SICKA THAN AVERAGE

Pretty and Breezy in Tahiti

Is it me or does the ethereal-looking woman illustrated on the cover of CARGO's Tahiti eyeshadow palette (pictured above) resemble singer Nikka Costa? Or maybe it's just that the whole flower-covering-the-eye motif reminds me of her Can't Never Did Nothin' album cover (though Nikka technically has a butterfly hologram there, as opposed to a Chinese hibiscus!).

In any case, it really is a lovely piece of art — but the really beauty lies on the inside of this sleek palette. Inside you'll find four shimmering shades that you can layer on for mysterious, sensual eyes.

The blue/green eyeshadow quad incorporates a light, playful pear color; a more grounded hunter green hue; a mesmerizing Egyptian blue, and a deliciously cherry teal color.

Together, they recreate the vivid splendor of Tahiti's lush foliage (from its gently swaying palm trees to its dense rainforest and tiare flower plants), Moore's mountain ridges and deep blue seas, and Bora Bora's gorgeous oceanfront and lagoons.

Think of it as an ode to Tahiti — and join the celebration.

CARGO Tahiti eyeshadow quad, $28. Visit Sephora.com

U Need UNIF

Fashion is an elusive phenomenon. It's also — let's face it — a rather subjective matter. Wear plaid during one of its "out" moments and you'll be mercilessly taunted as a Paul Bunyon look-alike. Rock some cowboy boots when they're not the footwear of choice and you might just be called a long lost member of Wilson Phillips. Accessorize with too many layered chains and you'll hear a dozen Mr. T jokes.

See? You either have to be confident enough to develop your own personal style (whether it's understated or adventurous) and remain true to it — which means ignoring trendhumpers, bucking convention, and being content with receiving kudos only from folks who grasp your style — or you have to become a fashion devotee and remain up-to-date on what is and will be all the rage, even if it's just out of a fear of looking dated or foolish.

But maybe, just maybe, there's a third alternative. Maybe you can find a fashion line that will keep your closet full of fresh, current ensembles that also have a little funk to them (as opposed to being assembly line-style pieces that merely copy runway trends, without reinterpreting them in any fun way). If this sounds like an appealing alternative, allow me to introduce you to UNIF (the acronym stands for "Ur Not In Fashion"). UNIF Clothing was founded in 2004 by Los Angeles based designer Eric Espinoza to help fashion victims everywhere (thus the slogan, "Ur Not In Fashion....That's Why We're Here"). Though it started out as a men's line with a streetwear edge, Espinoza has expanded into ladies' fashion for the Holiday 2008/Spring 2009 season (which ships on Nov. 1st). The pieces are bright, colorful, energetic and edgy — whether it's a soft, faded tee with neon graphics recalling the aesthetic of '80s rock band T-shirts (think Def Leppard) or a hooded long-sleeved shirt.

Pictured above are some of my favorite pieces from the collection. The first is a red-and-black flannel dress with a heather gray hoodie. The idea is just genius — made of heavy-duty sweatshirt material, the hood adds an athletic feel while also rendering the piece urban. The elastic along the waistband, meanwhile, accentuates your natural curves and creates a fluid silhouette. Two square pockets along the sides add yet another utilitarian twist and, of course, the classic red-and-black print is as outdoorsy as it gets. Who said lumberjacks couldn't be hotties? Yup, this is perfect for any sassy lumberjill.

The other two items featured above are stunning tees. The first, the charcoal "Back Tat" tee features an illustration of a woman looking over her shoulder and on her back, of course, is a tattoo bearing the company slogan. Also note the eye-catching architectural shapes in the periphery. The concept of the tattoo art and architectural design meeting in one common place is very telling — in a way, it's subtly suggesting that fashion is where high-end and street art intersect. As far as the actual texture, this V-neck number is unbelievably soft to the touch. Seriously, it's incredibly lightweight and feel really cozy.

The second tee is the "Optic" tee in whit with black foil, which cleverly plays tricks on our eyes (you'll see the silhouette of a woman's nude body if you look closely at the black-and-white stripes). It' kitschy but glamorous and oh-so-cool.

Really, whether you're a style maven or not, you're not in fashion until you get up on UNIF.

