The Stylist Perspective: Guest Blogger Clemente Javier On Kerastase
July 28, 2009
Guest Blogger and renowned Hair-Stylist, Clemente Javier, gives us the inside-scoop perspective on what we can do for pretty, fabulous, and gorgeous hair.
He is my personal stylist- I credit him with the condition of my hair, keeping it long and healthy with a beautiful shine. I asked Clemente what the best option would be to survive the humidity, lose the frizz, and not sacrifice the texture of our hair. As always, he has the answer and this is a refreshing one!
Clemente Javier:
I’m generally not a big fan of hairspray, especially on longer hair. Shorter hair sometimes requires the shape to be set and held into place, sometimes. But on longer hair I believe the hair should be movable, touchable, and feel soft.
The problem is hairspray is often necessary, as in more humid climates where my arch nemesis humidity haunts all hair types. It threatens any blowout, taunts straight hair, and down right mocks curly tresses.
“FRIZZ!” I scream waking up in a panic, its a nightmare. I’m not a fan of hairsprays, because I’m not a fan of stiff untouchable hair, but I despise frizzy hair.
Luckily Kerastase makes a spray that cares: Double Force Controle Ultime. This is a wonderful product. Double Force is actually a protective spray, with its UV filter and Ceramide, as well a unique control spray. I say it’s unique because of the way that it does the job of controlling frizz and maintaining shape while not making your hair stiff or robbing your hair of its touchable soft feel.
Just as important to acknowledge is the protective benefits I mentioned. The UV filter technology protects your hair from sun damage, a very important step in maintaining beautiful hair.
While ceramide is a synthetic version of a chemical by the same name naturally produced by your hair follicle to maintain the hair structure. When the hair shaft becomes damaged this is lost, synthetic Ceramide replaces the lost natural Ceramide .
A genius product made by an amazing company. So, if you too are not a fan of hair spray or you just want to love your hair the way it deserves to be loved find your local Kerastase salon and pick up a can of Double Force Controle Ultime.
To discover more about Clemente Javier, visit his site http://www.ClementeJavier.com
A Black Fitted Jacket With A Sexy Look
July 26, 2009
I’m having an editorial fashion mood today, and the inspiration comes from a new piece in my wardrobe. It reminds me of a style of jacket that I have been seeking out for some time now- if you will remember my post on the Armani 09 Single Button Jacket, it is still on my wishlist.
But in the meantime I have a beautiful inspiration, this is a jacket from “Black Queen” which can be found from yesstyle.com. It comes in various colors- black, white, blue, and a light green, but I felt I had to go with the classic black.
This one buttoned jacket is a beautiful design- nice lines and a great silhouette, modern but very chic and classic. I think it’s just on the line of edgy and runway-like on its own, though I’ll probably explore either a white, nude, or black tank top underneath it for practical purposes. A collar shirt (maybe white, blue or even silver) could really bring a new level to this piece as well. Great design though, I’m really loving the possibilities with this one!
I have an old vintage green pencil skirt that is the same shade as the green jacket they offer from this same line, so I am tempted to order another for that outfit alone. I think it would look gorgeous together. I went with the black just because I can get more use out of it- with shorts, a skirt, or even jeans it will look fabulous.
Now, I was in an edgy mood this morning so I decided to have fun with my make up and brought out my turquoise eyeliner. When I wear all black I am usually tempted to add a color somewhere in my look to make it really pop out, whether it be my nails, lipstick, shoes, or eyeshadow. In this case, it was the eyes.
I am having fun with the look today. Normally when I do my eyes in this fashion, it is with a copper liquid eyeliner which gives it that metallic look. I haven’t been able to find any lately so I went with the color I had on hand, turquoise. No complaints though, it gives it a beautiful rich color that feeds nicely with the black.
I think this jacket and I are going to have some great and unique looks in our future- definitely looking forward to it! xx
Fabulous, Elegant, & Twisted Into A Knot: Necklace
July 23, 2009
I love a unique accessory, and this one takes the cake. My best friend returned from Italy with this insane gem as a gift for me- wow do I ever love it. It’s been a favorite toy of mine for some time now and I wanted to share it with you!
