Having turned 50 this year, I continue to face the mirror on a constant search for wrinkles, dark spots and assorted other aging things that happen to skin.  I have to admit that I’m always flattered when people say, “NO WAY!  You can’t be 50.”  Well I guess I have some good genes, but I also must say that using Mary Kay for the last 20+ years must have helped. My current MUST HAVE product is the Lash Love mascara.  Both Clara and I use this product and it’s absolutely the BEST!  It doesn’t clump, smug, flake or wear-off during the day.  It lengthens my lashes and it’s easy to remove at night.

I also use these products on a regular basis:

Soothe puffy eyes on contact with Mary Kay TimeWise® Repair Eye Renewal Cream – Targets undereye bags, puffiness and dark circles with a unique zamac metal applicator tip gently massages the under eye to help reduce puffiness and provide a fresh, cooling effect.

Combat dryness and brighten complexion with Mary Kay Moisture-Renewing Gel Mask – Cooling mask contains a potent blend of vital skincare essentials, including moisture-loving Sodium Hyaluronate, Vitamins E and B3, and an extract of superfruit Acai Berry.  Helps skin feel calm, purified and nourished.

Apply Mary Kay Concealer under the eyes to diminish dark undereye circles and under the nose to conceal red irritation.  Available in six natural shades plus yellow (to reduce the appearance of red in the skin tone).

Use Mary Kay Facial Highlighting Pen on the top of cheekbones and the inner corner of the eyes to brighten the face. Special light-reflecting pigments optically “lift” the shadowy areas of your face.

TimeWise® Age-Fighting Moisturizer is formulated with a patented^† complex that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Even though I completely BOMBED at being a Mary Kay consultant, I love the products and believe in them.  I can’t image going a day without having at least 1 Mary Kay product on my face.

Products were graciously provided by Mary Kay Cosmetics. Opinions expressed here are my own.

Cheyenne Headrick is an Editorial Planning Manager and Style & Beauty Editor at Chic Galleria. She is a recent graduate of the University of Washington with a degree in English. In her free time, she likes interior design, watching comedies, and reading. You can follow her on twitter at @cnheadrick.

This one from USA Bride is definitely elegant and upper east side chic. With some loose curls and a dab of this silver satin ribbon, this headband can really emphasize the elegance of the bride. Pair it up with some chandelier ear rings and you will certainly have the crowd’s attention when walking down that walkway. Although be aware, as tempting as it is to go for the extraordinary hair styles, the simple the better to really bring out the class with this headband.

David’s Bridal is catching on to this trend and offers quite a selection of heads, such as this one. If the simple but chic ribbon didn’t do it for you, maybe some floral arrangements will be better suited for you. In a sideways or lower end hair bun, this will give it a more modern and spring feeling look on your big day.

Or maybe you are looking for something more sparkly – then this one found at Etsy may be your calling. If you’re the bride that wants the shine, literally – these crystals can really make a statement. With this headband, you have endless choices with how your hair should be styled, ranging from a tied up bun, or a half tier waved hair or even just full on curls bouncing, you will definitely pull this look off.

This post brought to you courtesy of Tiffany Ly.

When Laura Zeranski, co-author of Polish Classic Recipes (Classics Series), first tested the recipe, Peter Zeranski had not tasted these dumplings for many years. But the first bite immediately recalled the memory of his childhood when his mom made them as an occasional special treat. They were a special favorite of Peter’s dad for whom these dumplings were a tradition in his childhood home in Poland.

More Chic Recipes:

Colorado Culinary Adventure: Salad of Tart Greens, Prosciutto and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Hearty Friday: Beef Stew

Three Friends and One Potato Casserole Recipe

Peter T. Zeranski and Laura C. Zeranski co-authored the critically acclaimed Polish Classic Recipes, (Pelican Publishing, 2011) treasured by Poles the world over.  The husband-and-wife team are eager to preserve the heritage of dishes that may be losing their traditional roots with the passing of older generations – dishes that they have been cooking, serving and eating for decades.

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To recap, Emerald Madness is a March Madness style tournament pitting the best emerald shades against each other throughout the month of May. The winner will be revealed on May 31st.

Thank you to everyone who voted last week to push their favorites onward in the bracket. Keep their fight alive by continuing to vote.

The race towards the number one spot is heating up and I need you to vote for your favorite green nail polishes to keep them in the running! Some tough battles were fought last week but the decisions aren’t getting any easier. I have my own favorites that I’m pulling for so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that you love them as much as I do.

Elite Eight voting will close on Tuesday, May 21st and the Final Four vote will start on Wednesday, May 22nd.

If you are unable to view the survey CLICK HERE to cast your vote on the survey site.

Encourage your friends to vote for your favorite colors using the hashtag #EmeraldMadness or [TWEET THIS]

Are you enjoying Emerald Madness as much as I am? Should we do this every year with the Pantone Color of the Year?

L’Oréal Paris is showing its playful side with a limited edition, sweet treat of a collection called Miss Candy. The stars of the Miss Candy show are new gelly (aka jelly) Colour Riche Nail in eight delectable hues.

L'Oréal Paris Miss Candy Colour Riche Gelly Nail

Press Sample

Jelly polishes are fan faves, not just for their lucite looks and build-able coverage but also for their usefulness in layering and nail art. I had a great time experimenting with different syrup gradient combinations and glitter jelly sandwich looks. Keep reading to see what I came up with.

Formula & Application: L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Nail is 5-Free. The rectangular glass bottles are topped with a smooth, round cap that is the perfect length to hold comfortably between fingers without becoming cumbersome. The brush is flat, thin and long. It’s not as wide as OPI’s, which I find to be a plus. The bristles are flexible but dense so it doesn’t fan out much. This is a bonus for slim nails.

All of the “gelly” polishes are thin and squishy in texture. They glide on the nails and self level. The pigmentation is strong yet sheer so you get a punch of color with one coat but it has that see-through cellophane-esque appearance common to jelly polish. With multiple coats you can build coverage but even after three coats, it’s not opaque. You just get a more dramatic color payoff. I had no staining issues with any of the shades and they dry to a high gloss shine even without top coat.

L’Oréal Paris Bananarama Love is a lemony sheer similar to Deborah Lippmann’s Yellow Brick Road. It has a milky, buttery quality to it.

L'Oreal Paris Bananarama Love

L’Oreal Paris Berry Nice reminds me of a grape popsicle. Based on the bottle, I expected it to come out too vampy for summer but it’s just light and sheer enough to avoid that.

L'Oreal Paris Berry Nice

L’Oréal Paris Bubble Trouble is a baby pink creme. Due to the milkiness of its base, it gives more coverage than some of the darker shades.

L'Oréal Paris Bubble Trouble

L’Oréal Paris Créme de Mint is another milky shade though it’s not as build-able as Bubble Trouble. It’s a grassy mint green that reminds me of grasshopper cookie filling.

L'Oréal Paris Creme de Mint

L’Oréal Paris Jolly Lolly is a slightly berry-ish red creme. It’s like a wash of cherry red lipgloss for your nails.

L'Oréal Paris Jolly Lolly

L’Oréal Paris Lilac Coolers is the last of the milky jelly sheers in this collection. This pink-based pale purple gives a similar level of coverage as Bubble Trouble.

L'Oréal Paris Lilac Coolers

L’Oréal Paris Mango Mama is a crystal jelly that dries to appear like tangerine jello on the nail.

L'Oréal Paris Mango Mama

L’Oréal Paris Miss Pixie is a vibrant royal blue. In the bottle it looks like a lighter version of the cobalt colored JINsoon Blue Iris but on the nail it’s not quite as intense.

L'Oréal Paris Miss Pixie

As I mentioned above, jelly nail polish is ideal for use in layering and nail art. I tried my hand at two different looks using the Miss Candy gellies.

First, a glitter jelly sandwich using Miss Pixie. Starting with a base coat of Miss Pixie, I added a layer of L’Oréal Paris Sparklicious (a glitter from Holiday 2012). Over that, I added two coats of Miss Pixie, for a perfectly smooth finish, and the final result gives the impression of the glitter being trapped in a sea of blue jelly.

L'Oréal Paris Miss Pixie Jelly Sandwich

Finally, I tried my hand at a syrup gradient manicure using Lilac Coolers as a base with Créme de Mint creating the gradation.

How-to: 1) Apply two coats of Lilac Coolers. 2) Apply Créme de Mint to the tips of the nails. 3) Apply Créme de Mint starting a little further down the nail, covering the first layer, thus deepening it. 4) Apply one last coat of Créme de Mint starting about 2/3 down the nail from the free edge, again covering the other layers. 5) Add top coat to blend it all.

Application tips: 1) Don’t worry about perfectly straight lines when applying the top color. Each time you add another layer, it will smooth everything out. 2) Wait between layers. You’re putting on a lot of layers of polish and if you don’t wait for it to dry, you’ll end up clumping the polish at the tip.

Syrup gradient nail art using Lilac Coolers and Creme de Mint

And here’s a little New Edition to put you in the Miss Candy mood. I’m gearing up for the NKOTB, 98 Degrees and Boys II Men “The Package Tour” so I’ve been on a boy band kick of late.

Bottom Line: Jelly polish is a great way to wear bold color in a more subtle way. It’s also excellent for layering and nail art, as I’ve shown. If you want the true opaque color, a coat of white polish underneath will do the trick. Overall, the Miss Candy collection delivers a nice range of shades that offers something for everyone. My personal faves are Miss Pixie, Creme de Mint and Jolly Lolly.

The L’Oréal Paris Miss Candy collection is available now for a limited time at drugstores and mass retailers nationwide. L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Nail retails for $5.99/ea for a .39oz bottle.

Are you into these new “gelly” colors from L’Oréal Paris? Which ones are calling your name? How do you like my syrup manicure and jelly sandwich look?

Disclosure: Product samples were provided by reps for L’Oréal Paris. For more info view my Disclosure Policy.

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To recap, Emerald Madness is a March Madness style tournament pitting the best emerald shades against each other throughout the month of May. The winner will be revealed on my birthday, May 31st.

Thank you to everyone who voted last week to push their favorites onward in the bracket race to number one. Now it’s time to keep your faves in the running.

Similar to the NCAA tourney, the top seeds dominated the first round (with a few exceptions) but now the tough decisions begin. Some serious fan faves are up against each other in this round and I’m curious to see who will make it to the Elite Eight.

Voting is open until Thursday, May 16th with Elite Eight voting starting on Friady, May 17th.

The survey is now closed. Thank you for voting! Here are the Round 1 contenders, for your viewing pleasure.

Emerald Creme

Essie Going Incognito vs Illamasqua Rampage

Revlon Posh vs China Glaze Four Leaf Clover

Emerald Specialty

a England Saint George vs Nails Inc Spitalfields Magnetic

Illamasqua Kink vs OPI Here Today Aragon Tomorrow Suede

Emerald Glitter

China Glaze Emerald Sparkle vs Nails Inc Nail Jewelry Picadilly Arcade

China Glaze Running in Circles vs Zoya Ivanka

Emerald Shimmer

Nubar Greener vs Wet n Wild SaGreena The Teenage Witch

Zoya Holly vs FingerPaints Sketch n Etch

So did any of your faves get knocked out in the first round? Do you have a Final Four in mind? Tell me your predictions in the comments!

If you’d like to view the Round 1 contenders, CLICK HERE!

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I keep playing with the idea of dots inside dots, dots layered over dots but a lot of my practice designs have come off flat. Then I came across this graphic, retro-inspired design from My Awesome Beauty and my motivation kicked in. Having recently received the new Physician’s Formula Endless Color Custom Nail Trios, to test, it seemed like the perfect time to give this three color design a try.

The Pinspiration: The base color of this design by My Awesome Beauty is one of my fave Zoya colors, Pinta, so that immediately caught my eye. But more than that, I love how the use of dots and stripes creates somewhat of an optical illusion. Just a few well placed dots also gives the impression that this design is much complicated than it actually is. Given my limited nail art talents, I’m all about trying something that looks like I have skills beyond my means.

image by My Awesome Beauty via ZoyaNailPolish on Pinterest

Retro Polka Dots How-to

What you need: Two different size dotting tools, striping tape/painters tape/Scotch tape and three nail polish shades of your choosing.

I used a thin artist curve painter’s tape & dotting tools I bought on Amazon, and the new Physician’s Formula Endless Color Three Shades of Grey nail polish trio. I originally thought about using contrasting colors but in testing a few combinations, I loved the more subtle look of the grey trio. The formula of the polish is really nice and pigmented. Super easy to apply in spite of the tiny brush and handle size. Plus, they are 5-Free and Gluten-Free.

Technique: 1) Apply two coats of your base color and let dry. 2) Add a stripe of the second color down the middle. 3) Add a thin stripe of your third color in the very center of the nail. 4) Place three dots down the center of the nail, using the third color. Make sure the dots are wider than the smallest stripe. 5) Place two dots along the line between the first and second color on each side of the nail, using the first color. 6) Using the smaller dotting tool, place dots of color inside the previous dots using the opposite color (first color on third, third color on first).

Notes: 1) I free-handed the silver stripe but you can use tape. The process just takes longer. 2) I used Seche Ultra-V UV Top Coat to dry the first stripe faster. 3) Tap the tape against your palm to reduce the tackiness and prevent pulling the polish. 4) If your lines aren’t perfect, the dots should camouflage that (mine did!) 5) Wait as long as possible before adding top coat to avoid streaking the dots (a mistake I made).

Retro Polka Dot Nail Art Tutorial

The Finished Product – It didn’t turn out nearly as well as my Pinspiration but I’m quite happy with the overall look. I need some more practice with dotting. While some dots dry nice and flat, some never seem to smooth out and that left me with smaller dots in certain areas.

Retro Polka Dot Nail Art

Retro Polka Dot Nail Art

The Physician’s Formula Endless Color Custom Nail Trios are available now at mass retailers nationwide including Target.com and ULTA.com. Suggested retail is $10.95/ea for a total of .45oz/trio.

Also, Physician’s Formula has launched the Make It Yours Manicure Contest with a grand prize of a trip to NYC to attend New York Fashion Week! From now through June 15, 2013, post a three-hued manicure using one of the eight Endless Color Custom Nail Polish Trios on a social media outlet AND the Physician’s Formula Facebook page using the #PFBeautyBuzz hastag and you could be off to NYC. If one of you win, please tell me so we can meet at the tents! For full details and the official rules, please visit PhysiciansFormula.com/MakeItYoursContest.

Finally, follow my PinspiratioNAIL board on Pinterest and leave a comment on the look you would like to see me try next.

So are you loving these retro-inspired dots? Is this a look you’ll try? Have you used the new Endless Color trios yet? If not, do you plan to try them?

Disclosure: Product samples were provided by reps for Physician’s Formula. All other products were purchased by me. For more info view my Disclosure Policy.

The exhibit examines punk’s influence on high fashion, so if any event was going to bring the nail art, hardcore, it would be this one. Considered the “Oscars of Fashion”, the Met Gala was definitely not lacking in nail drama. Some of the world’s most sought after manicurists brought their A-game last night. Let’s take a look!

Blake Lively, in Gucci, wearing floral bling nails created by Celebrity Manicurist Elle, using Red Carpet Manicure.

images via Celebutopia.net and Celebrity Manicurist Elle on Twitter

Celebrity Manicurist Pattie Yankee gave us a preview of Katy Perry’s look when she sent out a shot of the tips she created to go with Katy’s Joan of Arc theme. I spoke with Pattie to get the breakdown on how she created these little works of art.

Starting with a base of her eponymous Patricia Nail Lacquer in Diadem, a metallic gold, on her Inspire Almond full coverage pre-glued tips, she burnished CND Additives in Antique Bronze into the dry polish before sealing with CND Shellac Top Coat. She then layered two different types of foil, a silver with rainbow spots and a gold, on the nail to give it a stained glass effect, sealing it with another layer of Shellac Top Coat. Finally she set antique rubies and gold studs into the top gel. She was able to knock out the whole set in an hour and a half.

image via Pattie Yankee on Instagram

Wearing a dress straight off the Dolce and Gabbana Fall 2013 runway, Katy tweeted that she was “channeling the OG queen of PUNK, JOAN of ARC!”

images courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana and via Katy Perry on Twitter

Emmy Rossum, wearing a dress by Donna Karen, worked with butter LONDON Global Colour Ambassador Katie Hughes to create a lace and crystal nail look with Yummy Mummy at its base. Katie created elegant yet edgy nail art for Emmy using extra pieces of lace – the same fabric from which her dress was created – supplied by Donna Karan. The designer also supplied Emmy with individual crystals, also used on her dress, to help enhance her nail look, adding a bit of punk rocker edge.

images courtesy of Celebutopia.net and butter LONDON

Julianne Hough, wearing a Topshop dress of spider web embroidered tulle, tweeted out shots of what looks to be a jet black manicure accented with gems and pearls on two nails. Though what’s interesting is that the image from the day of (right) shows the polish looking more rubbery. Get the look at home using a satin top coat over black polish or wearing Cult Nails Fetish or Nails Inc Leather Effect in Noho (which also comes in the Bling It On – Rebel nail art kit).

