David Cook

On November 6, 2011, David Cook was in town with Gavin DeGraw. David Cook won American Idol in 2008.  I immediately fell for his rocker edge image and fabulous voice.  On Idol he seemed humble and normal.  After Sunday’s concert, I can confirm that fame hasn’t jaded his personality.  He made jokes, played with the audience, and created the music true to what you hear on his tracks.

Concerts are different now.  Years back no flash photos or videos were allowed.  Now you have to look past the person in front of you using his iPhone to capture the night.  Sometimes people don’t stand but, instead, chair dance.  If they do stand, the people behind them become upset.  A middle-aged woman wearing a feather clip in her hair actually shushed me.  I thought, Am I in church or at a concert?  The people around us laughed and said, “Did she just scold you for talking?”

We were at the Palace Theater in Cleveland, Ohio.  Perhaps that venue demands more formal etiquette than I was aware of compared to The Q.  We decided to leave early and there, in the lobby, stood David Cook’s band.  They were walking out, just as we were.  I took the opportunity to express how great they had sounded and asked, “How is it with an auditorium full of people you can just walk out unnoticed?”  They said it was easy because the audience was too busy listening to Gavin.  I had hoped to meet David to tell him what an inspiration he is to me, but talking to his band for a few minutes was equally as thrilling.

A year after David won Idol, he experienced a family tragedy.  He lost his brother, Adam Cook, to brain cancer.  Adam was 37 years old.  David wrote a song titled “Permanent” in Adam’s memory.  I, too, lost my brother after a brief illness a year ago next month.  To see David on stage moving forward with his dream, despite the loss of his loved one, proves that life goes on.  My brother Jim was also 37.  He was my best friend and one of my BIGGEST fans.  Although this blog doesn’t contain much information pertaining to beauty, it is a means to urge you to obtain your dream and never give up on it.  If you have a talent, share it.  If you have something to say, just say it.  You may never get another chance.  Life is short.  Be happy.

Karen Siat

Karen Siat 

THE BUZZ

Back in June, I was asked to be Russell Simmons' makeup artist and stylist.  We made rounds to all of the Cleveland television stations, so Russell could display his jewelry line and promote a drawing that would later take place at a local mall.  The last station stop was WOIO Channel 19.  There, a handsome man named Chris in a suit assisted us in the studio.  I thought to myself, could this be an intern?  He began to help carry the advertising staff’s suitcase down a flight of stairs.  These gals knew who Chris was while I, on the other hand, was clueless.

Chris Van Vliet was the interviewer Russell was scheduled to talk with on air.  I couldn’t believe how helpful this anchor was even while dressed in his on-air ensemble.  It really left a good impression on me.  Chris is the host of The BUZZ on WOIO.  He is an entertainment reporter.  Fast forward three weeks and I see on my schedule that Chris will be in for a photography session.  Thinking it was for his WOIO job, I thought he would most likely to be dressed in similar business attire.  Upon seeing him, I realized I was very wrong.  Chris had been nominated for Cosmopolitan Magazine's Sexiest Bachelor!  No word on Facebook or blogs could be leaked about this until fall.  Eric Mull was taking the photographs.  We headed down to Cleveland’s lakefront at Edgewater Beach for the background.  This shirtless photo of Chris is the real “BUZZ “in C TOWN.

I had a chance to ask Chris a few questions of my own while styling his shoot, which I would like to share.  Chris is from Pickering, Ontario.  It is a suburb of Toronto. He has a love of fishing that started when he was four years old. He told me, “If it swims, I will catch it.”  Bass fishing is his favorite and he enters several tournaments each year.

I am all into being healthy and wanted to know how he got those abs!  With weights and cardio workout five times a week as well as a high protein/low carbohydrate diet, he maintains his enviable washboard stomach.  I got a real sense of what a gentleman Chris is working with him.  I encourage you to follow the link below to vote for him in Cosmo’s Sexiest Bachelor Contest.  Voting ends October 16th.  If Chris wins the title, he is going to donate his $10,000.00 check to The Boys and Girls Club of Cleveland.  I asked him why he is donating his winnings.  He said, “It is an easy choice to donate to such an incredible organization, especially since Action 19 News has done a lot of work with these special kids in the past.”  Ladies if you are single, this guy is a real catch!

 http://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/bachelors-2011/bachelors-2011-ohio

A little footnote to this story Chris did win the title and followed thru with the donation of his winnings. Good job Chris!

