Condolences to HSN’s Carol Brodie, JTV’s Kristen

Unfortunately, our family has experienced several deaths around the holidays, so our heart goes out to anyone who has to endure the same.

Our dad died in early January six years ago, after an illness where we watched him suffer through Christmas and New Year’s. Our brother died five days before Christmas a few years later.

So we extend our condolences and sympathy to HSN jewelry vendor Carol Brodie, who lost her dad this New Year’s. Carol wrote a wonderful eulogy for her father on Facebook. He was a wonderful man.

Grieving and loss comes to all of us, for not only the people that graced our lives but the pets.

We guess some folks will think us silly and stupid to talk about the death of a father and a cat in the same breath, but we will. Last week JTV host Kristen Keech became tearful and lost her composure when she discussed the loss of her beloved red cat earlier last year.

For those of us like Kristen, who have not had children, the bond with a pet is especially strong. We’ve been living with my late mom’s hairless cats since she passed away last June.

They are our companions every day. They are family.

The Sunday New York Times today did a small profile of a Buddhist monk in NYC who lost his husband last year and finds great comfort with their pet cat, a furry black-and-white fellow who wakes him up every morning and sleeps with him every night.

We went to the cemetery last week to the grave of our mom and dad. We miss and still mourn them.

We pray for those who have experienced their own losses, Carol and Kristen.

HSN Jewelry Maven Carol Brodie Sues Over Toxic Diet Noodles

Gorgeous HSN jewelry vendor Carol Brodie, who was just on the home shopping network tonight, has filed a lawsuit over diet noodles that sent her to the hospital.

We were looking through our Facebook feed today when we saw a post from WNBC-TV here in New York, and it reminded us of the posts Brodie had done about her horrible experience eating “Better Than Pasta.” It is made of konjac flour.

As it turned out, the TV segment was on Brodie’s lawsuit and she was interviewed on-camera, blonde and slim as ever. She is not only suing the manufacturer of the product but Amazon for selling it.

Here is the promo for the segment:

A woman who purchased Better Than Pasta noodles said the food congealed in her stomach and caused her great pain — and she’s not the only one to complain of the possible side effects by the noodles that don’t dissolve in the stomach.

https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/potential-dangers-from-eating-diet-noodles/2302267/

Brodie and others are calling for the FDA to ban products made from konjac flour.

We sure don’t think we’ll be trying them soon, even though we need to lose a ton of weight.

Healing for HSN Jewelry Maven Carol Brodie

Please send prayers, light and healing to HSN jewelry queen Carol Brodie. When it rains it pours, as the cliche goes.

First Carol was hospitalized, and nearly died, after eating “Better Than Pasta Spaghetti,” which contained a potentially lethal substance called konjac jelly or konnyaku. It’s been banned in Europe.

Here’s a good tip: Don’t eat it!

Then Carol’s beloved dog Buckwheat passed away this week. After losing a sphynx cat two years ago, we send our deepest condolences to Carol.

No question that losing a pet is like losing a human family member, and is worse in some ways. Pets offer unconditional love. We are in no way ambivalent about our feelings for them. It is devastating when they cross the rainbow bridge.

So get well Carol, and so sorry for your loss.

HSN Debuts Jewelry Inspired By ‘Crimson Peak’ Film

HSN kicked off another one of its movie extravaganza co-promotions on Tuesday, with this one a partnership for the new gothic romance “Crimson Peak.”

This time the home shopping network has hooked up with Legendary and Universal Pictures to offer jewelry inspired by the new flock from HSN’s stable of vendors.

There will also be presentations of “Crimson Peak” baubles today, Wednesday. The film is directed by Guillermo del Toro and the cast includes “Sons of Anarchy” hunk Charlie Hunnam, Tom Hiddleston and Jessica Chastain.

“Storytelling is the foundation of all that we do at HSN and we are excited to share the story of Crimson Peak with our millions of customers through engaging product experiences,” our buddy, HSN President Bill Brand, said in a canned statement.

“Our designers have created an assortment of jewelry that is absolutely stunning. These beautiful, dramatic pieces reflect each designer’s individual style while capturing the essence of the film.”

Heidi Daus, Carol Brodie, Roberto Faraone, Akkad and Amedeo Scognamiglio are doing the pieces for HSN.

Here is info from HSN’s press release:

Exquisite pearls, black onyx, fine gemstones, diamonds and beautifully-crafted cameos are just a part of the expansive movie-based collection that can be found exclusively at HSN.

With pieces ranging in price from $49.95 for a stunning Roberto by RFM Flower Pin to $1,900 for elegant White Diamond and Ruby Tassel Drop Earrings from Rarities: Fine Jewelry with Carol Brodie, there is something for every woman to enjoy.

HSN viewers will get a glimpse of the movie during the network’s two-day primetime event.

HSN Vendor Carol Brodie’s ‘Fifty Shades or Grey’ Cuff Collection

Want a “Fifty Shades of Grey” necklace and bracelet? So do we. And HSN fine jewelry diva Carol Brodie has them.

