30 September 2009

Wednesdays Weekly Obsession: The Urban Punk Rock Princess Look


I picked this look because I’m all about putting pieces that necessarily shouldn’t be together into perfect harmony. As Odara would call it the punk rock princess look, I just call it be yourself and don’t be afraid to add items to create the look you want outfit! LOL.





 I chose a JJ Park netted skirt, because I love the dimensional layers and the length, it’s not too short it’s just right. The color is awesome and can be paired with many different options. This skirt is $99 but can be found at many other stores for less, such as Forever 21.



 



 


I’m a simple Tee type of lady, so I paired this skirt with a Famous Last words Tee ($30.00); It’s a great peach and Grey tee that goes perfectly with the skirt and just the right size to stop exactly at the bow, almost as if it was a dress.








 


There is nothing wrong with throwing a jacket in your outfit from time to time, especially for the cooler day but make sure to add your own personal flair. On this look, I chose an Ultimate Jeweled Jacket that is pretty colorful and funky to bring the outfit out.


















In addition, I added a Cotton Bow Brooch, to add my main color and showcase my love for the brooches and bows!









 



The shoes I chose was a pink leather high heel to add some length to your legs in this skirt. The stud embellishment makes the whole look come together.












 
One accessory I had to add was the Alexander McQueen Knuckle Duster Clutch; I absolutely adore this pricey piece of beauty. It’s small and funky, although its $1500, check out your local stores and find cheap alternatives.


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28 September 2009

Makeup Mondays: Triple Play


Happy Monday Everyone! I wanted to start the week off with something spunky! By no means do I consider myself "savvy" when it comes to makeup, but like most girls I do love to play around and experiment with new looks! Although I don't wear foundations, I do love my shadows. I'd like to think that I have a keen eye for colors that compliment my skin tone, but I'll let you all be the judge of that :-)






I call this look "Triple Play", specifically because I used three different colors. Ask anyone who knows me, when it comes to eyeshadow I am a MAC FaNatic!!! I absolutely love the richness, overall quality and variety of colors they carry.




Here are the products I used to create the look...





Cover Girl Lash Exact Mascara

I really just got into wearing mascara a few months ago so I'm still trying to find the right one that will create the perfect fullness in my lashes. So far Cover Girl's Lash Exact is one of my faves. I love the fact that you only really need to apply one coat!













MAC "Amber Lights"

I receive a lot of compliments every time I rock it! This is my absolute favorite eye shadow in the world!!! I wear it almost every single day and I'm sure you can tell from the photo above, hence the little hole in the center LOL!  The color is like a peachy shimmery bronze and it adds so much life to my eyes.






MAC "Star Violet"

I've had this eye shadow for a while now, it was given to me as a gift. I have to admit I was a little apprehensive in trying it at first, mainly because I've become so accustomed to neutral colors. The thing I love about it is that it doesn't actually look purple against my skin. It actually comes off as powdery pink!





MAC Eye Kohl "Hyacinth"

I was actually introduced to this color via twitter by Kitty Cleopatra! I must say I've been loving it ever since. The color is a metallic, medium blue and it's very vibrant! It makes my eyes pop and its oh so fresh & flirty :-)











Get This Look: Step by Step

1. First, I apply the Star Violet shadow inside the inner corners of my eyes, then I rub a little underneath my bottom lashes.

2. Next I smooth on the Amber Lights shadow over my entire eyelid. I prefer only adding color to my eyelids instead of  brushing it all around the eyes, but either way will work.

3. Then,  I line only the bottom of my eyes with the eye liner.

4. Lastly, I apply one coat of the Cover Girl mascara to my lashes, I always have a hard time applying it to my bottom lashes without error so I just stick to the top ones.


So what do you think?







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24 September 2009

Beauty 911 Quick Fixes On The Go!


Yes, we've all experienced those beauty mishaps & nightmares. And lets face it, they always happen at the most inopportune moments, special occasions and for me, at the office. Well, here are a few quick fixes for life's little emergencies!


Clear Tape

Believe it or not, you'd be surprised at what just an inch of scotch tape can do for dry or chapped lips. Just press it over the infected area and peel off. It gently lifts the dead skin in a matter of seconds.You can also use it to remove flaky skin from your nose and other areas.






Post It Note

Go ahead, look at me funny if you want to, but I've lost count of the number of times I've used a couple of these babies in the office. Here's the dilemma: You Just had a great lunch and notice something icky in between your teeth, but, you forgot your dental floss. No worries, you can use the edge of a post it or even an envelope to remove it. Now, while this may not be the most conventional or sanitary method, its still effective nonetheless. :-)











Dryer Sheets

It's no secret that dryer sheets eliminate static, but did you know it also fixes frizz? Just run a sheet or two over your hair to tame those flyaway strands throughout the day.









Disposable Seat Covers

I know...I knoooow...sounds gross right? And you're a little apprehensive? Trust me I felt the same way when I was first introduced to this by a coworker. Now, I have extremely oily skin and I normally always carry Clean & Clear oil absorbent sheets in my purse. But my memory isn't that great so sometimes I forget them, and what's a girl to do when she's at work, without them? That's right I head right to the ladies room and use one of these babies. Guess what? It works like a charm, soaks up all the access oils and I'm set!






