I’m invited to the drybar’s VIP party in Scottsdale Quarter tomorrow eve whoo hoo:) There been rumors that the newly picked Bravo’s Real Housewives of Scottsdale first places to make an appearance is the VIP private opening party for drybar at Scottsdale Quarter also Thursday evening (via arizonafoothillsmagazine.com). In addition to giving a portion of the sales that day to the Fresh Start Women’s Foundation, drybar is hosting a Silent Auction at the event, the proceeds of which will also directly benefit the charity. So I will keep you posted with my coverage of the event. Yours truly Marta Walsh, here from the Scottsdale AZ headquarters:)

Love this Summer by Bravo video featuring all of your favorite Bravo reality stars from the Real Housewives of New York City, New Jersey, and Atlanta. Robert and Cortney Novogratz from 9 By Design, Top Chef, Andy Cohen from Watch What Happens Live, Flipping Out, The Millionaire Matchmaker, The Rachel Zoe Project, Kathy Griffin My Life on the D List, and more.

Introducing Sonja Morgan aka Sonja Tremontthe the very new Real Housewives of New York City. Sonja’s entry to Bravo’s hit reality show reminded me of Heather Locklear’s entrance in the 1980s soap opera Dynasty. A grand moment I still remember today. Sonja steals the show with her beauty, true charming personality, and glamour. Sonja is not just a real housewife she is also the real deal. We love:)

Shear Genius 3: Episode 10. “Who Will Prove To Be Shear Genius?” Nexxus Salon Hair Care is back as the official hair care sponsor for the third season of BRAVO’s hit reality series, Shear Genius, a new style of competition. Nexxus Creative Director Kevin Mancuso offers tips on styling so that anyone can achieve a salon style at home.

This week’s “how to get the look” from Kevin:

Take inspiration from last night’s Henry Duarte Fashion Show and keep hair simple and polished when “rocking” an edgy headband.

1. Apply a sleek styler, such as Nexxus Sleek Memory, to damp hair, and then blow-dry using a large round brush.

2. Once dry, pull hair back into a low ponytail and secure with an elastic.

3. Twist loose ends into a bun and secure with a bobbi pin.

4. To finish the look, add a bold and unique accessory.

Recap of Show

It all comes down to this! The final three stylists, Brig, Janine and Matthew, met up with Orlando and Camila to receive their final challenge: “Create six looks for a Henry Duarte Fashion Show.” Each stylist consulted with Henry, who said he wanted futuristic hairstyles to complement his edgy fashions.

At the Shear Genius Nexxus Salon, the stylists picked their assistants from a grouping of their former competitors. Since Brig won the prior elimination challenge, she was able to choose her own two assistants and determine the order of who would choose after her.

Once the assistants were chosen, Janine immediately began wrapping her models’ hair around large hairpins to set in major frizz. Brig decided on her most avant-garde look yet – what she called “laminated hair.” The look consisted of multi-colored hairpieces stuck in between plastic and layered on top of the models’ simple buns. Matthew also got to work quickly on his vision, “bondage hair,” with zippers, tightly bound mohawks and even extreme foreheads courtesy of a few skullcaps.

After the runway show, the stylists met with their final four judges, Jonathan, Kim, Camila and Allure Editor-in-Chief Linda Wells. While all of the judges agreed that Brig’s work was unique and edgy, Jonathan criticized the use of props and lack of hairstyling. As for Matthew’s hairstyles, Linda called the zippers on his hair fun, but found his skullcap looks to be ugly and jarring. Kim called it hot, but was also bothered by the unsettling effect of the skullcap. Janine’s looks also underwhelmed the judges. Jonathan praised her for great technical work but complained that it wasn’t quite enough for this stage of the competition. Linda thought Janine’s work was beautiful, but Camila commented that she’d seen the look on the runway before.

In what some may call a shocking upset, it was Brig who ultimately rose to become Shear Genius. Her visionary approach not only won her the title, but $100,000 furnished by Nexxus Salon Hair Care, an apprenticeship with Nexxus and the opportunity to style hair for an Allure magazine photo shoot. Congratulations, Brig!

For more from Kevin Mancuso and to learn about “Shear Genius Season 3,” become a fan of Nexxus on Facebook

Nexxus Salon Hair Care is back as the official hair care sponsor for the third season of BRAVO’s hit reality series, Shear Genius, a new style of competition. Nexxus Creative Director Kevin Mancuso offers tips on styling so that anyone can achieve a salon style at home.

Voluminous Waves:

1. Apply a volumizing gel styler, such as Nexxus Lavish Body, to damp hair, and then blow-dry using a large round brush.

2. While hair is still warm, wrap two inch sections around large Velcro rollers and allow hair to cool.

3. Remove rollers and back comb each section at the root to create lift and body.

4. Use fingers to shape sections into a unique style and pin curls randomly in the back. Then spray hair with a strong-hold hairspray, like Nexxus Maxximum, to hold the look in place.