UPDATE: Julianne worked with Celebrity Manicurist Tracy Clemens, represented by Opus Beauty, who used Chanel Black Satin and Chanel Top Coat on her nails. On the two accent nails she applied Martha Stewart craft beads from JoAnn and black nail art fibers to give it a rubbery texture. She purchased the fibers at a nail supply and they look like large matte bar glitter pieces.

image via Celebutopia.net

images via Julianne Hough on Instagram

Anne Hathaway worked with Celebrity Manicurist Alicia Torello to create a rainbow gradient leopard print nail to go with her bleach blonde hair and barely there Valentino gown. The look is very similar to one OPI created for Z Spoke by Zach Posen.

images via Celebutopia.net and Alicia Torello on Instagram

Sienna Miller went all out wearing studded nails to compliment her studded Burberry jacket. Deborah Lippmann created the look using Fade To Black on her tips and toes, adding gold cones to her fingers and a metallic skull to her big toe.

images via Celebutopia.net and Deborah Lippamann on Instagram

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley worked with Celebrity Manicurist Bernadette Thompson who created this light gold tipped gradient nail.

image via Celebutopia.net and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley on Instagram

Olivia Wilde, who is so stunning it’s ridiculous, kept it low key with a graphic black & white French by Deborah Lippmann who used Amazing Grace as a base with just a sliver of Fade To Black at the tip to give it edge. It actually mimics the eye look Celebrity Makeup Artist Melanie Inglessis created, using double lines of black and white, with Revlon PhotoReady Kajal Intense Eyeliner.

images via Celebutopia.net and Deborah Lippmann on Instagram

Nicole Richie certainly didn’t hold back. The woman of the coveted beach waves, flipped the hair script by dying her mane a powdery grey. Regardless of what’s going on above the brows, the woman knows how to take a nail picture. Spotted on her Instagram, she rocked a heart shaped moon manicure in burgundy and gold.

images via Celebutopia.net and Nicole Richie on Instagram

Perhaps Nicole’s nails were inspired by her friend and fellow fashionista Kelly Osbourne. If you watch Fashion Police on the regular, as I do, you know Miss Kelly O loves herself a heart shaped stiletto tip and she didn’t fail to bring that to the party last night.

image via Celebutopia.net

Last night Jennifer Lopez turned to her longtime manicurist, Elle, for a textural black manicure. With a matte black base and a glossy tip, she kept her nail art subtle yet perfectly on-trend. With the recent release of the OPI Matte Top Coat, matte is making a bit of a comeback. Expect to see more matte & glossy nail art looks on the horizon.

images via Celebutopia.net

January Jones loves to buck against the 60s Betty Draper style she wears on set and last night was no exception. Looking straight out of a Mad Max movie, I was surprised to see her wear such an art deco nail style. Celebrity Manicurist Ashlie Johnson created the look using Chanel Dragon and Black Satin.

images via Celebutopia.net and Ashlie Johnson on Twitter

Coco Rocha was all slinky and sexy in her feathered, animal print Emanuel Ungaro gown. She accented the look with what looks to be gold jeweled tips with a black base. You can get a similar look with Nail Veils, a semi-precious gold nail jewelry. Pattie Yankee recently used the product on nails for Katy Perry’s fragrance launch (see pic) and they look amazing. Plus, they’re reusable.

images via Celebutopia.net

Finally, Chanel Iman turned to Beyonce’s nail guru, Celebrity Manicurist Lisa Logan for a graphic (do you see a pattern?) black and white nail design using Red Carpet Manicure gel polish. The pattern paired perfectly with her J. Mendel gown (view on Just Jared).

image via Lisa Logan on Instagram

Which nail looks from the Met Gala were a hit and which were a miss? Will you attempt to re-create any of them at home? If you’re in NYC or planning to visit, do you plan to stop by the Costume Institute to see the exhibit?

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It’s no secret that I’m a longtime lover of green nail polish so when Pantone bestowed their coveted “Color of the Year” title on Emerald, no one was happier than me. Combine that with the fact that I’m a May baby (May 31st) with an emerald birthstone and the concept for Emerald Madness was born.

Keep reading to view the contenders and cast your vote in the first round of playoffs.

I sorted through every green nail polish I own, both current and discontinued colors. I broke the competition down into four major categories (Creme, Glitter, Shimmer and Specialty), selecting the top eight contenders in each field. Serving as your Associated Press, I seeded the colors for each bracket and now it’s all up to you.

You have from now until Saturday May 11th to vote for your first round favorites with the winners and next round of voting revealed on Monday, May 13th. We will continue voting throughout the month of May with the overall winner revealed on my birthday, May 31st.

The survey is now closed. Thank you for voting! Here are the Round 1 contenders, for your viewing pleasure.

Emerald Cremes

Picture Polish Shamrock vs Essie Going Incognito

Illamasqua Rampage vs Estee Lauder Wicked Green

Revlon Posh vs Models Own Green Tea

China Glaze Four Leaf Clover vs Sephora+Pantone Emerald

Emerald Specialty

La Rose Green Crackle vs a England Saint George

Nails Inc Spitalfields Magnetic vs WetnWild Drawn Together By Force Magnetic

Illamasqua Kink vs Sephora+Pantone Emerald Matte

OPI Here Today Aragon Tomorrow Suede vs Revlon Emerald City Matte Suede

Emerald Glitters

China Glaze Emerald Sparkle vs Zoya Rina

Nails Inc Nail Jewelry Picadilly Arcade vs WetnWild FastDry Emerald The Crown Jewel

China Glaze Running in Circles vs Nubar Emerald

Zoya Ivanka vs Jordana Green Glitz

Emerald Shimmers

Nubar Greener vs LCN Green Emerald

Sally Hansen Going Green vs WetnWild SaGreena The Teenage Witch

Sparitual Rhythm of Life vs Zoya Holly

Sinful Colors Rise and Shine vs FingerPaints Sketch n Etch

I hope you enjoy Emerald Madness and I can’t wait to see which color will be crowned the Best Emerald Green Nail Polish of All Time!

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An amalgamation of metallic shimmer and glitter, The Mermaids, are a dreamy take on the Deborah Lippmann glitz party we’ve come to know and love.

Formula & Application: Deborah Lippmann nail polish is 5-Free (DBP, Toluene, Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor) and cruelty-free. Her signature glass bottle is one of the most recognizable shapes in the industry. The curved cap was designed with professional manicurists in mind as it is shaped to rest comfortably between your fingers. The Lippmann brush is short, round and average in width with flexible bristles that easily fan out over the nail plate.

The Mermaids all have a thin, watery, semi-sheer texture to them which helps suspend the multiple types of glitter and shimmer and makes application a breeze. Given that, you do need three coats of color to achieve full coverage. Also, because we are talking glitter, removal is a chore and the polish eats top coat. I used two coats of Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab top coat and that results in a smooth, not slick, surface.

Deborah Lippmann Do The Mermaid has a shimmery pale lavender base packed with royal purple micro-glitter and sequins.

Deborah Lippmann Do The Mermaid

Deborah Lippmann Mermaid’s Eyes is a metallic, almost chrome, cyan peppered with gold micro-glitter and larger electric blue sequins. Thankfully, unlike traditional chromes, there is no streakiness in Mermaid’s Eyes underbelly.

Deborah Lippmann Mermaid's Eyes

Deborah Lippmann Mermaid’s Kiss has so much complexity it’s almost hard to nail down all its components. This twinkling blush-based shade mixes champagne and baby pink micro-glitter with blush and raspberry sequins. It’s the champagne glitter that gives it a slightly metallic look.

Deborah Lippmann Mermaid's Kiss

Deborah Lippmann Million Dollar Mermaid is a pale tangerine semi-sheer shimmer filled with orange and gold micro-glitter and metallic orange sequins. This along with Do The Mermaid are the least metallic shades in collection.

Deborah Lippmann Million Dollar Mermaid

Of course, attention must be paid to the shade that started it all, Deborah Lippmann Mermaid’s Dream. A metallic turquoise base incorporates bright blue and gold micro-glitter with blue sequins.

Deborah Lippmann Mermaid's Dream

The semi-sheer nature of The Mermaids lends itself to glitter gradient nail art and two of the shades from the Deborah Lippmann GIRLS collection are perfectly suited to a tonal gradient. Using Deborah Lippmann Marnie and Shoshanna as the bases for Mermaid’s Kiss and Do The Mermaid, respectively, makes for a sweet and sparkly look.

Deborah Lippmann "The Mermaids" Glitter Gradient Nail Art

Bottom Line: I hope you’re sitting down for this because I’m about to shock you. I’m having a serious love affair with Mermaid’s Kiss. It’s my favorite in the collection. “A PINK!?!?” is exactly what the boyfriend exclaimed when I wore it to dinner last night. I know, I know, I’m just as surprised as you are but it’s got me under its spell. Something about the mixture of glitters and its overall ethereal quality drew me in. Who would have guessed?

Million Dollar Mermaid is definitely my runner-up fave in the collection with Do The Mermaid nipping at its heels. Now, as if I haven’t dropped a big enough bomb on you, I’m actually not that big of a fan of Mermaid’s Dream or Mermaid’s Eyes. They’re beautiful, yes, but something about their texture and metallic quality feels heavy and clunky to me. They do, however, draw up visions of my favorite merman (yes I have Zoolander on the brain), so I leave you with this gem.

Deborah Lippmann “The Mermaids” nail polishes are available now at DeborahLippmann.com, Beauty.com,  Barneys New York, Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom. Nail polishes retail for $19/ea for a .5oz bottle.

Thoughts on The Mermaids? Are you happy Deborah Lippmann expanded the line past Mermaid’s Dream? Which of these do you plan to pick up? What kind of a glitter gradient would you create with these shades?

Disclosure: Product samples were provided by reps for Deborah Lippmann. Affiliate links may appear via a third party link service. For more info view my Disclosure Policy.

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Tip 1 – Swipe bare nails with vinegar prior to polishing. Yep, plain old white vinegar. It removes any oils or residues to help your manicure last.

Tip 2 – Use a thin brush dipped in nail polish remover to clean up polish mistakes. This one seems so obvious to me now but, when I first learned of it, it was a total, “Eureka!” moment. Lightly swiping the brush inside the cuticle will give you the perfect, professional polish curve, EVERY TIME!

Tip 3 – Wrap your tips (aka cap the free edge). This is one of those blink and you’ll miss it techniques that all professional manicurists use. As you finish each coat of base, polish and top coat, lightly swipe the edge of your nail to prolong wear. Pictured below is an exaggerated version of what wrapping your tips looks like.

Tip 4 – Roll your way to the perfect French tip. As you know, I’m not a fan of the classic French manicure but I’m always on board for a funky, colorful French. If you have the patience, using tape will give you foolproof results but in this fast paced world, as Sweet Brown says, “ain’t nobody got time for dat!” The key is to use a polish with a thin brush, like Revlon Nail Art Expressionist,  hold your brush steady, and roll your finger underneath.

Tip 5 – Apply cuticle oil to the skin around your nail prior to polish removal to prevent staining. This is crucial when you are using dark polishes or colors that are notorious for staining. Blues & greens I’m looking at you. The added benefit, you protect the skin from the drying effects of nail polish remover.

What are you favorite nail tips? Do you use any of these in your typical manicure routine?

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Revlon and Style Coalition. For more info, view my Disclosure Policy.

MAC Fashion Sets Spring 2013

Affiliate Link|Press Sample

Of course, MAC was hot on this trend when they introduced the Fashion Sets concept last summer. Well, they’re at it again with four statement making sets of matching lip, nail and eye colors. For years, I’ve spouted off on my dislike for identical tips & toes but, lips & tips, this I can get behind.

Formula & Application: MAC Nail Lacquer is 4-Free(it does contain camphor). The tall cylindrical glass bottles are topped with a round, rubberized cap and a thick, stiff, round brush. The MAC brush can be your best friend or worst enemy. It allows for perfect polish placement but if you press too hard you’ll end up with patchiness or drag marks, so polish with a light touch.

If you’re a longtime reader, you know that I’ve given the MAC formula grief in the past but it has made serious strides in the last couple of years. It flows seamlessly on the nail and self levels. The pigmentation is great with all the shades except the light pink. Even though it’s not at all chalky, it did leave some streaks so I needed three coats. The rest of the polishes give full coverage with two thin coats.

MAC Ablaze is a tomato red creme. MAC describes is as a “bright orange” but there is too much red in it for that. It’s got a hint of pink that gives it a slight coral feel and sets it apart from the other orange-reds we’ve seen this season (OPI My Paprika Is Hotter Than Yours, Essie Hip-anema).

MAC Ablaze Nail Lacquer

MAC Embrace Me is a deep raspberry pink creme. It lives in the same shade neighborhood as Zoya Reagan.

MAC Embrace Me Nail Lacquer

I received all the matching Embrace Me lip products as well, so I did a lip swatch to show you how they pair. I used the Embrace Me Lip Pencil, Matte Lipstick and Lipglass and, as you can see, it creates a punchy, bold look.

MAC Embrace Me Lip Pencil, Lipstick, Lipglass and Nail Nacquer

MAC Heroine is a mid-tone violet creme. I’m not gonna lie, I misjudged this one. I assumed based on bottle color alone that it wouldn’t flatter me; I tend to gravitate to cool purples. Color me wrong! It’s not nearly as warm as I anticipated. It’s actually a lighter version of CND Eclectic Purple, a fave shade of mine. Just another reason you can’t rely on bottle color when selecting a nail polish.

MAC Heroine Nail Lacquer

MAC Silly is a tulip pink creme. It’s bright but not obnoxiously so. I don’t anything quite like it.

MAC Silly Nail Lacquer

Bottom Line: Heroine ended up being the surprise of this collection. It’s one of my new fave purples and proof that I CAN wear warmer purple shades. I just have to find the right one. Ablaze is my other big winner from the collection. It’s a unique take on orange-reds. Embrace Me is nice but not something I see myself reaching for often. Silly’s streaking issues earn it a “pass” from me.

All four MAC Fashion Sets Nail Lacquers are available now on MACCosmetics.com. Some shades are still for sale on Dillards.com, Macys.com and Nordstrom.com. Counter availability will vary. MAC Nail Lacquer retails for $16/ea for a .34 oz bottle

Do you ever match your lips to your tips? If not, is it a look you will try? Are any of these colors calling to you? 

Disclosure: Product samples were provided by MAC. For more info view my Disclosure Policy.

FingerPaints Wild About Spring

Affiliate Link|Press Sample

Normally this would give an “indoor kid” like me the heebie jeebies but I can’t get mad at the adorable bejeweled rings that come with each bottle. It’s the only way a bee or beetle would EVER come in contact with my skin on purpose.

Formula & Application: FingerPaints is 5-Free and produced exclusively for Sally Beauty. The FingerPaints bottle is unique in that it’s kind of an oblong shape (remember The Oblongs) with a long, slender, slightly taped cap. The brush is long, thin and flexible. It reminds me of the old OPI brush which is probably why so many of us speculated that OPI made FingerPaints back in the day.

The formula in this collection varied due to the range of finishes so I will comment on them individually in each color review.

FingerPaints Itsy Bitsy Spider is a violet with blue fleck glitter. It is thin and applies somewhat sheer but I was able to get full coverage in two coats. To give you an idea of the base color, it’s very similar to Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear Virtual Violet but the shimmer/glitter makes all the difference. The blue flecks in Itsy Bitsy Spider really bring this color to life.

FingerPaints Itsy Bitsy Spider

FingerPaints I Spy-der is a baby pink, laced with violet flecks and a jelly-ish feel. Like Itsy Bitsy Spider, it applies somewhat sheer but becomes opaque to the naked eye with three coats. I don’t have anything quite like it. FingerPaints Strawberry Shake has a slightly warmer base with a pearl finish.

FingerPaints I Spy-der

FingerPaints Hoppy Go Lucky is a teal chrome metallic. As is the plague of most chrome polishes, this one applies pretty streaky. It’s pigmented enough that you can get away with one coat, which is always a bonus when working with chromes. Application tip: Finish application with a stroke down the middle of the nail to avoid an uneven finish. You can also sponge on a second coat to get a smoother result. Stain warning: Even with a base coat, this baby stains. I needed two rounds with Orly Cutique to remove it.

FingerPaints Hoppy Go Lucky

FingerPaints Are You Hoppy? is a light purple foil shard glitter. Think of a piece of colored aluminum foil tore into pieces and submerged in clear polish. I don’t recommend wearing this type of glitter as anything but a top coat because of the amount of layers you would need to get it opaque. The shards don’t spread easily so you need to place them on the nail with your brush. Application tip: Dot a ball of the glitter polish at the base of the nail, re-dip your brush and then spread over the nail to get even glitter coverage.

FingerPaints Are You Hoppy?

FingerPaints Fishin’ For Fun is a light pink and magenta foil shard glitter. Like Are You Hoppy? it is best used as a top coat.

FingerPaints Fishin' For Fun

FingerPaints Owlin’ At The Moon is a pale, verdant green foil shard glitter. On the nail, the green doesn’t translate as much. It looks more a like a light chartreuse . It does come with a pretty kick ass owl ring though.

FingerPaints Owlin' At The Moon

Bottom Line: Itsy Bitsy Spider takes out the rest of the collection with a one-two punch. It’s my hands down favorite of the group. As much as I love teal, I CAN’T with Hoppy Go Lucky. The staining and streaking are too much for me to bear. I Spy-der is pretty and unique for pink lovers, it’s just not for me. The shard glitters are all fun but Fishin For Fun is the best of the bunch. I love the mix of colors and I think it will work over a wide range of base shades.

