I am sorry my dearies for being so dreadful in logging my attire. This week has been horrendous work-wise and the last thing I have wanted to do after ten hours of typing proposals is visit the web and type some more.
I must say I am in desperate need of a camera because this week’s outfits have been terribly fabu!
Sunday:
Black v-neck stretchy sweater from Banana Republic. Denim trousers from Ann Taylor. Black thong heeled sandals from Mossimo. Two chunky turquoise necklaces from Target. Silver cuff.
Makeup was L’Oreal True Match foundation, Body Shop concealer, Chanel pressed powder, The Body Shop’s Bronzing Beads. On lips was The Body Shop’s Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Caramel. On the eyes was The Body Shop’s Warmth Shimmer Cubes and MAC X mascara in black. I was doing a Body Shop Party so I had to look the part!
Saturday:
Most of Saturday was spent in bed or doing chores. Friends came over in the evening for a cookout, I wore my Gap Straight Bootcut jeans in vintage wash, my beaded thong sandals from Seychelles, a white ribbed tank from J. Crew and a gray tissue-weight boatneck ¾ sleeve hip-length tee from Mossimo. Hair was air dried and looked not too bad. On my face had only a touch of L’Oreal True Match foundation mixed with Neutrogena oil-free moisturizer SPF 15, some MAC X mascara in black and The Body Shop’s Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Blush.
Friday:
Black stretch knit v-neck sweater from Banana Republic. Slim fit, underneath I wore my favorite Frederick’s of Hollywood push-up bra. Ladies with large breasts, do not discount FOH. Yes they sell stripper garb and hooker shoes, but they also cater to the large-breasted women who don’t want to wear lingerie that look like nursing bras and granny panties. They have some great bras that provide a lot of uplift and are sexy to boot.
Anyhoo, black sweater with my ivory sueded cotton bootcut trousers from Ann Taylor. On my feet are my black Steve Madden peep-tie pumps with a braided/strappy leather design in the front. I call them my Carmen Miranda shoes. My large tortoise shell necklace from Target and my silver cuff.
Hair was second-day dirty and ironed straight, a bit of Sebastian Mud on the tips for a shaggy look. Makeup was L’Oreal True Match foundation of Smashbox primer, The Body Shop’s concealer, Chanel powder, The Body Shop’s Bronzing Beads as cheek color, BeneFit’s f..y..eye! on the lids, a touch of ivory Stila shadow, black liquid liner from Maybelline and two coats of MAC X mascara on Sue Eumura curled lashes. On lips was Goldie’s lipgloss in Blossom.
Thursday:
Emerald green stretch hip-length v-neck sweater from Banana Republic over my denim trousers from Ann Taylor. Brown tooled leather hip belt from my mom’s 1970’s wardrobe and brown leather knotted leather heeled sandals from Target/Mossimo. Tree skinny gold bangles from Claire’s and gold chandelier earrings from Express.
Hair was straight – Pantene thickening spray and Sexy Straight Hair balm applied when damp. Hair straightened with a large boar bristle round brush and my dryer, then smoothed with a straightening iron. A bit of Sebastian Mud to the tips for a shaggy look. My new highlights and lowlights really stand out with the hair straight.
Makeup was L’Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel Pressed Powder. Eyes have the Warm Shimmer Cubes from The Body Shop – the beige on the lids, the chocolate on the crease and along the lash lines. Two coats of MAC X mascara in black. On the cheeks is Bare Minerals in Warmth. On the lips is the Body Shop’s Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Caramel.
Wednesday:
Wednesday I went to a concert after work so I was a bit more casual. Bright coral gauzy babydoll-style hippie tunic with crocheted lace trim. Two strands of coral glass chips around my neck, my silver cuff, my beloved vintage-look Gap Lowrise Bootcut jeans that are perfectly frayed at the hems. On my feet are ornately beaded tongs with a wood heel from Seychelles. I got them from the Victoria’s Secret catalog last summer.
Hair is curly – on damp hair I applied Pantene’s thickening spray and Suave’s curling mousse (a la Matrix). I dried with a diffuser and the dryer on low. I then hit the whole head of hair with Marc Anthony’s Strictly Curls Humidity Spray and then curled the unruly pieces with a curling iron.
Makeup was L’Oreal True Match foundation over Smashbox primer. MAC stick concealer and Chanel pressed powder. Benefit’s f…y...eye! on my lids. A wash of The Body Shop’s Bronzing Beads over the face for glow, concentrated on the cheeks. The Body Sop’s Warmth Shimmer Cubes on my lids and The Body Shop’s Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Caramel on my lips.
Tuesday:
Tuesday was my blue merino v-neck from J. Crew, my ivory and black zebra print skirt from Isaac Mizrahi for Target, and my teal suede wedges from Seychelles. Silver cuff bracelet, teal glass pendant on a white gold chain.
Hair was curly thanks to the Suave/Matrix line for curly hair. Makeup was L’Oreal True Match foundation, The Body Shop concealer, Chanel pressed powder. Nars Orgasm blush on cheeks. The Body Shop’s Sheer Strawberry Sheer Lipcolor on the lips. Eyes had Stila ivory shadow on the lids and corners of the eyes, a thick line of Maybelline’s Ultra Liner liquid liner in black and two coats of MAC X mascara in black.
April 30, 2006
April 24, 2006
Happy Monday
I really didn't feel like getting up today. The hubby stayed home from work last night, we had dinner and wine out on the deck, watching bats in the woods and seeing the sky turn dark. We then made camp on the living room floor, drank tea and watched Memoirs of a Geisha. I would have preferred to sleep in and snuggle with him....
Instead I am at work looking at a sunny sky through metal Venitian blinds, counting down to 5pm. I have an appointment tonight to get my hair highlighted and lowlighted - once done I will get the hubby to take pics with his fancy-dancy camera so I can share!
Today I am wearing an ultramarine blue tape yarn square-neck, cap sleeved sweater from Marshall's. Black blazer from Express circa 2000, denim trousers from Ann Taylor, teal glass pendant on thin white gold chain and silver cuff bracelet. Black leather thong heeled sandals from Mossimo/Target.
I am loving this new haircut - lots of layers and side-swept bangs. I used the Suave shampoo and conditioner that is like the Matrix line for curly hair. Then on towel dried hair, applied an egg-shaped amount of the complimenting curly hair mousse, spritzed with the Pantene Thickening spray. I dried with a diffuser, curling hair around my fingers and placing on the diffuser. Once completely dry, hit the whole head with a blast of Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Humidity Spray, then curled the unruly pieces with a curling iron, blew the bangs straight and flipped under with a boar bristle round brush and the dryer sans-diffuser.
Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel pressed powder, Bare minerals Warmth as bronzer (applied to face and to neck/collarbone). On eyes, I used The Body Shop's Granite on lids and around lower lash line. Curled lashes thanks to Shu Eumura, two coats of MAC X mascara in black and a bit of Black Liner from The Body Shop along lash lines for more smoky of a look. On lips is Lancome Juicy Tubes in Exposure.
Instead I am at work looking at a sunny sky through metal Venitian blinds, counting down to 5pm. I have an appointment tonight to get my hair highlighted and lowlighted - once done I will get the hubby to take pics with his fancy-dancy camera so I can share!
Today I am wearing an ultramarine blue tape yarn square-neck, cap sleeved sweater from Marshall's. Black blazer from Express circa 2000, denim trousers from Ann Taylor, teal glass pendant on thin white gold chain and silver cuff bracelet. Black leather thong heeled sandals from Mossimo/Target.
I am loving this new haircut - lots of layers and side-swept bangs. I used the Suave shampoo and conditioner that is like the Matrix line for curly hair. Then on towel dried hair, applied an egg-shaped amount of the complimenting curly hair mousse, spritzed with the Pantene Thickening spray. I dried with a diffuser, curling hair around my fingers and placing on the diffuser. Once completely dry, hit the whole head with a blast of Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Humidity Spray, then curled the unruly pieces with a curling iron, blew the bangs straight and flipped under with a boar bristle round brush and the dryer sans-diffuser.
Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel pressed powder, Bare minerals Warmth as bronzer (applied to face and to neck/collarbone). On eyes, I used The Body Shop's Granite on lids and around lower lash line. Curled lashes thanks to Shu Eumura, two coats of MAC X mascara in black and a bit of Black Liner from The Body Shop along lash lines for more smoky of a look. On lips is Lancome Juicy Tubes in Exposure.
April 21, 2006
Happy Friday!
It's yucky out, sort of sticky and warm, but room temperature in it's warmth. Humid, gray and gross.
I didn't wash my hair today, didn't even take a shower - I was a slacker and didn't go to the gym. The ringlets of yesterday were a rat's nest this morning. I took my large barrel curling iron and made the 'fro into flips and waves, sorta messy/rocker. Used Sebastian Mud to separate and BioSilk on the ends to make them look smooth.