Voluminous Updo:

1. Apply a texture lotion, such as Nexxus VersaStyler, to damp hair, and then blow-dry using a diffuser attachment.

2. Once dry, use a flat brush to comb hair into a high, tight ponytail on top of head. Secure with an elastic.

3. Gently twist loose ends into a bun and secure with a bobbi pins. You want the texture to come through here, so don’t twist hair too tightly.

4. Apply a dime size amount of a smoothing product, such as Nexxus Sleek Finish, onto your fingers and run over the bottom half of hair, avoiding the bun portion.

Shear Genius 3 Episode 9 Show Recap:

The stylists were feeling the pressure this week as they were whisked away to a VIP client’s mansion in the hills for their shortcut challenge. Their VIP client? Camila Alves, of course – and she was also the sole judge for the challenge. Orlando Pita was on hand to consult with Camila and the stylists, and he warned them all that Camila is very particular about her hair. Each stylist was given 45 minutes to create a glamorous hairstyle appropriate for the red carpet. They each seemed to struggle with her hair texture. Brig had to edit her vision to suit Camila’s taste and neither was at all happy with the finished product. Jon’s nerves got the better of him once again. In fact, he got so wound up that he singed Camila with a curling iron. Camila also took each styling session as an opportunity to dish on the drama between the stylists, taking particular interest in Brig’s personality clashes with her competitors. Matthew found the gossip session to be distracting. Janine was happy to complain about Brig but her down hairstyle didn’t impress Orlando or Camila. In the end, Matthew’s near perfect updo won the challenge and an advantage at elimination.

Afterwards at the salon, they stylists were introduced to an iconic guest judge, Oribe. Then Camila revealed the elimination challenge: “Creating a Portfolio of Your Signature Style.” Their task was to create three looks for a portfolio that make up each stylist’s ‘signature style.’ The stylists had to work with two models and then, for the twist, style themselves. How well they made a statement about their style and tied the three looks together would ultimately determine which three stylists would make it to the season finale.

Janine was inspired by modern Harajuku looks from Japan. While one model’s edgy style fit the bill, the second model’s oddly-shaped afro seemed out of place. Janine’s own photo failed to bring any of it together. Jon appeared to know exactly who he was – the ‘cut and color guy’ – and while he delivered a finished look on a model with thinning hair and a clearly defined self-portrait, his second model underwhelmed the judges. Matthew went for soft and sexy on both of his models and while their photos were striking the judges didn’t like Matthew’s self-portrait, calling it a real estate agent headshot. Brig went for it in this challenge, finally deciding to take a chance on her own brand of avant garde hair and hoping the judges would see her vision. It was big and textured and striking on set, and while the judges were taken aback at first, they all came around to her side of thinking when they saw the finished photos.

At judging, Matthew and Brig were congratulated as the top two. Brig’s fearlessness and distinct branding won her the challenge and both won their spot in the finale. Janine and Jon landed in the bottom two – but it was Jon’s run-of-the-mill styles that sent him home. So, in the end, it will be the Wonder Twins versus Brig – as it’s been all season long. Expect a dramatic finale next week!

For more from Kevin Mancuso and to learn about “Shear Genius Season 3,” become a fan of Nexxus on Facebook.

Iconic hairstylist Oribe will appear as a guest judge on Shear Genius on BRAVO tonight, March 31st, 2010, 10PM.

How to get the perfect profile picture and that picture perfect hair by Celebrity Stylist Kevin Mancuso.

Kevin Mancuso

In the age of social media, Facebook and Twitter, it is more important than ever for women to have a professional headshot of themselves to share with the online world. Celebrity hairstylist Kevin Mancuso – who has worked on countless photo shoots with the likes of Natalie Portman, Naomi Watts, America Ferrara and Cindy Crawford to name a few – can show you exactly how to capture that picture perfect hair.

“In my experience, I’ve noticed that women either over do it or don’t do enough to prepare for a photo shoot. Try to go for a more natural look when preparing for your headshot to ensure the photograph captures the best and most beautiful version of you.” – Kevin Mancuso, Nexxus Creative Director

On March 10th, 2010, Kevin appeared as a guest on Bravo’s hit reality hair competition Shear Genius Season 3, where he judged the work of top stylists. From years of experience on photo shoots, Kevin provided his insights on exactly what works and what doesn’t.

Prepping Hair for the Shoot:

· Try to get a trim or haircut a week or so before the shoot, so hair looks healthy.

· If you color your hair, make sure your roots are done. You should also use a color protecting shampoo and conditioner, like Nexxus Dualiste, before the shoot to maintain the color and keep hair looking vibrant.

Styling the Day of the Shoot:

· Try pulling hair in front of shoulders for close shots to help elongate your face and instantly make you look thinner.

· Avoid tightly pulled back hair since it can make you look harsh and unapproachable.

· A flattering amount of body will always make hair look healthy and natural. Try using a volumizing mousse, like Nexxus Thermal Volume, before blow-drying to protect hair from heat damage and help build bounce.