FingerPaints Wild About Spring collection is available now at Sally Beauty stores nationwide and in stock online at SallyBeauty.com. FingerPaints nail polish retails for$5.29 ($4.49 with club card) for a .5oz bottle.

Are you a fan of shard glitters? Which of these colors will go on your shopping list? What is your favorite shade from the FingerPaints line?

Disclosure: Product samples were provided by Sally Beauty. For more info view my Disclosure Policy.

On Style Remix, we show you interesting new ways to wear staples that most college girls already own, and today, we’re featuring a real summer classic: the swimsuit!

Rather than showing you new ways to wear your swimsuit to the beach or pool, we’re showing you new ways to play with beach outfits and coverups for settings like beach bonfires, boardwalks, water parks, and lounging by lakehouses.

The most common go-to’s for swimsuit coverups are sundresses, long tunic tops with loose shorts, and even the occasional maxi dress. So today, we’re pushing the envelope to show you even more ways to work your summer swimwear! We’ve even paired each look with a new favorite summer song.

P.S. – If you’re still looking for ways to feel confident in a suit, find the best fit for your body, or explore more inventive swimsuit styles, check out our other articles on swimwear.

1. Icona Pop: “I Love It (feat. Charli XCX)”

Product Details: Bikini, Shirt, Bow, Sunglasses, Skirt, Sandals

Much like the peppy beat of “I Love It,” this outfit has a lot of energy!

Pop a few buttons on the tie-front blouse to show off your bathing suit top, and slip on a skater skirt — it provides decent coverage and a great silhouette for this summer. With this look, you can get away with mixing prints since they’re in such small amounts: a little polka-dot in the bow, a little floral in the sunglasses, and the stripes in the bikini all work together here.

2. Jillette Johnson: “Torpedo”

Product Details: Suit, Sunglasses, Headwrap, Bag, Shorts, Sandals

“Torpedo” captures the easygoing vibe of summer so perfectly, and with a little soul in the vocals and reverb in the chorus, it’s got us hooked on fresh, funky, youthful style.

For this look, we paired a fringed monokini with high-waist shorts and free-spirited accessories. This look gives you legs for days: the combo of high-waisted shorts and neutral wedges will elongate those gams like nothing else. Here, we’ve paired neons and brights with neutrals for a look that’s on-trend and perfectly fresh for a summer afternoon.

3. Caro Emerald: “Back It Up”

Product Details: Suit Top, Suit Bottom, Hat, Earrings, Sunglasses, Skirt, Sandals

Even though Dutch artist Caro Emerald’s CD has been out for a couple of years, “Back it Up” is just now getting popular in the US.

For this swim-friendly look, we’ve paired a bikini with a long, tulip-cut knit skirt, vintage-inspired accessories, and a glam sun hat! Channel your inner jazz crooner with shapes that not only emphasize your curves, but also provide some modest coverage. Since you’re more covered on the bottom, you could take a fashion risk and go bikini-only on top (if your location allows) or you could slip on a light, sleeveless, semi-sheer blouse, like this one.

What do you think?

Would you wear these beach separates? Which look is your favorite? How do you style your beach cover-ups? Have you listened to any of these songs? Tell us in the comments below!

While I have absolutely loved traveling to cities such as Paris and Madrid during my semester abroad, I knew that my time in Europe just wouldn’t be complete without a pit stop in The Eternal City – Rome.

After our program ended, my friend Nicole and I (we’re both graduating in May), decided to skip out on senior week festivities and instead see Italy before returning to Boston. We spent three days in Rome, then headed south to Sorrento, a gorgeous little city close to the Amalfi Coast. Like Paris, Rome is an intoxicating city full of narrow streets and delightful discoveries. Let’s take a trip to some of the most famous monuments of Rome!

All Roads Lead to Rome: About The Eternal City

• Rome is the capital of Italy and the 5th most populous city in the European Union. According to legend, Rome was founded in 753 B.C. by Romulus on Palatine Hill, one of the Seven Hills of Rome.
• The storied city has seen the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, the dazzling creativity of the Italian Renaissance, and the 1861 unification of Italy. No wonder they call it the Eternal City.
• If you plan on visiting, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes! The abundance of history also means less-modern pavement and transportation methods. The Roman metro, for instance, doesn’t really span the entire city because it’s not easy to build subway tunnels due to all the ruins that are underground.
• Also, keep in mind that you can be turned away from churches if your shoulders and knees aren’t covered. So, remember to keep a cardigan or shawl as well as a pair of tights with you just to be on the safe side.

Colosseum

The Colosseum is, well, colossal. (Oh, how my rhetoric dazzles.) This ancient amphitheater, the largest in the world, began construction in 70 A.D. under the Roman emperor Vespasian and was completed in 80 A.D. under Titus’s rule. The Colosseum, or Colosseo, could seat 50,000 people and was used for events such as gladiator matches, mock sea battles (in which the entire arena was flooded with water), animal hunts, and theatrical productions.

Product Information: Dress, Sandals, Bag, Earrings, Bangle

Take a trip back in time with this ancient Roman-inspired ensemble. Confession: I actually saw a girl wearing this exact dress during my visit to the Roman forums — which are right next to the Colosseum — and creepily followed her for a bit because I liked the dress so much. (I may or may not have cried a little when I was unable to find the dress in my size in any Mango store.)

The cutout back of the dress is such a fun detail, while its flowy fabric pairs perfectly with understated gladiator sandals. Add a pair of claw earrings and a sword bangle to represent the Colosseum’s entertainment offerings. Finally, stow your belongings in a cute red cross-body bag for a fun pop of color!

St. Peter’s Basilica

While I’m not religious, visiting Saint Peter’s Basilica was seriously awe-inspiring. Even while we were waiting outside in the square, the domed exterior of the building was incredible. Inside, the jaw-droppingly beautiful statues, inlays, and carvings cover every inch of the basilica – one hardly knows where to look! According to Roman Catholic tradition, Saint Peter’s burial site is located under the basilica, which was consecrated in 1626.

As with most churches in Italy, the Basilica holds its guests to a respectful dress code – shoulders and knees must be covered. Admittedly, I forgot to bring a long-enough skirt and had to buy myself a pair of 3-euro leggings, which I wore as pants. (Forgive me.)

Product Information: Jacket, Blouse, Trousers, Necklace, Earrings, Flats

Look perfectly put-together in this monumental house of worship with a dusty rose blouse and crisp jacquard trousers. A sharp jacket with a slight metallic sheen adds a bit of edge to the outfit, while a pretty gold necklace recalls the gilded decoration of the basilica.

Fontana di Trevi

I was shocked when I saw the Trevi Fountain – it looks just like the one outside of Caesar’s Palace in Vegas, doesn’t it? (Joking!) In all seriousness, this fountain was one of the Roman sites I was most excited to visit, and for good reason! The enormous Baroque fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi and completed after his death in 1762.

Oceanus, the god of water, is the centerpiece of the breathtakingly dramatic fountain. According to tradition, throwing a coin into the Trevi guarantees that you’ll return to Rome.

Product Information: Cardigan, Top, Skirt, Flats, Bracelet, Earrings

The Trevi is literally a fountain of inspiration: a flowing cerulean skirt references the crystal-clear water, while a white top and pale gray cardigan allude to the complex stone sculptures. Make sure to choose graceful fabrics that drape well. Metallic flats and stone drop earrings are simple but chic. Finally, slip on a jangly coin bracelet to make sure that you’ll return to Rome!

Spanish Steps

You have to feel a little sorry for the French – they were the ones who actually paid for the famous Spanish Steps! (They are named so because they connect the Spanish Embassy at the base of the steps with the Trinità dei Monti church at the top.) The Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti, as it’s called in Italian, is the widest staircase in Europe, and is the perfect place to people-watch while enjoying a gelato.

Product Information: Top, Cardigan, Skirt, Flats, Satchel, Scarf

While I have still never actually seen the movie, I don’t think an inspired-by Rome post is complete without an outfit referencing Roman Holiday!

Audrey Hepburn would surely approve of this sweet and classic ensemble. A Peter Pan blouse and high-waisted skirt are perfectly complemented by a sky-blue cardigan and pretty peep-toe flats. A chic scarf and preppy satchel finish off the look.

What did you think?

Would you wear these outfits? Have you been to Rome? What was your favorite place to visit? Have you seen Roman Holiday? (It’s on my to-watch list!) Let me know in the comments!

Megan 101

Name: Megan Sparks

College: Savannah College of Art

Year: Freshman

Major: Fashion

Let’s Talk Fashion

Who or what inspires your style? “Contrast! I love wearing things that don’t immediately go together, or items that enhance each other [in unexpected ways]. I am also inspired by Leandra Medine, culture, and ballet!”

Why did you choose this particular outfit? “It was comfortable and different.”

What fashion advice would you give to other students looking to improve their style? “Take risks – even if you don’t go out, put pieces you don’t expect together. It might just work! Buy unexpected things, too! [Don't just stick with what you usually buy.]”

What are you favorite trends right now? “I’m really into the sheer metallic trend. I’m obsessed with it!”

Do you have any favorite designers? “Alice Temperly, Nina Ricci, Michelle Smith, Ann Valerie Hash.”

What do you like to do for fun? “Lately, I really like to watch old VHS tapes. Mostly, I love to meet new people – I’m a social butterfly.”

If you could raid anyone’s closet, who would it be and why? “Ulyana Sergeenko‘s closet. She’s a Russian designer and street style blogger, and I am always inspired by the Russian culture and style.”

Elements of Megan’s Outfit

1. Mint Heels

While Megan’s white button-up and boyfriend jeans are trendy and stylish, her shoes are the true focus of her look. Her mint-colored pumps are perfect for the spring season, as this hue is just about everywhere.

Megan expertly cuffed her jeans at the bottom, in order to show off her shoes even more. Not to mention, the heels dress the outfit up a notch, adding into her classic style with a trendy twist.

2. Simple Jewelry

Megan kept her jewelry light and delicate, choosing simple hoop earrings. This way, her jewelry acts as an accent to the look and allows her outfit to do all of the talking.

What do you think?

How do you like Megan’s outfit? Are you obsessed with her shoes? How do you dress up a casual outfit? Let us know in the comments below!

Photo Credit

With graduations happening across the country, college students everywhere are donning their caps and gowns and entering “the real world” in droves. One of the perks of graduation day (aside from no more classes and an excuse to celebrate!) is that it often comes with a gift of some sort from your loved ones.

While not all students are lucky enough to get cash for graduation, if you are among those fortunate few, it’s important to spend your hard-gifted money the right way – ideally, on something that will help you in your future career/adult life. (That’s the point of a grad gift anyway, right?) While those glittery Louboutins might be calling your name, your future self will thank you if you put this money toward something practical.

To help you decide what to buy, our friends at CollegeCandy have put together a list of the best, most practical things to spend your commencement cash on. Click over to check out the full list!

Do you struggle with transforming your outfits from day to night? Don’t worry, CF is here to help turn that daily annoyance into a fun challenge. Class to Night Out focuses on one piece per week, and aims to help you take your look from study sessions in the library to dancing the night away.

We’re a bit obsessed with polka dots lately. From nail art to DIY shorts, this sweet and feminine print has all but taken over spring fashion. Not that we’re complaining, of course.

I’m starting a summer internship soon, and it’s really important to me to find a way to incorporate my personal style into my fairly conservative work outfits. That’s why I’ve decided to devote this week’s Class to Night Out to one of my must-have trendy pieces – a polka dot print blazer.

Now, I definitely couldn’t wear either of the outfits I’ve put together to work, but that just goes to show how endlessly versatile printed blazers can be! On to the outfits:

Polka Dot Blazer: Class

Blazer, Tee, Shorts, Sandals, Bag, Bangle, Earrings

For a cute, eclectic daytime outfit, pair your girly blazer with an edgy band tee (because who doesn’t love Blondie?) and a pair of distressed denim shorts. This creates really cool contrast that’s simultaneously adorable and fashion-forward.

Next, add a pair of white strappy sandals and a quirky pastel shoulder bag. Add a few touches of bling with a winged bangle and sparkly blue studs to complete the look.

Polka Dot Blazer: Night Out

Blazer, Top, Shorts, Sandals, Bag, Necklace, Earrings

Create an ultra-trendy night out look by adding a little texture to your ensemble with an orange lace crop top. The bold fabric and color add both dimension and edgy contrast to the ensemble. Keep things on-trend with a pair of leather-look shorts and a minty blue clutch.

Of course, an outfit this fierce calls for plenty of sparkle, so add a silver chain statement necklace and matching hoop earrings next. Some wild black cut-out pumps add the finishing touch.

Your thoughts?

How would you style a polka dot blazer? What other pieces would you like to see featured on Class to Night Out? Be sure to leave me a comment and let me know what you think of the outfits – I love hearing your thoughts!

Regardless of one’s political views, Hillary Clinton is an excellent source of fashion inspiration for all of us ladies with summer jobs that require professional outfits. She’s smart, tough, and classy, with a can-do attitude — an excellent role model for us modern women.

Source: Elle

Today, I’ll tell you all about Hillary Clinton’s accomplishments as well as break down the elements of her personal style. Plus, I’ve created four Hillary-inspired outfits that work perfectly for a summer job or internship. Read on to learn more!

Politics 101: Hillary Clinton

• Hillary Clinton was born Hillary Rodham on October 26, 1947. Her father ran a small business and her mother was a housewife.
• In 1965, Hillary enrolled at Wellesley College, where she got her Bachelor of Arts.
• Hillary began her postgraduate education at Yale. In 1971, she began dating fellow student Bill Clinton. They married in 1975 and had their daughter Chelsea in 1980.
• In 1992, Hillary was a prominent player in Bill’s presidential campaign. On the campaign trail, Bill would even say that voting for him was like getting two for one, since Hillary would continue to play a significant political role.
• Bill Clinton became the President of the United States in 1993. As First Lady, Hillary Clinton definitely rocked the boat. Her involvement in politics, her post-graduate degree, and her career before becoming the First Lady forced the public to reconsider the role of a president’s wife. She’s often compared to Eleanor Roosevelt for this reason.
• On January 3, 2001, Hillary was sworn in as a United States Senator. She was the first First Lady to ever run for office.
• In 2008, Hilary Clinton began her presidential campaign, but ultimately lost the Democratic nomination to Barack Obama.
• Despite the failed campaign, Hillary became the Secretary of State in Obama’s administration. On January 21, 2009, she resigned from the senate and took over as Secretary of State until February 1, 2013.
• Since February, it has been unclear as to what Hillary will do next. She is not currently holding a political position and has said that she isn’t interested in campaigning for the presidency again. However, she does have a very high approval rating and she’s a favorite for the 2016 Democrat nomination, so we’ll have to wait and see!

Elements of Hillary Clinton’s Style

Suits

Source: Wikimedia Commons

These past few months have been the first time in thirty years that Hillary Clinton has been a fully private citizen. When she was in the public eye and politically involved, if not holding a political position, she opted for the standard white-collar uniform: the suit.

Hillary has mastered the power suit without it looking like she just stepped out of the ’80s. Rocking every color and cut imaginable, she’s managed to keep this office basic looking updated and fresh.

If you’re going to take style inspiration from Hillary Clinton, I’d suggest that you opt for suits when you’re picking your outfits for your summer job or internship. The best part? These days, we ladies have more variety and choice than ever when it comes to wearing suits. Later on, I’ll show you four variations of this office staple.

Simple Accessories

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Hillary uses her accessories as an accent, but is careful to choose pieces that won’t distract from her face and what she’s saying. No matter what she’s wearing, Hillary likes to keep her jewelry simple, usually opting for a short necklace and stud earrings.

Whether her necklace is a delicate chain or a string of chunky beads, it’s never long or dangly. The last thing she wants to do is add a boho touch to her look with a long pendant necklace. Similarly, her earrings are never dangly – they’re always small, simple, and polished.

To channel Hillary’s vibe, let your outfit take the spotlight and only use your jewelry to complement the ensemble.

Monochrome

Source: Elle

Monochrome is one of the hottest trends this season. And if there’s one person who can always pull it off, it’s Hillary Clinton.

Over the years, Hillary’s been spotted wearing monochrome suit sets on countless occasions – and telling by her confidence sporting bright orange from head to toe in the above photograph, she’s clearly reached ninja levels with this trend.

So lastly, if you’re channeling Hillary’s style this summer, be sure to rock the monochrome trend. Wear neutrals if you’re new to the trend, or jump right in and wear brights if you’re feeling bold.

Putting it All Together

Red-y For Work

Earrings, Necklace, Shoes, Shirt, Shorts, Blazer

When it comes to dressing for the office, professionalism is always key. However  in the summer, it can also be tempting to grab more casual pieces that won’t make you melt in the heat.

If a heatwave hits or the air conditioning breaks, I would highly recommend wearing a blazer and knee-length shorts instead of pants. Since you’ll be showing some leg, button the sleeveless blouse all the way up to to balance out the outfit and keep it modest. Accessorize with a statement necklace, studs, and sleek heels.

Suited Up in Blue

Blazer, Shoes, Shirt, Pants, Earrings, Necklace

This outfit is super-easy to wear, since navy blue acts as a neutral. In the hot summer months, cropped pants are your best friend– you’d be surprised how much cooler they are than full-length trousers! These pants are also cotton, making them even more comfortable in the warmer months.

