Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Dollface.

The Louis Vuitton brand supplies me with eye candy for days. The fashion, the bags, the advertisements, the shoes... I can't get enough. Last fall, the labels' spring 2012 fashion show forced me to add makeup to that long list.


The models strutted their stuff on the runway in ladylike pastel fashion and had the perfect makeup to compliment each look. I love this simple makeup look, especially for daytime, in the spring and summer months. Gorgeous skin, a "natural" flush, and lashes for days. It's so easy! Here's how:

Always prep your skin before your makeup. And make sure you exfoliate! It's a must for this look.

My winning combination for instant luminous skin is Estee Lauder Idealist Even Skintone Illuminator + Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer.

{Estee Lauder Even Skintone Illuminator, $58.}

After washing your face, apply the illuminator and then let it dry. Follow with the tinted moisturizer, and don't forget your ears! The coverage is nice and sheer so you won't feel like your face will melt in the heat. However, the tinted moisturizer has more pigment than its competitors so you will also have great coverage when you leave your normal foundation/ base behind.

{Nars Tinted Moisturizer, $42.}

In a hurry? Add a squirt of the Estee Lauder Illuminator directly to the Nars Tinted Moisturizer in your hand and blend well. Both products are oil free, and the tinted moisturizer has SPF 30!


This makeup look is feminine and youthful. While it is a soft look, fuller eyebrows will add some structure to your face. Make sure you fill in and define yours with a brow pencil. (I like Diorshow Ultra Fine Precision Brow Pencil.) For a longer lasting look, follow with a clear brow gel.


On the runway, models wore lots of fake eyelashes. Try it for an evening out! For a more everyday look, try several coats of these:



To finish this Louis Vuitton inspired look, lightly dust your cheeks with a peachy blush and add a swipe of your favorite peachy nude lipgloss. If you have time, consider adding a light colored shimmer to the inside corner of your eyes. (Please note: shimmer is not glitter.)


Let's recap:
          1) Exfoliate
          2) Luminous skin
          3) Full Brows
          4) Lashes
          5) Touch of peach...

Hello Dollface!

*Tiara and rhinestone headband optional.

Treat everyday like you are on the runway.

Monday, April 16, 2012

Helpful Tools: Wedding Planning

My bridal luncheon was this past weekend and the shock that I am getting married in 41 days is setting in. I am so excited! As the planning draws to a close, I wanted to share some of my most helpful tools in this planning process.

1) Reference
"The Art of the Handwritten Note; A Guide to Reclaiming Civilized Communication" is a book that has been a part of my library for years. It was a birthday gift I received from one of my bridesmaids several years ago that has proved a valuable resource. Between thank you notes, notes to vendors, and addressing all of the different invitations, I was happy to have this for tips. It's a good read too!

{The Art of the Handwritten Note, $10.88}

Fashion and stationery are two of my favorite things, and I love when my two worlds mix.

"Do not write with a pencil or use blue-lined school paper, especially not notebook paper with holes punched in it. That's like going out dressed only in your underpants... You can use a ball-point pen on plain white paper if you have absolutely no other materials and you need to send a note. That's at least like wearing a T-shirt and jeans."

"Do not cross out and correct more than two errors per page. That's like going out dressed in clothing that has holes in it."

I could not have said it better myself.

2) Organization
A Christmas gift from my little sister that proved indispensable in the planning process was this wedding planning kit. The 13 categorized folders helped me keep all of our contracts and payments straight. The pocket planner went in my handbag for quick reference when I was meeting with a vendor. It includes a fashion and beauty guide for the bride-to-be that needs a little more guidance. And the best part? The poster-size checklist. I put it on our refrigerator so that when my fiancé wondered why I was so stressed this past year, he didn't have to ask... It also prompted him to take care of a few "to-do's"on his own.

{The Ultimate Wedding Planning Kit, $29.95}

I kept my inspiration binder separate from all of the contracts and records of payment for the wedding. It allowed me to focus on styling and envisioning the event without all of the extra paperwork in the way. Having my inspiration images in a separate binder was also a simple way to present my wedding vision to each of my vendors during the planning process.


3) Tools
It is amazing to have so many people willing to celebrate in our joy. (Thank you to all who attended my shower!) They have been so kind with their outpouring of gifts and well wishes for our next chapter. Many handwritten thank you cards are in order so make sure you have your stationery ready. I love this modern set personalized with his and her names. The 'established' year is a sweet touch.

{Walnut Paperie, Stationery 012, $48.}

Not for you? You could also order thank you notes to match your wedding paper (programs, menus, etc.). It will be a nice reminder to your guests after the wedding of the festivities they took part in on your big day.

