Volume In Control: A Must Fashion Accessory
August 27, 2009
I love volume, and there is definitely a certain balance to be maintained in order for it to work wonders. There are also many options to be explored, and all of them have to do with playing around with the silhouette.
Dresses are a particular favorite of mine, and those cozy, voluminous, short ones that have been in style are a dream. Nothing like looking fabulous while being comfortable, some of them feel like silk or even as cozy as a blanket. My latest favorite, from STAR.MIMI, feels like silk against the skin. It is soft, delicate, and moves so elegantly. On it’s own, it has a good amount of volume that is in good balance because of the length (pictured above).
But what about those options? Volume is put into control with this must fashion accessory: the cinched waist belt.
Oh, the cinched waist belt, how I heart the many styles you give me. It is simple, yet can drastically change the silhouette and feel of a style. It is also my little cheat into being able to wear those cute tops and dresses that may be otherwise sold out in my size. The belt allows me to make it work- so brilliant.
I also love belts that come with an outfit- and then taking that belt to mix and match with the rest of my wardrobe. Ribbons make a great belt alternative as well. I don’t like letting good packaging go to waste!
A collection of belts leaves lots of room for creativity. And vintage belts are a thing of beauty. A simple top or dress gets a whole new personality in an instant. (Some belts.. especially the chain-like ones… depending on their weight, can also make crazy-awesome necklaces or chokers. Just a thought!)
I love the mix in fabrics on this dress- from incredibly soft cloth to a gorgeous silky shine. Fabulous. Both the STAR.MIMI dress and With Mocha heels are from yesstyle.com, I’m hooked on their products. Beautiful one-of-a-kind fashion that always keeps me in my style. And they have something for every personality and feel.
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
Nailene Gives Nails A New Look And Style
June 30, 2009
Having lovely nails is a necessity at all times- whether we are wearing nail polish or not. I know I prefer to have no nail polish over chipped nail polish at any time. Bad nails will ruin any fabulous look in an instant.
I am very grateful to have now discovered Nailene- not only are their products inexpensive but they are for the fashionista on the go. With fabulous press-on nails in beautiful designs, they also have many options for adding your own personal style into the mix. Like for instance, my new favorite toy:
This is the “French Tip Pen” and it comes in two colors- black or white. The beauty of this is how it makes applying a smooth line simple and quick. But do be aware that like anything else it takes some practice with your non dominant hand since it does act like a pen. I know I’ve gotten so used to a brush it took me a moment- but honestly by the second nail I forgot all about it and fell in love once again.
You could actually fill in the entire nail, too, if you wanted. I am going to explore the options available with this incredible tool- polka dots, little designs, stripes- oh so much to explore! A brush cannot give you that kind of flexibility or control. It applies smoothly with no glopping- just clean and beautiful.
Another luxury I have found out about this pen throughout the week is that as my nails do begin to chip, touching up takes seconds! It mixes in flawlessly and I can just fill in to missing pieces without anyone being the wiser. Love it.
If control is an issue for you they also offer these stickers you can put in place to provide a clean line. Just put them into place, swipe away with this nail polish pen- and you have a gorgeous look waiting for you.
The strips are great if you need them, though honestly I like to freehand it as I feel pretty comfortable and in control. It is especially nice, however, when you are in a hurry and don’t want to worry about it. There’s no excuse for bad nails, even on the rush.
I think I may use the stickers for playing with designs- placing them one over the other or next to each other for strips and zig zags. I’ll show you as I experiment and see what comes up.
They have so many fun options to play with, whether you are in a hurry or you have the time to really dress your nails up. I’ve been playing with some of their stickers they also offer- everything from little gems to pretty designs- just place them on the nail, layer a clear coat to keep it clean and in place, and you are done. I’ll give you a sneak peak at some of what I’ve done so far- but much more is to come soon.
Speak with you soon- if you start experimenting with your own ideas be sure to share them, I would love to see them!
Killer Gladiator High Heeled Sandals
June 19, 2009
How much do these shoes rock? Seriously! These are some killer haute heels and they just arrived for me to play with- ha ha, and I am having some fun.