Pair the dark pants with a dark blazer and pumps to let the fun shape and texture of the shirt stand out. Complete the outfit with an interesting necklace and girly studs.

Business Lady in Lilac

Purse, Shoes, Earrings, Necklace, Shirt, Skirt, Blazer

One of the oft-forgotten suit options for ladies is the classic suit and skirt. While pencil skirts are very classy, I’d recommend an a-line skirt in the summer. Not only is it, well, breezier, but, in my opinion, the a-line creates a more interesting silhouette than the pencil skirt.

While very feminine, purple is surprisingly easy to style from head to toe because of its wide range of shades. I chose to work with mostly blue-toned purples, from the rich plum skirt all the way up the the lavender-grey tank top. (Swap out the tank for a blouse if your office is more formal.) Once again, finish the outfit off with a short statement necklace and floral-shaped earrings.

Night Out in Black and White

Dress, Blazer, Shoes, Earrings, Bag, Necklace

Let’s  not forget the original monochromatic shades: black and white. This combination will create a sleek and modern look, while still maintaining a formal vibe, perfect for a fun event.

I especially love this outfit because all of the pieces are super-versatile. To keep the outfit dynamic, I chose pieces with interesting details, such as this white blazer with a large black lapel, a striped dress, geometric earrings, and a glittery beaded necklace.

Thoughts?

What did you think of this post? Do you like the outfits? What do you think of Hillary’s style? Will you be working at an office this summer? Who should I cover next? Leave your thoughts below!

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Saks Fifth Avenue is offering free standard ground shipping on all orders of $150+ with code MAYSFA through 5/27.

Sally Beauty Supply will give you $5 off any purchase of $25 with promo code 555202 or 10% off orders of $50 or more with code 555215. Both offers valid through 5/31.

Torrid is offering 10% off all orders with code 05AF13OFF through 6/15.

ULTA Beauty will give you 20% off any one item with code 105958 through 6/1.

Wallis is offering up to 30% off sitewide, plus get free shipping on any order over $30 with code WAL30. Hurry, offers end today, 5/16!

I Tried Gwyneth Paltrow’s Diet, from The Cut. I have to say, this was the funniest thing I read all week.

This is long but worth the read: The Luxe Life in Gatsby, The Bling Ring, and Other Films (and what it all says about our culture).

And for those of you procrastinating studying for finals right now, you are welcome.

Also from Buzzfeed and also motivating for study time: 22 Inspirational Posters That Might Actually Inspire You.

A cure for your finals-induced dark circles, from Michelle Phan.

And for those who know that stressed is desserts spelled backwards, a recipe for the best peanut butter brownies you’ll ever have, from A Cup of Jo.

See also: Caramel Toffee Cheesecake Bars, from Annie’s Eats.

Oh my god, yes: Why Miss Frizzle is Our Favorite Street Style Star of All Time, from Lucky.

In case you missed it, Angelina Jolie wrote a piece for the New York Times on her choice to have a preventative double mastectomy after finding out she had an 87% risk of contracting breast cancer. We commend Angelina for her bravery and honesty. Hopefully, her story will inspire more women to be proactive with their health.

And while we’re on the subject, Jezebel gave Angie a standing ovation for her choice.

Also Angie-Related: Angelina’s 10 Best Red Carpet Moments, from StyleList.

Kendi, of Kendi Everyday, wrote an incredibly honest post about her struggle with panic attacks and depression and the real pressures that entrepreneurship can put on a person. It’s so, so cool of her to come out with this and we wish her all the best!

This might just be the best to-go breakfast idea ever. Must try!

Cute DIY idea: Illusion Hem Skirt à la Alexander Wang Spring 2013.

And 30 more cute DIY ideas: 30 Ways to Get Your T-Shirts Ready for Summer, from Buzzfeed.

11 Nerdy Recipes from Books, Movies, and TV. Bookmark this and try them all this summer!

Target is promoting their new home line in perhaps the cutest way possible. I want to visit!

Extra Petite did a great post on becoming a more responsible apparel consumer, in light of the recent tragedies in Bangladesh and Cambodia. No one has all the answers yet, but her links do provide a great starting point.

Female Video Game Developer Calls Boss Out on Sexism with Amusing Art Prank. This lady is awesome.

Okay, now you probably don’t need a tutorial to show you how to use lipstick as blush, however The Beauty Department does do it in cute picture form that really shows how the look can work.

Also from TBD, a guide to the best moisturizing shampoos at different price points.

After eight years, countless episodes, and the cutest coworker romance of all time, The Office is finally airing its series finale tonight on NBC. Grantland discusses the end of an era and why the show’s ending is particularly fitting.

Haha, love: #PrincessProblems.

Oh god, this is both wonderful and horrific: A Bling Ring Shopping Guide, from The Gloss.

Teen Vogue did a great interview with Karlie Kloss – she talks about her new jean line (with 40 inch inseams!), her buzz worthy haircut, and her plans to go back to school.

8 Signs You Are Actually a Cat, from Thought Catalog. I’m like 50% cat. (Okay, 65.) What about you?

Ohhhh snap: 7 Classic Movies That Are Shameless Ripoffs, from Cracked.

This adorable braid tutorial is probably the most perfect summer hairstyle for long hair, um, ever.

Aww, this is great: Service Dog Arrives at College Graduation in Cap and Gown, Becomes Celebrity

This is a super cute way to spruce up your apartment dining table for summer.

Would you shop at a drive-through department store? I feel like this can’t be far off in America.

These photos are so cute that it’s making me ill: Top 15 Fashion Blogger Weddings.

R29 shows you how to pack for a carry-on vacation. Very helpful!

The Six Major Anxieties of Social Media. Yep, you probably have all of these. So do the rest of us. All of us. Seriously.

Hahah, story of my life: 10 Things That Are Bound to Happen Whenever You Paint Your Nails.

According to Noveau Cheap, you might want to head to your local CVS right away for some deep beauty discounts!

And finally, it does not get cuter than this puppy at Yosemite! I die.

CF has written a lot of articles about maxi dresses in the past, and – although it took a while for me to get on board – I think I’m slowly falling for this trend, too. This week, I decided to dig inside my closet and find the only maxi dress I have – which I have probably worn twice in the year since I bought it – to play dress-up and experiment a bit.

The reason this piece of clothing is so scary for me is that I find it overwhelming in terms of length and color. Also, I used to think it was more appropriate for the beach than campus. However, by the time I was done with this post, I had already changed my mind! Read on to see how I styled a maxi dress for spring:

1. Find the right balance

Now, this dress might not be for everyone, but I am of average height and think I managed to pull it off easily. The key here is to combine and experiment, but always keep in mind that there’s a specific silhouette out there that works for you and will always make your body look absolutely amazing. You may have to experiment to find it, but it’s worth the time invested!

I wasn’t very comfortable with how tight my dress was in the back, so I wanted to wear something that would mask that area. I added a crochet vest on top, but since I also wanted to look put-together, I used a belt to emphasize my waist. The vest also has a second function: because the dress is such a strong electric blue, the neutral white makes it easier on the eye and less overwhelming.

2. Slightly formal

I wanted to see if I could take a beachy maxi dress and style it into a look that would be appropriate for an office or classroom setting. I think I succeeded, although for a conservative workplace I would replace the chunky sandals with a different pair of high-heeled shoes.

Overall, this is probably the easiest way to completely transform a piece of clothing: just add a navy blazer, roll up the sleeves, and put on some fancy shoes.

Also, I don’t know if you noticed but I wore a top underneath the dress – again, double purpose: not only does it hide excess cleavage, but the pink color of the top warms up the cool-toned blue of the dress.

3. Use your resources creatively

This next look transforms a maxi dress into a skirt by layering a blouse on top. If you do this, remember to pay attention to the shirt you choose. I tried several alternatives but what worked best for me was anything that still showed a bit of the dress, such as this off-the-shoulder t-shirt.

I found it necessary to do something to keep the whole ensemble from becoming too sloppy and baggy, hence the knotted t-shirt. Although I liked all the outfits, I think this was my favorite – it’s casual, sporty, and it looks effortlessly chic. It’s also appropriate for campus, especially with the warm weather we’ve been having these days!

4. Forget the rules

Usually, maxi skirts or dresses are supposed to be worn with something tight on top, to maintain a balanced shape. As you can see, I took a different approach, based mostly on what I like to wear and not wanting to obey the rules.

For my fourth outfit, I went for a white shirt which is rather loose and long and I went all in with the accessories, choosing a bold red coral necklace. The red was a dare for me, since the dress was also a strong (but complementary) color, however I think it turned out nicely. I couldn’t decide whether I should wear the shirt unbuttoned or tie it at the waist, so I included both photos, just to see what you think about it!

5. Just one more thing…challenge yourself.

I included one last outfit just because it is one that shows how much I’ve grown since the beginning of the year. Some time ago, wearing something like this used to scare me, but if you remember my New Year’s resolutions, I promised myself to take more risks when it comes to fashion. One of them included wearing more colors, so here I am, wearing three different colors and feeling proud of it.

Your turn, beautiful!

Do you own a maxi dress? Would you wear any of my outfits? How would you style a maxi dress? What other pieces would you like to see me style? I hope I inspired you to give maxi dresses a try and I’m looking forward to hearing what you have to say about it!

Body image is a hot issue that people from all ethnic groups, cultures, economic backgrounds, ages, shapes, and sizes often struggle with. As evolved as our culture has become on embracing all body types, it’s still easy to feel self-conscious — especially during swimsuit season.

The first thing to know about body image is that you’re not alone. Everyone — no matter what their weight or shape — feels insecure from time to time. The good news? You can literally control the amount of self esteem you have.

Feeling good about the way you look is a discipline, just like forcing yourself to study when you’d rather be watching Glee. Training your brain to focus on the beauty can drastically change your life — not only will you only see the good within, but the entire world will seem like a more positive and lovely place as well!

With that being said, swimsuit season is upon us, so in this post, I’m going to share some tips and tricks that will help you put your best foot forward and feel awesome about your body over the summer. Be sure to leave a comment at the end of the post and tell your fellow CF girls some mind games or confidence booster you use on your own as well!

Let’s get right to it! Read on to see my 6 best tips and tricks for looking hot and feeling great in a swimsuit:

1. Focus on the parts of your body that you love.

Photo Credit

Everyone has that one part of their appearance they’re crazy about.

For example, I absolutely love my collarbone. I never leave home without a delicate necklace on, and I often find myself pulling a “Lea Michelle” and posing with my shoulders forward to further emphasize my fabulous collarbone in almost every group photo I take.

Do you have long, thick, shiny hair? Or long, toned legs? Deep-set eyes? Full, kissable lips? Think about the unique feature you have that sets you apart from the crowd. Remember it. Embrace it. Never forget it!

Every time you look in the mirror, make a conscious effort to check out that favorite part about your body and give yourself a compliment. Do this when you brush your teeth, put on your make up, wash your hands after using the restroom, change clothes, or glance into the rear-view mirror while driving. Do it ten times a day!

Admiring yourself doesn’t make you self-centered or full of yourself, I promise. All this does is help train your brain to see the positive, and puts your mind in a thankful, happy place throughout the course of the day.

2. Pick a bathing suit that emphasizes your favorite features.

Photos: ELLE

Back to my great love affair with my collarbone — because I love it so, I look out for swimsuits that criss-cross in the front because it emphasizes my manubrium. Thanks to the wide variety of swimwear available, there’s bound to be a bathing suit style out there that makes you look and feel awesome about your appearance.

Also, if you don’t feel awesome while showing lots of skin, that’s OK! I’m ecstatic that more modest bathing suits are hugely in style now. Those ugly one-pieces you were forced to wear at summer camp are a thing of the past. Now, one-pieces come in flattering halter cuts, and there are some styles with skort-like bottoms that give you extra coverage and stay comfortable all day.

Another modest style that I’m really into are those Mad Men vintage-inspired swimsuits with high-waist bottoms and push-up bikini tops. They’re so flattering, and somehow strike the perfect balance of looking both sexy and demure. A unique bathing suit will make you feel confident AND look like an uber-chic trendsetter!

Whether a string bikini or a one-piece “swim dress” is more your style, the most important thing is that YOU feel confident wearing it. If you love your flat stomach, rock that bikini like a champ! If your arms rival Michelle Obama’s, look for racer-back style suits that will highlight your guns. If your legs are your favorite feature, look for suits that cut your thighs at a high V shape, a la Pam Anderson in Baywatch. The possibilities are endless.

Just be sure to pick out a style that’s truly comfortable – constant tugging at adjusting at your suit will only draw awkward attention to the areas you’re concerned about.

3. Get creative with swim suit cover-ups.

Photos: ELLE

Another way to feel confident while at the lake, beach, or at a pool party (if you don’t like showing tons of skin, that is) is to splurge on a really fabulous cover-up. Look for one that flatters the parts of your body that make you feel self conscious, while still leaving the parts that you love out to play.

For example, I’m not so crazy about showing my lower back/hip area. My perfect fix for this is wearing high-waist shorts over my swimsuits. This way, the part of my torso that shows is my favorite part, and the back and sides of my waist remain covered and chic.

If you don’t like showing your legs or thighs, invest in a great sarong wrap. If you love your legs but don’t feel comfortable showing your stomach, look for a glam kaftan that hits around your mid thigh. Sundresses and terry cloth robes both make faboosh swimming cover-ups as well! It’s all about finding a cover-up that makes you feel 100% comfortable.

Another route you can go is one of comedy. At my college, those big funny white shirts with a picture of a cartoon bikini-clad body were super popular. Not only will you be covered up and comfortable, but you’ll also look like the most fun girl at the party! A little sense of humor can go a long way, and when it comes to a large group of scandily-clad people…well, humor never fails.

4. Glam up with accessories.

Photo: ELLE

A floppy sun hat, a thick pair of cat-eye sunglasses or wayfarers, crystal stud earrings, or even a chic pair of wedges will make you feel like a movie star lounging by the pool. I know that some people argue that wearing accessories or make-up to a pool is impractical and will make you seem high-maintenance, but I disagree. We’re stylish ladies, and we can accessorize whenever we want!

Of course, moderation is key for looking great instead of like a diva (and, most importantly, for practicality’s sake). Be sure to keep it somewhat toned down, especially if you’re going to a place where you’re going to be active, like the lake or the beach. Wedges and a sun hat at a pool party and BBQ? Good. A belly chain, red lipstick, and chandelier earrings on a float trip? Bad. You get the idea.

5. See the beauty in others.

Photo Credit

As mentioned before, being aware of how you look and comparing yourself to others is something that we, as humans, just do naturally. That said, you can make this a positive thing – discipline yourself to not only see what’s awesome about yourself, but only look for the good in those around you as well.

I’m no where near perfect on this. Sometimes — especially at water parks or somewhere else semi-public — it’s really easy to condescendingly chuckle to yourself about someone else and their ill-fitting swim suit or loud body art choices. I know, this makes me seem like an awful person like Regina George or something. I think it comes from my own insecurity — or immaturity. Either way, it’s something that I struggle with and know I need to work on.

Every time you sense your brain going to a negative place about someone else, consciously pick out something beautiful about that person. This won’t always be easy. Treat this mental exercise with the same sort of focused discipline like you do with doing crunches, taking vitamins, or not spending six hours browsing on Pinterest.

Exercises like these will re-train your consciousness to be a more positive, uplifting, and happy place – and by treating others nicely, you’ll learn to start doing the same for yourself.

6. Fake it ’til you make it.

Photo: ELLE

Even if you’re having an off day, hold your head up high and smile – seeing is believing, and the more self-assured you act, the better you will feel.

If you have a big pool party of trip the the beach planned, schedule a yoga class or a brisk walk the day before. Sure, exercise has tons of benefits, but the purpose of exercising right before an event you’ll be wearing a bathing suit at is all about the confidence boost it gives you about your own body.

Another way to achieve this easy confidence boost is by eating healthy foods, treating yourself to an at-home spa day, or buying yourself an inexpensive accessory from Forever 21 or Target.

If you ever catch yourself comparing yourself to any of your gazelle-like friends, re-channel that energy into being thankful about your own body and situation in life. We’re young, healthy, and getting an education. We live in a country where women have extraordinary freedom compared to many other places in the world. We all have a ton going for us! There’s no reason to let your mind go to a negative place.

It’s not always easy, but loving yourself is truly a contagious thing. That natural glow you’ll get from feeling good about yourself will attract tons of great friends and gorgeous guys (or girls!) into your life. And what more could a girl ask for?

What are your secret confidence boosters?

Which swimsuit style makes you look and feel best? What mind games do you play with yourself when you have an off-confidence day? What sort of swimsuit cover-ups do you love? What is your favorite part of your body? What part of your body are you well, learning how to love? As women, we can ALL relate to these sort of issues. Leave a comment and let’s continue this discussion!

Happy Friday everyone! Sale of note, J.Crew has 20% off women’s apparel items.

Ann Taylor – 30% off full-priced shoes.

Banana Republic – Up to 40% off select styles (thru 5/19) which includes these polka dot pants (link to buy). 40% off full-priced shorts, tees, tanks, flip flops, and more (in stores only) (thru 5/22).

Banana Republic Factory - Summer sale: up to 60% off select styles (thru 5/21). Extra 10% off $100+ with this coupon (thru 5/21).