My makeup is L'OReal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel pressed powder. I used Bare Minerals Warmth on my face as a bronzer (some on the collarbone and chest as well). The Body Shop's granite on the lids, lashes curled, two coats of MAC X mascara and a touch of The Body Shop's black kohl pencil on the edges of the eyes for a doe-eyed effect. Smudged with a Q-tip. Lancome's Juicy Tubes in Exposure on the lips.
Outfit is a black sweater tank/shell with a scoop neck from Ann Taylor Loft 2005. White denim safari jacket from The Gap. Straight Bootcut jeans in a dark vintage wash from The Gap. Two chunky turquoise short necklaces from Target. Silver cuff bracelet. My teal suede wedges from Seychelles (it's almost summer, I want to get my last wears of my winter shoes!).
I didn't wash my hair today, didn't even take a shower - I was a slacker and didn't go to the gym. The ringlets of yesterday were a rat's nest this morning. I took my large barrel curling iron and made the 'fro into flips and waves, sorta messy/rocker. Used Sebastian Mud to separate and BioSilk on the ends to make them look smooth.
My makeup is L'OReal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel pressed powder. I used Bare Minerals Warmth on my face as a bronzer (some on the collarbone and chest as well). The Body Shop's granite on the lids, lashes curled, two coats of MAC X mascara and a touch of The Body Shop's black kohl pencil on the edges of the eyes for a doe-eyed effect. Smudged with a Q-tip. Lancome's Juicy Tubes in Exposure on the lips.
Outfit is a black sweater tank/shell with a scoop neck from Ann Taylor Loft 2005. White denim safari jacket from The Gap. Straight Bootcut jeans in a dark vintage wash from The Gap. Two chunky turquoise short necklaces from Target. Silver cuff bracelet. My teal suede wedges from Seychelles (it's almost summer, I want to get my last wears of my winter shoes!).
April 20, 2006
Thursday
Black knit v-neck sweater from Banana Republic. Fatigue ripstop cotton skirt from J. Crew. Red stone necklace bought at a beach boutique. Red paisley wool/cotton bandanna in hair, tied at neck so looks like a headband. Red pointy flats from Bronx. My silver cuff bracelet.
Hair was done curly, thanks to Suave being the cheap version of Matrix. I let the bangs be sideswept in front of the headband, the rest is curls.
Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel powder. Bare Minerals Warmth as bronzer. On the lips is Lancome Juicy Tubes in Exposure. Eyes is a touch of The Body Shop's shadow in Pink Champagne, lashes curled with two coats of MAC X mascara and a thin line of black Ultra Liner by Maybelline.
I think I look cute, very collegiate, very springy. Several compliments ont he headband.
Hair was done curly, thanks to Suave being the cheap version of Matrix. I let the bangs be sideswept in front of the headband, the rest is curls.
Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel powder. Bare Minerals Warmth as bronzer. On the lips is Lancome Juicy Tubes in Exposure. Eyes is a touch of The Body Shop's shadow in Pink Champagne, lashes curled with two coats of MAC X mascara and a thin line of black Ultra Liner by Maybelline.
I think I look cute, very collegiate, very springy. Several compliments ont he headband.
April 19, 2006
Hunp Day!
The fashionista is BACK! I looked at myself in the mirror today and was pretty pleased with my reflection.
Yet again, the hairstyle looks better a few days after. I did it curly, and bought a new collection of products - Suave has a line that is like the curly line from Matrix, but only $1.57 each at your local Target. I bought the shampoo, conditioner, root lifter and curling mousse. Washed and conditioned, applied an egg-size bit of the mousse and a few sprays of my Pantene thickening spray. Dried the hair with an ionic dryer with diffuser. Then I sprayed the whole head with my Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Humidity Spray, then re-curled the unruly areas with a curling iron. I shaped the bangs with a boar bristle round brush and the dryer sans diffuser. It looks GREAT, I really like it!
So the outfit - white ribbed tank from J. Crew, my beloved denim trouers from Ann Taylor, my navy twill shrunken blazer from Talbots. Around the neck is a long strand of sea-green and pale gray-blue and teeny silver beads - thank you Target. Silver cuff on the wrist and my tan leather thong heels from Mossimo/Target. Not a thrilling set, but I think I look quite hip, work-appropriate but fun. Wish I had a happy hour to attend after work!
Makeup is simple - L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel powder, light dusting of Bare Escentuals Warmth as a bronzer. On eyes is The Body Shop's Granit on the lids, lashes curled, two coats of MAC X mascara in black, a touch of black kohl liner from The Body Shop around lash line. On lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lip Color in 06, which I believe is Sheer Caramel (touch darker and more brown than my lips).
Yet again, the hairstyle looks better a few days after. I did it curly, and bought a new collection of products - Suave has a line that is like the curly line from Matrix, but only $1.57 each at your local Target. I bought the shampoo, conditioner, root lifter and curling mousse. Washed and conditioned, applied an egg-size bit of the mousse and a few sprays of my Pantene thickening spray. Dried the hair with an ionic dryer with diffuser. Then I sprayed the whole head with my Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Humidity Spray, then re-curled the unruly areas with a curling iron. I shaped the bangs with a boar bristle round brush and the dryer sans diffuser. It looks GREAT, I really like it!
So the outfit - white ribbed tank from J. Crew, my beloved denim trouers from Ann Taylor, my navy twill shrunken blazer from Talbots. Around the neck is a long strand of sea-green and pale gray-blue and teeny silver beads - thank you Target. Silver cuff on the wrist and my tan leather thong heels from Mossimo/Target. Not a thrilling set, but I think I look quite hip, work-appropriate but fun. Wish I had a happy hour to attend after work!
Makeup is simple - L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel powder, light dusting of Bare Escentuals Warmth as a bronzer. On eyes is The Body Shop's Granit on the lids, lashes curled, two coats of MAC X mascara in black, a touch of black kohl liner from The Body Shop around lash line. On lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lip Color in 06, which I believe is Sheer Caramel (touch darker and more brown than my lips).
The Tuesday Safety Net
Tuesdays I am never that fashionable. The sudden realization that it is another work week, that Monday sort of sucked leaves a bad taste in my mouth come Tuesday. I don't care as much, I just want to be covered and at work on time so I can leave on time.
Today was yet another v-neck merino sweater. This time raspberry colored from Ann Taylor Loft. With it I wore a pair of black textured tab-waist trousers, also from Ann Taylor Loft. The lining tore from many wears and many washes in the gentle cycle, so I tore it out. Lightweight trousers with a winter look. Black pumps from B.P./Nordstrom on my feet. I wore two berry and hematite colored necklaces from Express around my neck.
My hair was straightened. Though it was cut the previous day for a curly style, I didn't have the oomph in the a.m. to style it. A few swipes of the straightening iron and I could leave.
Makeup was disappointing. I wore L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel pressed powder. Nars Orgasm on the cheeks, ivory shadow in the corner of the eyes and a bit on the brow bone. Lashes curled, MAC X mascara and a thin line of Maybelline Ultra Liner in black on the top set of lashes. On the lips I used Maybelline Endless Metallics lip pencil in a berry color. I looked very..... done. I didn't like it.
But the day was over and I was soon able to come home, put my hair in a clip, wash my face and put on my beloved black Old Navy lounge pants and a light blue Mossimo/Target crew-necked tee I got for $7.99.
Today was yet another v-neck merino sweater. This time raspberry colored from Ann Taylor Loft. With it I wore a pair of black textured tab-waist trousers, also from Ann Taylor Loft. The lining tore from many wears and many washes in the gentle cycle, so I tore it out. Lightweight trousers with a winter look. Black pumps from B.P./Nordstrom on my feet. I wore two berry and hematite colored necklaces from Express around my neck.
My hair was straightened. Though it was cut the previous day for a curly style, I didn't have the oomph in the a.m. to style it. A few swipes of the straightening iron and I could leave.
Makeup was disappointing. I wore L'Oreal True Match foundation, MAC stick concealer, Chanel pressed powder. Nars Orgasm on the cheeks, ivory shadow in the corner of the eyes and a bit on the brow bone. Lashes curled, MAC X mascara and a thin line of Maybelline Ultra Liner in black on the top set of lashes. On the lips I used Maybelline Endless Metallics lip pencil in a berry color. I looked very..... done. I didn't like it.
But the day was over and I was soon able to come home, put my hair in a clip, wash my face and put on my beloved black Old Navy lounge pants and a light blue Mossimo/Target crew-necked tee I got for $7.99.
April 17, 2006
Monday
Okay, I am a loser.
I am wearing exactly what I wore yesterday. The only thing different is my underwear - though still nude, and still Victoria's Secret and still a thong (the only way to go with light colored trousers!).
Oh, I took a shower. So similar hair, though freshly washed.
But really, who cares? The only person I am seeing both days is my husband and the only thing he ever notices is if I am wearing a ribbed tank/wifebeater (he hates them) or lingerie (he likes it) or a skirt (he remembers I have legs). If the clothes are clean, why not??
