Soft Spoken

Our annual winter Sale kicked off just after Christmas, and judging by the orders, many people were still in the mood to shop, even with the holidays over!  It’s hard to resist a fantastic sale, and we have been offering many enticing items at terrific discounts.  We thought it would be fun to share with you our Sale’s “Greatest Hits,” a.k.a. the top 10 best sellers of the Sale.  These are the items that were irresistible for many of you, causing them to get scooped up again and again. Our Sale continues until Monday, January 30, 2012.  Don’t miss out – quantities are limited and items are selling FAST.  Hurry!

And the Top 10 Greatest Hits are. . . .

#10 – Tres Chic Sweater Coat

Was: $128.95; Now: $34.99

#9 – Rock Star Silk Shirt

Still available in English Rose or Black.

Was: $89.95; Now: $19.99

#8 – Tamayo Tunic

Still available in Candlelight and in Mazarine for select sizes.

Was: $79.95; Now: $19.99

#7 – Eliza Tunic

Still available in Black or White in limited sizes.

Was: $79.95; Now: $39.99

#6 – Classic Shirt

Still available in Black or White in limited sizes.

Was: $69.95; Now: $19.99

#5 – Simply Elegant Top

Still available in four elegant colors: Starry Night, Eggshell Blue, Candlelight or Seafoam (shown above).

Was: $69.95; Now: $29.99

#4 – Mayfair Shirt

Still available in four gorgeous hues: Glacier Blue (shown), Ink, Smokey Plum or Walnut.

Was: $89.95; Now: $29.95

#3 – Touch of Velvet Turtleneck

Still available in these fun colors: Mazarine Blue, Teal, Eggplant and Fawn (shown).

Was: $79.95; Now: $29.99

Buy 2 or more and save $5 each!

#2 – Longer Length Ballerina Tee

Was:  $44.95; Now: $19.99

Buy 2 or more and save $5 each!

And the #1 greatest Sale hit was . . . drum roll, please. . . .

A long-time customer favorite, Soft Surroundings’ classic Ballerina Tee!

#1 – Ballerina Tee

Was: $39.95; Now: $14.99

Buy 2 or more and save $5 each!

Porcelain skin, arched brows, perfect pouts…. oh, how glamorous women were back in 1950s and 60s! Many of their beauty tips are still worth trying today. And with a few updates and adjustments, you can make them work into your own modern-day beauty regime.

Mayonnaise for your hair? Whether or not you like it on your turkey club, it’s believed that the eggs used in traditional mayonnaise make your tresses glossy and gorgeous. You can still do the 30-minute mayo hair mask, but if you prefer not to raid the fridge for your next hair treatment, try a professional hair mask or treatment instead. Alterna’s Overnight Hair Rescue infuses hair with shine and vibrancy and deeply hydrates leaving your hair beautiful and healthy.

Back in the day, ladies would excuse themselves from the table to go powder their noses—blotting away any traces of excess oil from their pristine complexions. Today, we have options that do more than remove oil. Mai Couture’s portable 2 in 1 Oil Blotting Bronzing Papiers (available at Soft Surroundings beginning Feb. 1, 2012) eliminate excess oil, plus they deposit just the right amount of bronzer on your skin for a sun-kissed glow. Or try Jane Iredale’s Mineral Powder Foundation (available at Soft Surroundings beginning Feb. 1, 2012), which multitasks as a powder, foundation, concealer and sunscreen, plus has light-diffusing properties to give your face that “lit from within” radiance.

Your mother may have used egg whites to firm up her complexion. She may even have applied Frownies at bedtime, which have been tightening up famous faces overnight for more than a century. Frownies are still a cult beauty favorite today—and they really work! For an option that can be used during the day, try Joey New York’s Line Up gel or Goldfaden’s 3-in-1 Tightening and Firming Complex.

Katharine Hepburn maintained her radiant complexion by exfoliating regularly. Her at-home treatment? Sugar, a splash of warm water and a squeeze of lemon juice. Another way to buff away dead skin cells and even skintone is with Wei Pomegranate Buffing Beads, which are conveniently packaged in travel-ready individual packets—perfect when you’re on-the-go.

