Better TV Blog » Fashion & Beauty

So “Shoe” me!

mjennings — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 01:49:52 +0000

You may be surprised to learn that I love, love, did I mention love, shoes… and lots of them. Hello everyone, meet the male “Carrie Bradshaw” of shoes.

It’s not my fault. Thanks to my Mother, my appreciation and obsession began as a young boy with my very first pair(s) of Buster Brown’s. She bought me three pairs and made me promise not to tell my brothers or my Father.

Today, you don’t have to be a woman to love shoes. A good shoe collection is an essential part of any gentleman’s wardrobe. I know shoes do not define the man (or woman), but boy can they tell you a lot about a person. Put it to the test by checking out the footwear of the next man or woman you see. Are they wearing sneakers? Are they corporate? Are they stylish? And most importantly, are they clean and/or polished? Then ask them what they do for a living. The shoes should match the person’s career.

No matter where I go, I always take plenty of shoes. My buddy Dave and his wife are visiting me this weekend and he too, has the male shoe bug. My pal Jason’s wife keeps telling me to please not encourage her husband with my shoe acquisition program. Both friends are creative, successful business men that also happen to enjoy the benefits of owning a good shoe collection.

As for the single ladies out there, when your Prince Charming comes along carrying that glass slipper for you to try on, make sure you check out his shoes first.

Christi Harris on Perfect Eyebrows

Lesley — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 19:34:54 +0000

We did eyebrow makeovers today with beauty expert Christi Harris. Since I have pretty prominent brows myself and honestly carry my tweezers with me everyday, I understand the maintenance of perfect eyebrows. Harris designed a kit herself that lets you fill your brows in with a few natural colors that have fibers in it so it looks like you’re adding hair instead of just brown makeup lines. Plus, she taught us all how to shape your brows correctly, without using a sticker. She even tweeked mine. www.christiharrisbrows.com

Supermodel Molly Sims Jewelry

Lesley — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 15:54:11 +0000

From supermodel to actress, now Molly Sims is a jewelry designer too. She stopped by our studio to talk about the launch of her “Grayce” collection. The name is inspired by her mother, who tells the triple threat to live her life with grace always. I’d say she does, considering Sims took a red eye flight from LA to our NYC studio and managed to look fabulous all while being super nice to boot. The collection is budget friendly with a vintage retro vibe. I’m wearing one of her necklaces above, along with a beautiful dress from Lord and Taylor — and Molly is sporting about five different ones because she loves layering them www.graycebymollysims.com. Sims also confessed that she hasn’t given up on acting but is now waiting for the right part to come along.

Hair Makeovers by Riccardo Maggiore

Lesley — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 21:02:04 +0000

Don’t you just love hair makeovers, I do! Well today, we filmed 4 men getting new hair do’s, coiffed by celebrity stylist Riccardo Maggiore. Sure, most guys I know, would never ask for a style like Tom Cruise, Robert Pattinson, Brad Pitt or Bradley Cooper, but Maggiore says that’s what he’s doing the most of these days. The results were fab, regardless of if they actually look like that celeb. Plus, remember when Sarah Jessica Parker goes brunette at the end of the first “Sex and The City” movie, this is the salon she goes to www.RiccardoMaggiore.com.

Touched by an Angel

mjennings — Thu, 20 May 2010 00:55:32 +0000

Last weekend I had the pleasure to be a guest speaker for the Theatre of New Canaan’s Spring Awakening benefit at Le Beau Chateau, in New Canaan, Connecticut. The room was full of fabulous table-top designs by notable interior designers. The designs were inspired by popular Broadway shows such as “A Secret Garden,” “Jekyll & Hyde,” “Peter Pan,” “Phantom of the Opera” and “A Little Night Music.” These unusual tabletops offered a unique and inspirational environment for my lecture. I was also excited to work so close to home so I gave my assistant the day off and invited good friend Barbara, who was in town for the weekend.

My seersucker suit and spectator shoes were no match for Barbara’s heavenly white ensemble complete with a hint of magical sparkle and six-inch Michael Kors platform sandals. We made a good looking couple so we grabbed Miss Violet and off we went on a family road trip to New Canaan for the afternoon.