Brodie, who does the Rarities line for HSN, sent out an email earlier this week. It said “Cuff me in diamonds” and “Tune in to see my 50 Shades of Rarities collection on HSN.”

Carol Brodie and Callie

First, there were 10K gold-and-diamond versions of a bracelet and necklace whose pave closures that resemble a tiny set of handcuffs. The price on those versions were so high, we let out a long sigh. The necklace alone was $2,700!

But Carol also did more affordable versions of the 17-inch necklace and 7 1/2-inch bracelet. They are both in sterling silver, but one is encrusted with white zircon and the other with black spinel. The necklace in sterling is $330, the bracelet about $300.

http://www.hsn.com/products/rarities-101ct-gemstone-17-necklace/7215526

Truth be told, we were not big fans of “Fifty Shades of Grey.” It has been sitting on our nightstand for months. We got through about a third of it, and were bored silly. It read more to us like a male fantasy.

If you are a female and what to read something hot, look at the novels of Anais Nin. Now those will knock your socks off!

As for the hubbub about the casting of the movie, our sister and we thought that Christian Bale would be great, but he is old for the role.

We have long been fans of Charlie Hunnam of “Sons of Anarchy,” and he may have the right stuff to play Christian Grey. Don’t sell him short.

HSN Diamond Girl Carol Brodie Rocks Accessory, Home Decor Collection

Our girlfriend Carol Brodie is branching out on HSN.

Blonde beauty Brodie, who does one of HSN’s top-selling brands — Rarities: Fine Jewelry — is launching a collection of home decor and fashion accessories this Friday on the home shopping network.

Here’s the dope from the press release Tuesday:

The Carol Brodie Collection includes a home decor assortment inspired by her favorite jewels. Collaborating with high-end home fragrance company D. L. & Co., the line features candles and diffusers adorned with evil eye and peacock feather jeweled pendants with an intriguing scents of Amethyst Dahlia, Sapphire Spice, Ruby Jasmine or Emerald Rose.

Carol Brodie

The assortment also features decorative throw pillows, jewel encrusted picture frames and plush throws — from $29.95 to $99.95.

The Carol Brodie Collection also features on-trend yet practical accessories ranging from $29 to $448, including leather handbags with coordinated wallets and wristlets, fashionable sunglasses, nesting cosmetic cases and jeweled key chains that make a statement — everything a woman needs to organize her life and look fabulous doing it.

“Every accessory in a woman’s life should create a moment, a memory and have a story to tell,” Brodie said in a statement. “My collection includes pieces that range from affordable to aspirational, all inspired by the designs featured in my fine jewelry line. The HSN customer appreciates the unique designs and craftsmanship of Rarities Fine Jewelry… my new line will build upon the top-selling styles that resonate with my customer.”

Here are some of Brodie’s claims to fame:

Brodie was the mastermind behind some of the most memorable red carpet styles, including the custom-designed cognac and orange diamond jewels, worn by Halle Berry as she captured the 2001 Best Actress Award for Monster’s Ball; and Gwyneth Paltrow’s winning look as she nabbed the 1999 Best Actress Award for her role in Shakespeare in Love.

Her work on the red carpet during her nine-year tenure at Harry Winston earned her the moniker, Queen of Diamonds, as well as numerous awards and accolades throughout the fashion and fine jewelry industries.

“Carol has impeccable taste and knows what our customer craves to enhance their own personal style,” Anne Martin-Vachon, HSN’s chief merchandising officer, said in a canned statement. “Rarities: Fine Jewelry with Carol Brodie has become one of HSN’s top-selling fine jewelry brands and we know that her new line of accessories will continue to expand her impressive following of loyal and devoted fans.”

Brodie debuts her new collection during the “Carol Brodie: Accessorize Your Life” premiere Friday at 10 p.m. and 11 p.m.

HSN Holding ‘Pin To Win’ Pinterest Contest Judged By Giuliana Rancic

HSN is holding a “Pin to Win: Dream Wardrobe” contest that will be judged by a celeb-studded panel: Giuliana Rancic, co-host of E! Network’s “Fashion Police”; June Ambrose, HSN’s style expert; and trend expert Louise Roe.

Pinterest users will search for, pin and share their favorite fall fashions, accessories and beauty products for fall as a part of HSN’s Fall Fashion series “The Ultimate Trunk Show” presented by Elle Magazine.

Giuliana Rancic is launching a clothing line on HSN

The contest started Monday and runs through Sept. 17, Pinners have to submit their dream wardrobe pinboard by picking 10 items – at least five items from HSN.com and the rest from anywhere on the Web – and tag boards with #HSN and #FallFashion. Pinboards will be judged on originality, continuity, thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

The grand prize winner will receive $1,000 in merchandise from HSN to help create their fall dream wardrobe. The second and third place winner will also receive HSN merchandise to help fill their closets.

HSN’s “Ultimate Trunk Show,” presented by Elle Magazine, highlights the season’s newest trends in fashion, footwear and accessories including the launches of G by Giuliana Rancic, Rancic’s apparel collection by Giuliana Rancic, and make-up artist Trish McEvoy.

HSN favorites returning with key pieces for fall are Badgley Mischka, Carlos Falchi, Carol Brodie, Iman, Louise Roe, Adrienne Landau, Robert Verdi, Serena Williams, Stefani Greenfield and Queen Latifah, as well as jewelry from designers R.J. Graziano and Iris Apfel; and beauty products from Deborah Lippmann, David Evangelista and Philip B.

Celebrity Stylist June Ambrose Joins Giuliana Rancic For HSN’s Fall Fashion Event

Celebrity stylist June Ambrose is the latest fashionista to join HSN’s lineup Sunday as kicks off its fall fashion series, “Ultimate Trunk Show,” the home shopping network said Thursday.

“June Ambrose has elevated the style of some of today’s biggest celebrities,” said Anne Martin-Vachon, HSN’s chief merchandising officer. “We are thrilled to have June join HSN and offer her unique perspective on style during our biggest fashion event of the season.”

We hope June Ambrose doesn’t wear this hat on HSN

HSN’s roster for its event includes Louise Roe, Giuliana Rancic and “how-to” videos from respected beauty experts Trish McEvoy, David Evangelista, Deborah Lippmann, Philip B. and Vincent Longo — all on HSN.com, HSN mobile and HSN’s social platforms on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest.

HSN’s Fall Fashion Series highlights the season’s newest trends in fashion, footwear and accessories including the launches of G by Giuliana Rancic, the first ever apparel collection by Rancic exclusively for HSN, and top industry make-up artist, Trish McEvoy.

There will be items from Badgley Mischka, Carlos Falchi, Carol Brodie, IMAN, Louise Roe, Adrienne Landau, Robert Verdi, Serena Williams, Stefani Greenfield and Queen Latifah as well as new on-trend jewelry from designers R.J. Graziano and Iris Apfel; and beauty products from some of the world’s best known artists including, Deborah Lippmann, David Evangelista and Philip B.

HSN is giving amateur stylists a place to curate their ultimate wardrobe for Fall with the ‘Pin to Win: Dream Wardrobe’ contest on the social pinboard, Pinterest. Running from Sept. 10 to 17, “pinners” will be asked to submit their pinboard by picking at least 10 items — a minimum of five items from HSN.com and five or more from anywhere on the web – and tag boards with #HSN and #FallFashionElle.

Pinboards will be judged by Rancic, Roe and Ambrose on their originality, continuity, thoughtfulness and attention to detail. The grand prize winner will receive $1,000 in merchandise from HSN to help them create their dream wardrobe for Fall.

HSN Jewelry Queen Carol Brodie Underwent Surgery For Skin Cancer

God bless HSN vendor and upscale jewelry expert Carol Brodie.

We just learned that Brodie, whose HSN Rarities line sold out of a white topaz necklace we loved yesterday, was diagnosed with skin cancer recently.

You would never had known that she recently under went surgery to have the cancerous tissue removed from her face. She
looked gorgeous, as usual, on-air.

Carol Brodie still lovely post surgery

Here is a link to Carol’s Blog on HSN.com about her cancer scare, and an excerpt from it.

http://blogs.hsn.com/putting-face_16124/?cm_sp=LNB-_-Blogs-_-CarolBrodi&cm_re=LNB-_-Blogs-_-CarolBrodi

My summer was not about fun in the sun – actually most of the trips that I have taken since June have been to Beth Israel Hospital in Manhattan. I found out on June 13th that I had a malignant melanoma on my right cheek. It was a tiny freckle that had been biopsied a week before. Well, that freckle turned out to be CANCER.

Many scans and tests later, it was determined that a one-inch area would need to be removed from the right side of my face. The tests ultimately proved that the cancer had not spread – that was great news.

Carol then described that when she woke up from surgery, her face was badly bruised and cut up. She has been wearing silicon strips to protect that area of her face.

“I will preach all day long to wear sunscreen and a hat and that everyone reading this needs to get a melanoma checkup if you have not had one in the past 12 months,” Carol blogged.

In her moving missive, Carol said that she had worried about how her surgery and cancer would affect her looks, and that this horrible experience made her realize that beauty comes from within.

All the best to you, Carol. You are beautiful inside and out.

And your rocks rock, too, girlfriend.

HSN Jewelry Maven Carol Brodie Returns With Diamond TS

One of the perkiest and most knowledgeable jewelry experts on HSN, Carol Brodie, has us dreaming already about what’s she’s cooked up for the home shopping channel next week.

Brodie let spill on Facebook that she will have HSN’s Today’s Special at next Wednesday, and that it will be a diamond piece.

Carol Brodie

“I will be on HSN — kicking off my brand new diamond Today’s Special on Wednesday at midnight — a classic and timeless style that will leave you breathless!!” Brodie posted on Facebook. “See you Wed and Thursday with a brand new exclusive collection of Rarities Fine Jewelry. Have a fabulous weekend… nothing says summer cool like fabulous jewelry and lots of sunscreen. xoxox”

Can’t wait to see it.