Fall Trends: Leopard is the New Neutral

No I am not drinking and I have not gone crazy (any crazier than before).  Leopard print is an awesome neutral and you should buy it.  

The key is to use it in moderation, and use it wisely.  If I could have three leopard wishes they would be a pair of flat leopard print shoes, a leopard print clutch, and a leopard print belt.  But single file please, only wear one of these items at a time!

Get your grrrr on.

Leopard Print Ailee Flat - $140 Michael by Michael Kors

Okay and a cheaper version...Leopard Print Oxford - $24.99 at Charlotte Russe

Leopard Print Haircalf Clutch - $29.94 (40% off) The Limited
Leopard Print Narrow Belt - $6.95 at H&M

If you are feeling feisty try these...

Leopard Ruched Sheath Dress - $45.00 Jennifer Lopez for Kohls

Leopard Slipper Pumps - $41.99 LC Lauren Conrad for Kohls

Pair the leopard with one of these !

Buns, Blouses and Baubles...Oh My!

In grade school I had a uniform exclusive to red, white, and blue.  In high school I had a dress code, which I often broke.  Now a days I wear whatever I want!  But I do have a signature uniform that I have developed.  It's my go to combination when I can't think straight in the morning.

It's simple...blouse + bun + bauble = a work or weekend friendly outfit.  Just add skinny jeans or ponte pants and you are in business! 

You will have to supply your own bun, sorry!

Fuschia blouse - $19.99 Apt. 9 for Kohls (available in other colors and in sleeveless)
White crystal bauble (that I also own in mint) - $9.99 at Jane.com


Or pair with one of these!

 

Julie Zip Pocket Skinny Pants - $59.59 at Ann Taylor Loft
Color Scheme - Tan blouse, white crystal bauble, and  leopard print flats.

Rock Star Ankle Zip Jeans - $32 at Old Navy
Color Scheme - Turquoise blouse with navy crystal bauble and brown lace up ankle boots
 









Slim Leg Ankle Pant in Red - $20 at JC Penney
Color Scheme - Ivory blouse with mint crystal bauble and tan pumps




Hope this fool proof combo works for you!

~B

Makeup Mishap - How Much Moolah is in Your Makeup Bag?

Over the weekend I was careless and lost my makeup bag.  I had a performance and in between costume changes, I left my magnificent makeup bag behind.  Someone hit the jackpot in my opinion!  I was thinking about what all was in there (all of my day to day makeup plus some extras) and how much I had invested in the products.  I have created the list below.  I really would recommend each of these products but having to buy them all at once may hurt. I am working on a list to replenish my stock and I will share that with you soon!   

Face Fail - Totals $35.71
Sonia Kushuk Hidden Agenda II Concealer Palette - $10.49 at Target.com
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup - $11.97 at Walmart.com
Rimmel Natural Bronzer - $4.28 at Walmart.com
Maybelline Mineral Powder Blush - discontinued product but Maybelline Mineral Powder is $8.97 at Walmart.com

Sonia Kushuk Hidden Agenda II Concealer Palette 



Eye Sore - Totals $30.98
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner - $20 at sephora.com (THIS ONE HURT!)
Flower Zoom-in Ultimate Mascara - $7.98 at Walmart.com 
e.l.f. Studio Kohl Eyeliner - $3.00 at Walmart.com 

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner


Lip Loss - Totals $58.42
Revlon ColorStay Matte Red Lipstick in classic red - similar product $7.48 at Walmart.com
Revlon ColorStay Lip Liner in classic red - $6.94 at Walmart.com
Mirabella Lip Colour (2 of them!)- $44 ($22 a piece) at Mirabellabeauty.com


Miscellaneous Misfits - $50.39(ish)
Neutrogena Vanity Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes - $6.97 at Walmart.com
Soho Beauty Sponge - $4.97 at Walmart.com
Revlon Kabuki Brush - $7.47 at Walmart.com
Sonia Kushuk Core Tools Concealer Brush No. 110 - $5.99 at Target.com
Redken Hairspray (sample size, but still!)
Powder eyeshadow (can't remember the brand)
Makeup sponge - cheap 16 pack is around $3.98 at Walmart.com but I only had one in there
Bobby pins
Makeup Bag - $24.99 at Target.com

Sonia Kushuk Core Tools Concealer Brush No. 110


Grand Total(ish) $175.50....can you say ouch?

I was pretty bummed, but after all, they are just things.  I am trying to look on the bright side! 