It’s been nearly 60 years since the chateau opened its doors to the public. So, I was very excited to arrive early and take a walk through and experience a touch of France. Situated on 52 acres and bought by Huguette Clark in 1952, it has sat unfurnished and unoccupied since then. Built in 1937 in French manor style, it is complete with a grand staircase, tall ceilings and multiple fireplaces. And now with my passport renewed, what better way to kick-start my European holiday tomorrow.

We arrived early to see the vignettes and decided to have some lunch on the patio where there is a delightful bistro menu. As we sat down, a woman next to us asked, “Are you Mar Jennings? Yes,” I replied. Then she proceeded to tell me how much she loved my book and how it helped her during a difficult time in her life. “Your book saved my life– the photos and your writing got me through it all. Your passion and love for gardening has changed my life.” I got up and gave her a big kiss and told her how touched I was.

Truth be told, Life On Mar’s, A Four Season Garden was dedicated to Edward R. Smith, my mentor and devoted friend, whose encouragement and wisdom, helped secure my life’s foundation. So if I can, in any way, help others find that same love and passion along the way, well then, my “guardian angel” has made another dream of mine come true.
We ended the event with lots of press photos and a book signing but my mind continued to wander back to that amazing woman on the patio. It wasn’t long ago, when I too, was touched profoundly by someone. Now, years later, if I can do the same–well then I have truly been “touched by an angel”.

Catch up with Mar–read more at www.marjennings.com

My Miracle on 34th Street by Mar Jennings

mjennings — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 14:48:23 +0000

If you’ve ever seen—or heard of—the famous movie “Miracle on 34th Street”, you know it’s all about how something wonderful happens at Macy’s in New York City, on Christmas. While it certainly isn’t the Christmas season now, I think I can claim to have had my own “something wonderful” recently.

When my assistant told me that the wonderful people from Macy’s Special Events were inquiring about my availability for this year’s Macy’s Flower Show at Herald Square, I paused for a moment to reflect on the significance of the date. It would mark five years to the day when my dearest friend and flower aficionado Edward passed away. It seemed fitting in a way, since the Flower Show and Spring both symbolize re-birth. Of course I told my staff to clear my calendar and make it happen. Just thinking about participating in this world-renowned and iconic show made my heart skip a beat. Edward would be so proud of this achievement as it was he who pushed me to follow me passion.

That said, this years theme “Spring Is In The Air” transformed Macy’s into a wonderland of spectacular gardens where magic reached new heights and floral fantasies took flight! The motifs were butterflies and hot air balloons. I was so honored to be chosen to participate I felt like I was in my own hot air balloon, and with Edward’s memories by my side I knew I would not be alone.

As I entered Macy’s I took a moment to stroll through the enchanting gardens and vignettes, feeling inspired and lucky that I have a wonderful part in it all. This year’s show featured 10 different garden environments, including the new Hot Palm and Topiary gardens, and over 30,000 different varieties of exotic trees, flowering plants, with brilliant colors as far as the eye can see. The fragrance alone must represent what heaven would smell like, as the aroma of Mother Nature’s beauty was captured not only as a vision but the complete essences of mother earth unfolded as you wondered throughout the store.

As I prepared to set up, my assistant came over and said “Take a look at the program Mar, as you’re in good company.” Listed in the group of featured gardeners and designers was Martha Stewart. (Hmm; I noticed her, do you think she also noticed me?) I was in amazing company, happy to be in the program among all the other amazing talent and experts.

My spirits soared with excitement, looking forward to doing a memorable presentation in the world’s largest store. Combined with how great it was to work with the Macy’s Special Event staff I am excited for an opportunity to get invited back, and extend my opportunities to work at other events with this terrific team. This was fun work, but like everything I do I was going to be at the top of my game, ready to deliver a presentation that would hopefully inspire people to visit and experience a little bit of what Life On Mar’s is all about.

What did I talk about? I created a new presentation for this special Macy’s Flower Show event: a hands-on demonstration that was complimented with a slide show demonstrating how Mother Nature inspires design applications for the home. Rosebrook Gardens were the backdrop for this journey to Mar’s!

