Katherine Chloé Cahoon

Last Saturday, when my alarm went off at 7 am, I immediately hit snooze. It was the weekend. But once I realized that it was also the Nordstrom Fall Trend Show, I bolted out of bed. Some people strive to be fashionably late to events, but – trust me ladies – when it comes to a show with the hottest hair-and-makeup news, presented by stylists straight from New York Fashion Week, and backed by the beat of the latest music, a girl wants to be exactly on time!

When I laid my eyes on the above Aveda beauties with their shined hair reflecting the stage lights, I have to admit I was lusting after their look. After the show, I was very excited to meet with one of the Aveda stylists and learn their tricks.

She explained that the first step is to obtain lasting volume. To get this, she used Aveda’s Pure Abundance Hair Potion. It casts a volume spell on your hair, instantly infusing it with enviable fullness.

To use the potion, divide your hair into two-inch sections. For each section, squeeze about ¼ centimeter of product into your hand and massage it into your scalp and the roots of your hair.

Next add the shine! Here is how my hair glowed after the stylist applied Aveda’s Daily Moisturizing Oil.

I know that when it comes to hair care, us girls normally avoid the word oil. After all, no one wants oily hair. But if you rub a couple of drops of this serum in your hands and smooth it all over your hair, your locks will be left with just the right amount for a healthy sheen.

While I was getting my hair styled, I was thrilled to have my good friend Sean stop by and say hi. He is one of the supreme beauty experts. If you never got to read his amazing makeup tips, here they are.

As if we weren’t already having enough fun, along came one of my favorite shoe connoisseurs, Dakota! All I have to say is, “Nordstrom, I wish you had a trend show every weekend!”

I keep receiving requests to interview more single men on my site about their dating preferences. So when my friend called saying she knew a guy who was the definition of fun, a total gentlemen, and the perfect guest for KCC.LA, I was game. And when I say game, I mean it! Chris is an avid basketball fan, so before talking about romance, we filmed a funny sports skit that I’ll post later this week. We didn’t worry about a little detail like the fact that baseball season isn’t over and football has just begun:) According to Chris, basketball can be enjoyed all year round.

This video was my first attempt at playing this game. Chris can attest that sports aren’t my forte. But then, you probably knew that if you saw Baseball Boot Camp. Every time I look at the above picture, I can’t help but laugh. Chris has on his ultimate intimidation stare.

What I enjoy most about Chris is his sense of humor. This guy is just the right blend of hilarious and laid-back. So when I started merging basketball with dance, he didn’t hesitate to join in.

In his professional life, Chris has done what many attempt, but few accomplish. He supports himself by appearing in commercials for everything from Coors to Mercedes. He is a chameleon with multiple looks and a variety of personas.

Speaking of acting, I think the best place to start off with his relationship rundown is…

Don’t Act Your Way Through a First Date. Chris explained that auditioning for a commercial and going on a first date have similarities. During an audition, Chris is often asked to tell about himself. He tries to focus on something unique, but sincere. That is the same way he approaches a first date. As Chris sees it, “People often try to play a part on a first date, rather than being open and honest.” Instead, he thinks they should let the conversation flow, share their passions, and avoid following a scripted “date dialogue.” That always comes across as stilted.

Basketball and Relationships. According to Chris, the two are not that far apart. In his words, “Successfully playing on a basketball team requires being unselfish. You have to look out for your teammates. That’s the same with building a relationship. As soon as one person becomes selfish, the relationship crumbles.”

It’s all about the Smile, Laugh and Eyes. Chris admits that when a girl has a genuine smile and laugh, he can’t help but smile and laugh too. Also, as he explains, “Eyes are a pathway to the heart.” If a woman has good eye contact, a man feels like she cares.

As a girl who has blogging theme days…one being Meeting Men Monday and another Fashion Friday….it’s no surprise that I fell in love with The Kooples. The three French brothers behind this label add a whole lot of cool to their lust-worthy designs, which are flattering with a vintage feel borrowed from fashion and music icons.

