"Butterfly" Lashes!

For my fellow beauty product mavens, I wanted to post a quick review on a new mascara I purchased which is absolutely phenomenal.  I'll start by saying that I've been a faithful Maybelline Great Lash user for as long as I can remember.  I also love L'oreal's original Voluminous mascara.  These mascaras continually rank at the top of best beauty products.

I'll admit that the color of the packaging grabbed my attention to start with.  So, I bought a new mascara by L'oreal with no expectation or belief that my lashes would be as beautiful as butterfly wings!  It is called Voluminous Butterfly and the color is Black/Brown 869.

This mascara gives amazing length with absolutely no clumping, flaking and/or smudging and you can literally grab each lash with this brush which is so different than the average straight brushes.  The brush is described as "wing tip" and that is what makes it so great.

L'oreal has developed an asymmetrical wing tip brush with
flexible arches which helps to reach the outer edges of your
lashes.  The effect are butterfly effect lashes with "fringe that flutters."  They create the effect of perfectly placed lashes from top to bottom and as the packaging states, "False Lash Wings" and it works better than your best falsies.

It is about $6-$8 and worth every penny.  It performs better than some of my $30 mascaras.  Try it! I promise that you will love this one.

Cheers!

SJP, The New Collection is Coming to Selected Nordstrom Stores and Online February 28th! Will There Be "Must-Haves?"

Photo taken from Nordstrom.com

Let me start by saying that in my mind, there is no closer imitation to art than Sarah Jessica Parker is to her role in Carrie Bradshaw.  Many of us fashionistas still watch to see what SJP will pick to wear from one event to the next.  So it goes without saying that her New Collection "SJP" by Sarah Jessica Parker is highly anticipated and will debut at selected Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com on February 28th!  I often confuse the character with what her real life style really is.  Are there similarities? Does SJP take both into consideration for The Collection?

Photo taken from Nordstrom's Blog, The Thread.

I nearly jumped out of my chair with excitement until I heard these shoes will range somewhere starting around $200 up to $600; your reaction may or may not have been similar, but I had to scratch my head in deciphering whether or not I would pay this much for a SJP shoe by the real Sarah Jessica Parker verses a Manolo or Choo.  SJP has a fashion perspective and sense of style that could circle me times 1000; but, when I think of many of the great shoemakers who started in their little cobbler shops and worked their way up until they earned the price tag and respect as great shoe designers, I am not envisioning her name (at least not yet).  So let's clarify - SJP is designing her new collection of shoes, handbags, etc. with the support of George Malkemus, president of Manolo Blahnik USA and launching them in selected Nordstroms.  So with that being said, I am getting a better picture of success, particularly with Malkemus and MB USA supporting her vision.  Will SJP be able to compete with top shoes and accessories designers just because she played a fashionista and lives a real life filled with much style?  I am not yet convinced although she seems to be off to the races.

I am interested in hearing your point of views on this topic.  Part of me expects they will be of great quality because it is SJP, but there is also a part of me that says, really? Would I? They will be Italian-made just like J. Crew swears to a certain quality that only Italian shoemakers can provide. I say this with a smidgen of tongue and cheek.  I was a little disappointed to see that once again we are producing products from other countries because of their reputation for excellence.  How about designing and producing them in New York or Colorado, just sayin'.

The SJP Collection also seeks to provide other wardrobe must-haves such as trench coats?  I am very interested about this, probably more so than the shoes.  Sarah Jessica Parker says, "At long last I am able to share the news of my coming shoe collection and my partnership with Nordstrom in a more official way.  When I initially met with George Malkemus to discuss the idea of a shoe line, one of  the first things I said to him was that Nordstrom was my dream retailer.  And it seems some dreams do come true," says the actress and designer. Well, I agree with her in that Nordstrom would be my dream retailer as well.   This quote was taken from Nordstrom's Blog, The Thread.

From Nordstrom's Blog, The Thread: A Polished Pair: Malkemus tapped Parker for a shoe collaboration with Manolo Blahnik in 2011 on a reinvention of the coveted ‘Carolyne’ style.

As I sit and ponder about what and who this SJP Collection will be most like, I wonder whether it will incorporate some of the things we loved most about her character Carrie Bradshaw; she often had an eclectic style, sometimes classic and she always seemed to find several hundred dollars hiding around or just charging for a pair of Manolo's when the emotional need came upon her!  Her off-screen style sense at least in my eyes ranges from mommy, jeans and tee to highly fashionable at the Met.  I would say that my style leans toward the character Carrie so it will be interesting to see the female target audience they are most hoping to reach.  Selling at Nordstrom at least initially would lead me to believe this Collection is targeted a bit more upscale possibly alienating many women from purchasing the line.