I am wearing exactly what I wore yesterday. The only thing different is my underwear - though still nude, and still Victoria's Secret and still a thong (the only way to go with light colored trousers!).
Oh, I took a shower. So similar hair, though freshly washed.
But really, who cares? The only person I am seeing both days is my husband and the only thing he ever notices is if I am wearing a ribbed tank/wifebeater (he hates them) or lingerie (he likes it) or a skirt (he remembers I have legs). If the clothes are clean, why not??
No Easter Bonnet
My family is not the religious sort. On my and my husband's side we are blends of Jewish, Christian Scientist, Methodist, Unitarian Universalist and Athiest. Easter for us is about drinking wine on the porch and having a mid-day meal together, not church and all that. This means my attire this weekend was far more scaled-down:
Saturday
Saturday was lunch at my husband's aunt's house. Sharing wedding videos and photographs of babies and recent travels. Buffet meal of ham, homemade mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, buttermilk biscuits, cinnamon and brown sugar baby carrots and field green salad with strawberries.
I wore my denim trousers from Ann Taylor with my coral gauzey baby doll tunic with the crocheted lace trim. Chunky turquoise necklace from Target and tan leather heeled sandals from Target.
Hair was beachy/wavy thanks to the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls line. Gel and Pantene thickening spray to damp hair, Humidity spray to dried hair and a curling iron to the unruly parts and BioSilk over the whole thing to make it soft.
Makeup was L'Oreal True Match foundation (went to look up the color, it's not on the package, it jsut says "cool"), MAC stick concealer, Chanel powder. Touch of Bare Escentuals Warmth on t he cheeks as bronzer. Lashes curled and two coats of MAC X mascara in black. Ivory shadow from Stila in corners of eyes and Lancome Juicy Tubes in Exposure on the lips. Very subtle.
Sunday
Sunday was a mid-afternoon early supper at my cousin's house. We watched their wedding video, played with their new puppies and hung out on the deck overlooking the woods. Meal of ham, turkey, homemade rolls, Kentucky greenbeans, spring mix salad with strawberries, homemade mashed potatoes (sounds similar, huh?).
Brown merino 3/4 sleeved v-neck from The Gap. Ivory sueded trousers from Ann Taylor. Two chunky turquoise necklaces from Target. Silver cuff bracelet. Tan thong heels from Target.
Hair was second-day dirty, jsut a few shots of the curling iron to make it look less like dreadlocks (my cousin's 15 year old hipster daughter in her True Religion jeans told me my hair was "tres cool looking").
Makeup was the same as the day prior - very basic and subtle.
Saturday
Saturday was lunch at my husband's aunt's house. Sharing wedding videos and photographs of babies and recent travels. Buffet meal of ham, homemade mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, buttermilk biscuits, cinnamon and brown sugar baby carrots and field green salad with strawberries.
I wore my denim trousers from Ann Taylor with my coral gauzey baby doll tunic with the crocheted lace trim. Chunky turquoise necklace from Target and tan leather heeled sandals from Target.
Hair was beachy/wavy thanks to the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls line. Gel and Pantene thickening spray to damp hair, Humidity spray to dried hair and a curling iron to the unruly parts and BioSilk over the whole thing to make it soft.
Makeup was L'Oreal True Match foundation (went to look up the color, it's not on the package, it jsut says "cool"), MAC stick concealer, Chanel powder. Touch of Bare Escentuals Warmth on t he cheeks as bronzer. Lashes curled and two coats of MAC X mascara in black. Ivory shadow from Stila in corners of eyes and Lancome Juicy Tubes in Exposure on the lips. Very subtle.
Sunday
Sunday was a mid-afternoon early supper at my cousin's house. We watched their wedding video, played with their new puppies and hung out on the deck overlooking the woods. Meal of ham, turkey, homemade rolls, Kentucky greenbeans, spring mix salad with strawberries, homemade mashed potatoes (sounds similar, huh?).
Brown merino 3/4 sleeved v-neck from The Gap. Ivory sueded trousers from Ann Taylor. Two chunky turquoise necklaces from Target. Silver cuff bracelet. Tan thong heels from Target.
Hair was second-day dirty, jsut a few shots of the curling iron to make it look less like dreadlocks (my cousin's 15 year old hipster daughter in her True Religion jeans told me my hair was "tres cool looking").
Makeup was the same as the day prior - very basic and subtle.
April 14, 2006
Friday
Today I just couldn't get up. i hit snooze literally 10 times and ended up 30 minutes to work.
Quick shower, slapped on some V05 mousse and some Straight Sexy Hair balm, dried it very fast with a paddle brush, a round boar bristle brush to smooth and shape the front. BioSilk applied to try to cover up the bad straightening job and split ends.
Outfit is my Ashley B coral colored babydoll hippie tunic, two strands of orange glass chips as necklaces, silver cuff, my beloved perfectly worn lowrise bootcut jeans from the Gap and brown sandals with a wood heel from Target.
Makeup is minimal - Bare Escentuals foundation, Warmth for bronzer, a touch of Nars Orgasm, lashes curled and MAC X in black applied, Goldie lip gloss in Blosson applied in rush hour traffic.
I feel so.... unfashionable. I can't wait to get home, straighten my hair properly, freshen my makeup and go out with the Husband!
Quick shower, slapped on some V05 mousse and some Straight Sexy Hair balm, dried it very fast with a paddle brush, a round boar bristle brush to smooth and shape the front. BioSilk applied to try to cover up the bad straightening job and split ends.
Outfit is my Ashley B coral colored babydoll hippie tunic, two strands of orange glass chips as necklaces, silver cuff, my beloved perfectly worn lowrise bootcut jeans from the Gap and brown sandals with a wood heel from Target.
Makeup is minimal - Bare Escentuals foundation, Warmth for bronzer, a touch of Nars Orgasm, lashes curled and MAC X in black applied, Goldie lip gloss in Blosson applied in rush hour traffic.
I feel so.... unfashionable. I can't wait to get home, straighten my hair properly, freshen my makeup and go out with the Husband!
Thursday
Sorry for the delay, I have been utterly swamped today at work!
So Thursday's outfit is a day late, and that's too bad because I felt I looked darn patootin cute!
Navy shrunken twill blazer from Talbot's. Pale aqua ribbed tank from Caslon/Nordstrom. Olive (excuse me, FATIGUE) ripstop cargo skirt from J. Crew, the self belt removed. Brown knotted front thong sandal with wood heel from Target. Silver cuff bracelet and small white gold chain with diamond pendant from the Hubby/Bailey Band and Biddle.
Hair was wavy/curly. Second day mess cleaned up with a wide-toothed comb and a curling iron.
Makeup was i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation (Fairly Light) and Warmth applied wiht a very light hand. On eyes I had a dusting of Fawn Pearl from The Body Shop and lashes curled and two coats of MAC X mascara in black. On the lips was Sally Hansen's Diamond Lipgloss in Champagne Toast.
So Thursday's outfit is a day late, and that's too bad because I felt I looked darn patootin cute!
Navy shrunken twill blazer from Talbot's. Pale aqua ribbed tank from Caslon/Nordstrom. Olive (excuse me, FATIGUE) ripstop cargo skirt from J. Crew, the self belt removed. Brown knotted front thong sandal with wood heel from Target. Silver cuff bracelet and small white gold chain with diamond pendant from the Hubby/Bailey Band and Biddle.
Hair was wavy/curly. Second day mess cleaned up with a wide-toothed comb and a curling iron.
Makeup was i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation (Fairly Light) and Warmth applied wiht a very light hand. On eyes I had a dusting of Fawn Pearl from The Body Shop and lashes curled and two coats of MAC X mascara in black. On the lips was Sally Hansen's Diamond Lipgloss in Champagne Toast.
April 12, 2006
What I'm Diggin'
I have become quite predictible with my beauty routine. I have been trying to stay far away from malls and Sephora.com so that I won't be knee-high in debt and unable to ever move from my teeny tiny home to a full-sized one with full-sized closets to hold all of my clothes and shoes and accessories.
I am selling The Body Shop at home and therefore get a nice discount on their stuff. I used to sell it before and know that some of the products are decent but most are phenomenal. I have been using a bunch lately and seen a makred difference in my skin quality. I also have gotten boring - run out of something, go to the least-appealing Target or to the Nordstrom website and purchase that one item - no strolling, perusing and impulse shopping. This may make for a boring blog, but it makes for a fatter wallet and happier skin - they always say to stick with a skin care regimie for at least 6 weeks to see if it's even worthwhile.
So here are the items that I have been addicted to recently:
Halo Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner: I have mentioned these before. At first I loved them, then I found the set to be overpriced and too thin to properly hydrate and detangle, and my hair didn't look any fuller. Then I switched to Pantene for more hydration and my hair was softer and silkier, but it looked dull. I recently switched back to Halo and my hair is thanking me. It does have volume. It does protect my barely-existant highlights. It does detangle and when I use some BioSilk, my hair is just as silky and soft as with Pantene, but wioth more life to it.
Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash: My husband had bad acne in high school and his dermatologist put him on Retin-A and had him use Purpose for cleansing and moisturizing. Just as I have gotten into a rut, he has too. When all else fails and we are out of face wash, the hubby heads to the grocery and buys this bottle. I never used it, it seemed too.... basic. Clear goopy cleanser, boring package, nothing to tone or refinish or brighten or improve texture. Just clean. Geez, I can use a bar of Dove for that, right?
Well a few weeks ago I had my contacts in but wanted to wash my face. My Neutrogena stuff irritates my eyes, my Body Shop stuff sometimes does too. I just wanted it clean, so I grabbed this bottle. Well I'll be damned, this stuff is pretty great! It took off all my makeup - even liquid eyeliner in one wash. My skin did not feel taut nor did it feel slick. One hit of the pump took care of my whole face and I felt fresh and light. No opressive smell, and no "fragrance free" gross chemical smell. Next time we're out, I may just be the one buying the bottle!
Olive Body Scrub from The Body Shop: The fragrance is less Italian Kitchen and more Air After a Rain. Very fresh and familiar and subtle. The scrub is made with groun olive pit, shea butter, olive oil. It scrubs gently enough that I am not tearing off my skin, it's not salt so it doesn't burn or dissolve. I use it twice a week on decollete (get rid of all that sun damage), hips, thighs and bum. About once a month I will get more involved with other body parts. Once a week I have been scrubbing my husband's back with it and he has a significantly reduced number of breakouts back there since. I don't use any tool, just my hands. Since it's not salt it's easy to manage with just fingers. It also moisturizes enough that if I fotfrget lotion after the shower, I don't feel tight and itchy later on in the day.
L'Oreal True Match Foundation: I am a makeup snob when it comes to base - most of my foundations, concealers and powders are from speciality stores and makeup counters. I feel for something as critical as foundation, it is worth it to spend good money for great coverage, nice feel and natural color. I have bought many drugstore foundations over the years and have thrown most out after a few attempts. This one, well I have recently bought a second bottle - a FIRST for me!
The color may look a bit orangey/peachy but somehow it will still blend into your skin. It is not super heavy coverage, but it feels good and lasts through a normal work day in a climate-controlled environment. Not the best for hot days outside, bbut that's what i.d. Bare Escentuals mineral makeup is for!
MAC's Stick Concealer: I just bought my fourth one on yesterday. I live and breathe this concealer. I started wearing it on my wedding day and have never stopped. It survives humidity, sweat, cheek kisses, crying at a chick flick, rubbing itchy contacts. It covers a crusty gross zit better than anything else I have seen, and it never cakes under my eyes. I think the price is decent for how long it lasts - both between purchases and on the face. This is all I can use in the summer to cover the not-so-pretties and still look pretty at the end of the day. Oh, and the color selection is great. Be I tan or pale, there is a color that disappears on my face.
Maybelline's Brow Powder: This image I found on Google cracks me up. How old and decrepid is this picture! I must admit, mine looks the same. I don't know how long I have had it - I know I bought it while living at this house... but I have been living here six years. I found it at Target, Maybelline was on sale, I bought it and have not left my house without it ever since. I use a Trish McEvoy eyebrow brush that has the perfect small, not-too-stiff angled brush that lets me color in without looking as though I colored in my brows. I have also used this nice chocolate matte color as shadow and as liner. It lasts all day and people are always surprised when I tell them that I color in my brows and even use it to extend my brows (my brows only grow to the end of the brown part of my eyes - little Hitler mustaches over my eyes!!!). It looks natural, it's easy to use, and it adheres nicely without looking glossy, tacky or false.
Chanel Pressed Powder: I started using this for my wedding. I wanted a full makeover at a counter, but was getting the cold shoulder for all the salespeople. All but the women at Chanel. They cooed over me, put me in the high stool and made me look like a drag queen. Under the four shades of shadow, two types of eye liner, lip liner and lipstick and gloss and a bronzer with blush I found some remarkable products. I like their liquid concealer - it truely lasts ALL DAY. And this powder? It feels like nothing. you can reapply alld ay and not get all gross and cakey. No weird smell to it and I love pulling a Chanel case out of my bag to blot my nose. I adore this stuff, even more than MAC's Blot Powder (which is also fabu).
The Body Shop's Vitamin C Intensive Night Treatment: Please do not eat this. However, if it gets on your lips feel free to lick because it tastes good. It is a white serum that goes a long way. I use this after cleansing (spot apply night cream over it) and boy, it really is awesome. Redness is reduced, zits stay away, the creases in my forehead seem smaller. be careful - get it in your eye and it HURTS. But I love this stuff and love how using it again my skin has gotten clearer and softer.
The Body Shop's Vitamin C Skin Boost: Now that the weather is not so drying, I am using this as a night cream instead of a day treatment. It is one of those sillicone-based products that feels like silk on your skin. One pump can cover all the spots that need moisture. Int he winter I would use this around the nose and places that were super dry and angry. I love how in the AM my face feels soft and fresh and I only need to splash water on it to get the day going.
Breathe Energy Spray from Bath and Body Works: Don't tell The Body Shop that I have been a traitor! I can't help it, I love this stuff. I ran out of Chanel Chance on my birthday - an exact year that I had the bottle. I switched to The Body Shop's White Musk since I had it and I sell it. It's nice, but it's not right. Now this stuff, this stuff smells like clean. It doesn't smell girly or butch, not floral or Oriental or musky or green or any of the other confusing names they attribute to perfumes. It just smells clean and fresh. I spray it on my clothes, my hair, my skin. I have sprayed it on my sheets and my lampshade. I dislike the rest of the line, but I am a fan of the spray. One spritz and it is spring!!
Now I just need the husband to get off his ass and buy me another bottle of Chanel Chance for my special occassions and dates!
The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor: I now own three of these, all purchased in the past month. As I mentioned in the last post, I hate the look of dark lipcolor on me. Along with feeling like cliche chubby girl, I can't keep up the maintenance of prominent lipcolors - reapplication, keeping in the lines, keeping it looking crisp and fresh. I love these sheer lipcolors because they are actually sheer - like sucking on a popsicle. Along with being sheer, they have a nice shine and they are very hydrating. If I get outside the lines it doesn't matter, I can just wipe it off and not look like a slob.
I am selling The Body Shop at home and therefore get a nice discount on their stuff. I used to sell it before and know that some of the products are decent but most are phenomenal. I have been using a bunch lately and seen a makred difference in my skin quality. I also have gotten boring - run out of something, go to the least-appealing Target or to the Nordstrom website and purchase that one item - no strolling, perusing and impulse shopping. This may make for a boring blog, but it makes for a fatter wallet and happier skin - they always say to stick with a skin care regimie for at least 6 weeks to see if it's even worthwhile.
So here are the items that I have been addicted to recently:
Halo Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner: I have mentioned these before. At first I loved them, then I found the set to be overpriced and too thin to properly hydrate and detangle, and my hair didn't look any fuller. Then I switched to Pantene for more hydration and my hair was softer and silkier, but it looked dull. I recently switched back to Halo and my hair is thanking me. It does have volume. It does protect my barely-existant highlights. It does detangle and when I use some BioSilk, my hair is just as silky and soft as with Pantene, but wioth more life to it.
Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash: My husband had bad acne in high school and his dermatologist put him on Retin-A and had him use Purpose for cleansing and moisturizing. Just as I have gotten into a rut, he has too. When all else fails and we are out of face wash, the hubby heads to the grocery and buys this bottle. I never used it, it seemed too.... basic. Clear goopy cleanser, boring package, nothing to tone or refinish or brighten or improve texture. Just clean. Geez, I can use a bar of Dove for that, right?Well a few weeks ago I had my contacts in but wanted to wash my face. My Neutrogena stuff irritates my eyes, my Body Shop stuff sometimes does too. I just wanted it clean, so I grabbed this bottle. Well I'll be damned, this stuff is pretty great! It took off all my makeup - even liquid eyeliner in one wash. My skin did not feel taut nor did it feel slick. One hit of the pump took care of my whole face and I felt fresh and light. No opressive smell, and no "fragrance free" gross chemical smell. Next time we're out, I may just be the one buying the bottle!
Olive Body Scrub from The Body Shop: The fragrance is less Italian Kitchen and more Air After a Rain. Very fresh and familiar and subtle. The scrub is made with groun olive pit, shea butter, olive oil. It scrubs gently enough that I am not tearing off my skin, it's not salt so it doesn't burn or dissolve. I use it twice a week on decollete (get rid of all that sun damage), hips, thighs and bum. About once a month I will get more involved with other body parts. Once a week I have been scrubbing my husband's back with it and he has a significantly reduced number of breakouts back there since. I don't use any tool, just my hands. Since it's not salt it's easy to manage with just fingers. It also moisturizes enough that if I fotfrget lotion after the shower, I don't feel tight and itchy later on in the day.
