Monday

Black knit dress from Velvet Torch, black synthetic cami from Express, silver cuff, red stone necklace from a vintage store, black round toe pumps from Jessica Simpson.

Hair was washed the night before and allowed to air dry. Brushed out, small amount of BioSilk to ends.

Makeup is L'Oreal True match foundation in C3, concealer in W4-5, Nars blush in Orgasm, Maybelline ExpertWear Shadow Quad in Mocha Motion - the silver and gray combined and placed on lids. Lashes curled and Cover Girl Lash Exact in black applied, and a line of Maybelline UltraLiner in black on top lash line. On lips is Revlon Shiny Sheers in Sheer Cherry Pop.

Photos by the husband.

Sunday

Nothing exciting, doing stuff around the house, walked to a community meeting in the evening. Gray CBGB tee shirt, camo Bermuda shorts from Old Navy, wore my Reef flip flops when I stepped out of the house.

Hair is second day, brushed out.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation in C3, some Nars blush in Orgasm, Cover Girl Lash Exact mascara in black, and a Burts bees tinted lip balm that I cannot find to tell you the name.

Thursday

Weird in-between weather and I am seeing that I am doing okay for bottoms but am a bit lacking for tops for work. My drawer seems to be full of tanks and peasant tops that are fine for a weekend but a tad too casual for Monday through Thursday.

Black cotton tank and tissue-weight merino deep v-neck sweater from Banana Republic, black trousers from Limited - same style as the gray ones I wear. I found them in the attic; I think I bought them in 2002 back when I worked in Pentagon City Mall in Virginia right near a super big Limited. I would bag my lunch and spend my break in that store, I swear that year every single item The Limited made fit me perfectly. It's nice that some of the clothes from then are still stylish to wear now! Long gold chain from Express, leopard peep-toe heels from BCBGirls.

Hair is washed with Suave Professionals Sleek Shampoo and the last clump of conditioner from my Kiwi ColorReflect bottle. A bit of Shine On! from Sexy Straight hair applied while damp, then dried semi-straight using a round brush. Some BioSilk added to the ends.

Makeup is L'Oreal Bare Naturale in True Beige, Smashbox Soft Lights in Tint with Nars blush in Orgasm over it. Eyes is Maybelline ExpertWear shadow quad in Mocha Motion - the silver and the mauve shades blended and applied from inner corners to over the lid. Lashes curled and Cover Girl Lash Exact in Black applied twice. On lips is Revlon ColorGlide Sheer in Sheer Burgundy. After the photo I added a bit of Revlon Super Lustrous gloss in Pink Afterglow for more shine.

Lately I have felt my skin is looking old - creases showing up between the brows, dryness, small breakouts and all over lackluster. Then I remembered I have occasionally been going to bed without washing my face. I started washing my face nightly with a gentle soap-free cleanser (The Body Shop's Moisture White Cleansing Powder) and then applying The Body Shop's Vitamin C Intensive Night Repair (this stuff is AMAZING for clearing and brightening the skin) and then night cream (drugstore's generic brand version of Olay Regenerist night cream). Just three days of regular cleansing and prepping and my skin was again transformed. So when you are at the point of considering major spa or dermatological treatments or a shopping spree at Sephora, recheck your regular routines. Possibly all you need to do is change your routine to get what you really need!

Wednesday

Royal blue scoop tee from American Apparel, black and ivory print knit skirt from Rachel Palley, black round toe heels from Jessica Simpson, silver cuff bracelet.

Hair is second day, straightened with straightening iron. Bit of BioSilk on ends to smooth.

Makeup is L'Oreal Bare Naturale foundation in true Beige, Body Shop bronzing powder in Light over cheeks and on collarbone, a bit of Nars blush in Orgasm on apples of cheeks. Eyes is ivory shadow from the Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in inner corners and along brow bone, a bit of taupe shadow from Maybelinne ExpertWear shadow quad in Mocha Motion on lids. Lashes curled and Cover Girl's Lash Exact mascara in black applied. On lips is L'Oreal's Glam Shine Sorbet in Jubilee.

Tuesday

Doctor's appointment (yes ladies, the fun annual one), and then work. Black tape-yarn sweater with scoop neck, empire waist and short sleeves from old Navy, suiting trousers in Palomino from Ann Taylor, round toe pumps from Jessica Simpson, black coral necklace from Mexico, silver cuff bracelet.

Hair was washed but not conditioned because I ran out of my lovely Kiwi ColorReflect. I added the Curly Sexy Hair Curl Power and let it air dry all the way and then hit just the bangs with the curling iron. Boy it made my hair super curly, but in a weird kinky strange sort of way. Sort of looks like my hair at the beach after a long hot, sweaty day playing in the surf. Not sure how I feel about that...

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation in C3, concealer in W4-5, Nars blush in Orgasm. Eyes is a bit of ivory from the Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis on the inner corners and along brow bone, lashes curled and Cover Girl Lash Exact applied with a coat of DiorShow Unlimited over it. Think line of Maybelline UltraLiner in black on top lash line. On lips is The Body Shop's lipcolor in Damson.

Updating your Wardrobe for Spring/Summer 2007

Each season I try to give you a few pieces that can be added to your wardrobe to give it a fresh look. Many seasons it’s pretty cut and dry – a chunky heel, a metallic sandal, a white sundress. This spring is not so specific. There are a few trends that seem big for this spring, but that does not mean you have to subscribe to them.

