Sometimes a Shirt, Sometimes a Beach Cover Up

I originally purchased this top two years ago from Express. The hippie look was in, and the color was divine. I used to wear it with tight, very flared cotton jeans. Then the hippie look was a bit out, the top became a fabulous beach cover up. It's a crinkly gauzy cotton, dried quickly and already had a wrinkled finish so didn't look bad damp and smashed at the bottom of a tote.

Something lately made me bring it back to wardrobe status. I have it paired with my longed jeans - lowrise bootcut from The Gap in a dirty vintage wash. Enzo black boots. Two purple beaded necklaces from Express, gold chandelier earrings from Express.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder. A bit of Almay bronzer on the face for color, Nars Orgasm blush - just a hint on the cheeks. On the eyes is The Body Shop's Fawn Pearl on the lid, and their Damson color on the crease and along both lash lines. Of course a heavy dose of MAC's X mascara. On the lips is Sally Hansen's Champagne Toast lip gloss with The Body Shop's Beech liner pencils over it.

I am timid to wear long tops, tunics and dresses over jeans. I am short, I am not thin, and I am curvy. Long tops often stunt a person and hide the curves, leaving just bulk. However I needed change without blowing my budget and I am glad I wore this. I have received multiple compliments in the office from all types of people. Every time I break a fashion "rule" I am always happy with the results. Don't expect me to be in a belly top or gaucho pants any time soon, but every so often I will wear something that is not typically "flattering" for my body type. Why not, life is short and so am I!

Allie Don't Feel Good

She didn't take a shower, she didn't fix her hair. She didn't put on a ton of makeup, and her clothing choice isn't too stellar. Allie stayed up late with husband who doesn't have to work today. We watched movies, had marital relations and drank very strong Grey Goose and tonics and fed each other sushi. It was a lovely evening, but resulted in a less than lovely Monday.


Black merino v-neck from Ann Taylor. White ribbed tank from J. Crew.

I know, I know I despise the look of a tank under a sweater - it is so childish and suburban and stupid. You never see celebrities or fashionistas with tanks under their tops. They either accept their cleavage or don't purchase the top. I feel this fashion was created for little girls trying to dress like Britney but their parents are trying to cover their little bits. A tank under the belly top is like the bike shorts we wore under short skirts and babydoll dresses in the 80's. Lame and just for kids or people insecure with their feminine curves.

But I am sick and I am tired and I don't feel pretty and I have a chill. So I wear a tank under my sweater for comfort, not an attempt at fashion. I do like gray, black and white with silver jewelry - nice impact, but normally I wouldn't achieve it in this manner.

So the pants are Tahari. The shoes are black leather pumps from B.P./Nordstrom. Silver hoops and silver cuff - my jewelry uniform. I wore an aquamarine pashmina with this to ward off chill in the drafty office. Lovely contrast to the neutral drab colors.

Hair? Hair is not even brushed. It is yanked up into a messy topknot with a black covered elastic. no frills, no fuss, no fashion. Pure function.

Makeup? L'Oreal True Match foundation. A touch of Chanel concealer because I am running out. I ran out of my MAC concealer, I ordered more and they accidentally sent me a foundation stick. I am desperately in need of a trip to the mall pronto. I wore Almay bronzer in place of blush because I looked sickly, sallow and pale. No blush because I feared I was actually sick and didn't want o be looking more flushed or feverish than necessary. A touch of Lancome's Juicy Tubes in Daiquiri on the lips, Clinique Snow in the corners of the eyes, The Body Shop's Fawn Pearl on the lids, and a good coat of MAC's X mascara on the Shu Eumura'd curled lashes.

Hot stuff.

I hope to be far more fashionable on tomorrow.

I cannot believe I wore my hair this way. I always said that the adult women who always wear their hair in pony tails and top knots are those who have a bad hair cut. Nah, just dirty hair this time.

Speaking of which, I do need to schedule my routine trim......

Super Casual Friday

So I should be more dressed up but this has been a very taxing week at work and damnit, I didn't feel like it!

Green tee shirt from Glarkware. Red shetland crew cardigan from a thrift store. My beloved fave lowrise bootcut jeans in a vintage wash from The Gap. Gray-blue and orange trainers from new Balance. I put on silver hoops and a silver cuff bracelet after the pictures were taken.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation and concealer. Almay bronzer as blush. On eyes I have a gray shadow from the Body Shop on the lids and under the lash line. A charcoal color from the Body Shop is in the crease. Black kohl liner on the inner rims and on the lash line of top and bottom lashes. MAC X mascara in black. On the lips is Sally Hansen gloss in Champagne Toast with Beech lip liner from The Body Shop over the gloss.