The black straps are gorgeous and leave a bold impression on any style or look. With that bright red giving subtle flashes in each step, the look is even more glamorous.
These stunning heels are from “With Mocha” and called High Top Strap Sandals which are found on yesstyle.com. This was my first shoe purchase with them and I must say I am very pleased! The shoe chart was very accurate, so there were no worries there at all (phew)! It would have broken my heart otherwise. But look at these heels:
I love them! They are just stunning- I am looking forward to wearing them out tonight for an event. Definitely will make it a grand occasion.
I had them sent to my shoe person, which is something I do with all my heels that I know I will be wearing often. I add some padding to protect the shoe on the bottom and heel so they will last longer (after too many times of wishing I bought two of the same shoe because I loved it so much, this is my next best option to keep them in perfect condition).
I find it adds a lot of comfort and stability to a shoe as well. Now that these heels are ready and in hand- I am off to play!
A New Kind Of Twist
May 23, 2009
If you enjoyed the different kind of updo from the previous post, you’re going to love this new variation. It uses the same technique revealed in the Grand Collection, taken to a whole other level.
The beauty of this variation, too, is that it works with various lengths of hair. It can look sooo cute with short hair, giving it anywhere from a spunky look to an elegant and chic graceful one. It is all on how you want to play it.
I have long hair, so I let it all just melt together. I think I would add more curls to give it extra body and texture the next time I do this- but it works well with the subtle waves just as well.
For those signed up for The Pretty Society Exclusive Newsletter, you are going to love how simple and quick this look is to do. I’ll be illustrating the step by step instructions on both variations- this one above and the updo from the previous post. I’m loving how elegant and easy these looks are to construct.
And with the variations, there’s room to add your own personality and unique creative touch into the mix- make it your own and rock this look!
Elegance and glamor don’t have to be complicated or time consuming- it is the simple details we do for ourselves that shine the brightest and make a difference.
Style- Oh, Yes!
April 22, 2009
What are your styleobsessions? You’ve seen quite a few of my own inspirations and I love to keep my collections growing. Everything from unique and creative dresses and accessories to beautiful shoes- you name it! We all love our style companions, especially discovering the items that meet the best of our personalities.
It is with that in mind that I am incredibly excited and honored to announce the Pretty and Fabulous sponsorship from YesStyle!
They are my latest obsession, and with great and fabulous reason; there is something for everyone and for all of my moods and attitudes. For the times I am feeling old hollywood glamor to the times I am feeling like I am five again, they have the style that meets my needs. Not to mention a pretty and fabulous price, very affordable with items ranging from around $20 up to the bigger designers. I love it and cannot wait for you to take a look and see for yourself. I want to know what you like the most.
The Accessories section is like a candy store- sometimes very literally! With designer brands like “Fit-To-Kill” and “FairyTales” it is like a fashion wonderland! Even the names are spectacular.
Because they have so many styles available, this is also a great place for getting gifts for that finicky fashinista- they are bound to have something clever that caters to their individual personality. I already have things in mind for some of my friends that I know they are going to love and be the envy at every party they attend!
Here are some looks I am loving right now, one from Dodostyle and another adorable dress from Spring Girl, I think they are perfect for spring’s feminine image.
Sophisticated classy dresses, girly frilly looks, even casual wear with sweaters and jeans- there is a look for you and this is why I love it so much and am presenting it to you!
This is how much creative they can be- and since I am a sucker for an adorable charm bracelet, let alone candy influenced designs, check this one out:
Sooo adorable, ha- very fun and girlie. You will do best to take a look through their styles and see what you love best, you will be amazed at all they have, I have such a list compiled already!
They have designer items too, and I will leave you with the one that is on my wishlist, I am seriously obsessed with this jacket… I may even drool… and admit to it! How gorgeous is this? Ah, go look and comment back to me! Much love!
Pommard, A Love Of Luxurious French Wines
April 13, 2009
I love wine, and as the evening arrives and all is calm and quiet- I love nothing more than to relax with a glass of Burgundy. Even when we have some guests over for conversation, a bottle of luxurious wine is always present- it makes us warm and happy.
I love all styles of wines, but burgundy- or pinot noir, is my personal favorite.