I asked two volunteers from the audience to help me as I showcased several simple signature casual luxury projects that they could reproduce at home, projects that help anyone ring Mother Nature indoors. I used Macy’s fabulous items to help accessorize the examples, making them even more beautiful and breathtaking.

The event was a huge success as it was standing-room only, and those who arrived a half hour early got the best seats. The magic of Macy’s was in the air, making it an experience of a lifetime for me.

Can you tell I enjoyed it? Great people, gorgeous flowers, a fun presentation, a kick-off to Spring, and the anniversary of a date that made me feel even more proud of what I was invited to do. Can you blame me for thinking I got my very own personal miracle on 34th Street?

www.marjennings.com

Mar Jennings. Esquire? By Mar Jennings

mjennings — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 23:48:37 +0000

As you know these days I’m sporting a new look, wearing my Oliver Peoples glasses. And regardless if I’m wearing jeans or dressing up I have two distinct looks that work. I’m a “two” man: “too” much sometimes, “two” more, or my favorite: “to” you darling. Truth be told, the number “two” gives me great comfort when it shows up unexpectedly in my life. That said, I’ve been getting some great comments about my specs but last week’s experience serving jury duty was both unexpected and entertaining, and of course became blog worthy.

Jury service is one of the most important civic duties we can perform. So I embraced my public service and arrived, professionally dressed (wearing a sport coat) and carrying a briefcase because I’d planned to do some work while there. My assistant surprised me with The New York Times and the National Enquirer placed inside, with a Post-it note reading “relax and take the day off.” So with my Starbucks coffee in hand I was ready to go.

Most people find jury duty to be more of an annoyance than anything else, but I embrace the task—although I still always hope to get discharged after one day. As I arrived I noticed a long line forming outside the court house. As I approached I was quickly addressed by a security officer, who directed me with a firm “Follow me.” Once inside, I gave my Drivers License, put my personal items in the bin and proceeded to walk through their security. As I gathered my belongings I was asked “Do you know where you’re going attorney Jennings?” I replied. “Oh, excuse me, I’m not an attorney—I’m here for jury duty.” “Oh. Well no problem you look familiar—oh, you’re the guy who’s on TV? Well, you look like an attorney today, and we never have them wait in line to come in. ”Yikes, I wonder how many people think I expected that VIP treatment? But what the heck, I was already inside and I was not about to go through security again. (Although I offered to wait my turn.)

As I proceeded to the elevator a young woman walk over to me and asked “Are you looking for your client?” “No,” I replied, “I’m here for jury duty.” Once I was on the right floor I was approached by another security officer who directed me to the court room floor—so I again had to explain I was there to serve jury duty! (I promise: I didn’t plan on being disguised as a lawyer!)

I took a moment and looked around and noticed jeans and sweat pants were the outfit of the day. Note to self: This would be a great place for a make-over show as there were so many fashion disasters. These people may have had their civic duty in mind, but their looks were still criminal. I sign-in and waited for my name to be called. I waited, waited and waited, and then they broke for lunch. I returned and waited. Finally an announcement: “If I call your name you’re free to go—Miller, Madison, Brooks, Jennings…” I snapped-up and replied “Mar Jennings?” She confirmed, and I grabbed my briefcase and with the tail winds from last weekend’s storm behind me I took flight, happy and content that I was off the hook and free as a bird.

I was excited to be part of the system and showed my respect by dressing appropriately for the call of duty. Who knew that the right outfit could move you to the front of the line? I don’t think it’s what got me dismissed, but I’m counting it anyway. Two good reasons for sporting the right look—now how’s that for “2” much?

Learn more about Mar Jennings at www.marjennings.com

Best Dressed

jreid — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 23:18:44 +0000

My picks for Best Dressed at last night’s Academy Awards:

1. Sarah Jessica Parker, who made a daring yet timeless choice, and whose dress will be remembered for years to come (much like the black minidress she wore to her first Academy Awards, which was similarly controversial). Too much bronzer and kind of odd hair, but that dress made up for it.

2. Miley Cyrus, whose dress (and makeup) was beyond stunning. Yeah, she slouched, and I often question her clothing (and life) choices…but she’s 17 and she looked classy and lovely. Let’s give her a break.