Red Check Hooded Flannel Dress, $35; Charcoal "Back Tat" T-Shirt, $18. Optic White With Black Foil "Lay Out" T-shirt, $18. These styles are available starting 11/1. Visit UnifClothing.com

Soap Star

It's fitting, really, that Agraria's luxury bath bars are wrapped like tiny little presents, with a distinctive, gold foil-accented pattern designated to each fragrance, and tied with a satin ribbon woven through a posh gold buckle. See, these bath bars smell so incredible that they really do feel like gifts — whether you're bestowing that gift on a friend or on your own skin (and those lucky enough to be smelling it!)

Each 8.2 oz. bath bar is 100% vegetable base and includes such moisturizing agents as olive oil, vitamin E rich shea butter, yucca oil and kukui oil. Eight fragrances are available: Bitter Orange, Lemon Verbena, Lavender & Rosemary, Balsam, Mediterranean Jasmine (pictured above), Riviera Pear, Golden Pomegranate and Mission Fig.

The Mediterranean Jasmine fragrance incorporates its namesake bloom, of course, as well as blooming honeysuckle, freesia, gardenia buds, lily of the valley and tuberose, creating a succulent bouquet that's lush and regal.

Now, I'll admit that I'm usually more of a body wash kind of gal, but this bath bar definitely merited breaking my little rule. Not only is the smell enchanting, but when the soap lathers up, it yields creamy suds that glide on your skin, cleansing and moisturizing it at the same time.

Agraria Mediterranean Jasmine luxury bath bar, $18. Visit AgrariaHome.com

The Sisterhood of Traveling Gems

Drooling over the Slane & Slane baubles pictured here? Have you been coveting one of their famous bee rings? Dreaming of piling on a stack of perfectly sculpted bangles? Well, you no longer have to ogle at these gorgeous works of jewelry in the pages of high fashion magazines, sighing in frustration over yet another fashion dream deferred. No, ladies, a magnificent sale is coming to town — and we're not talking one of those fake, 3% off joints; this is the real deal, with prices slashed by 50 and 60%!

If you only know the line from overhearing its name being muttered during chit-chat at trendy, fashionable establishments, then allow me to school you. Slane & Slane is the brainchild of High Point, North Carolina-bred sisters Heath and Landon Slane, and its roots date back to 1995 when the sisters finally came together on a professional and artistic level to create unique designs informed by architecture, mythology and spirituality. From Aesop's The Tortoise and the Hare fable to Napoleon's usage of a bee emblem to underscore the vastness of his dynasty and the invention of the first wind generator in Vermont in 1941, the Slane sisters find inspiration in history books, nature, folklore and more.

Originally, the sisters sought out to craft exquisite silver jewelry, pieces as refined and innovative as their gold counterparts.Over the years, they've also expanded into gold and platinum pieces, incorporating different gemstones and embellishments. Drawing from their many travels and areas of interest, the sisters have launched over 25 unique collections. By utilizing the wax casting method (which involves casting and finishing each piece by hand), each offering boasts a wondrous, artisan-esque look that makes it feel all the more valuable.

Want to purchase one of these inspired pieces? Well, lucky New Yorkers can go to the Slane & Slane sale kicking off tomorrow, Sept. 30th and wrapping up Thursday, Oct. 2nd.

Here are the details:

Date & Time:
Tuesday, September 30 from 2pm to 6pm
Wednesday, October 1st from 11am to 6pm T
hursday, October 2nd from 11am to 6pm

Location:
       The Warwick Hotel
65 West 54th Street – The Oxford Suite, 2nd Floor
(Entrance on 54th Street at the NE Corner of 6th Avenue)

Payment:
       Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Cash

Pretty Women Need Pretty Little Totes

New-York based designer Lirany Vasquez has continuously dazzled me over the last five years with her cheeky-and-cute jewelry line, Pretty Little Thing (isn't that the greatest name?), which incorporates unexpected materials (wood, acrylic, gold vermeil, antique silver, rhodium plating, glass, jet wood horns, brass, etc.) and a vast array of offerings that cover every gal's go-to look — from goth rocker to Bohemian chic, disco diva, beach goddess, hip-hop b-girl and uptown princess.

