New from Caldrea Essentials: Hibiscus-Yuzu

About a month ago I blogged that Caldrea Essentials (at Target) had put their holiday scents on sale. And now the brand seems to be ushering in some new varieties. One I noticed on shelf the other day was the coral-colored Hibiscus-Yuzu. I smelled the candle (shown here) in the store, and it's a decidedly fruity-floral scent, combining Hibiscus flower with the Asian citrus fruit Yuzu (which is a symbol of the Winter Solstice). I do like this aroma better than the two holiday offerings, but it's still a bit strong for my tastes.

And if you're a Caldrea fan, here's a little tip: the retail line (not the budget line at Target) is having a clearance sale on their web site. For a limited time, you can save 60% on their holiday and discontinuted fragrances. Which means items like their Sweet Pea Surface Cleanser (regularly $10) is now just $3.60. But hurry, because this sale ends on Feb. 9th (Wednesday).

Lighten up the Winter Blues

Want to start your day off with a positive, natural experience instead of a jarring alarm? Then try the new Philips Wake-up Light HF3470 – an alarm clock that wakes you up with light. An official light therapy product of the National Sleep Foundation, the Wake-up Light’s replaceable halogen bulb gradually increases in intensity 30 minutes before your wake-up time, simulating a natural sunrise and giving you an easy and energetic wake-up. Meaning you'll reduce the time you need to get out of bed, plus feel more well-rested.

The Philips Wake-up Light also offers the option to be woken up by two nature sounds or FM radio, and twenty brightness settings allows you to use the Wake-up Light as a bedside lamp as well. You can find the Philips Wake-up Light at Target.com and select Target stores for $99.99

Sneak Peek: Target's Spring Trend Accessories

Target has posted their Spring 2011 Trend Accessories Lookbook here on their web site, and at first glance it looks like gladiator sandals and animal prints (like those shown here) will continue to be key trends. Other hot looks include florals and classic neutrals, and embellishments like gems, chains, and metallic studs. Prices range from $4.99 to $49.99, making them easy on the wallet as well.

Sneak Peek: Merona's Spring Collection

Yesterday The Budget Babe posted her take on the new Spring collection from Merona (at Target). Pictured here is my favorite look of the bunch, which I think looks very "Michael Kors". The Merona collection seems to have a little something for everyone, from lady-like sheath dresses and tailored nautical separates to preppy madras shorts and breezy peasant blouses. Overall I'm liking what I see - and do appreciate the effort from Merona - although I'm still missing Isaac Mizrahi's influence.

You can view the entire Merona Lookbook for Spring 2011 here on Target.com.

Product Review: Giada De Laurentis Bakeware Set

Last weekend on a whim, I bought this 6-piece bakeware set from Giada De Laurentis for Target. I spied it on clearance for $35 (down from $49.99). And as luck would have it, I actually had in my purse one of those random coupons you get at the Target checkout stand for $10-off any Giada cookware or bakeware set....so at just $25 total, I knew I had to try this set out.

All the rave reviews on Target.com are spot-on: not only does this set look sharp, but it works great, too. I've never had ceramic bakeware that cleaned up so easily! Last night I made lasagne in the loaf pan, and it was a breeze to clean (unlike my traditional "non-stick" pan). It also seemed to cook more evenly than my regular steel loaf pan.

Although the web site states that these dishes are "hand-wash only", the box says they are both dishwasher and microwave-safe. In addition to the loaf pan, I know I'll get a lot of use out of the oblong pan and pie dish. I already have a set of ramekins, but it's always great to have a couple more. The large mug is a bit of a puzzle; not sure what I'd bake in it, but I can always use it for soup or tea.

Wednesday's Rave: this Converse One Star dress

I have a love/hate relationship with shirt-dresses. I love the idea of them - the ease, simplicity, and casualness - but I don't always like how they look on me. Sometimes the fabric is too stiff, which adds unneccesary bulk. And sometimes styles that button all the way down the front cause unwanted gaps.

Which is why I was delighted to find this Kaitlyn-Erin dress by Converse One Star at Target. The fit is so flattering, from the elastic waist to the gathered-ties at each elbow. And the buttons stop at the waist, leaving the the skirt to fall in an appealing a-line that stops right above the knee.

Unfortunately, the Federal Blue one (shown here) was already sold out online, so I opted for the Dark Olive one instead. I still love it, but am hoping to also find the blue one in my size in stores.

Now all I need is for warmer weather to arrive so I can wear this fun little frock. And according to Punxsutawney Phil (who didn't see his shadow this Groundhog Day) we'll be having an early Spring, so hopefully I won't have to wait too long.

Ricky Martin's "Musica Alma Sexo" now available at Target

Ricky Martin's special album version of Música + Alma + Sexo is available at Target stores nationwide and Target.com beginning today. “I am incredibly excited about the upcoming release of my new album, and with the Target exclusive version of Música + Alma + Sexo, I can offer even more of my new music to fans,” said Martin. “I am happy to partner with Target – a company that not only embraces a wide variety of music and cultures, but also has a long history of giving back to communities.”

With over 65 million records sold worldwide, Música + Alma + Sexo is Martin’s first new studio album in six years. The Target deluxe version of Martin’s new bilingual album will feature seven exclusive tracks, including two dance mixes, three unreleased songs and solo versions of Martin’s new single “Lo Mejor De Mi Vida Eres Tú” / “The Best Thing About Me Is You.” I heard Ricky perform this song on The Today Show this morning, and was impressed with its catchy, reggae-inspired vibe. The album also features collaborations with famed Puerto Rican duo Wisin y Yandel and Brazilian singer Claudia Leitte.