have your coffee and banish your cellulite too

  I always see these posts and pictures about coffee grounds working as a cellulite treatment on Pinterest, magazines, and even on the Dr. OZ (if Dr. Oz says it works..it must be worth a try)

After a little research I have found that there are different recipes out there on how to make your cellulite banishing concoction, opinions on which ones are the best,  but the one thing that remains the same are some proven facts, such as...

1) Applied topically, caffeine works on cellulite by increasing circulation to the affected area. This may help remove toxins and excess water from the tissue, thereby lessening the dimpled texture. The stimulating effects of the caffeine found in coffee can create a more toned and taut appearance. However, any noticeable improvements caused by the topical application of caffeine will only be temporary.

2) According to the Mayo Clinic, 80 percent of women have cellulite. Seen as a dimpled or knotted texture on the skin, cellulite is a type of fat that doesn't easily disappear without some type of alternative treatment. Caused by heredity, hormonal changes, poor circulation or an accumulation of toxins, the cottage cheese-like appearance of cellulite often develops in women's thigh and buttock areas.

3) Caffeine is a primary ingredient in many pricey store-bought cellulite creams. Thankfully, you can make your own cellulite treatment at home for a fraction of the cost. After enjoying your next cup of morning coffee, save your warm coffee grounds. When applied topically to the skin in the form of a wrap, coffee grounds may be an effective way to smooth out the lumpy appearance of cellulite.

So..what do I have to lose?  After making my morning cup of joe this week...I have taken the "Still warm" kcup from my kureig into the shower with me. Before I turn the water on, I rub the coffee grounds over my lumpy thighs and ass.  Not sure if it will work...I'm going to give it a month, to see if it is in fact doing anything for me.

I prefer my "cellulite concoction" straight up....just warm coffee grounds, it's easy and I feel like I'm getting more $$ out my pricey KCups.:)

Here are some recipes that I have come across if you are more of the adventurous type.....

~Cellulite Scrub Ingredients: **½ cup coffee grounds **¼ cup sugar **¼ cup olive oil.

~Banish cellulite: Mix 1/4 cup warm, used coffee grounds with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then apply the mixture to your “problem areas” . Next, wrap the areas with shrink wrap and leave on for several minutes. Remove the wrap, brush loose grounds off your skin and then shower with warm water. For best results, it is recommended to repeat this procedure twice a week. The caffeine is purported to help metabolize fat when absorbed by the skin.

Here's to dimple free cheeks and thighs
Cheers xoxo
Erica

mommy and kiddo Monday

Mondays are not a typically favorite day of the week for most...but it is one of mine!  Since going back to work full time, Sunday and Monday is my "weekend".  Sunday is our family day usually having brunch, relaxing and doing other family stuff.
Monday on the other hand is my day.  Well, when the kids are in school, it's "my" day...but during the Summer it's our "mommy and kiddo" day.  We have found some really great ways to spend this day in Rochester, and I'd like to share some with you...

Caribou Coffee...
ok, I can't be the only mom that needs my caffeine buzz to get through the morning.  I have always loved Caribou because they offer a great Kid's corner to play, and healthy Odwalla smoothies! Bring a book, or catch up on email and fb while your kids occupy themselves with the fun toys and chalkboard!

Rochester Public Library....
My kids LOVE our library...they loved it before the remodel, but now since the remodel it's an AMAZING place to hang out!!  The first place they like to hit is the Art Room, a room where they can unleash some creativity and hang up their finished product for everyone to see.
Next, they are onto the "kids science museum" esq fun interactive play stations!!  There really is something for young babies all the way up.  My son is 10 and really enjoys most of the stations.  I love to watch them create and play, and use their imaginations!  Plus they always have great programs to join in.  Today, Ethan and Emerson will turn in their "Dig into Reading" charts that they have been working on all Summer...in exchange for a new book that they get to keep!

