Bistro Chic

British women "dress to impress" for a raise or promotion.

Leave it to Bridget Jones to do something drastic to get the boss’ attention…and I don’t mean keeping a diary. Like the fictitious character, many British women sleep with their bosses, but several new studies reveal that British workers will do this to actually get ahead at the office.

In tough economic times, it is not unheard of for workers to resort to unorthodox tactics to score a raise, promotion, or even extra perks at work. But recent studies suggest that British workers would rather “earn” their promotion by proving their skills as lovers rather than workers. Just last week, a study by the UK recruitment scoring group, HireScores, found that 1 in 5 British workers would sleep with their boss, while 1 in 4 would kiss their boss, all for a quick promotion. A similar 2008 survey found that 1 in 5 British would flirt with the boss to get the same.

Although the study found that men were more willing than women to use their charm to advance their careers, women are no strangers to using their looks to get what they want at work. Earlier this year, a study by fashion forum Web site, theragtrader.com, found that British women are willing to dress provocatively at the office in hopes of climbing the corporate ladder. The study showed that 27% of those surveyed would wear a “risky” outfit to work if it meant that they had a better chance for a raise or promotion and 20% revealed that they use this tactic on a regular basis.

But all British workers are not without scruples. Nearly 40% of British workers surveyed reported that they would work their way up the corporate ladder by working hard, long hours with no guarantee of a promotion or raise.

How far would you go for a raise or promotion?

French Authorities Advise Citizens to Put a Cork in It

France without wine? Mon Dieu – that’s blasphemy. Who would have thought that a country full of vineyards and wineries would recommend against drinking their own product? Well, France has done just that!

Last week, France’s Ministry of Health (MoH) released guidelines stating that wine – and any alcohol – can lead to cancer. This declaration is based on findings from the National Cancer Institute (INCA) in France. The MoH has, therefore, recommended that the French people stop drinking their beloved wine. How can this be? For years, medical reserarch has touted the health benefits of wine. It has been shown to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. The MoH and INCA want citizens to forget about all previous health benefits linked to wine consumption and focus on the fact that alcohol facilitates cancers of the mouth, larynx, oesophagus, colon/rectum, and breast. And, as the MoH kindly points out, even one glass of wine a day can increase your chance of developing cancer by 168%. 

“Small daily doses of alcohol are the most harmful. There is no amount, however small, which is good for you,” said Dominique Maraninchi, INCA’s president.

France advises citizens to stop drinking wine.

Good Intentions, Unanswered Questions

I know that the French government only wants what is best for its citizens. And, for a US citizen, I am thankful to the French government for taking a stand on this issue and for making me, and the rest of the world, more aware of the negative effects of wine as well as its benefits. However, the new alcohol guidelines leave many unanswered questions.

Now that the French know the negative health effects of wine, what will the government do to help citizens stop drinking alcohol? And, more importantly, will the French recognize these new findings and take the initiative to stop indulging in their favorite drink? Possibly, but this feat will be a difficult undertaking. Take cigarettes for example. In the early to mid 1900′s, smoking was nearly a national pasttime in the US and for many countries around the world. Even when the US Surgeon General reported that cigarettes were linked to cancer, people continued to smoke and many are still smoking today. But, unlike wine, there have been no health benefits linked to smoking cigarettes. 

Grape Expectations

Ask a Frenchman to stop drinking wine? You may as well tell a fish to stop swimming. Wine has been a natural part of the French culture for centuries. Expecting the French to stop drinking wine immediately or even in the near future is unrealistic, especially when the French consume an average of 13 gallons of wine in a year – that’s nearly a 1 gallon jug of milk per month. For the French, and many other countries, wine has been thought of as part of everyday life, and even medicinal. Getting the French to stop doing something they know and love will no doubt be a challenge, for the idea alone challenges a vintage belief. Besides, wine is seen by many as the national drink of France. What would replace this national standard –  Perrier?

What about the rest of us?

The new guidelines also leave the government in a Catch-22 situation. Now that the French government recommends against wine consumption, will they still permit the export of wine? France is a major exporter of wine, with 34% of the world wine market coming from French exports. If they do continue to export wine, it is like saying “we don’t want our citizens to drink wine, but we can sell wine to other countries who don’t know any better.”

Yet, if they do stop exporting wine, what will happen to the 2,134 acres of land used for vineyards across France? The economy in France and the rest of Europe is bad enough, take away a huge money-maker like wine, and the country may be financially worse off than before.

