If you send photos along with your question, it will be moved to the top of the list. If you wish to remain anonymous, just let me know. I look forward to hearing from you.
Treat everyday like you are on the runway.
Friday, May 6, 2011
I will help you look your best.
Do you have style questions? Blog suggestions? Become a follower of this blog and write me!
Keep In Touch
Growing up, my mother never missed an opportunity to write a card of encouragement, congratulations, or a simple note to say 'I love you' to the people that mattered to her. I saved each and every card and letter she sent to me and now they reside in a glass box on my book shelf. It is my very own treasure chest.
I have another chest that contains postcards, save the dates, baby shower invites, engagement cards, letters from friends, birthday cards... you get the idea. The people in my life have never sent me a piece of mail that I did not fully appreciate.
Many of my beautiful friends are mom's themselves now. Their babies, jobs, and daily lives keep them busier than ever but somehow they balance it all with grace. Their newborns and toddlers aren't able to tell them how much they appreciate their hard work, love, and support but now I see firsthand how much my own mother did for me. (Wow. Thanks Mom!) However, now more than ever, it is harder to see my friends as our lives continue to get busier, so I cherish the mail I receive even more. Knowing that they thought of me in their one free minute always makes me smile.
If you aren't sure what to buy your own mom for Mother's Day this Sunday, here is a great idea. First, write her a note, a thank you. Then, for $35, buy her this sweet (and stylish!) little box of cards. Kate Spade is a great go-to for thoughtful and special little gifts and this one does not disappoint. For a mom, convenience is always key. With this box, she will have what she needs when it's time to write a quick card to you or the other people that matter to her.
The front of the cards are pre-printed with:
"For no particular reason..."
"You read my mind..."
"I heard you were under the weather..."
"A round of applause..."
And, "The icing on the cake..."
The inside of the cards are blank for her to write whatever she wants. Bonus: she can mix and match the lined envelopes to compliment the color of the writing on each card.
So remember, keep in touch.
Happy Mother's Day Mom, Breeana, Lauren S., Liesl, and Lindsey. Thank you for all that you do. xoxo
I have another chest that contains postcards, save the dates, baby shower invites, engagement cards, letters from friends, birthday cards... you get the idea. The people in my life have never sent me a piece of mail that I did not fully appreciate.
Many of my beautiful friends are mom's themselves now. Their babies, jobs, and daily lives keep them busier than ever but somehow they balance it all with grace. Their newborns and toddlers aren't able to tell them how much they appreciate their hard work, love, and support but now I see firsthand how much my own mother did for me. (Wow. Thanks Mom!) However, now more than ever, it is harder to see my friends as our lives continue to get busier, so I cherish the mail I receive even more. Knowing that they thought of me in their one free minute always makes me smile.
If you aren't sure what to buy your own mom for Mother's Day this Sunday, here is a great idea. First, write her a note, a thank you. Then, for $35, buy her this sweet (and stylish!) little box of cards. Kate Spade is a great go-to for thoughtful and special little gifts and this one does not disappoint. For a mom, convenience is always key. With this box, she will have what she needs when it's time to write a quick card to you or the other people that matter to her.
I love the box! When she is finished with all of the cards, she can recycle the container in her kitchen as a recipe card holder.
The bright cheery colors are perfect for the season and the simplicity of each note is super modern. The dividers will keep her organized, and because the cards are not covered in flowers (or some other feminine print) they are also appropriate to send to the opposite sex or even work colleagues.
 |
| {Kate Spade All Occasion Gift Box Set $35} |
"For no particular reason..."
"You read my mind..."
"I heard you were under the weather..."
"A round of applause..."
And, "The icing on the cake..."
The inside of the cards are blank for her to write whatever she wants. Bonus: she can mix and match the lined envelopes to compliment the color of the writing on each card.
So remember, keep in touch.
Happy Mother's Day Mom, Breeana, Lauren S., Liesl, and Lindsey. Thank you for all that you do. xoxo
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Which Charlie's Angel Are You?
