AMAZING GUIDE TO STYLE & BEAUTY CELEBRITY PICTORIAL: APRIL BOWLBY LOCAL FASHION OCTOBER 2011 $3.95 LIVEORANGECOUNTYMAGAZINE.COM style & beauty Looking to Change Your Tune? ELECTRIC BIKES www.pedego.com/live ( 800 ) 646 - 8604. 17155 Gillette Ave. Irvine, CA. 90631 F eatures OCTOBER 2011 STYLE & BEAUTY CELEBRITY PICTORIAL: APRIL BOWLBY It’s only natural we would have the lovely and talented April Bowlby featured in our Style and Beauty issue. Interview by Damion Stein Intro by Tracy Le Photographer Daryl Henderson, www.daryl-henderson.com Fashion Stylist Devon Poer, www.devonpoer.com Makeup Artist Cristina Romeo for Polaris Cosmetics Hair Stylist Audra Tong and Erica Stoy for Studio DNA salons Location and Jewelry courtesy of: Yossi Dina of The Dina Collection 249 South Beverly Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (310) 888-8888 www.thedinacollection.com ON THE COVER & THIS PAGE April Bowlby HABERDASHER Haberdasher’s innovative personal styling and shopping service helps men dress for success. Written by Dawn Mori 20 VIDA RODRIGUEZ This month we sit down with designer, Vida Rodriguez to talk about everything fashion and her amazing journey. 40 44 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 Written by Carley Dryden 26 Soka Performing Arts Center Ranked among Top 25 Colleges in four categories - Fall 2010 Kaplan Newsweek "Finding the Right College for You" High School juniors and seniors are invited to LIONS ROAR Student Campus Days Saturday, October 22nd & November 12th 9:00 am ~ 2:00 pm Register at: www.soka.edu/lionsroar Grand Opening Season Purchase tickets online at www.performingarts.soka.edu Tuesday, October 4 St. Petersburg Symphony Xiayin Wang, pianist Alexander Titov, conductor 7:30 pm Program to Include: Weinberg Rhapsody on Moldavian Themes Prokofiev Piano Concerto No.3 Tchaikovsky Symphony No.4 SOKA UNIVERSITY PRESENTS Through January 6, 2012 At Founders Hall Art Gallery Arie A. Galles: HEARTLAND II Reflected-Light Paintings Open Monday ~ Friday 9 am ~ 5pm October 8 7th Annual Vision of Peace Gala featuring Grammy Award-winning flautist Nestor Torres Soka University Welcomes David Palmer General Manager, Soka Performing Arts Center David Palmer joins Soka University of America as the general manager of the new 1000-seat Soka Performing Arts Center at Soka University in Aliso Viejo. Palmer has programmed a Premiere Season to complement SUA’s 10th Anniversary celebration. Mr. Palmer joins the Soka University team after 19 successful years with the Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts at Whittier College. STudy AbRoAd CoRneR elizabeth Guthrey in buenos Aires, Argentina May 2011 I was amazed by the volunteer work of ‘Un techo para mi pais’ (a roof for my country) in the province of Buenos Aires. The NGO has volunteer groups throughout Latin America and provides levels of social support, the first of which is building emergency houses. My friend Mieko joined me and 700 other young Argentines over one weekend to build 72 emergency houses in a variety of poor neighborhoods. Every person was passionate and we all united as a team. Study Abroad has allowed me to live within a foreign culture, to learn and to share my heart of global citizenship. The Study Abroad experience has deepened my desire to create opportunities for a more equitable world. Elizabeth Guthrey, Class of 2012 TOUR SOKA TODAY! Mon – Sat, 10 am and 2 pm Soka University, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 www.soka.edu • www.soka.edu/directions • info@soka.edu • 949.480.4000 Founders Hall Art Gallery and Recreation Center 5:30 pm Thursday, October 13 Deaf Jam 7:00 pm, Pauling Hall 216 info@soka.edu Panel discussion follows Sunday, October 23 Water is rising: Music and Dance amid Climate Change 3:00 pm Official Airline Sponsor Soka BluePort Jazz Festival OctOBer 28 ~ 30 Featuring Trio da Paz Friday ~ 7:30 pm Sat. ~ 3:00 & 7:30 pm Sunday ~ 3:00 pm Soka Performing Arts Center www.performingarts.soka.edu tickets@soka.edu • 949.480.4ART (4278) Tickets now on sale Study Abroad for all undergraduates included in tuition NEXT MONTH BEST OF ORANGE COUNTY PUBLISHER Susan Magnall ART DIRECTOR Eric Park DISTRIBUTION MANAGER David Starr COPY EDITOR Dorothy Bray FASHION EDITOR Devon Poer INTERNS Mary Ellen Kubik, Tracy Le, Danielle Phan, Amanda Warlick CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Daniel Albert, Tyler Andrews, Dalia Van Den Boogard, Carley Dryden, Samantha Gonzaga, Marvin Johnson, Ali Lerman, Aubrey Loots, Dawn Mori, Tova Morrison, Joanne Pittman, Ryan Ritchie, Cheryl Scott, Peter Surowski, Eric Wiener PHOTOGRAPHERS Matt Fukushima, Daryl Henderson, Wes Kroninger, Alex Magnall, Chris Robertson, Alex Serrano, Lily Stein, Hartono Tai, Taka and Nicole Tsubaki DIRECTOR OF SALES Damion Stein SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Michael Cupic, Jessica Jahangiri, Mary Oliveras, Brett Potter ADVERTISING 949.863.1114 sales@livemags.net SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE (USA) Mailed directly to your home or business: 12 issues — $24 • 24 issues — $36 • 36 issues — $45 Subscribe online at liveorangecountymagazine.com or send subscription request along with payment to: Live Orange County Magazine 17951 Sky Park Circle #35K Irvine, CA 92614 PUBLISHED BY LIVE Publishing, Inc. 17951 Sky Park Circle #35K – Irvine, CA 92614 Phone: 949.863.1114 Fax: 949.863.1762 E-mail: info@liveorangecountymagazine.com Web site: liveorangecountymagazine.com Twitter: @LiveOC Become a fan on Facebook © 2011 Copyright All Rights Reserved. Live Orange County Magazine is published 12 times a year for distribution throughout Orange County and the surrounding neighborhoods. Statements, opinions and points of view expressed by the writers and advertisers are their own and do not necessarily represent those of the publishers, editor or Live Publishing, Inc.. Although Live Orange County Magazine has made every effort to authenticate all claims and guarantees offered by advertisers in this magazine, we cannot assume liability for any products or services advertised herein. No part of the magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter. All real estate offerings are subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, changes or withdrawal without notice. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act and Equal Housing Opportunities Act. 66 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 Epic. That is what we deliver every day. Whether you are putting on a large fashion show, or an important corporate event, you can expect only the best lighting, audio, and video experience in Southern California. We listen to our clients’ needs and provide them with visual concepts to help them make the right decisions for their events. L I G H T I N G | A U D I O | V I D E O | S T A G E | Corporate Events Concert Systems Fashion Shows Private Events System Design R E N T A L S For more information call 714.545.1439 or visit www.digitalsoundps.com 2168 Michelson Drive, Irvine, CA 92612 D epartments 10 CALENDAR 12 LIVE EVENTS 18 MONTH IN REVIEW BEAUTY FOOD&WINE 49 A TASTE Dining Guide It’s hard to decide where to eat, let alone look for new restaurants. We help you get a taste of what’s available. By Tova Morrison STYLE 34 COMPREHENSIVE SKIN CARE FOR TODAY’S SKIN GOALS Written by Daniel Albert This month LIVE Orange County gives you the scoop on beauty products that truly work. 50 RESTAURANT REVIEW Casa Ranchero Written by Eric Wiener Photographed by Matt Fukushima 24 SUCCESSFULLY DRESSING Written by Joanne Pittman Please remove ‘dress for success’ from your vocabulary. I would prefer to have you consider the concept of successfully dressing oneself. TRAVEL&LEISURE 36 FALL HAIR IDEAS Written by Aubrey Loots 38 10 BEAUTY MUST HAVES By Devon Poer Here are some must have survival tools to combat any fashion jungle! 30 FALL ACCESSORIES By Devon Poer 47 LOCAL DESIGN INNOVATORS Written By Samantha Gonzaga # DATE DAY TIME EVENT GUARANTEED Tue 9/20 1pm & 6pm No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day A Wed 9/21 1pm & 6pm No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day B Thu 9/22 1pm & 6pm No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day C EVERY EVENT 1 OPT RE-BUY Day 2 Friday @ 6pm (will play till 9 players) Final Saturday @ 2pm at LIVE@THEBIKE 2 Fri 9/23 4pm No Limit Holdem *Quantum Reload $40,000 $50,000 3 Sat 9/24 4pm No Limit Holdem *Quantum Reload $20,000 4 Sun 9/25 2pm No Limit Deepstack 18,000 chips NO REBUY $10,000 5 Mon 9/26 1pm No Limit Holdem (1 opt Re-buy) $10,000 6 Mon 9/26 6pm Omaha 8 or Better NO REBUY $10,000 7 Tue 9/27 1pm No Limit Holdem (1 opt Re-buy) $10,000 8 Tue 9/27 6pm No Limit All-in or Fold Re-entry first 2 hours $10,000 9 Wed 9/28 1pm No Limit Holdem (1 opt Re-buy) $15,000 10 Wed 9/28 4pm H.O.R.S.E. (1 opt Re-buy) $10,000 11 Thu 9/29 1pm No Limit Holdem (1 opt Re-buy) $20,000 12 Thu 9/29 6pm No Limit Holdem (1 opt Re-buy) 1 64 AT THE BIKE 54 RELAXATION, REJUVENATION, RESTORATION Written by Tracy Le The R Spa- a winning combination of fitness and beautification The Hunt for Big Oktober Written by Daniel Albert The Bike gears up for the 3rd installment of their mega millions series during Big Poker Oktober OKTOBER MEGA MILLION SERIES III 13 Fri Sat Sun Mon $100,000 9/30 10/1 10/2 10/3 1pm & 6pm 1pm & 6pm 1pm & 6pm 1pm & 6pm No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day A No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day B No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day C No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day D ONE MILLION BUY-IN $50 + $15 $50 + $15 $50 + $15 $100 + $25 $100 + $25 $100 + $25 $60 + $15 $100 + $25 $60 + $15 $100 + $25 $60 + $15 $100 + $25 $60 + $15 $100 + $25 $125 + $25 $125 + $25 $125 + $25 $125 + $25 10 OCTOBER 2011 STYLE & BEAUTY ART&ENTERTAINMENT 14 AT THE CENTER Written by Daniel Albert Photos Courtesy of Segerstrom Center for the Arts The Segerstrom Center Premieres Two Classic Shows Reimagined. 62 HOT DOG, COOL CUSTOMER Written by Daniel Albert Photographed by Sarah M. Bardowell The Derby hosts the 3rd annual West Coast Hot Dog Eating Championship FACES&PLACES 16 8.5 QUESTIONS Jordana Brewster Interview by Damion Stein This month LIVE tries to catch up with Fast Five Beauty Jordana Brewster. BUSINESS&MONEY 60 LOCAL EVENTS 56 COMMUNITY HERO Taste Of Brews Written by Ali Lerman Photo Courtesy of Taste of Brews On October 15th, the Taste of Brews Beer Tasting Festival is featuring beers from around the world. 58 BUSINESS PROFILE Blue Eyed Girl Written by Cheryl Scott Photographed by Lily Stein Blue Eyed Girl is on a roll, with four stores opened in just five years. Working Wardrobes Written by Dawn Mori Photos Courtesy of Working Wardrobes Working Wardrobes continues to bring professional clothing, career-readiness training, and hope to people in need throughout Orange County and Southern California. 66 LAST VIEW CALENDAR SPECIAL EVENTS ARTS OCT 09 “The Big Squeeze” 3rd Annual Accordian Festival OC Market Place Costa Mesa 10am-4pm ocmarketplace.com OCT 01 OCT 06 OCT 22 Irvine Global Village Festival Food Truck Fare Kings of Dance Bill Barber Memorial Park, Irvine 10am-6pm cityofirvine.org/globalvillage OC Fairgrounds, Costa Mesa 11am-2pm Admission & Parking: Free Facebook.com/OCFair Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa 2pm scfta.org OCT 15 Taste of Brews Lantern Bay Park, Dana Point Visit website for event times: tasteofbrews.com 10 10 OCT 15 OCT 15 OCT 29 & 30 Miss Newport Beach Pageant Lord of the Rings in Concert Steven Sondheim and Friends Sutra, Costa Mesa 3pm-8pm newportbeachpageants.com Honda Center, Anaheim 7:30pm lordoftheringsinconcert.com Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa 2pm scfta.org OCT 29 OCT 15 ONGOING Monster Massive Candace Paige 1 Year Anniversary Celebration Laguna Art Walk Oak Canyon Park, Lake Forest 6pm monstermassive.com Candace Paige, Newport Beach 10am-6pm shopcandacepaige.com Every First Thursday 6-9pm Along PCH, Laguna Beach firstthursdayartwalk.com STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 FAMILY/LIVING 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano myspace.com/thecoachhouse • thecoachhouse.com FUNDRAISERS OCTOBER BIG D & THE KID’S TABLE 10/7 OCT 08 OCT 02 41st Annual Silverado Country Fair Stomp Out Breast Cancer Silverado Community Center Silverado Canyon 9am silveradocanyonnews.com Strawberry Farms Golf Club Irvine 1pm-5pm beawarefoundation.org FOUNTAINS OF WAYNE 10/14 PAULA POUNDSTONE 10/27 UPCOMING SHOWS OCT 06 Keep the Promise: A Wine Tasting Benefit for The Wooden Floor THE LEMONHEADS 10/28 Newport Beach 6pm saintjosephballet.org OCT 30 TOAD THE WET SPROCKET 11/3 “Freak Out!” 14th Annual Trick or Treat Festival & Halloween Hearse Show and Procession Orange County Marketplace Costa Mesa 9am ocmarketplace.com FILTER 11/4 OCT 31 OCT 16 Family Autism Event Kids Who Care Foundation: Pet Fashion Show Pretend City Children’s City Irvine 5:30pm pretendcity.org OC Great Park Irvine 6pm kidswhocareclub.org STEEL PULSE 11/12 10/01 CASH’D OUT 10/02 THE ZOMBIES 10/06 PLAIN WHITE T’S / THE SUMMER SET 10/07 BIG D & THE KID’S TABLE / THE HAVE NOTS 10/08 CIRCA (feat. Members of YES) 10/13 ACOUSTIC ALCHEMY 10/14 FOUNTAINS OF WAYNE 10/15 BROTHER 10/16 SENIOR COMEDY AFTERNOONS 10/19 LEON RUSSELL 10/21 DREAD ZEPPELIN 10/22 MELISSA MANCHESTER 10/23 DIANE SCHUUR 10/27 PAULA POUNDSTONE 10/28 THE LEMONHEADS 10/29 GARY SINISE & THE LT. DAN BAND 10/30 ANVIL 11/03 TOAD THE WET SPROCKET 11/04 FILTER 11/11 MOTHER HIPS / BROKEDOWN IN BAKERSFIELD 11/12 STEEL PULSE 11/13 STRUNZ & FARAH 11/17 ROBERT CRAY / SHAWN JONES 11/18 JAY & SILENT BOB GET OLD w/ Jason Mewes & Kevin Smith 11/19 LED ZEPAGAIN 11/25 THE TUBES 11/26 BERLIN 12/01 LOS LOBOS 12/08 PETER MURPHY / SHE WANTS REVENGE 12/14 X (all Original Members) 12/16 GARY “HO HO” HOEY 12/17 SHAWN COLVIN 12/22 “A CHRISTMAS TIME TOGETHER” (Jadon Lavik, Evan Wickham, The Pawn Shop Kings, and more) 12/31 New Years Eve With DADA 01/13 PAUL COTTON of Poco 01/14 COLIN HAY BAND 01/15 PAT TRAVERS 01/22 BLUES HARP BLOWOUT feat. John Mayall, Mark Hummel, Billy Boy Arnold, Curtis Salgado & Sugar Ray Norcia Order tickets by calling: 877-435-9849 M-F 7am-6pm SAT-SUN 10am-6pm LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 11 LIVE EVENTS 12 12 OCT 01 OCT 05-16 OCT 06 OCT 07 OCT 07 Civic Tour: Blink 182 Shrek The Musical Enrique Iglesias Wonders of the Younger Tour Big D & The Kid’s Table Honda Center, Anaheim Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa Staples Center, Los Angeles El Rey Theatre, Los Angeles The Coach House, San Juan Capistrano OCT 08 OCT 14 OCT 14 OCT 15 JUL 15 OCT 15 Tiesto Ducks vs Sharks (Home Opener) Fountains of Wayne Incubus Billy Idol Home Depot Center, Carson Honda Center, Anaheim The Coach House, San Juan Capistrano Verizon Amphitheatre, Irvine Fantasy Springs Casino, Indio OCT 21 OCT 22 OCT 22 OCT 28 OCT 28 & 29 Chicago Don Rickles Social Distortion The Lemonheads Tiger Army Fantasy Springs Casino, Indio The Grove, Anaheim Verizon Amphitheatre, Irvine The Coach House, San Juan Capistrano The Grove, Anaheim STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 Plus - fin whales, 3 types of dolphins, sea lions and more! Daily Day Trips on our amazing Catamaran