Yesterday at the grocery store while standing in the check-out line I spotted a magazine that I hadn't heard of before called "Real Simple- Life Made Easier," and based on the name and cover I decided to buy it (hey, who doesn't want life to be simple?). I have not fully read it yet- but I came across something that caught my eye while flipping through the pages: an article on removing lipstick stains from your purse lining.
Constantly carrying makeup in your handbag has it's up and it's downs: while you can always look good after work meeting some of the girls for martini's at HH, it can also spill and stain the lining in your purse which is a pain and can ruin the insides of the bag. Especially if it is eyeliner or lip liner- ugh the worst! I had to toss a bag (thank goodness it was a cheap clutch!!!) because the top of my eyeliner came off at a party one night and I didn't notice until the morning. I was shocked when I opened the clutch to find the eyeliner tip completely broken off from all the damage it had done to the inside of the bag!
According to the article, here is a great way to remove makeup stains, and while it mostly highlights lipstick/liner, I bet it will work with all makeup stains:
"Grab the liquid detergent! Standard liquid dish detergent can help safely remove lipstick and lip liner stains from most cotton or polyester handbag linings. For all other materials, it's best to take the bag to a dry cleaner.
How to apply it: Dilute a cap full of dish detergent with an equal amount of warm water. Pull the lining as far out of the bag as you can. Then, using a cotton swab, apply the mixture to the stain in a circular motion. Switch swabs often so you don't rub the pigment back into the fabric. Allow the bag to air-dry. Repeat until the stain is removed."
-Real Simple Magazine (page 58), March 2010
If you like to read magazines, pick this one up the next time you are at the store. It's $4.99 and is loaded with beauty, fashion, decorating tips, health and even has easy recipes!
XOXO
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Monday, February 15, 2010
"My LIP GLOSS is poppin" -Lil Mama
Lip gloss- the one thing I have too much of in my makeup collection. I can't help it- lip gloss is a downfall of mine! I think lip gloss is better than lipstick- only because it adds shimmer and makes them look really pretty and eye catching.
Since lip gloss is not as dense as lipstick is in color, you should first line your lips with a lip pencil and fully color them in prior to applying the gloss. It should be a similar color to the gloss. For daytime, get a lip pencil in one shade lighter than the gloss and for night, use a lip pencil darker than the gloss for a more dramatic effect.
To make your lips look fuller you can find a gloss that has the "plump" in it, or you can take some shimmery eye shadow and apply it to the middle of your bottom lip after you have put on the gloss. It's a trick a lot of makeup artists do to make the illusion of fuller lips and it works! I use a very light gold since I mostly wear pinks. I also use a lip primer that plumps your lips to prepare them for gloss.
My fav's:
Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish by Bare Escentuals ($18). They have wonderful colors and the gloss lasts a very long time and is not thick. These are my favorite! Pair it with Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Stick. Apply the lip stick first to line the lips. I wear this combo almost every day! Find at Sephora.
MAC Tinted Lipglass ($14). The best color is Nymphette. ANYONE can wear this color- it is fantastic! It is a shimmery pink with gold undertones, which makes it work for all skin tones. When I wear Nymphette, I pair it with MAC Lipliner in Spice. You can find these at MAC stores or Nordstrom/Bloomingdales.
Benefit Lip Plump ($22). I wear this every single day before applying my lip color. It neutralizes your lip color and plumps them so when you put on the liner and gloss is gives them an extra oomph! You can find it in Sephora.
Random fact:
I got a big heart shaped box of Godiva Chocolates from my Dad yesterday. Inside the box is a little booklet that has a index of the chocolates. Now, I'm sure they all have this but I've never read them because let's face it- it's GODIVA chocolate- so they're all good. But, yesterday I decided to open it up and look at it. Not only does it have the chocolate index, but it has a little blurb about the Godiva Legacy- which I had never though of before, I just figured it was the owner's last name. Apparently, hundreds of years ago, there was a woman named Lady Godiva who was married to Lord Leofric, a ruler who was trying to tax the people in his city. Lady Godiva fought this and did not want him to raise the taxes. He challenged her to ride naked on a horse throughout the streets and if the people of the city remained, he would not charge the tax. She complied- and rode naked through the streets, but the people did not stay. Godiva Chocolates is named after Lady Godiva for her passion, style, sensuality and boldness.