70's inspired fashion is everywhere for spring/summer 2011. Peasant blouses, wide brimmed floppy hats, gorgeous wood wedges, gold jewelry, and oversized round sunglasses (a la Rachel Zoe) are some of the super stylish items that are a part of this trend. One of the standout's is bellbottom jeans. Now let me be clear, I love my skinny jeans. But this more relaxed silhouette is a welcome addition to my denim rotation. Check out the gorgeous Farrah Fawcett (may she rest in peace) showing us all how it's done.
Allow me to show you why. In addition to the high waist, these jeans are great because of the dark wash. The color makes them more versatile and slimming than a lighter pair. Here is Katie shopping in the same pair of jeans.
Do you have your pair of bellbottom jeans yet?
Treat everyday like you are on the runway.
**Update: Pregnant? See comments.
Like any pair of great jeans the right fitting pair of bellbottoms can do fabulous things for your butt, which is always a plus on my book! A leg that flares out at the knee, or just below it, will balance out hips. High waist options (my personal favorite) draw attention to a small waist. A higher rise will also prevent the dreaded 'muffin top' by concealing your stomach. The best part? When you lean over in a pair of high waist jeans, you don't have to worry about who is standing behind you or what type of thong you wore that day! Definitely mom-friendly.
Speaking of mom's...
One of the most stylish celebrity mom's is Katie Holmes. Here she is in ballet flats while running errands with the adorable Suri Cruise and rocking an effortless casual style. Katie is wearing one of the best VERSATILE pairs of bellbottom jeans:
 |
| {Current Elliott, High Rise Bell $188} |
Her silk blouse and sleek straight hair dress the look up a bit. Most likely she is also wearing a great pair of chunky heels under there. Still not sophisticated enough for you? Try this:
Yes, it's the same pair of jeans. Adding a blazer with rolled sleeves, a skinny belt, and a fabulous neutral handbag are easy ways to give a pair of bellbottom jeans a more mature look. Looking for something more casual?
Adding a slightly longer, but simple white tank with great lines to this pair of Current Elliott High Rise Bell Jeans is an easy weekend look. Just add sunglasses and go!
Do you have your pair of bellbottom jeans yet?
Treat everyday like you are on the runway.
**Update: Pregnant? See comments.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Magic Slippers
In honour of Mother's Day, I am going to spend the rest of the week sharing mom-friendly fashion with you. Enjoy.
Like many mom's out there, I am always searching for a chic alternative to my favorite four inch heels. Ballet flats do not cut it due to the lack of support and padding between my foot and the ground. The oxfords of last fall were a bit too menswear for me. And I am not a sneakers kind of a woman. What this means is I am usually running around shopping or on the set of a photo shoot wearing my favorite flat boots (see post here). Until now...
I was pleasantly surprised by this new trend in footwear for spring 2011. In addition to offering support, they are versatile, effortlessly cool, and a true classic. These shoes require minimal effort from the college students that want to roll out of bed and go. Moms can still chase their kids and look great grocery shopping. And the rest of us can run errands in style and comfort.
Presenting... The loafer.
After a lot of back and forth, I decided to try them and I am so glad that I did. Because they are a classic, I justified them as an investment piece and spent a little more. My new obsession:
I love the gold. They are neutral and feel glamourous enough for me to skip my beloved high heels. And because they are a driving loafer there is plenty of support. They can be dressed up or down and look great with almost all of my pants and jeans.
How to wear loafers with:
Skinny cargos? Roll them up a bit and grab your favorite T for a casual cool look on the weekend. A cute tote will finish the look.
Skinny jeans? Throw on a tank and a blazer for a more polished look. A top handle bag and a long necklace will add to the sophistication.
Boycut jeans? Be careful. You don't want to look sloppy. Roll your jeans and show some ankle. Make sure that your top is fitted and feminine enough to balance out your baggy bottom half. Try a fitted cardigan that shows off your waist and finish with a crossbody bag.