L'Oreal True Match Foundation: I am a makeup snob when it comes to base - most of my foundations, concealers and powders are from speciality stores and makeup counters. I feel for something as critical as foundation, it is worth it to spend good money for great coverage, nice feel and natural color. I have bought many drugstore foundations over the years and have thrown most out after a few attempts. This one, well I have recently bought a second bottle - a FIRST for me!The color may look a bit orangey/peachy but somehow it will still blend into your skin. It is not super heavy coverage, but it feels good and lasts through a normal work day in a climate-controlled environment. Not the best for hot days outside, bbut that's what i.d. Bare Escentuals mineral makeup is for!
MAC's Stick Concealer: I just bought my fourth one on yesterday. I live and breathe this concealer. I started wearing it on my wedding day and have never stopped. It survives humidity, sweat, cheek kisses, crying at a chick flick, rubbing itchy contacts. It covers a crusty gross zit better than anything else I have seen, and it never cakes under my eyes. I think the price is decent for how long it lasts - both between purchases and on the face. This is all I can use in the summer to cover the not-so-pretties and still look pretty at the end of the day. Oh, and the color selection is great. Be I tan or pale, there is a color that disappears on my face.
Maybelline's Brow Powder: This image I found on Google cracks me up. How old and decrepid is this picture! I must admit, mine looks the same. I don't know how long I have had it - I know I bought it while living at this house... but I have been living here six years. I found it at Target, Maybelline was on sale, I bought it and have not left my house without it ever since. I use a Trish McEvoy eyebrow brush that has the perfect small, not-too-stiff angled brush that lets me color in without looking as though I colored in my brows. I have also used this nice chocolate matte color as shadow and as liner. It lasts all day and people are always surprised when I tell them that I color in my brows and even use it to extend my brows (my brows only grow to the end of the brown part of my eyes - little Hitler mustaches over my eyes!!!). It looks natural, it's easy to use, and it adheres nicely without looking glossy, tacky or false.
Chanel Pressed Powder: I started using this for my wedding. I wanted a full makeover at a counter, but was getting the cold shoulder for all the salespeople. All but the women at Chanel. They cooed over me, put me in the high stool and made me look like a drag queen. Under the four shades of shadow, two types of eye liner, lip liner and lipstick and gloss and a bronzer with blush I found some remarkable products. I like their liquid concealer - it truely lasts ALL DAY. And this powder? It feels like nothing. you can reapply alld ay and not get all gross and cakey. No weird smell to it and I love pulling a Chanel case out of my bag to blot my nose. I adore this stuff, even more than MAC's Blot Powder (which is also fabu).
The Body Shop's Vitamin C Intensive Night Treatment: Please do not eat this. However, if it gets on your lips feel free to lick because it tastes good. It is a white serum that goes a long way. I use this after cleansing (spot apply night cream over it) and boy, it really is awesome. Redness is reduced, zits stay away, the creases in my forehead seem smaller. be careful - get it in your eye and it HURTS. But I love this stuff and love how using it again my skin has gotten clearer and softer.
The Body Shop's Vitamin C Skin Boost: Now that the weather is not so drying, I am using this as a night cream instead of a day treatment. It is one of those sillicone-based products that feels like silk on your skin. One pump can cover all the spots that need moisture. Int he winter I would use this around the nose and places that were super dry and angry. I love how in the AM my face feels soft and fresh and I only need to splash water on it to get the day going.
Breathe Energy Spray from Bath and Body Works: Don't tell The Body Shop that I have been a traitor! I can't help it, I love this stuff. I ran out of Chanel Chance on my birthday - an exact year that I had the bottle. I switched to The Body Shop's White Musk since I had it and I sell it. It's nice, but it's not right. Now this stuff, this stuff smells like clean. It doesn't smell girly or butch, not floral or Oriental or musky or green or any of the other confusing names they attribute to perfumes. It just smells clean and fresh. I spray it on my clothes, my hair, my skin. I have sprayed it on my sheets and my lampshade. I dislike the rest of the line, but I am a fan of the spray. One spritz and it is spring!!Now I just need the husband to get off his ass and buy me another bottle of Chanel Chance for my special occassions and dates!
The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor: I now own three of these, all purchased in the past month. As I mentioned in the last post, I hate the look of dark lipcolor on me. Along with feeling like cliche chubby girl, I can't keep up the maintenance of prominent lipcolors - reapplication, keeping in the lines, keeping it looking crisp and fresh. I love these sheer lipcolors because they are actually sheer - like sucking on a popsicle. Along with being sheer, they have a nice shine and they are very hydrating. If I get outside the lines it doesn't matter, I can just wipe it off and not look like a slob.
Wednesday
Today I tried to do my hair like the beachy waves they showed in Lucky magazine. I looked more like Brett Michels in the 80's than the tanned and peppy model on the page. Relied on the curling iron to make it look a bit more Out of The House Appropriate.
Emerald green lightweight v-neck stretch sweater from Banana Republic. Has become more tunic length after each delicate wash and line dry. With it are my Ann Taylor denim trousers, nicely creased. Around my neck is the necklace I wore Monday - a fabulous chunky short necklace from Target of torties shell with a huge pendant. On feet are brown leather knotted thong heels with wood heels - also from Target. Silver cuff bracelet.
Today I tried to master natural, flawless skin.
By the way, I find chubby and heavy women with dark lipstick to be so cliche. I am so cliche today. It's like, I am heavy so I must look sexy and sultry. I will play pinup - today I am Marilyn, I am Bettie. my red lips will detract from my large tummy and fleshy cheeks. I will make men think of a vagina instead of my extra pounds. I tried it for a change, but I think dark lipstick makes me look fatter - it accentuates the cheeks and the chins. Personally I find a smoky sultry eye and a paler glossy lip with some touseled hair is the sexiest look for non-skinny girls. More Playboy than pinup, but somehow less cliche.
Emerald green lightweight v-neck stretch sweater from Banana Republic. Has become more tunic length after each delicate wash and line dry. With it are my Ann Taylor denim trousers, nicely creased. Around my neck is the necklace I wore Monday - a fabulous chunky short necklace from Target of torties shell with a huge pendant. On feet are brown leather knotted thong heels with wood heels - also from Target. Silver cuff bracelet.
Today I tried to master natural, flawless skin.
- Apply moisturizer, let is settle in for 10 minutes
- When dry, apply Smashbox Primer to whole face
- Apply L'Oreal True match foundation with sponge. Let settle
- Apply MAC stick concealer (NC15 - i remembered because I bought a new one yesterday and the salesperson said I was a "poster child for the pale shades") to under and sides of eyes, under nose and around lips with Body Shop shadow brush ( I like as a concealer brush)
- Apply Benefit's f..y..eye! to lids. Let this settle too.
- Apply MAC's Blot Powder to entire face
- Use short brow brush from Trish McEvoy to apply Maybelline brow powder in brunette
- Use The Body Shop's Brow and Lash Gel to hold brows in place
- Apply Nars Orgasm blush to apples of cheeks with Trish McEvoy brush
- Apply an ivory shadow from Stila to inner corners of eyes with ring finger
- Curl lashes with Shu Eumura lash curler
- Apply MAC X mascara in black wiggling from base to tips to get tons of application. Do second eye, then repeat.
- Then for some color apple L'Oreal Endless lipcolor in real Rasin to lips
By the way, I find chubby and heavy women with dark lipstick to be so cliche. I am so cliche today. It's like, I am heavy so I must look sexy and sultry. I will play pinup - today I am Marilyn, I am Bettie. my red lips will detract from my large tummy and fleshy cheeks. I will make men think of a vagina instead of my extra pounds. I tried it for a change, but I think dark lipstick makes me look fatter - it accentuates the cheeks and the chins. Personally I find a smoky sultry eye and a paler glossy lip with some touseled hair is the sexiest look for non-skinny girls. More Playboy than pinup, but somehow less cliche.
April 11, 2006
Tuesday
Oh what a wonderful day! Breezy, about 75 degrees, not a cloud in the sky. I left ofr lunch and lost track of time in the sunshine, missing an important meeting. Whoops! Just say there was an accident on the highway!
Black silk ribbed knit crew neck sweater from Chico's. White tonal striped white pants from Tahari (part of a suit). Black tong heels from Target. Silver cuff bracelet. Silver, pale jade and pale gray-blue bead double strand necklace from Target.
Hair is blown straight with Pantene thickening spray and Sexy Straight Hair balm. Boar bristle round brush to smooth ends.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, Warmth on the cheeks. On eyes is Granite and Soft Black shadows from The Body Shop, lots of MAC X mascara on curled lashes thanks to Shu Eumura. On lips is Goldie gloss in Blossom.
Today I returned a Laura mercier tinted moisturizer that didn't make my heart pound, and returned a MAC foundation stick I accidently ordered and replaced with their concealer stick. Went on a mad dash of trying on in ATL, found a dress I adore but not in petite, and would require alterations to make right. Shorts? No matter the length they look like ass on me. Almost bought a "eh" pair of pants at ATL for $29.99 but decided against it last minute - cute with untucked shirt, uncute otherwise. Not worth it.