XOXO
Since lip gloss is not as dense as lipstick is in color, you should first line your lips with a lip pencil and fully color them in prior to applying the gloss. It should be a similar color to the gloss. For daytime, get a lip pencil in one shade lighter than the gloss and for night, use a lip pencil darker than the gloss for a more dramatic effect.
To make your lips look fuller you can find a gloss that has the "plump" in it, or you can take some shimmery eye shadow and apply it to the middle of your bottom lip after you have put on the gloss. It's a trick a lot of makeup artists do to make the illusion of fuller lips and it works! I use a very light gold since I mostly wear pinks. I also use a lip primer that plumps your lips to prepare them for gloss.
My fav's:
Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish by Bare Escentuals ($18). They have wonderful colors and the gloss lasts a very long time and is not thick. These are my favorite! Pair it with Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Stick. Apply the lip stick first to line the lips. I wear this combo almost every day! Find at Sephora.
MAC Tinted Lipglass ($14). The best color is Nymphette. ANYONE can wear this color- it is fantastic! It is a shimmery pink with gold undertones, which makes it work for all skin tones. When I wear Nymphette, I pair it with MAC Lipliner in Spice. You can find these at MAC stores or Nordstrom/Bloomingdales.
Benefit Lip Plump ($22). I wear this every single day before applying my lip color. It neutralizes your lip color and plumps them so when you put on the liner and gloss is gives them an extra oomph! You can find it in Sephora.
Random fact:
I got a big heart shaped box of Godiva Chocolates from my Dad yesterday. Inside the box is a little booklet that has a index of the chocolates. Now, I'm sure they all have this but I've never read them because let's face it- it's GODIVA chocolate- so they're all good. But, yesterday I decided to open it up and look at it. Not only does it have the chocolate index, but it has a little blurb about the Godiva Legacy- which I had never though of before, I just figured it was the owner's last name. Apparently, hundreds of years ago, there was a woman named Lady Godiva who was married to Lord Leofric, a ruler who was trying to tax the people in his city. Lady Godiva fought this and did not want him to raise the taxes. He challenged her to ride naked on a horse throughout the streets and if the people of the city remained, he would not charge the tax. She complied- and rode naked through the streets, but the people did not stay. Godiva Chocolates is named after Lady Godiva for her passion, style, sensuality and boldness.
XOXO
Saturday, February 13, 2010
"There is no way back for me now. I am going to take you on journeys you’ve never dreamed were possible" -Alexander McQueen
Sadly, one of the most creative designers in fashion history- the legendary Lee Alexander McQueen past away on Thursday at the young age of 40. It is rumored that it was suicide because he was greatly depressed by the death of his mother just 9 days before. His incredible fashion design statements will forever be remembered in the fashion world.
His first name is Lee, however he dropped his first name and went by Alexander McQueen throughout his career. He worked at Givenchy as the Head Designer before partnering with Gucci for the Alexander McQueen label as the Creative Director and had boutiques throughout the world.
Although his designs are outrageous, shocking and sometimes weird- they are so creative and amazing you cannot help but stare at his pieces in awe. That, ladies, is a stunning designer. His outlandish runway shows are what people in the fashion industry lived for- I only WISH I could have seen one of his shows in person. Lady Gaga, Sarah Jessica Parker and Rihanna are all wearers of Alexander McQueen.
He made the skull image famous and featured leggings and skinny jeans once in a show and now look around- EVERYONE is wearing them. Alexander McQueen is a true inspiration and icon.
Check out his Spring 2010 Ready-To-Wear to see his marvelous, genius designs:
http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/S2010RTW-AMCQUEEN
I can only imagine how high the cost of his pieces will rise in his boutiques now. When I win the lotto, I'll let you know ;)
XOXO
Friday, February 12, 2010
Black is the new....Black
At work today we had a Chili Cook-Off and in attempts to help out in the workforce (it was a voluntary event) I decided to make chili (gasp!) and even better, it turned out GOOD (even bigger gasp!). So- my point about this chili story is, it's photographed to be put on the work website for all to see- YIKES. Naturally I had to think of what to wear this morning getting dressed and I immediately thought- BLACK.
Black is by far the BEST color to wear if you are feeling a little sluggish- it hides everything and is VERY flattering on. Be it a black skirt, shirt, pants- anything, I guarantee you it will almost always look good. When you wear a light color or white, it shows all. Especially when taking pics, black is by far the best choice.