Khakis? Be careful. Loafers with khakis is a very old school, preppy look. The more fitted your khakis are, the more polished the look will be. Roll your pants up. A fitted nautical inspired striped tank and a swipe of bright pink lipstick (see post here) will keep the look classic but modern. Not into bright lipstick? Try a bright colored scarf.
Skirts? Choose a traditional leather loafer with a heel instead of a driving loafer. Loafers with tassels are extra credit. Make sure the rest of your outfit doesn't scream school uniform. Opt for structured edgier pieces or a floral skirt. Add socks that do not match your shoes for a more quirky look.
If you decide to try loafers, SKIP:
Bellbottom jeans. Try a cone shaped heel or a chunky wedge instead.
Bootcut jeans. The combination of the squared-off toe of the loafers with these jeans will make your legs look short. Choose a narrow rounded toe ballet flat or your favorite pair of stilettos.
Maxi skirts. A great pair of flat gladiator sandals make more sense with this flowing silhouette.
Other great loafer options:
These Tory Burch loafers in Equestrian Orange cover two trends at once. Bright accessories, especially orange ones, are huge for spring/summer 2011.
I had a difficult decision between this pair and the gold ones that I chose. How glamourous are ruby red slippers?!
This pair by Cole Haan is a budget-friendly alternative to my metallic choice.
Easy on your wallet and just the right heel to wear with skirts! Plus, I love the unique teal color.
Another great neutral and in line with the nude shoe trend of spring 2011.
And finally, a gorgeous slick black version of the classic shoe.
How will you wear the loafer trend? Feel free to post your questions and comments.
Treat everyday like you are on the runway.
Like many mom's out there, I am always searching for a chic alternative to my favorite four inch heels. Ballet flats do not cut it due to the lack of support and padding between my foot and the ground. The oxfords of last fall were a bit too menswear for me. And I am not a sneakers kind of a woman. What this means is I am usually running around shopping or on the set of a photo shoot wearing my favorite flat boots (see post here). Until now...
 |
| {The trend on model Natalia Vodianova, Nicole Ritchie, Olivia Palermo, and Jessica Alba.} |
I was pleasantly surprised by this new trend in footwear for spring 2011. In addition to offering support, they are versatile, effortlessly cool, and a true classic. These shoes require minimal effort from the college students that want to roll out of bed and go. Moms can still chase their kids and look great grocery shopping. And the rest of us can run errands in style and comfort.
Presenting... The loafer.
After a lot of back and forth, I decided to try them and I am so glad that I did. Because they are a classic, I justified them as an investment piece and spent a little more. My new obsession:
 |
| {Prada, Perforated Driver $430} |
How to wear loafers with:
Skinny cargos? Roll them up a bit and grab your favorite T for a casual cool look on the weekend. A cute tote will finish the look.
Skinny jeans? Throw on a tank and a blazer for a more polished look. A top handle bag and a long necklace will add to the sophistication.
Boycut jeans? Be careful. You don't want to look sloppy. Roll your jeans and show some ankle. Make sure that your top is fitted and feminine enough to balance out your baggy bottom half. Try a fitted cardigan that shows off your waist and finish with a crossbody bag.
Khakis? Be careful. Loafers with khakis is a very old school, preppy look. The more fitted your khakis are, the more polished the look will be. Roll your pants up. A fitted nautical inspired striped tank and a swipe of bright pink lipstick (see post here) will keep the look classic but modern. Not into bright lipstick? Try a bright colored scarf.
Skirts? Choose a traditional leather loafer with a heel instead of a driving loafer. Loafers with tassels are extra credit. Make sure the rest of your outfit doesn't scream school uniform. Opt for structured edgier pieces or a floral skirt. Add socks that do not match your shoes for a more quirky look.
If you decide to try loafers, SKIP:
Bellbottom jeans. Try a cone shaped heel or a chunky wedge instead.
Bootcut jeans. The combination of the squared-off toe of the loafers with these jeans will make your legs look short. Choose a narrow rounded toe ballet flat or your favorite pair of stilettos.