High waists are in style, but unless you have six-pack abs, you shouldn’t go anywhere NEAR this trend. Recently on Go Fug Yourself they featured a post about the lovely Jessica Simpson in this style and even SHE looked dumpy.

Leggings are still trendy under short baby-doll style dresses and tunics. The problem is that unless you are a hipster, you will look as though you are dressed for an 80s costume party. I recently went to a wedding where a woman with a slim, tall frame was wearing a black boatneck a-line mini dress with black leggings and pewter metallic flats. This is a look that could be seen on Sienna Miller, but on this 30-something woman, she looked a bit ridiculous. She had the body type, but when an outfit like this is put into regular society, unless you have the personality to be a bit quirky and artsy, it will look like a costume, not fashion. If you haven’t tried leggings since the 80s, I say there is no point in trying them now.

Skinny jeans are still all the rage. Tight, dark, stretchy and bunching at the ankles, they are seen with heels and flats on all types of celebrities. Unless you are built like these celebrities and again, have the personality to be quirky and trendsetting, don’t buy into this style. Like leggings, these can easily look like a costume. Also like leggings, this style of jean will only accentuate the negative. Tight jeans like this will make your legs look shorter, your hips wider, your thighs fuller, your bum rounder. Unlike straight, slightly slim or bootcut jeans, these stovepipes can only go with certain tops without you looking like a streetwalker or a lollypop.
Jeans from Saks Fifth Avenue


Babydoll dresses and tops can seem like great camouflage for a belly, but if you have curves elsewhere (especially the bust) you can end up looking larger, instead of smaller. These full tops often end just where your hip widens, hiding not just your belly but any feminine shape at all. Babydoll dresses also disguise any feminine shape and often look more muumuu than modern. A sleeveless babydoll can make the most waifish of arms and shoulders look as though they belong to a linebacker.

With all this negativity, you may throw your hands up and hide in your husband’s sweats. Not to fear, there are some really cute trends for the warmer months that look good on a multitude of shapes!
Dress from Nordstrom

Bermuda Shorts. The designers have modified this trend from last year so that it works for more body types. Last year they all seemed to be stiff, slim and hitting right at the worst part of the leg, this season there are more variety to the cut. I who despise shorts, found some very cute flattering styles at Old Navy – washed linen, lightweight cotton, straight cuts with a bit of give, a shorter hem and a lower waist were found to be awfully flattering on my petite curvy frame. A crease down the front slims just the way it does in longer trousers, and lighter weight fabrics don’t add bulk to the parts to the body that already have enough shape. Keep in mind that with longer trousers, a cuff will shorten and thicken a leg; if you have this problem look for a simpler style. As with skirts, do not have the short end at the widest part of your leg. Just above to mid of knee covers hips and thighs but shows that you have nice gams below. Stay away from heavy twills and denim; a lighter fabric like cotton denim, cotton blends and linen are more forgiving to the body. Also, as with skirts a heel on your shoe will add length and a slimming look to your leg. Many styles are appropriate for business casual; a pair of Bermudas with a blazer, shell and wedge slingbacks can be quite sassy. For a night out, consider Bermudas with a silky camisole, long necklace and some strappy heels. For the weekend, Bermudas can be cute with a polo shirt or scoopneck tee and wedge sandals. However if you have tried many styles and still feel as though they aren’t flattering, do not buy into this trend. Capris and skirts are still hot for this season, stick with what makes you comfortable.
Shorts from J. Crew

Contrast Brights. I am so excited for this trend, I think there is nothing more fun than a Crayola-pop of color in an outfit. A simple white shirt and black capris are transformed with a bright red belt. A simple khaki sheath dress is taken to a new level with Kelly green patent-leather heels. A gray suit gets a makeover with a yellow bead necklace or an orange silk-knit shell. The color I am happiest to see come back to stores is cobalt blue. This bright color is a fun accent to many neutrals and a real change to the basic red. A bright blue purse is an expected yet attractive compliment for gray, khaki, brown, black, white, cream and even navy. Consider switching out the belt on a dress or jacket with a blue patent leather one, or find a blue silk scarf to use as a belt, neck accessory or headband (a very popular hair accessory this season; use bobby pins to keep in place).
Belt from Torrid

Girly Touches. After many minimalistic seasons, the girly frills are back. Eyelet dresses and jackets in white, black and candy hues; rosettes on everything from dresses to purses to shoes, cabbage roses and other traditional floral patterns adorning dresses and even slingback heels. If you have a weakness for Laura Ashley, this is your season! If not, same-fabric rosettes can be a nice touch on the waistband a solid-colored silk dress and the floral-printed shoes are a funky accessory to pair with jeans and a simple white shirt. Eyelet can be surprisingly modern if in the shape of a solid white tailored blazer or black sheath dress with apple green lining. These feminine pieces are a great way to jazz up your wardrobe basics!
Shoes from Zappos, Jacket from Nordstrom