Now, the most important question, if the French can’t smoke (Amen to that!) and can’t drink wine, what do these poor French souls have left for indulgences? Well there’s always cheese, pate, and extramarital affairs. Vive La France!

Ahh, Mardi Gras…a time of extravagance, gluttony, and pancakes? Yes, pancakes. You may think that pancakes seem a little bland for Mardi Gras, compared with the Polish Paczki or New Orleans King Cake, but for our British neighbors across the pond, pancakes and even pancake races are major elements of Mardi Gras.

Celebrate Mardi Gras like the British by trading your Paczki for a pancake.

The British don’t actually celebrate Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday by name. For them, the day is called Shrove Tuesday. The word Shrove is actually a variation on the Old English term shriving or absolving. Shrove Tuesday is similar to Mardi Gras and Carnaval in that the day marks the symbolic, yet temporary, end of indulgence and the beginning of the Christian time of Lent, a time of penitence and absolution. In other words, these celebrations represent the last day to “feast” before 40 days of abstinence and fasting. Unlike Mardi Gras and Carnaval, Shrove Tuesday has never really taken on the “party” image. Shrove is more of a time to focus on or even prepare you for the spiritual aspect of Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday. Still, the Brits have their own, very unique traditions for celebrating this religious season.

My Pancake is Faster than Yours

The British may not consume cases of jelly-filled donuts or hide plastic babies inside sugary danishes, but they are not without their indulgences in the cake area. Shrove Tuesday has traditionally been associated with making and eating pancakes, of all sizes and varieties. Pancakes have been synonymous with Shrove for hundreds of years.

Runners race with their pancakes on Shrove Tuesday.

They are believed to represent one of the richest foods to eat before Lent, because they are made with many ingredients that were once avoided during Lent, like eggs and milk products. Pancakes have become so important to the Shrove celebration that many cities and even Parliament hold Pancake Races. These highly competitive contests involve running as fast as you can while holding a frying pan with a pancake in it. The catch is that you have to flip the pancake a predetermined amount of times while you’re running – a skill many in Britain have seriously perfected. Many believe that the tradition of Pancake Races began in the early 1400′s when a woman was making breakfast on Shrove Tuesday. She is said to have lost track of time and began running to the church for services, frying pan in hand, complete with a pancake still in it. Although the origin of the pancake race is still unclear, one thing is quite certain –  Shrove Tuesday and its pancakes are an important part of British culture and tradition.

Have Your Pancake and Eat it Too

For Americans, celebrating Mardi Gras like the British can be a fun and more refined alternative to donuts, colored plastic beads, and raucous street parties. So, if you’re not up for a huge Mardi Gras party or can’t make it to Spain for Carnaval, celebrate Shrove Tuesday by making a batch or two of pancakes. And, although the idea of pancakes is traditional in and outside of Britain, your pancakes needn’t follow the traditional recipe. Check out some of the more unusual pancake recipes online, like chocolate pancakes with chestnut cream or hot whiskey pancakes with raspberries, they are sure to tempt even self-proclaimed pancake connoisseurs. And remember, whether savory or sweet, fluffy or thin, a pancake is more than a pancake when eaten on Shrove Tuesday.

Confessions of a Shopaholic May Reflect British Women Spending Habits

If you’ve ever read the book, Confessions of a Shopaholic, by Sophie Kinsella, you will know that it doesn’t quite follow the recently released movie by the same title, mostly because the main character Rebecca or Becky, is not from New York, but rather London. But the book and the movie share one big similarity, the main character is indeed a shopaholic by the best (or worst) definition. Ironically, the leading lady in Confessions, who can’t pass up a full price designer handbag, let alone a sale, may not actually be too far off from real British women and their overspending practices.

Shopaholic book may reflect real British women's spending habits.

A 2007 survey from Uswitch revealed that at least 3% of the British population are shopaholics, with more than 765,000 of these being British women. Shopaholics are defined as people who shop at least once a week and spend an average of £182 per month (about $260), far above the national average of £86 ($122) a month. Furthermore, these spendthrift women will go to any length to get their fix for fashion. More than 2% of British women admitted to sneaking fashion purchases on their significant other’s credit card, while 16% have admitted to lying about how much they spend on their purchases. These out-of-control spending behaviors have left British women with an average of £5,000 ($7,100) in unsecured debt.