What to Wear:

· Pick clothes that are flattering to not only your body type, but also your hairstyle. Big collars are a major “don’t” with down hairstyles, and low-cut shirts should be avoided when working an updo.

Watch FASHION & STYLE backstage at the Claudaie Fall 2010 Fashion Show.

Hosts Robert Reynolds and Natascha Bessez talk with designer Claudia of Claudiae backstage at her first fashion show in NYC. Also in the video Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York City Alex McCord. This segment of FASHION & STYLE is brought to you by Blink PR and Reynolds & Associates and was sponsored by CitySlips. Visit CitySlips at cityslips.com

L to R: Fashion Designer Claudia, Robert Reynolds, and Natascha Bessez

Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York City Alex McCord

Lena Sabino

Sashalee Pallagi

Alyssa

Nexxus Salon Hair Care is returning as the official hair care sponsor of Shear Genius, Bravo’s hit reality hair competition.

The cast of Shear Genius Season 3. Photo credit: BRAVO

Bravo’s creative hair-styling competition series “Shear Genius” premieres Wednesday, February 3 at 11 p.m. ET/PT with a whole new look. Nexxus Salon Hair Care, official hair care sponsor of the show, has partnered with Bravo for a third season of high-stakes action. For the first time, “Shear Genius” has gone international. After combing the world for top stylists, Bravo has assembled 12 remarkably-talented individuals who will raise the level of competition to hair-raising heights. Each week, the show will offer expert tips and how-tos, as well as fashionable hairdos created exclusively with Nexxus products.

“We are thrilled to be back for a third season,” said Rob Keen, Nexxus Brand Director. “Partnering with a program that celebrates the professional community and provides viewers with an insight into the world of hair care is a natural fit for Nexxus, a company with 30 years of salon experience.”

International model and handbag designer Camila Alves makes her hosting debut alongside new series judge Jonathan Antin, celebrity stylist and former star of Bravo’s hit series “Blow Out.” Famed stylist Kim Vo returns as a judge for his second season, and, new to the series, accomplished stylist Orlando Pita adds his voice of expertise as mentor to the contestants. Nexxus Creative Director and renowned stylist Kevin Mancuso will also join the panel on Wednesday, March 10th for the Nexxus Challenge episode

The world of styling is much bigger than just a salon – and Bravo’s “Shear Genius” offers a glimpse into that captivating and little-known arena. This season the challenges are more glamorous, the hair more knotty, and the competition more fierce, as the contestants attempt to demonstrate that their style is a cut above the rest.

Every Wednesday, beginning February 3rd, contestants will lather, rinse and compete in the “Shear Genius” Nexxus Salon. Fans of the show can enjoy the competition online by signing up with Nexxus on Facebook (click here – http://www.facebook.com/nexxus ) to receive tips for recreating the winning looks at home, “blow” by “blow” commentary from Nexxus Creative Director and celebrity guest judge Kevin Mancuso, and much more!

I had the amazing chance to interview Project Runway’s Nina Garcia for Style Interviews , just in time of the release of her latest book: The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own.

Nina Garcia.

So here it is:

Nina Garcia is one of Bravo’ Project Runway famous judges along with supermodel Heidi Klum, and fashion designer Michael Kors. Nina is also a magazine editor who until August 2008 acted as the Editor-at-Large of Elle Magazine. Nina is now a fashion director for Marie Claire Magazine. In 2007 Nina Garcia released her first book called: The Little Black Book of Style, by Harper Collins, which is a must-have read for any woman who would like to discover her own fashion sense.

In August 2008 Nina published her second book: The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own. In this interview Nina Garcia tells Marta Walsh what it takes to be successful in the fashion industry, the best part if being a judge on the Emmy nominated Bravo series Project Runway, her inspiration behind her latest book The One Hundred, and the Nina Garcia definition for style.

Why did you decide on a career in fashion and what does it take to be successful at it?
I was immediately drawn to the fashion industry’s constantly evolving nature. To be successful? It takes determination and a thick skin.

What is the best part of being a judge on Bravo’s Project Runway?
I love being a part of a show that has brought a great deal of attention to the fashion industry. I think it has made fashion cool again and it has illustrated that it is an industry full of creative, vibrant, intelligent people. I am very proud of that.

What was your inspiration behind your new book: The One Hundred?
Really, the inspiration came out of necessity. I had to move out of my apartment for 8 months while it was being renovated. I couldn’t take my whole closet with me, so I was forced to ask myself, what are the items I cannot live without? This is, for the most part, is a list of those items.

What is Nina Garcia’s definition for style?
You know when you can’t take your eyes off of someone and you are not sure why? That’s style.

What is next for Nina Garcia?
I just started a great new job at Marie Claire, I will be shooting the next season of Project Runway, and I have a few other ideas and opportunities rolling around. We’ll see. I’m always looking for a new challenge.