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.
A Vest On A Vest- Why Not?
May 20, 2009
In a random styling moment- I ended up wearing a vest on top of another vest. Why not- seemed like a brilliant idea at the time. And with the second vest being such a peculiar one as it is, I think the look works just fine. Definitely something interesting and different.
I’ve worn the blue BCBG vest before and posted on it in the past, but a few weeks ago I had purchased a long black vest that is semi see-through. It is almost a vest-dress really, it is long and has pockets at the side. But, it is still a vest in the top portion design- meaning awkward to wear by itself as it needed some sort of layer beneath it to make it work.
The black vest stops where the picture ends- which makes for an adorable dress- but again, it needs something underneath in order to not be too revealing. So while playing in my closet, I tried it with another vest.
Oh yeah, I also started playing around with my accessories I had forgotten about! Not necessarily for the outfit, but just for play. This was a necklace and earings set that I had dubbed the “rice krispies” accessories- the material is so soft and has a distinct food-like sense about it, I don’t know what it is made of but it is yummy looking.
(And Vanessa, if you’re reading this you’ll remember where they came from maybe! I had nearly forgotten until I recognized the bag it came in, random and unexpected shopping-oh the memories).
Anyway, some random styling but pretty fun in the end- I think I will repeat this look again. It is comfortable and different feel. Plus it is a lovely instance where black and navy look so lovely together.
Child’s Play In Mirrored Elegance
May 6, 2009
When was the last time you played with a rocking horse of your very own? Maybe its been too long… fortunately now there is an elegant and fashionable alternative!
From YesStyle, one of the designer brands offered is Sweet & Co♥. With adorable and creative designs, some child-like and colorful, others subtle and elegant- the opportunities are playful and beautiful.
My latest purchase is this absolutely adorable rocking horse ring! It is mirrored and just the right size to make it noticeable but not overbearing. It has a delicate and feminine look that speaks memories of childhood now all grown up.
I like the idea of wearing this playful and youthful ring with a cocktail dress when going out with the girls- how much will this dazzle in the dim lights looking gorgeous against my cocktail or wine.
I love that subtle shine that bursts with the right light- and this ring will do it gracefully.
And the packaging is perfect, also- it comes in an pretty pink little pouch enclosed within an adorable pink envelope- ready to be received as a gift. I think my kitty, Aveline, thought so too- right when I opened the package she went for the pink envelope first!
Adorable, isn’t it? And as you can see there were other items I had purchased as well- but shhh, those are to be revealed soon! Enjoy your sneak peak, for now I’ll be playing with this marvelous new ring!
1920′s Vintage Wedding Dress Find
May 5, 2009
Here it is, finally- my 1920′s wedding dress discovery! And did I mention the price tag on this little gem- I couldn’t even believe it when I heard it.
We were visiting our great friends in Seattle, having an amazing weekend, when us girls decided to go shopping out on Whidbey Island while the boys stayed home and went over some business. The last time we were here, we discovered a beautiful little antique shop where I found these gorgeous jewelry sets for an amazing price as well. Back to this visit though-
Of all the amazing items I found on this visit and have shared with you, this one is exceptional. We all admired this delicate wedding dress sitting gracefully on in the window, dreaming and not daring to consider the price. It looked so elegant with such a story to tell. The tag on it was resting at the top very high, and we could only just slightly see the number three written on it. If that was the start of the price or the item number, we couldn’t tell. As we were leaving we casually asked the attendant the price of the dress, to which he answered $39.99.
I didn’t know what to do at first, honestly. My mind was wowed.
So after a little walking and thinking I decided to at least give the dress a try on while my mind continued to absorb the concept.
This dress fit me in every way possible- you could even see how delicately it had been altered for a custom fit. The buttons are small metal ones (which I left unbuttoned for these photos as they are difficult to close by yourself, with assistance it is a simple task though) and some eye hooks.
Even the clasp at the end of the sleeves fit me perfectly. This was incredible, how unusual to find a dress of this style and condition, at this price, and fit like a custom made dress.
Incredible. The dress is beautiful as it is and definitely a look of the 1920′s- I am planning on giving it a modern twist that will remain classic and elegant. The sleeves will be going- they are a bit much for me. I think some antique lace continued just over the shoulder would make a very sleek and elegant look.
The front, too can be altered a bit- removing some of the rosettes and bringing the line a bit lower, this will be something I will have to play and experiment with. Over all I don’t want to do too much to this dress, but I think some simple well thought alterations and touches will blend some modern elegance into the feel (and make it my own).
The back is gorgeous, too- with a very long and graceful train.
With a little cleaning, pressing, and alterations this dress will have a complete turn around. I am very much looking forward to it! A slip will also need to be created with antique lace at the bottom so that heels can be worn with the dress. Little things!
Oh, it also came with a veil, the headband can be used but the material will have to be replaced as it is old and tattered. I may eliminate it completely, I haven’t quite decided yet- opinions? It may be a bit much!
So here you are- the original before photo shots of my $40 wedding dress find, I still don’t know what I think of this amazing find- or that it is real. But here it is!
Feminine Soft Curls and A Big Red Bow
April 21, 2009
So I woke up this morning feeling especially girlie and feminine, it is such a beautiful day outside perhaps it is the sunshine coming in that is inspiring me. Looking into my closet I knew exactly what I wanted to wear- a white frilly dress, and my hair in soft curls with a bright red ribbon.
I have my curls very subtle, I like them that way with this type of look. They become more noticeable in the wind or when I walk- and I like that. With my dress being very simple and white, I wanted to add a bold color into the mix and thought the red ribbon was just the thing, and still keeps true to the girlie theme I am playing with here.