Hair is dirty, straightened in the front with an iron. No additional product added.

Mascaras for the Nancy Drews of the World

Here is an email from one of my friends. I decided to post it here and my response because it could prove quite useful to many of you readers. If you ever have a question, I would be more than happy to answer some of them for you on here! And if you try any of these products, do let me know your reviews. My friend decided to order the Stila and the Almay, I'll let you know the results!


As you know, I am a strawberry blonde, with very fair skin and pale blue eyes. I find that black mascara is far too harsh with my coloring, and most browns are pretty much black anyway. I have been buying an auburn mascara from L’Oreal for years, but they have recently discontinued it. Anyway, I think the color was a bit too red and made me look tired. I even tried the clear mascaras – they didn’t do a thing. What does a fair haired girl do?


Women would kill for your coloring – celebrities like Nicole Kidman are famous for it! It does prove difficult when purchasing makeup. The foundations are not pale enough, the blushes are too potent and the mascaras are all made for those who want thick thick glossy black fringe. That may be fun for a night out, but for day those with fairer coloring need a fairer colored mascara.

I did a bit of research, auburn mascara probably wasn’t the best look – red colors around the eyes do make the eyes look tired and pink. With pale eyes, colored mascaras may be too intense of a look and look too dramatic and artistic for everyday. It’s true, many “brown” mascaras are actually just warmer shades of black, and still too intense for your face. Here are a few brands that sell softer brown colors that would work with your coloring:

Lancome’s Defincils mascara doesn’t clump, gives separated, defined lashes that would highlight, not drown out your fair blue eyes. Their Brown color is a nice medium color that would be quite flattering. Defincils also comes in waterproof for those special occasions where a few tears may be shed. I for example wore this mascara on my wedding day.

Stila’s Major Lash mascara is made to be layered. It keeps the lashes soft and separated, and not only does it come in a nice soft brown, it even has a Taupe color for the very fair haired blondes!

For a very subtle, natural look an option is Sephora’s Lash and Eyebrow mascara. This product gives just a hint of color, but a bit more definition than bare lashes. The product comes in both Blonde and Brown colors!

Almay’s Intense I-Color Volumizing mascara is made with a shorter brush to prevent those dreaded clumps. They offer great colors like Raisin and Brown for the fairer skinned who want to play with color!

Hopefully some of these options will work for you and your coloring!

Keep and Toss

Trends may come and trends may go. How does one know what to keep and what to donate? How do you know what is worthy of wardrobe real estate, what should be paced away in the attic, and what should be thrown in a bag for Goodwill?
Here are a few tried and true rules for some of those wardrobe items that may be way past their due date.

What to Toss: Old ratty bras with breaking down elastic, grubby straps, wires poking into your breast bone or arm pit. Bras that are too large, too small, make you too saggy or too conical. Underwear that is stretched out, full of holes, digging into your skin or itchy. Why keep what is unflattering, uncomfortable or gross? You slip on your purse, it grabs your shirt’s neckline and suddenly that dingy dirty white bra strap with the fuzz balls and the safety pin to keep it at the right adjustment is on FULL DISPLAY. Bras are not cheap, but if you wash them correctly, treat them gently and replace them when they or your shape changes, you will never be embarrassed come a car accident or one night stand.
What to Keep: that strapless bra you bought for a bridesmaid dress but doubt you will ever wear again (you probably will, and it doesn’t take up much room), the minimizer, the push up that makes tanks look great, the camisole that came with the sheer shirt you donated to Goodwill, the tank with the built in bra that is a tad revealing. Pretty much keep every camisole you own. If they are in good shape and fit well, there may come a need. The other day I purchased one of the popular lace tops that are everywhere for Spring. It required a camisole, something I do not often wear. Luckily I kept a winter white synthetic camisole with adjustable spaghetti straps that I purchased about ten years ago. Still in great condition, the camisole made the outfit work and I didn’t have to make a mad dash to the shopping mall. Camisoles, specialty bras and control garments may have been worn with the plan to only wear once with that dastardly dress of outfit. However, save your money and store those undergarments – they may be needed again and far better to wear what you own than go through the misery of underthings shopping once again.