Treat everyday like you are on the runway.

Saturday, April 14, 2012

Grown-Up.

I got hooked in middle school. It was cheap. It was easy. And my mother supported the habit.


I have been a ChapStick fiend for as long as I can remember. Is there anything worse than dry lips? My mother told me no. My gateway was Cherry ChapStick. The rosy shade looked like lipstick! Twenty years later I still pull a plastic tube, complete with plastic wrap, from my designer handbags on a daily basis. I pull it out more than my favorite Nars lipstick! (For my favorite shade right now, look here.) But I can't ignore it anymore. It's time to grow up.

{Estee Lauder Lip Conditioner, $18.50}

After years of searching for a suitable substitute of my favorite plastic tube, it's finally happened. It has SPF 15, a nice 'lipstick' scent, and the ladylike retro 1960's tube is exactly what I want to be pulling out of my handbag. It works underneath my lipsticks and have I mentioned I love gold? Thank you Estee Lauder, for another beauty classic.

Each application (and let's be honest, it's frequent) adds a moment of glamour to my regular day. It's the little things, you know?

Treat everyday like you are on the runway.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Floral Contrast.


Patterns are everywhere right now and one that I am quite fond of is this timeless black and white japanese floral. It was brought to my attention by the lovely Florence Broadhurst collaboration with Kate Spade and now I'm seeing it everywhere. Here are five ways to make it a part of your personal style.

1) Pretty Your Purse:

{Kate Spade Coin Purse, $50.}

2) For New Moms in the Know:

{Bebe au Lait Nursing Cover "Yoko", $35.}

3) Stylish Student:

{Kate Spade Pencil Set, $18.}

4) Start Her Young:

{Bebe au Lait Yoko Bib, $19.95

5) A Lady's Touch at Home:

{Kate Spade, Cushion Cover, $148.}

The home decor incorporation is definitely my favorite. Look at the pattern in these rooms!




Are you trying any patterns?

Treat every day like you are on the runway.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Instant Outfit: Neon

One of my favorite trends is still neon. (Last fall I told you why, here.) If you are looking for a wardrobe update, the unexpected and playful/edgy pop of color paired with the neutral clothing that already sits in your closet is a no-brainer.

Neon accessories make a stylish statement and look great with the following colors: black, grey, navy blue, beige, ivory, and white. (Brown is very tricky, so best to avoid that one here.) All of these colors should make up your wardrobe foundation, so it is a trend easily achievable by the addition of accessories. Or in this case, shoes. It's also appropriate for all ages.

Basic Equation:
Neutral Head-to-Toe + Neutral Handbag + Fabulous Neon Shoes = Instant Outfit

*Bonus Points For Your Look: Monochromatic is always chic.

Bottom Line:
Get yourself a pair of neon shoes. They are just what you need to update your same old looks. Here are my three neon shoe highlights (pun intended):

1) Laser cut ballerinas for work or play.


{Belle Sigersom Morrison, Andromeda Ballet Flats, $225.}

2) These stunning Prada peep-toes for nights and weekends:


{Prada Patent Leather Peep Toe, $720.}

3) Wear-me-all-summer sandals.


{Belle Sigerson Morrison, Randy Patent Leather Sandals, $175.}

Your Instant Outfit Review:
Choose a neutral- colored dress, or blouse and pant in the same hue, add a pair of these neon shoes and head out the door!

*Thoughtful Touches For Your Look: Add a simple pair of earrings and a ring OR a simple necklace. 

*Bonus Points For Your Look: Wear two neon items at the same time. (Neon Shoes + Neon Blouse, Neon Shoes + Neon Handbag, Neon Shoes + Neon Nail Polish, etc. )

Still unsure about this instant outfit? Enjoy some additional outfit inspiration:
{Images via Net-a-porter.com)





Treat every day like you are on the runway.

Friday, April 6, 2012

Embrace the Man.

Although I am girly-girl, I am a sucker for borrowed-from-him classics. (Look at the cut of my go-to blouse, here.) That's why when I found the women's clothing line inspired by menswear called Claridge & King, I had to share. My two favorite things to steal from Erich's closet? Button-down shirts and boxer shorts. This line does them right.

First things first, I am also a sucker for pinstripes. And I love that every product you order from this site comes in an adorable grey and white striped bag. It's all in the presentation people! Why do you think all of us know that little blue box?

At Home.
Back in my college days I would frequently steal Erich's boxer shorts. They worked great as comfortable loungewear when I was studying in one of our rooms; not to mention as impromptu sleepwear. Of course I always had to roll the waistband several times to keep them up, but that unflattering fabric bulk never stopped me. Comfort won out. Thankfully, ten years later Erich's choice of undergarment has changed and I am out of luck when I open his underwear drawer looking for unflattering shorts. 