Despite Economy, British Women Still Spending

What’s even more surprising, is that even with the poor economy, British women have reported that they will continue with their extravagant spending habits. In 2008, Elle UK surveyed 4,000 British women and found that more than 1/3 admitted their fashion shopping habits have not changed due to the economy. Furthermore, 70% of British women said they thought about buying new clothes “nearly every day”, while 1/4 said they spent between £25 and £100 ($35 and $142) a month on shoes alone. 

Are you a shopaholic? Take the test and find out.

God knows that you don’t have to be British to be considered a shopaholic. If you’re worried that your spending habits may be unmanageable, a simple test can tell whether you are just a typical shopper or if you are truly a shopping addict. The test, which was published in the December 2008 issue of the Journal of Consumer Research, includes six statements, for which you rank on a 7-point scale, with 1= strongly disagree and 7=strongly agree. Using this scale, decide how strongly you feel about the following statements: 

Now, add up your total score. If your score is 25 or higher, you would be considered a compulsive buyer, or a shopaholic.

If you are a shopaholic, you may want to curb your purchases until you get your shopping habits under control. Sounds simple, but like all addictions, a shopping addiction can be hard to break. There are many books and Web sites that can help shopaholics change their ways and many offer step-by-step guides on how to do this. For example, GetRichSlowly.org suggests the following: 

6 Steps to Curb Compulsive Shopping

1. Get rid of your credit cards. Although, you still need to pay them off!
2. Use cash to pay for everything. You may be less likely to spend if you actually see your dollars leaving your wallet.
3. Keep a diary of your purchases. Log everything you spend your money on. You may be surprised or even disgusted at how much you’re spending at Starbucks!
4. Trick yourself into spending less or not spending at all. Do this by making yourself wait 30 days to buy new clothes, gadgets, etc.
5. Avoid temptation by not going into your usual spending haunts. 
6. Ask for help from friends/family or even a professional.

If you’re still not sure how you rank on the shopaholic scale, read the Confessions book or see the movie. If you can relate to Rebecca, and feel a stinging guilt because you do, then you may want to reevaluate your spending, not to mention avoid the spring and summer sales at Macys.

Tapas or Topless?

Tapas have been around for centuries in Spain and for many years in the US – so it always amazes me when people don’t know what they are or have never heard of them. I remember when my mother, who lives out of state, first learned about tapas. I called her as I usually did on Saturday afternoon to see how she and my father were doing. During our light-hearted conversation, she asked where I was headed that evening. I replied that I was going to a new tapas bar with some friends. At this point, there was silence for what seemed eternity, then she asked again, “Where did you say you were going?”. “A tapas bar,” I replied. “But why would you want to go to a place like that?,” she answered. I finally realized that what she thought I said was “topless” bar, which explains her surprise. When I explained to her what tapas are and what the restaurant is, she seemed relieved and then continued on the conversation in an upbeat manner. In my world, this was not the only time “tapas” had been mistaken for “topless”. Nowadays, if I am taking an out-of-town guest for tapas and I know he/she really doesn’t know what they are, I might try to joke with the person by never explaining what tapas are until the very last minute. They are just as surprised and relieved as my mother was years ago on the phone to find out the true meaning of tapas.

Tapas: Small in size, huge in flavor.

What are tapas

Tapas is a style of eating, rather than a way of cooking, that involves eating bite-size snacks or small appetizers. Tapas can be served cold or hot and can be made with just about anything. Typical Spanish tapas are dishes that include cheese, egg, meat, vegetable, seafood, relishes, such as olives and spicy peppers, and rice. Don’t be fooled by their size – these bites may be small but are customarily packed with huge flavors, like paprika, curry, and garlic. 

Origin of Tapas

Tapas are believed to have originated in Spain centuries ago, but as to how they originated, that story will change depending on what region of Spain you are in. One of the most popular theories is that the first tapas were eaten when, due to an illness, the Spanish king Alfonso the 10th, had to take small bites of food with some wine between meals. However, after he recovered the king decreed that no wine was to be served in any of the inns in the land of Castile, unless accompanied by something to eat. Although tapas have evolved over the years in regard to ingredients and style, the tradition of eating small plates is ingrained in the Spanish culture.

Where to find tapas

Tapas are a staple all over Spain, but in the US, tapas or tapas-like restaurants can be found in just about any major city in the world. Also, there are some restaurants that may not be considered tapas bars, but offer a tapas-like menu. Nowadays, many tapas bars include full-size meals on the menu to accommodate bigger appetites or those people who failed kindergarten and never learned how to share.