Bright red lipstick was all the rage back in the 1950s. (Think Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly and Bettie Page, amongst others.) But finding the right shade of red that works for you can be a challenge. Not anymore, thanks to Duwop’s Perfect Red Kit. This color-changing lipstick morphs to the exact shade of red to suit your individual coloring.

by Artie Vanderpool of Color Outside the Lines

January not only means a new year, it means it’s time to start making realities out of all those resolutions you made in December, and to begin looking at everything around you with a positive, and fresh perspective. Why not start at Home? Soft Surroundings believes in providing you with unique and quality pieces that reflect your very sophisticated taste, and I believe in providing you with simple and easy ways to use those items to make your home just as fabulous and sophisticated as you are!

Worry not, this is not a post inciting whirlwind renovations across your entire home; rather a simple list of some of my favorite tips for how to easily and inexpensively freshen up the look of your home in 2012.

1. Add Life

Add life in your rooms with flowers and plants. Flowers are arriving at home centers, florists, and even grocery stores everywhere in droves, as the winter greenhouses ship out their big spring batch. A full low arrangement can add color, spice, and life to any area of your home! Arrange your own flowers and save hundreds; find small containers and cut the stems short, and always buy twice as many as you think you’ll need.

2. Paint

Get out the brush and touch up those scuffed spots left from Christmas Tree boughs, and Uncle John’s electric scooter during this year’s New Years Eve Bash. Don’t forget the baseboard, moldings, and crown, too! If you’re looking for a fresh new color, try one of the popular neutrals for 2012 from Benjamin Moore.

 3. Toss Up

In my house, I have a closet filled with pillow covers, throws, and slips (slipcovers) for almost every mood. Now is a great time to switch out those dark red velvets, with light linens and cashmere, and slipcover those dining room chairs! Take the opportunity now to change out the dark and cozy, for the light and comfy! You’ll love the difference it makes! If you’re looking for beautiful and comfortable toss pillows, check out the beautiful selection of decorative throw pillows at Soft Surroundings.

4. Seek Inspiration

Need a tip on what’s popular this year? Take a trip to your local home design center, clothing store, mall, or simply take a look around Soft Surroundings’ Home Decor section for inspiring photo vignettes of our newest collections for your home.

5. Switch It Up

My biggest tip for someone looking for a complete overhaul this New Year: SWITCH IT UP! Move your dining room into your living room, and vice versa! Your friends will wonder where you bought all the great new furniture, and you’ll be amazed at how different your house can be when you color outside the lines!

Artie Vanderpool is an artist, designer, and blogger at Color Outside the Lines.

On Thursday, January 12, 2012, Dr. Gary Goldfaden held a live Facebook Q&A for Soft Surroundings’ customers.  He answered questions and gave beauty advice and tips to all of the attendees. Watch the video here…

Have you ever stared into your closet and wondered how on earth you got to this point? Perhaps you have a hodge-podge of fabulous items that individually look great, but are limiting in how and when they can be worn. For example, that luxurious faux fur coat. It’s gorgeous in the evening, at a formal gala, but doesn’t transition from night to day. And it’s really only for winter, when it’s very cold. Otherwise you’ll melt in it.

Then there is that one top that you were giddy to buy, and have since only worn once. It’s a one-timer that has had its 15-minutes of fame, which cannot be re-created (or maybe should not be re-created, depending on how the evening went). Therefore to the back of the closet it goes, memories and all.

But what about this. . .wouldn’t  it be GREAT to be able to create multiple “new” outfits from some basic pieces that you can wear again and again? Basic pieces that are actually stylish, and can even stand on their own? If you are curious how you can mix and match clothing so it feels new all over again, we are here to help!  Here are some of our *favorite* pieces that can be mixed and matched, dressed-up or dressed down – classy enough for a day at the office, but can also move seamlessly into an evening cocktail party or weekend outing.

