The Real Scoop On Body Contouring Lipomassage
This is year that I’m going to tighten up my tummy. I mean business. I’m just so fed up with having a mushy muffin-top, and I have no more excuses since I’m not planning on having any more kids. The problem is that after having weathered some pretty big phases of weight gain during my pregnancies, I fear that diet and exercise alone won’t give me the results I want. Actually, I know they won’t, because it’s been a solid year that I’ve been working out religiously and eating pretty cleanly, and though I’ve lost a lot of weight, my stomach still spills out of my jeans.
Since I’ve given the good old-fashioned muscle method a thorough go (and always will), I’ve decided that it’s time to get some extra “help.” I contemplated a tummy tuck, but it seems too invasive, and I freaked out after watching Kate Gosselin’s consultation (which also made me feel a little bit better about my stomach situation). So I started researching less invasive procedures, and decided to try the new Lipomassage by Endermologie. “It is the only scientifically proven technique, targeting the fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. To date, all our clients who have experienced this technology have been extremely satisfied,” says Nicole Contos, CEO of NYC’s Smooth Synergy Spa, one of the few medispas that has the latest LPG Lipomassage machine, called the Integral.
Here’s how the treatment works: You strip down, then slip on a body stocking (think of a unitard made out of pantyhose), then the specialist massages your body with the machine’s new Ergodrive head, which is equipped with a bunch of motorized rollers that lift up and knead your skin in various different directions. This “mechano-stimluation” of the skin’s surface is proven to stimulate a deep biological response to eliminate fat cells, reduce cellulite, firm the skin, improve lymphatic drainage and overall reshape the contours of your body–all without any cutting, sucking, or other unpleasantries. Each treatment costs $150 and takes about 45 minutes, and upon my first consultation, I was told that I may see results after the first session, but should commit to at least six or eight sessions, getting two a week, to start reaping the benefits. A total of 20 sessions is suggested to see maximum results, after which you can go into maintenance mode with one monthly treatment. I was a little afraid of the cost and time commitment, but stayed the course because, as I said, I mean business.
Hairstyles That Make You Look Thinner
I have to say I felt a little slimmer after the first treatment, but it wasn’t until after my third treatment that I started to notice visible results. I could see that my stomach skin was more toned, less squishy and didn’t have that bloated look. I was really impressed. Maybe it was a slight body change that only I would notice, but it was enough to make me a believer, and I wound up doing a total of 10 sessions. Each week I saw a little more improvement, and by the end of five weeks, I can definitely say that I’ve gone down one pant size. I should point out that I kept up my workout regimen and good eating habits at the same time. In fact, I was told Lipomassage results are actually enhanced when you work out soon after a treatment because it’s easier for your body to flush out the toxins and fat.
The most challenging part of the whole process was finding the time to fit it into my day, but once I made it to the spa and lied down on the table, I was thrilled to get those 45 minutes of “me” time, and the procedure is actually very relaxing. It was just the treatment I needed to get back into all of my pre-pregnancy clothes, so while I did have to shell out a lot of money and etch out the time, I feel like I’ve gained a whole new wardrobe, as well as some much-needed body confidence. Like most spas, Smooth Synergy offers a discount if you buy a series of 10, 15 or 20 sessions, so if you are contemplating Lipomassage, be sure to ask about package deals.
Now, in all honestly, I won’t commit to getting into a bikini too fast–there are still some issues that maybe only plastic surgery could truly fix, but for now, I’m happy with my Lipomassage results.
Are you considering trying any type of body contouring treatments? Tell us!