I absolutely love tapas. In fact, whenever I go out of town for business or fun, I do a little research ahead of time to see if there is a trendy tapas bar that I can try. I’ve had tapas in Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Orlando, Philadelphia, Washington,DC, and, of course, in Spain.  If you’re looking for something different for a Friday night dinner, check out the local tapas bars in your area or your destination city.

How to order tapas

From my experience, tapas are meant to be eaten with a group, but they can also be fine as a dinner for two. As is customary, each person in the group will select one item off of the tapas menu and, when these items are brought to the table, everyone shares each others’ dish. At this point, the second “round” of tapas is ordered. This can go on and on for hours. You’d be surprised how filling tapas are, so don’t order too many at once, until you’re sure you’re hungry enough to eat more. Give yourself plenty of time for tapas. It’s not a quick meal and it is intended to be shared with friends, family, and/or colleagues. In Spain, the locals will actually go from tapas bar to tapas bar, sampling the house specialties, meeting up with old friends, and making new ones as they go. 

Classic tapas

Although every tapas bar will have a signature dish or several specialty tapas that distinguish it from a competitor, most tapas bars/restaurants carry at least a few of the classic Spanish tapas, including:

• Patatas bravas – Potatoes in a spicy red or cream sauce.
• Spanish tortilla –  Spanish style quiche or omelette.
• Croquettes – Lightly breaded, fried fritter made with ham, chicken, and/or cheese.
• Paella – Saffron-rice-based dish almost always made with vegetables, shellfish, and other fresh seafood. This dish is similar to Italian risotto in that it is so filling it could be a meal on it’s own.     
  

  Olives make simple, but flavorful tapas.

• Serreno ham – Famous salty Spanish ham. It can be eaten on it’s own or wrapped around dates, figs, or served on bread.
• Manchego cheese – The most widely used cheese in Spain – made from sheep’s milk. It can be eaten by the slice on a piece of bread with olives or served in a variety of dishes, from potatoes to soups.
• Pa amb tomaquet or pa amb oli - This is essentially sliced country style bread rubbed with oil and garlic, or oil, garlic, and a tomato half. 
• Chorizo sausage – A widely-used, very versatile spicy Spanish sausage made of cured pork. Can be eaten on its own, with vegetable accompaniments, or used in soups or sauces.
• Creme caramel or Catalan – A thick, custard-like dessert similar to the French creme brulee.
• Sangria – Although this is technically not a tapa, this fruit-based iced drink, made with red, white, or sparkling wine (cava), is widely popular in tapas restaurants in and outside of Spain.

Tapas at home

A good way to experience tapas, is to host a party where everyone brings a dish (so that you’re not making a bunch of time-consuming little appetizers). I know a couple who host a tapas party every year with two rules: 1) no one can bring the same dish twice and 2) you must bring the recipe to share. As you can imagine, after a few years of this, they have significantly increased their tapas recipe collection. 

These days, nearly any food that can be made or cut into bite-size pieces could be considered tapas. But, if you’re not sure where to start, here are 7 recipes to get your tapas party rolling:

Easy Tapas Recipes

Mon dieu! Valentine’s Day is nearly here and you haven’t planned a thing? Well, fear not. There is still time to plan a truly fabulous Valentine’s Day for you and your special someone. If you’re looking for something extraordinary for your significant other this Valentine’s Day, why not surprise him with a trip to one of the most romantic cities in the world – Paris! Of course, in an ideal world and economy, this idea may not actually sound so crazy or fiscally irresponsible. If jetting off to the City of Lights is not in the budget this year, try the next best thing…recreate a romantic French dinner in your dining room. In fact, why not make it a whole French-inspired evening to get both of you in a more Valentine’s Day mood. 