A few staple pieces in your wardrobe should include a black dress (ooh la la- the LBD), a black skirt, a black pair of pants and a classic black cardigan. You can wear these items with anything! Plus- they will always look good being photographed ;) Just one thing- if wearing a black shirt, wear a black bra- or else the flash on a camera will make the shirt look see-thru!
"Wear" to look for these pieces- Banana Republic, INC or Tahari at Bloomingdales- you can usually find these brands on sale. AND Banana Republic has an awesome outlet!!
XOXO
Black is by far the BEST color to wear if you are feeling a little sluggish- it hides everything and is VERY flattering on. Be it a black skirt, shirt, pants- anything, I guarantee you it will almost always look good. When you wear a light color or white, it shows all. Especially when taking pics, black is by far the best choice.
A few staple pieces in your wardrobe should include a black dress (ooh la la- the LBD), a black skirt, a black pair of pants and a classic black cardigan. You can wear these items with anything! Plus- they will always look good being photographed ;) Just one thing- if wearing a black shirt, wear a black bra- or else the flash on a camera will make the shirt look see-thru!
"Wear" to look for these pieces- Banana Republic, INC or Tahari at Bloomingdales- you can usually find these brands on sale. AND Banana Republic has an awesome outlet!!
XOXO
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
SNOWMAGEDDON 2010
SNOWMAGEDDON has been upon us since last Friday and it is only getting worse with a snow storm tonight.UGH. While you are stranded indoors, take some time to do some beautifying!
I haven't worn makeup since Sunday night- yes, as much as I love makeup I decided to "detox" my skin from products for awhile since I won't be going anywhere. Still wash your face in the morning/evening and apply tons of moisturizer, since there are frigid degrees outside. Sometimes its good to give your skin a break from makeup and what better time than now, while you are couped up indoors.
Give yourself a mani/pedi! Since you have loads of time on your hands- give yourself a detailed polish- do the full deal- cut, file, buff, treat cuticles, and polish.
Organize your makeup. Go through all of your beauty products/makeup and toss anything you have had longer than 6 months you haven't used. You may even find something you forgot you have! I did this the other day and I found some eyeshadow I had misplaced and a few sample perfumes (which are great for travelling!).
Clean your closet. Yes- I hate doing this too, but with nothing else to do it's not as bad as it normally is. Put any unwanted clothes or clothes you cannot remember the last time you wore in a pile and donate them to Goodwill/Salvation Army/Church for people who really need them. If you haven't worn a sweater in over a year...it's probably time to give it up. Doing this will make more space for all the pretty, colorful spring clothes that are waiting for us right around the corner ;).
Read up- reading makes you smarter. Even if you have a book you've read before, try re-reading it. You may pick something up you missed the first time.
XOXO
I haven't worn makeup since Sunday night- yes, as much as I love makeup I decided to "detox" my skin from products for awhile since I won't be going anywhere. Still wash your face in the morning/evening and apply tons of moisturizer, since there are frigid degrees outside. Sometimes its good to give your skin a break from makeup and what better time than now, while you are couped up indoors.
Give yourself a mani/pedi! Since you have loads of time on your hands- give yourself a detailed polish- do the full deal- cut, file, buff, treat cuticles, and polish.
Organize your makeup. Go through all of your beauty products/makeup and toss anything you have had longer than 6 months you haven't used. You may even find something you forgot you have! I did this the other day and I found some eyeshadow I had misplaced and a few sample perfumes (which are great for travelling!).
Clean your closet. Yes- I hate doing this too, but with nothing else to do it's not as bad as it normally is. Put any unwanted clothes or clothes you cannot remember the last time you wore in a pile and donate them to Goodwill/Salvation Army/Church for people who really need them. If you haven't worn a sweater in over a year...it's probably time to give it up. Doing this will make more space for all the pretty, colorful spring clothes that are waiting for us right around the corner ;).
Read up- reading makes you smarter. Even if you have a book you've read before, try re-reading it. You may pick something up you missed the first time.
