No time to mine the internet? Check out these fab, under the radar fashion blogs.

In My Bag provides incredibly extensive information on our favorite accessory.
inmybag.blogspot.com

Fat Chic is plus-size fashion and cultural criticism. Expect sass, confidence, and self-respect for style at any size.
fatchic.net

Dream Sequins covers emerging fashion designers and independent boutiques. Thorough interviews with shop owners make this site a must read.
dreamsequins.blogspot.com

Alixrose is written by a Seattle-based “girl next door” with a healthy, life-consuming obsession with Fashion. Never pretentious.
alixrose.com

Knickers is a fashion weblog dedicated to all things lingerie featuring new collections, coupons and designers.
knickersblog.com

Shaping eyebrows on your own can be a daunting task.  This excellent vid from 5Min Life Viapedia helps demystify the process.

Still not convinced?  Go visit these CRAVE city pros:
Austin: Angie at Blush Skincare
Chicago: Ignacia at Rogue Salon
San Fran: Kimberly at Evebrows to Die For
Seattle: Kim at Browlick Wax Studio
Vancouver: Natalie at Little Spa

Direct anyone who tries to tell you Seattle is not a fashion-forward city to Totokaelo and they will come back humbled. Check out this inspirational interview with visionary shop owner Jill Wenger.

Describe the ‘two purposes’ of Totokaelo.
“Shop and Talk” and “Clothing and People Clothing.” Our goal is to source the strongest artists and thinkers in the fashion world today. We edit the collections to represent our aesthetic, consistently choosing pieces that are timeless, versatile, and well crafted.

Totokaelo believes in building a tightly curated wardrobe by (1) learning about your frame and what silhouettes are the most flattering, and (2) being realistic about your lifestyle and what in your wardrobe you gravitate toward.

I love the Pacific Northwest practicality of the styles and aesthetic Totokaelo represents. We strive to make dressing for “circumstance” (ie. comfort, weather, reality, life, rain and more rain), sexy and cool. Fabrics are sturdy with minimal prints. We like outfits that look easy—like they were just thrown together (ah, if only it were that simple). As a buyer, I have little tolerance for superfluous details or frills. I like clothes that feel good on and have pockets. As trends come and go, quality materials and superior craftsmanship stand the test of time. Practical, right?

The people: We put our own flare on things, both in our styling and in our client service. I LOVE my team. Each person has a unique style and stand-out personality. I feel that the girls that work for me and the photographers and talent involved are real-deal great people worth knowing. In a world of endless amounts of stuff, relationships matter.

My crew is the only resource I have that can’t be copied by another business. This is something we think about at Totokaelo: if a shop opened up next door with an identical build-out and the same merchandise, why would people shop with us? Relationships. We love our clients. We go above and beyond to be authentic and honest with people. Our goal is to deliver a consistent, thoughtful, and personalized shopping experience unmatched by other retailers.

Talk about the ’story’ of your shop.
Totokaelo came about due to the success of the website (of the same name), which launched last May. The space is amazing, with 18-foot ceilings and an all-glass front. The natural light streams in and the space just feels good.

It’s all hand-done. Everything is custom and relevant. The black fixture that runs down the middle of the store is the same dimension as the black bar that runs along the bottom of the website.

Nothing is out of a box. Each piece is relevant and special, nothing superfluous.

What was the inspiration behind starting your business?
I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur. In third grade I asked for an adding machine for Christmas. Along with computations, filing make-believe appointments into date books was another favorite.

I studied business management in college and left college with hopes to just learn something well enough so that I could do it myself. Looking back, I didn’t quite know retail well enough to start where I did, but I learned as I went and it worked out.

Who are your role models and/or mentors?
I’m super close to my Dad. We touch base daily, and I couldn’t have gotten this far without him. And I think Jeremy Piven’s Entourage character, Ari, is amazing. He gets so much done so quickly because he cuts out the bullshit. I like that.

People would be surprised to know…
When I started Impulse, I was 26 years old and didn’t have startup capital for inventory, so I sold handmade items on consignment from Portland and Seattle designers. This was 2003. Six years later and I have two stores and a website and represent some of the worlds most influential collections.

Have you started taking out your shorts, swim suits and tank tops? Just as your wardrobe requires a Summertime makeover so does your skin care routine. Here are nine ways to rejuvenate your face and body and revamp your regimen.

1. Review your routine and switch as needed
Is your skin care routine appropriate for springtime? As temperatures rise, everyone’s complexion tends to get oilier, so even if you have dry or combination skin, you might need a lighter moisturizer.

If your skin is really oily, you might want to switch to a serum. These products are very lightweight and deliver a powerful dose of nourishing ingredients, dermatologist Leslie Baumann, M.D., writes on her Yahoo! Health blog.