Here are 9 easy steps to have an Incredibly French Valentine’s Day 

1. French Notes - Start by sending your loved one a hand-written French-themed invitation on beautiful stationary or send him a Paris-themed e-card giving him the details of your romantic interlude.
2. French Tunes: Set the tone of the evening by selecting classic or modern French music to play during dinner and throughout the evening. For jazzier, bistro-style music, try Paris Combo or the Williams Sonoma Paris CD. For smooth instrumental, go for the soundtracks to Chocolat or Amelie.
3. French Mood - Establish a French mood by putting bunches of fresh lavender or flowers in the bathroom or other areas of the home. Although, be sure to keep strong scents, including flowers and scented candles, away from the dining area for they can overpower the taste of the food. Now, all you need to do is dim the lights or turn them off completely and rely on strategically placed candles throughout the evening.
4. French Table - A perfectly set table can greatly complement your French meal. If you have a large table, take out the leaves to make it as small as possible, making it a more quaint, bistro-type setting. If you can’t make the table smaller, give the allure of an intimate setting arranging the places at the very end of one side of the table. Use a clean table cloth, wine glasses, and cloth napkins. Set the table with the appropriate number of plates for the several courses you plan to serve. Finally, add several unscented candles to the table for a more romantic feel.
5. French Fare - Temp your love’s palate by preparing a meal worthy of a French chef. Can’t cook? Order from a nearby French restaurant. In typical French fashion, be sure to include several courses in your meal, although courses should be as light as possible. Here is just one example of a four-course French meal, but the menu possibilities are endless.
   • French bread/baguette – As customary in France, most meals begin with a French baguette, a long loaf of crusty bread, typically wrapped in paper. When serving, don’t bother with a knife for slicing, tear it off in small pieces – the tres chic French way.
   • French appetizer – Ironically, a French appetizer is actually called an entree. Keep this course light and simple by having 2 or 3 types of french cheeses, paired with sliced apples, grapes, and figs. 
   • French entree – Try the classic French dish, Filet of Beef au Poivre (peppered fillet), served with a side of fingerling potatoes, and haricots verts (French-style green beans).
   • French dessert – Prepare chocolate mousse, a French favorite, ahead of time, and chill in martini or other fancy glasses in the fridge. Garnish with shaved chocolate and a dollop of whipped cream.      
     

     French Wine and Cheese

6. French Wine – Although French wine is preferred, any wine will do as long as it’s of good quality and is paired with the meal you are serving. With a little planning, you’ll be able to find the perfect bottle of wine.
7. French Movie – After dinner, get cozy with your amour on the couch with another glass of wine and watch a movie that was filmed in France or Belgium. For a romantic comedy, try Amelie, French Kiss, or In Bruges. For drama, rent Chocolat, and for mystery/history, opt for the Da Vinci Code.
8. French Phrases – When the time is right, remind your love just how much he means to you by whispering a few of these romantic French phrases in his ear. 
9. French Present – Leave him with sweet memories of the perfect evening by giving your love a gift of fine French chocolates. Add a little spice to the romance by giving a dozen of the Aztec truffles (made with chili pepper and cinnamon) or opt for traditional truffles filled with dark chocolate or hazelnut. 

For a Valentine’s Day surprise, a trip to Paris or any romantic European city is hard to beat. But, with a little imagination, you can give your Valentine a taste of France, with a side of romance, without leaving home – a surprise treat that will have him saying “ooh la la” into the wee hours of the morning.

The Mediterranean Diet is one of the healthiest in the world. Research has shown this diet and overall lifestyle can help you lose weight, reduce incidence of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, and is now associated with a reduced risk in mental decline. So, if you’re looking for a healthier approach to eating, the Mediterranean Diet might be right for you.

Mediterranean Food Pyramid

But what exactly is the Mediterranean Diet? The Mediterranean Diet is not so much a diet in the sense of a strict eating regimen where certain foods are forbidden, but rather like an eating style. It incorporates all of the aspects of healthy eating but focuses on the wonderful flavors, foods, and cooking style found in countries that border the Mediterranean Sea, including Italy, Greece, Southern France, Spain, Portugal, and Turkey. Although each country in the Mediterranean region provides its own variation in diet, all share 8 common principles characteristic to the authentic Mediterranean Diet.

8 Principles of the Mediterranean Diet:

1. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, including beans and lentils
2. Enjoy generous amounts of monounsaturated fats, MUFA, found in olive oil and canola oil
3. Eat small portions of nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts – also high in MUFA
4. Drink red wine, in moderation – one to two glasses daily – and refresh yourself with at least 6 glasses of water per day
5. Choose lean proteins such as chicken, ham, and turkey and limit red meat to a few times a month
6. Eat fish on a weekly basis
7. Eat small amounts of dairy, including cheese and yogurt, daily
8. Engage in regular exercise, such as walking on a daily basis

Although I love traveling to Europe, I definitely don’t get there as often as I’d  like. And, with the poor economy, not to mention weak dollar, I don’t expect to return anytime soon. Although a Euro trip is not on my budget-conscious horizon, there is a way that I can experience a little of Europe close to home. I have traveled enough in the last decade to see many similarities between US/Canadian cities and destinations in Europe. Granted, Europe has more history than the US, but the charm of old world and even modern Europe can be found throughout the US and Canada. 