Eric Mull

Chris Van Vliet

Eric Mull

Drugstore vs. Department Store

Makeup has many price points and I am asked all the time, “Where should I spend my money and where can I save?”  Makeup is a product that has been around since ancient times.  While makeup was being developed, almond and nuts oils were used. Face creams of ostrich eggs were ingredients that made the product more exclusive and, thus, a higher price.  Today this trend continues.  Products claiming AMAZING results are rich in ingredients that contribute to the higher price of the cosmetic or treatment.  Abundant ingredients have a price point that is more economical.  Here is my opinion on the product worth.

In the case of skincare, SPLURGE!  Nothing looks better than great skin.  Sunscreen is crucial for women over 25 to wear under foundation.  Even if it is in your foundation already, you are layering SPF protection.  On cleanser, SPLURGE!  Water does only so much.  If you wear foundation, cleanser is a MUST.   If you are in love with the results you are getting from your product, don’t ditch it or switch it up just because you are bored.  You will know when it is the right time to change.  When purchasing foundation, think BUDGET!  This may take some time to find, but there are great drugstore ones out there.  You ask, “WHY is this?”  This is true because high end cosmetic companies also sell low end in the form of other names.  Just be careful of parabens or glycerin. These ingredients can cause allergic reactions such as swelling or rash.  Some products you may want are better fragrance free.  Otherwise, you may experience watery eyes or sneezing.

When obtaining powder, BUDGET!  This is for the same reason as foundation.  Mascara should be purchased with BUDGET in mind.  There are wonderful formulas at the drugstore. Make sure to look for water resistant, waterproof, or sensitive if you wear contacts.  The correct formula to great mascara is in part the application wand.  It will really be the true tale of how your lashes appear.  With eyeliner, SPLURGE!  Many times eyeliner runs or evaporates.  So if you find a good one, keep it.  Eye shadow is another SPLURGE!  Cheap eye shadow does not have pigments that will stay in place.  Make sure you purchase an eye shadow primer, if you pick a low end shadow.

Blush can be on a BUDGET!  You can get wonderful cream formulas in the drugstore as well as powder blush.  However, with lipstick it’s a tie between SPLURGE and BUDGET.  Ingredients in lip color vary.  If you have an event, SPLURGE!  For everyday lipstick, you can head over to the drugstore.  Make sure, if you need transfer resistant, to purchase a stain.  For dry lips, a moisture formula or tinted lip balm is best.  If you’re outdoors at the beach, a SPF lip gloss is a good pick.  Lastly, lip liner is a BUDGET item but watch for liners that do not glide.  You will have to sharpen it until there is more in the sharpener than on your lips.  Keep in mind, many drugstores have a policy stating you can try it and return it if you don’t like it.  So, what the heck?  You may stumble on a deal or you might say, “What was I thinking?” Head right back to the cosmetic counter at the drug store or department store.  Just keep in mind my advice.  Hopefully, it will be a product that you are happy with and feel good about how much money you spent on it.  Do you have a favorite product?  Contact me and I will share it with readers. 

The Avengers

In August, Cleveland became Hollywood...Midwest style.  The Avengers movie began filming downtown.  I put in my resume months ago, but did not get a call to be part of the stylist team for the movie.  I do know a lot of the crew came in from LA, so I was not too upset that I wasn't called.  However, it would have been an amazing experience.  The North Coast will be part of at least 11 films this year alone; all scheduled to be filmed here in Cleveland.  With the Ohio Film Tax Credit, film companies are putting us on top of their destination list for filming.  The Cleveland Film Commission states that their mission is, “to promote the increase of media production in Northeast Ohio using effective strategies for attraction and workforce development including an artistic infrastructure through film.”