Polkadots. Polkadots are like animal prints, they never seem to go out of style if done in a subtle manner. However this season, there is no need to keep your polkadots reserved to accessories. They are seen everywhere from shirt dresses to heels to headbands. Polkadots look best when used with retro fashions – a dotted full skirt with a twinset looks fresh, dotted baggy cropped pants with a tunic does not. This season’s dots are small, feminine and mainly kept with traditional shades such as black, navy, red and white. A navy polkadot blazer can look hip with white jeans and tank, a black dotted skirt looks darling with a white short-sleeved sweater and black belt. Red polkadots look great on shoes and other accessories (and combine with the contrast brights trend). As with animal prints and other patterns, keep your dots to one piece only. Dotted shoes do not call for dotted scarf and purse. Too many dots can look costumey, keep it minimal and you will keep it stylish.
Dress from Nordstrom, shoes from Piperlime

In general, this season seems to be The Beautifying of the Basic. Fun and feminine touches to the classic dress, jeans, white shirt and trousers. Accessories such as belts, bags and fabulous shoes add interest and color. Feminine fabrics and patterns add a fresh spin to classic pieces and the amount of variety allows every woman to look attractive, stylish and most of all, HERSELF. So enjoy shopping, for this season there is a trend out there made just for you!

Online Vendor Review - Custom Glam Girl

Internet shopping can be sketchy. You may not receive what you ordered, it may be packed so clumsily that it arrives damaged… if at all. Quality doesn’t always match the photographs and return policies may make it more worth your while to stick with your defective purchase.

Much of this is because it’s very cheap for a company to start up online. No rent to pay, no utilities, no need for stock or employees even. The entire business can take place in a person’s dining room during the commercial breaks of an episode of grey’s Anatomy.

Sometimes… one can be blown away by a small internet company. It may be the quality, the prices, the variety, the service. In the case of Custom Glam Girl, I have to say it’s because of All Of The Above. This is probably why this company has been big enough to be featured in many magazines, TV shows and be sported by many celebrities (none of this I knew when I found the site).

My husband and I are friends with a dear couple; the husband is one of three sons and they all have the last name “Jones.” Growing up the brothers were always lumped together as “The Jones Boys” and when they grew up, they all went and got tattoos in Old English script that say, “Jones Boy” on their forearms. When I found out that our friends were pregnant with a boy, I knew I needed to get them some piece of baby clothing stating this on the front.

While trolling the internet, I found Custom Glam Girl. Unlike many of the other baby sites, this one didn’t just carry cutesy blue and pink frilly pieces with hearts. They had more rocker looking ideas, and that was more appropriate for this couple and their son-to-be. Though their site was extensive (and their site easy to navigate), I didn’t see exactly what I was looking for. I called their toll-free number and was immediately connected to a really peppy and friendly agent. I told her what I was looking for, Told her the style of font, the wording and how I wanted it placed on the onesie. She was patient with me and quite helpful and friendly. I placed the order late on April 6th, the agent told me that it would be about 1-2 weeks for processing and shipping. I feared I was cutting it very close for the shower on the 23rd, but kept my fingers crossed.

I had nothing to fear, the onesie came in on the 13th. It wasn’t cheap knit, it was well made, thick, and the screen-printing was solid and not likely to peel or fade after a couple of washings (check out the picture that I took after it arrived). Not only did it arrive in a heavy plastic shipping bag, it came with a legible packing slip AND a free gift! I received for free a silvertone necklace with a heart with wings and matching earrings.

This item arrived the same day that I got a package from American Apparel. Unlike Custom Glam Girl, American Apparel is a global company with stores as well as their internet shop. The items from American Apparel came thrown into a bag, the bag covered with writing via a Sharpie, the packing slip crumpled the bag looked as though it was sealed in the dark (all crooked and stuck upon itself and smooshed). The fabric of the onesie from Custom Glam Girl was better quality than the tees I got from American Apparel.

The onesie cost $19.95, which I felt was reasonable for the quality (higher quality than the one I got from Snapfish), and shipping was a standard $5.95. This company sells most anything you could get personalized, from tees and hoodies to engraveable flasks in a rainbow assortment of colors. I have bookmarked this site for future reference and think it’s a great place to get a fun and creative gift for someone!

New Clothes for Sale!

I know I have been neglectful over at Dilly's Closet... well this weekend I got into the attic and pulled out some really great stuff (great for another, not for me!).

I spent a good portion of Saturday in the attic. I pulled down all of the bags of clothing (8 XXL Ziploc bags and about 4 garbage bags) and cleaning out my drawers and closets. After everything, I had two XXL bags of clothes to put back up in the attic (out of season and almost fitting or belonging to the hubby) , five of those giant bags in my car to take to donate, and then several to post ehre for you guys.

There is more to post, but a gal's gotta make a living so I hope to post the rest later today or msot likely on tomorrow. Enjoy!

Monday

Orange cotton v-neck sweater from J. Crew, denim trousers from Gap, leopard peep-toe heels from BCBGirls, silver necklace from Ann Taylor Loft, silver cuff bracelet.

Hair is second day, blown out staight with round brush, then a few pieces hit with the curling iron for texture, then a bit of Jonathan Dirt for pieceyness.

Makeup is L'Oreal true Match foundation in C3, Nars blush in Orgasm, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in inner corners and long brow bone, olive on lid and along lash lines. Lashes curled and a coat of Cover Girl Lash Exact in black with Diot Show Unlimited in black over it. On lips is e.l.f. Super Glossy lip Shine in Watermelon.