with large viewing deck Sunset Whale Watch Daily 5-7pm SAVE 40% off adult tickets with online booking- use promo LIVE OC Not valid on 1/2 price days or holidays To check availability and buy tickets: 800.979.3370 or online at DanaWharf.com INDOOR KART RACING 1-888-K1-KARTS K1SPEED.com CORPORATE EVENTS • ARRIVE & DRIVE • BIRTHDAY & BACHELOR PARTIES CARLSBAD • IRVINE • ANAHEIM • ONTARIO • TORRANCE • SEATTLE BeerGarden AT THE ENTER Double the Fun WRITTEN BY DANIEL ALBERT n 2001 a great big ogre with green skin and a wisecracking donkey bumbled their way into our hearts. Shrek became an instant classic and it was only a matter of time before the magic of the movie made its way onto the stage. In 1994 we were amazed by another type of entertainment on the stage; dance. ’94 was the year Irish step dancing was put on the map, as Riverdance debuted at the Eurovision Song Contest, a moment that is still considered significant in Irish Culture. Flash forward to the year 2011 and it’s easy to see that Shrek and Riverdance are still stunning audiences. Amazingly, these two shows are available under one roof as The Segerstrom Center for the Arts moves into its Fall schedule of shows. To lead off the month of October, SCFTA is proud to announce the arrival of a very special and very big guest. DreamWorks Theatricals and Networks Presentations, LLC have announced that Shrek the Musical will play Segerstrom Center for the Arts, for two weeks only, October 4 – 16. This new musical which opened on Broadway in December 2009 is based on the story and characters from William Steig’s book “Shrek”!, as well as the DreamWorks Animation film "Shrek", the first chapter of the Shrek movie series. Shrek the Musical tells the story of a swamp-dwelling ogre who goes on a life-changing adventure to reclaim the deed to his land. Joined by a wisecracking donkey, this unlikely hero fights a fearsome dragon, rescues a feisty princess and learns that real friendship and true love aren’t only found in fairy tales. “We are thrilled to send Shrek the Musical to theaters across the country,” said Bill Damaschke, President of DreamWorks Theatricals, “and for American families to experience their favorite ogre and fairy tale creatures live on stage.” This one-of-a kind experience features a book and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize® winner David Lindsay-Abaire (Rabbit Hole, Good People) and music by 14 14 The Segerstrom Center Premieres Two Classic Shows Reimagined STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 AT THE CENTER Olivier Award-winner Jeanine Tesori (Thoroughly Modern Millie, Caroline and Change). In addition the musical sets and costumes are based on the Tony Award® winning designs by Tim Hatley (Private Lives, Spamalot), and the choreography by Josh Prince (The Bridge Project, The Jerry Springer Opera). ART & ENTERTAINMENT | As the month comes to a close and visions of Ogres and fairies fade from the memories of patrons, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts will bring in the original international dance phenomenon on their farewell tour Riverdance. This very limited engagement proves that few shows have touched audiences like Riverdance, a thunderous celebration of joyful music, song and dance that has tapped its way onto the world stage thrilling millions of people around the globe. Did I mention this was a limited engagement? Riverdance will play Segerstrom Center in Orange County October 28 – 30 for five performances only! An innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song, Riverdance draws on Irish traditions and the combined talents of the performers propel Irish dancing music to the present day, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures. This extraordinarily unique show features an international company, all performing to the magic of Bill Whelan’s music. Composed by Bill Whelan, produced by Moya Doherty and directed by John McColgan, to date this show –now in its 16th phenomenal year– has played over 10,000 performances, and has been seen by more than 22 million people in over 350 venues throughout 40 countries across four continents. The group has traveled well over 600,000 miles (or to the moon and back!) and has played to a worldwide television audience of two billion which helped them sell over three million copies of the Grammy® Award-winning CD, helping it become certified Platinum in the U.S. Whether you’re at the center to escape into fantasy land or there to get a first hand glimpse of Ireland, October is a month that has a little bit of something for everybody. It’s rare that you can fit two huge shows on one stage, but Segerstrom Center for the Arts has brought in two giant hits for all to enjoy, making the month of October doubly fun! For more information or to purchase tickets feel free to visit Segerstrom Center online at SCFTA.org, by calling (714) 556-2787 or at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa. For inquiries about group ticket discounts, call the Group Services office at (714) 755-0236. Lose 30 Pounds in 30 Days And KEEP it off! A SlimMe TM PRESCRIPTION HCG Rapid Weight Loss Program Fast, Safe & Effective Costs about as much as a pre-packaged-food diet but you will lose 4 times as much as weight If you are ready to look and feel your best call 949.497.6644 for a Free Consultation. HCG for A Slim Me TM 1502 North Coast Hwy • Laguna Beach 92651 • www.HCGforaslimme.com LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 15 8 Jordana Brewster 1/2 W QUESTIONS with... ith a B.A. in English from Yale University alongside having been officially deemed “hot” in multiple publications over the past years,brains and beauty is a valid understatement when it comes to this Fast and Furious starlet, Jordana Brewster. For our October issue highlighting all things Style and Beauty, it’s only appropriate to have a woman such as Jordana contribute both her credentials and charisma. Being fluent in Portuguese and having grown up around the world, Brewster has successfully remained faithful to her long time dream of becoming an actress (on both the big and small screen. And though most might know her as the girl that goes vroom vroom, aside from sharing with us some real behind-the-steering wheel moments, Brewster also gives us the scoop on how she maintains a balanced busy life, the return to her upcoming soap re-boot and what it involves to be, quote, a “badass.” 16 LIVE: You were born in Panama City, where did you grow up and what was your life like growing up? Jordana Brewster: I was born in Panama City but grew in London then Brazil then New York. It was fun—it was good. It was me and my little sister and growing up in Brazil was awesome. It’s especially cool (though I didn’t appreciate it at the time). You’d go to school then straight to the beach or straight to the pool. That’s something I didn’t have in New York, so Brazil was one of my favorites. LIVE: We read that your mother appeared in Sports Illustrated, and was modeling or entertainment— something you always dreamt of doing? Brewster: Yes, she was on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition in 1978, I believe. And ever since I was a kid, I always wanted to be an actress. It was always something I really wanted. When I was 15, I came on the soap As The World Turns and that’s how I got started. LIVE: You’ve made quite an interesting journey from TV to movies, do you have a preference and how did that transition take place? Brewster: You know, I love both, they both have perks. I do love the pacing of TV, I love the sense of family. It’s interesting that’s what I get in Fast, is that we get to see each other so often and we get to make these movies every couple of years which is so fortunate and we develop a sense of family. We usually work with the same producers and director—with Justin, STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 LIVE: Speaking of beauty, you’ve a regular reoccurring role on Maxim’s Top 100, what’s your feeling towards that? Brewster: It’s so flattering, I love it—I really do. It’s fun being a part of it and you can’t knock it. LIVE: What’s currently on the horizon for you right now? Any projects you’re involved and excited about? Brewster: The new Dallas—well the continuation of Dallas and it’s going to debut on TNT in 2012 in the summer and we start shooting in a couple of weeks and I’ll be going down to Dallas so I’m really excited about that. | Brewster: I’ve been using Kate Somerville for years and it works really, really well for me. Her tinted moisturizer, which is SPF 55, feels like you’ve got a tan when you put it on, that’s one of my favorites right now. FACES & PLACES LIVE: Are there any new products that you’re excited about on the beauty side? I know our female readership would love to know what might be worth checking out. 8.5 QUESTIONS stunning. Who else…I think someone who doesn’t just follow trends and who mixes it up, so I really love Diane Kruger’s style as well. LIVE: And what is your role? the same AD and second AD, so it’s the same sense of family you develop with a Television show— so I really love that with TV and I get the same thing with Fast which is awesome. LIVE: You have had a huge success with The Fast and Furious franchise, most recently with Fast Five. What was that like? Brewster: I play Elena Ramos and she is in a love triangle between Bobby Ewing’s son Christopher and J.R.’s son John Ross Jr.,so it’s really fun. She’s also an oil engineer so she’s just a badass character. LIVE: We can’t wait to check it out! Thank you Jordana for taking some time out and chatting with us, and good luck with your new project. Brewster: Not a problem, thank you! Brewster: It’s been phenomenal. I think I’m so fortunate to be able to work with people I really love. And to work with someone like Justin who I worked with on Annapolis, and Fast Four and now Fast Five again so you develop a “beforehand” with people you work with often — that’s amazing. LIVE: You have some incredible stunts in that films. How much driving did you actually do in the making of these movies? Brewster: I don’t drive stick, so I took one lesson in a parking garage in Los Angeles, which didn’t go so well. The driving instructor wanted me to go out and I said,“No, I’ll just keep going up and down this parking garage” because I was scared. But In terms of running and jumping off of roofs, I did myself. The driving was a lot of green screen, so it’s kind of fake driving, which is also fun you get to look badass and kind of fake it. LIVE: In being a part of that series, has it changed your feelings about cars? What kind of car do you drive? Brewster: I drive a Range Rover Sport, which I love. And yeah it has. I am a bit more into cars. My husband is super into cars. I also love driving fast and you know I’ve gotten a couple of tickets in the past (Laughs)—I totally see the appeal in it. LIVE: I hear you meditate, how did you get into that? Brewster:I meditate twice a day for twenty minutes. Its something called Vedic meditation and it really helps you to de-stress, engage and to remain present, especially now-a-days. It’s so easy to be glued to your iPhone or your computer, or constantly doing something and multitasking—it helps settle the mind I’ve been doing it for a year and a half and I really love it. LIVE: This is our Style and Beauty Issue, and you definitely embody beauty —who are some people you feel also embody style and beauty? Brewster: I love Cameron Diaz’s style; I love and think Demi Moore is LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 17 ` MONTHIN REVIEW LO C A L & N AT I O N A L WRITTEN BY TOVA MORRISON 9/11 REMEMBERED The 10th anniversary of the 9/11 World Trade Center and Pentagon terrorist attacks were commemorated throughout Orange County in scores of organized, solemn gatherings. The Orange County Fire Authority held 25-minute Remembrance Services at the flag poles of each OC fire station in every city in the county. These services were attended by fire fighters, police officers, emergency medical service professionals and area residents. Remember 9/11 The Ride, a charity motorcycle motorcade for riders, took place along the Pacific Coast Highway in the afternoon of September 11. The Ride began on Santiago Canyon Road in Orange and ended at McKenna’s on the Bay in Alamitos Bay, Long Beach. The ceremony included speeches from LBFD Chief Alan Patalano, LBFD firefighter and main organizer for the event, Gary Biggerstaff, music and nighttime fireworks. The Ride’s community ceremony opened with a flyover by pilots of F-18 Hornets. THE PLAYGROUND FESTIVAL A much smaller than expected audience of Generation Y partiers hit up the Playground Festival, a multistage music gathering that took place on September 3-4 in Irvine’s Hidden Valley park and was hosted by comedian Nick Cannon. The festival had a bounty of interactive games; a video gaming station, a laser tag arena, a miniature golf course and several live art installations were among the diversions. Musical performances ranged from hip-hip and electronica to alternative rock, but there were an unusual number of artists who played hooky on the festival. Rap artist the Game, who was supposed to headline on Saturday, didn’t show up. Also absent were metal rockers Steel Panther, hip-hoppers the New Boyz and Kendrick Lamar from Compton. G NEW TERMINAL FOR JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT SO. CAL., ARIZONA AND MEXICO POWER OUTAGE A huge power outage swept through Orange County, San Diego, Mexico and Arizona on September 8 and 9 which left 7 million people in blackout conditions. The source of the electricity shutdown was a Yuma, Arizona, substation equipment swap that was improperly performed. The Federal Electricity Commission of Mexico reported that nearly 3.5 million residents of Baja California lost power. Officials in Tijuana stepped up military security around government buildings. In San Diego and Orange County, traffic jam conditions arose due to the lack of traffic lights. In Arizona, roughly 56,000 people were without electricity. Complications in sewage pump failure included the closure of San Diego beaches when untreated waste was dumped into the ocean. U.S. POSTAL SERVICE REVAMPING The U.S. Postal Service has to close down offices across the nation to save its budget. Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe stated to Congress that the Postal Service is facing a $10 billion loss for the year because of a steady decrease in mail deliveries. Also affecting the financial picture for the national delivery service is the amount of government-required retirement payments retirees receive annually by September of each year. The White House, in response, included a financial crisis plan for the Postal Service in the September version of the broad-scale deficit bill. Ending Saturday mail deliveries may result in the new policies. NORTHEAST HURRICANE What began as an expansion project in 2006 for the Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee flooded the Northeast and caused John Wayne Airport came to the evacuation of over 100,000 people throughout New York, Maryland, fruition on September 8 with Virginia, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Highways were closed due to the the opening of a new airport rising Susquehanna River in New York. The Conowingo Dam’s floodgates terminal for commuters. The were opened by emergency workers in Maryland to ease the pressure of second new commuter terthe storm’s outpouring. In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the Delaware minal is due to open in two 18 River rose to a dangerous height and it carried with it wreckage fragments months. The recently opened from the storms in downstream currents. Several Massachusetts, Rhode terminal, and its correspondIsland, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Maine, North Carolina, Vermont and ing gates, is located in the the island of Puerto Rico were severely hit by the hurricane in late August North end of the airport, adjacent to the 405 freeway. Other renovations and and September. FEMA sent the National Guard to all areas needing emeradditions that the airport has in the works include a new parking garage with gency assistance and The Department of Health and Human Services’ electric signs that indicate parking availability, snack and beverage areas, Disaster Medical Assistance Team opened disaster centers for evacuees more aircraft parking and a power facility. The cost of the renovations and in all states affected by the storms. construction is set at $543 million. 18 18 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 Style : r e h s a d r e Hab Where Clothes Make the Man WRITTEN BY DAWN MORI PHOTOS COURTESY OF HABERDASHER Haberdasher’s innovative personal styling and shopping service helps men dress for success. A s a successful commercial real estate executive, Justin Hodgdon knew a smart business wardrobe was an essential part of his professional world. He desperately needed to refresh the suits in his closet but with a busy schedule, he neither had the time to shop nor did he want the hassle. “I loathe shopping but actually like to keep current,” he said. His solution came in the form of Haberdasher, an innovative online and inperson styling and shopping service that helps men in Southern California build customized wardrobes. Now Hodgdon has a closet of elegant European-cut suits and a professional relationship with a Haberdasher personal stylist. It was the result of a surprisingly easy process which was personalized, organized, and efficient. A detailed phone interview led to a meeting with Haberdasher stylist Kerry Folkerts, who coordinated a personal fitting at a local store that included a dressing room full of clothes. Within an hour, Hodgdon had decided on a new wardrobe and within a week, his fitted clothes were delivered to his home. “For us, it’s not whether men can or can’t shop for themselves, but more about finding the most intelligent and effective way for men to shop,” said Haberdasher co-founder Ted Cordova. “There are plenty of guys with great 20 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 HABERDASHER | STYLE FEATURE “ I want my clients to look their best, so I am very honest when I tell them what looks good and what doesn’t.” — Kerry Folkerts, Haberdasher Personal Stylist. style. For these guys, we are there if they don’t have the time or desire to shop… [and] there are many guys, ourselves included, who can and will benefit from an expert eye.” Cordova and his business partner Ryan Schwartz founded Haberdasher earlier this year to help men navigate their way through a seemingly infinite number of clothing choices. Haberdasher’s personal stylists shop with or for their clients while working within their budgets and provide everything from an expert second opinion to overall fashion guidance. “They don’t know what looks good on them and how things should fit. I want my clients to look their best, so I am very honest when I tell them what looks good and what doesn’t,” said Folkerts, a Haberdasher stylist. Like all Haberdasher stylists, Folkerts brings a professional expertise to her work. A Chicago native with a background in fashion and merchandising management, she has previous experience as a fashion show and photo shoot stylist, an account executive representing various clothing lines, and as a personal shopper and assistant to a celebrity family. It has been her last three years as a personal stylist, however, that has honed her passion and knowledge of men’s fashion with advice that begins at the basics— how a man’s clothing fits. “Many guys are not wearing the right size. You can have a great suit or a nice pair of jeans, but if the fit isn’t right, it’s not going to look good,” she said. Many of Folkerts’ clients discover their correct sizes after their consultation. She also tries to introduce men to different styles and teaches them ways to layer and combine different pieces. It is all part of a straightforward service that is easy to access and use. Interested clients first visit Haberdasher’s website (haberdasherstyle.com) and complete an online form. Within 24 hours they receive an email from a Haberdasher stylist to setup a free consultation to discuss their personal style, including what they wear to work, on weekends, what stores they shop at, and their favorite brands. H aberdasher also offers an online interactive style finder so clients can select looks they like, giving stylists a sense of their style and what clothing they consider comfortable. At the end of the conversation, the stylist then has what Cordova calls “a game plan to build out their wardrobe.” Folkerts shops for her clients at department stores and boutiques, eschewing online shopping so she can see and feel the clothes she selects. Haberdasher has partnerships with a variety of boutiques which provide professional relationships and stylist discounts. Their stylists also have an insider’s knowledge. “Since I am shopping all the time for my clients, I know when all the best sales are going on and when new merchandise comes in,” noted Folkerts. She then supervises an in-person fitting, ensuring each piece of clothing looks and feels right in terms of fit, color and style for individual pieces and overall outfits. Folkerts also will exchange and return items that do not make the cut. As fittings can take place in a store or at a client’s home or office, the process is effortless and time efficient. Clients also have the option to shop with their stylists to become more savvy buyers. It adds up to a process that emphasizes service and expertise over a more traditional retail experience. Unlike retail sales clerks who may be paid on commission, Haberdasher stylists are not paid by the amount a client spends on clothes. The service works on a credit-based per hour system, with one credit equaling one hour at $100. LIVE MAGAZINE | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 21 “Like any highly personalized service, you never want a client to worry about the clock,” said Cordova. “If they’ve only booked three hours and they want to continue shopping, no problem. If they pay for eight hours and they only shop for three, they have five hours (or credits) remaining to use anytime they choose.” clients to be comfortable and love the clothing I select for them… my goal is to make them look and feel great and have fun doing it.” If Cordova and Schwartz sound as if they know exactly what their clients need, it is because they were the original audience for Haberdasher’s service. Cordova and Schwartz know that helping anyone wear the right clothes means a head-to-toe transformation. They are currently expanding into San Diego and plan to launch HaberdashHER, a personal styling service for women, by the end of the year. Until then, they are thrilled to provide a service to help men live confidently. Cordova is a successful entrepreneur who started and developed several marketing and advertising agencies. Schwartz, an equally successful director of commercials and promotional videos, holds a Masters in Film Production from the University of Southern California Film School. In 2006, they formed The Incite Group, a full-service marketing agency in Hermosa Beach. “No matter what, our goal is to save our clients time and money while helping them live more confidently in their daily lives,” said Cordova. “That is what it’s really about and what we ultimately love about this business: serving others. Whether we are helping someone get ready for a new job, interview, important date, or special occasion, we really just want to help guys look the part for their life. It was at the conclusion of a business presentation to a fashion apparel client when Schwartz became conscious of his seemingly underdressed wardrobe of khakis and a short-sleeved white button-down shirt. Noting Cordova’s more stylish appearance, Schwartz felt the need to step up his game. haberdasherstyle.com www.facebook.com/haberdasherstyle Asking his business partner how he always looked so well put together, Cordova shared his secret that he asked a female friend to shop for him. Within 24 hours the creative duo was brainstorming and Haberdasher was born. Now Cordova and Schwartz are not the only ones who benefit from expert fashion advice. The result which comes from wearing the right clothes was the payoff for Haberdasher client Hodgdon, who regularly consults with stylist Folkerts for any new wardrobe choices. “Everyone feels better when they are put together especially in the business environment—it certainly gives you confidence,” said Hodgdon. Folkerts knows that change in confidence firsthand. “The most gratifying part of my job is seeing my client’s face when they look at themselves in an outfit that they love,” she said. “I want all of my be ess ent ials Hab erd ash er rec om me nds the se me n’s war dro W hat classic pieces should a well-dressed man always have in his closet? Haberdasher Personal Stylist Kerry Folkerts recommends these must-have items as the foundation for any stylish wardrobe. • Jeans that fit well (at least two pairs): One casual, comfortable pair and one dark wash denim you can dress up with a button-down shirt and jacket. • Great pair of slip-on loafers: They are comfortable and easy to take on and off. And they look great with jeans, slacks and even shorts. Folkerts also recommends these must-have items for Fall. • Navy or black suit: Every man needs at least one suit. Start out with a basic navy or black adding different colors and patterns as your suit collection grows. Even if you do not need to wear a suit for work, you never know when you will need one for an interview or a wedding. • Thin cardigan: Great over a T-shirt or button down shirt. Also looks great layered under a jacket. • Classic white button-down shirt: A staple you can wear with any tie or suit. • Dark raw denim: These can be dressed up or down. • Khaki and gray pants: These will add variety to your wardrobe in place of jeans. • Nice watch: A great accessory that completes a look. 22 • Black and brown belt: A reversible belt is functional so the right color will match whatever shoes you wear. • Tweed jacket or sportcoat: A traditional classic. • Chukka boots: These ankle-length lace-up boots have been around since the 1940s. • Fun colorful socks: Striped or argyle—they add a pop of color to a suit or any outfit. STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 RESTAURANT REVIEW | DATE DAY TIME EVENT GUARANTEED Tue 9/20 1pm & 6pm No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day A Wed 9/21 1pm & 6pm No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day B Thu 9/22 1pm & 6pm No Limit Holdem Re-Entry Day C EVERY EVENT 1 OPT RE-BUY Day 2 Friday @ 6pm (will play till 9 players) Final Saturday @ 2pm at LIVE@THEBIKE 2 Fri 9/23 4pm No Limit Holdem *Quantum Reload $40,000 $50,000 3 Sat 9/24 4pm No Limit Holdem *Quantum Reload $20,000 4 Sun 9/25 2pm No Limit Deepstack 18,000 chips NO REBUY $10,000 5 Mon 9/26 1pm No Limit Holdem (1 opt Re-buy) $10,000 6 Mon 9/26 6pm Omaha 8 or Better NO REBUY $10,000 7 Tue 9/27 1pm No Limit Holdem (1 opt Re-buy) $10,000 8 Tue 9/27 6pm No Limit All-in or Fold Re-entry first 2 hours $10,000 9 Wed 9/28 1pm No Limit Holdem (1 opt Re-buy) $15,000 10 Wed 9/28 4pm H.O.R.S.E. 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All promotions and jackpots: no purchase necessary. See Official Rules at the Welcome Center. I.D may be required to receive any payment. Residents of foreign countries without a U.S. tax treaty and non-residents of California will be subject to withholding. Tax form W2G will be issued to all players winning $5,000 or more. Monies collected LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011for bonus chips will be applied to admin fee. Please gamble responsibly. 1-800-Gambler. 23 DRESSING Written By Joanne Pittman 24 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 Most people want to be understood. A conflicting message blocks opportunities for understanding. You can look amazing and still be incongruent with your intended message. Looking good is irrelevant. Creating an image that is authentic and appropriate to you is the true objective. It requires a level of expertise and talent to understand and translate one’s story. Our society has become quick to assess, decide and act; often relying on perception. Within three seconds of meeting someone, we are capable of creating an entire story about them simply by what we see. Because approximately eighty percent of the population are visual learners, most people believe what they see, not necessarily what they hear. Offering a point of difference and a clear message supported by our image are key components in creating rapport. In a competitive market place, one cannot afford to have a first impression ‘disconnect’ with a prospective client or the prospective talent they hope to attract. SUCCESSFULLY DRESSING | STYLE D ress for success. For me, this is akin to fingernails on the chalkboard. It evokes memories of an obsolete, cookie-cutter answer birthed in the 1980’s which outlined the quintessential business image for men and women. Please remove ‘dress for success’ from your vocabulary. I would prefer to have you consider the concept of successfully dressing oneself. Whether you are working in a business casual environment or a suit and tie environment, understanding the nuances of image can greatly enhance one’s ability to be more productive. For over twenty-two years, I have worked in the image and fashion industry. I am often astounded at the various mindsets which compel people to purchase clothing that does not serve them well. When working with our corporate clients and presenting workshops, it is a great pleasure to help organizations grow their presence by teaching some fundamental elements of creating image. The objective is to help groups and individuals understand that they are not simply getting dressed. They are authoring a story. It is being read by everyone with whom they come into contact. The manner in which an ensemble is created is in actuality creating syntax telling the world who you are and where you are going. Successfully dressing oneself today is about relevance and context. Who are you? Why do you matter? Who is your audience? Why do they matter? Are you authentic? Does your image support your message? We are dynamic beings. What worked for us 5, 10, or 15 years ago might not work for us today. Here are five questions that I ask prospective clients: 1. Has the model of your business environment or lifestyle changed from the time you first began to “problem solve” your way of dressing? 