Vaseline

If you asked my grandmother her secret to keeping her skin so flawless over all these years, she wouldn't say one word. She'd just pull out her container of Vaseline! She swears by this stuff. And I gotta admit I'm definitely on the bandwagon. It's like a quick fix to almost anything!

Chaffing? Just apply a little to the heels and balls of your feet, legs or other agitated areas and this will surely do the trick.

*Bonus* Did you know that oilier skin maintains fragrance longer? So instead of piling on the perfume just apply a thin layer of Vaseline on your wrist or neck before spraying it on and the scent will last much longer!



Matches

Need a nail file or an emery board and can't find one? The strike plate on a book of matches can fix your fingernail dilemma. Generally, anything with a moderately coarse edge can temporarily smooth out a broken or chipped nail.
















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D.I.Y. Clutch Covers



I’m all about recycling what you have and creating new looks. So I found you a video that shows a simple way of making covers for your clutch to have many looks with just one bag. Check out this video and try it out. All you need is fabric, pins, scissors, needle, thread, and a tad bit of patience!

 Interested in making a clutch from scratch? Try the Chic Foldover Clutch Purse from diystyle. With minimal supplies & only a few steps, you'll be rocking your custom design in no time!




Here's what you do:

  1. Mark and cut a panel from each of the following: suede, cotton print and the quilt batting, measuring 15" x 29".
  2. Spray the back side of the suede and the quilt batting with the spray adhesive. Gently lay the suede on top of the quilt batting and smooth out any wrinkles. Pin the edges.
  3. Stitch the two layers together across the width of the panel, at the center.
  4. Layer the quilted suede panel with the cotton lining, right sides together, pin the edges.
You can check out the full list of supplies and directions HERE.


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17 September 2009

Avon Solutions: Banishing Cream

For all you ladies with unwanted dark spots and discolorations, I recommend Avon Solutions: Banishing Cream (Skin Discoloration Improver) This product is filled with Vitamin E, botanical brightening blend, and Avon’s patented skin brightener. This product has helped reduce the discoloration on my face , through its rich crème and just a few drops to the skin each day. Even if you don’t have such problems, this is a great moisturizer it truly keeps the face fully hydrated. To make this product even more desirable its only $8.50. Note: This product will not work with every skin type.


You Can Buy it Here

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16 September 2009

Wednesday's Weekly Obsession: The Fergie Mission Slingbacks





I'm not even gonna lie, I do NOT normally STAN for slingbacks. I've only owned one pair in my lifetime and lets just say they didn't get too much wear in tear b/c I never actually "wore" them! LOL!

But as soon as I spotted these 4 inch beauties they had me gasping for air, kinda made me want to reconsider my on-going love/hate (mostly hate) relationship I've had with them in the past.

This weeks obsession are The Mission Slingbacks by Fergie! I ran across these cute little bangers in the August issue of Essence Magazine and instantly fell in love with them. They have such a playful look, lots of versitility and oh so many possibilities when it comes to dressing them up...Fergies Shoe Collection is definitely "unique". These shoes have "Good Girl Gone Bad" written all over them! I mean they are called "The Mission", even the name sounds dangerous! Owwww!





Got the shoes but nothing to wear with them? Check out my picks below.




The Belted Flutter Hem Dress by Forever21
$23.00

I love this dress because it's simple. Perfect for drinks or any night out on the town. The pleats give it a flirty look while the Black belt cinched at the waist sophisticates it with subtle flair!





Black Sparkle Legging by Dorothy Perkins
$23.00

I think solid colored leggings are the perfect tone down for any ensemble, especially one with bold colors and bold shoes to match!

We wouldn't want to overdue it with too much blue on blue action so wearing the dress as a top is ideal.






Max C Black Stud Lock Clutch by Dorothy Perkins
$58.00

Yeah, this bag may come with a strap but I say lose it. This little clutch has so much edginess & chic wrap into one.

I love the silver metal snap and studs. They create such a hardcore look!

Diamond Dangle Earrings by Charlotte Russe
$4.00

Need something to compliment a long neckline or a sophisticated up do? Well these spunky diagonal pieces are the perfect pair to do just that!





The Mission Slingbacks by Fergie
$109.00

These 4 inch peep toe Mary Jane pumps give off so much sexiness! Not to mention the color is bold enough to light up any room. I also, love that this shoe comes in different colors; Blue, Taupe, Black & Magenta.

Talk about versatility!





Wire Cuff by Charlotte Russe
$4.00

I think it's needless to say that this ensemble requires very little accessorizing. But for the girl who wants a little extra flair this silver bangle is just what she needs.

And it's only four bucks! Definitely taking beauty on a budget to new heights.





The complete look. I bet you're ready to hit the town now!