Sunday

Baby shower and Book Club. Teal dress from Proenza Schouler for Target collection. I went to Target on Friday to buy the last of the baby shower gift and saw this dress on sale for $20 and the last one there and nice enough to be a size Large. A good replacement from my kimono-style dress from the Paul and Joe Target collection that got washed a few too many times and now is in the clothing donation bag in the back of my car. This one is a silkier knit and has a lined skirt and a shorter length that I find to be more flattering.

With it I wore my leopard print peep-toe heels from BCBGirls and my sivler cuff bracelet.

Hair is washed, conditioned and Curly Sexy Hair's Curl Power applied. Allowed to air dry 90% and then dried the rest with a diffuser and hit the front stright pieces with a curling iron.

Makeup is L'Oreal true Match foundation in C3, Nars blush in Orgasm, L'Oreal Juice Stick in Strawberry Fields, Maybelline ExpertWear shadow quad in Mocha Motion - the taupe shade on the lids and along the lash line. lashes curled and DiorShow Unlimited mascara in black applied.

Friday

Out of respect for those at Virginia Tech who lost their lives, I wore maroon and orange this past Friday. It was a pretty awesome experience going to Target at lunch and seeing a good 70% of the crowd there in the same colors.

Black cherry tissue weight merino v-neck from J. Crew, orange cotton mini-rib scoopnecked tee from American Apparel, dark denim pencil skirt from Gap, silver cuff bracelet, teal suede wedges from Seychelles.

Hair is second day, a curling iron to the unruly pieces.

Makeup is L'Oreal Bare Naturale in True Beige, Nars blush in Orgasm, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in inner corners and long brow bone, olive on lid and along lash line. Lashes curled and Cover Girl's Lash exact mascara in black applied and then a layer of DiorShow Unlimited in black over it. On lips is Revlon ColorGlide in Rum Radiance.

The White Shirt

The Gap commissioned a couple up and coming fashion designers to create a Design Edition line based upon the white shirt. Doo.Ri, Thakoon and Rodarte created white shirts and shirtdresses that flew off the racks the first day they were displayed in New York shops. People are claiming that this Spring is The Season of the White Shirt. Fashion experts (and from the previous post you know my feelings about them) state that all women need a great white shirt in her wardrobe.

This is all a bunch of hogwash.

A white shirt is a great piece if you were born to wear white shirts. Thing is, white is not a flattering color on most people. Button-downs do not flatter voluptuous frames, and often make a slender figure look even more boyish. The collar dwarfs a petite neck, and good fit at the collar and sleeves is always a problem without tailoring. A good white shirt needs to be pressed to be crisp, and many women do not have the lifestyle that can handle crisp white cotton. If you are not the size of a mannequin, you very well may be one of the many women in the world who does not look good in a white shirt.

Even I have been caught up in the white shirt hubbub. If you look in my attic you will find one of those Ziploc XL bags full of white shirts. Soft oxfords from L.L. Bean, wrinkle-free versions from Eddie Bauer, hints of stretch in the versions from Express and Banana Republic. My closet currently holds a tailored version from Ann Taylor. When I do my seasonal Keep/Toss/Donate/Save for Later dance with my wardrobe, the white shirts never hit the Toss or Donate piles. I feel that some day I may be the size and shape to sport those tops and look classically crisp and elegant.

I have a white stretchy shirt with faux diamond buttons down the front and at the elaborate French cuffs; it is by Pepe Jeans and was purchased at Urban Outfitters in 1994. It still has the tags on it for the chance that I may possibly be a Size 4 and can don its beauty. There is a wrap-style cotton/silk blend that would work if I got a breast reduction to a size B and a silk one that stains if I even breathe in its general direction.

The only reason I have only one of these dozen or so white shirts in my regular rotation: because it’s the only one that looks good on me. I went a size to accommodate my bust, and I chose a Petite cut so it doesn’t bunch at my waist or have the collar graze my ears. The buttons are set so that two buttons undone looks flattering, not slutty or overly conservative (considered saying “buttoned-up” but knew that would be far too corny). The shirt has a good percentage of spandex, so it doesn’t look a rumpled mess by the end of the day. It is a well-thought out shirt that survived the Fitting Room Workout.

If you feel that a white shirt fits your style, lifestyle and frame, do consider the Fitting Room Workout prior to taking it to the cash register (for online and catalog shopping, you can do this in the privacy of your own home):

