think its a fantastic idea! Not only will it save you money but it will ensure your cuticles remain healthy!  Thank you Maria for this wonderful tip!

Seventeen Magazine has two Latinalicious freebies going on right now.

1. Beginning on May 5, 2009, if you take Seventeen magazine’s June 2009 cover or a printout of their Internet homepage to any participating Charlotte Russe store you will receive a FREE pair of sunglasses, valued at about six dollars ($6.00 USD). This offer is only while their 100,000 sunglasses supplies last. So avanza/hurry and get your freebie! Note: This offer ends on June 8, 2009 or till supplies last, whichever comes first.

They had alot of great shades but these are my favorite pairs:

2.  Beginning on April 28, 2009, Seventeen magazine is giving away a FREE Hollywood Instant Tan Powered by Mystic Giveaway! Para mujeres ginchas como yo/For pale women like me this is a great giveaway because I can now fake the glow without exposing myself to the harmful rays! An added plus is that I always seem to look thinner with a tan – wooo hoooo! This giveaway expires on June 30, 2009. Only the first 5,000 people will be eligible.  Offer valid at participating salons with photo I.D. Please visit hollywoodtans.com for a participating location near you. Seventeen will post a notice when the 5,000 max has been reached. At the time of posting they had not, so hurry, hurry, hurry!   

Click HERE to enter both giveaways.

Out with the old and in with the new … haircut that is!

Herbal Essences, one of my favorite hair care and color product makers, is offering free haircuts to US and Canadian consumers! The haircuts will be given during the summer, which is perfect for a new Latinalicious style!

To get this freebie, you have to buy two (2) specially marked bottles. The bottles, from the new “Hydralicious” collection, should sport a green sticker on the front advertising the free haircut. After purchase visit the TLC Marketing site, enter the UPC codes from the bottles, print your redemption form and mail it, along with the original receipts, no later than June 30.In about four to six weeks, you should receive your beauty treatment voucher by mail. The vouchers expire on July 31.

You would then use this voucher to gain access to another web site that lists participating salons where vouchers can be redeemed. This info will be provided with the voucher. If you don’t have a participating salon within 30 miles of you, then you can contact TLC’s Concierge service (number will be listed on the voucher) and they will make alternative arrangements for you! Love it!

Now pass it on!

Repost from Blogspot

I am constantly on the lookout for Latinalicious shoes, and today I hit the jackpot while searching the net. I found an AMAZING site that made me feel as though I had died and gone to shoe heaven!

AMI Clubwear is chic AND cheap, which are two of my favorite combinations. There were so many shoes to pick from that were under $20. They had sexy shoes for work, to go out dancing, to go out on a date, to hang with friends and to stroll with the family!

My favorite shoes were … you guessed it heels (Luly you created a shoe monster LOL). They have a 3/4″  inch platform and a wrapped 4 3/4 inch high heel. They also have a cushioned footbed to keep those feet as beautiful as ever – no calluses allowed with that foot bed! I love the come hither appeal of these shoes. They say I can do anything, anywhere, anytime, which is sexy all on its own! Of course, the $19.99 pricetag of these shoes make them a no brainer for me.  Below is a picture of the shoe.

They were inspired by shoes worn by Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker in Sex and the City. Below you will find a picture of her in the shoes.

Amazing aren’t they? Definitely a shoe that can be worn with jeans, dresses, shorts, capris, you name it and these shoes will make them work! What do you think, are they Latinalicious or what?!

I discovered this Latinalicious coupon on Saving Money for a Wedding. Soon to be Mrs. K has wonderful information to help you save money for a wedding (couldn’t you tell by the title?). She also has some wonderful giveaways that feature wedding gear, jewelry, and much more! She discovered this goodie that I’m passing onto you!

I’ve never heard of Dots; however, the coupon had me intrigued. Saving money always does that to me! I decided to search the web, by using  Swagbucks of course! It just wouldn’t be Latinaliciously frugal of me if I didn’t use the opportunity to make a few swag bucks while I was searching the web would it? I was overjoyed to discover that Dots is a fashionable store with reasonable prices.  

I found lots of summer dresses that can be used over jeans or on their own. I also found one dress that would look absolutely gorgeous with a cardigan for casual Friday that retailed for $20 (see below).  Most of their trendy pieces were retailing for $30 or less. I can’t guarantee the material or that the clothes will still be in style next year, but they are pieces that can update what you already have in your closet without breaking the bank.

If you complete a short survey you will be able to print out a ten dollar coupon. The coupon expires on May 11, 2009. I suggest you also download it as an Adobe PDF. This will allow you to print several for your friends and family.  Click HERE to complete the survey. Click HERE to find a store near you.