For US travelers who have always longed for a European vacation or for those Americans who miss our neighbors across the pond, these “sister cities” can offer you a taste of Europe right here in US and Canada without breaking your budget. 

Top 10 European Destinations and their US/Canadian counterparts.

1. 

   Big Ben - London, England

   Want London? Try New York or Chicago – Like London, New York and Chicago have a variety of architectural influences, world-renown museums, historic monuments, eclectic neighborhoods, as well as a river that runs through the cities. New York and Chicago are also robust cultural centers, with a mix of Italian, Greek, Asian, and Mexican influences, complete with the cuisine to match. 

2. Want Dublin? Try Boston, MA – Both cities center around major universities, Harvard/MIT in Boston, and Trinity College and University College in Dublin, not to mention authentic neighborhood pubs. And, similar to Dublin, Boston is home to beautiful churches, quaint shopping areas, and passionate sports enthusiasts. To learn more, about Boston’s Irish roots, just visit the Boston Irish Heritage Trail. 
3. Want Barcelona? Try San Diego, CA- For the Mediterranean/Spanish feel of Barcelona, San Diego is a sure bet. San Diego offers Spanish-style architecture, an ocean border complete with sand and palm trees, and a mix of modern and old world culture. Plus, the drive North on I-5 to Hwy 1 is very similar to the coastal drive from Barcelona to France, also known as the Costa Brava. Both drives lead you through picturesque seaside towns, each with a different personality. 
4. Want Germany? Try Frankenmuth, MI – Although cheesy and a tad kitcsh, Frankenmuth, MI, is one of the most authentic German/Bavarian cities in the US. Bavarian-themed resorts, restaurants, and shops are plentiful in this very popular Midwest tourist destination. Plus, Frankenmuth’s Oktoberfest, held every September, is a scaled back version of the real thing seen in Munich. The festival is so authentic, it is the only Oktoberfest outside of Germany that is officially sanctioned by Munich.
5. Want Paris? Try Montreal, Quebec – As one of the largest French-speaking cities in the world, Montreal could be considered a petite Paris. Montreal is known for its authentic French cuisine and wine that you can sample while dining at chic French bistros or street-side cafes. Montreal also boasts European-style shopping along cobblestone streets and an abundance of cultural activities. Montreal is also the home of Notre Dame…Notre-Dame Basilica, known for its Gothic Revival architecture, colorful interior and stained glasses windows. 
6. 

   Napa Valley In California

   Want Provence? Try Napa Valley – Nothing can ever top the perfection of Provence in France, but Napa Valley, in California is a solid second. Napa shares with Provence magnificent views of endless vineyards, colorful lavender fields, and temping olive groves. Napa also offers a Mediterranean climate, similar to that in Provence, perfect for nearly year-round, biking, picnics, and, of course, back-to-back wine tastings.

7. Want the Swiss Alps? Try Telluride, CO – Both destinations offer majestic views of snow-covered mountains and luscious valleys. Like many communities in Switzerland, Telluride is home to fabulous skiing. The city even has a gondola that connects to Mountain Village, another Colorado community with European-style buildings, homes, and shopping.
8. Want the Netherlands? Try Holland, MI - This quaint town in Western Michigan hosts the world-famous Tulip Festival each year in May, with millions of tulips planted in gardens, parks, and along country lanes. The city also boasts a unique European atmosphere, with Dutch style shopping, restaurants, plus bike-friendly tours along waterfront paths.
9. Want Madrid? Try San Juan, PR –  Although Puerto Rico is not technically a part of the US (it is a US territory) it is still just a short flight from most East Coast cities.  As the capital of Puerto Rico, San Juan delivers a top notch combination of European culture and Caribbean flair. San Juan has a southern Mediterranean climate (like most of the Caribbean) that easily complements the city’s cobblestone streets lined with al fresco cafes and restaurants. San Juan nightlife also has been compared to that of Spain’s, as locals and tourists party into the wee hours of the night at casinos, bars, and nightclubs. 
10. Want Milan? Try Beverly Hills, CA - Milan, Italy is often referred to as the fashion capital of the world. So if you’re looking for a US counterpart, look no further than Beverly Hills, CA. Beverly Hills rivals Milan in both fashion and fashionable people. Uber trendy boutiques of top designers can be found up and down Rodeo Drive and celebrities are quite often just a stone’s throw away, lunching at equally posh outdoor cafes. Like Milan, walking through Beverly Hills will not cost you cent, but shopping here could put you in debt.

Have a favorite US destination that reminds you of Europe? Let me hear about it!

Happy Travels!