Now, she's expanding her horizons with the launch of PLTotes, a collection of 100% canvas featuring whimsical, edgy designs. The totes measure 15" by 15" so you can carry all your goodies in there: large Fiji water bottle, makeup bag, keys, planner, book, etc.

Pictured above are two of my favorite designs: "Spider Heart," which has a cryptic, surreal quality to it, and "Nueva York," an understated design with a loud-and-clear message (mainly, that Latinos are here to stay! Yes, folks, we're loud and we're proud, so we suggest you join our movement because, well, it's way more fun over here!"). All jokes aside, Vasquez designed the "Nueva York" tote as an ode to New York City's multicultural population and, of course, in honor of all her fellow Latinas.

See why the "Pretty Little Thing" name is so fitting for her? Yes, she's one fierce lady!

Extra good news for Sicka Than Average readers: You'll receive a 15% discount on any Pretty Little Thing purchase from today until Oct. 7th. All you have to do to redeem the coupon is enter the code "STA" at checkout. Enjoy your goodies!

Pretty Little Thing "Spider Heart" and "Nueva York" totes, $25 each. Visit PLTNYC.com.To redeem 15% off coupon, enter "STA" code at checkout.

Sail Away, Sail Away

Okay, as soon as I thought about sailing, that annoying Enya song popped into my head (the one referenced in the title). Hopefully, it hasn't gotten stuck in your head too!

Anyhoo, let's talk sailing and shoes. One of the biggest footwear trends this past spring and summer were boat shoes. They seemed to pop up everywhere, with imitations of the classic Sebago and Sperry Top-Spider models  in fluorescent hues and blinding metallics appearing at stores like Rainbow, Strawberry's, Payless and countless other El Cheapo stores (note: not an actual retail chain). But when it comes to this classic shoe silhouette, there's no one who can do it justice like the companies who have coddled yacht enthusiasts over the years.

But, of course, since their shoes have mainly been performance-oriented, as these styles have become fashionable items, manufacturers have sought to expand their offerings to include, first and foremost, a more diverse array of color options. Sebago's Docksides, which feature slip-resistant soles, rawhide laces and non-corrosive brass eyelets, are available this fall in such new hues as: Navy, Ice (an off-white hue), Saddle Tan, Brown Elk (a deep brown with reddish undertones), Aqua (a gorgeous light blue shade), Red and Kiwi Green (a funky key lime green shade).

Pictured above is the Sebago Dockside shoe in Red — the color is a deep terra cotta shade that's ideal for the earthy palettes of most fall wardrobes. Hey, you may not be prepared to take out those fall boots just yet, so why not indulge your inner sailor and keep your toes covered up, nautical style?

Sebago Docksides in Red, $85. Visit Sebago.com

Lashing Out

How many times have you looked at a man with lashes so long it feels like they're gonna lasso you right in and thought, "Wow, why does he get lashes like that and I don't? He's a dude!! How unfair!" If this sounds familiar, then let me say two things: 1) stop being a hater: he's working those lashes too, believe it or not; and 2) no need to lament the nature of your short, stubby lashes now that the market is full of products promoting healthy lash growth!

One of the biggest crazes in beauty over the last two years has been lash conditioners and treatments. After all, what woman doesn't want to bat her eyelashes coyly?

The only drawback: these conditioning serums tend to be rather costly. DermaQuest Skin Therapy's DermaLash retails for $90, GloMinerals' GloLash costs $145, and RevitaLash Eyelash Conditioner will set you back $150. Since these tubes will last you about a month (two months tops), it's a hefty investment akin to, say, paying another monthly cell phone bill. But no need to despair. Thanks to RapidLash, a paraben-free eyelash renewal serum that promises longer, fuller, and healthier lashes in just 30 days, you don't have to break the bank to pamper your eyes.

The process is simple enough: you brush a thin coat onto your upper lash line (not the actual lashes, but the line on your actual eyelid — right where you'd apply some eyeliner) after cleansing your skin at night time. If you're also coveting longer lashes along your bottom lids, you can also apply the serum to your lower lash line (though you do have to be extra careful when doing so to avoid direct eye contact). The serum doesn't itch or tingle, and it won't irritate the skin around your eyes.

