The Midi

Get out your razor, there's still time to show off those gorgeous gams this winter! What I'm talking about is the midi skirt. Midi = mid length. I'm loving the classic silhouette of this length, don't you? It is very 50s, young Audrey Hepburn; sophisticated and chic. Vogue even claimed it the new hemline for Spring 2014.  

So, go simple on top and let the hemline do all the talking. Dig around for a clutch that will make a statement and throw on a pair of  understated black pumps.  It is critical that the midi hemline be paired with a heel (sorry, you've got to leave your flats at home!). Go easy on the jewelry unless you intend to really glam things up.  I would suggest some crystal drop earrings.

All of the above styles can be found at ASOS. All of which, by the way, are under $100/each.

From L // R

Sequin midi skirt

Leather midi skirt

Lace maxi skirt

What are your thoughts on this midi-length skirt? Please, share your thoughts.

A Little Bit of Sparkle!

Add a little bit of sparkle to your usual beauty routine by embellishing your nails with glitter nail polish.  

Depending on the look you are going for; glitter nail polish can be worn as subtle or bold as you intend it to be.  I am sporting a look similar to trend No. 3 (as charted below) using a light pink Essie nail polish with a bold gold/silver glitter accent polish from OPI.  I have been adoring the look as the week goes on and honestly; who doesn't love a bit of glitz and glam?

Glitter and sparkles are all over the map this holiday season and this is the perfect way to ease yourself into the holiday spirit.  Start with a neutral application if you are averse to the bold look and build out from to where you are comfortable.  As a subtle reminder: a little goes a long way!  

Shine on!

1. Neutral nail polish with a single coat of large sparkle polish
2. Neutral polish with a light dusting of sparkle polish just on the tip of the nail
3. Neutral nail polish with bold sparkle nail polish on ring finger of both hands

Blonde + Ombre = Blombre

I don't think I need to do much explaining on the blonde ombre.  The look is trendy yet sensational and effortless.  What do you think about these blombre styles?  I think these are some of the best examples, yet!

Let's do some name dropping, shall we?  Can you recommend any hairstylists in your area that are pros at mastering the ombre look? 

Drugstore Essentials

Ahhh, there are so many fun and exciting things going on in my life right now and I’m finding it hard to concentrate on what I’m supposed to be doing, momentarily, so I’m writing a blog post in lieu of alternative productive activities!

Drugstore skin care items worth purchasing:

1.   Garnier Skin Naturals Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream

In an effort to lower the cost of my beauty product budget and a desperate need for quality face moisturization; I selected Garnier’s  Skin Naturals Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream as the “summer drink” for my parched face.  I bought this product in anticipation that I would use up the remainder of my daily face moisturizer, Clinique DramaticallyDifferent Gel Moisturizing Gel, sooner than later.  I finally got around to religiously using this gel cream in the evenings and as-needed for daily use and have been awestruck by the quality of this product. This product delivers all the benefits you would find in a designer skin care brand but at a fraction of the price.  The product does an outstanding job locking in moisture and does not make your face appear greasy when worn throughout the day.  This refreshing gel-cream will also help you create that natural, dewy look we all aspire to have!  Don’t let the low sticker-price detour you from buying this product.  At an astounding $8 to $9 per tub, you won’t feel guilty applying liberally and often.  Sit back and watch the magic take place!  I am so happy I discovered this knock-out product.

2.   Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub

This is the absolute perfect “summer” addition to any skin care regimen.  I bought this product because I was looking for a non-invasive alternative to a daily facial scrub.  After peddling over many other alternatives, I’m so glad I chose Neutrogena’s Grapefruit Foaming Scrub.  This product smells magical and couldn’t be more refreshing.  I’ve enjoyed working this scrub into my daily showering regimen.   The product does a good job eliminating the harmful dirt, dead skin and bacteria which are all notorious for creating breakouts.  Additionally, the gentle micro-beads work to polish the skin with visible results.  The product does include some Salicylic Acid acne medicine, but does not cause irritation.  The Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub is a refreshing alternative to other daily facial scrubs and I will definitely repeat the purchase in the future. 

3.   Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Pads

Look no further for removing tough eye makeup then the coveted Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Pads.  I have been using these makeup remover pads for a long time and haven’t found a more effective solution for removing stubborn eye makeup.  The pads are the perfect size and come pre-moistened.  They are composed of a soft solution that doesn’t irritate the eye and is not too oily (which is often the problem with most eye makeup removers).  Before using the product, I would recommend washing the face and using the pad to do the extra “clean up”.  A reliable product at a great price?  There is no better solution!  

I'm curious; what are your favorite drugstore products?

Pony Tail

Try it yours

Ah yes, the pony tail.  I don’t know if it is the dry Arizona climate or just the fact that I forget to “put my hair up” from day to day (with the exception of working out, doing chores or running errands on the fly).  Of course, there is no better feeling then getting hair off the back of your neck after a long day at work but in terms of everyday styling; I’ve totally neglected the up-do.  Until, recently, of course! 

I think it was the “sock bun” that inspired me to start pulling my hair back more often.  Or maybe it is a seasonal thing, as the weather gets warmer?  Hence, I am going to share with you my most favorite pony-tail style.  I don’t know the exact name of this style but hopefully the pictures and my attempt below at giving directions will fill in all the blanks.