Also, oily types should consider applying a mattifying gel. Dr. Baumann suggests using OC Eight Professional Mattifying Gel, which controls oil for up to eight hours. Apply the gel before your makeup. For dry or combination complexions, mattifying gels are likely too drying. Instead, shrink any excess shine by keeping a stash of blotting papers in your purse or applying primer before your makeup.

Also, don’t forget to evaluate your beauty products. If you used hydrating makeup—such as moisturizing foundation, concealer or blush—during the colder weather, set it aside. Instead, sweep on a light dusting of powder, bronzer or blush and apply a light lip gloss. For the spring and summer, it’s best to keep it simple.

2. Try a treatment
After a harsh winter, your skin is begging for some relief and rejuvenation. Consider a deeply hydrating mask or a deep cleansing treatment. If you prefer a DIY treatment, try this recipe to boost and brighten your complexion from body and soul:

Ingredients:
1/2 cup unripe papaya, diced
1 teaspoon plain yogurt
1 teaspoon honey

Blend all ingredients in a food processor. Apply the mask to your face for eight to 10 minutes. Then, rinse with cool water. Apply a gentle moisturizer while skin is still damp.

3. Be diligent about sun protection
As the weather gets warmer, make sure you’re applying sunscreen to all exposed areas 20 to 30 minutes before heading outdoors, and reapplying every two hours. If you don’t own a double-duty product already, consider using a facial moisturizer with SPF. This way you aren’t applying several layers of lotion on your face.

4. Invest in a cute hat
In addition to applying sunscreen, it’s wise to invest in a wide-brimmed hat (at least a 3-inch brim) to shield your face, hair and scalp.

Just like the sun can dry out your face, it can also dehydrate your hair, leaving your tresses dull and brittle. Even worse, exposing your scalp to the sun can result in a painful sunburn. Hats also provide defense against overheating.

5. Address body acne
With increased heat and sweat, your pores can get clogged and acne can sprout in the most unlikely places, including your back. To treat the problem, try using a medicated cleanser, cream or gel that contains benzoyl peroxide. Using a scrub on a regular basis (about two to three times a week) can help to prevent body acne. However, keep in mind that you can’t scrub away your acne. Exfoliating too often and too vigorously can aggravate the skin, especially on more sensitive areas like the chest. If you’re experiencing severe body acne, it’s best to see a dermatologist.

6. Start screening your skin
Make sure you’re regularly and thoroughly checking your skin for any moles that might have changed in color, size or shape.

7. Use self-tanner
Before bathing suit season officially begins, many people start working on their “base tans” in hopes of warding off any real damage once they start spending more time outside. However, there’s no such thing as a safe tan—even your base tan causes damage to the skin.

8. Get a mani and pedi stat!
After a frosty, windy winter, your hands and heels are probably cracked, chapped and dry—not the best look for your open-toe shoes. Revive them for springtime with an at-home manicure and pedicure.

9. Exfoliate the entire body
Now that you’ll be exposing more than your neck and hands, make sure to exfoliate your entire body. Get rid of rough, scaly skin by using a light lotion with glycolic acid, lactic acid or urea.

excerpts via Skincare-news.com

Here at CRAVE, one of our favorite pastimes, on any given day, is to gather a group of our girlfriends and visit a tea house in Vancouver. Tea is an experience beyond explanation as it allows us to rejuvenate and relax after a long day of hard work. Rolling back in time of many decades, we have dedicated this time to chit-chat, catch up, but most importantly, enjoy our delicious cup of tea. So, the next time you feel like you deserve a well-earned break, immerse yourself into a peaceful and aromatic atmosphere—also known as a tea house.

The Secret Garden Tea Company: Located in the heart of Kerrisdale, this tea house is recognized for is lavish High Tea. Treat your taste buds to sweets and check out their best-selling Buckingham Palace tea.

Blue Teapot: For those of you interested in decaffeinated teas such as herbal or fruit teas, visit one of North Vancouver’s best tea houses. This location is home sweet home.

Shaktea: Situated in one of Vancouver’s upcoming and trendiest shopping district’s, Main Street. Listen to melodies from the Eastern World as you enter a place that truly captures the essence of a Zen lounge.

Domo Tea: By using a Japanese nutrient-rich powder, Domo teas are like sipping on green teas with a fusion twist. Domo created their very own CRAVEtini at our CRAVE Vancouver: The Urban Girl’s Manifesto launch party in November!

Kathy Casey our favorite celebrity chef and mixologist just published her new book Sips & Apps. The book was created for all skill levels—it has more than 100 recipes (69 cocktails and 35 appetizers), as well as more than 60 color photographs to guide and inspire you.