I am fascinated that Sarah Jessica Parker is taking such a brave leap, again.  Do you all remember the low cost line she initially launched called "Bitten" for discount sportswear retailer Steve and Barry's?

I remember seeing SJP on a morning show wearing these clothes making us all feel like we could look great with pieces all under $19.95.  Something tells me that this SJP venture is a whole new ballgame.  This "Bitten" line was back in 2007 so thankfully we have had time to forget this.  However, the fashion industry was curious during this time whether or not the pieces were from SJP's style or Patricia Fields, who adoring fans of Sex and The City came to know as SATC's successful and unique stylist (still is!).

So again, will this Collection be true SJP, Carrie or too Manolo? Frankly, if I were to purchase upscale Italian pumps, I would go straight to the Manolo source.  I might suggest that landing Nordstroms with price points somewhere in the middle range of Manolo (or slightly less), puts this line smack dab in the MIDDLE.  Hopefully this will not hinder the overall quality.

As Nordstrom heads their post about the SJP Collection, "I need, I want, I will slip on a pair of SJPs."?  I am fairly sure there will be major buzz at least initially, but how Sarah Jessica Parker takes SJP with consideration to her true style both on and off screen into a real life collection remains to be seen.  But hey, Carrie would have given it a major go, wouldn't she have?!

Check out Refinery29 who also covers the SJP's shoe collection featuring a full-length video from The Coveteur as well.  You might get a better sense of why and what is inspiring Sarah Jessica Parker, the real person! :)

Cheers!

Hair Must Haves!

By now you know that I love my beauty products.  I have tried so many hair products and have found a few that I love.  When I repeat buy then I definitely love them and so here is a short list of those hair products I adore.

If you color and need quick root touch-ups between coloring or just want to add some depth to your roots then I strongly recommend that you try Rita Hazan's Root Concealer for Gray coverage.  It makes your hair look like you just left the salon.  I use the dark blonde or brown for my roots and then she has a platinum that I like to use to lighten my highlights.  It is worth the money and you may be able to stretch out your salon visits.

I have tried so many dry shampoos to keep my hair fresh between washing and I think that I have finally found a favorite.  You can now find this at Target with the Toni and Guy products.  They sell a dry shampoo called Cleanse/Dry Shampoo and you get a 5.2 oz bottle for $14.99.  It adds volume and smells great!

My next product that I love is Biolage's Detangling Solution which is the best product by far to detangle and can double up as a conditioner.  I actually like to mix my conditioner with this solution and my hair comes out super silky.  My daughter has tight curly hair and this is the only product that works well enough to pull a comb through with ease.  I recommend buying this at Target as well because it is cheaper there than at some of the beauty supply stores.

As far as hairspray, I cannot find a better one than L'oreal Paris Elnett Extra Strong Hold with UV protection.  It allows strong hold without being sticky or tacky and it is easy to comb through after spraying.  I buy this at Target as well for $12.99 which lasts for a long time!  This is also a favorite amongst professional hair stylists.

Last, my all time favorite shine spray is from Rusk and it is called Thermal Shine Spray.  I love spraying this on my hair when my hair is almost blow-dried and then I cool air my hair with this shine.  It is amazing, not greasy and works well if you are using a flat iron as well.

I may be fickle when it comes to products, but these by far are ones that I use over and over again. Feel free to share your favorite hair products!

Cheers!

Editorially Speaking, Fashionably Noted v1. December 2013

This is my second piece covering a favorite editorial spread.  I love when pictures can tell a story with raw emotion and visual impact.  This is my last piece for 2013 and then we will move into v2. for 2014.  Enjoy!

Frida Giannini tulle/satin dress

As I researched December fashion editorial, I came across a breathtaking piece from the Vogue UK, December 2013 issue.  It is entitled "Still Life" by photographer Josh Olins.  Models noted were Anna Ewers, Ashleigh Good and Sam Rollinson; styling/fashion editing by Lucinda Chambers.

This piece features designs from Gucci, Alexander McQueen and Valentino to name a few.  What initially drew me to this editorial were the jewel toned colors, rich, dark and very alluring.  These images can be found in the Vogue UK December 2013 issue with cover model Kate Moss by Tim Walker, Editor Alexandra Shulman (top left cover).

Still Life portrays "...a season well versed in dark beauty.  The new masters brim with opulent fabrics, pearl drops and exquisite handcrafted details."