So what's in it? Well, the serum contains polypeptides to amplify volume and prevent breakage, panthenol and other minerals and vitamins to nourish and fortify, and moisturizing agents like pumpkin seed extract, licorice extract and allatoin to give your lashes that healthy luster.

Now, I've actually been using this product rather religiously and I have definitely noticed some growth and increased fullness. At first I figured it was just wishful thinking but then it became really noticeable. Just make sure to commit to your daily routine. This product won't be quite as efficient if you just use it every now and again. Also, be patient, my little grasshoppers. It takes about 3 weeks before you'll notice any results, so stay with it and have some faith — you'll be a believer in the end.

The best news yet? RapidLash will be available at CVS stores starting in November.

RapidLash Eyelash Renewal Serum, $49.95. Visit RapidLash.com

Goji Berry, not Yogi Bear

This could quite possibly be the oddest headline to come out of my quirky, warped little brain, but there actually is an explanation behind it (yes, there's usually a method to my madness, however bizarre it may be!): for some reason, no matter hoe hard I try to escape making this association, whenever I hear or say the words "goji berries," I think of Yogi Bear. Silly, right? Well, hey, Yogi communed with nature and he was a healthy dude so I guess it's somewhat fitting! ha!

But let's get back to the business of beauty. Pangea Organics is one of the most advanced and forward-thinking eco-centric skincare brand -- seriously, they concoct effective formulas incorporating different fruits, plants, and vegetables and, in months, other companies are hopping on the bandwagon and turning these natural finds into beauty "buzz words" (cardamom, Italian blood orange, lemongrass, and Egyptian geranium are all prime examples). So it should only be a matter of time before rivals start borrowing the ingredients from Pangea Organics' Japanese Matcha Tea Face Mask With Acai and Goji Berry.

Now, let's start by covering some of these amazing ingredients. Matcha green tea has actually been gaining in popularity (I've already raved about the Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins "Way of the Bath" Matcha Tea Body Soak and how incredibly relaxing it is) and will surely be making more appearances in new product launches. As far as its health benefits, Matcha is said to help the body clear itself of any unnecessary toxins and to be rich in antioxidants; it's also often used in meditation because it clears the mind of any distractions while increasing awareness. 

Acai (pronounced ah-sah-eee), meanwhile, is a drupe (a fleshy berry with a grape-like appearance) that's cultivated throughout Southern America, especially in Brazil and Peru. Acai berries pack five times more antioxidants than gingko balboa, which helps to combat free radicals and premature aging. They're also rich in Vitamin E, and Omega 9, Omega 3, and Omega 6 fatty acids (which increase healthy cell development and therefore have a rejuvenating effect). Dr. Perricone has heralded this as a "superfood" in the media, and such companies as Tarte and Fresh have released new lip glosses and body creams incorporating acai.

Finally, we've got goji berry, a bright, orange-red fruit that is often utilized in its dried, raisin-like form. Also called wolfberries,they're often found in the south of China. It's actually common for Chinese women to ground these berries and apply them onto their skin for a brightening, anti-aging treatment. They're incredibly nutritious, packed with more vitamin C than oranges, more beta carotene than carrots (which helps against skin damage and helps the cardiovascular system), and more iron than most meats. The nutrient-rich fruits carry more antioxidants per serving than kale, prunes, raisins, spinach, and other highly nourishing fruit and leafy vegetables. It's precisely because they're so rich in anti-oxidants that they assist with warding off the signs of aging, giving us smoother and more replenished skin.

Together, these three ingredients make this Pangea Facia mask an absolute treat. The crushed berries add a gentle exfoliant element to the mask, which is a deep dark green (seriously, we're talking Herman Munster, style! LOL). Once it dries and you rinse your skin out, your skin will feel soft, supple and refreshed -- not to mention radiant. So check out the best nature has to offer in this groundbreaking mask!