	Sandwashed Denim ShirtThe Sandwashed Denim Shirt is an incredibly versatile shirt that maintains its earthiness and style whether dressed up for a business meeting or dressed down for a relaxing weekend at home.Pair with an ankle-skimming skirt, like our Sophie Sweater Skirt, stacked boots, bangles and striking earrings, topped off with a gorgeous belt, and you have a look that will turn heads. Items featured are our Heirloom Boots,  Horsebit Belt, and Fine Feathered Earring.
Match this comfy denim shirt with jeans, over-the-knee boots, and pull on our Toulouse Topper, and you’ve got a whole new look that says you are ready for a casual, relaxing weekend. (Psst . . this topper is on *SALE* through January 30, 2012.) Additional Soft Surroundings’ items shown are our Metro Denim Legging, Studded Fedora and Berkeley Boot.
	Great Shape TurtleneckWe love, love, love this item!  Not only does it look great under sweaters and cardigans, but it looks absolutely stunning on its own. You won’t find another turtleneck that is so flattering yet so versatile. Wear our Great Shape Turtleneck alone, under sweaters or jackets and ponchos.
Shown with our Great Shape Turtleneck are our Long Walk Sweater (psst. . now on *SALE* through January 30, 2012)…
	and our Snuggly Sweater.
Pictured with the Great Shape Turtleneck are our Serafina Suede Jacket and our Portia Poncho.
Charlize ShirtThe classic-looking Charlize Shirt looks fabulous all by its lonesome or underneath a sharp blazer or lovely sweater.  The ruffled stand-up collar adds loads of femininity.
The Charlize Shirt is shown here with our Middleburg Jacket and Rosette Cardigan.
	Back Zip TopWe love the surprise zipper on this softly flowing top, making it a unique piece to add to your wardrobe. We also love that it looks great as a layering piece under a sweater, making it even more versatile! Check out out the Back Zip Top under our Amelia Sweater (psst. . this sweater is on *SALE* until January 30, 2012).
What are YOUR favorite Soft Surroundings’ items to mix and match?  We would love to hear!

Thanks to all who attended!  Congratulations to Suanne Keller, the winner of the “Whole Routine” gift basket.

1. Out with the old.

There’s something freeing about getting rid of clutter, and the new year is a great time to make a start! Instead of getting stressed at the thought of this monumental task, start small. Get one thing out of the way—like a drawer, a closet or a room—and then move on to the next. Pack up old clothes and housewares that you haven’t touched in years and take them to your favorite charity, put them aside for a garage sale, or give them to someone you know who can get real use out of them. If you only have a few minutes, you can make a start by going through your makeup bag and tossing out old cosmetics.

2. Learn something new.

It’s good for your brain, good for your body, and good for the soul. Maybe it’s time to try Pilates, learn how to speak Italian or give French cooking a whirl. Perhaps you’d like to learn a new computer program, study modern art or take up a musical instrument. Many colleges and universities—or possibly your local YMCA or community center—offer adult education courses. Find something that interests you and pursue it!

3. Go green.

Little changes can lead to big results for the planet. Start small—turn off lights when you’re not in the room. Unplug appliances when they’re not in use. Swap your incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescents or LED lights. Opt for cloth napkins instead of paper ones. Buy a reusable BPA-free water bottle to help reduce all the plastic bottles that clog up landfills.

4. Resolve to eat healthier.

Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But we’re not talking about diets here; we’re talking about eating healthier. Look at the labels of the food you eat and try to avoid things that are loaded with chemicals and preservatives. Search out your local farmers’ markets and get to know the people in your area who grow your food. Buying food that’s locally grown and in season isn’t just great for the community and the environment, it actually tastes better.

5. And finally… do something just for you.

Whether it’s taking a yoga class, getting a massage, enjoying a long soak in the tub or curling up in your favorite chair with a good book—take time every day to do something to nurture yourself. You deserve it!

Soft Stories are written by Soft Surroundings customers.  Click here to learn how to submit your Soft Story.

 Dear Ms. Robin Sheldon:  

This note is long over due – I just wanted to congratulate you and your company Soft Surroundings for selling such unique – good quality clothing, and always selecting tasteful items.  My name is Maria (Mily) Delgado, most of my friends call me Mily – and I have been one of your Miami customers for at least 3-4 years.  I always receive such great compliments when friends and family see me wearing Soft Surroundings skirts and blouses. Recently, I was approached by a local magazine for another project and I had to take pictures and sent them in – I don’t know which photo will be published yet,  nevertheless, I wanted to share one of the photos with you as I am wearing my favorite skirt from Soft Surroundings.

 
Thank you again for making my shopping a bit easier and maintaining the lady like dressing concept alive – the way I like it to be – Thank you again….

Keep up the good work and I hope you enjoy the photo.  

Mily

Dear Friends,

Happy New Year from Soft Surroundings! Thank you for making this our best year yet! I hope this letter finds you well.

In 2012, remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish – it’s smart. It’s essential. It will enhance your life and the lives of those around you.

With the beginning of this new year, all things seem possible once again. If you aren’t living your dreams, this year, take a step towards them – make a plan. Do this for yourself. It’s never too late!

Remember that you are one of a kind, unique and indisputably special. Celebrate your individuality. Pass it on.

All the Best,

Robin

President & Founder

By Gary Goldfaden MD – Dermatologist

Cosmetic dermatology is one of the most profitable areas of medical practice today. Americans pay top dollar for facial treatments that partially reverse the outward signs of skin aging. One reason people keep going back to dermatologists is that these topical anti-aging treatments provide an immediate (albeit temporary) improvement in skin appearance.