J.Crew – 20% off full-price women’s apparel with code LOOK20 (thru 5/21).

Last Call (Neiman Marcus) - Extra 30% off women’s clothing.

LOFT – Extra 40% off sale styles. Special prices on select shorts, crops and skirts with code GONOW.

Revolve - New items added to sale.

The Outnet - Extra 25% off “Perfect Prints“.

Happy shopping!

Disclosure - Purchasing through the links in this post may yield commissions for AlterationsNeeded.com. See the Alterations Needed Disclosure for more details.

This vest is one of the first clothing items I felt a strong need to posses. At the time, I didn’t have a very focused idea of what my style was, but as soon as I saw it (on the cover of Lucky Magazine), I had to have it. Fast forward to today, and I find it interesting that before I lasered in on a menswear-inspired wardrobe, I had already started collecting items that would fit right into the personal style that would take me years to figure out.

Hunting for distressed denim, I wanted to avoid any that had a distinct knee, since being so short means the placement of faux scuffed knees on a pair of jeans is unlikely to end up at my natural knee. I also tried many pairs from cheaper/fast fashion brands thinking it was smarter to spend less on a pair of jeans that already had holes in them, right? Well, it’s only after trying on many pairs of scratchy, weird fitting fast fashion denim that you really appreciate pulling on a nice, comfy pair of jeans. You win again, premium denim!

These jeans will eventually get hemmed (which they’ll get after a few washes to account for shrinkage), but in the meantime they’re incredibly comfy and the thick rolled cuff can pass as a boyfriend jean.

Outfit details – Banana Republic vest :: Equipment blouse :: Koral jeans :: Manolo Blahnik shoes (also at Neiman Marcus):: Banana Republic belt :: Chanel handbag :: Kate Spade watch :: Stella & Dot bracelet (c/o) :: Vintage brooch

Altered – Equipment blouse has been slimmed :: Manolo Blahnik shoes have ball-of-foot pads & heel liners added :: Kate Spade watch has had the strap replaced

Just a little more of my favorite color, burgundy. I hope everyone has a great week!

Outfit details – J.Crew cardigan :: Banana Republic shirt :: Rachel Zoe skirt (also at Piperlime) :: Rachel Roy shoes :: Chanel handbag :: Banana Republic belt :: Kate Spade watch :: Stella & Dot necklace (c/o) & bracelet (c/o)

Altered – Banana Republic shirt has had darts added :: Rachel Roy shoes have ball of foot and heel liners added :: Kate Spade watch has had the strap replaced

Happy Friday everyone! And happy Mother’s Day to all you moms out there! Sales of note, ASOS has 50% off 50 key summer pieces, and J.Crew has 30% off sale items.

Ann Taylor – 30% off your entire purchase with code MAYCHIC.

ASOS – 50% off 50 key summer pieces.

Banana Republic – 30% off your purchase with code BRMOMDAY (thru 5/12). 35% off your purchase with a BR/Gap/ON card and code BRMOMDAY (thru 5/12).

Banana Republic Factory - 50% off women’s styles (excludes clearance) (thru 5/12). Additional 10% off $100+ with this coupon (thru 5/12).

Bergdorf Goodman - 5F sale: up to 40% off.

Bloomingdales - 25% – 40% off selected merchandise. Extra 15% off select regular & sale-priced items with a Bloomingdales card (thru 5/12).

Cusp - First cuts: 40% – 65% off.

J.Crew – 30% off sale items with code SUNSHINE (thru 5/12).

Last Call (Neiman Marcus) - 30% off accessories (handbags, shoes, jewelry).

LOFT – Teachers receive 25% off any full-price purchase in stores only with a valid Teacher ID (thru 5/12). 40% off select full-price styles. 40% off select “Mother’s Day Must-Haves” with code LOVEMOM.

Neiman Marcus - First call: up to 40% off.

Nordstrom – New markdowns added to sale.

Piperlime – Designer sale: up to 40% off.

Saks Fifth Avenue - Up to 40% off designer selections (thru today, 5/10).

Shopbop - New items added to sale.

The Outnet - Further reductions have been taken on select items.

Happy shopping!

Disclosure - Purchasing through the links in this post may yield commissions for AlterationsNeeded.com. See the Alterations Needed Disclosure for more details.

A drizzly day is a perfect excuse to bust out the trench coat. Ever since discovering that I could fold over and then button each side of the trench to itself, it’s my favorite way to wear it open on a day where the full protection or warmth of a buttoned up trench coat isn’t necessary. And tightening the wrist straps help keep the sleeves where I like them…scrunched up to the elbow.

I really love the idea of “opulent lounge”, which I believe is where my love of smoking slippers also stems. Blouses that resemble pajama tops fit right into that concept, hence my love for these silk tipped blouses from J.Crew (extra 30% off with code SUNSHINE through 5/10), of which I now have two (see the blue version here and here). The contrast piping adds the perfect amount of interest to what would otherwise be a pretty basic pairing. I’ve found myself reaching for this blouse quite often since it arrived.

Outfit details – Burberry trench (similar from Burberry & J.Crew) :: J.Crew shirt :: Koral jeans :: J.Crew belt :: Kate Spade shoes :: Valentino handbag :: Kate Spade watch :: Stella & Dot bracelet (c/o)

Altered – Burberry trench has been slimmed & the sleeves shortened :: Koral jeans have been hemmed & the ankle narrowed :: Kate Spade watch has had the strap replaced

Have you ever looked at something and couldn’t quite tell if it was very dark brown or black? If so, then you know why the old fashion rule exists that “you should never wear black with brown”. When trying to match black with black, a very dark shade of brown could trick you into thinking it’s black, and then you’d look like you “got dressed in the dark”. The same can be said of very dark navy.

So, how do you pair black with brown? I like to make sure the tones are different enough that they aren’t easily mistaken for each other. I love pairing tan and other light browns with black, as well as reddish-brown tones like cognac.

Yet another great discovery by Jean, these shorts are Zara kids, and were an absolute steal during the Zara fall sale. The rich tweed texture in varying shades of brown made a beautiful pairing with the flat textured black shirt. I brought brown back into the top of the outfit with the brass tones of the necklace, and kept the rest of the accessories black.

Outfit details – Banana Republic shirt :: Zara shorts :: Kate Spade shoes :: Chanel handbag :: Stella & Dot necklace & bracelet (c/o) :: Kate Spade watch

Altered – Kate Spade watch has had the strap replaced

Happy Friday everyone! Sales of note, the Neiman Marcus stores (Neiman Marcus, Cusp, Bergdrof Goodman) have made their “first call” sale cuts on select spring merchandise and new items have been added to the sale at Shopbop.

Ann Taylor – Check out the new arrivals. Card holders earn double points this weekend.

ASOS – Free 2-day shipping on $140+ with code EXPRESSUSA.

Banana Republic – 30% off your purchase with code BRDERBY (thru 5/5). 40% off sale items (in stores only) (thru 5/5).

Banana Republic Factory - Everything 50% off (thru 5/5). Extra 10% off $100+ with this coupon (thru 5/5).

Bergdorf Goodman - 5F sale: up to 40% off.

Bloomingdales - 20% off two or more pairs of shoes (full price or sale styles) with code HEELS (thru 5/6).

Cusp - First cuts: 40% – 65% off.

J.Crew – 25% off every purchase with code SPRINGBEST (thru today, 5/3). Extra 30% off sale styles with code SUNSHINE (thru 5/5).

Last Call (Neiman Marcus) - Extra 30% off your entire purchase (thru 5/7).

LOFT – Extra 60% off sale styles.

LOFT Outlet - Extra 15% off $75+ with this coupon.

Madewell - Extra 30% off sale styles & free shipping of $50+ with code EXTRA30 (thru 5/6).

Neiman Marcus - First call: up to 40% off.

Nordstrom – New markdowns added to sale.

Piperlime – 20% off select dresses with code DRESS (thru 5/4). Designer sale: up to 40% off.

Shopbop - New items added to sale.

The Outnet - Extra 30% off “Wardrobe Refreshers”

Happy shopping!

Disclosure - Purchasing through the links in this post may yield commissions for AlterationsNeeded.com. See the Alterations Needed Disclosure for more details.

Few things feel as spring-like to me as busting out the seersucker blazer for the first time. It only seems appropriate then that just as I pull the pastels and seersucker out of my closet, the dreary weather known as “June Gloom” seems to have set in (which is a terrible fog that hangs out near the coast of California, making the months of May and June miserably cold, cloudy, and just overall bumming everyone out).

Oh, what’s that? I think I hear San Francisco from way down here. They’re saying, “Quit complaining, SoCal. Our fog is so epic, it tweets.”

Outfit details – Theory blazer (similar from J.Crew & Forever 21) :: Banana Republic shirt :: Rag & Bone jeans :: Kate Spade shoes :: J.Crew belt :: Original Penguin pocket square :: Trussardi handbag :: Kate Spade watch :: Stella & Dot bracelet

Altered – Theory blazer has had the shoulder narrowed :: Kate Spade watch has had the strap replaced

Happy Friday everyone! Sales of note, Saks Fifth Avenue is having a Friends & Family sale and J.Crew has 25% off your purchase.

Ann Taylor – 40% off your entire purchase with code CITYCHIC.

ASOS – $30 off $150+ with code 30ASOSRMN (thru 4/28). Mid-season sale: up to 70% off plus get another 10% off sale with code SALESCORE (thru 4/28). Get $10 off your first order of $100+ with code WELCOME10 (thru 4/28 4PM PT).

Banana Republic – 35% off your purchase with code BR35TREAT (thru 4/27). Up to 50% off select styles (thru 4/27). Included in the promotion are the dot-crop pants I wore here, a cute silk/linen blazer for summer, and these very hand camisoles I wear under sheer/silk blouses.

Banana Republic Factory - 50% off everything (thru 4/28). Additional 10% off $100+ with this coupon (thru 4/28).

Bloomingdales - Private Sale: 20% – 40% off select merchandise. Extra 40% off almost all sale items. (thru 4/28). Some picks:

C. Wonder – 25% off all full-priced monogrammed gifts (thru 4/29).

J.Crew – 25% off every purchase with code SPRINGBEST (thru 4/28).

Last Call (Neiman Marcus) - 35% off one regular-priced item with instant in-cart savings (thru 4/28). Extra 30% off accessories & gifts (thru 4/30).

LOFT – 40% off everything with code NOW40.

Saks Fifth Avenue - Friends & Family: 25% off selections of apparel, shoes & accessories. 20% off jewelry. Use code FRNFAM2 (thru 4/28). Discount eligible items include Alice + Olivia (how cute are those shorts!?) and Kate Spade (love the Licorice pump).

The Outnet - Extra 30% off “Luxe Tailoring” items.

Happy shopping!

Disclosure - Purchasing through the links in this post may yield commissions for AlterationsNeeded.com. See the Alterations Needed Disclosure for more details.

Winter white…meet spring black. I’m in this transitional period of celebrating the arrival of spring by reaching for white jeans, while still clutching onto my wardrobe favorites, which happen to be fall pieces and colors.

A few weekends ago, the boyfriend and I went to Atlanta to visit some friends. We did little more than eat, drink, and eat some more. Atlanta…you’ve got some GREAT food!

While in Atlanta, I fell in love with the way the young men are re-interpreting the style of the “southern gentleman”.  Tailored blazers and vests are worn over gingham or linen shirts in cheeky colors. Young guys grabbing lunch before heading back to the office were in fitted cotton trousers and loafers with no socks. It’s a little retro, a little bit hipster, but so amazingly “southern”. I found myself really inspired to veer heavily back towards the masculine and play with summer fabrics again.

In between meals, we had time to check out the boutiques Ann Mashburn and Sid Mashburn. After admiring what Ann Mashburn had to offer, we wandered into Sid Mashburn and…oh my…I’ve only seen such things on The Sartorialist before. First of all, the sales associates are impeccably dressed in immaculately tailored clothing. Second, there are impeccably dressed tailors hovering over sewing machines as they immaculately tailor said clothing. Atlanta ladies…if you love well-dressed boys, you must stop in, if only for quick glimpses of eye-candy.

While at Sid Mashburn, I fell in love with these belts made out of the same silks and wools as their ties. As it turned out, the size small was perfect for me, and I couldn’t resist taking a few home. The one I’m wearing here is a grey striped wool flannel.

And one more photo: here is Clinton doing one of his two tricks…standing for a treat. Except I tricked him and didn’t have a treat, so he ran off again shortly after this.

Outfit details – Aritzia blazer :: LOFT shirt :: Blank jeans :: Kate Spade shoes :: Sid Mashburn belt :: Banana Republic pocket square :: Valentino handbag :: J.Crew necklace :: Stella & Dot bracelet (c/o) :: Kate Spade watch

Altered – LOFT shirt has been slimmed :: Blank jeans have been hemmed & the ankle slimmed :: Kate Spade watch has had the strap replaced

Wedges are big for the summer (aren’t they always, though?) and I like the curved, slenderish heel on this one.  It’s available in black, silver, and gold; I love the gold the most.  The shoes are $59.99 at Amazon. Aerosoles Women’s Bronze Age Wedge Sandal

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The post Weekend Open Thread appeared first on Corporette.com.

- Angie at YouLookFab knows the secret to scrunched sleeves.
- Wow, I think this is the most-liked thing on the Corporette Facebook page, ever: an amusing essay at Jezebel from a woman tired of being told she “doesn’t have to dress up” for work.
- SheFinds brainstorms how to make your clothes last longer.
- I’m not sure I can conceive of an office where shorts are OK (except a very creative one) but if yours is that rare exception, Budget Babe tells you how to wear shorts to work. (And they’re all very short shorts!)  Speaking of creative offices: Lucky Magazine advises how to dress for an interview with both a creative boss and a conservative hiring office.
- POPSUGAR Smart Living ponders when to accept a LinkedIn request.
- Lifehacker asks the age-old question: should you pay down student debt, or invest your money? (We had a similar discussion about when to save versus when to pay down debt.)

On to the survey!  The survey is still open, but I am closing the giveaway today.  Of 3,344 entries, the lucky number (chosen by Random.org) was 2302 — I have contacted the reader whose email address appeared in that row of the Excel spreadsheet of survey responses.  Thank you guys so much for reading and for taking the survey! Some fun factoids for you:

• 35.7% of you are ages 28-32; the next largest grouping is 25.8% of you ages 23-27.
• 51.3% of you are married or in a civil union, and 74.7% of you have no kids
• 83.1% of you work full time; of those of you who work full time 32.2% of you make over $100K.
• 50.2% of you have a JD, or are in the midst of attaining it
• On the satisfaction scale, most of you are really happy with your job on the intellectual/money/emotion/life balance fronts, with “it’s great” being the most common answer.
• 35.4% of you spent $151-$300 on clothes last month (with 2.4% of you spending more than $1K).

On a personal note, to everyone who left SUCH NICE COMMENTS — I’m verklempt.  I’m going to have to put those away for a rainy day. :)

Did we miss anything? Add ‘em here, or send them to news@corporette.com. Thank you!

The post Weekly News Update appeared first on Corporette.com.

Happy Friday! For your consideration: JC Penney has a number of really affordable silk blouses. Inexpensive silk blouses have their pluses and minuses, but given the trend right now for slightly sheer, drapey blouses, I have a feeling these would be right on point. I like the white one (with a white cami beneath it, of course), but there are a number of fun colors. The blouse was $40 but is now marked to $24 on sale; it’s available in misses, petites, and talls, sizes XS-XL. Worthington® Long-Sleeve 100% Silk Blouse

Seen a great piece you’d like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com.
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The post Frugal Friday’s TPS Report: Long-Sleeve 100% Silk Blouse appeared first on Corporette.com.

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Psst: Stuart Weitzman is just one of the brands readers swear by for comfort — check out the rest in The Corporette Guide to Comfortable Heels!

P.P.S. I’ll be forever grateful if you take the super short reader survey if you haven’t already!  The winner of the giveaway will be chosen by 2PM ET tomorrow, 5/17.

The post Coffee Break: Platswoon Pumps appeared first on Corporette.com.

I work at a company where there are no strict guidelines to what we should wear. Most days, we are fine wearing casual to business casual. Even with my position as a forecasting specialist, i am not requested to wear something more formal. Jeans with a formal top or a dress are my go-to when we are requested to wear something more presentable. However, I am applying for a supervisory position and have start wearing more formal clothes, specially because I need to be at my best. What is the most appropriate clothing that I could look presentable enough but won’t look like I’m trying hard to impress people? Slacks don’t really fit me well – tiny gal with longer torso. Thanks!

We’ve talked about how to look professional in a laid-back office, how to transition your wardrobe from a very conservative workplace to a more casual office,  as well as how to look professional without being overdressed, but we haven’t talked, directly, about how to step up your wardrobe when you want to be seen as more managerial.  I’m particularly interested to hear what the readers say here.  For my own $.02, this is how I would approach it:

- Buy a black or gray suit.  Yep, I went there. I say this not because you need to wear a suit, but because the pieces that I’m going to recommend you start to add to your wardrobe are all pieces of a suit — nicer pencil skirts, nicer sheath dresses, nicer blazers — and your first few purchases may as well just be suiting separates that all match each other (particularly because it’s a waste of time to try to make a suit out of different fabrics).  There are a number of inexpensive suiting options out there for women; in this case I would recommend buying matching suit separates such as a sheath dress, pencil skirt, and a matching blazer.  Check out the EDV line at Macy’s — I’m a fan of the AK Anne Klein suiting separates, but there are also suiting separates from Calvin Klein and others.  If you are really uncomfortable with the concept of a suit, let’s compromise and say you buy a ponte knit suit (like the one pictured in pink above).   Now that you have a suit, you’re all ready for the interview you’ll be getting soon — but more importantly you have some building blocks to work with, like a blazer, a pencil skirt, and a sheath dress.  Even wearing the pieces as separates will step up your game.