I also added a little bit of a puff to the pony tail portion of this look, I rarely wear my hair half up and half down, but when I do I like the subtle puff since otherwise it can feel to flat on top. I find it keeps a beautiful balance as it transitions into the curls or waves below.
And the dress- I love a simple yet frilly dress. Love it. If it makes me want to twirl when I am wearing it then I instantly want it. It’s the child in me, and I like to keep it happy (only child, naturally).
I found this dress some time ago I believe at forever twenty one, I haven’t worn it yet this year so I am delighted to be playing in it now.
Oh, did I mention it has the most adorable pockets on the sides? What makes me love this dress in particular is that the uneven hem is longer on the sides rather than the front and back. It is just slightly different and makes it all the more unique and wonderful.
It also has a very vintage look and feel about it, as if it once belonged to an old doll or was hand made from mom.
Even the pockets are larger than normal, giving that feeling of being a child and wanting to fill them with candy! This is certainly a fun one.
A Chic And Coral Hidden Treasure
April 19, 2009
Hidden treasure never looked so fabulous- and for something as common as this, I love when a designer has fun and adds a bit of luxury into the most simple items we use. Suddenly getting ready in the morning has a much more glamorous feel, and I know I am excited to be using these lovelies.
And possibly the best part, beyond their gorgeous appearance and feel, is the price and location of these gems… Target! They are only 19.99, and are a limited edition so be sure to pick them up while you can. This is an incredible deal for brushes of any kind, let alone fabulously designed ones such as these. It is definitely a steal I had to act quickly on myself, and wanted you to be aware of them as well.
The collection comes from Sonia Kashuk and is called the “hidden treasure” limited edition brush set, the name is perfect. It includes six beautiful brushes and a travel case to match. All the brushes are very soft against the face and very nice, especially for the price. Love it!
Playing with my make up in the morning has a whole new look and feel; fabulous brushes? Can’t go wrong there, a beautiful and stylish move from Sonia Kashuk for Target.
Oh Violet, Maternity- Really? Really??
April 15, 2009
I do love the color violet, and with my nails still in that gorgeous shade- maybe this dress and I were meant to be. I certainly was not expecting to discover it in this section! Maternity? Really? Yes, srlsy!
I’ll admit to occasionally finding a fun accessory or garment within the children’s section- they have some fashionable items these days; but when I was in Target and this dress caught my eye, I was all turned around. It was in the maternity section, and was intended for that in the design.
But it’s so cute! and has pockets and a bow, I had to try it on. And it is so adorable- soft as can be and comfortable (as would hopefully be expected), that it was a quick decision to buy it.
Also, it made me think of the times my old roommate, Savina, and I would shock the world with our eating abilities… and wear a comfortable empire waist dress for ease. As she would say, “you can eat whatever you want in this dress.” lol.
In all honesty I think this is an adorable dress and I am enjoying it now, just the way it is. No, I’m not pregnant- but it’s nice to know the style is out there. I’ll still enjoy it now regardless.
The stockings were a fun purchase and something I haven’t worn in a while- so I thought since I was already going out wearing maternity clothes, why not play for a day with the socks?
Someone I once worked with years ago had requested I bring these socks into style.. I don’t know that I would, or that I am going to continue to wear them by any means- but once in a while it certainly is fun! I am enjoying myself today- that’s for sure.
PS As I was walking out the door I grabbed some accessories to wear, don’t you just love it when things match? My favorite LOVEMADDS braclet was the perfect item to complete the look!
Bunny Ears, A Different Kind Of Hairstyle
April 12, 2009
Bunnies have been on my mind, especially with all the chocolate and marshmallow ones dancing around; we even had a visit from the Easter Bunny at our community event (and yes- we did take a photo, you may have to check my twitter @teresakitten to see it- this one will be a twitpic exclusive I think). But with bunnies everywhere, why not a hairstyle, too? This one is adorable and fun quite well on its own!
It has a clean silhouette which I love in a hairstyle involving two parts- though it may be bunny ears, it still looks rather chic, particularly from the side view.
It isn’t until you get a glimpse from the back that you see the full vision of what they are. From the front, because I began the ears at a medium height in the back (you can certainly make them more obvious by creating them high on top!) from the front you get just a cute little glimpse of the ears. I did not look to overdoing it, merely something unique to play around with.
Definitely makes for a playful Easter holiday look, and I am enjoying having them! I wish you all a wonderful Easter- relax, love your style, and enjoy the time with your loved ones!
Twisted & Angled Into A Bow Hair Fashion Style
April 2, 2009
It has been a little while since I last styled my hair up and so this morning I was feeling inspired. I just started to play around a bit with my hair, originally considering a classy little side swept style, but then I did something different.
I started down low and off to the side- sectioning my hair off similar to how I normally would for the side swept up do. Only this time instead of clustering the twisted up buns on the same side together, I began to work my way up in a diagonal- not really on purpose at first it just kind of ended up in that direction.
Sometimes you just have to follow your hair to wherever it wishes to go to. As was the case here. I didn’t know what to think at first but it began to grow on me and now I rather like it.
It is different and unique, but still very clean with that classic feel to it. The principles are not wild, but come together in a lovely modern manner.
Dressed up and finished with a bright and long red bow- I wrapped it around each mini-bun and tied the bow on top. So there is a low bun on one side and a high bun on the other (a cute bright bow peaking out). My hair is so dark that I wanted a contrast to make the design have more of a pop factor to it. I think a white ribbon would do the trick as well-but the red has such a nice richness to it.