So I thought this evening I would share with you what I am drinking, and be forewarned, this is certainly an earthy, full, and rich red wine.
It is a 2005, and comes from the appellation of Pommard, France- where only red wines are allowed to be produced. The wines are known for their full bodied tannic quality, and because of it do well with aging. I admit I am opening this one early (five is generally a minimum with this one, and as many as fifteen or more does very well to soften the tannins and bring out the complexity of the fruit flavors and dimensions).
I used one of my fun little wine tools to speed up the breathing process as well as letting it rest, and I must say it was still quite the treat! Definitely holds well with food- something rich and meaty like a filet, especially something gamey like venison or elk. Nom!
Very rich of red fruit- black cherry, black currant, and plum. Love it. Without the Wine Aerator Tool I have it would come across more bitter, which is why it will do better with time. This is certainly something I would purchase again (and let rest for a future celebration or gathering).
Cheers, loves!
Where Some People See A Top, I See A Dress
March 24, 2009
Someone once said to me, that where others see a cute top- I see a very cute dress. And I have found this to be very true, indeed! I love dresses, and love the challenge of making anything and everything into a dress in one form or another.
Pants have never been comfortable to me and never attracted me, they are wonderful and have their place but just have not been a match for me, personally. I feel my best in a dress or skirt- and so I go with what I love most.
When I came across this *adorable* top, at a glance I thought it was a dress. It looks and feels like a dress, with its soft layers that just flow so beautifully. But upon picking it up and trying it on- it became very apparent that this was not a dress, the tiniest bit of extra length would be required. There wasn’t anything at the shop to match it with either, but I had to have it. I loved it too much to let it go, just felt so right.
The design is elegant and feels so delicate and soft- and then it has the playful child-like attitude with the fun little patches designed with an obvious stitching pattern, love it! So unique and one-of-a-kind.
Upon returning home, I realized I did have a light blue skirt that may do the trick (be it a slightly different shade than the top, but something close enough that could possibly blend). Light blue is a color I adore wearing, and have the shoes and other accessories to mix and match with ease. All I needed for this top to turn it into a dress was an extra layer or two, and this skirt would have to be the missing piece to the puzzle.
It looks like a cup cake layered in frosting- such a lovely mix of styles and character. This is one of my favorite outfits, I *absolutely* love this style. And there are so many ways to wear it for all occasions- the accessories give it a new charm each and every time. No matter where I go, I feel fabulous in it.
I also *absolutely* love the necklace I am wearing with it too, a very special one-of-a-kind piece… but more on that later! You’ll have to wait to discover the details on that one ;D It is definitely very fabulous.
Another Reason To Love Armani In 09
March 6, 2009
Sophisticated, sultry, and elegant- Armani’s name carries a certain grace I have always adored. And no matter the design, the fabric is always heavenly against the skin and fitted wonderfully.
I am always anxious to see the new designs, and leading London’s personal stylist, Gabrielle Teare, never disappoints to keep me informed on the latest. I am delighted to have these images from her as well.
Now, normally I am not a particular fan of women’s business coats or jackets. Something about them can be so ill-fitted and unflattering to a women’s body. They generally strike me as rigid and uncomfortable. But this jacket with its one well placed button and sharp low drop neckline intrigues me and even has me wanting one for myself.
I love how it hugs the figure while still being just lose enough with a flow in movement. It is all about the lines, and when you pair up a matching hat, handbag, and gloves the look is simply heavenly!
Personally, I would wear the jacket with a well formed pencil skirt- I think it would flow so nicely and keep to the feminine form. But the colors here are fabulous.
Who doesn’t love an outfit that just melts with sparkles? Again, Armani has me rethinking looks I normally wouldn’t care for myself. Those who know me know that I am always in a dress in heels- quite seriously always. But, this look seems like fabulous fun. It works, and works well. The hint of nude kept elegant and the insanely detailed and gorgeous collar that melts into the ensemble quite literaly is stunning. The lines and flow of movement is beautiful. Definitely would make for a grand cocktail party, gloves included naturally.
So, wow- two looks with generally a masculine feel still keeps its femininity. I love that. It is playfully modern with a bit of that old glamour feel at the same time. I am inspired and definitely have some ideas running through my mind.
Falling For Winter’s Charm
March 2, 2009
Lately the weather has been showing some personality- one day it is 85 degrees and then the next it is 50 degrees. And while the sun is still out and keeping things lovely- the chill of the breeze is not something to ignore, especially when it drops another ten or fifteen degrees in the evening. Lovely.
But with this cool winter breeze I cannot help but fall for its charm and many possibilities of winter accessories. It isn’t too often that I am able to wear them, so I am excited for each chance I do get.
It was the first day of this unexpected cool front and the most notable part is the wind. Normally I would seek comfort in the hood of my cozy fur lined coat- but I thought to do something different this time! Something fun and fabulous.
And so I went for a hat, my charming little beret that I rarely have occasions to wear. I bought it from Miss Sixty some time ago and have been waiting for the chance to wear it- it is so adorable.
I have a grand collection of hats- I adore them, but most of them are designed for the spring months and do little for the cool breeze. The few I do have which are designed for winter are made of fur and are a bit over the top for this slightly cool weather. This beret makes for the perfect balance in wonderful style.
Cozy, charming, and an absolute joy to wear- I cannot help but smile while wearing this fashionable hat. I am taking this cool front with lots of style and fun. I don’t know how long it will last, but my scarves and tights are enjoying the occasion while it does!
Bombshell Shoes Of Beauty
February 24, 2009
Because who doesn’t love shoes? They’re fabulous and you know it, with so many styles, looks, and feels they are an endless joy to play with.
And play with them I will- it is one of my all time favorite things to do: relax at home with a cocktail while wearing a fabulous pair of shoes!
Sometimes I like to kick back and lounge around the house- my feet up dressed in some especially beautiful shoe and a cocktail in hand. Occasionally I will watch a movie or even paint my nails- but a cocktail and shoes are two loves that are just meant to be together.
And so with this in mind, a particular pair in my closet stood out to me last night- these bombshell beauties. A gorgeous unique heel, fabulous and sultry silhouette, polka dots (how adorable), a peek-a-boo toe and - yes, even a little cocktail garnish of its own!
Now, every time I wear these shoes it brings up a certain discussion- just what is that little decoration anyway? Personally, when I first saw them I thought them to be cherries. But then others came in protest, calling them peaches, apples, and even pineapples (really?). Whatever they are I think they are darling, and love the placement of them, too. But tell me, what do you think they are?
I am curious to know 
Oh, but I do love these shoes- they are so much fun and really play up an outfit. Definitely a perfect cocktail shoe! They are from Zinc, and when I first discovered them, I also found out that the same shaped shoe comes in many many patterns and textures- from cloth prints, to denim, to leather.
I just about had a fit and purchased each one I could find in my size- only ending up with two pairs, the ones you see pictured here and then another in a nude leather with a strap that wraps across the top of the foot instead of around the ankle (also absolutely adorable!). I have had them for years but they still have that same charm as the day I found them.
I love shoes!
An Award To The Fabulous!
February 21, 2009
Something I greatly believe in is making each day an occasion and making all occasions fabulous ones. When an opportunity of the fabulous is presented to me, I am delighted to indulge and pass the luxury to those who mean the world to me.
I am incredibly honored to be presented with the award, “Your Blog is Fabulous” from an incredibly fabulous lady herself, Roxy of For The Love Of Beauty - a fascinating blog I have been following now for some time as well. She is such a delight to read and I am very grateful to have her as one of my fabulous followers!
What a marvelous award and inspiration to celebrate!
It is with great honor and appreciation that I am able to present this award to these notably fabulous blogs that I adore and follow. And though two are technically not fashion only blogs, they still hold the high ranking of being fabulous. It is difficult to select so few, however these gems stand high on my list.
Once presented with this award, I encourage you to participate in the rules of this prestigious award:
1. Place this lovely logo as a badge of honor on your blog or within a post.
2. Nominate ten blogs which you find to be fabulous.
3. Be sure to link your nominees within your post
4. Let them know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
5. share the love and link this post and to the person from whom you received the award.
This is fabulous and fun, and it is always a pleasure to give to those who have given you so much.