Maxi skirts. A great pair of flat gladiator sandals make more sense with this flowing silhouette.
Other great loafer options:
 |
| {Tory Burch, Harrison Loafer $275} |
 |
| {Prada, Patent Leather Loafer $430} |
 |
| {Cole Haan Air Penny Driver $99} |
 |
| {Seychelles, Bobby Flat $65} |
 |
| {Frye, Reagan Campus Driver Flats $138} |
How will you wear the loafer trend? Feel free to post your questions and comments.
Treat everyday like you are on the runway.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Happy May.
Ah, the start of another week. The good news is, it's May. I feel all warm and fuzzy knowing that winter could not be further away in New England. We get to look forward to seven glorious snow-free months and I am ready. Bring on spring!
For obvious reasons, one of the hottest trends in nail polish every spring is coral. It is a color that is off limits during the grey months of winter so it marks the change of seasons for me. Coral is bright, it's warm, it shows off a tan, and it always makes me think of tropical vacation destinations. You can't help but feel cheery looking at these shades. They are the perfect bold statement for spring. However, much like hot pink lipstick (see post here), you need to find the right coral nail polish shade that works for your skin tone. This means that shades of peachy melon or reddish orange may be more appropriate for you than a bright coral orange. Here are some of the best:
Top to bottom:
1. Chanel, Miami Peach- A pinky peach with a very subtle gold shimmer. Office friendly and totally chic.
2. Deborah Lippmann, Girls Just Want To Have Fun- Pink Orange. Feminine and fun. New color for Spring 2011!
3. Deborah Lippmann, Lara's Theme- Double Dutch Orange - Hot orange. For those who are bold. It was also featured in the May issue of Vogue. (*Note: In the magazine it appears much more red than it is in person.)
4. Essie, Clambake- A rich red orange. Perfect for toes.
Handling hangers, zippers, buttons, and tape all day means that my manicures barely last a whole week before chipping. When I got engaged this past winter, people were constantly asking to see my ring and I had to come up with a better solution for my nail. (Acrylics were not an option. In fact, they should be banned in my opinion.) Enter the god-send: gel nail polishes. I will never go back to ordinary polish for my hands. A gel polish manicure lasts me three weeks! And, because of the way the polish bakes on, it is dry when I get up from the table so my nails never smudge. When these polishes first came out, the color selection was limited, but not anymore. Here is the color I chose yesterday:
It's a shellac polish called Tropix, by CND. Out of the bottle it's a bright pinky coral and it is definitely putting me in the mindset for a new season. I've come out of hibernation! And so has the beautiful Kim Kardashian. She wore coral to the Kids' Choice Awards this year.
So, my fellow style goddesses, will you be wearing coral nail polish this spring?
For obvious reasons, one of the hottest trends in nail polish every spring is coral. It is a color that is off limits during the grey months of winter so it marks the change of seasons for me. Coral is bright, it's warm, it shows off a tan, and it always makes me think of tropical vacation destinations. You can't help but feel cheery looking at these shades. They are the perfect bold statement for spring. However, much like hot pink lipstick (see post here), you need to find the right coral nail polish shade that works for your skin tone. This means that shades of peachy melon or reddish orange may be more appropriate for you than a bright coral orange. Here are some of the best:
Top to bottom:
1. Chanel, Miami Peach- A pinky peach with a very subtle gold shimmer. Office friendly and totally chic.
2. Deborah Lippmann, Girls Just Want To Have Fun- Pink Orange. Feminine and fun. New color for Spring 2011!
3. Deborah Lippmann, Lara's Theme- Double Dutch Orange - Hot orange. For those who are bold. It was also featured in the May issue of Vogue. (*Note: In the magazine it appears much more red than it is in person.)