XOXO
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
"Cinderella is proof that a pair of SHOES can change your life"
Shoes. Every girl loves them. They are the one thing that are reliable in fashion- because even if you may have gained a few lbs around the holidays (hello, we ARE human), you know they will ALWAYS fit ;)
The smart way to buying shoes, like all other things is figuring out if you really need it and what you need. When you go shoe shopping, have some kind of idea of what exactly you are looking for- be it flats, work shoes, party shoes, etc. If you are buying a shoe for a specific outfit or dress, at least know the color you want before going shopping. It can be overwhelming trying to decide on everything in the store, so this way you will be a little more prepared and know what to be looking for. TIP: If you don't know what shoe to wear with an outfit, do some reasearch (fashion mags, online) to see what the celebs are wearing to get a few ideas.
Shoes you need: every woman should own a pair of classic black pumps, a comfortable pair of flats, a versitale boot, a stunning party shoe, a pretty summer sandal, and a pair of rain boots/snow shoes. These, to me, are must-have's.
Classic black pumps (round or pointy toe)- you can wear pumps to work with any suit, dress, slack, skirt- you name it, it will look good. They will always be in style- just don't over do it on the heel. For the summer, buy a pair of black open-toed pumps.
A comfortable flat- flats are great to wear out instead of sneakers. I LIVE in flats on the weekend- they can be paired with anything and can even be worn to work. Just make sure they are comfortable- uncomfortable flats can be very painful! Black, red, animal print and silver/gold are great colors for flats.
A versitale boot- this can be worn day to night- be it an ankle or knee high. Don't opt for the pointy toed 4 inch stileto heel, because you can't wear that to work! Opt for a pointy/rounded toe with a 2-3 inch heel- and they should be either leather or suede. I wear my knee highs ALL THE TIME. They look great with skirts!
A stunning party shoe- invest in a party shoe that you can wear with numerous outfits. Great colors are hot pink (if you tend to wear a lot of black, like me), red, bright blue/green or metallics. Nine West, Steve Madden and Aldo always have gorgeous options.
A summer sandal- ok, as much as I love flip-flops, there are some sun dresses that need something a little fancier. Find a pair of flat sandals that you like- there are tons of options (ones with jewels, metallics, flowers, etc). I live in my Jack Rogers 'Navajo' Thong in the summer. Steve Madden and DV by Dolce Vita are also great.
Rain/Snow boot- it's pretty obvious...and when the snow or pouring rain hits, you'll be glad you have something that keep your feet dry!
The NO-NO's of shoe shopping:
1. So you find a gorgeous pair of shoes, try them on and can barely walk.....leave them. If you can't walk in them in the store or they already hurt you feet, think of a night of standing/dancing or the staircase you will have to walk down- slipping down a flight of stairs because you cannot handle your shoes is not attractive. Yes ladies, no matter how stunning they are or how much they are on sale (which is prob the reason they are on sale), do not waste your money. You will wear them once and then they will retire to you closet, where they will never be worn again because you will remember the pain they caused you. I had a pair of sky high red peep toes I just got rid of recently due to this.
2. NEVER buy shoes online. I just had an issue with this last week. Buy the shoes in person, this way you can try them on and check them to see if they have any damages.
Shopping hints:
Discount stores- T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, Lowman's and DSW Shoe Warehouse- all of these stores have good brands of shoes like Nine West, Steve Madden, BCBG and more! I scored a gorgeous pair of peep-toe booties by MAXSTUDIO the other day for $50!
Designer store outlets- Filene's Basement, Nordstrom Rack, Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Off 5th- even though they are still a little pricey, you can find designer shoes for cheaper than their orignial cost!
XOXO
The smart way to buying shoes, like all other things is figuring out if you really need it and what you need. When you go shoe shopping, have some kind of idea of what exactly you are looking for- be it flats, work shoes, party shoes, etc. If you are buying a shoe for a specific outfit or dress, at least know the color you want before going shopping. It can be overwhelming trying to decide on everything in the store, so this way you will be a little more prepared and know what to be looking for. TIP: If you don't know what shoe to wear with an outfit, do some reasearch (fashion mags, online) to see what the celebs are wearing to get a few ideas.
Shoes you need: every woman should own a pair of classic black pumps, a comfortable pair of flats, a versitale boot, a stunning party shoe, a pretty summer sandal, and a pair of rain boots/snow shoes. These, to me, are must-have's.
Classic black pumps (round or pointy toe)- you can wear pumps to work with any suit, dress, slack, skirt- you name it, it will look good. They will always be in style- just don't over do it on the heel. For the summer, buy a pair of black open-toed pumps.