What to Toss: Any tarnished or peeling costume jewelry, that one lone earring that has been missing it’s mate for months, the brooch with the missing rhinestone, the costume bracelet with the missing charm and the broken clasp, every rubber ‘save the world” bracelet you have purchased in the past 18 months (that is not jewelry, you can prove your dedication to a charity in much more rewarding ways than a piece of gaudy plastic on your wrist).
What to Keep: Pretty much anything else in your jewelry box. Every time I get rid of a necklace or pin, I find it comes back into fashion less than a decade later. Brooches, large hoops, chunky turquoise rings, charm bracelets, even pop-beads; they all go in and out of favor. Again, store them and save yourself a bunch of dough come when they are back in favor. Wrap in cotton or tissue; costume jewelry store in a Ziploc bag to prevent tarnishing. Before storing, make sure each piece is in working order and in good condition. It would be quite disappointing to open up that box of jewelry, ready to pull out those chandelier earrings to find that one is missing a few beads.

What to Toss: All those oversized tee shirts from every 5K, bar crawl, vacation resort, basketball game and college reunion you have been to. You know you have a huge pile of these, often never worn. They are unflattering, cheesy and useless. They should only be worn to wash the dog, paint the kitchen or clean out the attic. Save your $16 at the next walkathon or better, donate the money directly to the charity you are supporting (or buy a round of beers at that bar crawl!).
What to Keep: Tee shirts from concerts and from momentous occasions (Million Mom March, a tee from the Superbowl signed by a VIP). I regret all the concert tee shirts I had from the 80’s and tossed because I was into different music – they would be so fun to wear now, and to show to my future kids. And the momentous tee shirts – what a great thing to pass down to your kin or in a pinch sell on eBay.

What to Toss: Banana clips, scrunchies, pony tail elastics with gumball plastic doo-hickies on them, the butterfly clips your salon uses to hold back hair, any barrettes with pre-assembled bows glued to it, the extra plastic clips that were meant to hold in your hot rollers but somehow get clipped to your purse or your drive shaft and go in your hair at the grocery store and the elastic around the Sunday Edition that somehow got on your wrist and then in your hair as you were cooking dinner.
What to Keep: Three hair clips – the small claw types in tortoise or black – one for the car, one for the gym, one for the home. If your hair is that unruly where you need a clip on a daily basis, then you need a new haircut. You can also keep any decorative barrettes and clips (think rhinestones, jet beading, delicate jewelry for the hair), accordion headbands, leather, enamel, wood and tortoiseshell hair accessories in good shape (clips, chopsticks, barrettes, headbands), and covered elastic “ouchless” bands made specifically for hair. Your hair is your best accessory, covering it in ratty scarves, dated clips and cheesy barrettes do not do it or you justice. A great outfit can be ruined by a scrunchie. Did you ever see the SITC episode where Carrie says she can tell a person is a tourist by wearing a scrunchie? Think about it. You never see a celebrity, a society person, a stylish woman on the street with a scrunchie or a bow barrette.

What to Toss: Those stinky leather pumps with the peeling sole, chunky heel and the dowdy toe box. Ratty tennis shoes that cannot be cleaned no matter how many times they take a trip in the washer, any pleather shoes more than a year old, jelly sandals, the super duper stacked flip flops, any shoe that is too big, too small, too damaged or too uncomfortable to get any wear.
What to Keep: The shoes you love except for the broken buckle, the worn heel, the thin soles. These things can easily be mended by a cobbler, and there is usually a shoe repair shop in many larger shopping malls and train stations. If you love the shoes, and the shoes love you back, baby them. Shoes are worth the price if you get them reheeled and resoled each season, store shoes with trees and stuff tall boots with paper in the off-season. If wedges, stilettos, chunky heels, flats, pointy or round toes are out of fashion, there’s a good chance they’ll come back in style. If you love them and they are in great shape, hold on to them. If they aren’t back in fashion after five years, you then can consider donating them.

What to Toss: Jeans that are white washed, tapered, pleated, torn (and not in the hipster Abecrombie way, in the old jeans that fell apart way or snagged on a rusty nail way), at or above your ankle bone, have a zipper on the ankle, have lace cut outs down the thigh or any other weird overly decorative design, jeans that have a missing button, a broken zipper, a hole or patch in the bum or crotch. Jeans that originally belonged to your husband but you took as your own so you’d have something to wear, jeans that cut you in the stomach so you take them off and are covered with big red welts on your tummy, jeans so low rise or loose that your underwear is always showing, and any jeans with the logo Chic! Or Bongo or Gloria Vanderbilt in a prominent location.
What to Keep: Your Levi’s 501’s that you have had for twelve years. Those suckers will never go out of style. Dark denim in a flattering cut. Boot cut jeans – they may not be super popular now, but they are almost always flattering. Jeans that make your ass look amazing – even if they are purple denim or with feathers on the trim – if the look comes back you are armed with a flattering pair. Save the jeans that make you look and feel good, not just one or the other. So often we settle for a mediocre pair that is not flattering, well cut or comfortable. When you find a gem, hold on to them. Jeans will last longer when not put in the dryer, and embellishments will look newer longer if the jean is dry cleaned or washed in the gentle cycle inside-out.