4. Essie, Clambake- A rich red orange. Perfect for toes.
Handling hangers, zippers, buttons, and tape all day means that my manicures barely last a whole week before chipping. When I got engaged this past winter, people were constantly asking to see my ring and I had to come up with a better solution for my nail. (Acrylics were not an option. In fact, they should be banned in my opinion.) Enter the god-send: gel nail polishes. I will never go back to ordinary polish for my hands. A gel polish manicure lasts me three weeks! And, because of the way the polish bakes on, it is dry when I get up from the table so my nails never smudge. When these polishes first came out, the color selection was limited, but not anymore. Here is the color I chose yesterday:
So, my fellow style goddesses, will you be wearing coral nail polish this spring?
Friday, April 29, 2011
Southern Rehearsal
I have been working as a personal stylist for eight years. I shop with people, I shop for them, I do wardrobe consulting, closet overhauls, and I've even been known to pack for my clients. I am currently styling a client for her wedding rehearsal dinner in rural Virginia at the end of May. This particular client presented a new challenge. I met this young woman once about five years ago and now I am styling her via Skype, emails with lots of photos, and some of my favorite online stores. I thought you might enjoy the process.
Her event is outdoors under a tent and fairly laid back. She wears cowboy boots a lot and wanted options that would allow her to wear her favorite pair to the rehearsal dinner. I asked her to send me a current photo of herself, and then answer these questions.
Q. Who are the three celebrities whose style you admire most?
A. Rachel Bilson for her edginess. Katie Holmes because she has mastered the chic girl next door. And Taylor Swift for her country style.
Q. What do you feel are your best physical attributes?
A. My butt and my stomach.
Q. Any areas that you are less comfortable with?
A. I am probably least comfortable with my legs. Though I am not at all
opposed to wearing a skirt or dress for the rehearsal dinner.
Her event is outdoors under a tent and fairly laid back. She wears cowboy boots a lot and wanted options that would allow her to wear her favorite pair to the rehearsal dinner. I asked her to send me a current photo of herself, and then answer these questions.
Q. Who are the three celebrities whose style you admire most?
A. Rachel Bilson for her edginess. Katie Holmes because she has mastered the chic girl next door. And Taylor Swift for her country style.
Q. What do you feel are your best physical attributes?
A. My butt and my stomach.
Q. Any areas that you are less comfortable with?
A. I am probably least comfortable with my legs. Though I am not at all
opposed to wearing a skirt or dress for the rehearsal dinner.
My client has beautiful bright blue eyes and medium brown hair. Her complexion is fair and she has a very slim silhouette. Next, I asked her to send me photos of her three favorite outfits and tell me why. This is the first outfit that my client sent to me:
 |
"I like this dress because I love the way it fits. It hugs my body but it's not too tight." She wears this with her favorite pair of flat sandals. The second outfit she sent:
"I love wearing jeans and cowboy boots. And I like the shirt because I like puff sleeves and plaid." And, of course, don't forget her beloved chocolate brown Lucchese cowboy boots that may make an appearance at her rehearsal dinner.
The third outfit she sent me looked like this:
My client's dress had the addition of a flower pin (in the same color as the dress) and her shoes were a matte snakeskin. "I like the puffy sleeves, the color, and the flower of the dress. I like the shoes because I think they are understated and classy."
Style Analysis: Clearly my client has very feminine taste. Pink, puff sleeves, and form fitting silhouettes are part of her favorite outfits. She leans toward cute pieces that are subtly sexy and she is not afraid of prints. Judging by her answers to my celebrity question, she is somewhat conservative but not afraid to take fashion risks. I can see Taylor Swift's romantic country style and Katie Holmes' embodiment of simple classic style in all of her outfits. Rachel Bilson and her fearless approach to fashion is what my client aspires to. This is the short version of what came next.
I decided to email my client a handful of options via site links. She gave me her feedback in between each option so I was able to judge what she was feeling and adjust where I directed her.
Option #1
This is the most casual look. It would look great with her cowboy boots (or a pretty espadrille) and has a definite sexy country feel. The eyelet and sweetheart neckline are cute and feminine, the silhouette is classic. The cut will highlight her small waist and flat stomach while the slightly flared skirt will give her thin body some nice curves. It has Taylor Swift written all over it.