~B

Work Wardrobe: Black on Black

Sometimes staying monotone can be a good thing!  While I love color, I also love a classic black and white color scheme.  Simple but still interesting because of the pattern on the skirt.  I did throw a little color in there by wearing Maybelline's Cool Coral Stain Gloss (you can't really see it in the picture).  Each piece is a staple item and the skirt is a statement staple, I think I just made up a new thing!  ~B

Basic Black Tee - Apt. 9 for Kohls (I love this shirt, super comfy and wear it all the time!)
Print skirt with Ruffle - The Limited ( I think I got this back in '08...that is how you know it is a good statement staple!)
Black suede heels with bow - Apt. 9 for Kohls (see the purple heel here on clearance!)
Necklace - Forever 21?  I got it forever ago and I can't be 100% sure where it came from.


 

B's View: Starbucks...the Sample Cup

I am not a huge coffee person so this is news to me.  On a recent road trip we stopped at a Starbucks and my fickle friends weren't sure what to get.  The barista (that fancy name isn't fooling anyone) offered a sample.  Needless to say, I was pretty excited when I turned around to see them holding these petit parfaits.  I may have squealed, but hey they are so cute!  Anyway, if you can't make up your mind, hold off on ordering the Tall and order the small first!  ~B

Thanks to my beautiful friends B and C for being my models...oh by the way, I am putting your picture on my blog.

B's Favorite Things: Grey T-shirt

Danny and I were shopping at H&M (which now has a website for the USA!) when he picked up a plain grey tee for $5.  He wore it once and on the second round of washing it met the unforgiving heat of the dryer.  Oops.  But don't be too sad because I have a new grey tee now!  It is quite the multifunctional piece.  This is how I wear it.

Girly Grey:  The tee still has a guy's fit so when I wear it I roll the sleeves up a few times and usually tuck it in to a skirt or pants.  The grey tee is a wonderful foundation for patterns, a bold lip color, or a statement necklace.  If you are feeling saucy, go for all three!  

Girly Grey Look (pardon the amateur photo)

Weekend Grey: When I want to look relaxed but still stylish I will throw on a pair of skinny jeans, combat boots, and a leather jacket with the tee.  Maybe a long gold necklace or patterned scarf to add some pop.  A red lip and aviators will throw you over the cool edge!

Weekend Grey Look

Career Grey:  Yes, I rocked the grey tee at work and yes it worked.  I paired the tee with white dress pants, a silver skinny belt, black ballet flats and my yellow statement necklace.  I left patterns and leather out of it to make a simple and clean look.  Put your hair in a bun for the lady-like touch this outfit needs.

Career Grey Look

Are you running to check your t-shirt drawer?  You probably should!

~B 

***All of the clothes pictured on this page live in my closet.***

Oh La La: Catherine Malandrino for Kohls

If you know my shopping habits, I tend to frequent a little place called Kohls.  On any given day I can look down at my outfit and find at least one item that is from there.  And if it is from Kohls, chances are I got it on sale too!  That is one of the many reasons that this is my go to place.  

Another reason is for the collaborations that Kohls creates with MAJOR designers like Narcisco Rodriguez, Derek Lam, and now Catherine Malandrino.  It is all through the avenue of DesigNation.  Every time a new collabo is announced I can hardly contain my excitement.  There is always something new and different being put out on the Kohls store floor!

Catherine Brings the Oh La La
The collection Catherine has created is obviously French inspired.  You will see the Eiffel tower silhouette used in the back of her sheath dress or printed on a cute sweater.  The Paris, je t 'aime tee is another cue.  It's not overdone but not hidden either.  Malandrino brings a chic and streamlined collection to the masses.  

How Many Euro?
DesigNation is bringing these major designers into the "real world" for us.  Naturally there is going to be a bit of a sticker jump from some other collections you see at Kohls.  Initially the prices range from $34 chic tees, to $78 dresses, topping off at $120 for a feminine quilted motorcycle jacket. (all pictured below)




Paris Je T'aime Tee $36                              (also available in white and blue)

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Stained-Glass Faux-Wrap Dress $78

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Faux-Leather Motorcycle Jacket $120

                                                                                                           

                                                         

My Obsessions

There are quite a few drool-worthy pieces in this collection.  The price makes me cringe a little so I will probably hold off on any purchases until Kohls applies a discount to the line.  Put that with a 20% off coupon and bam, you have yourself a deal!  So immediately I fell in amore with the Pleated Jumpsuit.  The top mimics a wrap dress which is insanely flattering for all ladies.  The fabric looks so comfortable but the look is so polished.  The piece de resistance?  It's available in NAVY.  I am such a sucker for that blue hue that I can hardly resist.  The ensemble is also available in a classic black.  I will be purchasing this look for sure!  