What to Toss: Socks with holes in the toes, threadbare heels, faded so more green that black. Stockings with an unnatural “nude” color and an unnatural sheen. While on the subject of stockings, toss the white ones too. Scrap all the little black anklets and any socks that are so tight at the top they leave red marks on your ankles at the end of the day.
What to Keep: Fishnets, textured and patterned hose. If they are not in now, they will come back. I have several pairs of fishnets that I have had over a decade – I pull them out when the fashion (or my spirit) dictates it is right. Keep trouser and regular socks that are in good working order (they match, they are in good shape, they fit). If you wear socks with pants, make sure they compliment the pants and shoe, and make sure that even when you cross your legs, you don’t see skin. Fun and silly socks are for casual occasions, and white socks are never appropriate for any situation that is not athletic.

Working Lunch

So I want to look nice. Nothing too conservative or severe due to the attendees, but still professional.

Orange-red silk knit tank from Banana Republic. Orange-red stone necklace from a boutique at the beach. Denim blazer from Ann Taylor. Black textured trousers from Ann Taylor Loft. Black pumps from B.P./Nordstrom.

Hair was dried in a hurry with a paddle bruch, then a round brush on the edges. I was running so late this morning! Some BioSilk on the ends so they don't look grossly raggedy.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel powder and concealer. Nars Orgasm (just a little) on the cheeks. Eyes? Well a real hodgepodge as that I was rushing and didn't have a plan in my head. Some Clinique Snow in the corners/tear ducts. The same brown as my brow powder on the crease and around the lash line. A touch of a shimmery peach/beige over all this. MAC's X mascara in black. On the lips is just some Cranberry Lip Balm from The Body Shop.

Not my finest fashion or beauty effort, but I look presentable and I was not late for work!

Fashion Funk

I apologize to all you loyal readers for being negligent in my fashion dutues - life outside of fashion has been quite hectic, and these posts are not quick and easy writes. I do promise to have another post prior to the end of the month, so hang tight my darlings!

Wednesday

Black acrylic sweater from Kenzie with flared sleeves and exxagerated neckline. Denim trousers from Ann Taylor. Black boots from Enzo. Silver hoops and cuff.

Hair is not washed from yesterday's curls. A few pieces were put around a medium-barrel curling iron, and then the whole head brushed out with a wooden-bristled brush for retro volume and soft curls.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder, Benefit's f...y...eye! on the lids for a smooth look. Nars Orgasm lightly dusted on the tops of the cheeks. Clinique Snow in the corners of the eyes, a touch of Garden Botanika ivory shadow on the lids. MAC's X mascara and Maybelline's black liquid Ultra Liner on the top lash line. On the lips is Cover Girl lipstick in a bright fuschia pink put over a matte lip balm for a sheer finish.

My New Top

Welcome Spring! So it may be below freezing outside, that doesn't mean I can't latch on to the trends for the warmer months. It's all in the delivery, right?

White lace shirt from Banana Republic (got it at the Outlet store, think made specifically for the outlet). Under it is a winter white synthetic camisole I got from Express. I could call it "vintage," the shell is so darn old I bought it before I worked there! So we're looking at a top about 10 years old, but still kicking. Some things never need to leave your wardrobe, they are such standards. I have gotten rid of the matching synthetic long sleeved shirt I used to wear open over the shell, but the shell I stillw ear, along with it's sisters in plum, orange-red, black, brown and tan.

Anyhoo, back to the outfit. the top came with a white satin ribbon at the waist, but I decided to switch it out for thie wearing with a ribbon of black grosgrain (grosgrain is big this Spring). You can buy a whole spool of ribbon at the local craft or fabric store for $2.50 - plenty to make a belt, a bow for your hair and some left over to wrap a present! On the bottom is a pair of black Triacetate trousers from Ann Taylor. Black B.P./Nordstrom pumps.

Face is L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder, Nars Orgasm on the cheeks. I did a touch of The Body Shop's Illuminating Lotion mixed in with the foundation for a dewey look. The eyes have Clinique's Snow in the corners/tear ducts, a touch of the Body Shop's Damson in the crease. MAC's X Mascara and Maybelline's Black Ultra Liner liquid liner on the upper lashes.

On the lips is the Body Shop's limited edition lip gloss in Petal with Maybelline's Ripe Plum lipstick over it.