Option #2
This dress is feminine, romantic, and dramatic. The dark color will be unexpected in the southern sea of pastels, Lilly Pulitzer, and seersucker while playing off of her rich brown hair. My client's cowboy boots will also look great with it. It has a beautiful tiny floral print, and the belt could be tighter to accent her waist. Plus the lightweight fabric will outline her butt perfectly. I can see Rachel Bilson rocking this dress with a pair of motorcycle boots.
Option #3
The last look is fashionable and modern. The silhouette is casual and airy while the subtle sparkle makes it special. The color will remind people that she is the bride and the silk will show off her slim figure as she moves. (Plus, no one will notice the attribute that she is least comfortable with!) The billowy sleeves and floor length silhouette add a hint of drama and elegance. It's perfect for a casual evening in the spring. Katie Holmes (or any other girl next door) would certainly wear this on a special occasion.
So readers, which dress would you choose? Stay tuned and I will update you on her final choice! [Click on any of the dresses to purchase.]
"I love wearing jeans and cowboy boots. And I like the shirt because I like puff sleeves and plaid." And, of course, don't forget her beloved chocolate brown Lucchese cowboy boots that may make an appearance at her rehearsal dinner.
The third outfit she sent me looked like this:
My client's dress had the addition of a flower pin (in the same color as the dress) and her shoes were a matte snakeskin. "I like the puffy sleeves, the color, and the flower of the dress. I like the shoes because I think they are understated and classy."
Style Analysis: Clearly my client has very feminine taste. Pink, puff sleeves, and form fitting silhouettes are part of her favorite outfits. She leans toward cute pieces that are subtly sexy and she is not afraid of prints. Judging by her answers to my celebrity question, she is somewhat conservative but not afraid to take fashion risks. I can see Taylor Swift's romantic country style and Katie Holmes' embodiment of simple classic style in all of her outfits. Rachel Bilson and her fearless approach to fashion is what my client aspires to. This is the short version of what came next.
I decided to email my client a handful of options via site links. She gave me her feedback in between each option so I was able to judge what she was feeling and adjust where I directed her.
Option #1
This is the most casual look. It would look great with her cowboy boots (or a pretty espadrille) and has a definite sexy country feel. The eyelet and sweetheart neckline are cute and feminine, the silhouette is classic. The cut will highlight her small waist and flat stomach while the slightly flared skirt will give her thin body some nice curves. It has Taylor Swift written all over it.
Option #2
This dress is feminine, romantic, and dramatic. The dark color will be unexpected in the southern sea of pastels, Lilly Pulitzer, and seersucker while playing off of her rich brown hair. My client's cowboy boots will also look great with it. It has a beautiful tiny floral print, and the belt could be tighter to accent her waist. Plus the lightweight fabric will outline her butt perfectly. I can see Rachel Bilson rocking this dress with a pair of motorcycle boots.
Option #3
The last look is fashionable and modern. The silhouette is casual and airy while the subtle sparkle makes it special. The color will remind people that she is the bride and the silk will show off her slim figure as she moves. (Plus, no one will notice the attribute that she is least comfortable with!) The billowy sleeves and floor length silhouette add a hint of drama and elegance. It's perfect for a casual evening in the spring. Katie Holmes (or any other girl next door) would certainly wear this on a special occasion.
So readers, which dress would you choose? Stay tuned and I will update you on her final choice! [Click on any of the dresses to purchase.]
Thursday, April 28, 2011
I Dare You.
I am always looking for a way to simplify my beauty routine. However, I'm not always successful.
Hits:
Light Colored Nail Polishes- Chips and smudges are less noticeable. And if you don't have time to get to the nail salon the following week, new nail growth is also less noticeable. (As compared to my favorite red polishes.) Bonus: these light shades make your fingers look longer and more feminine.
Misses:
Tinted Moisturizer- Not moisturizing enough. And the makeup part seems to melt off my face or change color by midday.
