Did you know that you should NOT be cooking with olive oil? Me neither! Until my friend enlightened me this past weekend. It's terrifying actually. Apparently the best oil to use when cooking at high temperatures is coconut oil. Surprised? Me too. Although olive oil is a great option, it is not to be used for cooking. After all these years coconut oil was given such a bad rep, turns out it's the best way to go. I used it tonight for the first time. It's a little intimidating because it's a solid at room temperature but once you open the can you'll fall in love. It has a sweet coconut smell and a very light coconut taste. I cooked coconut curry vegetables so I'll let you know how it goes when I cook something less complimentary to the coconut.

Check out this article about why you should use coconut oil. It is a MUST read by Dr. Mercola! A very educated doctor.

Also of note in the article, do not use other vegetable oils like canola or plain ol' vegetable oil. These too have a very low heat index. Also they're super processed. Think of them like the other white bread.  

Everyone is downing green smoothies for energy and health these days, including Ryan Secrest. How else do you think he holds down his 1435235 different jobs.

What: Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier Sample Sale

Why: They will be offering a wide selection of dresses and gowns at up to 80% off retail, normally ranging from $3,200-$8,000. Get sample and stock sizes from internationally known wedding designers Angel Sanchez, Anne Barge, Monique Lhuillier, Peter Langner, Jenny Lee, Rivini, Jenny Packham, and more.

When: 2/1, call 212.319.6778 for appointment

Where: 110 East 55th Street, 8th Floor

Celebrity stylist, Edward Tricomi of Warren-Tricomi Salons provides us with all the inside tips on how to have hair just like our favorite stars. The following looks from the 17^th annual SAG Awards can easily become ours with the help of Tricomi. 

 January Jones

This look isn't my fave to be honest. Whenever I do an updo like this I always feel so un-sexy. But if it's your thang, to achieve this smart, lady-like look of January Jones (nominee for Mad Men),  blow out hair straight, using a bit of a round brush to create lift wave. Take a drop of hairspray and comb hair back, then comb the wave into play. Any extra hair can be pinned in tightly by twisting hair back and tucked in until all hair is up off of neck.

Diana Agron

To achieve this sultry look of Glee’s Dianna Agron, first blow dry hair all while adding some textured waves. Once hair is blown dry tease the top to add some extra height.  Lastly, comb hair back softly into a loose chignon secured with bobby pins.

 Natalie Portman

Portman’s classic look is in perfect harmony with her dress.  To easily achieve this look at home blow dry hair softly with a round brush.  Part hair to the desired side.  Spray and twist the smaller side rolling it toward the back of your neck.  The larger side should be twisted and sprayed into an “s” shape to follow your natural hairline.  Make sure to swoop the front pieces into a wave securing it with hairspray.  Pull hair into a rubberband and put into a ponytail.  Twist ponytail into a sleek bun and secure with a bobby pin. 

This movie was definitely worth seeing if you don't know this inspirational story. The acting is superb. Helena Bonham Carter and Colin Firth are fabulous. It's a little slow at times, definitely not on the edge of your seat, but overall definitely uplifting and worth seeing. There ya have it folks! Thumbs up from Smartypanties.

Check out other short, sweet and to the point movie reviews I've done.

This Digital Short on SNL this past weekend cracked me up. And unlike her performances on SNL, Nicki Minaj's cameo was fantastic.

Usually I'm not one to be taken for these celeb designer collabs with the cheaper stores, all the hype and anticipation usually ends in long lines with cheaply made knock-offs of the designer's original line. Even though I haven't seen Ms. Nicole Miller's line for JCP yet in person, I think it looks pretty good. Yes, some of the line looks cheesy but some reflects her polished neat lines. Let us know what you think in the comments. Have you seen it yet in stores? 

Here are some of our fave looks: