A Feather Hair Accessory Experiment
September 30, 2008
Okay, here is a feather hair accessory I have somehow come into possession of (drat those pretty little impulse boxes by the register). I definitely like it on its own- it is very cute, but how to wear it in my hair and not look as though I am nesting a small family of birds. Hmmm…
This was a moment of opportunity to check and see how it would look, if you will. I had my hair in a french twist and a mass of curls to the side (from my previous post of a curly up do).
Just to test the waters, I tried placing the feathery clip in my hair to get a feel. Not so bad, definitely curious.
Personally, it could work but I think it competes with the curls too much here.. it is just unnecessary. I am determined to use the feathers, but in another style.
Simplicity works best when it comes to such bold accessories. I think a clean twist clasped by the feather accessory would look absolutely beautiful- almost like a vintage hat.
It is something I will be trying soon, but I wanted to give a little preview first and foremost.
More later- ciao!
Feather Fashion
September 23, 2008
Feathers and fashion, they can be a nice compliment to one another or an absolute mess. I think some well thought out and creatively placed feathers can come together lovely.
No one wants to look like they are wearing a chicken suit or are nesting birds in their hair, but again- a few subtle touches are beautiful and elegant.
I found this bracelet a while ago as part of a set. I loved the colors and softness on a bangle, and it would work well with most any outfit, especially those of browns and neutral shades.
Now, the set the shop had suggested with it would have been far too much for me. I think they were trying to hard to make it work- a chain link necklace draped in matching feathers, large earrings with the same…. yikes. Even those two pieces alone were enough to scream coo coo. But the bracelet was nice and simple- I think that is definitely key.
Most elegant and fashionable pieces are simple, which makes them so bold and beautiful. I am all for feathers- in small amounts and worn well.
Old Fashioned Glamour Awakens
September 21, 2008
Giorgio Armani defines classic elegance and beauty so wonderfully, and I am finding much inspiration from these looks and designs. It is very much old hollywood returned with a splash of fresh color and extra feminine softness.
The lines drop low and the fabric melts to the ground, looking as though it actually a part of the body itself. It just looks so lovely, and knowing Armani it definitely is. The photo here is from Francois Guillot, it realy captures the glamorous line well I think. Love the earings, too.
It reveals the feminine form beautifully and the colors are perfect. The hair is cute and i see what they are going for (great for the runway) but I don’t know I would do it now. Maybe keep the side swept but still with medium to long hair to blend into. Still, cute but feels kind of messy or off.
This one I like much better, hair wise at least. It looks a little fuller and connects more around (not just all the hair on the side, but it connects around the back, too, more complete). I will have to play around with it and see what I can create.
Mmm, pretty fashion- I love it. I love to see more of it and it delights me to see it on the runway. Glamorous!
Barbecue Capital Of TEXAS Is Lockhart
September 18, 2008
This is the reason we drove 150 miles west out of Houston; Kreuz. It is worth it every time. We had sat around the house with no power or water for a day when we and the neighbors began talking of warm food and instantly we all agreed to drive to Kreuz before they closed for the night (which meant we had to leave right away if we wanted any chance).
We made it in record time and enjoyed the magical experience of what is Kreuz. The smell of the building when you walk in is like nothing else- Oh how I love it!
The rub is perfect and the rule of the house is “No Fork No Sauce.”
It doesn’t need it either. (Sauce is thought to hide the lack of quality in a meat). It just melts and falls apart lovely- especially the fatty brisket pieces. So yum. (Shhh, secretly, this place is my favorite)
(Less photos though, simply because the meat did not last in front of us- too delicious. We had limited timing too!)
So the next day (Sunday, and Kreuz is not open) we visit Smitty’S, the rivalry of Kreuz. When it all began they were both Kreuz, and then a man by the name of Smitty’s joined the family in business. After the passing of the father, the children argued and eventually one kept the Kreuz name to a new building while the other kept the original building and called it Smitty’S.
Three of the number one barbecue best are all located very near each other, two being in Lockhart and the third being in Lulling (only minutes away really).
All three use the same technique of having a fire with the smoke traveling a slight distance to the meat- it requires much patience and attention and so very few continue this style of barbecue but the results go extremely far. It is well worth it.
Next, finally, is Monday’s visit to Lulling’s City Market. I cannot recall the name at the moment, but the editor or one of the writers for Gourmet Magazine named this their favorite meal ever (stating even though you would think it would be something fancy and expensive, the meat was so true and divine nothing has been better).
It comes very close to Kreuz in my opinion, VERY close. In fact I absolutely love them all. Just look at it in its divine beauty- oh so perfect. Yum!
This is barbecue done to perfection and with love. It is always the same people you see working at these places, too. I love that. They know and truly love what they do and do it extremely well.
They have been doing this for years and years, and it shows. Even the cash register has soaked in the smoke throughout the years, lol. What a lovely place to be.
Beautiful & Bold Betsey Shoes
September 17, 2008
Let’s talk about shoes, shall we. In my little spontaneous trip two of my purchases were Betsey Johnson Shoes.