Alexander McQueen's Pearl
Embroidered Silk Dress

Comme des Garcons

Photographer Josh Olins has this incredible talent in capturing emotion, deep and brooding.  You can find some of his additional work on Pinterest - I picked pinner Tranquil who has a nice representation of his work.  There are many other boards devoted to Olin's work.

http://www.clmus.com/photography/josh-olins represents other work including "Still Life" by Olins.  You can see the often dark, emotive feelings from his photographs.  In "Still Life" in particular, the models look as though they have transformed into still life pieces rather than people.  The rich color of the flowers and other set pieces depict the essence of true still life, like a painting.

More details on the shoot include the following:

Models: Sam Rollinson (select), Ashleigh Good (storm) 

and Anna Ewers (storm)

Photographer: Josh Olins (clm)

Stylist: Lucinda Chambers (artpartner)

Hair: Shon (julianwatson)

Manicure: Jenny Longworth (clm)

Make-up: Sally Branka (julianwatson)

You can find more beautiful photography by Josh Olins on his website josholins.com.

"Sarah Burton's spectacular 10-exit pageant looked to great queens and
the ecclesiastical elite: These regal ruffs and pearl- traced silks are for royal reserve only." Vogue UK Dec. '13

Dolce & Gabbana's filigree minaudière

Balenciaga's Cap-sleeved showstopper

 Cheers!

"Grab Bag - {the prettiest, sparkliest and most spectacular} New Year's Dresses!"

Let me start by saying that I love staying in on New Year's.  We rarely do.  There is a certain buzz in the air when getting ready for such a pretentious sort of evening.  The rooms are filled with sparkling, glistening and flashy dresses that take us to a place you just don't visit everyday.  Ok, well - it is like wonderland.  Add a little champagne and New Year's becomes a  magical evening, but once a year.  I am not wearing a glamorous dress this year; in fact I'm hoping to be as comfortable as possible while playing cards with some friends.

I did however want to share a few dreamy dresses that I would have love to worn if the event so required.  Are you going somewhere fancy? I'd love to hear what wonderful apparel you wear or worn by the time you have read this.

Chloe'

Net-A-Porter did an amazing job with this week's list showcasing ultra-glam wears to ring the new year in or for a special event.  My absolute favorite was worn on the cover of "The Edit" by supermodel Fei Fei Sun. This gorgeous hot pink dress was by Chloe' and the jewelry by Oscar de la Renta.  All I can say is "swoon".  I am a true girl's girl with pink on my regular menu and this dress carries it oh so right.  I don't know how one couldn't make a statement in this beauty, although being Fei Fei helps too!

Featured right, Thakoon.

"The Edit" featured one more that I had to mention by Thakoon, shoes by Bruno Magli; necklace by Jennifer Meyer; pendant by Ines and Vinoodh; ring by Sophie Bille
Brahe; bag by Charlotte Olympia.  I love the draping and the pastel pink, just a hint.  It is just the right amount of sexy and a little bit of sweet.

David Meister

fashionstyleblog featured 10 New Years Eve Party Dresses for Last Minute Shoppers and one and one stood out for me by David Meister, always classic and beautiful.  It has this stunning embroidered lace and ruched front which is flattering for so many shapes.  This is one of those dresses that can be worn over time.  I'm always on the hunt for a new "lbd".

And since 2014 is the Year of the Horse, silver has been anointed its color pairing.  The fringe is a nice touch considering the sign.  Any of the below dresses would fit the bill! I like that they are youthful, sexy, but classic and really sparkly!  Photos taken from a site called Latest Trends.
If you do not want to spend $ on a brand new holiday dress, I recommend piling on the sparkles and baubles.  Layering jewelry has been a big trend this year and I have found that it can really bring a little black dress to a new height of party.

Saint Laurent

Rolan Mouret

I think my greatest discovery this season is mytheresa which is "one of the world's leading online stores for luxury fashion." They launched in 2006 and feature over 180 top international designers.  They will work with you all the way and so if you are looking for superior service to find the hottest
and most glamorous trends, this is the way to go! This beautiful Saint Laurent dress is the perfect mix of glam and simplicity.  mytheresa then suggests styling options for coats to shoes, etc.  Check them out!

Where ever you go over the holidays, be safe and be healthy. I wish you all a happy New Year!

Cheers!

Take the Load Off - Favorite Beauty Products to Pamper Yourself!

This time of year is already hustling and bustling on its own; it's time for you to take some personal pampering time.  I wanted to share some of my favorite beauty pampering products for 2013.  Let's face it, it's hard to make it to the spa let alone spend the money before the holidays, but you can still take that 30-60 minutes at home and feel perfectly pampered all on your own.  Many of the product's sites are offering free shipping and/or gifts along with your purchase so now is a good time to try a new product or stock up on the ones that you really like.