Oh, here's the dress I like from Ann Taylor Loft:
Black silk ribbed knit crew neck sweater from Chico's. White tonal striped white pants from Tahari (part of a suit). Black tong heels from Target. Silver cuff bracelet. Silver, pale jade and pale gray-blue bead double strand necklace from Target.
Hair is blown straight with Pantene thickening spray and Sexy Straight Hair balm. Boar bristle round brush to smooth ends.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, Warmth on the cheeks. On eyes is Granite and Soft Black shadows from The Body Shop, lots of MAC X mascara on curled lashes thanks to Shu Eumura. On lips is Goldie gloss in Blossom.
Today I returned a Laura mercier tinted moisturizer that didn't make my heart pound, and returned a MAC foundation stick I accidently ordered and replaced with their concealer stick. Went on a mad dash of trying on in ATL, found a dress I adore but not in petite, and would require alterations to make right. Shorts? No matter the length they look like ass on me. Almost bought a "eh" pair of pants at ATL for $29.99 but decided against it last minute - cute with untucked shirt, uncute otherwise. Not worth it.
Oh, here's the dress I like from Ann Taylor Loft:
April 10, 2006
Monday
Today I didn't feel like dressing up terribly much - I was in the mood for jeans. I am also in desperate need of a haircut so I jsut wasn't super fashionita mode.
Tan motocross-inspired canvas jacket with brown stitching from Target. Brown ribbed tank from Old Navy. Darker stretch bootcut jeans from The Gap. Large chunky tortise shell necklace from Target. Brown leather thing heels from Target/Mossimo.
Hair is blown straight - applied Pantene thickening spray and Sexy Short Hair straightening balm on damp hair, blown with paddle brush and ionic dryer, a round boar bristle brush used to turn down edges and define my sideswept bangs.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation, concealer and Warmth. Bronze tinted lip balm from Aveda. On eyes is Clinique Snow in the inner corners, The Body Shop's Granite over the lids, my Maybelline brunette brow powder used as shadow in crease and around lash lines.
Tan motocross-inspired canvas jacket with brown stitching from Target. Brown ribbed tank from Old Navy. Darker stretch bootcut jeans from The Gap. Large chunky tortise shell necklace from Target. Brown leather thing heels from Target/Mossimo.
Hair is blown straight - applied Pantene thickening spray and Sexy Short Hair straightening balm on damp hair, blown with paddle brush and ionic dryer, a round boar bristle brush used to turn down edges and define my sideswept bangs.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation, concealer and Warmth. Bronze tinted lip balm from Aveda. On eyes is Clinique Snow in the inner corners, The Body Shop's Granite over the lids, my Maybelline brunette brow powder used as shadow in crease and around lash lines.
Saturday
I went to my sister's - she was hosting an at-home party. afterwards there was a chance we may go to a bar or club.
Black stretch knit v-neck sweater from Banana Republic. White tonal striped pants - part of a Tahari suit. Black leather thing heels from Target. Turquoise necklace from Target. Silver cuff bracelet.
Hair was done curly thanks to the entire Marc Anthony Strictly Curls line and a curling iron.
Makeup was i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation, concealer and Warmth as bronzer. Touch of Nars Orgasm on the cheeks. On the eyes was The Body Shop's shadow in Granite on the lids, Soft Black in the crease and along the lash lines. Mucho coating of MAC X mascara in black. On the lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink.
Black stretch knit v-neck sweater from Banana Republic. White tonal striped pants - part of a Tahari suit. Black leather thing heels from Target. Turquoise necklace from Target. Silver cuff bracelet.
Hair was done curly thanks to the entire Marc Anthony Strictly Curls line and a curling iron.
Makeup was i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation, concealer and Warmth as bronzer. Touch of Nars Orgasm on the cheeks. On the eyes was The Body Shop's shadow in Granite on the lids, Soft Black in the crease and along the lash lines. Mucho coating of MAC X mascara in black. On the lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink.
Saturday
I went to my sister's - she was hosting an at-home party. afterwards there was a chance we may go to a bar or club.
Black stretch knit v-neck sweater from Banana Republic. White tonal striped pants - part of a Tahari suit. Black leather thing heels from Target. Turquoise necklace from Target. Silver cuff bracelet.
Hair was done curly thanks to the entire Marc Anthony Strictly Curls line and a curling iron.
Makeup was i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation, concealer and Warmth as bronzer. Touch of Nars Orgasm on the cheeks. On the eyes was The Body Shop's shadow in Granite on the lids, Soft Black in the crease and along the lash lines. Mucho coating of MAC X mascara in black. On the lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink.
Black stretch knit v-neck sweater from Banana Republic. White tonal striped pants - part of a Tahari suit. Black leather thing heels from Target. Turquoise necklace from Target. Silver cuff bracelet.
Hair was done curly thanks to the entire Marc Anthony Strictly Curls line and a curling iron.
Makeup was i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation, concealer and Warmth as bronzer. Touch of Nars Orgasm on the cheeks. On the eyes was The Body Shop's shadow in Granite on the lids, Soft Black in the crease and along the lash lines. Mucho coating of MAC X mascara in black. On the lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink.
April 7, 2006
Bargain VS. Cheap
It’s All In The Details
I don’t really understand why, but cheap versions and knockoffs of designer items seem to be more elaborate. There is over-detail, topstitching AND decorative buttons. Beading AND sequins AND embroidery. In Target I saw a cute pair of linen and straw wedges – perfect for spring and so current. Problem? The linen was entwined with braided leather and beads and wood and the kitchen sink. A classic pair of shoes was made gaudy by attempting five trends at once. If all the baubles were removed, one wouldn’t be able to tell if the shoes cost you $14.99 or $74.99. However with too much detail, it is quite clear that the shoes were bought at a lower-end store.
I picked up a pair of brown leather sandals. Real leather upper, knotted leather straps creating a thong, padded leather foot bed and wood-look heel. The color was basic, the style was simple, the wood heel was current and the $14.99 price made them go right into my red cart. These shoes are simple enough to blend with any outfit, go with pants and capris and skirts with ease. No one will really tell how much they cost because of the simple, classic lines and subtle color.
The accessories department can always be tricky. You can find sunglasses that look exactly like ones in a magazine, but then they are decorated with sequins or emblazoned with a Target brand’s logo. If they are sans decoration, the materials are cheaper and they are flimsy. However, this year I was able to find a pair of black large plastic frames from Xhiliration! That are stylish and basic enough to not be obvious as to the price or designer. Last season I got a pair of silver metal frames with smoke lenses from Cynthia Rowley’s Swell! Line for $9.99. I received tons of compliments on them; they were simple enough to not look obviously from one designer (or one designer knockoff).
With jewelry you need to be careful. Low cost costume jewelry can often look cheap. Be wary of silver ad gold toned pieces, they are often far too shiny to look real and will often peel, tarnish or irritate your skin. Right now, there are great selections of beaded, shell and wood jewelry. Keep it subtle (they may have neon orange wood necklaces at Target but I bet they don’t have them at Henri Bendel) and you can have your accessories look like a million bucks. I recently bought a necklace of faux-turquoise on a knotted cord. I have wanted a chunky turquoise necklace for years but couldn’t stomach the cost. Instead I found a replica at Target for $17.99 and I have received tons of compliments.
If The Shoe Fits….
Or the jacket or the jeans or the dress, buy it! A sign of a cheaply made garment is it’s poor fit. Sleeves too long, arms too tight, collar too loose, torso not tapered correctly, hem uneven. No matter the bargain price, it’s not worth it to buy it if it doesn’t fit well. I recently found a great navy shirt dress at Target – the color was great, the self-belt was cute, it actually buttoned nicely over my bust, and the sleeves were a great length. Problem? The hem was weird. It had a shirt-tail hem so that the sides of the dress were thigh-height while the front and back were to my knees. I looked great from the hips up, but the other half of me looked cheap and messy. I tried to justify it, thinking I could shorten it and wear it with pants, layer it with another dress, possibly wear it with *gasp* leggings but then realized it was a ridiculous thought. Why work so hard for one piece of clothing? I could end up spending more than the dress costs in accessories and alterations to make it look right, or I could wear it as-is and look ridiculous. I put the dress back on the hanger and never looked back.
I have a pair of ivory trousers that I got on clearance at TJ Maxx. I have never heard of the brand, the fabric is not that refined, but the fit is fantastic. For $12.40 I got a pair of pants that I am complimented on each time I wear them. It shows that price does not always equal fit. It is worth it to take even two of the same size and color in the fitting room – one way companies cut costs on clothing is by cutting more pieces at a time. Having a larger stack of fabric going through the cutting machine means that the top piece can easily be a different size from the bottom piece. One size 6 may not fit like another size 6. This also explains why sometimes linings in cheaper jackets do not always fit correctly. However, if you give yourself plenty of time in the fitting room, you could end up with some real gems at a great price.