A comfortable flat- flats are great to wear out instead of sneakers. I LIVE in flats on the weekend- they can be paired with anything and can even be worn to work. Just make sure they are comfortable- uncomfortable flats can be very painful! Black, red, animal print and silver/gold are great colors for flats.
A versitale boot- this can be worn day to night- be it an ankle or knee high. Don't opt for the pointy toed 4 inch stileto heel, because you can't wear that to work! Opt for a pointy/rounded toe with a 2-3 inch heel- and they should be either leather or suede. I wear my knee highs ALL THE TIME. They look great with skirts!
A stunning party shoe- invest in a party shoe that you can wear with numerous outfits. Great colors are hot pink (if you tend to wear a lot of black, like me), red, bright blue/green or metallics. Nine West, Steve Madden and Aldo always have gorgeous options.
A summer sandal- ok, as much as I love flip-flops, there are some sun dresses that need something a little fancier. Find a pair of flat sandals that you like- there are tons of options (ones with jewels, metallics, flowers, etc). I live in my Jack Rogers 'Navajo' Thong in the summer. Steve Madden and DV by Dolce Vita are also great.
Rain/Snow boot- it's pretty obvious...and when the snow or pouring rain hits, you'll be glad you have something that keep your feet dry!
The NO-NO's of shoe shopping:
1. So you find a gorgeous pair of shoes, try them on and can barely walk.....leave them. If you can't walk in them in the store or they already hurt you feet, think of a night of standing/dancing or the staircase you will have to walk down- slipping down a flight of stairs because you cannot handle your shoes is not attractive. Yes ladies, no matter how stunning they are or how much they are on sale (which is prob the reason they are on sale), do not waste your money. You will wear them once and then they will retire to you closet, where they will never be worn again because you will remember the pain they caused you. I had a pair of sky high red peep toes I just got rid of recently due to this.
2. NEVER buy shoes online. I just had an issue with this last week. Buy the shoes in person, this way you can try them on and check them to see if they have any damages.
Shopping hints:
Discount stores- T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, Lowman's and DSW Shoe Warehouse- all of these stores have good brands of shoes like Nine West, Steve Madden, BCBG and more! I scored a gorgeous pair of peep-toe booties by MAXSTUDIO the other day for $50!
Designer store outlets- Filene's Basement, Nordstrom Rack, Neiman Marcus Last Call and Saks Off 5th- even though they are still a little pricey, you can find designer shoes for cheaper than their orignial cost!
XOXO
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
CRYSTAL COUTURE
If you live in the Washington DC Metro area, check out Crystal Couture going on THIS WEEK in Crystal City (http://www.crystalcity.org/do/2010couture). I went with some co-workers last night and it was pretty cool. The event runs from 6pm-10pm until this Saturday, February 6- which is the "Big" night as everyone was saying last night.
The show offers vendors with the latest fashions, jewelry, swimwear, handbags and more-You can even get your makeup done by some local makeup artisits! There are Runway shows that happen every 15 minutes featuring the designs of the vendors you see on the floor. My favorite was the jewelry- if you go, be sure to check out Nicky B Designs and Stella Dot.
Since last night was the opening, Aly from Mix 107 Fix was the host and I made it in her promo video for the event! Check me at the 2 minute mark and at the end!
http://www.mix1073fm.com/article.asp?id=800980
If you have the time, definitely check it out ;) When events like these come up, take advantage of them since it is something new and differnt you wouldn't necessarily do. Grab some dinner and a Martini before hand and it's a great night out with the girls!
XOXO
The show offers vendors with the latest fashions, jewelry, swimwear, handbags and more-You can even get your makeup done by some local makeup artisits! There are Runway shows that happen every 15 minutes featuring the designs of the vendors you see on the floor. My favorite was the jewelry- if you go, be sure to check out Nicky B Designs and Stella Dot.
Since last night was the opening, Aly from Mix 107 Fix was the host and I made it in her promo video for the event! Check me at the 2 minute mark and at the end!
http://www.mix1073fm.com/article.asp?id=800980
If you have the time, definitely check it out ;) When events like these come up, take advantage of them since it is something new and differnt you wouldn't necessarily do. Grab some dinner and a Martini before hand and it's a great night out with the girls!
XOXO
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