There is no mistaking that bright pink box anywhere, or her shoes for that matter. They have a habit of standing out in their designs.
This is my new fun favorite little toy, the print is so bold and vibrant and the heel is simply devilish. Such a sultry little shoe- I love it.
It has just a subtle little peep toe opening in the front too, which gives it a unique little character.
A simple black dress certainly goes much further with this shoe. Little is necessary or otherwise it will compete. It is quite loud on its own (people have stopped me on the streets since I purchased them)!
Okay, now for the other pair- from red and black to black and white. Here we go.
This one is definitely younger in style and playful more than elegant. I love the black vinyl strap that wraps across the top- I think it is absolutely adorable!
Dots, little buckle, straps, open toe, and a high heel- how much fun is that? It’s precious and bold all together. What a delightful design!
Alright, more later. Much love and beautiful shoes, xx
Beauty Is Back And Loves Armani
September 16, 2008
Alright, I am hurricane Ike’d out (city is a disaster though everyone is definitely working together to get things back up and running- endless large trees scattering the streets and homes and many without power or water).
It is time for some cheering up and for me, that means food and fashion. Let’s start with a little look of fashion.
In my previous posts I mentioned I took off for some relaxation in a hotel some 150 miles away from the disaster of the city. We did some beautiful shopping and I couldn’t help but fall into this gorgeous Giorgio Armani dress.
I love Giorgio Armani- what isn’t there to love of such beautiful designs? The fabric simply melts and falls perfectly into place, it is quite simply like heaven.
And this dress, too, melts and flows off the skin just like heaven. The color is gorgeous (I love lavender/lilac shades, so soft yet so bold and elegant). Ah, heavenly!
I am starting to feel refreshed already, wow. Much more to come *hint*hint* especially shoes and delicious food 
ciao xx
Some Of Ike’s Destruction And Survivors
September 15, 2008
Well the sun is shinning and the sky is once again blue in Houston. Power and water are returning in little pockets throughout the city which is lovely to see.
After the first day without any power or water, we and the neighbors decided to make a spontaneous trip to Lockhart TX for some bbq/warm food and perhaps a stay in a hotel if it was possible. Lockhart is about 150 miles away, and so I phoned the hotel and discovered they had only two rooms available- perfect! We ended up staying a couple of nights there and absolutely enjoyed ourselves.
Now, when we left we had two bags of ice from before the storm. One was in a cooler along with any meats and cheeses we had. The other I placed in the freezer to act as a second cooler for the meantime. I had placed some sodas in there as well- so they would be chilled for later and last longer.
Now, when I say spontaneous I mean we thought up the idea and acted on it within ten minutes- packing a very light and very quick overnight bag just in case. (It is a 2-2 1/2 hour drive and the restaurant would be closed in 3 hours, we had to act fast). So we acted quickly and things like the soda were left in the freezer (no electricity anyway at the time).
Well, upon returning home the power must have come on late last night for sure enough there was quite a mess, lol. Vodka survived just fine… luckily for me I usually only keep vodka and some dessert wine in my freezer (I know, I know- its me though). I can live with that being the only destruction in my house.
Now outside was a different story. There is some roof damage apparent, but I still am not sure of the severity. A lot of water did make it through in the hallways of our apartment complex (everything is indoors, much like the layout of a hotel).
Our fence is, well, gone for the most part. So are all of those in the buildings around us. Much tree damage to be seen just about everywhere in the city, though again things certainly could have been much worse and I am grateful they were not.
This is a view outside our balcony of the courtyard entry way, our trees lining the walkway have ben smoothed down by the storm. All our windows are in tact though I cannot say the same for much of downtown.
Phew, I am exhausted. Much cleaning and much traveling. I’ll be posting again soon with some happier, yummier, prettier posts. Great food and three new gorgeous shoes were also a result of this storm for me, and you will be seeing them shortly. Until then, much love- xx Bombshell Beauty
Ike Update And My Dissapearance
September 14, 2008
Well, no power or water as to be expected like much of the rest of the city. Our apartment building looks fine- definitely some roof damage though I don’t know the severity yet, and some sort of minor gas leak at the entry. There are things to be done.
We took a spontanious road trip with our neighbors to Lockhart TX which is about 150 miles west of the city of Houston, for some amazing barbque and a couple of nights stay at a hotel (oh the pleasures of electricity and water!). Seems to have been a great choice for us and we are definitely enjoying ourselves.
I am writing from the hotel, will have a better update once I return home later tomorow and am able to upload my many pictures. I’ve spoken to most of my friends and family and everyone seems to be okay which is grand. Most everyone reports that they are well, just bored. Better than not, I am glad they are well.
Talk to you soon, many new gorgeous fashion finds and stories to tell- its been quite the adventure!
xx, Bombshell Beauty
Not Looking So Pretty, Ike
September 12, 2008
Ick.iCK.IcK. So when I left Miami I am not so sure what I gained, lol. Oh well, at least I know the routine I suppose. I like where I am anyway.
Ike is huge, but at least it looks like it is moving quickly and will be over and done with fairly soon. Much water expected and *probably* no electricity for a bit. I’m prepared for it.