I will share more of our Monday stops on another "Mommy and Kiddo" Monday.... but for now we are off to Caribou to get our Monday off to a great start.

have a wonderful day!

xo~E

it's all in the BB cream

Unless you live under a "beauty rock, you have at least heard or seen something related to the rage (that came, and isn't going anywhere)  in make up....the BB cream, aka Beauty Balm! 

Beauty Balms or B.B. Creams were originally developed as a perfect post-procedure cream used to treat, hydrate, prime, protect, and camouflage the skin. Great for all skin types including those with sensitive skin, these versatile “five-in-one” formulas are designed to do it all: treat with high levels of active skin care ingredients; moisturize and smooth dehydrated skin; prime and perfect skin’s surface; camouflage and color correct the skin tone; and protect skin from the sun with SPF. They can be used as a last step for their skincare benefits or used on their own as an instant beautifier.

Of course being the beauty junkie that I am...I have tried a few and found my favorites.  I find that I really loved this product during the Summer months, for the days that I needed to wear a little make up.  Recently I retired the bb cream for a heavier foundation for the Fall....and just yesterday started to use the bb again, mixed in with my normal full coverage foundation.  Being that my skin is DRY, I like the added benefits the bb gives me, with the coverage from my foundation...they go together like peas and carrots!!

Here are my TOP picks for BB creams....

Steal and also my favorite during the Summer months!! Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. cream! $11.99 at Target and drug stores!  I LOVE the price tag on this, but was SUPER impressed with the product!  You get a spf of 15..but I always added another spf 50 under as a moisturizer and more protection.  It never feels heavy or cakey.  Just gives you a little coverage, and is buildable for the days you want a little more!  Add your bronzer, water proof mascara, and gloss and you are Summer time ready!. 

HOW IT WORKS

A combination of Hyaluronic Acid, Lipidure Microspheres + Glycerin retains water in the skin, allowing it to maintain superior moisture levels and improve softness and suppleness of skin for 24hours.

Vitamin C provides antioxidant properties, boosts radiance and luminosity of skin.

Mineral Pigments delicately and immediately beautiful skin. The rich pigments instantly melt and spread flawlessly over skin.

SPLURGE ... Smashbox Camera Ready BB cream. My Winter favorite!!  I mix 1/2 & 1/2 with my Smashbox 15 hr wear foundation for the perfect formula for me.  What I love about SmashBox bb cream, is that it has a whopping 35 spf, goes on so smooth and covers up my flaws without being too flaky or cakey....but for work, I like a little more full coverage, and I feel I need to add in my foundation.  My Foundation on it's own is WAY too drying right now and this mixture gives me the best of both products and absolutly LOVE them both...on their own at times, and together during these harsh, dry, MN winter months!

around $40.00 at About Face in Rochester (stop in to see Katie Kirckof for a sample or try) OR online at Sephora if you live elsewhere.

What it is:
A five-in-one formula for achieving flawless skin on camera and beyond. 

What it is formulated to do:
- Oil-controlling formulation with emollients and optical pearl pigments to provide hydration and visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles after only four weeks 
- Features SPF 35 sun protection 
- Comes in five shades 

This multitasking tinted cream formula with SPF 35 moisturizes, primes, perfects, controls oil, and protects for flawless skin on set and beyond. Formulated with emollients and optical pearl pigments, this BB Cream gives skin a glowing, ethereal look and provides a hydrating veil for the complexion to maintain moisture on the surface of the skin. With its ultra smoothing finish, it instantly re-texturizes to create a smooth canvas and enhances the wear of makeup. Ideal even for oily complexions, this expert formula with UVA/UVB protection helps inhibit oil to prevent the complexion from getting shiny throughout the day without the typical chalky matte finish. 

Another Awesome product in this "category" 

mark. "got the goods" multi-benefit foundation. This Liqua-perfecting foundation blends beautifully for an all-day coverage. Enriched with Antioxidant-Rich super fruits and Willow bark to help smooth and improve skin texture and tone. 