Some of my friends were cast as extras.  One played a scientist and was bussed to Toledo for filming.  Another was in a scene running through downtown while things were blowing up around her.  In the midst of running, another woman fell and was nearly trampled.   An ambulance was even called for her.  Most set details have been hush-hush. Making this type of blockbuster hit, production doesn’t want to risk ANYTHING getting out about the plot.

Movie makers say 20% of the film will be shot in Cleveland.  Many people have flocked to E. 9th Street or Public Square to get a glimpse of the set and try to see a cast member.  This is all new to Clevelanders, but I predict very soon it will be another ordinary occurrence.  Those of us working downtown will be complaining about how it is inconvenient to get around the city streets with closures and traffic backups.  Right now everyone seems happy, but more movies mean more traffic messes and setbacks for commuters.  Hopefully those complaints won't convince Hollywood that we don't want them here.  Our economy in the former steel belt capital is struggling so much that ANY business we can sustain will be a great kick start to the future of the NEW Cleveland, which city planners are actively working towards and proud Clevelanders applaud.

Photo credit: MetroMix

Extra's snapshots

Ten Fashion No No's

As I spend time back-to-school shopping, I find myself in a mall people watching as I wait for my girls to make their purchases.  I see a whole lot of fashion blunders walking past me, so I decided to use this as my next blog. 

Please note:  I am NOT the fashion police!  If you are my friend or associate and are guilty of any of these mistakes, I WILL still own up to knowing you.  I do know there is such a thing as a BAD fashion day.  All I ask of you on one of those bad days is before you step out of your house, step in front of a mirror first.

MY TOP TEN!

10. If you wore an article of clothing 20 years ago and even if it is seemingly back in style, DO NOT wear it again! Example: Leg warmers, Tie Dye shirts, ANYTHING that looks like it was once owned by Madonna, etc.
9. If you are over 25 years old, DO NOT show your belly off with a midriff shirt in public.  This is especially true for men.
8. If you have been to the beach and have white tan lines around your eyes from your sunglasses, please use concealer to make it less noticeable when going to an event.
7. Make sure your clothes fit. 
 Example: Men's jeans that are too long and slouch near the ankles or don't fit the rear end are not “IN.”
6. Hawaiian shirts should ONLY be worn at a pig roast or in Hawaii.
5. If at all possible, DO NOT wear high heels that are chipped or worn out.  That just isn't HOT

4. Don't wear lip liner darker than the lipstick.  They should blend together. 

3. Don't wear dark eye shadow AND dark lipstick.
2. Make sure your foundation is matched to your skin type.  NO line from your face to your neck should exist. 
1. If you’re over 30, DO NOT wear your hair in a high ponytail with a scrunchy UNLESS you are working in the garden

We all slip into our comfy clothes, which have worn out but we just can't bring ourselves to throw away, sometimes around the house.  These articles remind us of our youth or bring back memories of another time.  However, some people seem to think the old look is still working for them and then go out in public.  I am here to say, “It is out of style!”  To create a better you, ditch the palm trees on your shirts and get a great pair of jeans that fit.  Just maybe you will run into a trendy girl that wears........ leg warmers. ;)

Breaking News!

I have heard from many newscasters that there is no budget for makeup in Cleveland television, so it’s every woman for herself.  In the past, many of the on camera personnel developed a style and didn't want to change.  In current times, anchors are asking for help or maybe just watching the DVR and making tweaks on their own.  On air lip color needs to be brought down and a bronzer is better than a blush.  Eye makeup needs to be a bit heavier; yet, full fake lashes are too much for the news.

A few years back, I was lucky enough to go to Washington D.C. and be Kelly O'Donnell's makeup artist for Cleveland Magazine.  Kelly is a native of Cleveland; she was a reporter for WJKW Ch 8 years back and now she works as a White House Correspondent for NBC Nightly News.  On that day, her shoot was postponed an hour due to loss of power at her home.  She was apologetic and frazzled while running in late.  Kelly expressed to us how tardiness isn't her forte'.  I had an hour and a half to spend with Kelly.  She was very friendly and open to my suggestions on styling.  I did have styling instructions from the magazine, and Kelly was a trooper through the shoot.  Upon departure from the studio, we left behind a huge crate of lights on the curb.  It wasn't noticed by security until we were 55 minutes away.  This really extended the trip going back, but the final picture was so stunning that one quickly moves past the set backs faced during the day.