By: Rachel Hayes
Photo: Frederic Cirou @ PhotoAlto Agency RF Collections
 DailyMakeover.com from Makeover Solutions, Inc., is the web’s leading beauty information site, providing virtual makeover technology and content for women to create personalized makeovers. DailyMakeover.com’s virtual Makeover Studio enables users to see themselves wearing numerous hairstyles, makeup shades and fashion accessories to create their best makeovers, which can be saved, printed, or emailed. DailyMakeover.com is headquartered in New York City. |
Peter Davis on Style, New York and his new SCENE
Peter Davis, one of my favorite New York City blue bloods is certainly one to watch! I was so excited to hear about the launch of SCENE, his own society glossy backed by Jared Kushner of The New York Observer. The former Editor in Chief of Avenue Magazine and born and bred Manhattanite (he is related to the Mortimer family and his great grandfather founded The Davis Cup) gives us an inside look at NYC’s old and new elite–SCENE is unique because it is not just a magazine about them, but by them. In the first issue, biting features like Where in the World is John Galliano and The Socialite/The Shopping Site/The Scandal! are sure to ruffle a few feathers. I caught up with the stylish literati where he shares some of his insider secrets and the scoop on SCENE.
Melissa Meyers: Congratulations on the launch of SCENE. What can we expect from the publication?
Peter Davis: SCENE is all about insiders taking you inside every corner of New York. Next month, Carson Griffith’s monthly column “Haute Spot” for example gives you all the secret scoop on Super Linda, the boite of the moment – from where to sit and who to know and when to go. We also have three investigative features every month that are long and in depth – very Vanity Fair and though some are set in New York, they appeal to people all over the globe. They can be a tad scandalous and the hardest part of my job is that I by nature truly strive to be nice to everyone and I’ve had to make some hard decisions. I know that some of the articles I publish will rile people up, some of them friends, but I am an Editor in Chief and when I question how far I should push the envelope, I think of my hero Graydon Carter and say to myself, ‘Graydon would publish this story because it’s a great article and wouldn’t worry about pissing off the subjects.’ These are news stories – we are not a tabloid who goes through people’s trash, but when rich people behave badly, they need to be called out, especially when they break the law. And in addition to great features, there are plenty of party pictures, fashion, amazing things to crave and a great Pop Art influenced palate. The sharp eyes of our Creative Director Cricket Burns and Art Director Dean Quigley always blow me away. All of the covers will be supermodels (the next issue is my friend Hilary Rhoda). Celebrity covers and the puff pieces about them bore me. We will cover celebrities that fascinate us, people like the mysterious and talented Justin Theroux, but not just giving them pages as a platform to promote a movie and talk about how great they are.
Where in the World is John Galliano
MM: How did you come up with the idea of SCENE and then make it happen?
PD: Avenue was a great EIC training experience, but I grew frustrated with the creative handcuffs I was forced to wear. The magazine aimed to be best friends with everyone and that is fine and dandy, but doesn’t exactly make for compelling reading 12 months a year. I did skew younger with the magazine, putting Hannah Bronfman on one cover (dubbing her “Girl of the Year”) and Alexandra Richards on another cover with all the other hot DJ girls like Chelsea Leyland on the inside. But Avenue’s longtime publisher Julie Dannenberg and Cricket and I knew there was room for something bigger and better than Avenue. And also so-called “society” isn’t just limited to the Upper East Side, which is the only neighborhood Avenue is delivered. People who are social and interesting and innovators are all over the city from Harlem to Tribeca to the West Village and SCENE is distributed to every corner of the city as well as news stands. And it isn’t a magazine only for rich, but for everyone who loves New York, great writing (sharing offices and being able to use the amazing writers from The New York Observer is a huge plus) and beautiful, stylish visuals.
Girlfriend Fun Guide: New York City
New York City is our home and home to our flagship event, so it’s no wonder we’re so excited to share some of our favorite city establishments with all of you. Girls Night Out New York City is June 22-24, so be sure to get your tickets! Whether you’re coming in from out of town, or happen to call the tri-state area home, be sure to check out what we consider the city’s hottest haunts.
To Eat: The Meatball Shop, 84 Stanton Street, NY, NY (212) 982-8895
Why We 
It:
The wait is usually pretty long (but so worth it!), and now that temps are rising, it’ll be much more comfortable to dilly dally while you wait!