*Lightweight, oil-free, buildable coverage

*Formulated with super fruits and super foods

*Delivers spf 15 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection

*Immediately boosts skin's moisture by 57%

Comes in a beautiful bottle! and is ONLY $18.00 available through mark. girl Melissa Trost at www.mymarkstore.com/mtrost or  email her at melissa.markmentor@gmail.com with any questions.  Melissa has sent me a few samples..if you are local and would like to try this, let me know and I'll get you a sample!

xoxoxo~
Erica

What's new at JCP?  Here are my current favorites and the down-low on some of our new lines and designers {beyond FAB}


stack away – liz claiborne enamel bracelets!!!  Comes in MANY different styles, colors, and sizes!  The best part, I think.... are the fashion quotes that are engraved on the inside of each bracelet!!  GREAT Holiday gift idea for the fashionista on your list!




Who is Lulu Guinness some may ask!?! She's a popular British accessories fashion designer dolls. She designs whimsical and FUN-tastical handbags, umbrellas, cosmetic bags, key chains and a whole lot MORE. I love her stuff! Don't you think she's the equivalent of Kate Spade? Every time you look at one of her bags it puts a SMILE on your face.

With this collaboration with JCPenney, she's bringing economical but quality designs to us fun gals here in the States. I only posted some of the items here, but there are LOTS MORE on JCPenney's website and LOTS still avail at our store!!!! You won't believe the prices!!! Gooooooo! These will make great Christmas gifts!



take your pick — liz claiborne gloves with leather outer!!  So chic, classic and you just can't go wrong with a leather glove!!  Go for the bright red to go with your basic black or khaki trench!  The Blue, is also a great fun color!!

Kate Middleton's Favorite Designer Jenny Packham Collaborates With JCP!!  

Just in time for holiday—and the Kate Middleton fan in your life—one of the Duchess of Cambridge's favorite eveningwear designers, Jenny Packham, has teamed up with JCPenney to create a fabulous and affordable capsule accessories collection. Check out some of the gorgeous, sparkly pieces, above! 

The Jenny Packham Boudoir collection (available now!)

take it everywhere — betseyville crossbody!  I ADORE Betsy Johnson....and we have her super rad bags and accessories at our store!!!  This cross body is so fun, and would bring a pop of color to any outfit!!

My ALL TIME favorite line that we carry is "I heart Ronson"  by Charlotte Ronson exclusively at JCP! This above faux leather skirt is just plain fabulous!!  I like to wear mine with a chunky knit sweater, tights,and heeled boots.....OR a lacy cami, plaid jacket, leggings,and flats!!  It can be worn many ways and a must have for every girl's Fall/Winter 2012 wardrobe!  We STILL have a few left in our store!!
Here is a little info on Charlotte herself...

Fact: We heart Charlotte Ronson. From her namesake label that always strikes a chord with us at every New York Fashion Week to her amazing makeup line at Sephora that’s perfect for any girl on the go, there’s just nothing that Charlotte does these days that we don’t love.

That’s why I am stoked to have her latest I Heart Ronson collection for the Fall/Winter 2012 season with newly released line at JCP!! Filled with a mix of girly boho and street smart duds that come along with some anxiety-free price tags, can you really blame us for not having another reason to love CharRo?  I Heart Ronson line is exclusively available at JCPenney, both in-store and online. 

I am available at our Rochester Jcp and would LOVE to show you around our store and introduce you to these amazing lines, and what's new!

Contact me at elwolf@jcpenney.com and let's set up a time!!!  I look forward to it!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!!

XOXO~E

Erica Wolf
Fashion Expert
JCP Rochester, MN
elwolf@jcpenney.com
507.288.8383 ext. 234

What's in MY Bag!!!?

I love reading these in magazines...maybe I'm curious or just plain nosey...but seeing what is inside of a celebrity's bag is just thrilling to me.
I thought it would be fun to do a blog post on what is in MY bag...so here it is!  I dumped out the contents..then tried my best to arrange things so it looked somewhat like it does in the mags!