- Ditch the jeans.  I like jeans as much as the next person, and maybe there are occasions where your jeans are the only appropriate thing to wear.  But if you can’t wear a dress or skirt (or trousers) instead, at least wear your black or gray blazer with jeans.  (Again, a ponte knit blazer or a sweater blazer is a great way to make a transition.)

- If you feel weird ditching jeans entirely, wear structured denim pieces instead.  If you feel too “dressy” not wearing jeans, try adding a chambray or denim fitted top with trousers.  Alternately, I’ve had fitted denim jackets that I’ve worn to death on top of sheath dresses, such as this one from 9 & Co., available at JC Penney for $50.

- Sleekify your look.  That may sound odd, but I think overall, “sleek” is a good goal in a lot of places, such as shoes, hair, makeup, and accessories.  Opt for the skinnier heels in your wardrobe, the simpler earrings, the controlled hairstyle.  I’m not saying you have to wear 4.5″ Louboutin heels and get a weekly blowout, but I am saying that if you normally wear comfortable/frumpy/funky shoes and have slightly out-of-control hair, go for a skinny kitten heel or a sleek flat and try to pull your hair back into a neat ponytail, bun, or other easy, work-appropriate up-do.

- Wear a watch.  There are a million little things you can do to seem more professional, but I think adding a watch (even an inexpensive one) is a great outward way of showing you’re responsible.  As a bonus, it avoids that awkward moment where you need to fumble in your purse for your cell phone if someone asks the time.

 Readers, how do you step up your outfits when you’re hoping for a promotion or raise — particularly in a business casual office?

The post How to Step Up Your Working Wardrobe appeared first on Corporette.com.

Zara has a number of cute blazers right now. Particularly, I’m lusting over this fun green jacquard blazer (as well as this wide-striped blazer). I’d wear the green jacquard blazer to work with black, gray, white, or navy, and accent with purples or brighter blues. The blazer is definitely a bit of a statement piece, but I could see it being great for networking cocktail parties. It’s $99 at Zara. JACQUARD BLAZER

Seen a great piece you’d like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com.
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The post Thursday’s TPS Report: Jacquard Blazer appeared first on Corporette.com.

Summer tweed never totally makes sense to me (can we come up with a different name for it, at least?), but despite that, I’m liking this navy and white tweed suit from Ann Taylor. I like the looser fit to the jacket (it’s almost got a ’50s vibe to it, doesn’t it?) and the two button closure, and I like that it’s lined. It’s available, online only, in sizes 00-18, regular and petites; the jacket (Two Button Tweed Jacket) is $168, and the skirt (Tweed Pencil Skirt) is $88.

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The post Suit of the Week: Ann Taylor appeared first on Corporette.com.

One year ago…

• How to Make the Most of Your Productive Times
• Backhanded Compliments at the Office
• Asking the Adjunct Professor For Help Networking
• What to Wear to Officiate a Wedding
• Should You Bring a Brag Book to Interviews?

Two years ago…

• What to Wear to a Tropical Conference
• The Corporette Guide to The Best Layering Tops
• How to Stay Productive During Your First Trimester of Pregnancy
• What to Pack in Your Office Gym Bag (and What to Wear to Work Out With Coworkers)
• Where to Stash Your Emergency Fund Money
• What Shoes Are Off Limits For Your Office?

Three years ago…

• How to Enjoy Your Vacation (and Leave Work Behind!)
• What Color Is Your Power Lipstick?
• How to Be a Great Worker
• False Eyelashes — and the Office?
• The Corporette Guide to Minimizing Wear and Tear on Heels

Four years ago…

• What jewelry do you wear to the office?
• How seriously do you have to take the “dry clean only” warning?
• How Doable is the Untucked Shirt with Jacket?
• What to Wear to a Sailing Event in Mid-May?

The post Previously, on Corporette… appeared first on Corporette.com.

It’s still a bit chilly for linen (at least here in NYC!) but I’m sure the summer heat will be upon us before we know it — and when it happens you’ll be glad if you have a linen blazer in your closet. I particularly like the fact that there’s a print on this one — better to hide the wrinkles! — and I like the print in general, which seems fun without being crazy. I’d wear it on top of navy or white dresses, or, for some reason, other vibrant colors; wearing it with either black or pastels seems wrong. It was $129, but today is marked to $105 at Macy’s. Calvin Klein Jacket, Printed Linen Blazer

Seen a great piece you’d like to recommend? Please e-mail tps@corporette.com.
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The post Wednesday’s TPS Report: Printed Linen Blazer appeared first on Corporette.com.

Psst: The Beauty.com Friends & Family sale is on also — take 20% off your purchase, including lots of good supplies like hairbrushes and blowdryers.

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It’s no secret that the Sephora MicroSmooth Baked collection of blushes, bronzers and highlighters rocks- every single product I’ve tried with the baked formula has been incredible! I was so excited to see that this summer, Sephora threw them all together in a single compact to create these Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Sculpting Trios ($20 USD / $23 CAD)- available in four shade varities.  Each compact is divided into three equal parts, featuring a matte bronzer, a satin blush and a shimmery highlighter.

Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Sculpting Trio in Sweet

Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Sculpting Trio in Sweet

Note the size

I might be a little biased, but this compact in Sweet is totally the best one (I haven’t tried the others, but these three shades are just so perfect)! When I first saw the compact, I was scared it was going to be shimmer city- but after close inspection, I noticed that the powders actually had different textures (yes!!!) which is exactly what you want from these three products.  The bronzer is a deep golden bronze (a tad on the warm side), the blush is a beautiful mid-tone rose and the highlighter is a pale champagne pink.

The pigmentation is lovely, the texture is smooth and blendable and all three shades work in such beautiful harmony. The only thing I’d change about this compact would be the proportions of the powders- I would have liked to see 1/2 of the pan dedicated to the bronzer (which is a little hard to grab with a large fluffy brush) and 1/4 to each the blush and highlighter, of which much less is needed anyways. Either way, the value is incredible and it’s a good start.

This product would make for an excellent travel buddy- taking the place of bronzer, blush and highlighter all in a compact that can fit in your pocket.

Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Sculpting Trio in Sweet

Swatches (L-R) Highlighter, Blush & Bronzer

Wearing the Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Sculpting Trio in Sweet (Bronzer all over, blush on apples & highlighter on cheekbones)

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | No comment | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: Reviews
Tags: Blush, Bronzer, Cheeks, Face, Highlighter, Makeup, Sephora, Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Sculpting Trio in Sweet, Sephora Summer 2013, Summer 2013

I feel like someone I know is always on a detox- whether its a juice cleanse all the way to a new way of clean eating, detoxifying is something that makes us feel and function much better. There’s no denying the amount of chemicals that we ingest is alarming, so cleaning our system out from the inside seems to always lead to a healthier and happier daily functioning. While cleansing from the inside has incredible benefits on the skin, it’s also to focus in on the importance of detoxifying from the outside. Every day, billions of toxins accumulate at the heart of our largest organ, our skin, and ozone and UV rays exacerbate the problem. The results? Suffocation of skin cells leading to cellular damage made evident by dull, fatigued skin.

Dior’s Capture Totale One Essential line is all about detoxifying skin from an external standpoint. The line is formulated with 21 active ingredients to detoxify, regenerate and boost skin to breathe life and radiance into the complexion. Whether you’re bracing city pollution, stressing out from jet lag or spending too much time in the sun, the Dior Capture Totale line can help to detoxify from the outside, while you detoxify on the inside. The line includes the One Essential Skin Boosting Serum, the Eyes Essential Serum and the new One Essential Ultra Detox Treatment Mask, all available now at Dior retailers.

Dior Capture Totale One Essential Skin Boosting Super Serum ($95 USD / $100 CAD for 30mL and $120 USD / $125 CAD for 50mL )

Dior Capture Totale Eyes Essential Serum ($70 USD / $85 CAD)

Dior Capture Totale One Essential Ultra-Dextox Treatment Mask ($95 USD / $100 CAD)

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | No comment | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: New Products
Tags: Dior, Dior Capture Totale Eyes Essential, Dior Capture Totale One Essential Serum, Dior Capture Totale One Essential Ultra Detox Treatment Mask, Dior Summer 2013, Eye Treatments, Eyes, Face, Masks, Serum, Skincare, Summer 2013

Brand new this season from Bobbi Brown comes a new lip color formulation that delivers an effortless wash of color and nourishing shine- the Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color ($25 USD / $29 CAD) is available in 14 beautiful shades, from soft neutrals to bright pops of color to deep, sultry shades. The new lip color comes in a sleek, shiny black tube with a slant-tip bullet for that quick & easy application.

Bobbi Brown has been one of my favorite brands for a long time, so I always get new excited when she launches a new product- I just have to try it! These sheer lip colors sounded pretty intriguing, claiming to be ‘fool-proof’ and so easy to apply you don’t even need a mirror. While I do love my full coverage lip colors, it is nice to have a couple sheers in the collection (especially in the purse) for a quick and easy tint of color. I prefer sheer colors, especially when it comes to deep and dark shades, because I feel a little more comfortable knowing a tiny smudge will be a cinch to clean up.

Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Colors in (L-R) Peachy, Bobbi & Pink Blossom

Note the size & packaging

The shades I have include Peachy, a shimmering golden peach, Bobbi, a nude brown and Pink Blossom, a coral red. All three colors are stunning and very wearable… but there’s just one problem here.

They’re not sheer at all.

You would think with “Sheer” being right in the name, that these lip colors would glide on with almost just a tint of color… perhaps like a tinted lip balm. These lipsticks are more pigmented than some medium-coverage lipsticks I own! I was quite surprised with how much of a full-coverage finish they had, especially Pink Blossom.

All things considered, they are awesome lipsticks… I love the color range, the texture and the glossy finish. They still are quite easy to apply and feel very comfortable on the lips- so I do like them. For those searching for a sheer tinted lipbalm-like lip color, you’re definitely not going to find them here. You’ll find a lovely lipstick, but not a sheer one. If I had to compare them to a MAC texture, I’d say they are comparable to a Lustre finish.

These lipsticks left me feeling a bit confused- I loved them, but not for what they were trying to claim to be. I guess that doesn’t really matter in the end if you’re a fan of them- but just be warned!

Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Colors in (L-R) Peachy, Bobbi & Pink Blossom

Swatches (L-R) Peachy, Bobbi & Pink Blossom

Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color in Peachy

Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color in Bobbi

Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color in Pink Blossom

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | No comment | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: Reviews
Tags: Bobbi Brown, Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color in Bobbi, Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color in Peachy, Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Color in Pink Blossom, Bobbi Brown Sheer Lip Colors, Bobbi Brown Summer 2013, Lip Color, Lips, Makeup, Summer 2013

Are you the ultimate beauty addict? See if you can guess what this product is! Can you get the brand name, product type, product name and the season or collection it was released in? If you can, you’re officially a makeup maven! Check out the answer below, and let me know if you were right!

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | 2 comments | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: Guessing Game
Tags: Guessing Game

If I could eat any beauty product, it would be this delicious-scented body butter. The Soap & Glory Butter Yourself ($20 USD / $20 CAD) is a new ultra-hydrating moisturizer containing exfoliating AHAs and scented with the brand’s signature Fruitigo scent; available now.

Soap & Glory Butter Yourself

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | One comment | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: Daily Beauty
Tags: Bath & Body, Body Butter, Soap & Glory, Soap & Glory Butter Yourself

I might be slightly biased towards pink things… being my favorite color, I’m automatically drawn to them. Hot pink, pale pink… doesn’t matter. They just seem to catch my eye! So you can imagine how tough it was to sort through my favorite pink pretties to pull together some of my favorite fragrances, skincare, makeup and bath & body products of the season all with one thing in common- pink. Check out these six fabulously feminine beauty buys for summer, and as always… think pink!

Featured Products

• Lise Watier Blush-On Powder in Rose Éclat: The India Gold Collection for Summer 2013 from Lise Watier is absolutely stunning all around, but this blush in particular grabbed my eye. The soft rose hue is so universally flattering, and it blends flawlessly for a lit-from-within glow that looks totally natural. The blush that everyone needs!
• Neutrogena Oil-Free Cleansing Wipes Pink Grapefruit for Acne-Prone Skin: These oil-free cleansing wipes are going to be perfect for summer, when oily skin runs rampant and you want to use as little makeup as possible. Keep your complexion feeling and looking fresh with these anti-acne wipes that remove makeup in a snap and have the most incredible, naturally-derived pink grapefruit scent that you’ll easily become addicted to!
• EOS Shave Cream in Pomegranate Raspberry: If you haven’t tried EOS Shave Cream, you’re missing out. These is the thickest, most luxurious and intensely moisturizing shaving cream I’ve ever used! You can even shave dry because it’s that hydrating. The super thick cream also smells divine and comes in a couple different varieties.
• LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant in Vanilla Grapefruit: Apparently my skin is sensitive all over, because since I noticed that my armpits began to itch throughout the day, I switched over to this all natural deodorant and I haven’t looked back since. Not only does it smell wonderful, but it has this awesome cooling feeling that I actually look forward to every time I go to apply it. It works just as well as any chemical-laden deodorant I’ve tried, but I feel much better (and less itchy) when using it!
• Ralph Lauren & Essie Big Pony #2 Fragrance & Nail Polish: A match made in beauty heaven- Ralph Lauren has joined forces with Essie this summer to offer these adorable Pig Pony Fragrance & Essie Nail Polish duos- my favorite out of the four incredible scents? The pink one, of course. #2 is flirty, floral and fruity- perfect for the warmer months ahead (and the matching nail polish is sure to make a pedicure appearance too).
• Dior Addict Lip Glow Color Reviver Gloss: Ever at a loss for which lipgloss to go for? Want to find the perfect shade for you? Look no further than this gloss! The best selling lip balm is now a gloss that reacts to the humidity of your lips to deliver a perfect, rosy glow that suits you perfectly!

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | One comment | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: Articles
Tags: Bath & Body, Blush, Cheeks, Cleansing Wipes, Deodorant, Dior, Dior Addict Lip Glow, Dior Summer 2013, EOS, EOS Shave Cream in Pomegranate Raspberry, Essie, Face, Fragrance, Lavanila, Lavanila The Healthy Deodorant in Vanilla Grapefruit, Lise Watier, Lise Watier Blush-On Powder in Rose Eclat, Lise Watier India Gold Collection for Summer 2013, Lise Watier Summer 2013, Makeup, Nail Polish, Nails, Neutrogena, Neutrogena Oil-Free Cleansing Wipes Pink Grapefruit for Acne-Prone Skin, Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren & Essie Pig Pony Duo #2, Shaving Cream, Skincare, Summer 2013, What's Hot

The Butter London Summer Holiday Collection for Summer 2013 includes six Butter London Nail Lacquers ($15 USD / $17.50 CAD) in a blazing summer hues and sparkling textures. This limited edition collection is available now from Butter London.

Butter London nail polishes are a “3-Free” formula, meaning they are free of Formaldehyde, Toluene and DBP. They have the signature rectangular packaging with a pop-off black cap and standard nail polish brush which applies the product nicely. I love how this collection features such a great variety of shades and textures, yet is still small and simplistic. All of the shades work together to create a summer story- from blazing hot oranges to cool aqua waters all the way to dazzling metallics, this collection features unique colors and beautiful textures.

Butter London Nail Lacquers in (L-R) Champers, Bobby Dazzler & Bit Faker

Butter London Nail Lacquers in (L-R) Poole, Sunbaker & Marbs

The shades include:

• Champers: Metallic rose champagne
• Bobby Dazzler: Opaque silver chrome
• Bit Faker: Bronze glitter
• Poole: Creamy, Robin’s egg blue
• Sunbaker: Rusty orange shimmer
• Marbs: Yellow gold shimmer

Despite the variety of texture in the collection, from creams to shimmers to glitters to metallics, all of the nail polishes applied with ease and were opaque with only two coats (even the glitter polish)! I’m happy to see such consistency throughout all of the different shades. Even though I prefer a wide brush applicator, I found that they were fairly easy to apply and each had the perfect viscosity for a great finish. These nail lacquers last about 2-3 days on me without chipping, which is the average for a standard nail polish.

It’s hard to choose a favorite from the collection, because I like them all for different reasons, but if I had to- I’d say that Champers stole my heart. While it looks very much like a rose gold in the bottle, it goes on with more of a pale champagne color on the nails… that, along with the gorgeous shimmery texture makes it a must-have for the hot summer season.