Hair is curled - Marc Anthony Get Curly gel, touch of Pantene Volumizing Spray on wet hair. Dried on low setting while curling around fingers and scrunching. then a curling iron to the front (which doesn't like to curl on it's own) and held in place with Marc Anthony Humidity Spray.

Super Casual Friday

Today I had training, and the last time I went to this facility for training, there were people there in pyjama pants. When in Rome... well I just am not the type of woman to wear her sleeping garments in public, but this is the closest I get to casual. I call it Beach Casual Chic.

Green tee shirt from Old Navy (I adored this color so much I bought three of these shirts - i still have one unworn with the tags on. Not the best cut, but the color is divine). My beloved vintage wash lowrise bootcut jeans from The Gap. Red pointy flats from Bronx. Cream hooded belted cardigan from Express. Two coral glass necklaces from a beach boutique, wood and glass bead necklace from Claire's. Silver hoops and cuff bracelet.

Hair is straightened with the iron since I let it air-dry the night before. Touch of spray wax, but very little. It was doing the piecey look on it's own.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel powder and concealer. Touch of Almay bronzer on the cheeks like blush. Bit of Clinique Snow shadow int he inner corners of the eyes, lashes curled and a layer of MAC X mascara. On the lips is The Body Shop's lip balm in passion fruit.

Thursday

And yet again, I am the camera slacker.

So you get this fabu picture of me driving to work in my Land's End parka.

Brown merino v-neck from The Gap. Pink, salmon, ivory and brown tweed trousers from Ann Taylor. Shades of brown snakeskin pumps from Nine West. Gold chandelier earrings from Target. Gold bangle.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder. Almay bronzer as blush. The Body Shop Fawn Pearl shadow on the lids. Many coats of MAC X mascara. A touch of Sally Hansen Chanpagne Toast gloss on the lips.

Hard day. Didn't sleep well and was already tired yesterday. Running late today and there isn't much pepe in my step. Hence the super perky picture. You can see my J. Crew leather tote in the background with today's lunch popping out - peek into my real world. Thai Kitchen, a cosmetic bag froM The Body Shop filled to the brim with all kinds of lipglosses, lip balms, powder, eye drops, contacts case, nail file, trident gum and plenty of quarters.

Wednesday... and The Camera is Downstairs

I am such a slug. Nah, it's not about being a slug, it's about being late. To run downstairs, get the camera, run upstairs with the dog on my heels, get all posed in the office, close the door, have the dog push it open, let him in, get settled, pose and the dog scratches to be let out, take the pictures and run downstairs, well that makes me 5 minutes later for work.


So you get these lovely pictures instead.

Black merino turtleneck from Ann Taylor. Dark stretch bootcut jeans from The Gap. Black boots from Enzo. Silver hoops, cuff and pendant. The necklace was snagged from my mom, probbaly bought by her at TJ Maxx in 1989.

Hair is straight from the blowdryer, touch of the iron. no product other than my Sexy Straight Hair blam and my Pantene Volumizing spritz while wet.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder. Nars Orgasm blush. Garden Botanika ivory shadow on the lids, Clinique Snow shadow in the tear ducts. Black Maybelline Ultra Liner liquid liner. Black MAC X mascara. On the lips is Sally Hansen gloss in Pink Champagne with a bit of Beech Body Shop lip liner over it.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Raspberry merino v-neck from Ann Taylor Loft. Denim trousers from Ann Taylor (just came in the mail yesterday!), two anthracite and bead necklaces from Express. Black Enzo boots.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder. Nars Orgasm on the cheeks. On the lids is Champagne Pink shadow from the Body Shop on the lids, Crown Jewels shadow from L'Oreal in the crease and along the lash line. On the lips is Maybelline lipstick in Ripe Plum.

Hair is straightened with the iron, touch of spray wax on the tips.

Monday

Boy I didn't feel like going to work today. At first I was dressed in a ribbed crewneck sweater and jeans, but then I remembered right after work my husband and I are double dating with dear friends for our annual Valentine's Day dinner at an Irish restaurant near their house. we can't meet tomorrow because the wife of the other couple has a soccer game tomorrow night (soccer on V Day! Terrible!). So I made a quick switch, trying to look festive, corporate and comfortable all at once.
Black triacetate suiting trousers from Ann Taylor Loft. Salmon pink silk knit scoop neck cap-sleeve shell from Ann Taylor Loft. Denim blazer from Ann Taylor. Two coral glass chip necklaces from a boutique at the beach. Gold chandelier earrings from Express. Gold bangle. Black boots from Enzo.