In Cleveland, anchors and weather forecasters are asked to be at fairs, parades, charity auctions, and, sometimes, on magazine covers.  Betsy Kling, Maureen Kyle, Kimberly Gill, and Andrea Vecchio are all "cover girls" from Cleveland Magazine shoots, which I have been part of in the past.  All of the women brought such energy and grace to the shoots.  With a few outfit changes, one forgets they are news reporters and not fashion models.  A few months back, I was hired to take care of Robin Swaboda.  I must say, she was so VERY nice.  She said to me, "So what is your story?"  We talked as if we had met before.  My Grandma Charlotte LOVED Robin and I told her how excited she would have been if she was still alive to hear I was meeting her.  It was actually my own “Breaking News” that I was there.

As a young girl I liked watching the news.  As an adult I still watch, but do so online.  I am still a viewer today because I have met so many of these women.  I have connected with them and some now are even my friends. Regardless if the news is sad one day or weather will be ugly, the newscasters hold it all together.  They try not to panic the public, but inform or warn us.  Looking good counts, but really it's their sincerity that keeps us tuning in.

Eric Mull/Karen Siat

Red Carpet

It is almost the end of the school year and there are a lot of events coming up for high school students; prom and commencement lead off the list.  Many young women hunt for that perfect dress and shoes.  Pictures in magazines of hair and makeup help with style ideas.  Today’s post is not about the talent business, but helpful hints for women that want to look as if they walked off the red carpet. 

Maybe you’re thinking you would like to emulate Gwen Steffani’s red lips or Halle Berry’s chic style.  Once you have a vision for your look, it will be easier to narrow down your wardrobe.  Keep in mind shoes, when you find the dress of your dreams.  Are you a gal that never wears heels?  Is this because you can’t even walk in stilettos?  Maybe it is best to do a flat or ballet slipper shoe.  You will be more comfortable and confident.  To spend a lot of money for an uncomfortable pair of shoes is not the answer.  Use your money to accessorize with a great purse or jewelry instead.  Take a parent or friend with you to get opinions on your dress selection.  Sometimes the style might be great, but the color just washes the color out of your face.  Undergarments are important. A strapless bra, the right underwear, or Spanks will smooth out your body shape, so your dress will glide on.

As for your hair, pick a style that is you. If you always wear your hair straight and down maybe switch it up and wear it down but curly.  If your hair is curly, maybe pin some back off your face and keep the curls.  Makeup should be fun.  If you have problem skin, keep in mind not to pile on too much foundation.  This will make it look worse, not better.  Always put on your makeup in natural light.  Use concealer on the blemishes after your foundation is on.  Powder is very important to keep the shine down, so you won’t look oily for pictures.  To keep eye shadow from creasing throughout the day, apply foundation to your eyelids or an eye primer before putting on the eye shadow. Keep in mind that 2, maybe 3, colors are enough to have on your lid.  Any more than that will look busy.  Waterproof mascara and eyeliner is best for the day.

Lip color is sometimes hard to keep from fading.  A tinted lip balm is great for girls that don’t like sticky lips.  It will smooth the lips and have a hint of color.  A lip stain is a great option.  No reapplying is needed with this product, but I do suggest a gloss over it to avoid a dry feeling on your lips.  When you pick a lipstick, consider my long wear secret: apply a neutral lip liner to the whole lip, blot it, brush powder over it, and then apply your lipstick.  Bronzer is another great product.  Apply it last and where the sun would hit your face, but don’t over do it or you will look streaked.  After a few hours at your event, do a quick touch up.  Make sure to check your teeth and lip color after you eat.  The main thing to remember is to have fun.  Some events are only once in your life, take it all in.

Eric Mull/ Karen Siat

Eric Mull/ Karen Siat

Eric Mull/ Karen Siat