2. Do you sometimes feel that you have a closet full of nothing to wear? 3. Do you find yourself unsure or less confident in certain circumstances? 4. Have you avoided special events or networking opportunities because you did not feel you had the appropriate attire? 5. Have you failed to change your thought process and attitudes towards purchasing clothing in the past 5 to 10 years? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, you may need a paradigm shift. Formulas you once created to manage your wardrobe may be obsolete. If you are frustrated with the shopping process, it is highly probable that your problem solving model has created more problems for you than solutions. Here are five tips that may help you get started with creating a more authentic image. 1. Create a clear statement about yourself. It should encompass your key character traits. 2. Weed out all items in your wardrobe which are not relevant to your statement 3. Create a budget and acquisition plan. 4. Be patient. Only make purchases that are relevant to your message and your plan. Acquire items as your budget permits. Do not fall into the trap of making purchases in order to ‘get you by’. 5. Be disciplined. Only purchase items that you feel are a step up from what you already possess. Prepare yourself. Understand clothing purchases in a new light. Realize your purchases as investments. Consider the cost of opportunities lost by continuing to purchase clothing that is not clearly reflecting your message. You may wish to seek the help of an experienced image consultant who is not compensated for selling clothing. A highly trained consultant will be able to help you create solutions that will best suit your budget as well as your personal and lifestyle driven needs. LIVE MAGAZINE | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 25 A D I V R R D O It’s not that she doesn’t have the look of a model. Vida Rodriguez has the looks. And she’s modeled, successfully. It’s not that she doesn’t have the TV personality. She has personality — a big one. It sweeps you up, tosses axioms like “One race, one light, one love” your way and leaves you wondering if the world really is rainbows and butterflies. 26 Z E U IG EN DRYD I Y E L A AR NO T BY C ARTO TEN T H I Y R W DB APHE R G O PHOT F or years, she traveled around the globe as the host of several TV shows. But within the past two years Rodriguez gave in. She knew she had always been a fashion designer. “I never set out to do fashion,” she says. “It just kind of unfolded. It’s like people when they eat. They’re hungry so they eat. Fashion is like breathing for me. It’s just something that happens.” Her Barbies always wore dresses to tea. She constantly sketched clothing designs in her head. As a model, she could be found inspecting the clothing — the details, the stitching — and exploring how they were made. As a TV host, she styled herself. But in her 20s, while engrossed in the TV world, booking modeling gigs at the same time, Rodriguez paused. She had become a prima donna, she admits. So she started praying.“I felt like a restless lioness,” she says. “Knowing I needed to do something, communicate something but I didn’t know what.” Then a name came to her in the middle of the night, so she wrote it down on the notebook she kept next to her bed — Hippie Chick. An amateur etymologist, she broke down the root of the words, thinking perhaps there was an underlying message.“It’s a cool, hip, educated female, what am I going to do with that?” she thought. One of her friends owned a clothing production house. Rodriguez started scribbling some sketches. She thought about communicating feelgood words to the public, but how? “T-shirts! Everyone wears t-shirts,” she recalls. “I thought, ‘I’m going to intoxicate the world with love and peace.’” The production managers told her she had natural talent, but she needed to refine it and learn the ABCs of the fashion business. STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 VIDA RODRIGUEZ | STYLE FEATURE LIVE MAGAZINE | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 27 28 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 Huerta was impressed with Rodriguez’s high-end clothing, but knew Forever 21 targets juniors. She convinced Rodriguez to come up with some t-shirt and tank top designs for the company. Soon, Rodriguez’s designs were being sold at stores across the country, and selling out. Her happy face tank top is still one of their highest-selling items and Rodriguez’s signature piece.“Vida is just a ball of energy. She’s just so much fun. She’s positive. Her clothes are that. They’re pretty, they’re hippie, they’re free spirit. That’s very her,” Huerta said. “The line looks amazing because she puts a lot of energy and her personal taste into it.” “People come up to me and say, ‘You’re amazing.’ I say, ‘You’re amazing. I’m a reflection of you.’” Rodriguez knows she can sound trite, but assures she has no rose-colored glasses.“Hell no. I love the emotions of highs and lows. The only way we know goodness is from being in turmoil. Only in your lowest lows can you savor those high highs. Feel it all, that’s my philosophy,” she says. In the future, aside from expanding her line, Rodriguez would like to establish a non-profit, an art center for children, to make sure the arts stay alive, she says. “I don’t do things because I’m going to make money. I love what I do. I want to transfer that energy. I want people to connect with who they are,” she says. “Being uniform sucks. Individuality is what makes the whole world go round.” VIDA RODRIGUEZ After graduating, her pieces were immediately sold at high-end boutiques in Long Beach. When stores re-ordered, she would “freak out.” Then she met Connie Huerta, the casual wear buyer for Forever 21, one of the largest American clothing companies. What she wants people to take away most from her clothes, she says, is her message. “I channeled my energy into a zest for life. To show people that they too can have this life, this volume if they just connect with themselves,” she says. | “I would literally get kicked out of the studio because I didn’t want to stop doing it,” she says. As for her personal style, “it’s funky, that’s for sure,” she says. Today she’s wearing thigh-high boots, a long, asymmetrical off-the-shoulder sweater and a newsboy cap. “I’m very eclectic, very daring, feminine and comfortable,” she says. STYLE FEATURE Soon, she was enrolled in Fashion Design at Long Beach City College, in the city she had lived in since moving to the U.S. from Mexico at age 6. In school, her designs were funky, edgy, rock star, yet classicly signature as well. “I don’t like trendiness, I like things that last forever,” she says. While designing, she got a high. year and a half ago, the head of Seven jeans called Rodriguez to set up a meeting. At the meeting, they looked at her and said, “We don’t think you realize how powerful you are.” “I said, ‘Powerful? I’m powerful as an energy.’ They said, ‘No, in what you’re doing. Not just anyone produces for Forever 21 with 10,000 orders minimum.’ And I’m thinking, ‘Don’t scare me,’” she says, laughing. She also talked with the owner of American Apparel, one of her heroes. A “How small he started, how committed he is and he’s still standing on his dream,” she says. “It’s crazy to think I can call him or go to his factory.” Life for Rodriguez has definitely changed. Now, her assistant arrives at her house in Belmont Shores at 9 a.m. On a given day, she’ll go to the studio, pick up samples, sketch, go by the Forever 21 headquarters, go to the pattern production offices and pick out fabrics. Fabric decision is the biggest part of designing, she says. It takes one to two weeks to turn a sketch into a sample, another four to five days to get the fabric and about six weeks to receive a piece for retail. Although business was immediately booming after design school, Rodriguez decided to pull out for a couple years to learn manufacturing. “I needed to hold the reins, make sure I knew how to sketch, draw, manufacture and develop the line,” she says. “I’m a perfectionist in a way. I want things to be made well.” Her proclivity for well-made clothes might also come from her designer idols, known for tailored, detail-oriented pieces — Gucci, Chanel, Jean Paul Gaultier, Christian Lacroix and the late Alexander McQueen. Rodriguez’s Hippie Chick Couture line features ready-to-wear, young contemporary and couture designs that are “practical, funky and edgy.” “They’re dual-use, wear it during the day and at night. You can throw on high heels and you’re dressed up already,” she says. Of her jewelry, which she calls “love drops,” her main necklace is made of recycled African beads and can also be worn as a bracelet or a belt. 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And enhancement of our skin is a top beautification goal. Finding the right skin products to match individual skin needs is a constant activity for most of us. What works best for our skin is the goal. But, in a sea of faux solutions and quick “fixes” it’s really hard to differentiate between what works and what doesn’t. We all have questions about skin care that require answers from skin care professionals. Seaside Skincare in San Clemente is a skincare facility that has focused on providing only the finest medical grade skin therapies and products since they first opened their doors. They offer free skin consultations to analyze your unique skin type and create a customized treatment program, complete with a home care regimen that utilizes the most advanced medical grade products. In addition they also provide other services such as Botox and fillers, microdermabrasion, hydra facials and chemical peels as well making them a leader in Orange County skincare. With the help of the experts at Seaside Skincare Live describes some skin products that don’t rely on false products and gimmicks, but instead survive because of real results. The reason that most mainstream products fail is because they are not medically graded. All the products listed below are MEDICAL Grade products, meaning they are only available through physicians and have stronger active ingredients that you would find in products from stores like CVS, or Rite Aid, meaning they actually work and have the science to back it! Also as a special thank you to our readers we have coordinated with Seaside Skincare and they will offer 15% off any of these products to anyone that mentions this article. Here is our list of certified products: 34 CERTIFIED SKIN PRODUCTS a. Latisse by Allergan – This product focuses on growing longer, fuller and darker lashes! This product is HOT right now because it really works and women love the results. Typically it takes 4 weeks to start to see growth in length and about 12 weeks to see the fullness and darkness. It is easy to use; just apply once at night to upper lash line. This product is especially great for women as they age and their eyelashes get thinner. b. Youth Complex by Clinical – This is the ultimate anti-aging treatment moisturizer. It is light weight and only requires use once in the morning and once at night after cleansing the face. People love this product because you see IMMEDIATE results after applying it to the surface of the skin (a plumping of the skin), plus you get long term benefits from the Copper Tripeptide Growth Factor, which helps stimulate collagen, thus helping improve fine lines and wrinkles as well as tightening and firming the skin. c. Lumiere Eye Cream by NeoCutis – This product is the InStyle Editor’s Pick for Best Beauty Buy; Best Eye Cream for Dark Circles and/ or Puffiness. The product is an intensive line smoothing eye cream with processed skin cell proteins containing a unique protein blend of human growth factors. It gives people great results for improving and smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes (crow’s feet) through the stimulation of collagen as hyaluronic acid hydrates the delicate skin under and around the eyes. It diminishes the appearance of dark circles as caffeine helps reduce puffiness usually within 6 weeks, using AM and PM. d. Physical Cleansing Scrub by NIA24 – This is an exfoliating treatment cleanser that is strong and should only be used 2-3 times a week. Known for its Pro-Niasomes, which are spherical Jojoba Beads, this product gently polishes away dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. Every person concerned with their skin should be incorporating a scrub into their STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 i j BEAUTY | e SKIN CARE PRODUCTS We give you the scoop on beauty products that truly work. f g h skin care regimen as it will prime the skin to receive the full benefits their other skin care products and greatly improve texture of the skin. e. RevaleSkin CoffeeBerry Night Cream – This product is the Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner for 2011 in the Category of Best for Sensitive Skin. It contains 1% coffee berry extract, which is the most potent natural antioxidant available. Antioxidants will help to fight free radical-molecules that cause cell damage and thus reverse the signs of aging. This product is especially great for sensitive skin or people with Rosacea. It also contains hylauronic acid, and should be used at night after cleansing face. f. OBAGI Nu-Derm Condition and Enhance System – This product is a must for anyone with photo-damaged skin. The best part of this system is that it helps lighten and treat hyper-regimented areas in as early as 12 weeks. This product is especially great to use in Fall after most people have damaged their skin all summer long because it gets skin back in shape before the holidays. It contains prescription strength hydroquinone which renews skin at surface and cellular levels. It includes 1 Foaming Gel, 1 Toner, 2 Clear, 1 Exoderm Forte, 1 Blender, and 1 Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35. g. Tri-Retinol Complex by Skin Medica – This product contains a unique combination of three Pro-Retinoic acids (Retinol, Retinyl Actate, Retinyl Palmitate) and Vitamin E (Tocotrienol) which allows people to be get the great anti-aging effects of using a retinoic acid, (which include smaller pore size, improved skin tone/texture, accelerated exfoliation, improved appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, etc), without the irritation and discomfort often seen with prescription strength Retin-A. It can be used nightly and should be incorporated into any skin care regimen, in order to fight the signs of aging. This is a dermatologist’s best kept secret to young beautiful skin. h. Clarisonic Pro Deluxe Professional 4 – This Speed Skin Care System is not necessarily a chemical product, but it is included on the list, because of the way this cleansing brush makes the skin look and feel. This product dramatically improves pore size and texture of the skin with four speeds for maximum cleansing, removing greater than six times more residue than cleansing by hand— thus making skin more receptive to skincare