Hair is straightened with the dryer, then the tips with the iron. Touch of spray wax on the tips.

Makeup is Smashbox primer, L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder, Nars Orgasm blush, The Body Shop's Fawn Pearl shadow on the lids, L'Oreal Holographic shadow in Crown Jewel in the crease and along the lash line, touch of Clinique Snow shadow in the tear ducts. MAC X mascara.

Saturday

Saturday I went to a friend's house for a Body Shop at-home party. Afterwards dinner at Chevy's with the husband and his best friend. The other day the hubby mentioned he likes my hair curly and wished I did it more often. Since I had the time to do it on a weekend, I thought it would be nice to treat him.

Brown merino v-neck from the Gap. Dirty vintage washed lowrise bootcut jeans from the Gap. Brown snakeskin pumps from Nine West. Gold chandelier earrings from Express, gold bangle.

Makeup is Smashbox primer, L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder, Almay bronzer as blush, Fawn Pearl shadow from The Body Shop on the lids and under the lower lashes. Bit of Clinique Snow shadow in the tear ducts. Plenty of MAC X mascara on the lashes. On the lips is Sally Hansen gloss in Champagne Toast with The Body Shop's lip liner in mocha colored in over the gloss.

Friday

Today I had training offsite. Very casual atmosphere.

White ribbed tank from J. Crew. Turquoise tissue-weight cotton hooded tunic from Old Navy. Lowrise Bootcut jeans from The Gap. Gray-blue and orange trainers from New Balance.

hair straightened with an iron, bit of Sexy Straight Hair spray wax on the tips.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC studio stick concealer, Chanel powder. Nars Orgam blush,The Body Shop's Fawn Pearl shadwo with a touch of Clinique's Snow shadow in the tear ducts. Lots of mascara - new one - MAC's X Mascara (I like it, it's very good at separating, lengthening. Feathery).

Thursday

Not too great of a picture. I forgot my camera in the car.

Pinkish salmon turtleneck merino sweater from Ann Taylor. Brown stretch twill trousers from Ann Taylor with fine pinstripes of ivory, cherry and pink. Camel leather pumps from B.P./Nordstrom. Gold chandelier earrings from Express, thin gold bangle.

Makeup is Smashbox primer, L'Oreal True Match foundation, Chanel concealer and powder, Benefit F..Y..Eye! eyelid primer, The Body Shop Fawn Peark shadow, Black Zoom Lash mascara from MAC, Nars Orgasm blush, Goldie gloss in Blossom.

Tuesday

Tuesday, my camera's battery was dead.

Red ribbed merino cowl/turtle sweater from Ann Taylor. The same Gap jeans worn on Sunday, and the same red pointy flats.

Hair is straight, touch of spray wax on the ends.

Makeup is basic - L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC concealer, Chanel powder, Almay bronzer in place of blush, bit of ivory Stila shadow in the tear ducts, mascara. On lips is a pink limited edition lipgloss from Origins that I found at the bottom of my makeup case. Not too exciting - i am feeling quite ho-hum today.

Monday

Green merino/lycra v-neck sweater from J. Crew. Ivory sueded cotton trousers from Ann Taylor. Camel pumps from B.P./Nordstrom. Short pearl necklace from Monet, longer pearl necklace from The Limited. Pearl studs from The Limited.

Makeup is Smashbox primer, L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel powder, Nars Orgasm blush. Fawn Pearl shadow from The Body Shop on the lids, a bit of ivory shadow from Sila on the tear ducts. MAC Zoom Lash Mascara. Touch of Ripe Plum lipstick from Maybelline applied as a stain.

Hair is straightened, touch of Sebastian Mud on the tips of texture.

Superbowl Sunday

Casual party at a friend's house. Eight of us, Jello shooters in Seahawks and Steelers colors, crab dip, chili, brats and beer.










Gray CBGB vintage tee, red shetland crewneck cardigan from a thrift store. Gap Straight Cut Bootcut jeans from The Gap, red pointy flats from Bronx.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel powder, Nars Orgasm blush, Clinique shimmery shite shadow in the tear ducts, Maybelline liquid liner, MAC Zoom Lash mascara in black. On lips is Lancome juicy Tubes in Exposure, with Beech lip liner from The Body Shop filled in over it.

Hair is straightened, then given texture with Sexy Straight Hair spray wax. Slight touch of BioSilk to the top for shine. Tried the ColorVive shampoo and conditioner and really like it a lot. Much more hydrating than Halo (and much cheaper too!).