Their homemade ice cream sandwiches allow you to mix and match their ice cream flavors with their cookies, resulting in absolute heaven. Now that summer is approaching, they’re pretty much a must-eat.
If waiting isn’t your thing, you can always get take-out and enjoy the deliciousness on the go!
To Relax: Ten Over Ten, 112 Reade Street, NY, NY (212) 406-1010
Why We 
It:
This downtown nail salon feels like a relaxed apartment.
iPads are available for all manicure or pedicure clients so you can get things done and/or relax while you indulge.
Vintage décor enhances the ambiance of this chic yet low-key space.
To Shop: Green Depot, 222 Bowery NY, NY and other national locations (212) 226-0444
Why We It:
They have a ton of outdoor and gardening supplies so that you can really utilize your green thumb this season.
Their tagline is “environmental building and living” so if you wish to get green in other areas, this is your place!
Even if you have nothing on your list, this is a great store to browse and gain inspiration for future projects.
To Shop: Calypso St. Barth, 13 locations in New York City and other national locations
Why We It:
These oh-so-summery pieces totally channel the beach.
They currently have a diffusion line at Target for way reasonable prices!
Love the Bead Pom Pom Tunic ($225). It’s a little expensive, but so perfect for the seashore.
To Eat: Eataly, 200 5th Avenue, NY, NY (212) 229-2560
Why We It:
This Italian Candyland is really quite indescribable. Part market, part restaurant(s), whole amazingness.
Though no official date has been confirmed, a rooftop beer garden is set to open any day now…which will be perfect come the warmer months!
Whether you’re looking to cook up an Italian feast at home, chow down on one or simply browse, don’t be surprised if you end up staying in Eataly for hours.
To Stay: Blue Moon, 100 Orchard Street, NY, NY (212) 533-9080
Why We It:
Located on the Lower East Side in a 19th-century tenement, this hotel gives off a very unique vibe.
The space feels completely old-school with sleek and sophisticated modern touches like quaint balconies and terraces off many (generously spacious) guest rooms.
Complimentary continental breakfast is available every morning with delicious food, including bagels from famed Kossar’s.
Photo Credits: Sheckys.com
 Sheckys.com lets you share your man’s mystifying moments, get easy tips for the healthiest, happiest and most fashionable you, discover our Girls Night Out events and more, all while earning OMG Points toward free goodies! |
A Run/Walk to Remember: The 14th Annual EIF Revlon Run/Walk for Women
By Colleen Hagerty
I’m sure I’m not alone in saying there are very few things that can get me out before 8 A.M. on a Saturday morning. However, when I heard about the 14th Annual Entertainment Industry Foundation Revlon Run/Walk for Women, I knew I had found something worth waking up early for!
The event—which takes place in both New York and California—raises funds and awareness for women’s cancers with a 5k run/walk and regularly boasts some of today’s hottest celebrities as hosts. The star-studded April 30th Run/Walk in New York City did not disappoint, with Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Jimmy Fallon, Nate Berkus, and Dr. Mehmet Oz all coming out as early as 7 A.M. to host the event in Times Square. Despite the early hour, both Jessica Biel and Jessica Alba looked enviably flawless as the Revlon Global Brand Ambassadors, with Alba sporting a chic, short hairstyle and baby bump!
A crowd of 20,000 gathered in the closed-off Times Square to watch them take the stage for a pre-run celebration, which included a soulful performance by Grammy-nominated artist Keyshia Cole. Then, after a countdown from Jimmy Fallon and a shower of confetti, the run was off! The crowd was led by Matt Bomer, who was given the honor of driving the Toyota Pace Car in front of the run—a smart choice, as the White Collar heartthrob is undoubtedly used to being chased by women!
Participants could choose to either run or walk from Times Square to Central Park, where there was a promise of swag and treats at the finish line. Having been almost able to keep up with the super-charged Nate Berkus on the run, I rewarded myself at the finish line with a delicious cupcake courtesy of the bakery behind TLC’s D.C. Cupcakes.
Check out the video above to see the stars and the incredible crowd in action—not bad for an early Saturday morning!
