Style Crush: Gwyneth Paltrow

Following her CMA performance and upcoming Glee episode, Gwyneth has been reminding me of just how much I love her. For years I have admired her beautiful hair, sophisticated yet slightly edgy beauty, long legs and her ability to epitomize an  “effortlessly chic” sense of style.

 By day, her look generally casual. Many times she will jazz it up with either a fitted blazer or some sort of awesome shoe or sandal. If only it could be this easy:

 
 

By night - no holds barred. As a musicians wife, she can easily ‘rock’ the “rocker look” without being too extreme by mixing sophisticated bottoms with killer booties - always. killer. booties.

 

I also love that she is incredibly eclectic on the red carpet. Some of her looks are practically iconic (i.e. pink spaghetti strap ball gown). She's done super glam, girly and edgy, all of which always manage to look like ‘her’.  

 

I could go on and on but I will digress. How does she do this?!? I credit it to both her striking good looks and confidence to pull off whatever her stylish heart desires.... (sigh) I heart her.

Product Rave: Bath & Body Works "Shea Cashmere" Body Cream

In many ways I dislike "girly" things. Don't get me wrong, I'm pretty girly but as much as I love the results, I just don't find the fun in sitting in chair for over an hour to get my hair done or have mani's and pedi's. But just recently I've come across a product that despite being so "not me" I cannot help but love. May I introduce Shea Cashmere Body Cream:

This little jar of magic retails for $17.50 at Bath & Body works and is AMAZING! I generally have dry skin, especially in the colder months. I buy most moisturizers at drug stores because I find them more effective and I am not a fan of heavily scented products that generally stock the shelves of B&BW. On a whim, however, I stopped in and saw this beauty. Both the packaging and product is very unique in comparison to the other body creams. The fragrance was slightly off-putting at first, it smells of cupcakes and although I love them, I wasn't sure I wanted to smell like them. But after awhile the smell does tone down to a nice, warm sweet smell that is non-offensive. 

The cream itself is a thick texture that melts right in to the skin and does not leave behind a sticky/greasy feeling. After applying my skin felt incredibly soft and lasted for almost the entire day! After using this for several days now my skin has begun to feel super soft even before application - a sure sign of a winner. Another sign: I'm thinking of picking up the entire collection that includes a body spray and bath gel (again, SO NOT ME). I am incredibly impressed by this product and will continue to re-purchase for a very long time. 

Bottom line: Buy this and enjoy!

Currently loving: Forever 21 Shoes

My current obsession with Forever 21 shoes has been quite a shock for me. For someone who has never bought a pair shoes from the massive retailer before, I have purchased a total of 5 pairs in the last 4 weeks! With enough patience and the right eye, navigating through Forever 21 can actually be quite fun. I love when I am able to find pieces that look incredibly expensive, well made, and unique all for under $40 MAX!

So why the sudden appeal for their shoes? They are incredibly affordable, right on trend this season, drastically change the tone of an outfit and most importantly expendable if/when damaged. With the rain being rather sporadic here in Southern California lately, I've been incredibly nervous wearing my extensive leather and suede collection around town. I have been loving sporting my F21 finds fashionably and worry free! Faux leather + a little water protectant = a happy camper.

Take a look! Like all Forever 21 merchandise, product goes FAST. If items become sold out, no fear, there are always similar styles floating about and new merchandise is being added every day:

Embellished Flats ($22.80) 

These just shout "holidays" to me! They are super adorable and surprisingly comfy. I was afraid the beaded bow would easily fall apart but they are quite resilient and instant compliment grabbers :)

Leatherette Ankle Booties ($29.80)

At last! A comfy 3 inch heel that is completely basic - in a good way. The simple silhouette and versatile color make the bootie idea for skinny jeans, trousers, skirts and dresses! My favorite way to style these bad boys: Nautical striped top, denim shorts and black tights. Sassy and sophisticated...

Cold Weather Combat Boot ($32.80)

I told you I'd have my sherpa moment!!! Not only are these super warm but they add instant edge to a girly ensemble. (Think floral mini dress and black tights). These are super durable and most importantly - NOT CHEAP LOOKING! when styled with more high end pieces these boots are incredibly chic and a must have for jumping those unexpected puddles.