If you love taking hot baths, it feels wonderful to add bath salts.  Sometimes they can be overpowering in scent so I really love the Ahava products.  Ahava makes a natural scent of Bath Salts, but their other scents are really light and make the soak really tranquil.  If you want to feel energized I would recommend the Eucalyptus, but my favorite bedtime soak is in Lavender.  You get a good amount for the price as well.  It's only $22 for the 32 OZ jar.  These natural Dead Sea mineral salts help to create the perfect calming bath after a long day.

I love to follow up with Clarins Relax Body Treatment Oil and it is incredibly hydrating during the winter months.  I love to use these after both baths and showers.  It really locks in the moisture.  They recommend warming the oil in your hands and smoothing it on your skin from the ankles up.  It is very relaxing so again, whether you are looking for that pamper time at home or you want to de-stress before leaving for the day, this is a great alternative to a rich cream.  I don't find it to be greasy as it absorbs pretty quickly.  This oil is made of 100% pure plant extracts and is beautifully scented with Geranium, Petit Grain, Camomile and Basil.  It sounds a bit odd of a combination, but it smells great!  If you are unsure about the scent, check it out at a Clarins counter before purchase as it is $56.  I love all the Clarin's products.

My favorite lip balm again in 2013 is Dior's Creme de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm.  This

smoothing, plumping and hydrating balm is pricey at $27, but it lasts for a really long time.  It does

all that is says and comes in Dior's classic white packaging.  It has the most subtle rose scent so it is perfect for night time, but it also has an SPF of 10 so you can wear it with multiple benefits.  It is not your everyday Chapstick, but it earns its price with an anti-aging complex of Rose of Damas essential oil, Vitamins A&E, Smoothing Shea Butter and the SPF10.  It is definitely a lip treat.

One of my new pampering favorites this year comes from Hourglass.  It's called No. 28 Primer Serum.  Here is the interesting thing about this product - I bought it as a primer and it does a beautiful job doing just that, but I love it for that extra moisture my face needs.  You can wear it under makeup, alone or under your favorite face moisture. This primer/serum is richly concentrated with 14 essential oils, 10 lipid-plant oils and four vitamins (hence the No. 28).  And with all of that, it has an amazing scent.  It is hard to believe this silky serum contains all these wonderful ingredients and it smooths the skin wonderfully.  If you don't like to wear a lot of makeup or any at all, this is the perfect veil of nutrients.  I tried the .33 oz pump to start and loved it so much I bought the 1 oz. when I ran out.  It is pricey at $65, but it serves a dual-purpose of priming and nourishing so it is really worth the price.  I have never used any of their products, but I definitely will now.

Even though we tend to take better care of our toes/feet in the summer when they are exposed regularly, it really helps to keep them hydrated during these colder months.  My pedicurist recommended this foot cream and I have never used another since.  It is called Nordic Care Foot Care Cream (Swedish Formula) and it is amazing!  It is a really rich treatment for a pretty inexpensive price.  It keeps your feet super moisturized, manages any cracking on the heels and leaves them super soft.  I love slathering this on before bed and wear socks over top to keep the moisture in.  You will
wake up with the softest feet.  Its key ingredients are urea which attracts and retains moisture, glycerin which has water-binding properties, lactic acid which is a component of the skin's own natural moisturizing factor as well as exfoliant and eucalyptus which is known for its natural antiseptic, antibacterial and blood circulating properties.  It comes in three sizes - 2 oz., 6 oz. and 32 oz.  If you want to try it first to see if you like it, the 2 oz. size is only $8.95.  It's wonderful!

My favorite luxe product is Chanel No. 5's After Bath Powder.  It is $65, but it lasts for months!  This is one of those products that I really love to use when I need that extra pamper.  It is silky and I adore the No. 5 scent. If you are not familiar with the Chanel fragrances it is a good idea to visit the counter at a higher end department store.  It leaves your skin feeling super soft and it contains Vitamin E and essential amino acids which are great protectors against free radicals and environmental damage.  I still have the same glass container that I purchased six months ago so you don't feel like you are spending so much money for something that gets used up quickly.  This is pretty much the only body powder that I love to use, but I also adore the No.5 scent.  They also make the bar soap which is an extra treat.  It smells so fresh and when you layer it has that extra staying power as a fragrance.

I apologize for the lapse in blogging.  I have been actively pursuing new job opportunities which as many know can seem like a full-time job, but I'm hopeful.  It has been a rough couple of years.  I still consider myself pretty young, but I also had both of my knees replaced last August.  I had old sports injuries mixed with arthritis so it was one of those necessary things I had to get done.

Thank you for following me.

Cheers!

J. Crew Collection on Film feat. Jenna Lyons

More reasons to get excited about Fall!



Cheers!