On a side note, if Dots clothes does not appeal to you, you can always use the coupon and stash the item you purchase for a future Christmas or Birthday gift!

My home is my sanctuary, my oasis away from all the ruckus and strife that I encounter throughout my day. In order to make it my haven, I had to personalize it. Since I live in an apartment rental, I did not want to spend much. I needed to make it mine without breaking the budget so I thought outside the box!

Today I will show you parts of my room and how I used everyday items to decorate it, making it feminine without going into debt! To start it off I painted my room a rich green and orange. I did it myself to save money. I used paint I already had so I did not have to pay for paint. I tend to change my colors often so I do keep extra paint on hand which I purchase at Home Depot. If you are open to colors, they have a section of returned custom blend paints that are sold for a deep discount.  This is offered in EVERY Home Depot. You can also get FREE paint at Freecycle if you can wait to find something you like. 

After my colors were chosen I looked for items that would go with my color scheme. Below are the items I selected. 

Picture 1

1. I paid 50¢ (Fifty CENTS) for the picture frame and 25¢ (twenty-five CENTS) for each of the hooks. I set this up in my room behind the door so that I could get my clothes ready the night before. I also use the side hooks to hang  handbags or for my robe. The grand total for this section of my room was$1.50!

Pictures 2, 3 & 4

2, 3 & 4. I have a border that runs across my room. I was unable to get it in one picture and so broke it up into three pictures above. I painted the bottom of the border an orange stripe. I thought it gave the green a nice contrast.  I then purchased pictures from one of the many NYC vendors for $5 each. I placed the pictures in frames that I purchased in Kmart for $1 each. The circular things on the side are actually trivets that I purchased in a flea market for 25¢ (twenty-five CENTS) each. The total for 3 pictures, 3 frames, and 4 trivets as shown here was $19!

Picture 5

5. This is a picture of the hallway that leads to my room. I used some of the orange paint to do a section of the wall. I then put wooden place-mats on the wall to cover the electrical panel. The place-mats were $1 each at Jacks,  a 99¢ store located in NYC. The mirrors were purchased on discount at Kmart because one of the mirrors were scratched. I paid $5 for each several years ago. The large frame on the left-hand side was the most expensive at $19.99 but the verse won me over! It’s an inspirational slogan that greets me every morning, definitely worth every penny!

Picture 6

6. I  purchased the above material on clearance for less then $10. I created a border around the blinds provided with the rental. I did not need to sew, I was able to tie the material around the blinds with minimal effort. I have to say that the color in this photo does not do the material justice. It is a beautiful orange with a shimmer to it. It blends in well with the colors on the wall without overwhelming you.

Before these changes my room was a dull white, very bland and boring. I was able to paint the room in two days because I used two colors and the boys were underfoot. I then searched for items that I already had or was able to pick up for very cheap. All in all I spent about $63 on these items and I must say I am very pleased with the outcome!  

Do you have any frugal decorating ideas? If so, I would love to hear them!

I came across this blended stretch cotton-knit dress in Esprit’s sale section. Its perfect for work and very reasonable at $29.99, even cheaper if you use this 10% Off at ESPRIT coupon.

The dress is also machine washable which will save you money in the long run. It’s a classic black dress than can be worn all year round. It comes with a thin black belt that creates a waistline. It can also be accesorized with brighter colors, making it one Latinalicious steal!

 What do you think? Would you wear it?

I was recently admiring my mother’s smooth complexion. She doesn’t spend much on her beauty routine yet she has such smooth skin! I decided to investigate her Latinalicious “secrets” and share them with YOU. Here’s what I discovered:

1. To keep her lips moist, she smears sugar on them, the real thing not Splenda, Equal or Sweet & Low,  because those lips, unlike our hips, don’t mind getting plump. The sugar works as a sweet exfolient that vanishes dry cracked lips while tasting oh soooo yummy!

2.  As a licensed Cosmetogist, my mother learned to use the cool setting on the blow-dryer to set her hair instead of hair spray, which is bad for the ozone layer and not the type of hair my honey wants to run his hands through!  

3. My Mom loves avocados! Not just because they’re so lip smacking good but because we also use them for

(a) Our hair as a moisturizer- Mix avocado with olive oil and an egg yolk. Leave on for 20-30 minutes depending on the texture. The mixture will prevent aging on our most delicate area. moisturize and give sheen to your hair.

(b) To smooth puffy eyes- Mix avocado with aloe vera gel. You can use the recipe noted HERE.

4. If you are like my mom, you may wash your rice before cooking. If so, she suggests you use the drained water on your face as a mask. Apparently my grandmother used the drained water to moisturize her face. Hmmm not sure if she did it to save money back on the farm or because it really worked since I have never done it.