Leatherette Ankle Oxford Boot ($29.80)

The versatility of this bootie is rather astounding. I've worn them tied tighter paired with a skirt for a more Victorian feel and tied looser with skinny jeans for a more "lazy rocker" feel. They really do add a sense of style to a look that cannot be achieved with any of the others mentioned above which is why I've named them my M.V.P. (of this week) :)

Topstitched Short Boots ($26.80)

Otherwise known as my M.V.P. of last week! These were actually my first F21 shoe purchase and quite possibly my favorite of the bunch. They remind me of something that Rachel Bilson would wear (who happens to be one of my style icons!) which means I had to buy them immediately. I like to pair them with chunky socks peeking out from the top. So plain, so versatile, so many possibilities, SO PERFECT! 

Bottom line: It's never any fun toting around the yellow neon bag of shame but sometimes it's totally worth it!

"Harujuku girl I really like your style"...

So a few years back I came across this site through a random series of clicks. It's called YesStyle.com and as someone who loves internet shopping, I must say, it's pretty amazing. They carry a HUGE range of clothing, accessories and cosmetics from designers all across Asia. They also include style tips, look books and it's own blog.

The Good: the clothing is absolutely unique and inspiring. It's no surprise that many U.S. Clothing lines have their merchandise manufactured over seas but the difference here is that the pieces on YesStyle are designed primarily for an Asian culture. They have a hip, cool, layered, baggy yet tailored look to them that is, fit and style-wise, unlike anything I've seen in American stores. 

Asia and Asian street style has set many trends that's eventually go mainstream (I.e. Gwen Stefani circa 2005) so even if you decide not to buy, it's a great site just to browse. You'll find inspiration that rivals the likes of  fashion magazine sites, lookbook or chictopia. You can shop a variety of looks and vibes from super funky to office appropriate and find accessories with the simplest, yet much appreciated, details. Other pros include that the site is super easy to navigate, prices are in U.S. dollars, they provide tons of views on the item you're viewing and they frequently have sales and promos - awesome right!   

The bad: (because nothing is ever perfect) Clothing isn't the cheapest. The items are exports and super unique to the U.S. so don't expect a Forever 21 shopping spree. With that being said, it's not super expensive either, in fact, it's considerably reasonable (starting from $20 - $100+). Sizes are confusing sometimes and do take awhile to decipher due to the fact each country is different. Many pieces come in "one size" which can also be tricky sometimes. Bottom line, know your measurements and have a tape measure handy. 

Overall, I find this gem to be a diamond in the e-tailer rough. As someone who admires the 'Asian rockstar' style and is sick of asking the Japanese foreign exchange student "where did you get that" - only to be bummed that it's definitely not local, I was extremely pleased to find this site. Visit here and let me know what you think!        

Must have's: Cold Weather Accessories

To quote an all time favorite movie of mine, “Don’t forget your booties cause it’s coooold out there today!” That’s right, it’s winter time folks which means it’s time for all you boot lovin’, scarf wearin’, umbrella touting ladies to rejoice! Todays post is about some of my favorite cold weather accessories because there’s nothing better than staying warm and looking chic. Take a look:

Clear bubble umbrella: If any of you have been watching the new season of Gossip Girl then you may have already taken notice of the ever so essential clear bubble umbrella carried by both Serena and Blair.

I fell instantly in love with the “it’s raining but not cold” vibe given off and had to have it immediately. I was lucky enough to find mine at Target for only $16.99. (Feeling like upper east sider, however, PRICELESS!)

Tall boots with socks: My winter/fall/anytime routine usually always consists of a skinny jean paired with tall boots. To add some extra oomph to my look i’ve been wearing chunky tall socks over my jeans to pop out slightly from the tops of my boots. The added touch is slight but absolutely adorable and can add some extra edge to a basic look depending on your sock color. Below is Frye’s interpretation for warmer weather.

Crochet ear warmers: Year after year I turn to the beanie or barret to keep my noggin warm but this year I decided to take a little step outside the box. I recently found this etsy seller who makes the most adorable head bands/ear warmers! SEE HERE! They are reasonably priced at around $15 - $18 and come in a variety of styles and colors! I will be picking up these 2 in particular very shortly...

Other must have items also include eternity/circle scarves, long fingerless gloves, vampy nail color and even perhaps a nylon puffer handbag (see American Apparel, GAP and Marc by Marc Jacobs for some great examples). My goodness - so many items, so little time *sigh*.

But perhaps the most essential item for me is WATER PROTECTANT for all of my leather and suede shoes and handbags. An absolute MUST I tell you! Spray on a nice layer (or two) to your pricey belongings and you’ll be sitting pretty when those unexpected showers begin to drop. A good protectant will run you anywhere from $7.99-$20 depending on the brand but believe me, well worth it at any cost.