ingredients, allowing your other skin care products to be better absorbed yet gentle enough for daily use. i. Elta MD UV Physical SPF 41 – This tinted sunscreen is chemical free, oil free, paraben free and contains 9% micronized zinc and 7% titanium dioxide. This product is great because it doesn’t feel like anything is on your face and it doesn’t cause breakouts. Protecting your skin from the suns harsh rays is the best way to prevent wrinkles and this sunscreen far supersedes any on the market because of its PHYSICAL blockers (zinc & titanium) not chemical blockers which are seen in most sunscreens. Physical blockers give much longer and broader UVA & UVB protection making this product great for daily use (even on cloudy days) after applying other skin care products in the morning. j. Daily Facial Cleanser by Vivite – This is a great cleanser to use daily morning and night before applying other skin care products. It contains a 12% Glycolic Compound which exfoliates skin well and has 1% Salicylic Acid which removes and breaks up oil on the skin providing clearer skin and fewer break outs. You don’t want to spend on great skin care products and not use a proper cleanser to prep your skin. It is essential that all your other products absorb well into your skin, so using a great cleanser is key. A major commitment to personal beautification involves ATTRACTIVE SKIN enhanced daily with appropriate skin products. Seaside Skin Care in San Clemente is your product home for your next skin products. LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 35 Hair WRITTEN BY AUBREY LOOTS COLOR STORIES FOR FALL 36 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 COLOR STORIES FOR FALL | BEAUTY H aving just led several shows in New York for such amazing designers as Nami, Indashio and Stephen Burrows, I can say with confidence that you will be seeing a lot of vibrant color and dynamic texture in hair for Spring 2012! In fact, my prediction is that fashion, design and culture will be breaking out of its shell throughout all of next year. So, what does that mean about the remainder of 2011? Well like fashion, design and culture, hair (color & style) is seasonal. Every season, the palette and technique alters to meet the lifestyle and aesthetic of its time. Recently, we saw new techniques & approaches to hair color that reinvented our relationship to hair. The Ombre technique, which creates beautiful transition of darker roots into lighter ends, not only celebrated the “California Beach” mystique, but it also was a look that was manageable and cost effective. Here is a quick guide of complementary Skin, Eye and Hair Color: Fair skin + Light eyes = Great with copper reds and strawberry blonde hair color Fair skin + Brown eyes = Great with auburn and gold tones for hair color Tan skin + Light eyes = Great with cooler blondes and cooler brown hair color Tan Skin/Brown eyes – Great with rich browns and golden blonde hair color Feel free to contact anyone one of our Studio DNA Salon stylists for a free Color Consultation and be sure to check out our “color palette” predictions for the Red Carpet for awards season starting in January 2012. Aubrey Loots www.studiodnasalon.com As we approach Fall/Winter 2011, we hair professionals find ourselves returning our clients to richer tones like warm auburns, golden browns and dynamic reds. For our die-hard blondes, we are enriching them with strawberry tones to help tone it down from the summer months while giving the overall look dimension (particularly for our clients who have over bleached during the summer). Essentially, we are correcting the harsh effects of bleach, beach and sun and giving our clients a rich, voluptuous look for the holidays and the New Year. The only way we can effectively correct and address our clients color needs is to use the best products available. Our preference is Wella Professional Hair Color and Wella Hair Care Products. Although our color palate goes a little deeper for the fall, Color still needs to be Rich, Shiny, Dimensional and and Luxurious. Also, remember when you change your Hair Color, be sure to have a consultation with your Make up Artist and Wardrobe Stylist about the right color palate for your new Hair look. LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 37 10 BEAUTY MUST HAVES 1 Polaris Lipsticks $20 BY DEVON POER No doubt, there are specific items every female can’t leave home without, those essential items that get you through the day, the night and some unforeseen rendezvous. Here are some must have survival tools to combat any fashion jungle! 3 polariscosmetics.com Sephora Retractable Travel Powder Brush #51 $29 2 Magic Pencil $20 sephora.com 5 polariscosmetics.com Butter London Nail Polish in Toff 51 $14 butterlondon.com 4 Sebastian Re-Shaper Brushable Strong Hold Hairspray $28 ebastianprofessional.com 38 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 BEAUTY MUST HAVES 7 Dermalogica Antioxidant Hydramist $37 | 8 BEAUTY Sonia Kashuk Bristle Hair Brush $15 dermalogica.com target.com 9 Ms. Manicure – Call Your Buff Nail File $3 10 6 Gleam by Melanie Mills Body Radiance $25 parispresents.com Sojourn Monoi Oil $26 store.sojournbeauty.com gleambymelaniemills.com LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 39 An emerald Robyn dress by Junko Yoshioka (Mark Ingram Atelier 212319-6778), vintage fur headpiece and white gloves (www.theshopert.com). Jewelry; platinum diamond tassel necklace, platinum Art Deco diamond earrings, platinum antique diamond ring, (The Dina Collection in Beverly Hills). CELEBRITY PICTORIAL 40 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 Interview By Damion Stein Intro By Tracy Le Photographer Daryl Henderson, www.daryl-henderson.com Fashion Stylist Devon Poer, www.devonpoer.com Makeup Artist Cristina Romeo for Polaris Cosmetics Hair Stylist Audra Tong and Erica Stoy for Studio DNA salons CELEBRITY PICTORIAL | BEAUTY FEATURE April Bowlby Y ou might recognize this Hollywood Starlet best from her reoccurring role as Kandi on Two and a Half Men or perhaps most recently from her work as Stacy on the popular show, Drop Dead Diva. LIVE MAGAZINE | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 41 A red embellished dress by Chaudry (www.chaudryfashion.com). Jewelry; vintage Cartier diamond & onyx earrings, fancy yellow diamond Rivera necklace and bracelet, platinum hematite yellow and white diamond ring, (The Dina Collection in Beverly Hills) L IVE had the opportunity to sit down with April to chat about everything from the fortune of falling into a thriving career and enjoyably staying in it— to her love and appreciation of California and dating two of the Two and a Half Men. APRIL: No, it’s not difficult for me because I feel like it’s kind of a fun thing to do so I actually have a lot fun with characters like that because you can kind of get away with anything if you play dumb. So I always win, which is great. Although some people get a little confused in real life – they think I’m my character and they’ll say silly things to me, but you’ve got to love them. LIVE: You grew up in Manteca, California, which is also known as the “The Family City.” What was it like growing up in the Bowlby family? Do you have a special childhood memory? LIVE: So who was more fun to date on the show on Two and a Half Men, Charlie or Alan? APRIL BOWLBY: Ahhh Manteca. It was great growing up in such a small agricultural town. We were always outside, riding bikes and going to the river. The Bowlby family was pretty wild to grow up in. My mom would make pancakes into clever shapes on the weekend. My sister used to ride horses, I was going to ballet classes. Camping in yosemite. And visiting my dad in Arizona for the summer and learning how to drive a stick shift truck?!?!? The best! There was always something to do in our family. LIVE: More your bag, yeah Charlie is a little crazy? APRIL: On the show, Charlie is an intense guy and I like the goofy guy. I like the underdog. LIVE: So you’re a California girl, originally from California but with Drop Dead Diva you spent a lot of time in Atlanta, do you miss being out here when you’re on those shoots? LIVE: So, in college you studied French and ballet. Was there ever a time when you wanted to do something other than acting, or has it always been acting? APRIL: Very much so, because there’s no place like California, it’s really special, I think we’re very lucky to be living in California. APRIL: It was never supposed to be acting. I wanted to be a ballerina so badly, but I broke my foot when I was seventeen. So that kind of changed things and I never quite had the right body for being a ballerina so I started modeling and then modeling rolled into acting. It all kind of just happened. LIVE: So certainly people know you from playing Kandi on Two and a Half Men. Your character is kind of ditsy but you seem to be a really intelligent girl. Is it difficult to play that kind of roles? What are your thoughts on that? 42 APRIL: I would have to say it was Jon Cryer. Even though they’re both fantastic and it’s hard to choose, I think Jon Cryer in real life is more like his character which is more my bag. LIVE: Tell us about Drop Dead Diva and your involvement. STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 CELEBRITY PICTORIAL BEAUTY FEATURE | A cream feathered trim Katie dress by Junko Yoshika (Mark Ingram Atelier 212-319-6778). Jewelry; platinum 1950's Van Cleef & Arpels sapphire & diamond necklace, platinum David Webb sapphire & diamond flower brooch, platinum French Art Deco diamond bracelet, Tiffany platinum diamond & sapphire bracelets, Sophia D platinum diamond & sapphire 3-row bracelets, platinum diamond bracelet & earrings, platinum diamond & sapphire ring (The Dina Collection in Beverly Hills). LIVE MAGAZINE | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 43 Cover & this page: A red embellished dress by Chaudry (www.chaudryfashion.com). Jewelry; vintage Cartier diamond & onyx earrings, fancy yellow diamond Rivera necklace, tourmaline & diamond ring, Kristin Farrell diamond bangle (The Dina Collection in Beverly Hills). 44 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 CELEBRITY PICTORIAL | BEAUTY FEATURE APRIL: Landing the role of Stacy on Drop Dead Diva has been amazing. Drop Dead Diva was the first series that I was a cast regular and appeared on for all three seasons. It’s helped me feel more confident in my craft. To be on a show is a blessing. You work with the same people everyday and I have found that your co workers become your second family. There is such a camaraderie. It’s such a special feeling. I think that alone helps me in my career because I am reminded of how lucky I am to do what I do. LIVE: Do you have time for hobbies, or has your flourishing acting career taken over most of your time? LIVE: With all that reality TV out there, it must be kind of tough for actors right now. LIVE: This is our Annual Style and Beauty Issue. What are some of the things you find to be stylish or inspiring? APRIL: It’s getting really tough these days; the pickings are slim so I’m very blessed to actually have a show to be on. APRIL: That’s a really good question. I love winter boots (laughs). I like raspberries and oranges and I think Fall is going to be a great season for all those things to come out. I like boots, sweaters and jeans. LIVE: Your family must be really proud? APRIL: They are very proud and have been supportive. I just love them. They’re always there for me and it’s a great thing to have family support. LIVE: I’m sure all of our male readers want to know, what is your idea of a perfect date? APRIL: The perfect date would be a lovely dinner. Italian or sushi, your pick. Really great conversation, perhaps a walk around the city, then a movie. I love movie theaters. It’s always cool to see what your date will find funny, sad or annoying….depending on said movie. LIVE: What is currently playing on your ipod? APRIL: My Ipod is currently playing The National, Washed Out and Foster The People. APRIL: Surprisingly there is a lot of sitting around required with acting. So, yes I have hobbies. I knit, I just made a mean rhubarb strawberry jam, hiking, travel and practicing Spanish. I am also learning more then I ever wanted to know about house renovation. That’s a hobby, no? LIVE: Excellent. You have some beautiful clothes and jewelry on today, huh, are you having a fun time? APRIL: Yes! It’s kind of like every girl’s dream come true, maybe this will be my wedding ring. LIVE: That’s some bling right there, for sure. APRIL: I have to get engaged first, but it’s possible. All these jewels are a fun thing for any season. Come on! LIVE: We are so excited to be working with you April. Thank you for taking the time sitting down with us and we can’t wait to continue working with you and having a blast! LIVE MAGAZINE | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 45 5th Annual Miss Newport Beach Pageants October 15, 2011 Sutra, Newport Beach August 27: Alexis Bellino Fashion Show & Pageant Pre-Party Newport Angel ages 3 to 5 Little Miss Newport Beach ages 6 to 9 Junior Miss Newport Beach ages 10 to 14 Miss Newport Beach Teen ages 15 to 18 Miss Newport Beach ages 19 to 28 Mrs. Newport Beach ages 21+ Ms. Newport Beach ages 21+ All contestants and attendees receive a gift bag from our sponsors. Contestant entry fee is $295 and includes classes in: Makeup Modeling Hair Styling Etiquette Competition Psychology Fitness Skincare / Beauty and more Featuring Celebrity Judges and Emcee: NewportBeachPageants.com Call for Tickets: 949-777-6772 PROGRESSIVE DENTISTRY Alexis Bellino, Caren Lancona, Lorenzo Lamas, Chelsea Autumn, Eric Etebari, Rick Mora of Twilight, Mara New, Casting Director-Katie MacIntosh, Talent Agents and more! LOCAL DESIGN INNOVATORS | BEAUTY n g i s e S D R l O a c T o A L V O N IN Southern California’s WRITTEN BY SAMANTHA GONZAGA T style scene translates sun, surf and city life while finding its fit as a growing fashion destination wenty-some years ago the teenage Abu Gooby would have told you that he just wanted to dance. Girls, he found, liked guys who can move. And he did, taking the energy and athleticism he devoted to BMX riding, a favorite childhood pastime, to perform professionally in more than a dozen commercials and concert tours. Over the next 15 years, he would inevitably and frequently find himself at the intersection of entertainment and fashion – the two influential forces driving Southern California’s creative economy, in size second only to the region’s tourism and hospitality sector. He was game. The youngest of 10 in a family of artists, Gooby’s creative instincts led him to several artistic pursuits – creating pieces for fellow dancers, experimenting with metal furniture design, photography, stints as a celebrity wardrobe stylist – before establishing Abu Original (www. abuoriginal.com), a brand of hand-crafted accessories and apparel. Notable for its deft manipulation of leather, Gooby’s line features closet staples like belts and bags, as well as ambitious pieces – textured earrings, sinuous necklaces in natural and acid colors, ornate wristwatch bands, thick bracelet cuffs, even a lightweight leather scarf that caught the fancy of Lisa Marie Presley. Gooby’s pieces have