1. Button it over your already-owned skin-colored smooth bra. Get close to the mirror, stand back, and if there is a bench, even stand on it. Examine your silhouette… can you see through the shirt? Can you see the bow on the front of the bra, the mole on your shoulder or even your belly button? If you said yes to any of these, take off the shirt and leave the store.
2. Now, walk out to a mirror outside the fitting room. You are looking for different lighting. Consider a mirror inside the store itself. Again, check for transparency.
3. As you walk back to your fitting room, look down at your bust. How much is peeping out of the unbuttoned neckline? Are buttons spreading, showing the center of your bra? Is this something that can be remedied with a cleverly hidden safety pin or is it something major? If you think it can be remedied with a safety pin, then do just that. Find a pin either from a salesperson or one holding a tag to another garment. On the inside of the placket, connect the two pieces of the shirt between the buttons, ensuring you do not grab the top layer of fabric (the goal is to have the shirt connected but no metal visible). Now walk again and see if it fixes the problem. If it doesn’t, take it off and leave without it.
4. Sit down in the fitting room and see how the shirt fits. Does it strain against your arms or back? Does it ride up so you look like a hunchback? Is your bra showing?
5. Stand up, move your arms around. Pretend to reach something off a high shelf, then bend down to grab an imaginary object off the floor. Put your hands on your hips, and then put them on your head. What happens to the shirt. Are you still decent? Does the shirt still look crisp?
6. If you plan on tucking it in, try it tucked in. If you plan on wearing it untucked, make sure it is a flattering length (should not go past mid-hip, should not cover your entire crotch).
7. How does the collar fit when you button it? Baggy or suffocating? How about the sleeves… do they fall at the right length?
8. When you stand, how does the shirt fit at the small of your back? Is it bunching, or does it follow the curve of your spine?
9. And finally, will you wear it? Yes, white shirts are in every catalog, magazine and runway but that doesn’t mean you must put one in your closet. Can you see it with three different things that you already own? If not, that’s totally okay. It’s fine to not grasp on to every trend (or purchase every “Must Have”) that comes your way. A true fashionista never buys that which doesn’t make her feel utterly fabulous .

Some White Shirt Ideas:

• With dark jeans and a really fun pair of shoes (red pointy pumps, leopard print flats, gold strappy heeled sandals… you name it). A white shirt with denim is a blank canvas that you can decorate with really wonderful accessories
• With a denim or khaki skirt and flats. This is the perfect outfit for business casual work days, lunch with a friend, shopping at the mall, a casual dinner out. In Spring roll up the sleeves, in Fall consider a sweater tied around the shoulders.
• Under your favorite sweater. V-neck, crewneck, rollneck, boatneck… all these style can look great with a white shirt. Make sure there is room under the sweater so you don’t look like a sausage. Do not leave the hem untucked and showing… this was a trend a couple of years ago and looks sloppy today. Pair this with anything from jeans to trousers to a pencil skirt.
• Tied at the waist over a sundress. This is a great way to add a layer to a dress that may be too revealing for church or work. Do not button the shirt, just tie the ends between your rib cage and waist. Roll the sleeves, pop the collar at the back for a relaxed look. This look isn’t best for those with a tummy, but can be quite cute for some.
• With a big stretchy belt. The past two seasons have shown a ton of belts. Belts can be a style hazard for some shapes, but fabulous for others. If you lack curves, a wide belt will make you appear to have an hourglass shape. A black elastic belt with a patent buckle over a tailored white shirt can look very stylish and also a bit retro. Pair it with dark jeans, a pencil skirt or capris.
• Untucked. If the shirt has shape and scooped hems, it can be untucked. Once considered sloppy, a well-cut white shirt untucked can now seem sleek and elongating. Pair with flat-front trousers or jeans… this is a very flattering line for many figures. Jazz up the look with a bold necklace, a few bracelets or a bright colored shoe.

All shirts shown can be found at Nordstrom

The Fashion Expert

In the day and age of the internet, anyone can claim themselves to be an expert. Yesterday visiting a friend’s blog where she was discussing her plight in finding the appropriate spring wardrobe essentials I saw a comment from another blogger, “if you need any shopping advice, come to my blog, I am a shopping expert!”

A shopping expert, how does one become a shopping expert? Do you get a B.A. in Retail Consumerism, and then your SEC (Shopping Expert Certificate) after logging 1,600 hours of experience and finishing a grueling exam? Who checks these credentials? Does being a person with an unhealthy shopping habit make one a shopping expert? Sounds like a lot of bunk to me.

Then call me a shopping expert. I have been a shopaholic since the days of drooling over the new Barbie fashions at Toys R Us. I used to hide the latest JC Penney catalog under my bed, circling all the frocks I dreamed my parents would buy me. My high school days were spent more in the mall than in the classroom and let’s not even get into my decade working in the retail industry where I was for a while a… PERSONAL SHOPPER! Wow, can I put some fancy letters after my name in my email signature? Should I order myself some business cards? Update my resume?

But then think about yourself. You may be here because you desire fashion or style advice. You are looking for assistance. Think how you are a help, an expert in some other category. Maybe it’s accounting, maybe it’s cooking, maybe it’s French, maybe it’s parenting, maybe it’s pottery. You might be a fabulous singer, have a knack for remembering movie quotes or are the one all your friends come to when they need an ear or a shoulder to lean on. How did you learn these traits? Yes some is just born talent, but much is experience. You tried it, saw you either liked it or excelled at it and continued. You failed on occasion, but you also succeeded quite often. You are now relatively confident in your abilities and heck… you could start a blog and consider yourself and expert.

If you could do that with the flute, graphic design, baking or knitting, why can’t you with your personal style? Blogs like mine should not be considered gospel, nor should any other website or self-help book you read. As with a college degree, this is all research toward your own style certification. Your body is your science lab where you run experiments on blush shades and skirt lengths. As in a regular experiment, you have a hypothesis and a conclusion. You can only learn from experimenting.

The way I thought of the basics is through trial and error. I have been fat, I have been thin, I have been everything in between. I have been paid to dress people, and I have done it for my mom and friends. Through experiments with clothing on their bodies and mine I have come to the conclusion that these basics should work on almost every female body. As for your personal sense of style, you can read all the books, magazines and blogs you desire but no one can tell you this. Only you can come to the conclusion of what is right for you.