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15 September 2009

Myth Busters: Bad Things That Are GOOD For Your Skin

We've all heard the myths and I'm pretty sure that at some point in our lives, maybe your mom or someone else has given you stern advice on the things you should stay far far away from in order to maintain a clear complexion. One of the main things my mother would always tell me is to "lay off the sodas" because they aren't good for you or your skin. I must say through the years her words have ALWAYS come back to bite me in the butt when I do the opposite of what she's told me. Hey, I'm hardheaded. Don't judge me. LOL!

I think it's pretty clear that things such as soda can be the culprit behind those ugly breakouts that just won't go away. Or could that be just a myth? I'll let you be the judge. I spotted these fun facts in this months issue of Glamour Magazine. You wouldn't believe some of the naughty little things that they claim are actually good for you. Find out what made the list, below...




Chocolate:


Oh my! Not to sure about this one but according to their study they claim that women who consumed 3.5 ounces of dark chocolate daily for 12 weeks experienced less dryness in their skin, better blood flow and the antioxidant's even created resistance to sun damage.


According to another study on CNN they claim that chocolate can also create a happier heart, better blood pressure and increase blood flow to the brain which might even boost your memory, attention span, reaction time, and problem-solving skills.


Off to Godiva!!! LOL! 


 




Fruit Juice:


Ut Oh!!! I'm such a culprit when it comes to this one. One of my fave fruit juices is Berry Minute Maid. This is another one my mom warned me about. While the sugar & calories aren't necessarily good for you, believe it or not most of your fave fruity drinks are packed with antioxidants.


Did you know that fruits such as papaya, oranges, lemons & pomegranates can act as antidotes to high blood pressure? Fruits & Vegetables act as scavengers to our bodies and drive away harmful & toxic waste. For info on more helpful fruits and their curative properties, read more about it here.



Oil-rich Cleansers:

Oooh-Wee! Gotta admit I'm VERY skeptical about this one. Especially being someone with overly oily skin, it just seems taboo to use products that may increase the intensity of the problem. 

But, according to dermatologist, oil-rich cleansers can actually HELP oily skin. "Cleansers that contain emulsifying oils, such as vitimen E or castor oil can breakdown and dissolve dirt without over drying it, like harsh cleaners can"

Sweat:

This is definitely a common concern. I think we (women) have the tendency to associate sweat with being a contributing factor to breakouts during workouts. So some even reduce intense exercise to avoid skin irritation.

This is another myth! Doctors claim that perspiration is GOOD for the skin. It opens pores, releases dirt and generally encourages skin to function properly. 



French Fries:

"Yeah, Right!" <-- That was my first reaction when I spotted this little teaser on the list.  

Their NOT actually good for your skin but contrary to popular belief their not bad for it either. French Fries & other greasy fools (even sodas) don't cause pimples. 

One of the biggest myths is that Acne is caused by what you eat. Is this true? Yes and No.  I'm still a firm believer in the saying "you are what you eat". Bottom line, if you eat healthier more than likely your skin will maintain a healthier glow, no science to that! 

However, acne is actually cause by over production of sebum (oil) and obstruction of the pores. The amount of sebum produced by the skin is is regulated by hormones only, not food. 
Not sure if I want to believe that 100% but good to know!







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09 September 2009

Wednesday's Weekly Obsession: The Rodeo Show Satchel


One of the best perks of having a Beauty blog is the Endless Variety!!!
Beauty goes far beyond just skin care & cosmetics, which is why I've chosen to do a weekly spotlight featuring Fab Finds and my current Obsession's of the moment.

This Weeks Obsession is the Rodeo Show Satchel by Jessica Simpson. I definitely spotted this hot little number by pure fate. As soon as I walked in the mall, the purse Gods gravitated me right towards it. There was a majestic glowing aura around it and....Okay Okay maybe that's not EXACTLY the way it happened but hey ask anyone who knows me, I am the bag & accessory Queen...




I actually bought this bag at Belk's over the weekend and I've been in love with it ever since. From the color to the design, it has fierceness written all over it, and don't let the pics fool you, this satchel is a pretty decent size and quite spacey.

$108.00

While I'm no newbie to Jessica Simpson's Collection, this is my first time actually indulging in it and I must say I'm impressed! Jessica's line features, Shoes, Handbags, Dresses, Jewelry, Fragrance and the list goes on.



Check out a few of my Bonus Faves from her collection:




Josephine Strappy Pumps

$128.00


The sexy Josephine is a platform with attitude. Features a stacked heel and platform, edgy stud details throughout, and a man made sole. Available Colors: Bronze Metallic, Black Intense Nappa.

I love these! They give such a hardcore & sexy edge!







Love to Love 2 Tone Earrings

$18.00


These flirty heart piece earrings are perfect for spicing up a casual look. I absolutely love the mix of bronze and silver. Lots of versatility! I'm keeping these beauties on my wish list.
Color: 2 Tone Worn Metal









Runway Satchel

$88.00

Take over the Runway with this lovely Jessica Simpson satchel. Its framed entry is chic, but the flirty, feminine ruffle detailing adds a little fashionable punch to its look. The attachable strap offers another carrying option. Colors: Python, Black, Iron, Saddle, Brown & Violet






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