The bag... is a Fenn Wright Manson leather bag that is fabulous and the price tag was even more fabulous..because this girl found it at a thrift store for a whopping $8.99 {LOVE}

my H&M leather studded gloves...another thrift store find from a couple years ago and ALWAYS in my bag this time of the year.  It may be nice in the morning, but chilly when leaving work in the evening...nothing worse than an ice cold steering wheel!

Betseyville makeup bag!  Bought from  TJmaxx years ago, and my favorite.  It holds a ton and isn't bulky...plus it's super cute, and I don't mind pulling it out in public to grab what I need from it:)

Healthy snacks!  I have to have something healthy in my bag..if I don't..I'll stop for a cupcake somewhere!  If I have a (usually a Odwalla food bar or raw almonds) snack I can eat on the run..I'm set!

A book....I'm always reading a book, and there is usually one in my bag...you never know when you will be waiting in line, or just waiting...during which you will see me with my nose in a book. {always have been a book worm}

Business cards (in that adorable pink crocodile case that I got from mark. when I was a mentor with the company..and I still am in love with the case) because you should ALWAYS have your cards on you!

Sunglasses....these Coach sunnies I splurged and bought myself around 5 years ago, and I still love them.  A classic, big, black frame will always be chic!  You need to protect the delicate skin around your eyes, or just hide when you are not feeling your prettiest!

Eye cream...it's always in there....you never know when you could use a dab! Instant feel better, look better product!

An abundance of lip products....lipstick, chap stick, lip gloss, stain...yes I have them all, and yes I need them all!

fragrance samples....My signature fragrance is Chance by Chanel (have been wearing it for 10 years) but I like to have a fragrance in my bag to dab on when/if I need, and really don't like toting a huge bottle with me.  Currently, I am OBSESSED with "Juliette Has a Gun" in "Calamity"..it's just plain amazing, and a scent I really can't explain!  Stop in at {About Face} in Rochester and take a whiff, and see if you can score a sample!!

Rings....tonight I had 6 different rings in my bag.  It's the statement piece that I wear 9 days out of 10. At night..when I need to put those gloves on, because it's chilly out..I take the ring off and throw it in my bag, and that's how the collection at the bottom of my bag is explained:)

Iphone...in a "juice pack" because it's the best case ever (it charges my phone) and it's so chic.

Sanitizer and Wet Ones....because I have small kids and I'm always wiping hands and faces. And sometimes mommy touches something gross.

Teas and Emergen-C...I love coffee in the morning, but as the day goes on, I drink herbal tea...esp love ones by "yogi" and "TAZO"!!   Emergen-C (Vitamin C dietary supplement with 24 nutrients and 7 B vitamins..with Antioxidants & Electrolytes) is a must have for this time of the year and I try to drink it a couple times a day..my hubby swears by it for the cold- flu season. And since he hardly ever gets sick..I'm giving it a try this year! P.S. they have it for kiddos too...and I mix it into their morning juice and they slam it down.


There you have it...exciting huh? haha

What's in YOUR bag??

XOXO~E

Steal verses splurge>>>beauty

  Cheek color!  I'm pretty sure that we all love a little color on the apples of our cheeks on any given day!  I personally am a sucker for pink!  I like just a natural flush to my cheeks....some days a little shimmer added, but I always end up back at these two amazing products!

Splurge

NARS blush in Orgasm 

It delivers the BEST "natural-looking flush" hence the name! 

$29.00 at About Face in Rochester, MN or online at Sephora

Steal

"Just Pinched" blush tint from mark. in the shade "Cheeky" 

Glides on smoothly and blends easily to provide a sheer wash of natural-looking color!!
ONLY $8.00 available at www.mymarkstore.com/mtrost

When was the last time you were in a JcPenney store?