Early on, Alexandre, Laurent, and Raphaël found inspiration for The Kooples from the 60’s rock couple, Keith Richards and Anita Pallenberg. That led them to incorporate musical couples into their advertising campaigns. Each one is unique, and if you visit their YouTube channel, you’ll see what I mean.

In honor of this brand, I concocted the below footage of me wearing one of The Kooples designs while exploring the grounds of a winery. My dad let me rope him in to filming it.

The fair-loving ones are in Puyallup. That is, through September 21st, when they’re in for an assortment of rides, concerts, shows, animals, and one of my favorites—sweet treats. Trust me friends, there are no calories when it comes to fair food:) At least that’s what I kept telling myself when the cotton-candy maker handed over his “smallest” size which was labeled “Super Jumbo!”

I was relishing every bite so much that my friend had to pull an intervention. Do you think I may need to re-watch that healthy eating video I created?!

Then there are the fair animals, which make you feel like you’ve been transported to a family farm.

These three charmers had quite the attitudes. Introverted would not describe them. Whenever an admirer pulled out a camera, they actually posed!

The sign reads, “Free Shipping,” but this tuckered-out attendee decided that in his condition, it should read, “Free Napping.” He was just too cute.

Whether you’re visiting the Seattle area or you live here, doing the Puyallup is a fall must.

Solar flares creating a rare display of Aurora Borealis flooding the midnight sky…at least that’s what my friend and I expected to find when we trekked to Snoqualmie Pass Friday night. The Seattle media had been hyping the moment with fawn-worthy pictures like the one below. I would like to tell you that we were entranced by a show of Northern Lights that would make any scientist envious, but that’s not exactly how our night went down.

We found a very secluded, very dark spot (i.e. the perfect conditions for Northern Light gazing) and were ready to be enthralled. But apparently the solar flares were being a bit persnickety and taking their time. Meanwhile, every car that passed by decelerated to slowpoke speed, eyeing us. I mean, come on people, haven’t you ever seen friends chilling by the side of a very dark road before?;) I felt like I needed a sign saying, “I have not been abducted. I’m here of my own free will.”

So those solar flares didn’t exactly appear for us, but we did get a killer view of the stars.

After a good amount of stargazing, my friend looked at me and said, “I guess it’s not about the event. It’s the journey. Right?” Right! But honestly, we had a great adventure. Who knew that waiting on the Aurora Borealis could be so much fun?! I think sometimes when we’re forced to do nothing is when we get to do something important…finally take the time to get to know another person.

I became attached to Bobbi Brown cosmetics before I had my first boyfriend, went to my first prom, or even entered high school. You could say Bobbi has accompanied me on many firsts:) And today I’m still turning to her trusty products.

I saw an ad with the below Bobbi Babe back when I was about 14. So I made a stop by the counter, got the palette, and taped up the pic along with the artist’s instructions so that I could mimic her look. I’ve kept this cherished makeup memory ever since.

And when I used up the last morsel of product, I returned to Bobbi’s counter and tried to recreate it. I’ve been seeing a lot of this burgundy tone in fall fashions. So the hue is in its prime again, and I’m going to show you how to easily create this look.

To begin, dust a Bone Shimmer Shadow all over your lid. That will make your eyes instantly brighter. Next, brush a Wine Shadow on your lower lid. This is a beautiful color, but can become ultra-bold fast. If you’re going for more of a wine wash, like mine, then blot your brush with a tissue before using it. You can always add more color, but removing it mid-application can make a mess. Here’s a face diagram of what I’ve done.

Bobbi is no longer selling my exact eye crease color, but Mahogany is a similar tone. Using an Eye Smudge Brush, follow your half-moon eye crease. To keep your eyes looking big, avoid extending the shadow all the way to your inner corner. As a general rule, when it comes to crease color I stop mid-eye.

Add some Gel Eyeliner with a touch of Gunmetal Shadow applied over it, dust on a kiss of Plum Blush, and you’re ready to breeze out the door all set for that fall event.

Recently, I went salsa dancing for the third time and it was mega fun. For those of you who’ve never been to a salsa club, it’s much different than a regular club. Everything is partner-based, and people constantly switch partners as guys ask girls to dance. Bold women do blaze the trail and ask men, but it’s more common the other way around. Even though I’m still learning the salsa steps, I have learned how to stay off the sidelines and on the dance floor thanks to my friend’s tips!