Let Me Tell You about My First Time
My friend and fellow PageDaily editor Daniela and I were invited to preview the spring menu at Bar Paya, an East Village restaurant and wine bar specializing in authentic Peruvian cuisine with a contemporary twist. As I walked into the restaurant, escaping the cold, I immediately felt like I escaped New York itself. Dark and cozy, the restaurant is lit with just 1 stunning, modern chandelier over the marble bar at its center. Candles are scattered across the bar top, with dimmed clear bulbs hanging over each table—the perfect spot for date night. Wine bottles line 1 wall, while the others, paneled in natural wood, are decorated with personal photographs taken while travelling in Peru. I couldn’t wait to be seated—and eat!
The menu is made up of 5 different, and I recommend ordering 4–5 plates per couple, ideal for sharing. Since my dinner date and I were hungry (read starving!), we ordered 5 plates, starting with the guacamole. Minutes later, a giant plate of mashed avocado with huge chunks of lobster and shrimp sat in front of us. We dug in with toasted plantain chips, and I never tasted better guacamole! I didn’t care that it wasn’t Mexican; this dish made me a convert to the twist. While we were devouring the first course, our second dish arrived—my first ceviche. We went with the tuna ceviche, served with pineapple bites, Peruvian corn, and a scoop of sweet potato. This might have been my favorite dish of the night, but there were plenty more on their way, and I was excited!
Next came grilled-chicken skewers marinated in aji amarillo, a Peruvian yellow chile pepper that gave the dish quite a kick, and grilled hanger steak with yucca fries and 3 dipping sauces. I was in protein heaven! Both meats were mouth-wateringly delicious, and the fries were a perfect, crispy side dish—especially since I’ve decided I want to live on potatoes for the rest of my life (hey, a girl can dream).
Last up for our savory dishes was what our waiter called “a hidden gem,” the barbecued-duck dumplings. A Peruvian causa—a traditional dish made by layering mashed potatoes with tuna salad and avocado—came with a gourmet twist. Ours were served on a thick potato base topped with shredded barbecued duck, then garnished with a toasted plantain. Another first for me—duck—was a success, and a hidden gem it definitely was!
Since we passed on cocktails at the start of the night, we ordered drinks with dessert (panna cotta with pisco tangerines, coconut, and almond slivers) for a great end to the night. I went with the Aji Punch, a spicy and tart cocktail made with mango nectar, pisco (brandy), and spices, while my date went with the Pomegranate Mojito.
After an adventurous meal (for me) and my first experience with Peruvian cuisine, I can’t wait to expand my palette even further! AND I can’t wait to go back to Bar Paya to sample its new brunch menu, this time with my favorite Peruvian coworker, Dania Slochowski—who has been quite envious since I recounted my meal. —Lindsay Leff
Bar Paya
65 Second Avenue, New York
212.777.6965
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Celebrity A-Lister Hang in Cabaret Style at the Darby
I recently had a fun night out in New York City at the Darby, a supper club fashioned after those made famous in the 40s and 50s with their celebrity clientele, like the El Morocco. This updated incarnation has a swanky, hip crowd where media, fashion, and finance meet. Celebrity fans include Leo DiCaprio, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Ryan Seacrest, Charlize Theron, and Liv Tyler, to name a few.
The Darby, located in the Meatpacking District in what used to be the nightclub Nell’s, is the brainchild of Scott Sartiano, Richie Akiva, and executive chef Alex Guarnaschelli (the creative team from Butter). The space has an opulent feel, with dark-red, upholstered banquettes lining the back wall, oversized chandeliers, and antique oak chairs. The cabaret-style setting, with several tables in front of the stage, adds to the plush, heady atmosphere.
The minute you walk into the Darby, you feel as if you have been transported back in time. The lounge area with a bar is immediately on the right as you walk in. We headed straight to the bar and tried cocktails with names like Sunday Fizz, made with pink grapefruit vodka, and Spicy Dame, which is the Darby’s most popular cocktail (pictured) and is made with Belvedere Intense Vodka, mint, cucumber, jalapeño, and ginger syrup.