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Champers

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Bobby Dazzler

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Bit Faker

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Poole

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Sunbaker

Butter London Nail Lacquer in Marbs

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | No comment | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: Reviews
Tags: Butter London, Butter London Collections, Butter London Nail Lacquer in Bobby Dazzler, Butter London Nail Lacquer in Tea With The Queen, Butter London Summer 2013, Butter London Summer Holiday Collection for Summer 2013, Nail Polish, Nails, Summer 2013

This Summer, Dior has launched a brand new BB Cream formula. The Dior Diorskin Nude BB Creme ($44 USD / $48 CAD) is available in four shades and provides the benefits of both skincare and makeup in a fresh, lightweight formula. While Dior may be one of the last brands to jump on the BB bandwagon (some brands are onto CC creams and even DD creams now.. what!?) I think that it’s better late than never, and even more so when it’s a stellar formula. I recently reviewed the limited-edition Dior Diorskin Nude Tan BB Creme from the Summer 2013 collection here, however this complexion perfector is available in the permanent range for Dior and I have two words to say about that- thank goodness!

I’m quite picky when it comes to a BB Cream- I don’t like seeing brands slap on the “BB” label hoping to drive sales on what is simply a regular tinted moisturizer. I’ve been a fan of traditional BB Creams for a while, so I look for a more luxurious, quality product that truly benefits skin while providing decent coverage of imperfections. It really should be an all-in-one solution for everyday makeup, and this formula does just that.

Dior Diorskin Nude BB Creme

Dior Diorskin Nude BB Creme

I’ve been playing with two shades, 002 Fair and 003 Medium, of which the former matches me perfectly now and I’m looking forward to using the latter shade this summer when I get a bit of a tan. The product comes in a tube with a pump dispenser; be careful to choose the correct shade though because all of the tubes are the same color and only designate the different shade on the back of the tube where the number is labeled (I would have liked to see the tube actually representing the color difference… makes it easier to pick out which shade is which in an instant).

The texture is lovely; smooth and creamy. It really feels like a foundation to me… a very lightweight, breatheable foundation. Even though Dior claims the product to have sheer coverage, I found the pigmentation to be better than some medium-coverage foundations I’ve tried in the past, and certainly better than some nearly invisible BB Creams I’ve tried. It truly did perfect my entire complexion, leaving me with only a bit of touching up with concealer under my eyes (exactly what I want a BB cream to do).  It blended beautifully on my skin and looks completely natural! Even when I get up close to my mirror, my skin looks healthy, hydrated and glowing.

I did find that I needed to set the product with some powder as it was quite moisturizing (if you have super dry skin, you probably won’t have to do this though). I can even skip my moisturizer and just use this product for all-day hydration and comfort. Once again, exactly what a BB Cream is supposed to do. The only thing that I didn’t enjoy too much was the strong fragrance… while it did disappear in a few minutes, it was a bit overwhelming and I just dislike fragrance in general when it comes to facial skincare and cosmetics.

This BB Cream takes the ranking as one of my top three BB Creams, alongside the Bobbi Brown BB Cream and the Tarte BB Cream.

The pump dispenser

Dior Diorskin Nude BB Creme, Swatched: 002 Fair (left) & 003 Medium (right)

Bare skin (left) / Wearing the Dior Diorskin Nude BB Creme in 002 Fair

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | 2 comments | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: Reviews
Tags: BB Cream, Dior, Dior Diorskin Nude BB Cream, Dior Diorskin Nude BB Creme in 002, Dior Diorskin Nude BB Creme in 003, Dior Summer 2013, Face, Foundation, Makeup, Summer 2013

When I say purple lipstick, I really mean lavender or violet lipstick, because I’m not one to wear bright or dark purple lips. I much prefer a pale lavender shade, something a little on the pink side, so that it looks more wearable. Even though they may look scary in the tube, I’m amazed at how gorgeous they look on the lips! My favorite is the Revlon Lip Butter in Gumdrop, because it has a sheer but buildable color payoff (which is essential for a fool-proof application) and a glossy finish. I also really love MAC Pink Popcorn, but it was limited edition.

What’s your top pick for Purple Lipstick?

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | 2 comments | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: Top Picks
Tags: Top Picks

Could the new Hourglass Nº 28 Lip Treatment Oil ($42 USD / $49 CAD) be the most luxurious lip treatment ever with its ultra-luscious conditioning formula and even a 24K gold-plated tip? I think so.

Hourglass Nº 28 Lip Treatment Oil

Copyright © Beautezine, 2013. | Original Post | 2 comments | Twitter | Facebook
Categories: Daily Beauty
Tags: Hourglass, Hourglass Nº 28 Lip Treatment Oil, Lip Balm, Lips, Makeup, Skincare

Top manicurists have known about pro top coats for years – those specially formulated clear coats that left lacquer intact for an extended wear manicure. Compatible with nearly every brand, topcoats like INM and Seche Vite give shiny, rock hard results.  Now, there are number of launches for those that like to do their nails at home and mimic a faster drying salon service. Each has a different strength. Let’s check a few of them out, shall we? 

The Consumer Brands
Straight to market products

DAZZLE DRY
This line boasts a dry time of 5 minutes (although you do need a dry base coat before you begin, so factor that in for a still amaze fast dry time)
Pros: Sold as system;  100+ color choices; incredible high shine
Cons: Sold as system; sweet chemical smell; must follow as directed for best results

JULEP
Freedom Polymer Top Coat also boasts 5 minute dry time due to “unique, light curing formula” (which means you can dry by sunlight).
Pros: Topcoat compatible with other lines of polish, slick looking black packaging protects product from natural UV exposure
Cons: The saying “Freedom ain’t free” also applies here: $18 for .27 fluid ounces

Pro to Consumer Offerings
Available for purchase or as a service from select beauty professionals

CND VINYLUX
Vinylux Weekly Nail Polish has an 8.5 minute total dry time and is natural light curing (no UV lamp required).
Pros: 30 of the 62 colors match existing CND Shellac colors; sold as a system with fast drying Vinylux polish; no base coat required
Cons: Sold as a system; most colors look best with three coats; as this is a polish, it is shiny but will not be as shiny as Shellac

CND Vinylux design by Hillary Fry (solessence)

Cuccio Colours
With a high gloss polymer top coat in the collection, it is actually the polishes themselves that are the foundation for fast drying fingers
Pros: 60 + colors match the Cuccio Colours Veener (sog) collection; highly pigmented one coat application; silky, easy glide application
Cons: While Cuccio is a worldwide brand, these new releases are currently only available at shows and online

Have you tried any of these topcoats or polishes? What do you turn to when you need a long lasting quick fix?

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*Disclosure

Now that you have a general idea of what a miserable task combing my hair post-shower is,  please let me introduce to you my new best friend. It’s a Detangle and Defrizz Conditioning Leave-In Mist ($12) from Verb and it’s like magic. No seriously, I’m in love. Detanglers meant for little kids that are sold at drugstores don’t do anything for my knotting. This magic potion however it’s truly amazeballs. (That’s the only word that felt appropriate.) 

No parabens, no sulfates, no gluten … the formula does an incredible job of moisturizing, defrizzing, smoothing, and best of all detangling. Actually, it does a little more than that too. If you’re someone who usually uses a heat protectant and shine serum, you can technically skip those steps if you’re using this mist because it’s got you covered all on fronts.

On days when you’re still reaching for a little something more after using the detangling mist, Verb has a rockin’ line of products that my hair is currently loving. So here’s my new routine. The detangling mist is my #1 MUST post-shower. If I could only choose one hair product for the rest of my life, it would be this detangler. It does the job, plus some. I spray the conditioning mist after my hair has been toweling drying for a few minutes and then I comb it out. (It still amazes me every time that I can get a comb through my hair with ease.)

I’ve also been using Verb’s Full Body Weightless Lift Volume Spray $14. No matter how many layers or blowouts I get, my hair insists on being flat on top. This spray is helping to lift the roots and give me a bit more movement on top.  And finally, for a little shine, Verb has the most incredible Ghost Oil ($14). Argan and Moringa oils … it’s a really light, weightless smoothing oil that feels like a magic serum full of nutrients. Many oils tend to leave a greasy residue, but this one left a pinch of shine and no funky film. Another winner from Verb.

Verb’s Detangle+Defrizz Conditioning Leave-In Mist is a game changer. A MUST if you have easily knotted hair like mine that’s a disaster to try and comb out after a shower. Great for kids too! It smells great and works like magic. I can’t put my finger on what exactly it smells like, but it’s pleasant and light. I’m a fan!

Have you tried any of Verb’s hair care products?

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We’ve written about coffee ground products like Gail’s DIY Coffee Scrub or isola Jamaican Coffee & Sugar Scrub, that are said to help minimize the appearance of cellulite due to the caffeine. Now there is another product system that helps to target cellulite while you also lose weight. It’s from Delfin Spa and the system is their Bio Ceramic shorts used in conjunction with their Anti-Cellulite cream.

Since I have both weight I need to lose and plenty of cellulite, I decided to give the shorts and cream a try.

In a nutshell, the way the Bio Ceramic lined neoprene shorts work is to contain your body heat while you work out. The result is targeting the areas where the shorts cover (for me that was slightly above my belly button down to my knees–basically where the majority of my cellulite is) to create an evenly distributed heat source that helps you to sweat out more toxins and aid in weight loss. I’ve seen friends in the fitness industry wrap their abs with plastic wrap to generate the same effect, but the Delphin Spa Bio Ceramic Shorts are a lot more attractive and a lot less messy. 

Prior to putting on the Bio Ceramic Shorts, you apply Delphin Spa’s Anti-Cellulite Cream which is comprised of algae, green tea, and caffeine; all know to help tighten skin and visibly reduce the appearance of cellulite. The cream is thin in texture and has a nice, fresh scent. It’s not greasy and quickly absorbs into skin.

Just for the record, you can never get rid of cellulite. However, products, such as what Delphin Spa offers, can help you to minimize the appearance of it.

Applying the Anti-Cellulite Cream in conjunction to wearing the shorts is supposed to help deliver the cream deeper into the layers of your skin as the heat is generated. Although I’m unclear how you sweat out toxins but the cream delves into the skin at the same time. Wouldn’t everything be sweated out?

I’m not a skin care expert, so if you know the science to how that works, do leave a comment.

The shorts are comfortable and I wore them with just a t-shirt rather than wearing any other workout gear over the shorts (which look and feel like dive suit material.) They conformed to my body and didn’t really need to be adjusted, however, I was only using the treadmill so I’m unsure if a more rigorous workout would cause any shifting. A bit into my workout it did feel a bit warmer in the area covered by the shorts, and once I was done exercising and removed the shorts, I did not realize how much I had actually been sweating. It’s not that noticeable when the shorts are on, which is great to remain comfortable wearing them for a long amount of time, but I was amazed at how much I had been sweating once they are taken off.

I did notice that my skin was a lot softer and did have a smoother appearance each time I used the shorts and cream. The cellulite was not banished altogether, simply minimized in their appearance. Of course, if you don’t consistently use the Delphin Spa shorts and cream, the look of your cellulite will return to the way it looked before.

Have you tried this cellulite reduction system from Delfin Spa?

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!]]> http://www.agirlsgottaspa.com/2013/05/mom-get-glamorous-twitter-party/ This year we’re mixing things up with our Mom: Get Glamorous contest! We’re adding a Twitter party, where some of the great brands participating in the contest are also giving away products during our party. Come join us on May 15, 2013 from 1pm-2pm EST and tweet with @TheMakeupGirl @ClumpsofMascara @BryceGruber @15minbeauty and myself @agirlsgottaspa [...] http://www.agirlsgottaspa.com/?p=11847 Mon, 13 May 2013 13:00:06 +0000

This year we’re mixing things up with our Mom: Get Glamorous contest! We’re adding a Twitter party, where some of the great brands participating in the contest are also giving away products during our party.

Come join us on May 15, 2013 from 1pm-2pm EST and tweet with @TheMakeupGirl @ClumpsofMascara @BryceGruber @15minbeauty and myself @agirlsgottaspa so we can talk about the moms who inspire us most! Hashtag is #momglamorous

Products being given away during the party (US only):

Beautisol: (2) Tea Tan Glow and an application mitt ($33 value each) Follow them @Beautisol

CoverGirl:  (7) Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss ($38.43 total value) (Review of nail gloss here!) Follow them @CoverGirl

Beecology: (1) Hand & Body Cream, All Natural Body Wash, Pure & Natural Bar Soap and Lip Balm all in their lavender scent. ($31 total retail value) Follow them @Beecology

Ma Mi Skin Care: (1) Sunny Days Sunscreen Full Size and (1) Sunny Days Sunscreen Travel Size ($32 total retail value) Follow them @MaMiSkinCare

Feel free to RSVP with your Twitter handle in the comments!

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

A Girl’s Gotta Spa! and the above listed beauty bloggers are seeking nominations for moms across the U.S. who have overcome adversity, boldly negotiated impossible odds, triumphed over tragedy, went above and beyond or is a pillar of her community. Simply put: a woman of fortitude and strength, someone deserving of the recognition and undeniably in need of some pampering. Is this you? Do you know someone who fits the description? Then you have until May 24, 2013 to submit a nomination via our A Girl’s Gotta Spa! fan page and put her on our radar for an amazing prize package!

One very lucky mom will win $642-worth of beauty products: 

CoverGirl (Total retail value: $154.33): 3 LipPerfection Jumbo Gloss Balm ($22.47), 3 Queen Collection Jumbo Gloss Balm ($22.47), 1 Clump Crusher ($6.99), 1 LashBlast Volume Mascara ($7), 3 Eye Enhancer Kits ($12), 1 Cheekers Bronzer ($4), 1 Cheekers Blush ($4), 7 Outlast Nail Gloss ($38.43), 3 LiquilineBlast ($23.97) and 2 LipPerfection Lipcolors ($13). All products can be found at covergirl.com. (CoverGirl also has something going on for Mother’s Day! Share with CoverGirl beautiful lessons learned from your mom at Facebook.com/COVERGIRL.)

Beautisol (Total retail value: $189): 1 Summer Glow – 8oz Dark Body Lotion ($39), 1 Medium Self-Tanning Mousse ($29), 1 Tea Tan Glow – Wash Off Body Bronzer ($22.90), 2 Application Mitts ($8 each), 1 Deep Exfoliating Hammam Mitt ($12), 1 Go Slough Yourself ($19), 1 Exscrub Me face exfoliant and cleanser ($17), 1 Need I Glow More (either Normal to Dry or Normal to Oily) ($38.50)and 1 Back Applicator ($10). All products can be found at beautisol.com. (They have some amazing before and after photos!)

Beecology (Total retail value $152): 3 Hand & Body Cream ($12.99 each), 3 Body Wash ($8.99 each), 4 Lip Balm ($2.99 each), 8 Pure & Natural Bar Soap ($5.99 each), Sulfate-free Shampoo and Conditioner ($22.99). All products can be found at beecology.com. They also offer 30% off for first time orders!

Ma Mi Skin Care (Total retail value $147): 1 Reawaken Cleanser ($18), 1 Radiant Exfoliator ($23), 1 Satiated Moisturizer ($23), 1 Nightshift Eye Serum ($28), 1 Sunny Days Sunscreen Full Size ($22) and 1 Get Radical Antioxidant Serum ($33.) All products can be found at mamiskincare.com. (They are a fantastic natural skin care line!)

Contest Rules and How To Enter:

First, the person being nominated must absolutely 100% be a mom, age 18+ and a legal US resident. You can nominate yourself or nominate someone else. Your nomination must be a picture of the mom (with or without her kids), as well as a 600 word or less written nomination telling us why this mom is so amazing.

All entries are to be submitted via the Contest tab on the A Girl’s Gotta Spa! Facebook fan page. You must Like the page in order to have an eligible entry.

By entering the contest, should you (or the mom you nominate) be chosen as the winner, you are giving me the right to post this information and letter of nomination in the winning announcement on A Girl’s Gotta Spa! Contest that begins May 10, 2013 at midnight PST and taking submissions until May 24, 2013 midnight PST . A Girl’s Gotta Spa!, and our 4 guest beauty blogger judges will select the winning entry (1), which will be  announced on May 27, 2013. Retail value of the prize pack is $642.33. All products are brand new and unused and come “as is” without warranty. There are no cash or product substitutes. Only one nomination per person per household. If you enter more than once, you will be disqualified. I retain the right to revoke or cancel the contest and prizes without warning. Myself and the product sponsors are not liable if you do not like the products, if they cause an allergic reaction and the like. All information submitted via the app (email, etc.) will not be rented or sold by A Girl’s Gotta Spa! Previous winners are Jo Coiner Burzyki, Trina Davidson, Gerry Morrison and Aracelis. Are you next?

Stay tuned to learn more about our Twitter Party on May 15th at 1pm EST #momglamorous ! Details coming soon!

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

Nothing is better than a bouquet of flowers (peonies to be exact!) and the uplifting fragrance they can fill a room with.

Caress’ newest fine fragrance elixir is Tempting Whisper crafted of sophisticated floral notes of white peony, enhanced with fruity notes of red plum. The result is a beautiful medley of exotic blossoms at the peak of their bloom. It’s intoxicating. Tempting Whisper is inspired by the world of fine fragrance with a complex combination of fragrance notes created by top experts at fragrance house, Givaudan. 

I literally want this scent in a body lotion and perfume. It smells THAT good. The body wash lathers well and softens skin. The fragrance only lightly lingers on your skin post-shower for a brief amount of time, so savor how lovely your bathroom will smell when using it. I’ve also put it into a re-usable hand pump at my bathroom sink for hand washing (and then I find that I’m constantly smelling my hands!)