While most people associate cosmetic dermatology with surgical face-lifts, the three most popular procedures performed today are Botox^® injections, collagen injections, and MicroDermAbrasion.

 MicroDermAbrasion is a type of skin exfoliation that removes cells at the skin’s surface. MicroDermAbrasion is a peeling technique accomplished by a machine that power-sprays fine crystal granules onto the skin. These crystals lightly exfoliate the skin’s upper layers, resulting in smoother, younger-appearing skin.

MicroDermAbrasion was developed in the mid-1990s as an alternative to risky, inconsistent forms of skin peeling. The cost of each treatment ranges from approximately $150 to $500, and can involve a lot of time spent in a doctor’s office.

No matter how hard we try not to age, the clock is always ticking. Although we cannot yet stop our bodies from aging, we can take steps to slow down and even reverse some of the unsightly signs of aging that materialize on the surface of our skin.

Our skin’s appearance is the most visible sign of the aging process. Fortunately, topically applied agents have been shown to repair and rejuvenate aged skin. Some are available over the counter, while others require a prescription.

The process of exfoliation—removing old cells at the surface of skin to allow younger and smoother-looking skin cells to appear—long ago was shown to help reverse the signs of aging. Back in the 1980s, alpha-hydroxyl fruit acids became popular because of their ability to help “unglue” dead cells that cling to the skin’s surface. These dead or damaged cells create some of the unsightly signs of aging.

While the alpha-hydroxyl fruit acids help, old and damaged cells require mechanical exfoliation to be removed. This is where MicroDermAbrasion comes in. It mechanically removes (exfoliates) older cells at the skin’s surface to allow healthier cells to show through.

Exfoliation Improves Skin Appearance

Once the dead and damaged skin cells are removed, the outer layer of new skin becomes visible. This new skin feels softer, smoother, and reflects light easier, making fine lines harder to see. Age spots and unwanted pigment are also less noticeable because the dead skin cells containing the pigment have been removed. Exfoliation removes plugged pores, prevents the pores from re-plugging, and allows for the release of natural oils. In addition, regular exfoliation decreases pore size and minimizes many types of superficial scars. All of this contributes to making the skin look tighter, healthier, and more youthful.

Exfoliation Complements Other Skin Products

After removing the dead and damaged cells through exfoliation of the skin, other anti-aging agents such retinoic acid, moisturizers, antioxidants, and collagen-boosting nutrients are better able to penetrate the skin and work more effectively. This also holds true for acne medications and other types of skin treatments where penetration is important. This is an additional reason why regular exfoliation should be part of a basic skin care regimen.

Areas that Benefit from Frequent Exfoliation

While all areas of the aging body contain unsightly cells that will benefit from regular exfoliation of the skin, the most obvious target locations are the face, the chest, the “v” of the neck (or decollete area), the exposed scalp area, and the top of the hands. These areas show the most immediate beneficial effects of frequent exfoliation.

Today, MicroDermAbrasion is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic skin procedures in the US, and until recently was available only through the use of in-office machines. The creation of at home self-microdermabrasion products offer the same, if not superior, results as those of in-office MicroDermAbrasion treatments. These products are available for people to maintain fresh, youthful looking skin, free from some of the unsightly ravages of environmental toxins and normal aging.

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More Goldfaden products coming to SoftSurroundings.com on Tuesday, Jan. 10!  Click this Goldfaden link on Jan. 10 to gain access to these fabulous products from Dr. Gary Goldfaden:

Dr. Goldfaden’s Daily Scrub (item # 04119)

Dr. Goldfaden’s Daily Cleanser (item # 04118)

Dr. Goldfaden’s Pure Power (item # 04121)

Dr. Goldfaden’s 3-in-1 Daily Moisturizer (item # 04116)

Dr. Goldfaden’s 3-in-1 Power Moisturizer (item #04117)

Dr. Goldfaden’s Bright Eyes (item #04122)

Dr. Goldfaden’s Vitamin D Body Lotion (item #04120)

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Mark your calendar!  Dr. Gary Goldfaden is participating in an *exclusive* Facebook Chat Party on Soft Surroundings Facebook page on Thursday, January 12 at 1 PM CST.  This is an interactive chat session where you can ask Dr. Goldfaden, a dermatologist and creator of the Goldfaden skin care line, your questions about skin care and skin health. We hope you can join us!