Lip/Cheek Stains- Yes, they stay on all day. But they are so messy and need to be applied so carefully that my routine ends up taking longer. (Though I do love Benetint when I have some extra get ready time.)
Enter hot pink lipsticks, my new Hit. They are not for everyone, but don't knock them before you try them. They were one of the biggest trends on the runways for Spring/Summer 2011 and worth a try in your everyday. Here's why:
- A bright shade can simplify your beauty regime because you don't need to wear much else on your face. You can skip blush, powder, bronzer, even foundation because these shades tend to look better on a glowing (vs. matte) moisturized face anyway.
- A bright lipstick can be the perfect pick me up on a grey rainy day.
- A bright lipstick draws attention away from your eyes on a day when it looks like you haven't slept in a week.
- A bright lipstick exudes confidence, which is always a good thing!
- A bright lipstick can act as an accessory on an otherwise understated look. Skip the jewelry one day!
All you really need to pull off hot pink lipstick is some mascara and concealer. (Loose powder is optional.) Just make sure you pick the right shade for you. For this 'runway' to 'realway' look, I chose a hot pink with bluish undertones. It is bright, but not fluorescent like some of those pictured above. It looks more like this one that Fergie is wearing.
Going to try a bright shade and not in a rush? Here are some tips to make your bold color last longer. Start by powdering your lips. This acts like a primer that the color will adhere to better than a naked lip. Then try a lip stain or line your entire lip to avoid the dark edge that happens when the lipstick begins to wear off the center of your lips. Run lipstick over your lips one time and dab your finger to blend the color for best results.
My new favorite? It's called Cosmic Raspberry by Bobbi Brown. It is long wear formula and it has SPF 12. Click on 'My Favorite Things' for all of my favorites and links to buy.
So readers, what do you think? Do you dare?
Treat everyday like you are on the runway.
Hits:
Light Colored Nail Polishes- Chips and smudges are less noticeable. And if you don't have time to get to the nail salon the following week, new nail growth is also less noticeable. (As compared to my favorite red polishes.) Bonus: these light shades make your fingers look longer and more feminine.
Misses:
Tinted Moisturizer- Not moisturizing enough. And the makeup part seems to melt off my face or change color by midday.
Lip/Cheek Stains- Yes, they stay on all day. But they are so messy and need to be applied so carefully that my routine ends up taking longer. (Though I do love Benetint when I have some extra get ready time.)
Enter hot pink lipsticks, my new Hit. They are not for everyone, but don't knock them before you try them. They were one of the biggest trends on the runways for Spring/Summer 2011 and worth a try in your everyday. Here's why:
- A bright shade can simplify your beauty regime because you don't need to wear much else on your face. You can skip blush, powder, bronzer, even foundation because these shades tend to look better on a glowing (vs. matte) moisturized face anyway.
- A bright lipstick can be the perfect pick me up on a grey rainy day.
- A bright lipstick draws attention away from your eyes on a day when it looks like you haven't slept in a week.
- A bright lipstick exudes confidence, which is always a good thing!
- A bright lipstick can act as an accessory on an otherwise understated look. Skip the jewelry one day!
All you really need to pull off hot pink lipstick is some mascara and concealer. (Loose powder is optional.) Just make sure you pick the right shade for you. For this 'runway' to 'realway' look, I chose a hot pink with bluish undertones. It is bright, but not fluorescent like some of those pictured above. It looks more like this one that Fergie is wearing.
Going to try a bright shade and not in a rush? Here are some tips to make your bold color last longer. Start by powdering your lips. This acts like a primer that the color will adhere to better than a naked lip. Then try a lip stain or line your entire lip to avoid the dark edge that happens when the lipstick begins to wear off the center of your lips. Run lipstick over your lips one time and dab your finger to blend the color for best results.
My new favorite? It's called Cosmic Raspberry by Bobbi Brown. It is long wear formula and it has SPF 12. Click on 'My Favorite Things' for all of my favorites and links to buy.
So readers, what do you think? Do you dare?
Treat everyday like you are on the runway.
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