Pony-tail style guide:

1. Absolutely, do not do this pony-tail with freshly washed hair.  You will want some dirty product in your hair to give the pony some texture and volume.  Although, do as you wish.
2. Tease your crown.  You are going to want some volume at the crown of your head and if you have bangs, give them a little bit of a tease, too.  I tease my hair almost everyday, so this step comes naturally for me.  If you prefer an absolutely sleek look, go for it.  I think this style is fool proof.
3. Lightly brush over the teased mess you have created with a soft-bristle round brush.  You will just want to smooth over what rats-nests you may have created.  Spray with a firm hold hair spray (or whatever you prefer) to keep the shape.
4. Let the hairspray dry completely and gather your hair effortlessly half way between the center of the back of your head and the bottom of your hair line.
5. Secure with a nylon hair tie (or whatever hair tie you typically use).  Slightly tease the bunch of hair that is now your pony tail for added volume.
6. You are going to gather one of the longer strands of hair falling from your pony tail (closest to your scalp).  Make sure you’ve got a good handle on the bunch of hair and begin to wrap it around the base of the pony tail (where the hair tie sits).  Wrap the hair around until it exhausts itself.  Secure and tuck the strands underneath the pony tail with two bobby pins.
7. Spray your head as you feel necessary with extra hair spray and presto—you are done!

The whole process takes about 5 minutes, max (even though my directions could be interpreted as longer then that).    

This look is uber chic, totally glamorous and wicked easy to pull-off in a hurry.  Hail to the pony tail gods, this look is fabulous!

A Tale of Two Necklaces

 

Two great statement necklaces—with a click of a button!  After living in Flagstaff for some time, I’ve become somewhat familiar with online shopping.  Both these necklaces are standout pieces that can bought online.  Also, want to know a dirty little secret?  These styles are “knock offs” of large retail store offerings.  Think: Anthropologie and J. Crew's finest.  I will explain in specifics below.  So, take the guesswork out of shopping and simply point, click and wear! 

(One)

Inspiration: Anthropologie “Stormy Seas Necklace” 

(One) Stormy Seas Necklace

The scoop: The original “Stormy Seas Necklace” sold retail, at Anthropologie, somewhere around $100 to $250 depending on how elaborate the beadwork, etc.  Contrary to the necklaces’ popularity, it is my understanding that Anthropologie is no longer selling this necklace!  The good news: there are countless private jewelers/dealers (think Etsy, EBay, Amazon) that sell their own “knock offs” of the iconic necklace. 

Where to buy: I would recommend buying from an Etsy dealer, Fresh Eclectic Ornaments, for the most comprehensive selection of styles and affordable price.  You can even custom order your necklace from scratch!  However, doing a general search in Google Shopping for “Anthropologie Stormy Seas Necklace” will see an abundance of options! 

Additional Commentary: My only major suggestion would be to consider selecting a style with a jersey chain.  The amount of beadwork makes the necklace awfully heavy and it is comforting to have soft material lay on the back of your neck, as opposed to a metal chain.  The other fancy feature about a jersey chain is that you can tie the necklace to various lengths depending on the neckline of your shirt, etc.

(Two)

Inspiration: JCrew“Bubble Necklace”

(Two) Bubble Neckla

The scoop: This necklace has been posted all over Pinterest and I have also seen it in the JCrew store retailing for a pretty $150.  Can you find it cheaper?  You betcha!  At around $20 or less, you can absolutely purchase this necklace.

Where to buy:  If you are on a budget, I would recommend buying the “Bubble Necklace” on EBay.  However, if you are comfortable dropping $150 on the authentic necklace, I would recommend buying direct from JCrew.  Remember: when purchasing from EBay, you are probably either buying a knock-off or a factory item.  On the EBay site, simply search “JCrewNecklace” and you will see many hits.  If you’d prefer to forgo the bidding process, you can easily purchase within the “Buy Now” section. A fun necklace at an achingly affordable price? Perfection!

Additional commentary:   Again, if you are buying the “Bubble Necklace from EBay it is most likely coming from a distributor/dealer/factory owner in China.  So, do not anticipate receiving the necklace overnight.  You should prepare for the necklace to arrive no sooner than two weeks after your payment goes through, as it is being shipped from China.  I know friends who have bought through these dealers and they had complete success.  Remember, patience is a virtue!

Keeping up with the Times

One of my mild and ongoing obsessions this year has been the statement watch.  Whether it be Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Timex or Fossil; each piece is just as stunning as the next.  

What to look for?  A piece that is feminine but still maintains the classic menswear look.  I love bling--but best to not go overboard if buying as an investment piece to wear for years to come.  Another striking feature? A mother of pearl inlay. 

As the holidays approach, my mind wonders to hues of gold timepieces and I think I know what to put on my Christmas list...

Threadcase

Baby Doll Top $23

Saturday Night Fever Dress $38

Emerald City Clutch $28

I stumbled upon a fun website, Threadcase.  Feminine with a flare of contemporary style--affordable, too!

Bonus: $5 flat rate shipping and free shipping on orders over $50.