So there are my “essentials” hope you enjoyed!

Product Rave: Neutrogena Eye Makeup Remover Lotion

I'm sure I don't need to tell you this but removing your makeup at night is absolutely essential. It's also something I hate doing and struggle with every night. I have, however, found an awesome product that I'd like to share with you! If you're anything like me, removing eye makeup can be tricky. I hate liquid removers (I'm talking to you, Lancome Bi Facil). I just find them rather greasy and hate that I have to use cotton balls. Makeup removing pads and cloths never seem to do the trick either and end up irritating my lids. 

Solution? Why, it's Neutrogena Eye Makeup Remover Lotion silly!

Before using this, I was using Pond's Cold Cream as my remover but getting product out from the bottom of the pot was never much fun. Neutrogena's formula is very similar to Pond's but is less heavy, greasy and it's unscented. It is extremely effective at removing MOST if not all heavy eye makeup (i.e. waterproof mascara) but whatever might be left can be simply washed away with a following cleanser. It does not irritate eyes and, just as it states, is pretty hydrating as well. I bought mine at Ulta for about $5 which so far, is the only place I've seen it. But I'm sure it will soon be popping up everywhere seeing as it's still new to the market.

HOW TO USE: Squirt out about a dime sized amount of product and gently rub all over you eye. After a few seconds you will begin to see and feel your makeup break down and melt. After about 10 seconds wipe the product away using a soft tissue/toilet paper or (as I prefer) as warm washcloth. 

THE BEST PART (in my opinion) and what really makes this a product rave is that it's perfect for travel! I don't mean it's easy to bring over night with you for a sleep over. I'm talking TSA approved. It's exactly 3oz. which means you can pack it in your carry-on and keep it with you. Which also means, less chances of a makeup remover explosion in luggage extravaganza (once again, I'm talking to you Lancome Bi Facil). I highly recommend this product and I do not considerate excessive in the least. After all, eyes should always be cared for. 

Well that concludes my product rave folks. I hope you try it! And if you do - I hope you love it! 

Till next time... 

Mini Haul: Mac, Bobbi Brown & Shoes!!!

Mac's Venomous Villains collection came out today - as if you didn't know. I'm not a fan of the packaging so I have no intentions on going nuts on this collection. I did, however, fall in love with a few products. Some unique, some not so much but all 100% awesome. Whilst there, I decided to pick up of few other things. I present to you a tiny haul with some added comparisons:

All the black in this photo makes my haul seem kind of sad. Let me include some stock photos to give you a better idea of my un-sad shoes purchases

Chinese Laundry - Sweet Caroline
on sale for $19.99

Nine West - Maeble
(This zipper zips down to create a wide/flared opening - adorable!)

moving on....

my Mac purchases: 

Mineralize eyeshadow duo in She Who Dares (Maleficent). A sparky navy paired with sparkly hunter green. Pigmented enough to wear dry but will make a killer evening look applied wet.

The first thing I noticed was how much larger it was than other mineralized shadows I've bought in the past. It's the usual .07 oz yet its actual width is larger than even a cream color base. It's also slightly pricer than usual ($21.00 vs $19.50) all this this for a tacky image? Whatever, it's unlike anything I already have and I absolutely love mineralized products so I guess it's worth it to me. (Rationalize purchase: CHECK!)

LipGelee in Resort Life (Dr. Facilier) I am IN LOVE with this!! A sparkly taupey/apricot color with tons a refined gold and pink glitter. It may sound juvenile (and thanks to the terrible packaging, may even look so) but this will look so stunning on any skin tone. I prefer the consistency then that of that of a lipglass, it's still sticky but has better longevity on. I'm contemplating purchasing a back up as we speak... 

Over Hue Lipstick

Grease Paint Stick in French Quarter

I LOVE me some grease paint sticks. My general eyeshadow routine will almost always include a dark base. When I saw French Quarter, however, I was afraid it might be too similar to my all time favorite GPstick in Dirty. But as you can see below, it's quite different and extremely essential! :)

above: Grease paint stick in Dirty
below: Grease paint stick in French Quarter

French Quarter is much darker, contains more brown and has hints of multi-color glitter. So gorge! Grease paint sticks never get much love but I cannot recommend this enough.