One of my guy friends – who’s a salsa whiz – invited me to come dancing. On the drive to the club, he explained that the last time he went, his sister joined him. She was high on the attractive meter, but low on dance partners. Not a single guy asked her and since she was still learning the steps, she was a little hesitant about being the aggressor. My friend’s idea of a landmark evening wasn’t doing “hot” dances with his sister in order to rescue her from being left behind. So he taught her the requisite Do’s so you Don’t sit on the side. After following her brother’s advice, this girl was never a wallflower again. Here are his tips…

Do Have an Open Stance. It’s okay to chat with a girlfriend on the sidelines, but if you want to get asked to dance, face your body toward the floor. This shows that you’re open to an invite.

Do Have Your Arms By Your Side. Folding your arms is an automatic sign that your shop is closed. It’s like advertising, “Don’t ask me.”

Don’t Sit Down at a Table. I’ve actually heard girls who were sitting around a secluded corner table complain that no men had asked them to dance. Lovely ladies, get off your butts and take a daring step near the dance floor. Guys tend to pick girls who are closer. No one wants to go on a trek to ask someone to dance.

I wish I could say that I was there… I can’t, but I did have a front row seat at my computer while perusing pics posted from those events:) Since the weather is still warm where I am, I’m more than happy to spot spring fashions. So here are some 2015 trends I’ve tracked.

White Out. Fashionistas will be sporting white come spring if J.Crew and designer Cynthia Rowley are any gauge. And I’d say a girl can’t go wrong following these hot lines.

Full Skirt Alert. Designers like Monique Lhuillier and Lela Rose are showing that spring will present a feminine front with this look. So ladies, you can rock that full skirt yet wheel those business deals!

Plunge with Pride. I’d say the plunging neckline has become a staple since Amy Adams wore it in the role that earned her a 2014 Golden Globe. Thanks to the Jay Godfrey collection, American Hustle style will live on into 2015.

Whenever I attend an event with dancing on the invitation, one of my Derhy dresses is always is serious consideration as an escort. When I think of this French line, femininity and boldness come to mind. Derhy melds flirty styles with strong colors for a look that stands out in any room.

Intricate detailing is another Derhy trademark.

I bought this creation back in college when I studied abroad in Spain. Several of the local Madrid stores were carrying the French line. When my plane landed, the summer sales had begun, and I was lucky to snag three Derhys for about the price of one! Whenever I wear this dress, I know that at least one person will ask about this incredible brand, so I’ve decided to let you all in on the French favorite.

I’m also revealing a sizing secret. A voluptuous girlfriend – one who could give Katy Perry stiff competition for her silhouette – tried on a number of Derhy designs in Paris, but none of them fit her prosperous décolleté. A stylist consoled her by explaining that some of the brand’s designs aren’t made for babes who could be Playboy centerfolds. So if you are blessed with that type of figure, I’d advise trying on your favorite Derhy before ordering online. And don’t chagrin if it doesn’t fit. There are many ladies who would happily take your place:)

Since it’s Travel Thursday, in honor of this French line, I’m sharing a sought-after French destination—Les Deux Garcons in Aix-en-Provence. I listed it as a hot spot in my book The Single Girl’s Guide to Meeting European Men, and I hear that it’s still hot. The word around town is that this is where acclaimed writers go to celebrate book deals, so if you’re into ornate décor and bestselling authors, this is your haunt.

When I read about these adorable cohorts in The Wall Street Journal, I just had to post about them. They prove that natural enemies can become the best of friends.

These three were rescued from an Atlanta basement years ago and now reside at Noah’s Ark, an animal sanctuary in Locust Grove, Georgia.

No one thought that ferocious carnivores, like a black bear, a Bengal tiger and a lion could become soul mates, but they did! They grew up together in adverse circumstances and forged a bond as strong as family. I think this proves that if we put aside our prejudices and focus on love, we’ll find more room in our hearts for others.

Some people think that only mega stars with their armies of stylists can be mega beautiful. But I say, not so! Anyone with a positive outlook and a healthy lifestyle is radiant. To show how it’s done, I’ve decided to create a Science of Beauty video series, starting with the Beauty of Foods.