I Need To Keep My Camera Upstairs

White ribbed tank from Old Navy. Rust-colored shetland crew cardigan from a thrift store. Four necklaces (wood one looped, two coral glass ones and a silver one with three strands). Silver hoops and cuff. Dark Straight Bootcut jeans from the Gap. teal sueded wedges.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, BeneFit f..y..eye! on my lids. Nars Orgasm blush, The Body Shop Fawn pearl shadow int he crease and along the lash line, MAC's Zoom Lash mascara in black. on the lips is a pale pink gloss from Sally Hansen and over it I colored in with The Body Shop's lip liner in Beech.

hair was washed with Jonathan shampoo (got a sample of his shampoo for dry hair) and my Halo Volumizing conditioner. hair felt amazing, but a bit unruly. Added Sexy Straight Hair balm, blew it straight and used my iron on some of the unruly places. Still with the shampoo change and the rainy weather, my hair did not want to be straight, did not want to listen. I hit the edges with the Sexy Short Hair wax, but knew the cute look wouldn't last. As you see by the picture taken in my foyer, it didn't last walking down the stairs. Oh well, it's casual Friday.

Spring 2006

It's Spring! It's Spring! Okay, so the groundhog saw his shadow and there is snow on the ground in many States, but in the malls and on the pages of fashion mags, it is Spring. As with any season, designers decided a year ago as to what we will be wearing, and certain themes and strong pieces have been deemed important for the next few months. I've tried to weed through the haute couture and choose a few pieces that an everyday woman can add to her wardrobe to make it more modern, more updated and more Spring!

A New Pair of Shoes – So generic of a suggestion, but shoes are a major fashion focus this Spring. Big looks are patent leather, stacked wood heels and color. The peep toe, the rounded toe and the wedge looks are still fresh, but the shoe is a cleaner look from the artsy embellished trend of the winter.

Wood stacked heels are HUGE and will be on all the “It Girls” this spring. The shoe is not clunky as in the late 90’s, but not as thin and delicate as recent. The shoe is sturdy yet feminine, strappy and summery – a great contrast to the floaty spring dresses on the runway.

Patent leather is for daytime, nighttime, anytime. Upgrade your basic black pumps with a round-toe patent version. Consider a candy color to compliment your favorite all-black suits. No color is off limits – pink, yellow, white, red and turquoise are all acceptable.

Having an accent shoe is a big look with the neutrals on the runway – pair your khaki shift dress with a cherry red ankle-strap heels, your white suit with apple green peep toe pumps, your black evening dress with robin’s egg blue t-straps.

White Pants – I don’t care what your mother or grandmother told you – white pants do not have to make you look bigger on the bottom. White and light color bottoms can actually be quite slimming and flattering. It all depends on what cut and fabric you choose.

This season is showing a lot of nautical, military and safari influences. The best compliment to these trends (and to your body) is a flat front trouser that stars right below your belly button. Slightly wide, straight legs and little ornamentation.

White trousers need to be lined. It does not matter what weight of the fabric, if they are not lined, something will show. It may not be your underwear, but it will be the seams, the stitching, the pocket liners. Lack of lining cheapens the trouser.

As for fabric, the look is crisp. Heavier cottons, sateens and canvases give the best look and fall. These fabrics will hold up to sitting, standing and wearing all day without getting wrinkled and droopy.



A Neutral Dress – I cannot believe I am writing this. I stress the wearing of color – it adds personality to an outfit, it brings your emotions out and adds elegance to a basic piece. However this spring it is all about neutral colors, and it is all about the dress. A neutral colored dress can tackle both, and you can still keep your personality in your look.

This season shows all types of cuts – tent styles, lady-like shifts, shirtdresses, many strapless styles with anywhere from a-line to balloon skirts. Anything goes with the style, as long as it has a bit of femininity. As for fabric, silks, jerseys, linen and lace are all huge. Again, think feminine. Find what works for you.

As for what is considered neutral – anything from ivory to khaki to dove gray to mushroom works. Find a neutral that contrasts enough with your skin to make you not look naked, and make you not look ill.

Accessories are what will bring this dress to life. Match with some red heels, a green purse, an embroidered short jacket. Color comes from the details, and color will really pop against this basic. A neutral dress can go from wedding to shower to work with just a switch of accessories. It will also stick around in your wardrobe for several years.



Optic Print Skirt – Tons of designers were showing mod and optic prints on the runway for this season. Brown leaf silhouette on an ivory background, gray and steel blue dots on a white lawn, dizzying and detailed black and white prints swirling. This is the replacement for the funky printed skirt from fall. The cut and fabric is more feminine and flowing. Think silks, soft cottons, linens, chiffon layers. This season is all about feminine touches.

