Project Runway winner Gretchen Jones rocks and whiten those pearly whites

Honest.  Authentic.  Awesome.

I went to an event at Portland Sewing where Project Runway winner Gretchen Jones spoke about her experiences in the fashion industry.  And it didn't start when she was competing on Season 8 of the reality TV show Project Runway.  Her experience in fashion started when she was designing and sewing her own dresses as a child, a young child.  I can't remember the exact age, but let's just say she was sewing entire outfits when the rest of us were still finger painting.  Gretchen grew up in a rural community where it was normal for people to create.  Her grandmother was a seamstress and her dad was a carpenter.  Creating was just a part of life.  And it was the beginning the path that would lead her to reality TV, NYC and even Portland.

It was fascinating to hear Gretchen talk candidly about her experiences in the fashion industry.  WOW.  I really had no idea how much work and financial backing it takes to be a fashion designer.  $10 million dollars?  It's just a drop in the hat if you want to design a collection.  I really do have a new appreciation for the job and what it takes.  And the amount of work Gretchen put into her fashion career.  Gretchen's mom said to her daughter, "It only took you 10 years to become an overnight success."  I'm interested in handbag and jewelry design and after hearing about making samples in all the different sizes and technical patterns... well, let's just say clothing design is intense!  You really need to want to do it.  As Gretchen said, "It's a labor of love."

Gretchen is back in the Rose City and starting a new job as the lead designer for a new contemporary line for Pendelton.  It sounds amazing and I'm sure we'll be seeing her fabulous designs on a rack near us soon.

And on a completely different topic, I want to be honest with you!  White teeth are important.  I can't tell you how many gorgeous folks, let their look be ruined with yellow teeth.  It's not attractive.  And a little teeth whitener can make a big difference.  Also, smokers!  You should quit smoking.  However, even if you refuse to quit, at least whiten those teeth.  (end rant)

 http://www.colgateopticwhite.com

Thanks to influenster for my latest product to test: Colgate Optic White.  It's a toothbrush and built-in whitening pen all in one.  Basically, you just brush your teeth as normal.  Then you apply the whitening gel and do not rinse.  Colgate recommends applying the whitening gel twice a day, which is pretty simple because you are already brushing your teeth twice a day anyway.

As I stated above, I believe some pearly whites can take you from drab to fab.  And if this product makes that easier for you, maybe you should try it!  I've used lots of different whitening products and they all have their advantages and disadvantages.  The great thing about this product?  It's super easy to use and you don't have to put anything extra in your mouth (like a sticker over your teeth or hold a mouth piece).

 Smiles with Sarah

Fashion & teeth whitening?  Just another day of blogging.

Melissa