since been used in films and runway shows, featured in magazines, and worn by celebrities including Halle Berry, Wyclef Jean, and Billy Idol. He claims influence by the European tradition of craftsmanship, finds inspiration from nature, and credits the women in his life – his mother, fashion-minded older sisters, stylish girlfriends, private and celebrity clients alike – for shaping his creative development. Still, Abu Original remains a one-man operation based out of Gooby’s Long Beach home. He’s his own publicist, design team and production line. “A lot of people tend items that make what big designers do,” Gooby said in a recent interview. “Mine come from the heart. If you call yourself an artist, you should be able to move through all mediums.” LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 47 The medium is the message, figuratively and sometimes literally. Southern California isn’t exactly the center of haute couture, but its fashion industry communicates what it does best: selling the California lifestyle. Orange County is, after all, the birthplace of the high Ten culture. For decades, Hollywood influenced runway fashion, while Los Angeles remains a hub for garment manufacturing. Long Beach’s lookbook is a dichotomy between the eclecticism of its local artisan community – its Arts Council, an educational and coordinating organization, has been in place since 1976 – and the city’s increasing visibility as an action and outdoor sports venue. Original clothing, handcrafted jewelry and textiles, as well as skate- and surf-inspired apparel are regular fare in boutiques along Belmont Shore’s 2nd Street and 4th Street’s lively Retro Row. Long Beach even sells as an idea, a brand, as demonstrated by Long Beach Clothing Company (www.longbeachclothing.com). The hometown clothier carries locally designed apparel paying tribute to Long Beach’s urban and sports scene (the company opened another store in Signal Hill). In May professional skater Tim Gavin opened Port (www.portlbc.com), specializing in skate-inspired clothing. West Coast Choppers, Jesse James’ chopper lifestyle brand, had its headquarters in Long Beach before closing last year. $5.6 billion in revenues, according to 2010 Creative Economy Reports. Its 2011 study will be released next month. Orange County’s fashion industry may be smaller, but its economic and cultural contribution is anything but undersized. Shopping centers like Newport Beach’s retail giant Fashion Island and Mission Viejo's The Shops at Mission Viejo which features coutoure stores like Nordstrom, BCBG, True Religion, Tommy Bahama, and Coach. In 2009, 743 nearly 750 fashion-related businesses were operating in 2009, provided 26,500 direct and indirect jobs in the region, and generated $88 million in tax revenue, according to CFA figures. As a whole, Southern California’s fashion industry faces several economic realities. As manufacturing and production continue to be outsourced offshore, Otis College’s study projects slow job growth throughout the creative economy at least through 2014. Despite this outlook, creative jobs are expected to hold steady. There are signs of growth, however, that the Southern California style scene as a fashion destination attributed to several trends. Indicators identified by CFA include the addition of new trade shows, full enrollment in regional design curriculum and consumer interest in Orange County “surf style.” The Los Angeles’ style scene mirrors the go-getter California dream of “making it,” and Orange County reflects living the dream. The entrepreneurial drive – exemplified by Gooby, Nguyen and Kellogg – continues to run strong. Traditional employment is shrinking as the ranks of self-employed grow; brand and product managers shift in-house resources towards while they do best while outsourcing services like marketing. But the visionaries are unlikely to leave local stomping grounds. Otis College’s study shows that employment for specialized services like fashion design is expected to increase. “The fashion aesthetic in Orange County is lifestyle choice,” said Valerio, a longtime fashion executive in the skate and surf industry. IMKING Clothing Company's founder and CEO Andy King echoed the sentiment. “Our lifestyle is what goes into the line,” Nguyen said. “Most of our team are born and raised in Southern California. So Cal to me is a little bit of everything. You’ve got the skateboarders, fashionistas, surfers, sneakerheads, gangsters, etc… all in one place. IMKING is So Cal.” The Costa Mesa-based brand offers t-shirt, denim and headwear lines, frequently incorporating its slogan, “Raw Talent, Creating Destiny,” in designs (www.imking.com). P. Diddy and 50 Cent have been snapped wearing them. “Talented individuals wearing IMKING is huge for our retailers and consumers,” Nguyen said. “We have a great relationship with a lot of musicians, athletes, and artists. It’s a lot easier to explain to my mom how global the brand is when you have Lil Wayne wearing your product.” Star power alone doesn’t sell merchandise. Fashion is still a competitive market. Los Angeles’ manufacturing sector is dominated by small- to mid-sized companies. In 2009, there were nearly 8,000 fashion-related businesses in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Los Angeles hires more fashion employees than New York City, making it the nation’s apparel-textiles center. In 2010, Los Angeles employed 120,822 over the Big Apple’s 73,822, according to the California Fashion Association. In the same year, Los Angeles County “Clearly there is an immediate multiplier effect,” said CFA president Ilse Metchek. “They are definitely not going to be successful as ‘consultants’…that’s tantamount to being out of work in this business. Additionally, start-ups are primarily utilizing the local contracting base to create their product and their first shipments. However, if they are planning to do business with the mass merchants (like Walmart and Target), they must rely on international sourcing. However, even with off-shore sourcing, local employees are required for design, pattern making, specification sheets, communication, warehousing, etc.” In the meantime, designers aren’t short on inspiration or interested buyers. Its expansion reflects the demand clothiers like Kellogg try to meet. The brand launched its first collection of men’s tops in 2008, debuted its women’s line a year later and have since grown both lines to full collections of denim, jackets, woven and knit tops, and dresses. Kellogg’s lines enjoy domestic distribution in more than 100 retailer, as well as distribution in Canada, Europe, and soon, Costa Rica. Lira also recently added a swimwear line to its Spring 2012 collection. “We are in what is considered by many to be the ‘mecca’ of actions sports related fashion, which we use to the fullest in our design and thought process,” Kellogg said. “We use many factors for inspiration including art, travel, music and all the things that bring them together.” Overall, the industry has an $8.2 billion economic impact and generated 48 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 a TASTE INFUSION MI CASA MEXICAN RESTAURANT & BAR claire’s at the museum Mi Casa is a story of family; of multi-generations dedicated to good food and festive times. Since 1972, Mi Casa has been serving the best tacos, enchiladas and margaritas this side of the border. Come experience OC's favorite Mexican food restaurant and see why this is known as a "local spot." Claire’s is open for Happy Hour on Thursday evenings from 3-8 p.m. Enjoy $5 Beer and Wine! Claire’s offers indoor and outdoor seating with expansive views of the Queen Mary, Catalina Island and the Pacific Ocean. Our executive chef will tempt your palate with entrees including thick steaks, chops and island style fresh fish. We feature an extensive wine list and martini bar. We’re open for lunch, dinner, special events, and catering is available. This is just the beginning of an amazing culinary experience. Infusion. 949.645.7626 www.micasa1.com 562.439.2119 lbma.com 949.364.1100 infusionladera.com 296 E. 17th Street costa mesa 2300 East Ocean Blvd. LONG BEACH 25612 CROWN VALLEY PKWY L-1 LADERA RANCH AMELIA’S SEAFOOD & ITALIAN RESTAURANT 311 MARINE AVE, BALBOA ISLAND NEWPORT BEACH Celebrating 50 years, this landmark on Marine Avenue has offered delectable Italian and seafood dishes. Amelia’s has a reputation as a romantic dining destination, but it’s also a fun family restaurant. Amelia’s welcomes private parties, birthday celebrations, holiday events, and wedding rehearsal dinners. 949-673-6580 ameliasbalboaisland.com Breakfast Lunch Dinner Kids Menu Sunday Brunch Bar Full Bar Live Entertainment CAFÉ SEVILLA 2196 Harbor Blvd Costa Mesa 140 PINE AVE. LONG BEACH On top of serving the best baby back ribs in the state, Naples Rib Company offers a complete selection of aged midwestern corn-fed USDA choice steaks and prime rib, swordfish, and chicken making it the place for people who enjoy good food in a place that enjoys their company. Sangria, tapas, and Spanish guitar ensure that you enjoy every minute of your dining experience. 949.631.2110 ribcompany.com 562.495.1111 cafesevilla.com Happy hour daily 4:30 — 6:30 p.m. in the tapas bar. CASA RAnchero 25606 Crown Valley Pkwy Suite K2 Ladera Ranch The smell of fresh tortillas cooked to order stimulate the senses. Mouth watering Mexican Cuisine is prepared using only choice meats and poultry, fresh fish and produce, and authentic rice and beans. 949-276-7800 www.casaranchero.com LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 Parking Delivery Catering Credit Cards * Under $15 $15 – $30 $30 – $50 Over $50 *Based on appetizer, entrée, dessert, and non-alcoholic beverage for one person. DINING GUIDE NAples rib company 49 Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Casa Ranchero Mellow Mexican Cuisine WRITTEN BY ERIC WIENER PHOTOGRAPHED BY MATT FUKUSHIMA 50 50 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 The location’s defining characteristic is not its proximity, however, but rather the open patio encompassing half the restaurant. Thatch umbrellas and strung globe lights form a resort-like aura. Heaters, cacti, and a whispering fountain unite with what is jokingly referred to as a swim-up bar. The next logical step will be charging meals to your room. Inside, the space has been crafted to resemble an anonymous Mexican street. Dim backlights and candles offer views of stained glass in a false Casa Ranchero’s Executive Chef, Pedro Rios, hails from Mexico City’s Culinary Institute, after which he stopped at Infusion, Javier’s in Irvine, and Azteca Grill in Washington along the way to taking the reins at Casa Ranchero. His cooking linchpin comes via a combination of garlic, citrus, and coriander-based spices. “I try to keep it simple,” he says. “That’s my focus.” Chef Rios’s enchiladas stuff corn tortillas with rotisserie roasted, shredded chicken sautéed in salt, pepper, cilantro, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. The mole sauce joins a higher rank in complexity and spiciness when mixed with their designated, homemade salsa. And blessedly, Chef Rios lets the enchiladas breathe by only adding a touch of melted cheese, rather than drowning the plate as if we’d never have the chance to experience dairy again. RESTAURANT REVIEW Owned and operated by the husband and wife team of Claire and Lonnie Shepard, the Mexican eatery resides directly across the parking lot from their first venture, Infusion. Both spouses grew excited when the space became available, and as Mrs. Shephard puts it, “No Mexican restaurants were around the area and we literally had the perfect space. The location dictated the concept from the very beginning.” There’s a man at Casa Ranchero whose sole job is to make chips and salsa, day and night. He’s responsible for the baskets upon baskets ushered into the front house. His craftsmanship leads to slightly thicker tortilla crisps, still plenty salty, that beg for a frozen margarita or watermelon-jalapeno martini. | his month marks the one-year anniversary of Casa Ranchero, a dreamy little cantina under Ladera Ranch’s quiet open skies. FOOD & WINE window; a warming fireplace flickers opposite adobe tiles in a faux roof. Everything is meticulous and clean, carefully chosen and placed. Peek into the kitchen and you’ll find the exact same phenomenon: spotless steel countertops and ranges hosting bowls of salsa arranged in painstakingly perfect lines – all ready to ship out at a moment’s notice. Chile Colorado Burrito LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 51 Shredded Beef Enchiladas On the other end of the spectrum, the beef enchiladas offer a much richer experience. Untrimmed beef roasts get braised for three hours, until lime, bay leaves, and coriander flow throughout each bite. Since corn tortillas are dry by their very nature, the more succulent red meat, and slathered, greasy onions work wonders here. Beer-A-Rita Chili Colorado comes in platter or taco form, featuring ancho and jalapeno peppers in a garlic, cumin, coriander, oregano, and vinegar stew. Beef chunks wrap up in the thick, burgundy-colored sauce. Fluffy guacamole, crispy tortilla strips, and fresh limes finish filling out the doughy flour tortillas. Though Casa Ranchero offers these traditional classics alongside new specials every weekend, if you ask employees what they eat, most will have the same answer. Ask Chef Rios what he prefers for dinner and you’ll hear the same response as well: the carnitas. Firm on the outside – but melancholy tender with a small push from a fork – the braised pork’s moist consistency brings to mind a slow-cooked roast. Served with cilantro, onions, tomatoes, sliced avocado, limes, tortillas, and rice and beans, the sheer quantity might be intimidating until working one’s way through the first few pieces; there you’ll keep finding slowly prodded southwestern herbs, hints of melon, and the essence of other sweet citruses. Running a rival business one hundred yards from your spouse might cause tension in even the most sound relationship. But like everything at Casa Ranchero, Claire and Lonnie Shephard’s competition is good natured, relatively simple, and fun… which is exactly why it works. Casa Ranchero 25606 Crown Valley Pkwy K-2 Ladera Ranch, CA 92694 949.276.7800 52 52 Watermelon Japaleno Margarita STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 RESTAURANT GUIDE | FFOOD & WINE LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 53 Relaxation, Rejuvenation, Restoration WRITTEN BY TRACY LE The R Spaa winning combination of fitness and beautification. W hen it comes to beauty and wellness, the Renaissance ClubSport not only provides a fitness center which appeals to patrons who desire the more catered gym experience, but also, it is a space for those who need a luxurious escape, to beautify inside and out. The R Spa is the perfect example of such a place. Opened in July 2008 and located deep in the hills of Aliso Viejo, the fitness club (linked with the boutique-style hotel, Renaissance) stands almost alone in a distinct medium where you can find the intended audience to be those who both wear business and also track suits. One side of the property is dedicated to