A recent survey found that the average British woman has over 100 items of clothing in her wardrobe. But alas, our British cousins will actually wear less than 30% of these clothes on a regular basis. What a waste! Why not keep the 30% and ditch the rest? Well, apparently British women are nostalgic, for they also reported keeping their favorite item of clothing for an average of 12 years – hoping that older pieces would one day come back in fashion (sorry dear, those leg warmers will never be stylish again in your lifetime). 

This made me question, what’s in my top 30%? Like British women, I too have an oversized wardrobe, with well over 100 items of clothing, most of which have not seen the light of day in nearly half a decade. Pre-2009, I would justify my clothes habit by saying to myself, “I’m sure I will need that at some point in my life.” But, in keeping with my New Year’s Resolution of staying on a Wardrobe Diet, I have resolved to change my clothes habits.

I have recently completed the first step of the Wardrobe Diet: purging my closet of those items that do not fit, are worn out, or are out of style. All my clothes, including dresses, suits, and summer styles, were scrutinized. I admit this process was very liberating, albeit difficult. On more than one instance, I contemplated pardoning some of those clothes destined for Goodwill, but I remained strong. In doing so, I was able to eliminate 30-40% of my wardrobe, most of which I promptly boxed up and donated before I could change my mind.

5 Little Black Pants Every Woman Should Have

Also during this process, I was completely amazed at the number of clothing items I was not wearing – some with the tags still on them, some that were lost in the back of the closet, and duplicate items for several wardrobe pieces, including 9 pairs of blacks. I wondered for a moment, how did I collect so many pairs of blacks pants? I tried on every single pair to see which ones would pass the test. Only 5 pairs made the cut and so, they shall remain. Now, some people may ask, “Do you really need 5 pairs of black pants?” to which I would reply in my best Charlie and Lola voice, “Yes, I absolutely do need these five pairs of black pants.”

And I truly believe that every woman’s wardrobe should include 5 pairs of black pants, even if she’s on a Wardrobe Diet. And here is the reason why. One needs multiple black pants for multiple occasions (and maybe personalities). And, each pair of pants is a different style, serving a different purpose.  So really, when you look at it from that perspective, they are five very different pieces. 

So ladies, if you too have several pairs of black pants, here is how you can justify keeping them in your top 30%…

The 5 Little Black Pants Every Woman Should Have -

1. Three-season Capri - With the weather’s cooperation, these very versatile pants can be worn in spring, summer, and fall. In spite of their short stature, these pants give the image of style and sophistication. They are especially perfect for business casual Fridays, or can be paired with a lightweight sleeveless sweater and jeweled sandals for a summer evening on the town. 
2. Work-week trouser - These smart pants always look good (even on your “fat” days) and can convey several styles. For a casual style, it can be paired with a cashmere t-shirt, or for a more professional look, wear a fitted button-down or camisol covered by a brightly colored blazer. These are your “go to” pants that will no doubt be warn often. So, whether they are boot cut or wide leg, make sure the fabric is of good quality, such as gaberdine, light wool, or a rayon/spandex blend, to withstand repeated washing or dry cleaning. 
3. Fancy pants - They may shimmer, shine, or are velvety-soft, but they will always be fancy. These pants are great for a girls’ night out dancing, holiday parties, or any special occasion when you want a little more attention from the opposite sex. When searching for your fancy pants, keep in mind they should be long enough to wear with funky mules, strappy sandals, or boots. A word of caution – although fancy pants can be considered anything out of ordinary, leather pants are almost always a mistake, unless you’re a supermodel or biker chic. 
4. Yoga loungers  - Ahh….lycra at its best. These pants fit snug around the hips and thighs but are a little flaired toward the bottom. The right pair can show off your curves and disguise your imperfections in one fell swoop. They are ideal for walking the dog at the park, a serious day of shopping when you are constantly changing clothes, when you’re feeling a bit bloated, or when you actually are attending a yoga class. As with all pants, finding the right fit for your yoga loungers is key – it’s the difference between looking like a casual hipster waiting for her manicure or a frumpy couch potato with no life.
5. Suit pants - Your “I’m really the CEO of this company” pants look unbelieveably polished and modern when worn with the matching suit coat or equally stylish blazer. However, these pants frequently have unflattering waistlines and, for the most part, don’t look right unless you actually wear them with a suit coat. So, if you opt to leave the coat on the hanger, make sure what’s underneath – a sleeveless sweater or button down oxford – falls slightly at or over the hips. 