For your next dinner party, wow your guests with a Tuscan Rosemary Lemon Drop (recipe below) or a Cucumber Elderflower Fizz. Throw a vintage cocktail party and revisit the classics with a Peach 75 or a Dubious Manhattan. Serve an icy pitcher of Berrylicious Sangria at your next poolside barbecue. Tantalizing finger foods such as Croque Monsieur Puffs and Fennel-Roasted Walnuts, expertly paired with just the right cocktail, will make yours the happiest happy hour.

The book also includes a bar-basics section, insider tips and techniques, recipes for infused syrups, original garnishes, and fresh fruit purees, as well as some nifty extras (like a pair of ribbon markers labeled “sips” and “apps”) to create a great guide for home cocktail “chefs” and bar professionals alike.

Visit kathycasey.com to buy.

Tuscan Rosemary Lemon Drop - Makes 1 drink
Rosemary Sugar (recipe follows)
1 sprig fresh rosemary
1 1/2 ounces vodka
1/2 ounce limoncello
1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
1/2 ounce Simple Syrup (recipe follows)
For garnishing: Fresh rosemary sprig
Rim a large martini glass with rosemary sugar, and set aside. Bend 1 rosemary sprig and drop into a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice. Measure in the vodka, limoncello, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Cap and shake vigorously. Strain into the sugar-rimmed glass. Float a rosemary sprig in the drink for garnish.

Rosemary Sugar - Makes 1 cup
2 Tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, coarsely chopped
1 cup superfine or baker’s sugar
Mix the rosemary and sugar together, and spread the mixture on a rimmed baking sheet. Set in a warm dry place for about 4 days, until the rosemary is completely dried. Process in a food processor or spice grinder until finely ground. Store in a tightly sealed container for up to one month at room temperature.

Simple Syrup - Makes 3 cups
This is a bar staple and the most commonly used sweetener. Though you can purchase simple syrup, it is ordinarily sweeter than I prefer, so I highly recommend making your own. Proportions vary but it is easy.

2 cups water
2 cups sugar
Mix the water and sugar together in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Let boil 1 minute then immediately remove from the heat. Let cool to room temperature before using. Store in a clean glass bottle or container, at room temperature, for up to 2 weeks or, refrigerated, for up to 3 months.

Tip: If you don’t have limoncello, then increase the lemon juice and simple syrup to 3/4 ounce each.

Erica Lam from The Style Spy put together this great list:

We love to shop here at The Style Spy, so here are a few of our favourite shopping districts when visiting the beautiful city of Vancouver.

South Granville
A high-end shopping district, South Granville has the perfect mix of fashion, home and lifestyle. One of our favourite shopping spots is locally-owned Misch, a darling boutique with fashion forward brands like Alexander Wang, Vena Cava and Loeffler Randall. If you’re headed to a big party, Blo Blow Dry Bar will get your coiffed and pretty in 30 minutes flat. And don’t forget a quick stop at Meinhardt’s for a bouquet of fresh flowers.

Gastown
One of the hippest districts in the city, you’ll find down the signature cobblestone walkways of Gastown independent fashion retailers like The Block, (212), One of a Few, Dream and Obakki. Mixed in are host of furniture stores, clubs and restaurants – we especially heart Chill Winston, especially sunny days on their massive patio.

Robson Street
The most famous shopping district in the city, Robson street is packed with well-known names like Club Monaco, Aritzia, Banana Republic, French Connection, Lululemon, Roots, Bebe, American Apparel, Guess and Aldo Shoes. Skip one street over to Alberni – aka Luxury Alley for Tiffany & Co., Betsey Johnson and Hermes. For a quick snack, we suggest you go down Burrard street (right off Robson) for the famed Japadog stand, a traditional hotdog with a Japanese twist.

West 4th
The vibe on West 4th is chill. It’s the only spot to get geared up for winter skiing and snowboarding at stores like Pacific Boarder and The Boardroom. For summer, it’s bikini ready at Blue Crush. And with Vancouver’s unpredictable rainy weather, rainboots at Gumdrops are a must. You’ll also find a wonderful mix of home stores and children’s fashion mixed in with salons and spas.

South Main (SoMa) Street
An emerging local fashion district, Main Street is home to independently-owned stores like Eugene Choo, Twigg & Hottie and Smoking Lily. Our fave on the stretch is Front & Co., famed for their amazing window displays, Front has a great mix of new, sample and consigned one-of-a-kind clothing for both men and women, along with a charming selection of gifts – accessories, homeware and quirky objects. A big famished – we’d skip on over to Crave restaurant for their buttermilk fried chicken cobb salad.

Finding the time to plan and take a trip with your girlfriends can be difficult, and sometimes we need a little extra help. That reason was the inspiration behind Lisa Kasanicky’s (lisa.kasanicky.com) latest book, “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Girlfriend Getaways”. With crash courses in travel planning, packing advice, and great deals and specials, Lisa has given women the help they need to get away from it all.