Once we were seated, our hostess adorned with blonde Heidi braids, explained, “The band will come on and sing in 20-minute sets, so you may want to order your food before they start—it can get loud.” We did, and soon after, the band took the stage.
The talented Darby house band includes lead singers Ron Grant and Lady Rizo (known as the House Mistress and always outfitted by Marchesa), who belted out a variety of tunes from Broadway and jazz to hip-hop and Motown. When Ron sang Lionel Richie’s “All Night Long,” it was an ’80s flashback. Now flash forward to today. John Mayer recently gave an impromptu performance at Gerard Butler’s birthday dinner. A few weeks later, Glee actor Charice Pempengco took the stage. Last Tuesday, Prince performed!
Seems there are celebs singing no matter when you’re there—or where. At one point, I went to the ladies’ room and heard singing in the stall next to me. The most beautiful, familiar voice. The bathroom doors swung open at the same time—and OMG, it was Mary J. Blige! I had interviewed her on the red carpet at the Gotham Magazine 10th Annual Gala. We had a good laugh!
The Darby’s food and service are very good, and the classic American dishes are made with market-fresh ingredients. Menu highlights include oysters Rockefeller and lobster Newberg. This type of heavy cuisine is usually not my thing. No worries—there is plenty of lighter fare. We enjoyed the tuna tartare with hazelnuts and hen-of-the-woods mushrooms, the mixed-shellfish platter, the grilled striped bass, and the seared filet mignon. If you are a raw-bar fan, the impressive selection includes several types of oysters (my husband Michael ordered the bluepoints and thought they were fresh and delicious). I loved the baked Alaska and the dark-chocolate soufflé for dessert!
Theatrical dining experience, good food, great entertainment, and Hollywood glamour all under one roof? Run, don’t walk—if you can score a reservation! —Melissa Meyers
The Darby
246 West 14th Street (Seventh and Eighth)
212-242-4411
Glam New Gym—$20 Membership
As a recent college graduate, I find my desire to hit the gym almost nonexistent. Not to mention that the sky-high prices of a fitness-club membership would practically wipe out my paycheck. Blink Fitness, however, may have just changed forever the way I view the gym.
I had the pleasure of attending the opening of Blink Fitness’ new location right here in New York City’s NoHo area. Blink Fitness Clubs are state-of-the-art and only charge $20 a month for a membership! No, that’s not a typo—it’s really only $20 a month. There are no additional initiation fees. And the best part, you can pay month-to-month. Blink’s deal is very straightforward. There are no classes and no personal trainers, just an amazing facility that’s designed to get you motivated and in great shape. I love this idea, because I rarely take classes at the gym or use the personal trainers. Why should I pay all that extra money for those services, when I just plan to use the treadmill? Give Blink Fitness a shot with its 2-day trial, and see if it’s a good fit for you! —Olivia Hayes
Hot Brits Serve Sexy Food: The Fat Radish
I discovered Silkstone Catering and Events, the creative team behind the Fat Radish restaurant, when I attended an event at the offices of HSN this fall. FEED Projects co-founder Lauren Bush and HSN CEO Mindy Grossman were collaborating with UNICEF to launch the FEED Trick-or-Treat Bag. I happened to notice how yummy and unusual the hors d’oeuvres were while at the event,so I asked one of the servers for a card.
Being a fan of everything organic, I called to get some info on the food and heard that Silkstone Catering had just opened a restaurant called “The Fat Radish.” (I thought the name was quite interesting—and the restaurant does serve fresh radishes with an olive oil tapenade at each table.) I learned about Silkstone’s unique concept and that it happens to be the caterer of choice to several celebrities and the NYC fashion scene. It was time to check it out . . .