Now, there you have it – 5 perfect black pants for just about any occasion. Always reliable. Always stylish. Always in the top 30%. 

Are you on a Wardrobe Diet? What’s in your top 30%?

New Year's Resolution: Put your wardrobe on a diet

American and British women are more similar than you may think. Both spend loads of money on clothes and shoes, spend hours trying them on, and then agonize over how they look in their new purchases. It’s really no secret that most women in America and Britain will have issues with weight and body image at some point in their lives, and not just in the Macy’s or Top Shop dressing rooms with scary lighting. At this time of year, when we have a clean slate ahead of us, women seem to stress about their weight and body image the most. Research shows that in the US and Britain, most New Year’s resolutions relate to either taking better care of your health, specifically making goals to “go on a diet” or to “get in shape”, and/or getting your finances in order. Yet, in spite of our best intentions, most Americans and British will have given up on their resolutions by Groundhog’s Day. For British women, the decision to quit comes much sooner with most British women forfeiting their diet resolutions after just 6 days.

It is for these reasons, and many others, why I usually do not make diet-related New Year’s Resolutions. But this year, I wanted to try something different – to make a diet resolution that was more fun, more realistic, and more budget-conscious. Instead of putting myself on a traditional diet, where I would scrutinize what food I buy and what food I eat, I have resolved to put my wardrobe on a diet – watching what clothes I buy and what clothes I wear – with the intention of cutting the fabric clutter in my closet and adding more style than hangers.

This week, we celebrated Groundhog’s Day. To me, this is the perfect time to start my New Year’s Resolution. As of today, I am already past the point of resolution failure. When you look at it that way, I’ve already made it farther than most.

If you’re like me and are ready to make an easy and fun New Year’s Resolution – try the Wardrobe Diet. You may end up keeping this resolution past Memorial Day.

The Wardrobe Diet: 5 Steps to Getting the Wardrobe You Desire

1. 

   There's no need to count calories on this diet.

   Purge your closet  - Like the excess pounds that you do not want, get rid of your excess clothing baggage. Assess your current wardrobe by identifying clothes that don’t fit and put them in a pile to donate. Even if you intended on losing 10 pounds in order to fit into the jeans you wore 5 years ago, now is the time to stop dreaming and start purging. Also donate those pieces that are worn out or out of style. This should leave you with a decent “base wardrobe” containing all items that still look great and look great on you.

2. Follow the 1:1 ratio - This is the buy one, donate one method, where you a) only buy clothes as a replacement for existing clothes in your wardrobe or b) only buy clothes you do not already have. For instance, if you do already have a black turtle neck, you can buy a new one but must donate the old one. This wardrobe diet tip can help you avoid SSS – sale stockpiling syndrome. Don’t pretend like you don’t know what I’m talking about. Just because henley shirts are on sale does not justify buying 5 more of the same shirt you already have, even if they are in different colors.
3. Give your figure a compliment – Don’t buy clothes that don’t fit your figure or don’t fit properly. Why spend your money on something that looks better on the hanger than it does on you? Buy clothes that complement your figure, including those that flaunt your assets and downplay your flaws. If you must buy clothes that don’t fit exactly how you’d like, take them to a tailor or trusted dry cleaner to make alterations. 
4. Let your style show - If you have your own unique style or aspire to have one, be on lookout for pieces that fit that style. Likewise, if there is a certain image you want to portray, be it professional, casual, or sexy, let your wardrobe fit your image. Granted, every piece in your wardrobe does not have to reflect one style. But, before you shop for or buy a specific item, ask yourself how this new piece fits your style. If you’re hoping for a more French chic style, but the piece screams 1980s housewife, you may just want to keep on looking – even if it is 75% off. 
5. Invest in the best (that you can afford) – In this economy, it’s difficult to justify spending money on more clothes when most of us have an adequate wardrobe. But, when the time comes where you do find yourself with extra fashion cash, remember that the most flattering clothes are not necessarily ones with a brand name, ie. more expensive. Simply buy the best quality clothes that you can afford on your budget, keeping in mind that they should make you look and feel great. A word to the wise, a $20 pair of nondesigner cords that are perfectly tailored to your shape are worth much more than a $75 designer pair that are two sizes too small.

If you’re like me and want to make a different New Year’s Resolution, try the Wardrobe Diet. It’s much easier than counting calories and carbs and it gives you something else to concentrate on other than food. So, whether you’re British or American, the Wardrobe Diet can help you curb your apparel appetite and may even give you a sleeker, sexier wardrobe in the process.