What kinds of facts and advice can we expect from your new book, The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Girlfriend Getaways?
The underlying message of the book is to “Just Go!” This country is peppered with tons of wonderful places for a memorable and fun getaway but the fact is that we often don’t take the time we need. A girlfriends getaway is a way to unwind, reconnect and be yourself. That said, the book has about 65 specific destinations throughout the U.S. and Canada including where to stay, where to eat and what to do. Each chapter has a theme — shopping, adventure trips, volunteer vacations, cultural excursions and of course, one seriously fat chapter on spas — so that you can skip right to the type of destination you want and get to the business of planning your getaway. Because of my own beauty product addiction, you’ll also find a guide to pre-trip beauty and my list of must-haves for keeping fresh and pretty on the go. And lots of advice on packing! One suitcase filled just with shoes is a no-no these days! The book is also sprinkled with “chick wit” advice from other female travelers.

What would be your ideal spa getaway with your girlfriends?
Like most women, I would be happy with a day trip to a local spa but if I were to throw caution to the wind, I would teleport me and my girls to the island of Kauai in Hawaii. Breathtaking. I like beach trips anywhere actually because you can usually find a place to rent with a full kitchen so you can save on meals and they’re a good choice for a diverse group. Of course, Las Vegas, New York City and Los Angeles are all places you could go back dozens of times and experience something new each visit.

Any advice for those busy women who can’t find the time to plan a vacation with the girls?
First, you can find the time. You’ve earned it. Second, if you delegate the planning tasks than the burden of won’t fall on one person’s shoulders. Get the girls together for cocktails or start an online group (I like TripWiser.com and ImIn.com) and nail down what everybody wants to do, budgets and expectations. Then, divide up the planning tasks in a way that best suits each traveler’s time and skills. Make it fun and give each girl a title such as the Entertainment Diva, Secretary of Expense and so on. Plan your trip far enough in advance so that everyone has adequate time to clear their schedules and plan the details in a less hurried pace.

What are your plans/dreams/aspirations for the future?
My aspirations for the future are simple: Breathe more and travel more. I plan through as many means possible to continue to spread the message that the spa experience is not just a luxury set aside for a lucky few and is instead, the soul’s requirement for a life in check.

Save money, protect the environment, and express your individuality by purchasing trendy vintage items. Check out this list of spring style information via about.com and where to find vintage versions in Crave cities.

TREND: Lightweight and sheer fabrics. Billowy chiffons, silks, and satins fashioned in to exquisite draping or dramatic ruffles. Lots of undergarment-esque clothing.
SHOP: Pretty Parlor and Private Screening in Seattle

TREND: New Metallic. Heavy metallic and glossy trends seen in ‘08 are being traded for fabrics with a light sheen and shimmer. New metallics are subtler, softer, and less aggressive.
SHOP: Woo Vintage in Vancouver B.C

TREND: Color Blocking. Geometric shapes and cutouts liven up all the subdue grays and neutrals with a pop of bold color.
SHOP: Apocalypse Vintage

TREND: Interesting and Unexpected Ruffles.  Ruffles are the detail of the season!
SHOP: Decades of Fashion in San Fransisco

TREND: Romper. The one piece combo of shorts and a top like you used to wear when you were little is now all grownup and sexified.
SHOP: Knee Deep Vintage in Chicago.

As Vancouver’s premiere lash lounge, Noir Lash Lounge is a perfect example where classy meets chic. Located in the heart of Yaletown, Joyce Cajucom, founder and owner, reveals her very own tips and tricks about starting her own business.

How did you come up with the concept of Noir?
Noir Lash Lounge was born out of my own passion and vanity. I LOVE LOVE LOVED my lashes après the extensions and I LOVE LOVE LOVED how it changes the focus of the face. There was nowhere really to go that JUST did lashes - it always seemed to be added onto a list of many other services, almost like an after-thought, when really lashes needed to be front and centre!

What advice would you give women who would like to open their own businesses?
Just do it. Don’t be afraid to take baby steps. Something that starts small can really grow into something greater. And ask other women for help and advice - there are many great and inspirational women out there!

The hottest talk in town is about Twitter/Facebook etc. Have you found Social Media useful for your Business?
Absolutely! I am a member of the Facebook Generation - even before the launch of Noir I was on Facebook 24/7 and now I’m totally addicted to Twitter. I just incorporated Noir into what was already part of my daily routine and it worked out well!

What do you love most about being an Entrepreneur?
The control of seeing your vision come to life. I am a perfectionist and mildly obsessive-compulsive and finally I found something where these traits are OK!

What’s your favorite business book read and why?
Unfortunately being of the internet generation, I didn’t actually read books on business, but did all my research online - business and marketing magazines, reading up on social media and honestly, winging most of it.

Many women in Business find it difficult to balance home and work life. How do you manage to do this?
I have really good time management skills and I learned to delegate early on, although to be honest, home life more often than not falls to the bottom of the to-do list.