With the help of my friend Annie, who works at an obesity-and-metabolism clinic, I crafted a way for even those on the tightest of budgets to have a healthy diet.

And we couldn’t help but pick up these flowers along the way! So now – without waiting a second longer – I’m clicking “share to YouTube” in my Final Cut program, and posting my video!

…for a successful, loving relationship. Sure there are unions built on one-way love, but at some point the person putting in the effort wakes up to reality and feels lovelorn. Dr. Sue Johnson, a psychologist and couples therapist, uses biology, neuroscience, and clinical psychology to present a strong case for this hypothesis in her book, Love Sense: the Revolutionary New Science of Romantic Relationships.

Based on her research, Dr. Johnson believes that two of the most critical questions to ask when gauging the strength of a potential life partner are, “Will you put me first?” and “Are you there for me when I need you?” People often talk of falling in love, but keeping that love alive requires maintaining a daily bond.

Okay Fashion Friends, a while back I stopped counting the amount of Milly dresses I’ve worn on this site. Can that fashionista help it if her creations are so covetous?!

What I adore most about Milly is that her dresses are timeless. I had this find rung up about five years ago at a designer super-sale and the style is still on trend. If you’re ever able to attend a Nordstrom designer sale, it’s worth the trip. But to capture what you want, you’ve got to come early. When I bought this Milly, there was only one size left in every style. This one happened to fit me and was 75% off! So at these types of events, if you score, you can win the style jackpot and your pocketbook will thank you.

On my way to dinner with friends, I stopped to click these pics. As you can see from my expression, I spotted something (or should I say someone?) appealing that diverted my attention:)

I just emailed Steve, director of the Toronto Independent Film Festival, famously known as “a headline event for micro and no-budget films” running in tandem with TIFF. We became friends when I attended the festivals last year. I passed on my wish to clone myself so I could cover my responsibilities state-side and still hop a plane to Toronto 2014:) Last year, I was honored to have my short film But I Do featured opening weekend and win Best Music Video!

Right now, I’m glued to my computer pumping out some writing assignments, but in spirit I’m mingling with the TIFF crowds.

Here’s a little video that I created at last year’s extravaganza.

And if you are in Toronto right now, let me tell you, dining is an integral part of the festival experience. From morning ‘til night, attendees rush about between back-to-back events and premieres. To make it to everything with the energy to enjoy it all, I’d feast at an early breakfast knowing that I probably would not be able to sit down and eat again until a late dinner. If your schedule is anything like mine, you’ll need to make every meal count. One of my favorite restaurants was Kit Kat Italian Bar & Grill. It’s close to the action, family run, savory and Hob Knob Central—with a four-story tree growing next to the kitchen and extending past the roof!

I’m ignoring the fact that this morning I detected a hint of gloomy skies. I’m making the most of every last ray of summer sunshine!

Before the summer flowers began to fade, I got to attend a garden party for everyone who volunteered at the Pacific Northwest Flower & Garden Show.

I’ve been fascinated by flowers ever since I can remember. When I was twelve, I began creating my own garden and won the Golden Scoop Award in the Pacific Northwest Competition for Home Gardeners.

Here I am planting my first tree.

And here’s my garden four years later. Can you find that tree?!

From that moment on, I’ve never looked back on my love for nature. I’ve been an Arboretum Foundation volunteer for over a decade, and admired all the horticulture experts I’ve been privileged to meet there.

This event was held at an impressive University of Washington farm, which is run by students. The produce grown there is served at campus eateries.

We got to taste some of the students’ harvest at the volunteer-appreciation party.

I came early to enjoy a farm tour and snap pics.

This haven is nestled in the bustling city of Seattle, but the tranquility of the landscape makes it feel like a rural island insulated from the metropolis.

I never wanted to return to the real world again…which is probably why I lingered taking so many pictures. Something about this beautiful scenery makes a girl pose happy:)

Thank you, Arboretum Foundation, for hosting this event and supporting 230 acres of natural beauty.

I couldn’t leave without making a wish at the well:)