Bobbi Brown eyeshadow in Black Charcoal (metallic) vs. MAC Gazette Gray (Limited Edition)

The newest from Bobbi Brown is the Black Velvet Collection. Each shadow comes in 2 finishes, metallic and matte. Black Charcoal is a deep ashy charcoal color with lots of silver glitter. Absolutely love at first sight! Suddenly I was reminded of my other favorite grey, MAC's gazette grey form the Pret a Papier collection. I went home and immediately compared. Once again, I was pleased by their differences: 

above: BB Black Charcoal
below: MAC Gazette Grey

Black Charcoal is quite dark whereas Gazette Grey has a much cooler tone and subtle gold flecks. When paired with French Quarter Grease Paint stick you are in for the most gorgeous sultry smokey eye!

Pretty successful Thursday if I may say so myself. What are your thoughts?

Faux fur and animal prints - oh my!

Fall fashion is in full effect (despite the record breaking heat upon us here in southern california) but I for one, am very excited! So Cal is not exactly the best place to cultivate my obsession with scarves, boots and outerwear but I do my best to compromise.

Faux fur can be expected every year but this year in particular, I am intrigued. Now, I've already proclaimed my love for my faux fur Rachel Zoe vest but I'm ready for more.Topping my list of must haves include shearling and (dare I say it) animal print. 

Shearling. Seen on the runway from Burberry to Michael Kors but I must admit, what finally got me was the simple H&M commercial featuring model Elisa Sednaoui in a "leather" motorcycle jacket with Sherling collar for only $39! I immediately rushed to purchase this item only to find it sold out (cut to me desperately trying to justify buying the only jacket left that was 2 sizes too big) Despite my fail, a perfect Shearling moment will come soon - mark my words!

Burberry

Alice+Olivia

Hunter

Michael Kors

Animal print: for years I've associated animal prints with tacky women who smoke cigarettes and gamble too much - Pegg Bundy, if you will. But I cannot help but be tempted by the lovely neutral-ness of the leopard pattern. A simple way to to add some bold interest and edge to a simple look. I'm going to start small. Something like a scarf or handbag paired with a simple tunic and black leggings. Here are some added ideas to chew on.

 

 


Please let me know what you think of these trends. Yay? Nay?

Product rave: Maybelline Define-A-Lash (The ultimate base coat!)

Do you have stick straight lashes? Is it difficult to hold their curl? Is it difficult to get both volume and length? If you answered "no" to these questions then I'm completely jealous of you and ask that you stop reading this right now - but please do continue to read my other posts :) If you answered "yes" however, then allow me to introduce you to your new best friend:

Maybelline Define-A-Lash mascara has served as my must have base coat for several years now. If you've never worn a base coat on your lashes then let me tell you, you've been missing out! A base coat works a primer for your lashes, allowing them to reach their full potential through whatever mascara you may layer on top. 

My lashes are super straight and do not hold curl for very long. To achieve an alert and sexy wink, I simply apply this 3 step process. 

1. Curl. I use my Shu Uemura eyelash curler (also another must have for those with stick straight lashes)

2. Apply 1 coat of my define-a-lash to both top and bottom lashes

3. wait about 20 seconds and then apply as many coats of your favorite mascara (my top 3 include MUF Smokey Lash (love, love, love!) , Loreal Telescopic and Loreal Voluminous)

Why it works: Most mascaras are too wet and therefore weigh down naturally straight lashes, even after curling. Define-a-lash is a lightweight formula that seems as though your not applying anything at all to them but trust me, you definitely are. The wand is rubber and shaped to ensure every lash is coated evenly. Your curl will be held in place so well its as if you applied hairspray to them (without all the painful aerosol side effects). Once applied, your lashes will have enough strength to react to any mascara there after. 

I definitely recommend trying this mascara. It usually runs between $6-7 at any drugstore, target, grocery store etc. and since your using so little, it lasts forever (or at least the recommended 2 months that you should keep your mascara). If you struggle with straight lashes and maintaining curl please give this a shot, if you're not happy with it -- well, I cant refund your money but I really think you will be happy so don't worry about it :) 

Questions, comments, concerns?...

Lovely foundations for sensitive skin

My skin is very much like a child. It's temperamental, sensitive and needs to be constantly taken care of. And just like a child, when it leaves the house, you want to make sure he/she is presentable to the public. Okay, enough with the metaphor - lets talk foundation. I have a small but important list of qualifications for mine:

1. It can't break me out. My skin is extremely reactive to anything I put on it. It's normal/dry and extremely acne prone. I'm afraid of what my skin might do with new products and I don't have the time or money for experimentation. Therefore I don't "try out" many foundations and I only use 2 specific brands - but more on that later.