Trendy or Fashionable?
Just because Jessica Simpson carried around a silver leather hobo three months ago does not mean you should carry around a pleather version of it now. You will not look like Jessica, you will look like a woman with a cheap and ugly purse.
When it comes to bags, the only ones that should be bought at discount stores are ones that are made out of something that is NOT leather or pleather, or something that is quirky. Magenta faux snakeskin clutch? Great buy. White pleather Coach knockoff? Leave it on the shelf. No one will believe it is designer and it will cheapen everything else you are purchasing.
Right now, there are lots of canvas, crocheted and straw bags out there. This is an easy style to replicate at a lower price by shopping at your discount and Big Box retailers. I saw a white macramé crocheted hobo at Target just today for less than $10 that would look adorable with jeans, a tank and espadrilles this summer. This is a piece that is simple enough to look fashionable and fun, and a price that if this look is no longer fashionable next summer, you haven’t lost out.
It’s dangerous to invest in trends when you do not have the fashion budget of Jessica Simpson. Investing in a necklace, a pair of sandals or a top that showcases the season’s looks is great. However trying to dress like a celebrity on a Target budget is a recipe for fashion disaster. Have you ever seen the show on the Style network called The Look For Less? Let’s be honest here – when they do the designer looks under $120, does the final outfit EVER look like the picture from the runway? Not really. If you can’t replicate it perfectly, why try? No one is taking score on how many knockoffs you can wear, or how close you get to the original. Why not make yourself the original? Wear what looks good on you, not on a supermodel. Take colors or shapes that are popular this season and work them into your wardrobe, not exact pieces.
Matchy Matchy
Just because your shoes match your hose which matches your skirt which matches your belt which matches your bag which matches your lipgloss does not mean you look fashionable. More likely you look like a walking Now N Later candy. You will never see a celebrity or socialite in head to toe candy pink or apple green.
When I worked in retail, often I would have customers purchase items not based off of fit or style, but color. “That belt is the same exact color as the eyeshadow I bought last week!” I am not sure where this desire to be monochromatic comes from, but having all one color does not make up for having ill-fitting or unflattering clothing. It is nice to sometimes have your bag match your shoes, or have your heels pick up a color in the print of your dress, however being head-to-toe one color should be left to cute little children and not you.
Fashion is not about replication, it is about interpretation. An artist is not deemed so because he makes a perfect copy of a Monet. An artist creates his own style. Fashion is an art form, learn it, understand it, appreciate it, and take from it what moves you; make it your own. You can be fashionable on any budget, and can find great fashion in any store, from the upscale boutique to the strip mall.
(all photographs - minus the cute little kiddies - courtesy of Target)
Friday
It's warm, but it's raining. Love my Sexy Straight Hair balm, my hair has stayed straight and frizz-free on the most humid and rainy of days!
Today I am wearing a black silk/cashmere blend tank from Banana Republic, over it a white cotton denim safari jacket from The Gap. On the bottom are Straight Bootcut jeans from The Gap, and around the waist is a red, black and white diagonally striped oblong silk scarf from The Limited, tied on the side throught he belt loops. On my feet are balck leather thong heels from Target. Silver cuff bracelet.
As stated earlier, hair has Sexy Straight Hair balm and Pantene thickening spray applied wet, then blown dry with round boar bristle brush and my ionic dryer. Then it is touched up with my straightening iron. Bit of Sebastian Mud applied to tips for definition and a piecey look. Kair is sideswept, looks very nice.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation, concealer and a bit of the Warmth as bronzer until I get a new one. I don't care for the Warmth too mcuh , it's hard to handle and is very dark. Eyes have Clinique Snow int he inner corners, Body Shop's Fawn Pearl over the lid, lots of MAC X mascara in black and a touch of black kohl liner from The Body Shop along lash lines, smudged with Q-tip. On lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Strawberry.
Today's fragrance is Breathe Energy body mist from Bath and Body Works. It smells clean and fresh, like a rainy day in the spring.
Today I am wearing a black silk/cashmere blend tank from Banana Republic, over it a white cotton denim safari jacket from The Gap. On the bottom are Straight Bootcut jeans from The Gap, and around the waist is a red, black and white diagonally striped oblong silk scarf from The Limited, tied on the side throught he belt loops. On my feet are balck leather thong heels from Target. Silver cuff bracelet.
As stated earlier, hair has Sexy Straight Hair balm and Pantene thickening spray applied wet, then blown dry with round boar bristle brush and my ionic dryer. Then it is touched up with my straightening iron. Bit of Sebastian Mud applied to tips for definition and a piecey look. Kair is sideswept, looks very nice.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation, concealer and a bit of the Warmth as bronzer until I get a new one. I don't care for the Warmth too mcuh , it's hard to handle and is very dark. Eyes have Clinique Snow int he inner corners, Body Shop's Fawn Pearl over the lid, lots of MAC X mascara in black and a touch of black kohl liner from The Body Shop along lash lines, smudged with Q-tip. On lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Strawberry.
Today's fragrance is Breathe Energy body mist from Bath and Body Works. It smells clean and fresh, like a rainy day in the spring.
April 6, 2006
Thursday is Meeting Day
I try to look nice on Thurdsdays becase I have four hours worth of meetings. I want to look like a person with clout and authority as I run these meetings.
Brown merino v-neck from The Gap. Brown wool cuffed trousers from Ann Taylor, nicely creased. Turquoise chunky necklace from target. Silver cuff bracelet. Brown and tan snakeskin pumps from Nine West.
Hair is second day dirty, straightened out the bed head with a round boar bristle brush and the dryer, straightened the kinked out front with my iron.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, Nars Orgasm blush. Eyes, I did Clinique Snow in the corners, Body Shop's Fawn Pearl over the lid, lashes with several coats of MAC X mascara, black kohl liners around the edges of the eyes for a soft look. on lips is Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink.
Brown merino v-neck from The Gap. Brown wool cuffed trousers from Ann Taylor, nicely creased. Turquoise chunky necklace from target. Silver cuff bracelet. Brown and tan snakeskin pumps from Nine West.
Hair is second day dirty, straightened out the bed head with a round boar bristle brush and the dryer, straightened the kinked out front with my iron.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, Nars Orgasm blush. Eyes, I did Clinique Snow in the corners, Body Shop's Fawn Pearl over the lid, lashes with several coats of MAC X mascara, black kohl liners around the edges of the eyes for a soft look. on lips is Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink.
Wednesday Wishful Thinking
I dressed for the warm weather of the past weekend, not for the blustery winds that we had.
Black stretch v-neck sweater from Banana Republic (same as my green one, but this one was on sale!). Olive/putty colored cropped pants, also from Banana Republic. Just got them this weekend, they have button pockets on the front and back and flare out a bit at the bottom. With this I wore a longer necklace made of beads of seaglass and some silver wire. On my feet were my tan thpng heels from target.
Hair was blown straight, then a large-barreled curling iron used ont he ends for some flip.
Makeup was i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, Nars Orgasm blush. Eyes, I put a layer of Fawn Pearl by The Body Shop on the lid, a touch of their gray in the crease and along the lash line for a amokey effect, culed my lashes and applied two layers of MAC X mascara in black, and then used The Body Shop's eye liner in black on the edges of my eyes for a more enhanced smokey look. On the lips was The Bosy Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink.
When I got home, before I went to dinenr with a friend, I changed to dark red pointy flats from Bronx and a red stone necklace from a vintage boutique. Tad more appropriate for the weather.
Black stretch v-neck sweater from Banana Republic (same as my green one, but this one was on sale!). Olive/putty colored cropped pants, also from Banana Republic. Just got them this weekend, they have button pockets on the front and back and flare out a bit at the bottom. With this I wore a longer necklace made of beads of seaglass and some silver wire. On my feet were my tan thpng heels from target.
Hair was blown straight, then a large-barreled curling iron used ont he ends for some flip.
Makeup was i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, Nars Orgasm blush. Eyes, I put a layer of Fawn Pearl by The Body Shop on the lid, a touch of their gray in the crease and along the lash line for a amokey effect, culed my lashes and applied two layers of MAC X mascara in black, and then used The Body Shop's eye liner in black on the edges of my eyes for a more enhanced smokey look. On the lips was The Bosy Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink.
When I got home, before I went to dinenr with a friend, I changed to dark red pointy flats from Bronx and a red stone necklace from a vintage boutique. Tad more appropriate for the weather.
April 4, 2006
Tuesday
Navy twill blazer from talbot's. Pale aqua ribbed tank from Caslon. Chunky turquoise bead necklace from Target. Dark bootcut jeans from The Gap. Tan thong heels from Target.
Hair is second day dirty, wavy, messy, beachy. Touch of BioSilk to reduce frizz.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, bit of Nars Orgasm blush. On lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink. Eyes is only Benefit's f..y..eye!, MAC X mascara and a touch of black kohl liner at the lash lines, smudged with a Q-tip.