I was watching an old episode of Beverly Hills 90210 on cable the other day. It was from the first season when Kelly and Donna were shown as very wealthy and a stark contrast to Brenda from the Midwest. Kelly and Donna were in primary colors, layers, funky cuts and fabrics. No brand names were in sight and if we researched the designers of these duds, we may possibly find out that they were crafted by the costume designer for the show and not Gucci or Versace. I was thinking about great moments in award show fashion and I remember the time that Sharon Stone wore her husband’s white dress shirt to the 1998 Oscars and was on everyone’s Best Dressed List. Would that happen in this era of the Designer? Everything now is about the brand; it seems as though it is more acceptable to wear ugly designer pieces than attractive no-name garments. So much bad yet expensive fashion is now on the streets, it must be hard for women to know what is style and what is correct.

Again, only you can decide. I have personally decided that I don’t care about labels; I buy only what I find attractive. It’s like buying a Monet just because it’s a Monet, yet you hate Impressionistic art. There are some people out there who do that because they would love to have it on their wall to impress their friends and look cultured and rich. And then there are those who buy art because it is beautiful and inspiring. It may be a famous artist, it may be an unknown but it is clear that it is a true work of art. Guests may look at the painting and wonder if it is a famous artist, but they will be more interested in the composition, the use of light and texture, the way the painting highlights the glossy wood floors and the beautiful couch.

No one can tell you what type of paintings to like, no one can tell you what type of food to enjoy, no one can tell you what type of music to dance to. And no one can tell you what your personal style should be.

This is not to say stop reading this blog, or any blog for that matter. Just do your homework, read for research only, and take your findings back to the lab and come to your own discovery. For only then have you achieved true personal style and the status of Expert.

A few steps to gain personal style:

1. Clean out your closet of anything you don’t like, doesn’t fit, you never wear because it makes your physically or emotionally uncomfortable, anything stained or torn.
2. Grab all those catalogs that come to your door, and then grab a note-pad that would fit in your purse. Some are for brands you like, some you toss before even flipping a page. Scan through all of them and note what catches your eye and what makes you gag. Are you drawn to Victorian-inspired attire and hate anything Country? Note these things, as well as smaller things like colors, skirt lengths, hair styles, shoe heel heights.
3. Buy some basic staples that will get you through the week but will grow with your wardrobe as you find this personal style. Make sure they are good quality so they will last multiple seasons and washings. Better to have one great pair of black pants than four pairs of not-quite-right ones.
4. Step up your skincare regimen. Maybe now you’re lucky to wash your face before bed; for you make a promise to yourself that no matter how late, you will wash and moisturize your face for bed. Maybe you are doing this already; then promise yourself a weekly treatment of steam, a mask or a scrub. Already have the at-home spa? Consider a professional facial, they are worth the money if done by a skilled esthetician. Who care about clothes if your skin isn’t in good shape? You will also see that the better you treat your body and face, the more you care about what you dress it with.
5. Be aware of what you like in other aspects of your life. Do you prefer sushi or lasagna? Wine or iced tea? Rap or Jazz? Crime novels or autobiographies? Grey’s Anatomy or Law and Order? Shabby Chic or Le Corbusier? Make a list in this little note pad of what inspires you, appeals to you and makes you YOU. You will see some themes… these should translate to your personal style.

As any good researcher knows, it takes time and it takes multiple trials to ensure accurate results. Enjoy this period of discovery!

Check Me Out at Coutorture!

If you haven't stopped by Coutorture, I highly recommend you do. it's a great place to learn about fashion, style, beauty and to investigate a ton of blogs on these very subjects. Well the lovely ladies (and gentleman) of this site did a little interview on Moi yesterday and I have linked it here if you care to read it. Thanks!

Check me out at Coutorture!

If you haven't stopped by Coutorture, I highly recommend you do. it's a great place to learn about fashion, style, beauty and to investigate a ton of blogs on these very subjects. Well the lovely ladies (and gentleman) of this site did a little interview on Moi yesterday and I have linked it here if you care to read it. Thanks!

Thursday

Lime green lightweight merino boatneck from J. Crew, gray trousers from Limited (believe they were the "Drew" fit), black city boots from Impo, silver rings necklace from Ann Taylor Loft.

Hair is washed, conditioned and the Curly Sexy Hair'S Curl Powder applied. Hair allowed to air dry for about 15 minutes, then dried the rest with a diffuser. Curling iron to the not-curly pieces. I felt that I had to curl the whole top layer of my head because it was dry and frizzy looking. However when curled even for 5 seconds, it got a lovely luster and natural curl that blended with the rest of the head.

Makeup is L'Oreal Bare Naturale in Nude Beige, Nars blush in Orgasm, Smashbox Soft Lights in Tint (both on apples of cheeks), Maybelline ExpertWear shadow quad in Mocha Motion, the lightest gray on the lids and along the lash line and the silverly shade in the inner corners and along the brow bone. Lashes curled, Cover Girl Lash Exact in Black applied, then DiorShow Unlimited in Black. on lips is Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss in Rink Afterglow. I just couldn't get a good shot of how glossy and pretty this stuff makes my lips!