{The Boxer Set, $68.}

But one thing hasn't changed: When it comes to loungewear and sleepwear, comfort still wins out. Enter Claridge & King and another fashion problem is solved. "We've borrowed his boxers and her tap pants and melded the best of both..."  Goodbye unflattering fabric bulk. Wear these on your waist or fold them over once to reveal their signature stripe on the inner band. They are available in four colors (of course, I want the 'ice pink') and the crisp cotton is begging to be worn at home in the warmer months. The side vents on each leg and grosgrain ribbon-edged back pocket are both thoughtful feminine touches.

{The Boxer Single, $40.}

Now I just need to make sure they get put back in the right drawer on laundry day.

For Brides.
Every woman knows that when you have your hair and makeup done professionally, you must be wearing a shirt that does not need to be pulled over your head when it is time to change into your outfit. On your big day, this is an important detail to remember. After hours spent in a chair, you will be a work of art. And trust me, you do not want to destroy it before you put on your dress! 

{The His is Hers Bridal Shirt, $98.}

This sweet little number is available in six different colors. Put your new monogram on the shirt and include your wedding day as a thoughtful touch. (Take a closer look at this photo to see the wedding date on the sleeve.)

On Your Honeymoon (or any other trip).
Three of my must-have travel items:

1) A pair of thick socks. - I refuse to walk through airport security barefoot. Ick.

2) An oversized scarf or wrap. - To double as a blanket on the plane, which is always freezing.

3) An eye mask. - More comfortable than sunglasses for in-flight naps.

Again, Claridge and King delivers it all in a pretty package. Now to decide which go-with-anything color...



{The Travel Set, $275.}
Bon voyage.

Treat everyday like you are on the runway.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

To Be Olivia.

Have you seen Olivia Palermo in the latest Marie Claire Spain issue (April 2012)? The feminine, sophisticated, retro glamour of every look might just be the only wardrobe I need for the new season. Wrap it up! I'll take them all. (I wish.)

This bright flowy dress would be perfect for my rehearsal dinner. I love the sheer sleeves, on-trend color, and gold accessories.


One look at her hair in this photo and I'm confidant I will go back to a brown shade someday. I love this classic Bardot half-up hair style. The pretty pastel feather skirt is so special, I would wear it to my bridal shower. Plus, I just want to rip those amazing shoes right off of her feet!


Olivia shows us how to do spring's pastel fashion with a deep raisin nail color. The dark color works well as a neutral while being a dramatic contrast to her outfit at the same time. (Check out 'Dark Lava' here.) The delicate accordion pleats of this dress are a thoughtful detail. I could wear this to one of the many baby showers I'm invited to this spring.


Of course, sometimes you just want comfort. On those occasions my personal style can often take on a bohemian vibe. This long pink eyelet number is the perfect balance of feminine, sexy, and bohemian. I would wear it to the grocery store, to the beach, and to brunch. Versatile dresses are always a win in my book.


I would wear this printed dress with pumps to meet with clients or a wedding vendor. I would change to pretty ballet flats for a day of shopping on Newbury Street. Love that lipstick shade... And seriously, look at her hair!


What is your favorite look?

Treat everyday like you are on the runway.

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Treat everyday like you are on the runway.

Monday, April 2, 2012

Pleasant Poppy.

Past Obsession: Last year I shared the hot pink lipstick trend with you, here.

Current Obsession: Nars Lipstick in Manhunt. The sheer formula is something I can build on for a different look from day to night. One coat is a poppy color. Three coats is an amazing red orange. It's just the shade I've been searching for... And it looks great on most skin tones.

{Nars Lipstick, $24.}

My Inspiration: Jason Wu, Spring Ready to Wear 2012 Collection


The Rules: Be sure that the rest of your makeup is neutral. The goal is glowing skin that does not compete with the bold lipcolor. Focus on well-groomed brows and a highlighter in the inner corners of the eyes. Dust a light pink blush just on the apples of your cheeks. Subtly define your eyes with a thin black line along your top lashes or use several coats of mascara. 

The Looks: Enjoy some of my favorites.







{Images via Style.com}

Those beautiful voluminous skirts get me every time. Stunning. As you can see from the runway, a poppy shade of lipstick works with many different looks. For more Jason Wu, check out his limited collection at Target, here.

The Celebrities: Showing us how it is done.


Will you try poppy lipstick?

Treat everyday like you are on the runway.