For only about $5, this is an affordable body wash you’ll want to have in your shower!

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

*Disclosure

When I first received this Senna Mineral Eyes Shadow Trio in Satin Doll in a Glossybox I wasn’t impressed. It wasn’t as pigmented as expected and really blended out too easily. I promptly put it in a drawer to be forgotten and there it sat sad and unused. Fast forward to the beginning of spring and you’ll find me digging through my stash for something exactly like this!

With all the awesome bright lip shades I’ve picked up lately I’ve been looking for a nice soft eye look to pair them with. Something easy and nothing fussy! This Senna trio in Satin Doll features a pale vanilla, light cool brown, & a rich shimmery chocolate.

Start with the lightest shade and sweep all over the lid. Blend up to the browbone. Take the medium shade and pop that in your outer corner creating a slight outer V. Because these shades are so soft you’ll want to be prepared not to over blend or else you’ll simply blend them away!

If you wear liner daily as I often do, go for something softer for daytime. I used Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner in Dark Brown which I absolutely love for days when black is too intense. I then topped it with the deepest shimmery shade to soften the line. If you use liner on the bottom waterline also stick to brown. Top your lashes with mascara and you’re ready to go!

Here I’m wearing Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Tutti Frutti. This look is so neutral you can go with any lip or cheek shade from pinks to oranges to the lovely lilac tones in this season!

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

*Disclosure

When Spry Living Magazine asked me if myself and two A Girl’s Gotta Spa! bloggers would be interested in making over our moms, we didn’t hesitate to say yes. Myself, Ashley and Hillary all participated in Spry Living’s Take Year’s Off Your Looks Instantly (web and print) story and Making Over Mom with tips.

Each of our moms had challenges that prevented them from updating their look. My mom had hair loss/thinning hair, sagging skin, etc. all related to bariatric surgery she had two years ago. Ashley’s mom has nerve damage and a disability when it comes to the use of her arm. Hillary’s mom was nervous since losing all of her hair so long ago (but it has since grown back.)

From skin care to hair care to makeup, here’s the breakdown of the products used to transformed our moms.

Paula (my mom):

Thank you to Maureen Barnes, Katie Dietrich and George Serrano-Velez at Breathe Salon and Day Spa
Hair: L’Oreal Professional Texture Expert Densite Thickening Primer Fine Hair
Primer: Hard Candy Sheer Envy and on eyes Cover FX Anti-Age Smoothing Eye Primer
Anti-aging products: Murad Sheer Lustre Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 15, then Freeze 24-7 Instant Targeted Wrinkle Treatment, Anti-Aging Eye Serum, and ArcticLift Firming Neck Cream.
Brows: Beauty Never Sleeps Bailey Cosmetics Ombre Camel eye shadow duo
Foundation: a mix of 810 and 825 of CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation
Concealer: Ben Nye
Powder: itcosmetics Anti-Aging Radiance Pressed Illuminating Powder
Blush: Beauty Never Sleeps Bailey Cosmetics Universal Blush
Eye Shadow: MAC Paint Pot Chilled on Ice, Smashbox Photo Op Enhancing Eye Palette in Softbox and Mirabella Cosmetics
Mascara: L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara
Lips: MAC Boldly Bare lip pencil and mark Coral Fixation
Clothes: JCPenney

Read my mom’s story: A New Look For A New Body

Beth (Ashley’s mom):

Thank you to Maureen Barnes and David Van Guilder at Breathe Salon and Day Spa. Ashley did her mom’s makeup for this makeover!
Primer: Hard Candy Sheer Envy and on eyes Cover FX Anti-Age Smoothing Eye Primer
Anti-aging products: Freeze 24-7 Instant Targeted Wrinkle Treatment, Anti-Aging Eye Serum, and ArcticLift Firming Neck Cream.
Brows: Beauty Never Sleeps Bailey Cosmetics Ombre Camel eye shadow duo
Foundation: 810 CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation mixed with MAC N30
Concealer: Ben Nye
Powder: itcosmetics Anti-Aging Radiance Pressed Illuminating Powder
Blush: MAC Bite of an Apple
Eye Shadow: MAC Paint Pot Chilled on Ice, Smashbox Photo Op Enhancing Eye Palettes Smokebox and Softbox
Mascara: Maybelline Mega Plush
Eyeliner: Maybelline Line Express in Soft Black
Highlighter: CoverGirl Champagne eye shadow
Bronzer: Sephora Aruba
Lips: MAC Boldly Bare lip pencil and Bare Escentuals Buxom in Sugar
Clothes and accessories: JCPenney

Read Beth’s story: Pain-Free Beauty

Sue (Hillary’s Mom):
Hair Color:  L’Oreal Feria Soft Black
Hair Treatments & Styling: Joico K-Pak, Moroccan Oil, Rusk w8less plus Hairspray
Face: Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream
Lips: L’Oreal Rouge Absolut Lipstick in Creme de Maron
Nails: Julep Freedom Top coat, China Glaze Keep Calm and Paint On mint Green
Clothes: Willi Smith at TJMaxx

Read Sue’s story: From Comfy to Chic

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!]]> http://www.agirlsgottaspa.com/2013/05/eyeko-mascara-wardrobe-review/ One of the first questions my best friend Sarah asks me when we see each other is always, “What kind of mascara are you using these days?” We bond over makeup and our lifelong quest for the perfect product … especially mascara. When I told her about the Eyeko Mascara Wardrobe, she was all ears. [...] http://www.agirlsgottaspa.com/?p=11862 Tue, 07 May 2013 13:00:30 +0000

One of the first questions my best friend Sarah asks me when we see each other is always, “What kind of mascara are you using these days?” We bond over makeup and our lifelong quest for the perfect product … especially mascara. When I told her about the Eyeko Mascara Wardrobe, she was all ears. I love to see what other ladies are into, so every couple of weeks I browse the Best Sellers section on Sephora.com. That’s where I first saw Eyeko’s Mascara Wardrobe. ($28) If it’s a best seller, my assumption is there’s got to be a lot to love!

What’s really cool about this is that it comes with 1 mascara, but 3 different brushes … for 3 different eyelash looks. In this set, you get the three-in-one conditioning formula with Carbon Black finish. A super glossy black mascara formula that’s extra-thick. (That means you only need 2 coats!) You also get three brushes to define, curl, and volumize.  The brushes are interchangeable, but only 1 can live in the mascara. The other two have their own containers for storing.

While I love the idea of having 3 different wands, there is a downside to this. There’s a good amount of upkeep that comes along with that. Since only 1 wand can live in mascara, the other 2 must be washed each time and put away. For me, that’s a hassle and a little too time consuming for busy mornings … but … I do have to say, depending on your mascara needs, it might be worth it. This is the perfect set for someone who travels a lot and likes to change up their makeup look daily. Personally, I can’t really see a difference in my lashes when I use the different brushes, but my best friend Sarah completely disagrees. Her lashes look totally different when she switches up her brush and uses a curl, define, or volume specific brush. My lashes curl naturally, so the curl brush doesn’t do much for me. After trying all three, I felt like the define brush gave me a good amount of volume. Define was definitely my favorite brush from the wardrobe.

Another notable thing I found about Eyeko’s mascara and that it really stays put once applied. If you are a gal that often rubs her eyes and ends up with mascara smeared all over her face, that’s not going to happen with Eyeko mascara. On the flip side, you could also say that’s kind of hard to remove, even with eye makeup remover. I like to see the glass half full, so I like the fact that it doesn’t flake  onto my cheeks or smudge.

Enriched with Shea butter and pro-vitamin B, the formula itself feels conditioning to your lashes. Also super important, it’s formulated without parabens, sulfates, or phthalates.

I have to say, there are more things to love about Eyeko’s Mascara Wardrobe than to hate. Cleaning the brushes after each use can be tedious, but the formula gets thumbs up. I must say … as I sit here typing this, hours after applying my makeup, I LOVE the fact that my lashes are soft and conditioned … opposed to brittle and flaky like other mascaras tend to make my lashes feel. Personally, I could do without the other two brushes and be 100% happy with Eyeko’s incredible formula applied with the define brush.

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!

eyeko

*Disclosure

Since surviving Melanoma, Amanda is a staunch advocate of sun safety and skin cancer prevention. So in an effort to increase awareness, she and I will be holding a 1-hour Twitter party on Monday, May 6 (which is also the designated Melanoma Monday) from 8pm-9pm EST. During the party, we’ll be speaking to skin cancer facts, tips for recognizing it, and sun safety. Some really great brands have jumped on board to make this party even better by donating products for giveaways!

We’ll be giving away: 

Mott 50: (1) Niki Infinity Scarf ($45)

Pevonia Botanica: (2) Ligne Soleil SPf 30 Hydrating Sunscreen ($44 each)

Sun Bum: (5) Sun Bum Flavored Lip Balms SPF 30 ($3.99 each), (1) Sun Bum Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion ($15.99) and (1) PRO Premium Endurance Sunscreen ($17.99)

Lumene: (3) Lumene Illuminating Anti-Age BB Cream with SPF 20 ($14.99) and (3) Lumene Pure Radiance Day Cream SPF 15 ($15.99)

We’ll be using the hashtag #MelanomaMonday and please follow us @agirlsgottaspa and @AmandaOnAir to participate. While the giveaways are US only, anyone can tweet with us to help raise awareness about skin cancer. Don’t forget to follow the brands too! @Mott50SPF @PevoniaBotanica @LumeneGal @trustthebum

The legalese for the giveaways: Open only to US residents, age 18+, no cash or product substitutes. Not responsible for lost product as it is being mailed directly from the PR agencies not A Girl’s Gotta Spa! Void where prohibited.

Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! for more beauty reviews! Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too!]]> http://www.eye4style.com/Around-Town-Rooftop-Edition-30525359 <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.eye4style.com/Around-Town-Rooftop-Edition-30525359"><img width="142" height="160" src="http://media4.onsugar.com/files/2013/05/16/993/n/1854510/spread_RNp1i6.large.jpg"/></a><div class="renderedspread" style=""></div><p><p>Spring has finally arrived in New York, and so, it's only fitting that this week has been resplite with rooftop events. I'm still on the mend from my broken wrist, so please forgive the abbreviated recap below - words are at a premium these days!</p> <p>Wednesday evening kicked off as few Wednesdays do - with a shower of sorts for bride-to-be and avid Twitterer Chrissy Teigen. Gillette Venus did up right for their longtime spokeswoman and also successfully kicked off 'shave season' with the introduction of their Gillette Venus &amp; Olay Sugarberry razor. It smells sweet and keeps legs exfoliated and ultra-smooth (it's hard not to be smooth with five blades in the mix), no shave cream required!</p> <p>Then it was off to the West Village to Too Faced's sweet Summer-themed event, complete with (spiked) Lemonade Stand (seen above) and petite classic summertime treats - think corn dogs and salt water taffy! Of course, Too Faced is best known for easy-to-use and high impact makeup, and the myriad of bronzers in their collection are definite summer essentials - particularly if you're like me and rapid about sun protection.</p> <p>Last but not least, my friends at MYHABIT kicked off summer and (more importantly), their Swim &amp; Sun-themed events in lifestyle, home, fashion and beauty with a poolside party downtown on the roof of the Hotel Americano. Swanky!</p> <p>Cheers to gorgeous weather, y'all!</p> http://www.eye4style.com/Around-Town-Rooftop-Edition-30525359 Thu, 16 May 2013 22:47:34 +0000 http://www.eye4style.com/Cast-System-5-Things-Ive-Learned-From-Broken-Wrist-30457458 <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.eye4style.com/Cast-System-5-Things-Ive-Learned-From-Broken-Wrist-30457458"><img width="160" height="160" src="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2013/05/10/706/n/1854510/2a51fd908e4d125e_Arm.large.jpg"/></a><p></p> <p>Last week, I was feeling particularly self-congratulatory after choosing to take the subway home - so frugal! - one night after a friend's birthday party instead of my usual cab. Congratulatory, that is, until a <em>very</em> hurried and thereby I am assuming very IMPORTANT man slammed into me abruptly on a subway staircase, knocking me down a flight of stairs, bruising my sternum and breaking my wrist in the process.</p> <p>My ER visit was miserable and the pain excruciating, of course, (I'm a big baby in part because I've never broken a bone at all), but if possible, the subsequent annoyances have been even greater. The large splint on my arm will stay put for at least two more weeks, in lieu of a cast, so I suppose I'm lucky in that capacity. But you try washing your hair, putting on a bra or typing on an actual keyboard with just one functioning arm, it's tragic. </p> <p>What I've learned along the way:</p> <p><strong>Patience is a virtue.</strong> I'm forced to acknowlege this mainly because doing even normal things, LIKE OH SAY CRAFTING THIS BLOG POST, now take me an eternity. Efficiency is what I miss most.</p> <p><strong>Some things are just better left to professionals.</strong> The nicest moment in my friendship with <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.beautybloggingjunkie.com/">Amber </a>happened this week- she handed me her emergency <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.thedrybar.com/"><strong>Drybar</strong></a> coaster (that's a gift card, for the uninitiated) and said "Here, you need this." And she was right (she also came up with the title of this blog post - thanks, A!) Bangs definitely require two hands. Even better if they are not my own.</p> <p><strong>Sleeves are the enemy.</strong> Seriously, good luck trying to put those on over an above-the-elbow splint. (So, don't neglect those tris, just in case.)</p> <p><strong>Few things in life are easier than a maxi dress. </strong>Particularly when fastenings are unmanageable and you're forced to shave with your non-dominant hand.</p> <p><strong>Lower lash mascara is just not that important. </strong>I'm lucky that I can put on tinted moisturizer, concealer, and highlighter - let me not push my luck.</p> http://www.eye4style.com/Cast-System-5-Things-Ive-Learned-From-Broken-Wrist-30457458 Fri, 10 May 2013 22:15:07 +0000 http://www.eye4style.com/Shop-Loeffler-Randall-Sample-Sale-30465051 <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.eye4style.com/Shop-Loeffler-Randall-Sample-Sale-30465051"><img width="130" height="160" src="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2013/05/10/640/n/1854510/4ef9708f1bb2b590_loeffler_randall_sample_sale.large.jpg"/></a><p></p> http://www.eye4style.com/Shop-Loeffler-Randall-Sample-Sale-30465051 Fri, 10 May 2013 14:22:27 +0000 http://www.eye4style.com/Shop-Bing-Bang-Sample-Sale-30420986 <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.eye4style.com/Shop-Bing-Bang-Sample-Sale-30420986"><img width="111" height="160" src="http://media3.onsugar.com/files/2013/05/07/005/n/1854510/95536f312ca97424_Bing_Bang_Sample_sale.large.jpg"/></a><p></p> http://www.eye4style.com/Shop-Bing-Bang-Sample-Sale-30420986 Tue, 07 May 2013 23:08:08 +0000 http://www.eye4style.com/Acca-Scuse-Me-AQUA-Cycling-Reviewed-30009618 <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.eye4style.com/Acca-Scuse-Me-AQUA-Cycling-Reviewed-30009618"><img width="160" height="114" src="http://media1.onsugar.com/files/2013/04/28/008/n/1854510/ef1c8527c65610f2_Screen_Shot_2013-04-28_at_7.12.11_PM.large.jpg"/></a><p></p> <p>When I told my friend <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://styleitonline.com">Sarah</a> earlier this week that I was planning to try something crazy called AQUACYCLING today, she quite snappily summed things up by responding: "Accu-scuse me?" </p> <p>It's understandable that you might be confused, but aquacycling as a phenomenon has existed in Europe long before the April 15 opening of <strong>AQUA</strong>, a luxury fitness studio in TriBeCa. AQUA's impossibly chic tri-level space boasts an airy entryway/check in, minimalist dark wood locker room and a 4' deep pool replete with 13 stationary bikes, submerged in the water to the handlebars. </p> <p>AQUA is one of those unusual spaces that feels more like a spa than a gym (I found it almost ironic that it's located directly next to <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.ancientbathsny.com"><strong>AIRE Ancient Baths</strong></a>, one of my favorite spa experiences in the city, in fact). That odd feeling continues even through the class itself, which despite being 45 minutes of almost exclusively cardio feels extraordinarily low impact, and even...therapeutic. Unlike a traditional cycling class, the water provides all of the resistance at AQUA, and as your pace becomes more intense, you almost feel as if you're being massaged by the water. Sprints and jumps are broken up by a brief abs section (yes, still in the pool - you anchor your feet to the handlebars and crunch) and some light arm work (no weights required). While today was my first time in the water, one of the women I took class with today swore up and down that she's experienced no soreness after taking AQUA classes 4 days in a row, and has felt remarkably energetic, and been sleeping better than ever. </p> <p>Classes at AQUA are, however, more expensive than classes at other boutique fitness studios (the current per-class norm seems to be $32-$37, while drop in classes at AQUA ring in at $40, with 5-30 class packages available at reduced rates). Insult is added to injury by the $2 fee rental fee for the rubber slip on shoes required for class. That said, I'll <em>certainly</em> be back - I left today's class feeling nothing short of exhilarated!</p> <p>Learn more about aquacycling, and <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.aquastudiony.com">book online here</a>.</p> <ul></ul> http://www.eye4style.com/Acca-Scuse-Me-AQUA-Cycling-Reviewed-30009618 Mon, 29 Apr 2013 01:45:17 +0000