3. Vera Farmiga (left), who I desperately want to look like, made possibly the night’s boldest choice. Not everyone will “get” it…but it’s the Oscars, and that is an Oscars dress if I’ve ever seen one.

4. Zoe Kravitz, whose understated gown was a great color, a beautiful shape, and perfectly suited for a young, trendy starlet not tasked with nominating or presenting.

5. Rachel McAdams, because she can do no wrong.

Who do you think did it best?

-Jordan Reid

Sight seeing in the dark by Mar Jennings

mjennings — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 21:59:17 +0000

Recently I was hired to be a guest speaker in Farmington, Connecticut, to talk about my signature style of creating casual luxury. I was joined by Lisa, my candle line business partner, and we were off to meet the ladies and enjoy a meal with them; my presentation was for after dinner. We left Westport around 5:00pm and as the sun set I noticed how difficult it was getting for me to read the street signs. Recently I also noticed I was having some difficulties reading the text on my iPhone. “Oh no!” I yell to Lisa, “It’s happening!” “What?” she replied. “My eyes are going, and it feels as if it happened overnight!” Turning 40 this year I had been told, “Just wait: once you’ve hit forty you’ll be needing readers,” but driving glasses—what gives?

We arrived at the restaurant to a packed, sold out event. How exciting, right? We sat down, had a light bite, and then I was introduced. Although I have given many lectures on several topics, this was my first lecture on this “casual luxury” subject so I did my due diligence and had some notes typed up. I began as I normally do, telling some Mar stories, and I mentioned that I wrote some notes to keep me on track and pulled them out to show the audience. When I next glanced at them to prompt me on my next statement I noticed that I could not see a single word clearly. And that’s when I broke and confessed “I’m apparently blind as I can’t even read my own typed out notes.” I could try to blame the fact that it was rather dark, or that I had enjoyed one MARtini after dinner, but truth be told I was “blind.” My assistant, Robert, will tell you he has been hinting at this for a while now, but I just didn’t want to hear it—I know he’s ready to say “I told you so.” Luckily I am someone who always writes his own speeches, so I decided I could just wing it.

Today I came to grips with my new eyesight loss and began to embrace the potential reality that I will be told that glasses will not be just for driving but reading as well.

My neighbor Barbara greeted this news as if I was joining some team. “Welcome, Mar! And guess what? Your ability to focus on near objects gets even harder with age.” I’ve done a little reading since yesterday, and so I know that this condition is not a disease but a natural part of aging called “Presbyopia,” and the exact cause is still unknown. Great: we can put a man on the moon but we can’t figure out what happens to our eyes. Similar to grey hair (of which I have none—yet!) and wrinkles (okay, maybe one or two, but they’re what I call laugh lines), presbyopia is a symptom caused by the natural course of aging, and most people start to notice its effects between 40 and 50 years old, although it can occur at an earlier age like so many other things. I guess I have arrived early to my own party of growing old. What a lousy party to crash!

Luckily enough, wearing glasses no longer has the stigma it once did, and I am not alone as some of the most influential people I know have “four eyes,” as well as many famous people including Johnny Deep, Elton John, and the forever fabulous Sophia Loren—and they really “own” their look, so here I come.

We are all in good company with three-quarters of the population people in specs. With a huge variety of eyeglass styles, shapes, and colors available I decided the best way to come to terms with it is to embrace the opportunity to be well-accessorized—so I took a short walk to Spec’s of Westport for the best advice and collection. So getting the right style will be like everything else I do: an opportunity to make a casual luxury statement. The one concern I do have? Here’s hoping that my habit of losing sunglasses doesn’t extend to my prescription ones as well!

Getting A Safe Summer Glow…

lfoster — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 14:29:51 +0000

Tanning beds could be headed for tigher regulations. The F-D-A plans to hold a public hearing in late march to review the growing evidence linking UV radiation and skin cancer.

The agency is considering stricter regulations, including limits on u-v exposure from sun lamps and stronger warning labels.

While I am pretty much a sun-block person, I can appreciate the summer glow look with spray tans.

I do worry about looking oily or “fake.

Luckily, Anne from Parents TV found some alternative tanning methods –including great spray tans — to help us get in the warmer weather spirit. -L