So, my husband and I headed downtown with some good friends to try the Fat Radish. I was told that the restaurant’s interior was inspired by London’s original Covent Garden marketplace. The Fat Radish definitely has a down-to-earth, minimalist feel that combines the original, historic, Chinatown details with a welcoming, communal environment. We all loved the distressed farmhouse tables.The crowd was young and hip without being pretentious—a really good vibe. The menu is eclectic and well-executed. Dishes to try include the beet crumble with aged cheddar and oats, the cured lemon sole with pumpkin seed and dandelion, and our favorite—the honey-glazed duck with kombucha squash and wheat berries.The dark-chocolate and beetroot cake and caramelized banana and cream desserts were amazing, too!
What makes the food special at the Fat Radish is that it offers modern British cooking with an emphasis on farm-to-table practices and local sourcing. (In fact, there is nothing else like it in NYC.) The talented duo of Brits Ben Towill and Phil Winser are the creative team behind this unique eatery, and source the finest seasonal produce from specialist local farms to create healthy, delicious dishes.
The Fat Radish wine list was created by Erin Fitzpatrick. Many of the wines are bio-dynamic and are produced in family vineyards that use sound farming and vinification practices. Erin also serves as a sommelier at Manhattan’s famed Waverly Inn.
The cocktail menu is also of interest and is curated by David Clelland, one of Britain’s leading mixologists and head bartender from Apotheke. Clelland has created fresh cocktails for The Fat Radish that reflects the fruits, herbs, and spices in season. —Melissa Meyers
The Fat Radish
17 Orchard Street (between Hester and Canal)
212.300.4053
Keeping Up With Kim Kardashian
Ok, I admit it, I’m addicted to reality TV! Whether it’s Kim, Kourtney, Khloe, or even Mason, I always want to catch up with the Kardashian clan. When I found out that Kim Kardashian would enter my actual reality in New York City, I just had to catch a glimpse of the starlet.
So Wednesday night, Colleen Hagerty and I entered Macy’s in Herald Square. She was the perfect partner in crime, as we both are usually glued to the tube for reality television. On the first floor, just beyond the jewelry section, a small space was roped off. Now, I have to explain—getting into this roped- off area was more difficult than trying to get into the VIP section at a club. Security blocked every possible entrance. Even after being on the list, we had to be confirmed by three different people before we could be placed in the press section.
As each minute passed by, the excitement and intensity grew. It seemed like every Macy’s employee was just as eager to be in Kim Kardashian’s presence. The women working in the perfume section were in the perfect position to catch all the action as they stood on their tippy-toes behind the counters. We, however, were fortunate enough to be placed front-row right next to the Kim and Kourtney Take New York crew. (Look for us in January when the new season premieres on E!)
When Kim finally appeared from behind the backdrop, she gleefully spoke about the launch of her new fragrance. After two years, she explained, this launch was a dream come true. The perfume combines all of her favorite scents in one royal purple bottle. After thanking her fans, she then took photos with the first 300 customers to buy her four-piece fragrance set.
As we began to gather our things and leave, it was obvious that this Kardashian attracted fans both young and old. From a teenager to an older man, each was more than willing (and ecstatic) to wait in line for hours to meet the reality star for mere seconds—now that’s dedication! I have to say, this celeb-sighting not only made my day but my whole month! Like so many other fans, I will anxiously be awaiting to keep up with Kim and Kourtney when the new season premieres!
Stay tuned for our video of Kim Kardashian’s fragrance debut at Macy’s! —Lindsay Hahn
Sweetiepie Restaurant: How Sweet It Is
While my days of running around in all-pink ensembles and thinking candy = dinner are unfortunately over, I still love to indulge my inner child by visiting Sweetiepie in the West Village. With a mirrored, pink décor (imagine Barbie goes to Versailles) and a menu that will please the pickiest palettes, Sweetiepie is a great place to take anyone from the actually young to the young at heart for a delicious meal. My favorite: the teeny tiny ice cream cones, practically so bite-sized I’m tempted to order a second round!—Colleen Hagerty
Sweetiepie Restaurant
19 Greenwich Ave (between Christopher and 10th)
New York, NY, 10014
212.337.3333