2. The finish needs to look natural. I for one, cannot pull of the heavy makeup mask look. It seems the more I put on, the worse I look. My foundation needs to leave behind a satin finish, impart at least medium coverage and look as natural as possible.

 I've tried many duds over the years, hopped onto some bandwagons that led to disappointing results (I'm talking to you, NARS sheer glow) and put my faith in products that I probably shouldn't have. Clinique, Lancome and MAC have all experienced the bitter taste of defeat when challenged by my skin. But there is hope. I have found pleasant results this year finding not one but two great foundation brands:


Makeup Forever HD & Face and Body

HD is my absolute favorite when it comes to looking flawless in photographs or on camera. It meets all of the qualifications listed above plus feels like nothing on my skin. Its liquidy in consistently and pretty easy to apply given the right tools. Personally, I prefer the Sephora Professional Line brush in the #55 airbrush (silver handle). A sponge will work well to but it wastes too much product for my liking, after all its $40. For reference I wear #125 and am NC20 in MAC. The scent is mild and non offensive. There is a huge array of color choices at Sephora so as a tip, I suggest looking at the website and writing down the possibilities based on their color descriptions beforehand. Downside - cause there's always a downside - is that it does require a good finishing powder and a mid day touch up. This was the first foundation that actually made my dry skin look shiny by mid day. It was weird but I'm over it because the good far outweighed the bad. But I don't know, however, if I would recommend this to someone with very oily skin. Perhaps makeup forever's Mat Velvet +.....

Face and Body was a LIFESAVER this summer. If you live in an area with high heat and/or humidity you NEED this foundation. The air conditioner at my work had broke leaving me trapped in a hot box of 80+ degrees for 8 hrs a day/5 days a week. I was hot, sweaty, grumpy (basically all of the seven dwarfs in one) but it never once showed on my face! In fact by the end of the day my makeup was perfectly in tact and the humidity had left behind a lovely dew on my complexion. Winner, winner, chicken dinner!!!!

***next up***

Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation & Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer

Silk Creme is a slightly thick formula that is best applied with either a sponge, a flat top kabuki, or fingers. I like this especially in the winter time because it imparts some much needed moisture. Do not be fooled or feel taken advantage of by it's tiny tube. Believe me when I say that a little goes a long way with this little guy. A pea sized amount will give you natural, full coverage all day long.

Now although my skin is dry, I still prefer the Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer formula. You see, I'm weird and feel as though I still have to wear my regular moisturizer first (Purpose) so as to avoid a giant moisture-fest on my face, I opted for the oil free - which I adore! This is not necessarily considered makeup but the coverage far exceeds that of any light-coverage foundation. It's best used on weekends or lazy days or even everyday if your super confident about you skin. Regardless, I feel it is an absolute must have in any girl's collection - actually it probably wouldn't hurt in any guys collection either, I'm just saying..... 

A trend I can dig: Ombre/Two-toned Hair

I remember when showing roots was considered a major faux pas. These days, however, “ombre hair color” has allowed for laziness to be chic making this my favorite hair trend of the moment. I love this look because it allows me to embrace my indecisiveness between chocolate/caramel/ash blonde tones. It can also be rather cost effective and low maintenance. I love adding some lightness here and there to my dark brunette hair but adding highlights can become bothersome when I have to continuously retouch and eventually I end up with a lighter tone all together (Eff that). But with this look, all I really have to do is lighten my ends and allow the top of my hair to grow out au natural or just let my current color grow out - sold!

from thatjusthappened00.blogspot.com

Now this style can definitely get out of control. Tips that I think make the look more effortlessly chic are as follows:

No heavy contrasting colors (i.e. black roots with white tips!) You don’t want to look too harsh so unless you are Gaga please stick to gradating similar subtle tones. This works well on both natural blonds and brunettes because it looks as though your hair has just been  slightly roughed up by the sun - in a good way.

elysiumsalon.net

yusrablog.com

Add some texture.  Getting the perfect gradation can be tricky, especially if the stylist coloring your hair doesn’t quite see your vision. Stick straight hair tends to give your look away, showing off just how obvious and intentional you meant for your color to be. So I say curl it, braid it, tease it. Adding texture blurs the lines and add some oomph to your already awesome do. And although bold colors on Drew Barrymore may not come off as totally natural, at least her wavy tresses make her look freakin’ cool.  

mirror.co.uk

I’m definitely loving this look. What do you think?