the hotel itself (174 rooms total) and a handful of banquet rooms, the other side is their health and fitness area, and right in the middle (also known as the hub) you can find their bar/restaurant. The Vibe: enthusiasm, comfort and personal welcome Upon arriving for a personal tour for a closer look of the resort, I was greeted by the club’s own Director of Club Operations & Services/ Program Marketing, Laurie Smith. With an enthusiasm that matched the noticeable vibrant and aesthetically engaging interior design, I was instantly pleased with the consistent tone that displayed an atmosphere that could make anyone feel valuable and not misplaced—comfortable and not unwelcomed. Before making our way to their spa, officially known as R Spa, we first enter their R Spa Boutique store. The shop provides products ranging from fitness clothing to aromatherapy candles to a complete selection of facial and body care products used in their spa, including make-up and hair and nail care. As I make my way through the shop towards the R Spa, the consistently warm introductions of staff follows me. Suddenly an aroma, which was most likely lavender, lured me into the hallway of the 54 R Spa and there I passed a total of nine rooms designated for all types of facials, massages and skin care treatments. With lights lit low and a set-up that made me feel right at home, the atmosphere succeeded in displaying a mood that was instantly serene and peaceful. Customized treatments and experiences lead to wellness As a full-service spa that offers all types of massages, facials, waxing, nail care, body treatments, spray tan, and teeth whitening, the treatments are surely customized to the client’s needs. Among a plethora of treatments offered, the facials and massages were declared to be the most popular among their clientele. Spa Director, Susan Volkamer adds that what keeps people coming back to the spa is the quality of treatments in general. And since achieving wellness through the client’s spa experience is a goal of Susan’s, you can bet the R Spa truly customizes treatments and experiences depending on the client’s needs. Curious, I wondered what might be distinct and unique to their property. Both Susan and Laurie raved about what is called their Vichy shower. This unique six-headed shower provides a distinct additional plus to their body treatments and is described as a warm “rain shower” reminiscent STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 Wildfox Vince Cosabella Chan Luu 291 Venice Otazu R SPA of the tropics that fully exfoliates the body. Safe to say, a potential visit would be Vichy-influenced. In addition to all these treats, the R Spa also holds monthly specials with themes that cleverly coincide with the month. For September it was “Beat” Back To School Blues and this month will be Fall into Relaxation. Spa specials | Restorative Hot Stone Massage – 75 minutes only $110 (save $35) Experience a new level of relaxation as smooth, heated basalt stones gently glide across the body in a soothing rhythmic massage. The healing stones promote release of muscle tension, tissue repair, and a feeling of total well-being. BEAUTY ON BALBOA 324 Marine Ave Balboa Island, California Body Bronzing Treatment – 50 minutes for $85 (save $25) Summer may be over but that doesn’t mean your tan has to be! Achieve a natural-looking, golden glow without dangerous sun exposure. A full body salt glow precedes the application of a natural spray tan to ensure even, lasting coverage. This is most relaxing bronzing treatment ever! Check us out on facebook! info@shopcandacepaige.com Pink Peds for The Cure All net proceeds from purchases of any pink nail polish are donated to Breast Cancer Research. R Spa truly strives to “awaken your senses and help you rediscover the three R’s – Relax, Rejuvenate and Restore. There are countless benefits to what this resort offers. Whether you might want to make a whole day of it or just take a few moments of a day to experience the R Spa, this is a place that allows for such retreats from the busy life style that so easily surrounds us. Conveniently, with or without a club membership, the use of the spa itself is open to both club members and the public. As Director of Club Operations, Laurie puts it, “we want to be the destination of all sports or fitness enthusiasts.” And at R Spa at Renaissance ClubSport, your destination offers access to world-class facilities with result-oriented treatments and knowledgeable staff to service you and guide you through a spa experience that will surely leave you revitalized. Want to know more? Visit their website: www.renaissanceclubsport.com. Analili Haute Hippie Wildfox Vince Cosabella Chan Luu 291 Venice Otazu Saint Vintage Lauren Moshi Analili Bring Me to LIfe! 324 Marine Ave. Balboa Island, CA 949-673-5707 Check us out on facebook! LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 55 Working Wardrobes provides professional clothing and careerreadiness training to people in need throughout Long Beach and Southern California. WRITTEN BY Dawn Mori PHOTOS COURTESY OF WORKING WARDROBES COMMUNITY HERO Working Wardrobes S ometimes a journey begins with a single step in a new business suit. volunteer, had a successful corporate career, using her background in marketing and advertising to start her own ad agency. Every year, Working Wardrobes helps 5,000 women and men in Orange County, Long Beach, Los Angeles, and the Inland Empire take another step forward from difficult life situations which include domestic violence, alcohol and substance abuse, and transitional homelessness. The Costa Mesabased non-profit partners with more than 65 local social service agencies, providing career-readiness workshops and professional clothing, personally selected for each client by a volunteer personal shopper. It was a colleague who would give her the newspaper clipping which would change her life. It was a story of a woman who offered unsold clothing from her North Carolina retail store to women from a local safe shelter for job interviews or court appearances. Deeply touched, Rosen and her friends focused their volunteer efforts to help Orange County women enter or return to the workforce with an event that would become the first Day of Self-Esteem. “It’s about treating men and women with dignity and increasing their self-esteem—our vehicle just happens to be the clothing and the career development,” said Jerri Rosen, Working Wardrobes Founder and CEO. 56 “We really knew nothing about what we were doing,” she remembered. “We didn’t know what rolling racks were, we didn’t even know what different sizes we needed.” Since 1991, the organization has transformed more than 50,000 lives through its programs that include its two annual Day of Self-Esteem events, which provide motivation, wardrobe, and personal grooming for men and women, and a Cinderellas for Life prom dress and makeover event. Quickly overcoming their learning curve, the event was a success, growing into an annual event then an annual weekend of events. Agency partnerships also expanded to include those from homeless shelters and drug and alcohol recovery programs. The program was further expanded to include veterans and teens. Rosen founded Working Wardrobes with a group of friends as way to help victims of domestic violence. At the time Rosen, already a dedicated The Men’s Wearhouse became a corporate partner in 1997, allowing Working Wardrobes to launch its first Men’s Day of Self-Esteem, an annual STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 event to be held this October at Los Amigos High School in Fountain Valley. These services include the use of the volunteerstaffed computer lab and job center, which is open to clients as a drop-in service. The center provides assistance in searching and applying for jobs online, building a resume, and improving interview skills. On the far side of the building, the Working Wardrobes Donation Center processes 12,000 to 15,000 items of clothing each month from community donors, clothing drives, and donations from manufacturers and retailers. Corporate donors include long-time partners Kiyonna plus-size clothing for women and the Men’s Wearhouse, which now provides 40%50% of the men’s clothing for the organization. | Some of the Working Wardrobes staff with Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (center) Volunteers even lead Working Wardrobes’ two-week customer service training, which is certified by the National Retail Federation. “This really is an organization run by volunteers and fueled by volunteers,” said Rosen. She also stressed that while 60% of Working Wardrobe’s revenue comes from its business model of earned income from agency fees and store sales, financial donations from the community play a critical role in providing the remaining revenue. It is needed funding that will allow Working Wardrobes to continue its good work of helping those in need get back on their feet, making a difference in thousands of lives, one step at a time. FACES & PLACES Here, agencies make group appointments, matching each client with a volunteer personal shopper who helps them select one or two work outfits, blouses or shirts, and all accessories. Clothes are free to each client with agencies paying fees to use Working Wardrobes services. COMMUNITY HERO A designated non-profit organization since 2000, Working Wardrobes now fills a busy warehouse in a Costa Mesa industrial park. At the heart of the building is the organization’s walk-in job center and men’s and women’s clothing boutiques, each with a distinct department store look and feel. “The individuals that are sent to us obviously are coming from very difficult life challenges and crises, so when someone tells them, ‘Hey, you need to find a job,’ it’s terrifying and overwhelming for a lot of them,” said Milius. “So to have an organization just break it down into simple, easy manageable steps, then walk them through each one is just amazing. I can’t tell you how many times we have seen this look of relief across our clients’ faces when they understand what we can offer them. It’s fantastic.” Even though Working Wardrobes asks that all clothing arrive at the Donation Center clean and on hangers, each piece undergoes extensive quality control to look for rips, stains and overall wear-and-tear. Approved clothing is sized, tagged, then sorted in four ways—as business attire suitable for clients, high-end and designer pieces which are sold at the organization’s The Hanger Resale Boutiques in Tustin and Laguna Niguel, casual items which are sold at their thrift store in Anaheim, or excess clothing which is donated to other organizations. Josh Milius, Working Wardrobe’s Administrative/ IT Assistant and unofficial Goodwill Ambassador, notes that the Donation Center is able to manage the sheer volume of clothing due to the efforts of dedicated volunteer teams. They are part of the organization’s 2,000 volunteers who contribute time and talent as personal shoppers, salon stylists, job center staff, administrative help, and more. Volunteers also serve as Success Coaches who teach the off-site workshops that precede each Day of Self-Esteem event. Because the need for transportation and child care may keep clients from attending career readiness workshops, Working Wardrobes volunteers travel to partner agencies teaching two nights each week to clients in residential programs. Only those clients who complete the five-week workshop are invited to participate in the Day of Self-Esteem events. LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 57 BUSINESS PROFILE Blue Eyed Girl WRITTEN BY CHERYL SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHED BY LILY STEIN Blue Eyed Girl is on a roll, with four stores opened in just five years. sense to work. “I’ve always loved fashion,” she said. “It started back in high school, and I always dreamed of working in the fashion industry. I started out with lingerie parties at first.” From there she progressed to a small space in a friend’s tanning salon. “We were talking one day about the store I wanted to open and the Van Morrison song ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ came on. We thought it was a perfect name, but because I have blue eyes, we changed it.” She opened her first store in San Juan Capistrano soon after she left her job as a pharmacy manager. Contrary to the warnings of friends, the store was an immediate success. She opened her store in San Clemente’s Talegaville in 2008, shortly after she got married. Next came Laguna Beach, and she and husband Tom, started to divide the workload. “Two heads are better than one. He has real financial expertise and knows business,” she said. “I do the buying and the merchandising and run the stores. It works out really well.” She recently opened a fourth store, up the coast in Santa Barbara. “This is my first store that’s out of the area,” she said. “I have a full-time manager there and I go up every couple of weeks. D awn McKnight started small, but today she owns and operates four upscale shops where women can find unique accessories and cutting-edge fashion. “We carry high-end designer pieces like silk and lace tops and fashion jewelry, fine shoes and bags, travel wear, transitional clothing,” she says. “Our customers are fashion conscious women who can afford to buy the kind of clothes you would see at Nordstrom’s or Saks.” She buys clothing and accessories from New York and Los Angeles, looking for things you won’t see on everyone. “I try to get things that are unusual enough and distinctive enough that a customer won’t go to a party and find someone else in the same thing.” After 15 years in the health care industry she decided to change careers in 2005, and a designer boutique seemed the perfect place to put her fashion 58 58 Each store is unique, and characterized by the neighborhood it’s in. “The Laguna store has more foot traffic and is much busier during the summer months because of all the tourists. The Talega store is doing best right now. But they’re all doing well.” McKnight’s business plan is simple and straightforward. She has opened a new store as soon as the most recent one has begun to turn a profit. Branching out to Santa Barbara was a gutsy move, but she wants to develop a template that she can use to build more remote locations. “I don’t know yet if I will go out of state,” she said. “That depends on whether I can develop a template that will allow us to feature the same quality in goods and services that we do in our four stores now.” During a decade that has seen the close of many a small business, Blue Eyed Girl has managed to stay on a growth path. “The economy hit us big time in 2009,” she said. “I work with my vendors to find less expensive Laurie Semon (left) and Erin O'Hagan merchandise that still meets our upscale standards.” STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 A busy mom of two teenagers and three step children, McKnight admits her life can sometimes get hectic. “But I love it,” she says. “I want my stores to be a reflection of who I am. I am a neat and organized person, and I’m very particular about how my shops look. One of the things I like best is merchandising. It’s a way to exercise my own creativity.” In the end, McKnight says that there is no substitute for customer service. “Things are too competitive today for a slip on the service end. Everyone who shops in my stores receives personalized attention. There’s a hospitality aspect to the operation. I want my customers to feel comfortable in the store. I want their shopping experience to be as friendly as a visit. And I want them to be happy with their purchases. That’s the most important thing.” Looking for SOMETHING NEW? As to the future of her operation, she doesn’t plan to stop opening new locations. “I don’t know when or where I’ll open another store,” she says. “When the time is right and I find the right place I’ll take the next step.” BUSINESS & MONEY “I enjoy working with my customers,” she says. “Once I get to know them, I look for things that I know they will like. I also fulfill requests from my customers. I try to customize our product to meet the taste of the women who shop with us.” | BUSINESS PROFILE She also started a website, which immediately boosted sales. “I use everything I’ve ever learned about marketing. We do coupons and we advertise. But the most important thing is that we keep the quality in our merchandise.” If the past is any indication, the next steps aren’t too far into the future. Catch the NEW WAVE of FITNESS • 13,000 Sq. Ft. Facility • Top-of-the-Line Equipment • Organic Cafe/Smoothie Bar • Towel Service Now TRAIN for FREE! • 31103 Rancho Viejo Rd, San Juan Capistrano. 