Seriously- if you come across one let me know because I would love a collection of these, they’re just too much fun. Speak with you soon- enjoy the video.
xx
Bombshell Kitten
Shoes Don’t Need A Name Or Price To Be Glamorous
July 22, 2009
Oh, shoes- can there ever be such a thing as too many? I’ve made it my own personal challenge to find out, and so far all is looking pretty fabulous. One of my favorite treats is discovering boutique items for a minimum price. Don’t get me wrong, I love a pair of Louboutin shoes and get excited each time I see a glimpse of their gorgeous red bottoms, but there is something to also be appreciated in the glamorous “finds”. This shoe is just one such case:
I found these glamorous shoes at a boutique shop near my old home in Miami Beach. It has been several years since the purchase, but you’d nevr know it looking at the shoes. They have survived with me well and continue to impress me. The structure is beautiful and a very comfortable fit. The glamor speaks for itself- stunning.
I’ll be the first to admit I adore a sparkling object, and am in heaven when surrounded by them. The way the crystals hang in unique patterns with pretty colorful designs feels rich and luxurious. These shoes are from “Michael Antonio” a shoe designer I had never heard of until I came across this boutique shop that carried them. All of their shoes have that “wow factor” design and even more so with the price. I love it.
Do a search for Michael Antonio and you’ll see all the collections have that unique feel and a very welcoming price for the fanatic shoe shopper, you can indulge pretty comfortably here.
I bought this pair at first with the clubbing shoe mentality- inexpensive enough to not worry about and easy to replace, but still freaking adorable. They have surprised me though and lasted longer than many of my other shoes.
The pink and silver design gives it a feminine feel that is easy to match and dress up any outfit with a unique flair. The mesh still feels elegant the way it is handled on the shoe, and the crystals keep it interesting. Easily shoes you could stare out while you hold your drink at the bar, they’re pretty and they know it, lol.
But it just goes to show that glamor doesn’t need to be a certain name or certain price to be stunning, there is room in this world for a mix of it all. Keep it pretty and keep it fabulous!
Video: A Cute And Glamorous Look For A Night Of Events
July 18, 2009
This week has been very eventful, from seeing my family to meeting great new friends and even to being invited to some spectacular opportunities- but more on that last one later!
There were two cigar events scheduled yesterday, and this video is from right before I left to attend them. The first event was so great-ran into unexpected friends and it turned out to be an evening to remember. I didn’t make it to the second event, but instead chose to have dinner with these incredibly great people.
Dinner and delicious wines I might say- an evening of cigars followed by fois gras, boudin noir, cheese, venison in blackberry sauce, sweetbreads, and poached pears, not to mention the great conversation. This is my ideal kind of night!
And so I like to dress for such occasions, even before they happen. I am always ready for anything and keep that attitude in mind. I was feeling a pink, black, and pearl theme in my wardrobe and ended up with a pretty unique and feminine look. Hope you enjoy- speak with you soon!
The “After The Pool” Hair Look
July 12, 2009
It was a hot summer day and I was fortunate enough to spend it in the pool with my family yesterday. When you have as much hair as I do, it can sometimes feel like a fur coat- gorgeous but very warm. So I opted to have my hair in two braids to keep cool from the heat.
It is a rare occasion that I actually get in the pool, normally I am like a cat and like to observe while soaking in the sun. Oh, I might let a foot in just for curiosity- but not too much further than that. But it was hot and the water was calling, so I went in.
And of course this means my hair would be soaked. Humidity is enough to add curls to my hair but add water and it becomes extreme as you can see here, lol.
I get massive curls- sometimes in my favor sometimes just out of control. This time wasn’t too bad and I am actually enjoying the look. I may have to do this again, just braid my hair- soak it in water and let dry after a decent towel drying.
I have a lot of hair so natural drying for me means hours, which isn’t always a fun thing. But when you are relaxing and spending time with family time moves so quickly and before you know it- hair is dry and filled with curls, ha.
I ended up changing my outfit afterward (having damp hair isn’t the best thing for your dress, either!) and took some more pictures. The curls are really holding up on their own. This is a look I may have to incorporate more often.
IZZE, A Nom Treat!
July 11, 2009
Izze is one of my favorite refreshing treats, and yet the first time I noticed the name and brightly colored box I had always avoided it thinking it to be one of the many energy drinks. After all, the can size matches them and even with its bright colors it blends in with the others.
But then one day the word “clementine” caught my eye and I decided to explore it further. Looking at the ingredients, I was pleasantly surprised and had to give it a try- I love it! It is so refreshing and absolutely delicious.
Simply fruit juices and sparkling water, no preservatives or other nonsense. Not to mention it is the perfect size- not too much, just a great taste. It is great for those cravings, too- I like the bubbles of a soda but not so much the syrup taste or texture, it bothers me after a while. But with this- no worries, it is just a crisp clean flavor. nom!
I’ve tried as many as I can get my hands on- when I find something I love I want to try them all. So far the clementine and grapefruit ones are my favorite, though the lime izze in the glass bottle is also very heavenly. I love that natural tartness.
I’m starting to see IZZE show up in more places now which is great, I’ve been having to hunt for them on my own for a while now. I am always determined to have some in the house.
On another note- I bet it would taste GREAT mixed for a cocktail, especially the sparkling grapefruit. Will be trying that sometime soon, too! This could definitely lead to some refreshing cocktails. Yummy.
Shoes From Philosophy: A Nature Theme
July 8, 2009
I love a shoe with a theme, one that’s playful but not obnoxious. These are some of my favorite shoes to this day, I have had them for years and my fascination with them has yet to go away. They are elegant and dazzling, not to mention inspiring!
They are Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti high heels. I couldn’t begin to tell you their exact age, but I do know I have had them for years. I keep them with great care, in their bag, nice and protected until their next appearance. These shoes liven up any outfit and look so adorable with a spring dress. I am thinking my Adela Smocked dress will be just the perfect match with these.
The details go very far in this pair- the stitching of the leaves, the color of the vine and how long it wraps- finished off by another leaf at each end. A gorgeous flower decorates one side of each shoe for a soft and feminine look. It’s almost like a fairy tale.
These are the shoes I bring out whenever I want to make it an extra cheery day or to celebrate a very special occasion (even if it is one I make up just for the shoes). They are such a unique pair.
I constantly seek shoes of this style- “insane” without over doing any one theme or design. It works together completely. At most, I’ll occasionally wear my pink nail polish that matches the shoe exactly! It looks darling in the spring time. But in the other months, like summer- I’ll wear a darker color to contrast and give it a bit more attitude.
Oh, shoes, I heart you!
Eyes That Sparkle, A “ShowStoppers”Preview
July 5, 2009
Sparkle, sparkle- I’ll admit it, if it has a certain shine to it there is a good chance I’ll buy it. I’m not ashamed of my love with pretty sparkly things- it’s part of the appeal of diamonds after all, isn’t it? And might I add, with a name like “SHOWSTOPPERS” this had to be mine!
It’s the sparkle that first caught my attention while I was shopping, in Target naturally. Sonia Kashuk already made my follow list with her coral brush set I featured some time ago, in two parts. Because of this I tend to keep on eye on what she has to bring out next.
My last two purchases from her are pictured above, the “Razzle Dazzle -22″ which you can just see beneath the glittering set above, it’s nice and simple and great for blending- very subtle and not the interesting focus of this post. The second item I purchased is though- the “showstoppers-01″ eyeshadow from Sonia Kashuk. Just look at that glimmer, makes my eyes get wide with excitement!
I wanted to share it with you first! I’m still just playing with what it can do. So far I’ve kept it very subtle, I like the quiet hint of shine that glimmers when the light hits you just right. I think it is memorizing.
From what I can tell so far, the black shade actually does apply very dark, which is nice for smokey eyes. The brown is not as obvious, it is in the medium range when it come to hue and definitely on the more subtle side with the first application. I find that the top two colors, the champagne and white shades, can be applied very lightly with just the slightest hint of color. Though if you wanted to, a heavier application does present a more obvious hue. I am still playing with it so I will update more as I experiment.
I don’t know that the camera captures the shimmer as well as natural movement and sunlight would, but that will have to be part of the further experimentation! In the mean time, if you want to play on your own you can find this eye shadow at Target. Yes, dresses, accessories, make up… they’ve got it all it seems!
I Heart Target’s GO International Collection: Gorgeous New Dress!
July 2, 2009
Target continues to give me more reasons to keep visiting, and the fact that my style can grow without spending a fortune is a lovely treat. Many of their new styles look so rich and elegant you would never imagine the tag attached to them, and it doesn’t matter. As long as you look and feel pretty and fabulous then that is all that matters.
I discovered this dress the other day and wow, what a find. I’ll be posting some pictures up here too so you can see the detail-(my camera died on me! Must wait for it to charge) but in the meantime I was able to put up a video so you can get a feel of this glamorous dress!
The material feels like heaven, so light and silky, and moves beautifully with every step. This is something I look for in my clothes. Design plays a lot into how a dress will fit, look, move, and feel. And this one performs beautifully.
Enjoy the video for now, I’ll see if I can update with photos later 