Full skirts are still popular, but they are not as voluminous as the gypsy skirts from last Summer. Think feminine. Pencil skirts, a-line to full silhouettes, anything from just above the knee to calf-length seems acceptable. This skirt can be worn with camisoles, sweaters and little jackets.



A Belt – The easiest way to update your tops? Cinch them at the waist. The runways showed belts from being pinky-thin to wide croco bands to even full satin ribbons tied in a bow. Black and white printed skirts were shown with black v-neck sweaters and a black croco belt. White lace jackets were over chiffon skirts with a seafoam green ribbon around the waist. Khaki linen shift dresses were jazzed up with red patent belts. Jersey dresses looked fresh with an obi-like band of fabric cinching the waist.

A belt is not for every figure, but if you have a straight or hourglass shape, you can really carry this look off. It’s an easy way to update your wardrobe and make it look fresh, trim and ladylike.




Subtle Shimmer – Unlike the glitz and bling of the past few seasons, this season is far more subtle. Brass instead of gold, pewter instead of silver. Also consider shimmery shades of olive, champagne, slate and apricot. Lurex twinsets, taffeta cigarette pants, silk jersey dresses, shantung Jackie O-esque skirt suits, leather sandals with wood heels.

Subtle shimmer looks fresh with neutrals and with white. Pair a lurex tank with a white pantsuit, a shantung skirt with a khaki silk shirt, a charmeuse blouse with a linen pantsuit, a silk jersey dress with a khaki leather and knit belt. My plan is to invest in a silk jersey dress for all the Spring showers, wedding and parties.



Trench Coat – This is something that is good to always have in your wardrobe. Luckily this season you can find a multitude of varieties. It does not need to be khaki; it does not even need to be double breasted. Look for a color and cut that is the most flattering, but still versatile. Stick to a neutral – khaki, gray, cadet blue, gray-green, cream or olive. These colors will be able to transition from spring to fall, can be dressy or casual, and will be a favorite classic in your wardrobe for years to come. This coat will be worn over dresses in all weather, over jeans or a suit in the rain or brisk spring breezes. The best length is something between knee and calf – you will find it to be the most versatile. To ensure the trench is functional as well as fashionable, make sure you purchase a water-resistant version.




Vintage Romantic Jacket – Say what? It is the best way to describe the look that is so hot this season – pale sunwashed colors, puffed sleeves, pleats, ruffles, unfinished hems, worn and soft fabrics. It is seen in lingerie inspired dresses, drop waist ruffled skirts, pegged bloomer-like shorts and distressed jacket. The easiest way to get this look and not spend a fortune is invest in a jacket. Beige, khaki, sand, dove gray, steel blue, sage green or a peach color will look great with chino trousers, jeans and fluid suiting pants. Pair it with a lace-trimmed camisole or sheer ruffly blouse for the full effect, with a silk knit shell for a work look or a ribbed tank for a cute outfit for drinks with the girls.

Thursday

I forgot to take my camera upstairs last night, was running late and didn't get a picture of the whole outfit. Oh well, you guys have sen it before.

Coral-pink merino turtleneck from Ann Taylor. Tan and coral-pink tweed trousers from Ann Taylor. Camel pumps from B.P./Nordstrom. Silver hoops, no cuff.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation (that I am really loving!), Chanel concealer and pressed powder. BeneFit's F..Y..Eye! on the lids, and a touch of shimmery white Clinique shadow in the tear ducts. Lots of black Zoom Lash mascara from MAC. Nars Orgasm on the cheeks and a pale shimmery pink gloss from Sally Hansen on the lips.

Hair is second day, and looks healthier. Blew the edges straight again, a touch of Bio Silk and then the Sexy Short Hair spray wax on the ends to give separation.

Wednesday

Raspberry merino v-neck from Ann Taylor Loft. Ivory trousers from Ann Taylor. Black boots from Enzo. Two beaded necklaces from Express. Silver cuff, no earrings.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation over Smashbox primer. Chanel wand concealer, Chanel pressed powder. Fawn Pearl shadow from The Body Shop below lower lash line and one lid. Black mascara. Touch of Nars Orgasm. On lips is Maybelline's lipstick (the sheer stuff in the pink tube) in Ripe Plum.

Hair was straightened, touch of Bio Silk and then Sexy Short Hair's Spray wax sprayed while fluffing hair to give texture.

Saw an old coworker from when I sold skincare and makeup and she said my face and hair looked excellent so i felt very good. Also my pants are a bit beggy due to weight loss/weight redistribution or what have you.