I remember Wilma in Miami (though we didn’t get any recognition- its okay, we know how to take care of ourselves). No power for over three weeks, lovely. Didn’t have gas either which meant cold showers for the most part.
The first day after the storm was fun- grilling steaks with the neighbors and neighboring restaurants, cool fresh weather, and an all around friendly attitude to help each other out. Great way to get things back in order.
It was the second week it started to get old, you know when you haven’t had any produce, meat, or other non perishable item in days and the battery charge of your laptop and other items have run out.
By no means do I feel light about it- its dangerous and causes severe destruction. But how you handle it can be controlled. The photo above was in my neighborhood in Miami; there was this large tree in front of our home that came crashing down and just missed our car. You cannot see it in this photo (all you would see is leaves and branches anyway) but you can definitely get the feel and see smaller trees that also fell. Our home was down the street and on the other side of the road from this photo. There were cars on top of cars, gas station roofs peeled back like food cans, and downtown was nothing but glass. I have a whole new respect for my building!
Well here we go again. I’ll let you know how this one goes. Much love and safety to those in Ike’s path.
Cookie, Cookie, Cookies
September 8, 2008
I love cookies, lol. I was out and about early this morning and decided to make a stop at my favorite French bakery in town, rightly titled French Gourmet Bakery. I remember coming here as a child with my parents to purchase fresh bread for delicious meals at home. So this place and I go back, I love it.
Me and cookies are very much like that episode of Family Guy where Stewie has a crush on the little brunette girl who’s line of notice throughout the show was “Cookie?” For then Stewie to find out she never liked him- it was only for the cookies. Mmmm, cookies, haha, that would be me, too.
My craving came from the other night- we were enjoying some wine with our neighbors when someone said cookie, and both she and I instantly start saying cookie and that we want a cookie.
Now I have them, and yum! Your classic chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin are pictured at the top- chewy and magical, simply perfect. This bakery can do no wrong, not once in all these years have I ever had a bad experience.
Following the classics, is another one in my heart- the thumb print cookie. Perfectly crumbly with the right amount of moistness that melts only when placed in your mouth, oh and the chocolate they use is ridiculous how great it is. My “I don’t like chocolate” friends fight for the last bit of it. Truly, a must have.
The last one is an iced ginger cookie with the little silver ball sprinkles. Simplicity goes far with this one, and all the spices are just right.
Normally I do like to bake my own cookies, but I have not done so in a while. Besides, this place for me is an extra special treat.
Here’s to the love of cookies. I dare you not to want one, now [ LOL ].
P.S. I just found out they now deliver online (their cookies at least, cakes are in store only). So if you are in for a treat take a look: http://www.fgbakery.com – much love!
I Never Thought I Would Do This Fashion Nightmare
September 4, 2008
Oooooh, yes- so much for never. It all happened accidentally, and it would almost have to.
Its one of those 80’s looks of the past that is so laughable- my fiance insisted I try on these ridiculous jeans so that we may laugh at them together. We couldn’t believe they had so many acid washed jeans on display- it was such a joke we had to partake. And the joke’s on me apparently.
I totally like them- I mean I actually like these jeans. I NEVER thought I would say or admit these words, but these are a cute pair of jeans- darn them. It wasn’t until I had them on that I came to this realization. And by no means am I going to look for more or encourage them to return- but this particular pair.. darn their cuteness.
Even the buttons at the bottom are kind of cute to me now. And I am not a jean person to begin with, but these fit me like a dream. I couldn’t pass them up.
Ugh, okay but on an actually current and happy to
indulge upon fashion note- another killer top from Richard Chai has been added to my wardrobe (with the jeans no less).
It has extra long sleeves and is slightly open in the front from the top and bottom- with a low neckline and a high center line. I like how it flows out but still feels comfortable and fitted. It allows for movement- both functional and for show, and it moves lovely.
The little buttons on the shoulder are a nice touch, too. Again with the detail, I am quite pleased.
Alright- I’ve admitted to taking pleasure in my fashion crime, and even brought something nice to make up for it. Think what you want but I love it. Maybe the top helped me pull it off- I don’t know but I’m doing it.
A Lovely Welcome In A Basket
September 4, 2008
What a lovely way to welcome someone, and this one came unexpectedly. It is time for us to renew our lease for our apartment (a simple chore if anything else) when afterwards we are given this lovely basket. If only every errand came with such a gift- I am impressed and happy to be where I am, a very good touch on their part.
They also make fresh baked cookies downstairs by the concierge- I love these guys. So friendly, too. The basket came with some yummy lemon iced biscotti, a freshly baked cookies scented candle, some ritter chocolates (a favorite of mine, yum) and a bottle of savignon blanc with a cute little bottle charm of grapes. Well done, and how lovely!
It makes me think though- when was the last time I did this.. too long ago. There’s something to be said about presenting a welcoming gift in a well thought package. Doesn’t take much, but the details go far. The last time I presented someone with a basket was quite some time ago- its just so easy to present someone with a bottle of wine. I like the charm on the bottle, it really dresses it up and is quite simple to do. Its the details that stand out.