Product Review - Revlon's Super Lustrous Lipgloss in Pink Afterglow. I tried one of the Super Lustrous glosses before and didn't like it. I found it way too sticky, the fragrance a bit nauseating (like grape children's medicine) and the color all in all unimpressive. A couple weekends ago I went to the mall with my sister and as she drove us home, I rummaged through her cosmetic bag in her purse and came upon this gloss. I remembered I gave her the last Super Lustrous I owned, but it wasn't this shade. I tried it on. Oooh, it was pretty in the golden light of the setting sun! Sparkly, but not in a Tinkerbell Cosmetics sort of way. Very glossy, but not so much that I couldn't wear it to work. It was a bit gritty from the sparkles, but for some reason I liked that; it made it feel more connected to my lips. It was sticky, but in a good way. I felt the color was subtle but pretty. I bought my own a week later and still like it very much! It stays on very well, wears away naturally, has no obvious flavor or smell and doesn't dry out my lips. A Recommend from me!

Wednesday

Black knit dress with kimono sleeves from Velvet Torch, black ribbed tank from Caslon, black round toe heels from Jessica Simpson, silver cuff bracelet, faux tortoise necklace from Target.

Hair is second day, blown straight while dry with round brush and dryer, then a curling iron used on some pieces to add texture. Finally, a small amount of Jonathan Dirt for pieceyness.

Makeup is L'Oreal Bare Naturale in Nude Beige, a bit of Body Shop bronzing powder in Light, Nars blush in Orgasm, e.l.f. lipgloss in a pinky-brown shade (will get back to you on the color, just got it at Target). Eyes is The Body Shop's shadow in Slate on the lid, Soft Black in crease and along lash line. lashes curled, a layer of Cover Girl Lash Exact in Black, and then DiorShow Unlimited in Black.

Tuesday

Black cotton scoop neck, empire waist shirt sleeved sweater from Old Navy, palomino (yeah, I think that's the color) suiting trousers from Ann Taylor, black round toe high heeled pumps from Jessica Simpson, silver hoops and cuff bracelet, necklace from Marshall's of sea glass and silver wire.

New Hair Product - This hair style is a result of using Curly Sexy Hair's Curl Power. Meant for fine to medium curly hair, I believed it to be a good choice for my head. It's in a blue aerosol can, is to be sprayed onto damp hair. I figured it would be a mist a la hairspray. Not so much, I sprayed it and it came out like a foamy mist that left white droplets all over my head and foam all over the nozzle. I rubbed it in and let it air-dry for about 30 minutes, then scrunched and dried with a diffuser on Warm. My hair was left... well it wasn't as soft and silky as with other products, but it hard more body. When I curled it with the curling iron, it seemed to hold better. My hair wasn't as polished looking, I looked more like these rocker boys with long messy curled hair... good for a day at the beach but not quite so work-appropriate. The curl-resistant parts of my hair (the front) didn't seem to curl any better, but held the ironed curls better. After curling I used a bit of BioSilk for some shine. What I do like about this product is that is gives good hold... my hair looked the same by the end of the day and it was a windy and dreary day. Often my curls are just waves by 5pm. I will keep trying this product.

As for my makeup, it's L'Oreal Bare Naturale mineral foundation in Nude Beige, Nars blush in Orgasm, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in inner corners and along brow bone, olive on lid and along lash lines. Lashes curled and Cover Girl Lash Exact mascara in Black applied. On lips is a L'Oreal Longwear lipstick (gold tube) in a rum shade, with Sally Hansen's Diamond Lipcolor in Champagne Toast over it.

Monday

Another gross and rainy day, this time with major winds. Glad that my city boots are fake leather, keeps my feet nice and dry! Royal blue scoop-neck tee from American Apparel, coral ribbed tank from Old Navy, black stretch twoo trousers from Caslon, black city boots from Impo, silver hoops and cuff, silver and leather necklace from Chico's.

Hair is second day, curling iron to a few unruly pieces and ends brushed out.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation in C3, concealer in W4-5, Nars blush in Orgasm, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in inner corners and along brown bone, olive on lid and along lash lines. Lshes curled and Cover Girl Lash Exact in black applied. On lips is Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss in Pink Afterglow.

Here's my little story about buying the wrong thing. I am to the very end of my True Match foundation, storing it upside down and digging out remnants on the cap. I went to Target on Sunday to buy a new bottle and they were completely out of the C3. They had one bottle of the N3, and I decided to get that instead. My friend said I probably shouldn't because it may not be as good of a match, but I felt desperate for SOMETHING and grabbed it (along with the new Revlon lipgloss and a lipgloss from e.l.f. that I have not yet opened). At the register, I went to grab my purchases from my friend's cart and in doing do, I dropped the bottle of N3 foundation and it exploded all over the floor. Fate was telling me not to buy that wrong color for when I dashed back to grab a second bottle, N3 was now sold out. I stopped by CVS on the way home and they were sold out of the C3 and N3 as well. The moral of the story is if an item is not right, do not buy it or else the employees of Target may be cursing you as they clean up the mess!

This Weekend

Morning yoga on Saturday. Walked to class, it was lovely in the morning, but got pretty cold and rainy later in the day. Cadet blue tee from Mossimo, black yoga pants from ProSpirit, hibiscus hoodie from Gap, hiking shoes from L.L. Bean. Hair is second day, just blown straight while dry where there was behead. No makeup. Had a good yoga session, then had tea with my mom at a nearby cafe and walked home.