5. In the evening, after using a loofah on your feet, apply vaseline as this will seal in the moisture.

6. Put oatmeal in your bath. It will leave your skin smooth and polished. Also, great if you get alot of mosquito bites in the summer to alleviate the itch.

7. To exfoliate your face, get a hot cup of green tea. Drape a towel over your face, putting your face over the cup. The vapors will open up your pores, helping to get rid of black heads.

8. To get smooth hands, fill a bowl with warm water, natural apple cider vinegar and soak. This will remove dead skin.

9. An egg white mask on your face can be used to get smoother baby soft skin. Just let it dry, then peel it off!

Did your mom do any of these? Or do you have any natural beauty products that you use? Let us know!

Yay! Ann Taylor has just released its 30% Friends and Family coupon. It can be used in stores and online, just enter coupon code “FRIENDS” at check-out. It ends on May 3.

Click HERE to print out a copy.

In celebration of Earth Day on Wednesday, April 22, Disney is giving away FREE totes, while supplies last, to anyone who brings in  three plastic bottles! You can find a store near you by clicking HERE.

The tote is an adorable cream color and features the Mickey hugging our planet Earth (picture above). It perfect for a day in the park, at the beach,  or to lug around groceries.

If you are Latinalicously frugal you can also use the tote as a children’s gift-bag, filling it with items brought on sale. Now is actually a great time to purchase a ton of items: Children’s Place has Easter clothes, shoes and accessories on sale, Toys R Us has Easter candy and toy deals, as do most drugstores, and of course the Dollar store is a bargain paradise! All in all, a beautiful gift-bag can be created with less than $10 in NYC. However, if you live in another state that has a cheaper cost of living than NYC you should be able to create a wonderful gift-bag for less than $5!!!

Now go rummage through that recycle bin, grab those plastic bottles, and run on over to Disney for your freebie!

Also, if you haven’t already joined, you still have time to enter the Shea Butter Balm Giveaway!

I love Mother’s Day! Its one of the few days where I am actually treated like a Queen and can’t we all use more of those days!

This year I decided to make a list of what I would like for Mother’s Day, and shamelessly promote it on my blog, in case anyone is wondering and needs ideas!

Feel free to add onto my list or make your own by posting a comment! Cause as one very wise woman told me one day “Sharing is caring!”

1.  Breakfast in Bed – Seriously what is better than laying in bed while eating your favorite meal!

2.  A handmade card from my sons. I keep these each year and one day plan on making a scrapbook (future post).

3. Chocolate that I don’t have to share! I LOVE the Chocolate Covered Artisan Marshmallow With Caramel at Chocolate.com.

4. A fridge stocked with my favorite Baskins Robins ice cream, Oreo Cookies and Cream AND Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, and a pantry stocked with  Brownies from Chocolate.com so I can make my Brownie Delight at home: Hot brownies with ice cream and fudge on top!   Aye que rico!

 5. A good book that I can read during some quiet time, purchased with a coupon, of course: Save 10% off one item with coupon code: W3W7B7K

(a) Prayers for Sale by Sandra Dallas 
(b) Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man by Steve Harvey- I truly do not believe in changing oneself to win a man but so many of my girlfriends have given this book rave reviews. Now I’m on a mission to see if it stands up to the hype. Will let you know! 
(c) The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton -I love a good mystery and this book received 4.5 stars in reader ratings. Hope its as good as they say!

 6. A picnic lunch at the beach

7. New clothes to wear to the beach! Totally loving these chic and cheap items:Tianna Pleated Cami (good for work too),Brenna Maxi Dress(long and flowing), Karen Chiffon Top(Hint!Hint! Totally loving this one Ken!), Lanie Halter Dress(great for my figure-small on top!), Shauna Tank(defines & gives me a waistline!). 

8. Accessories because they can update any outfit! I absolutely love the Brook Cutout Leather Cuff(A steal for $12.50!), Goldie Floppy Hat(Saves my skin & hair from the damaging rays!),Verena Wood Bracelet (daintier than the leather cuff), Venus Tassel Hobo(big enough to carry my kids knick knacks while looking chic!), Davina Buckle Belt(LOVE THIS BELT!).

As you can tell,  I am leaning towards earth tones this year, which will work well with the items I brought last year that were so much brighter.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On a side note, did you know that Mother’s Day was created on May 12, 1907, by Anna Jarvis in honor of her recently deceased mother? She wanted other’s to note the contributions that mothers make and fought for 7 years to make it a national holiday. It was finally recognized in 1914!  Her excitement was later dimmed when she saw how the holiday was commercialized. In 1920, she started a company called Mother’s Day International Association, claiming copyright to the second Sunday in May and fought vehemently against the holiday. She said, “A printed card means nothing except that you are too lazy to write to the woman who has done more for you than anyone in the world. And candy! You take a box to Mother—and then eat most of it yourself. A pretty sentiment!” Now she was definitely a woman dedicated to her mission!