JCPenney....the company being over 100 years old, I think we all know or have been to one.
I grew up in a tiny town and we had a JCpenney (it's now called JCP) and I remember it very well..before the days of Internet we would get the "catalog" that was the size of a small child and used by my grandma in her car to prop herself up to see over the steering wheel. When my mom got mad at us, and was prone to tossing things in our direction....the worst was the jcp catalog, you didn't want to be in that cross fire!!
Ok, so it was HUGE, it made the September issue of Vogue look like a pamphlet! But, that is what we had and we would shop from it, fold over the corner of the pages, circle the items we wanted for back to school and mom would call JCP and order.  Then, when it all came in (the most exciting part) you go to the JCP store and pick it all up:)

Now fast forward 20 years...JCP is a lot different in ways, but in others it still reminds me of the store I grew up with.
Just recently as I was on the job search for a new job...Target and JCP stood out to me, I really wanted to work at either place.  While interviewing for a couple other stores, and having to have a degree to be in the Fashion dept at Target...JCP started to look to me as the place I just HAD to work.  So, what did I do? Oh, just what any other gal that knows what she wants would do...I went after it, called the manager and inquired about my application. He was a tad taken  aback by my boldness and said he has never had someone call to "ASK for a career" before!!
I went in for a couple interviews with him and the assistant manager....stating that I just wanted to be a part of this "up and coming thing" I told them that I KNEW Jcp was the next big thing and I just had to be in on it.
With no jobs open at the time that they thought I would be happy with, they sent me on my way and told me that they would contact me if anything opened up.
Well, being not patient...after about a week..I called them again. This time, the manager told me to come asap. When I got there, he has just printed off a brand spanking new JCP position that was going to be available for applicants to apply for in a couple weeks time.
The position was for the Jcp "fashion expert" and after he read the job description to me, I simply said "That job was written for me!!"  He agreed!
With the position not even available to start yet, and I still had a few more interviews to go on. And they too, had to put it out there and interview other applicants....to see if a better fit for the job applied!

I left it up to "If it's meant to be, it will be"  Well, to make the ending short and sweet..it WAS meant to be!!  I'm loving it....the training is a month long, and by October I will start the actual job and I can not wait!!!  It will involve working with clients and helping them find the perfect clothes, shoes, and accessories for them....I'm giddy just thinking about working one on one with people and watching them walk away feeling and looking like a million bucks!

The JCP "face lift" is amazing....come by your local store or stop in ours at the Apache Mall in Rochester, MN..we would LOVE to see you!!

Here is a picture of our brand new Liz Claiborne "shop"...I could live in this one..I adore it, and so do our customers! It's SO chic..and the clothes are classic, and the best part...affordable!

A couple other of my favorites are:
~The Levi's Denim Bar..in our men's section!  Guys..you can come in and sit down and use one of the ipads that are set up to help you find your perfect pair of jeans!
~the JCP shops...both men's and women's. colorful, on-trend, classic pieces for your everyday and work wardrobe!
~Betseyville....I adore Betsey Johnson as a designer..I love her quirky style and now you can get a piece of Betsey at our JCP Betseyville shop!  Shoes, accessories, and yummy sleepwear!
~Cosmopolitan...think sexy, flirty and confident like their magazine!  shoes, bags, sleepwear, bras and panties!
More of our "Shops" include
~ibuffalo by David Britton
~Izod
~Arizona jeans co.
~Dreampop by Cynthia Rowley (for tween girls)
~DC shoe co.
~little maven by Tori Spelling (for the little fashionistas)

We also carry collections by these designers..worth a look at!!

~I "heart" Ronson by Charlotte Ronson
~Olsenboye by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen
~Mac+Jac
~Bisou Bisou
~a.n.a
~mng by Mango
~allen b. by Allen Schwartz
~nicole by Nicole Miller
~decree
~ and MUCH more......

As I continue my journey with JCP, I will keep you all up to date as to what is new and happening with the store itself as well as my fashion expert career!!  Can't wait to see you all there!

XO~E