It's the time of year when ornamentation is the order of the day – for trees, your tabletop and even the occasional wreath lashed to the grille of an SUV. Everyone wants to add a dash of glitter to their lives, and holiday fashion is no exception.
If you're watching your wallet, the lust for luster can present some challenges, but there's no need to spend a lot to create some stylish impact. Cosmetics can change your look from everyday to exceptional without a major investment.
Cleveland-based Zoya Nail Polish and Qtica Products, founded in 1986 by Zoya and Michael Reyzis, is offering top trends for wearing and giving this year. "The biggest trend in nails right now are the mattes," says Erin Giddings, Media Relations/Design for Zoya. The company's Matte Velvet line for winter 2009 is a range of nail lacquers that dry without the traditional glossy finish, instead featuring a soft, velvety shimmer. "They have a bit shorter wear time than normal colors," says Giddings. "But some people put a clear French tip on it, for a striking look and longer wear."
For a bit of sparkle, Giddings recommends Zoya's new Ultra Glitters. "Traditionally, glitter is sparse and can look kind of cheap," says Giddings. "But this provides full coverage in two to three coats... From a distance they almost look like a foil, and are incredibly pretty on the nail."
Zoya's Color Cube sets, which include a full-size Hot Lips lip gloss and coordinating shade of nail color, make ideal stocking stuffers or small gifts. Giddings recommends picking these up quickly to get the best variety – they sell out in a hurry. "Another great gift idea is our Color Lock system, which extends the life of the manicure. The products are formulated to work together to prepare the nail, hold the polish and protect the polish." If anyone on your gift list is vegan, don't fret: All Zoya nail polishes and treatments are "Big 3" free – made without the chemicals known to be most toxic – considered vegan friendly and are not tested on animals.
In this season of giving, the company is giving back as well – a sponsor of VH1's Save the Music Foundation, Zoya also sponsors the Cleveland Piano Competition. (Zoya Reyzis, a classical pianist, serves on the board of the competition.)
In a time when practicality often takes precedence, even when it comes to giving, don't overlook the value of a little frivolity, particularly when dressing up for holiday fun. "It's very festive," says Giddings. "Think of the traditional little black dress, and the way that sequins are such a trend this season. You've got to have a little shine and a little sparkle to feel 'now.'"
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On December 2nd, 2009 @ 07:18:pm,
My husband gave me a fine selection of artificial bait one year. I don't fish. Neither does he.
On December 3rd, 2009 @ 09:02:am,
I've always had a dog. Boyfriend and I moved into an apt a few yrs ago where only cats are permitted. I just wanted a warm fuzzy lil friend to cuddle and love me. Boyfriend surprised me with Sammie Cat our first Christmas in the apt. He is the gift that keeps giving. More lovey and cuddley everyday! ;)
On December 3rd, 2009 @ 06:34:pm,
One of my more artistic friends took a photograph I had taken, which I had photoshopped a unicorn into, and painted it on canvas. So now I have three versions of the same shot, which is pretty cool.
On December 4th, 2009 @ 10:48:am,
Last year my entire family (we're talking 35+) got together for a white elephant exchange. When it came time for me to pick a present I chose my own crappy gift - a Giant Little Mermaid coloring book. Needless to say, no one wanted to swap with me. It has since been re-gifted to the little girl I sometimes babysit. God bless her.
On December 7th, 2009 @ 08:06:am,
i received a slice of a tree that dates to 1793. the artist finds old trees standing dead ones i might add. he counts the rings and finds interesting historic references through the years identified in the rings including my date of birth ring. it is sanded and shellacked to bring out the pattern of the rings.very unique gift.