Add to your savings with these Latinalicious discounts!

dELiA’s:

dELiA*s Clearance! Up to 80% off. Shop Now!

Take 15% off your order with code BTS15

delias.com : Request a Catalog

Jeans & pants – Buy one, get one HALF OFF at dELiA*s! Select styles.

Thought this was worth a try! Make Your Wishlist at dELiAs*cOm If you win your wishlist I would love to know!

Esprit:

FREE: 10% Off – ESPRIT – Online Special

Old Navy:

Old Navy – Women’s Bargains

Old Navy- Boy Bargains

Old Navy – Girl Bargains

 
Modells:

Get 15% off Entire Orders at Modells.com! (Exclusions Apply. Ends 4.30)

Payless:

Payless $5 off $60 – Code: PSS5OFF60

NOTE: If you have your Payless orders delivered to the store shipping is FREE!

And last, but not least, thought this site, Promgirl, was great for the prom girls in your life. They had some as low as $19!!! Just sort by price to find the best deals.

Promgirl:

 
Free Promgirl E-book with membership!

Go figure, I never would have guessed it by their name but they also had some really nice swimwear too!

Just like with any other purchase I make, I shop for clothes with a budget in mind so as not to derail my savings goal. I like to do some window shopping, in this case virtual shopping, beforehand to get an idea of what is out there. I found some great things that were definitely chic AND cheap and oh so versatile, which is a must if you are on a budget!  Of course all these items are machine wash!!! 

Loved the item below called Miss Oops Boobtube Lace from Gomatta Girls. They had different styles but I prefer the lace, sexy but still corporate! Great under suits, dresses or tops with plunging necklines – a corporate no-no. Cost $12.50. Click HERE to go to site.

Miss Oops BoobTube Lace

Perfect for work and so much more, don’t you think? Cost $34.50. Click to purchase 
Women: Women’s Button-Front Chiffon Dresses – Black

Love this shirt! Can be worn with a denim skirt or jeans for a night out on the town or slacks for casual Friday. The price is great too at $39! Click HERE to go to site.

Delia's Demi Crochet Tunic

This one is labeled as a dress but I would actually wear it as a shirt with a nice belt. It could also be worn to work with a black vest over it paired with some slacks or even with a pencil skirt. Very Bohemian don’t you think? Its a great buy at $39.50 and machine washable! Love it!

Delia's Iza Dress

I am totally loving Delia’s white shirts! They are a true necessity when updating  a summer wardrobe. This one helps create curves, so latinalicious, and only $39.50!

Joni Embroidered Tunic

 

And best of all I found these discounts!

Take 15% off your order with code BTS15 

 I’m not sure but you may be able to add this next one to your order also. I’ll be placing my order after payday- have to stay on budget!

Free Shipping on dELiA*s orders of $25 or more! Hurry, ends 4.30.09. Use code DXEAFF.

Will post pics when I get mine to show you how these new items can make a thrift store buy look couture!

1.  Rampage Flirtini would look great with anything! Suits, jeans, shorts, skirts you name it they will bring out the vixen in you! The price is  just right at $39.99

2. Calvin Klien Pixy in Brown is on sale for $49.97. These shoes would look great n every season! 

Calvin Klein Pixy

 3.  Nine West Lawrence in Bone is $59.99 and the Black is $49.99. I like black but hey the bone would showcase a nice tan, don’t you think?

4.  Jessica Simpson Manning‘s a steal at 29.97. The brown patent is definitely an eye turner!

5. Rampage Harpo‘s are a summer must with the cork heel. Very trendy right now. The price,  $39.99, won’t break the bank either.  

I’m hooked on Gomatta Girls dresses! Look at the dress I found below,  so chic and cheap. Isn’t it gorgeous?! I love it even more because it was created by a fellow Latino, LA celebrity stylist M. Ruiz. Oh la la

I decided it would go perfectly with the shoes I purchased at Piperlime below. What do you think?

Isn’t it beautiful? I loved it when I saw it on Gomatta Girls. Its a GREAT site that offers clothing, shoes, accessories, home goods, and baby stuff for 70-90% off retail! Definitely chic & cheap!

They offer one Latinalicious piece per day until they run out of stock and then its Finito- gone for good- and they move FAST! So fast that I missed out on my dream dress! *Sigh* The search continues but I am ever hopeful that Gomatta Girls will throw another Latinaliciously limited dress out for me to purchase!

Check it out and leave me a comment if you see one on their site that is Latinalicous enough for me to wear with a pair of black pumps that I ALREADY purchased on PiperLime!