949-429-1361 • 802 Avenida,Talega 949-429-8180 • 1200 Pacific Coast Hwy., South Laguna 949-715-4646 • 1021 State St., Santa Barbara 805-845-9154 3505 Via Oporto Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.566.9290 CurlFitness.com LIVE ORANGE COUNTY | LIVEMAGS.NET | OCTOBER 2011 59 LOCAL EVENTS LOCAL EVENTS TASTE of BREWS ART & ENTERTAINMENT | WRITTEN BY ALI LERMAN PHOTO COURTESY OF TASTE OF BREWS f you are a fan of trying new things and coincidently happen to like beer, get your tickets now to Taste of Brews because this event was made for you! On October 15th, make your way down to Dana Point where the Taste of Brews Beer Tasting Festival is featuring beers from around the world- a must for beer fans to check out! I The Taste of Brews debut, held at Lighthouse Park on August 20th in Long Beach, was a very successful introduction to this unique event. Now it moves down closer to OC fans! With a theme of, “Autumn Flavor with Oktoberfest and Oom-Pah Bands,” this time Taste of Brews will be in Dana Point at Lantern Bay Park overlooking the beautiful Dana Point Harbor. Attendies can have fun and hang out with friends while indulging in products like Bison Organic Beer, Ballast Point Brewing Company, Hugo Dounonme, Sudwerk Brewery, and The Original Fireman’s Brew— just to name a few of the many. Beer fans can be in absolute heaven with the sampling list as it doesn’t stop there! Inland Empire Brewing Company, Peroni, Shock Top, Lhasa Beer, and Sea Dog Brewing Company will also be on hand to serve up refreshing samples along with the many other vendors. The many liquids available at Taste of Brews also will be accompanied by an array of food offerings with delicious samples coming from local cafes, restaurants, and gastropubs— a challenge for those big appetites ! Food trucks also will be on hand to serve up meals! There are four ticket packages to choose from ranging from $38.25 to $60, which is for “VIP Admission- Early Bird Pricing.” Purchasing six tickets or more and you will automatically get 15% off (making your tickets only $38.25) so grab your friends because this is a can’t miss event (with an awesome discount) for all lovers of beer! According to The Taste of Brews fact sheet, “The official event charitable partner is Dana Point’s famed Ocean Institute. The mission of the Ocean Institute is to inspire all generations, through education, to become responsible stewards of our oceans” so, coming out for this fun event will actually make a difference and give you something else to feel good about! 60 60 If you are not a drinker and still want to enjoy the amazing food tasters, your ticket is only $15 as a designated driver. You will also receive free parking! If you do plan on partaking in the spirits of the festival and in order to keep you responsible, there will be free parking at Dana Hills High School available with a shuttle that will run every fifteen minutes to Lantern Bay Park. Taste of Brews, “pays homage to the passion and excitement that today’s full-flavored craft beers are generating among consumers while providing an exciting platform to introduce new styles” so get your tickets now to this upscale tasting event that offers a great variety of beers paired with a great location. The hours for Taste of Brew on October 15th are, VIP- 12PM to 4PM, General Admission is from 1PM to 4PM and Cool Down is from 4PM to 5PM. (During “Cool Down” the beer service will be replaced with water service.) For more information on Ocean Institute, it is available at www.oceaninstitute.org and for more infomtion on the Taste of Brews event please go to their website at www.tasteofbrews.com. STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 LOCAL EVENTS | ART & ENTERTAINMENT Hot Dog, Cool Customer WRITTEN BY DANIEL ALBERT W hat is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of an eating contest? Do you picture red and white tablecloths in an outdoor setting where gargantuan men shovel food into their mouths for fun? Well, maybe in the past, but this “ain’t” your daddy’s eating contest. TODAY’S EATING COMPETITORS ARE ATHLETES You may have seen eating contests before, but never one like this. This is no family picnic, this is hardcore hot dog eating at its best and above all else these competitors are athletes. They have training regimens, strategies and most of all a healthy dose of competition. SEPTEMBER 2011 CHALLENGE-COMPETITION On Labor Day 2011 ten top competitive eaters made their way to The Derby Deli & Dueling Piano Bar in Mission Viejo to compete in the most ultimate gastro-intestinal challenge the West Coast has ever seen. Among the favorite participants was quite possibly the most recognizable competitive eater in the world, Takeru Kobayashi, who stunned the world on July 4, 2001, when he ate 50 hot dogs in 12 minutes during his rookie appearance at the Nathan’s Coney Island hot dog-eating contest, doubling the previous record of 25. Many in the competitive eating game, including several opponents in the field at the WCHDEC, feel that Kobayashi is the one that put competitive eating on the map. When it was all over and the dust and hot dog crumbs settled, Kobayashi had swallowed 49 hot dogs in 10 minutes, netting him $5000 and the crown of the 3rd Annual West Coast Hot Dog-Eating Championship. Although not Kobayashi’s personal best, his total smashed the WCHDEC 2010 record of 29.5 hot dogs in 12 minutes by two-time first-place winner, Thomas “Goose” Gilbert. This year, with only a 10-minute clock, Gilbert came in second for $2500 with 29 hot dogs. Peter “Furious Pete” Czerwinski followed at third for $1000 with 25; Rich LeFevre at fourth for $750 with 23.75; Johnnie Excel at fifth for $500 with 22.75; and Naader Reda at sixth for $250 with 17. 62 62 PHOTOS BY SARAH M. BARDOWELL Not only did Kobayashi win handily over the field at the Derby, but he also promised to return again next year for an even more impressive performance. Kobayashi confirmed that he will compete in the 2012 WCHDEC and next year will be all about redemption. “I will be back to prove myself next year,” Kobayashi stated. “My entire focus will be on training for The Derby’s West Coast Championship and beating my own world record.” Kobayashi is currently the world record holder for most hot dogs eaten in 10 minutes with a record of 69, a feat that is almost unfathomable when his numbers are compared to his current opponents. Due to overwhelming interest from some of the world’s top-ranked eaters, including several contracted with The Derby’s East-Coast rival, the 2012 WCHDEC prize purse will double to $20,000. “Our goal is to bring in the highest level of competition as Kobi defends his title,” stated Dan Lauriano, owner of The Derby and founder of the WCHDEC. One of the main differences between the Derby’s contest and Nathan’s on the East-Coast is that Nathan’s is no longer an “open contest” so to speak. It’s hard to imagine that the level of competition is at its highest when only those contracted with an establishment are allowed to partake in the contest. Had those been the rules in 2001 when Kobayashi stunned the audience at Nathan’s, Kobayashi wouldn’t have even been allowed to partake, which is why The Derby is committed to keeping the contest open to anyone who thinks they can take on the champion and qualify for the competition. In fact, if you think you’ve got what it takes, the first of several open preliminary contests, leading up to the 2012 Championship next Labor Day, will be held on January 28, 2012 at The Derby Deli & Dueling Piano Bar. Information will be available at www.derbymv.com or by calling 949-582-5397. When it comes to competitive eating Takeru Kobayashi is Michael Jordan, Wayne Gretzky and Babe Ruth all rolled into one. After his dominating 2011 win, it’s hard to imagine just what he’s capable of and what he’ll bring into 2012. All we know is that this hot dog eating champion is one cool customer. STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 Book Your FREE Consultation TODAY! 949-276-2777 108 South El Camino Real ~ Downtown San Clemente Services Provided: - Botox - Juvederm Ultra Plus - Radiesse - HydraFacial - Chemical Peels - Microdermabrasion - Facials - Waxing - Brow Tinting - Lash Tinting - $75 20 FREE Units (Value of $220) (value of $135) Longer, Fuller, Darker Lashes Medical Grade Products & Services 15% *with purchase of Juvederm OFF *excluding Botox & Fillers *Call for Details { Offers Expire: 11/1/2011- Cannot be combined with other offers } { While Supplies Last } { Must Present Coupon at the Time of Purchase } www.seasideskincare.com The Hunt for TRAVEL & LEISURE | AT THE BIKE BIG OKTOBER WRITTEN BY DANIEL ALBERT O The Bike gears up for the 3rd installment of their mega millions series during Big Poker Oktober ctober is a month of many personalities. Some view it as the month where children dress up like their favorite monsters or fairies and go door to door soliciting tasty treats. Others view it as the coming of harvest, known in Germany as Oktoberfest, a seasonal celebration of bratwurst and beer. Some people even view it simply as the end of summer, when the weather starts to change and the leaves begin their autumn descent. However poker players in Southern California know October means one thing; Big Poker Oktober at the Bicycle Casino in Los Angeles. Big Poker Oktober is back and bigger than ever as the Bike get’s ready to drop a huge set of events that started back on September 20th leading up to the third installment of the Mega Millions Series, now through October 12th. The Bicycle Casino’s second installment of the Mega Millions series finished up at the beginning of September with the conclusion of their Legends of Poker series. Throughout the month of August, thousands of poker players passed through the Bicycle Casino’s doors in what can best be described as the “winningest” month of the year. The 2011 Legends of Poker WPT Championship prize pool overshadowed last year’s event by over a quarter million dollars. A total of 757 entrants competed for the $2,570,015 prize pool, and each day leading up to the final table of the main event was webcast live on the Bicycle Casino’s world famous LiveattheBike.com. 64 64 WPT Championship Cup for aspiring champions to admire for many years to come. After five days of continuous play, the final table was set in the early morning hours of Tuesday, August 30, 2011, following the elimination of Ray Henson in 7th place. Owais Ahmed, Adam Aronson, Ken “Teach” Aldridge, Jeffrey Vertes, Josh Pollock, and Will “The Thrill” Failla returned later that day to determine the ultimate winner. After action like that, it’s hard to follow up, but the Bike has done so with a tournament spanning 23 days and 42 events. As per the usual state of events Big Poker Oktober will feature a variety of poker styles to choose from including the classic No Limit Hold ‘Em as well as H.O.R.S.E, Omaha, Quantum Reload and Bounty events. Not only that but buy-ins start as low as $50 plus a one time fee of $15 for some events, making this series one that everyone can partcipate in. For the full schedule and buy-in information visit http://thebike.com. Will “The Thrill” Failla was all smiles as he shook hands and posed for the photographers. In addition to the title of World Poker Tour Champion, Failla took home the newly designed WPT Championship trophy, the Tiffany’s custom card protector, the Legends of Poker Wild Bill Hickok trophy and $758,085.00 in cash. Failla’s triumph will also be commemorated on the Whether you are excited to dress up and get some candy, looking forward to tasting some fine beer, or you’re just sick of the summer heat, October is going to be an exciting month. But while October might mean many different things to many different people, it only means one thing to poker players—the hunt for Big Poker Oktober. STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 M arket SASHA WITTE DESIGN & SASHA’S — LIVING WITH STYLE p lace SALON MEDUSA We are beauty professionals in pursuit of a higher art and natural beauty. “Make your home your favorite destination!” Full Service Salon. Open 7 days a week. 3237 East Broadway Long Beach, CA 90803 562.434.8824 sashawittedesign.com 562.427.79774232 Atlantic Ave. salonmedusalb.com SMALL BUT MIGHTY BrewBakers We may be small, but there’s nothing small about our services… DESIGN YOR OWN LABEL AT BREWBAKERS! Apply your label to beer, wine and/or soda!! Mobile Banking ATM Rebates Online Banking Great for the holidays and special events. 23601 Moulton Parkway, Ste. E Laguna Hills, CA 92653 949-461-5939 gbbanker.com 7242 Heil Avenue Huntington Beach, CA 92647 714-596-5506 brewbakers1.com BEACH BODY DESIGN JIM & CHRIS ITALIANO SUPERIOR TRAINING AND CONDITIONING Coldwell Banker Coastal Alliance • Sport Specific • Balance and Stability • Pilates • Core & Dynamic Function • Cardiovascular REAL ESTATE Dynamic Spouse Team. Over 45 combined years experience. Broker & Co-Owner Largest and #1 office in Long Beach. Web Site: italianohomes.com 562.961.1234 DRE License #00756275 #00964750 H&H Nursery (Offer ends October 31, 2011) LIVE ORANGE COUNTY Magazine 12 Issues - $24 24 Issues - $36 36 Issues - $45 Subscribe by phone or online. 6220 Lakewood Blvd. Lakewood, CA 90712 562.804.2513 hhnursery.com 241 Seal Beach Blvd., Seal Beach 562.430.1271 beachbodydesign.com 949.863.1114 liveorangecountymagazine.com MARKET PLACE Established in 1976, we offer over 5 acres of plants including a large selection of succulents and drought-tolerant plants for all your water-wise gardening needs. $99 Special FREE Three 1 hour Fitness + Personal Training or Evaluation Pilates Sessions Lose fat and enhance your life by looking and feeling your best! FACES & PLACES | LAST VIEW Vida Rodriguez Photographed By Hartono Tai 66 STYLE & BEAUTY | OCTOBER 2011 66