The Mason Pearson: Best Hairbrush in the Universe?

I’m thinking so, yes. Putting all technical matters aside, it just feels good in my hair. It’s the kind of brush that breezily runs from the tip-top of your head to the ends of your hair, gently detangling every knot it touches on the way down. It’s magical. Truly. And all the magical-ness had me interested in learning a bit more and hair-brushing, so I checked out the advice from the Mason Pearson press guy. (Who’s lovely to email with.) The MP brush is apparently one of a kind for two reasons: one, the “pneumatic cushion,” which means the surface that the bristles sit on is full of air, which allows the brush to form to your head while brushing. Two, there’s “spired tufting.” I have no idea what that means, so let’s ignore it. What I do know is that MP brushes are made from boar and nylon bristles. (They assure no animals are hurt during the process.) A good brush should stimulate circulation, exfoliate the scalp, and distribute natural oils throughout the hair shaft, which is exactly what the Mason Pearson brushes, which have been around since the middle of the nineteenth century, aim to do. And the brushes come in a bunch of different shapes and sizes to cater to different hair types and styles. I love thinking my brush was made just for me. Beware, though. You’ll pay for this bad boy. It runs about $150. But, think of it as an investment. Don’t trust me? Avalon hairstylist Jason Hull–married to one of of our own–says it’s one of three tools every hair stylist should have. (Although, he says he doesn’t think everyone needs one at home. I obviously disagree.) Check out more reviews of Mason Pearson after the jump. (Plus, InStyle just named it a Best Beauty Buy.) Get yours at Beauty.com.
*Update: Mason Pearson brushes are available here at Neiman Marcus. (more…)

Meet Katrina Szish

Veteran style expert and pop culture journalist Katrina Szish is coming to town for an event at Martin + Osa. The media-savvy star has been a host, reporter, anchor, panelist, and expert for various media outlets such as CNN, Vogue, and television shows such as “Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style” (the latest being the National Correspondent for InStyle Magazine, which she recently gave up to go out on her own). The event (co-hosted by Pink Memo founder Maxine Trowbridge) will be held at Martin + Osa’s boutique at NorthPark from 6-8. Guests will have a chance to get style tips from Szish as well as a 20% discount during the event. Better yet, the first 25 guests will receive a $25 gift card. Use it to stock up on spring must-haves, like this cute painted tee for just $34.50, a pair of white cargo‘s for $69.50, and these snakeskin flip-flops for 54.50.

I interviewed Szish last time she came through town and will be doing so again tonight. Check back here tomorrow for what she has to say about Dallas, summer trends, and more. If you have any questions you’d like me to ask, let me know.

Angie Harmon: Political Strategist

Some people like to talk politics at the Old Monk. Others like to duke it out in front of the television after The O’Reilly Factor. (That can’t be just me and my dad, right?) But let’s be honest: the best place to talk about what’s happening in the world today is at a Los Angeles launch of a new eyelash-growing formula, Latisse. It’s practically a political summit. Or at least it’s the perfect place for former Dallas resident/former Law and Order woman (I like the latter better) Angie Harmon to talk about her disapproval of Obama, respect for Palin, and so forth. Listen, people I don’t care what Ms. Harmon’s politics are—and to be fair, Debra Messing and Mandy Moore gave their hot sports opinions at this party, too (they’re just lucky they’re not from here)–I just think it’s a hilarious setting for anything other than, “Oh crap. I’ve got glue in my eye.” or “Do I look too Cabaret?”

Running in Heels – Episode 5: The Sh–’s About To Hit The Fan

Am I justified in feeling bad for Samantha? Unless there is something the producers aren’t showing us (which is entirely possible) I don’t think she deserves to be treated so badly by Talia. But, I also want to smack her on the head for bitching to Ashley about Talia since the two of them seem to be BFF’s now. Does she not realize that anything she tells Ashley will get right back to Talia? I don’t blame Sam for having some bad things to say, and for being frustrated, but don’t lower yourself to Talia’s level. Just keep it to yourself. First though, maybe I should back up and tell you about the show. That would probably help. (more…)

Earth Day at Exhale Spa: Mini Facials and Hand Massages

What better way to celebrate Earth Day 2009 than with a mini facial and hand massage? (Putting aside planting trees, recycling, conserving water, etc.) Exhale Spa is offering these mini services, which will feature its exclusive GRN line–we wrote about the line in the spring issue of D Beauty. Get your minis from 9 am to 2 pm on Wednesday, April 22. Exhale Spa Dallas. 5300 E. Mockingbird Ln. 214-370-5800 or www.exhalespa.com/locations/dallas.

Chicks for Chickies!

Now that it’s getting warmer here the thought of wearing more than one shirt in 100 degree heat makes me light-headed. Today I needed something to wear under my dress so my outfit is “work appropriate” but I didn’t want the bulk of a second shirt. Then I remembered Chickies – a product I blogged about a long time ago. Read it here. I have tried a few items of this sort and found this one to be the best. It’s easy to put on, is made well and comes in several colors. I thought it was worth repeating in case any of you missed it the first time. The price isn’t bad at $33 (total to Dallas with tax and shipping is $40). It is totally worth it and you will use it all the time. If anyone else gets one let me know if you love it as much as I do!

Little Winnie Cooper Is All Grown Up

The Wonder Years‘ Danica McKellar is now an old married lady. Kevin Arnold’s former TV squeeze tied the knot last month in a gown by Alfred Angelo. If you like Miss Winnie’s dress, take a closer look here. It’s Style 1151, and it’s quite pretty, don’t you think?