Pangea Organics Japanese Matcha Tea Facial Mask with Acai and Goji Berry, $35. Visit PangeaOrganics.com

The Baddest Chicks

Even if you're the most low-maintenance woman in the universe and your travel essentials consist of merely a toothbrush and toothpaste, some face wash and face lotion and a tiny tube of lip gloss, you still need to carefully store your bathroom cabinet refugees somewhere, right? I mean, if you've ever just tossed a bottle of shampoo in your carry-on, only to find that it's exploded all over your precious clothes, then you're more than familiar with the need for a sturdy cosmetics bag (and no, tossing these items inside a plastic supermarket bag won't work either!). And, if you're a high maintenance nightmare (like me!), then you're probably traveling with a drawer's worth of eyeshadow, lipstick, mascara, makeup primer, liner, lip gloss and more. And, do you really want to buy one of those translucent cosmetic bag horrors they sell at Duane Reade (the ones with the dorm room-ready stripes or the cheesy pink stiletto designs? yuck!)? Nope, not at all.

Enter Trina— no, not the Southern rapper (though the headline is most definitely ashout-out to her); the chic accessories and cosmetics handbag company. The line focuses on bringing busy bee, jet-setting women affordable bags that are functional and fashionable. From hanging valets to square weekenders, frame purses, clutches, duffles, train cases, square organizers and purse kits, Trina offers a variety of shapes and styles catering to specific on-the-go needs. And, of course, the styles are matched by the sassy prints, which speak to the personal aesthetics of a wide-ranging female audience. Whether it's through minimalist stripes Pucci-esque fabrics, or sleek metallic hues, Trina bags manage to stay on top of the latest off-the-runway trends. Manufactured by Allegro, these are expertly crafted pieces with such convenience-driven features as removable pouches, zippered pockets and space dividers.

For Fall/Winter 2008, Trina once again tailored a collection of bags inspired by the hottest trends in couture. Among others, there's: the Bohemian Chic line, which offers hippie-but-pretty floral prints; On the Loose, with its fierce animal prints; and Get In Line, with its bright, geometric patterns.

Pictured here is one of the stand-outs, the fabulous "Neo-Geo" clutch, which is deliciously bright (peep the lemon, orange and raspberry sorbet colors), adding a bit of summer whimsy to those drab fall days. I, of course, have an added affinity for it since my son's nickname is Gio, so this one is near and dear to my heart ;) But, really, personal attachments aside, this design packs quite a punch.

Trina Neo-Geo Clutch, $45. Call 1.800.833.5562 to find a retailer near you.

Save the Date!

Psych! This is not an invitation to an event — I tricked y'all with the headline, huh? Aww, don't make some ol' sourpuss face now; I'm sure we'll be having some great Sicka Than Average events in the future. Until then, though, let's talk about other events you gals so desperately want to remember: no, not the office holiday party, your dentist appointment, or your homegirl's wedding (though make sure not to forget any of these either!). We're talking about the dates that mark momentous events, things like: your children's birthdays, your wedding anniversary, or your college graduation. Whatever Kodak moment it may be, I'm sure a wave of nostalgia just swoops you up as you reminisce about it. So why not immortalize that moment on a beautiful piece of jewelry?

Not Just Any Old Day sets out to commemorate these dates (and the memories they hold) through its calendar keepsake pieces, each of which can be personalized to identify a particular month and date. Each sterling silver calendar piece measures 3/4" in width and 3"4" in height, and features a Swarovski crystal marking the calendar date in question. The calendar charm has an old-world finish to it that adds a refined touch. A number of options are available: from a money clip to a necklace pendant, key ring, letter opener, funky cuff (like the one pictured above). When you order your piece, you'll choose the specific month and date from the drag-down menu and, in addition, you can select the color of the Swarovski crystal that will be used (options include: dark ruby, dark amethyst, emerald, aquamarine, sapphire, peridot, light ruby, yellow topaz, rose and light amethyst). The whole process takes less than a minute (hooray for time efficiency!)

It's a great buy for yourself (and how I wish more women went this route instead of tattooing dates on their arms! I mean, I love tattoos, but that just seems retarded!) after you've accomplished a wonderful feat (yes, sometimes we need to give ourselves kudos, a'ight?). It's a also an ideal gift for Sweet Sixteens, weddings, Mother's Days, anniversaries, graduations, and more.

Oh, and apparently, Tori Spelling wears two pendants (each on its own chain) to celebrate the births of her two kids. Hmmmm... Wonder if six-time mommy Angelina Jolie would look funny with six calendar necklaces?

Solid Sterling Silver Wide Cuff and Charm, $253; Visit NotJustAnyOldDay.com