I had to go to the accountant to sign my taxes once I got home, so I switched to Express bootcut jeans and a bit of L'Oreal True Match foundation in C3 and Cover Girl Lash Exact mascara in black and Revlon ColorGlide Sheer in Sheer Burgundy so didn't look as naked. Not super sassy, but I was out for a very short time then headed home to complete tasks around the home and then have Netflix Night with the hubby (saw Half Nelson, was very good. Sad and upsetting and awful, but terribly good acting).

Sunday started with brunch and then errand running with a friend. Very rainy day. Black ribbed tank from Caslon, black and gray striped stretch v-neck sweater from Banana Republic, dark cotton denim patch-pocket jeans from Gap Outlet, black city boots from Impo, silver hoops and cuff bracelet.

Hair was washed, conditioned, Suave Professionals Healthy Curls mousse applied while damp and allowed to air dry 50%. Then dried with diffuser and curling iron to the unruly parts. It was a super rainy day and was humid even in the house and the hair was crazy.

Makeup was L'Oreal True Match foundation in C3, concealer in W4-5, Nars blush in Orgasm, eyes has the Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in inner corners and along brow bone, olive on lid and along lash lines. Lashes curled and Cover Girl Lash Exact mascara in black applied. On lips is Lancome Juicy Tubes in Exposure.

That night, went to a General Admission concert in the city. I pretty much got home from errand running and had 20 minutes to get ready. Took off the sweater and put on the hoodie from the previous say (wasn't sure if I would get hot, had no time for creativity, and knew it was a low-key event), switched to my Curvy Bootcut jeans because the previous ones were sopping wet from being out in the rain. Applied a tad bit more olive shadow, a fine line of Maybelline's Ultra Liner in black to the top lash line, and Revlon's Super Lustrous Lipgloss in Pink Afterglow. I think the pictures my hubby takes are so funny because you can see how he is a foot taller than I; I look like a midget in his shots!

Friday

Lime green feather weight merino boatneck with wood buttons at the collar from J. Crew, dark cotton denim patch-pocket jeans from Gap Outlet, silver hoops and cuff, leopard peeptoe heels from BCBGirls.

Hair is washed and conditioned, a small amount of Sexy Straight Hair's Shine On! and Nexxus Texxtur applied to damp hair, dried straight with round brush and dryer.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation in C3, concealer in W4-5, Nars Orgasm blush on cheeks a bit heavier than usual, with Smashbox Soft Lights in Tint over it. Eyes is the ivory shadow from my Revlon ColorStay quad on inner corners and lid and brow bone. Lashes curled, first a layer of Cover Girl's Lash Exact mascara in black, then DiorShow Unlimited mascara in black over it. Cat-eye line from Maybelline Ultra Liner in black on top lash line. On lips is Maybelline's Wet Shine Diamonds Lipstick in Glowing Glimmer with Sally Hansen's Diamond Lip Treatment in Champagne Toast over it.

Thursday

Bright orange lightweight cotton v-neck from J. Crew, ivory bootcut suiting trousers from Ann Taylor, brown peeptoes with wood heels from Maripe, shell necklace from my Mom's jewelry box, silver hoops and cuff bracelet.

Hair is second day, blown straight while dry with dryer and round brush. Small amount of BioSilk to ends.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation in C3, Nars Orgasm blush, The Body Shop's Sheer Lipcolor in Sheer Caramel, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in inner corners and along brow bone, olive on lid and along lash lines. DiorShow Unlimited mascara in Black.

Wednesday

Brown merino v-neck sweater from Gap, brown and ivory and coral tweed trousers from Ann Taylor, brown leather peep-toes with wood heel from Maripe, silver hoops and cuff.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation in C3, concealer in W4-5, The Body Shop's bronzing powder in Light, a bit of Smashbox Soft Lights in Tint on the apples of my cheeks, on eyes is Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in inner corners and along brow bone, olive on lid, chocolate in crease and along lash lines. Revlon ColorGlide Sheer in Sheer Burgundy on lips.

Hair was washed, conditioned, and added Suave Professionals Healthy Curls mousse. Let is air dry for about an hour, dried the rest with a diffuser, then used a curling iron on the pieces in front that didn't curl.

Tuesday

For work, I wore my candy pink merino v-neck from J. Crew, my new stretch twill black trousers from Caslon, leopard print peep-toe heels from BCBGirls, silver cuff and hoops.

Hair was second day, blew out the curls with a round brush and the dryer. Added a bit of Jonathan Dirt for separation.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match foundation in C3, concealer in W4-5, Maybelline Dream Whipped Mousse blush in Strawberry, ivory shadow in inner corners and brow bone of lid, Slate shadow from the Body Shop in crease. Lashes curled, DiorShow Unlimited mascara in Black applied and a fine line of Maybelline UltraLiner in black on the top lash line. On lips is Sally Hansen's Diamond Lipcolor in Champagne Toast.

That evening, I had to race home and change for the funeral for a good friend's stepfather. The dog greeted me, shedding all over myCaslon trousers, so I changed to my wool-blend ones from Ann Taylor Loft. Most of my clothes are in need of a wash so i wore my black merino turtleneck from Ann Taylor, black coral necklace from Mexico, black city boots from Impo. I added some Chanel pressed powder to even out my skin tone, brushed my hair with a wood-bristle padded brush, added some Revlon ColorGlide Sheer in Sheer Burgundy.