Hair is second day dirty, wavy, messy, beachy. Touch of BioSilk to reduce frizz.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, bit of Nars Orgasm blush. On lips is The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Pink. Eyes is only Benefit's f..y..eye!, MAC X mascara and a touch of black kohl liner at the lash lines, smudged with a Q-tip.
April 3, 2006
Monday
Tonight I am going to a concert after work, so I wanted my outfit to be versatile.
Hippie babydoll top from Ashley B. Of course no photo, so I found a picture of it online:
I found it at Nordstrom, and in the store it is on sale. I am weairng it with my denim creased trousers from Ann Taylor, tan thong heels from target, and two glass chip strand necklaces that are the same color as the top - bought at a beach boutique.
Hair is beachy/wavy thanks to Marc Anthony Strictly Curls gel and humidity spray, and some BioSilk.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, touch of Nars Orgasm blush, just Benefit's f..y..eye! on the lids, mucho MAC X mascara and a fine line of black Maybelline Ultra Liner on the top lash line. On the lips is Goldie lip gloss in Blossom.
Hippie babydoll top from Ashley B. Of course no photo, so I found a picture of it online:
I found it at Nordstrom, and in the store it is on sale. I am weairng it with my denim creased trousers from Ann Taylor, tan thong heels from target, and two glass chip strand necklaces that are the same color as the top - bought at a beach boutique.Hair is beachy/wavy thanks to Marc Anthony Strictly Curls gel and humidity spray, and some BioSilk.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, touch of Nars Orgasm blush, just Benefit's f..y..eye! on the lids, mucho MAC X mascara and a fine line of black Maybelline Ultra Liner on the top lash line. On the lips is Goldie lip gloss in Blossom.
April 2, 2006
Weekend Attire
Saturday Barbecue
Creased denim trousers from Ann Taylor. White ribbed Favorite Tank from J. Crew with a light aquamarine cashmere tank from The Gap layered over it. Turquoise chunky necklace from Target on my neck, silver cuff bracelet on my wrist. On feet are tan think heels from Target’s last summer collection.
Hair is beachy/curly. Hair is slightly damp, Marc Anthony Strictly Curls gel applied to it, dried with diffuser. Hair covered with layer of Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Humidity Spray, and occasional pieces are curled around a medium-barreled iron. Then a fine coating of Bio Silk is put on the hair for shine and ant-frizz.
Makeup is i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, a touch of Nars Orgasm blush. Eyes have a touch of Clinique Snow in the inner corners, a touch of Body Shop’s Fawn Pearl in the crease, lashes curled and mucho MAC X mascara applied, and then a fine line of black Ultra Liner by Maybelline on the lop lash line. On the lips is a teeny coral lipgloss from Target that my mom put in my Christmas Stocking.
Sunday Jaunt to the Mall
Brown merino ¾ sleeve v-neck sweater from The Gap, same creased denim trousers. Same turquoise necklace and same tan leather sandals. Same hair too – second day curls restored with a bit of misted water and a few hits with the curling iron. Wow, déjà vu – the makeup is exactly the same too!
Oh, and of course, have to share what I purchased:
Navy twill blazer from Talbots – on sale for $44 and darn cute and hip looking! I was roaming looking for a dress and pants for my mom and came updon this cutie in the sale rack. Can’t wait to pair it with some cropped pants, a little tank and some wedge espadrilles!
White tonally striped suit from Tahari – it was on sale for $180 and it is magnificent. The pants fit like a dream (I heart Tahari suits) and would look great for work with a little sweater and heels. The jacket fits perfectly and would be so stylin’ with a pair of black trousers and a brightly colored shell. I also liked it with my denim trousers. Together with some rocking black heels and a shell, well I look like a celebrity. No fricking clue where I plan on wearing this white suit, but I adored it and so I bought it.
Dark coral crinkly gauze baby-doll tunic from Nordstrom. Crocheted lace on edges, and a great oclor with my skin tone.
Pale blue/aqua ribbed tank from Nordstrom.
Black stretch v-neck sweater from Banana Republic – I already have it in emerald green, and I am without a lightweight black sweater for Spring!
Putty colored cropped trousers from Banana Republic – sort of a chino fabric with a sateen finish. Flat front, and on sale! Amazing to find cropped trousers that are flattering on my petite/big calved frame. These are not even a petite cut!
Of course with all this, I didn’t find what I am needing/desiring for spring:
- Flat front wide leg stone colored chinos
- The olive rip-stop cotton drawstring skirt from J. Crew
- The bronze and straw wedge espadrilles from J. Crew
- A pair of dark cuffed cropped jeans (found almost perfect ones at The Gap but too low-slung)
- A dress that is not as low cut as my LBD but just as versatile
- A colorful jacket (olive, white, dark red, maybe coral) that would look cute with jeans
- A leather hip-sling belt that doesn’t look too trendy or too dorky (found an almost perfect one in Eddie Bauer of all places, but couldn’t stomach $50 right now for just a belt)
I have two dresses arriving in the mail from Nordstrom, hopefully one will be the spring/less low-cut version of my beloved LBD!
April 1, 2006
Week in Review...
Tuesday
For the life of me, I cannot remember what I wore to work on Tuesday! I think it was jeans and a black merino v-neck... something terribly boring and simple. LEt's forget Tuesday, I know I did.
Wednesday
Wednesday I worked for two hours then had to hop a flight to a different time zone and weather zone. Int he two hours of work I had to conduct two interviews so I needed to look rpesentable. Then I was driving straight from work to the airport.
Electric blue tape yard square-necked cap sleeved shell from Marshall's, silver chain with green glass disc from Italy, denim blazer from Ann Taylor, black trousers with sewn-in front creases from Ann Taylor, black Enzo boots. Once I got to Houston I lost the blazer and felt quite comfortable.
Thursday
Same denim blazer and same boots, but this time with an indigo v-neck silk knit shell from Ann Taylor, two chunky turquoise beaded necklaces from Target and ivory sueded cotton bootcut trousers from Ann Taylor.
That evening we went out to dinner, I changed out of the blazer and ivory pants, went back to the black pants from Wednesday.
Friday
Coral silk knit v-neck sweater from Ann Taylor, gray cuffed suiting trousers from Tahari, same black Enzo boots. Two strangs of seaglass and silver beads around neck.
Every day, hair was straight with Pantene volumizing spray, Sexy Straight Hair balm and my trusty straightening iron.
Makeup was the same every day as well - i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, Nars Orgasm blush, Goldie ligloss in Blossom, The Body Shop's shadow in Fawn Pearl with a touch of Damson in the crease and along the lash line, lashes curled and MAC X mascara in black applied.
Saturday
And today? Today so far I am wearing a turquoise tissue-weight tee fdrom J. Crew and a pair of my husband's boxers from Banana Republic. Plan to put on a bra and some yoga pants, head to the gym, and then this afternoon we have a cookout. Not yet sure of the outfit, but once I figure it out, I will be sure to notify all of you!
For the life of me, I cannot remember what I wore to work on Tuesday! I think it was jeans and a black merino v-neck... something terribly boring and simple. LEt's forget Tuesday, I know I did.
Wednesday
Wednesday I worked for two hours then had to hop a flight to a different time zone and weather zone. Int he two hours of work I had to conduct two interviews so I needed to look rpesentable. Then I was driving straight from work to the airport.
Electric blue tape yard square-necked cap sleeved shell from Marshall's, silver chain with green glass disc from Italy, denim blazer from Ann Taylor, black trousers with sewn-in front creases from Ann Taylor, black Enzo boots. Once I got to Houston I lost the blazer and felt quite comfortable.
Thursday
Same denim blazer and same boots, but this time with an indigo v-neck silk knit shell from Ann Taylor, two chunky turquoise beaded necklaces from Target and ivory sueded cotton bootcut trousers from Ann Taylor.
That evening we went out to dinner, I changed out of the blazer and ivory pants, went back to the black pants from Wednesday.
Friday
Coral silk knit v-neck sweater from Ann Taylor, gray cuffed suiting trousers from Tahari, same black Enzo boots. Two strangs of seaglass and silver beads around neck.
Every day, hair was straight with Pantene volumizing spray, Sexy Straight Hair balm and my trusty straightening iron.
Makeup was the same every day as well - i.d. Bare Escentuals foundation and concealer, Nars Orgasm blush, Goldie ligloss in Blossom, The Body Shop's shadow in Fawn Pearl with a touch of Damson in the crease and along the lash line, lashes curled and MAC X mascara in black applied.
Saturday
And today? Today so far I am wearing a turquoise tissue-weight tee fdrom J. Crew and a pair of my husband's boxers from Banana Republic. Plan to put on a bra and some yoga pants, head to the gym, and then this afternoon we have a cookout. Not yet sure of the outfit, but once I figure it out, I will be sure to notify all of you!
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