Pleated Jumpsuit $88

Here are a few other items I would love to pick up.  The Hooded Over-Sized Jacket looks amazingly cozy and cool while still maintaining the chicness of a Parisian woman.  The Draped Ponte Top has a cool minimalist vibe which always makes for a sophisticated work look.  The zipper gives it a bit of a biker edge without being too rough.  The ponte top also comes in black or blue.

      Hooded Over-Sized Jacket $78               Draped Ponte Top $48

You can find all of these designs online at Kohls starting on September 27th and select styles will be available in stores.  

Overall, I love the collection and I am glad it is available to us all but I will be waiting for a sale to make any purchases. I don't think I can count a navy blue jumpsuit as a timeless staple...or can I?

Au revoir!

~B

The e.l.f. on My Shelf

Ladies and... well ladies, let's talk about a few products I love from the beauty line of E.L.F. (eyes, lips, face).   Let me lay out a few scenarios for you.

Scenario #1 - You don't wake up to your alarm and you have about 15 minutes to get ready for work.  You are rushing through your make-up, you are almost done and CRAP, you just drew your eye-liner on too high and now you look like you are going to a different kind of work if you know what I mean.

e.l.f. Fix - Well don't you worry!  I have the magic fix!  e.l.f. makeup and cosmetics makes the e.l.f. Studio Makeup Remover Pen.  This bad boy is the Tide pen of eye makeup and allows you to remove just a hint of mascara with pin point precision.  Something this sophisticated must be expensive right?  Yup, it is a whopping $3!  You can find this product at Walmart, Target, or Walgreens.  

e.l.f. Studio Makeup Remover Pen, $3

Scenario #2 -  This one is easy.  Hot date, potential make out, and chapped lips.  Nooooooo. 

e.l.f. Fix - You need something that is going to make your lips feel like butta (like SNL, Mike Meyers, Coffee Talk, butta)  Lo and behold, the e.l.f. Studio Lip Exfoliater.  Its comes in the shape of a lipstick but it has the exfoliating power of a pumice stone.  Oh and it smells awesome.  Pretty awesome right?  Well in keeping with the price range this exfoliater is also only $3!  Woohoo!  Get your smooch on.

 e.l.f. Studio Lip Exfoliater, $3

Scenario #3 -  Let's say you have chosen one (or 5) of the lovely and bright lip colors I am obsessed with and shared with you in my Lipstick Obsessed post.  Well you probably don't want to go and buy lip liner in everyone one of these colors, and they would be pretty hard to find anyway.  So, what to do...

e.l.f. Fix - I have three words for you.  Clear lip liner.  Boom.  I know.  The e.l.f. Studio Lip Lock Clear is amazing!  It works like a charm and the best part is that you can't make a mess with it because it's clear.  This is a must have for lipstick lovers.  You can pick it up for, you guessed it...$3!

e.l.f. Studio Lip Lock Clear, $3

I have tried a few products from e.l.f. that I wasn't crazy about.  Maybe skip e.l.f. Essential Triple Tip Waterproof Eyeliner Pen [$2] or the e.l.f. Studio Bronzer [$3].  I didn't have much luck with either of these products.

I have so many more e.l.f. products that I A. love and B. want to try!  And you can go crazy because it is so cheap.  You will be hard pressed to find many products over $3 a pop.  Check out the available products and amazing pricing at http://www.eyeslipsface.com/.  If you have a question about any of the other products, feel free to post below!  

Christmas came early ladies!

~B

 

Side Braid Your Way - #1 Low Impact Pseudo-Braid

I love a good side braid.  It involves a mix of texture and (seemingly) effortless messiness.  It is a great weekend look and it is guaranteed to make any look seem at least 10 points cooler.  Now I know not everyone has braiding mastered so I have a few versions to offer up, this one is the Low Impact version for people who either don't have the patience, time, or the finger stamina to braid it up.  Shout out to my long time best friend Sarah B. on this one...I know you can handle it!

Low Impact Pseudo-Braid

You will need:

~ 3-4 thin hair rubber bands (I like to use the clear ones)

~ a comb or brush

Optional:

~ styling cream or hair spray (for those lucky people that have a curly texture)

Step 1: Start by pulling your hair into a low ponytail off to one side of your neck using a clear rubber band. Use hair spray or styling cream to smooth down hair if need be.  If I have my hair parted on one side, I usually pull my hair to the opposite side but do what works best for your hair.  

Step 2:  Place another rubber band around your ponytail about 3-4 inches lower than the first.  If you don't have long hair I would stick with 3 inches.  Repeat one or two more times, spacing the rubber bands evenly. I like to leave about 4 inches of hair at the bottom but it is really up to you and what looks best on your hair.

Step 3:  This is the fun part, it's time for you to get messy!  Go to each section of hair between rubber bands and pull the hair to each side spreading it out.  Start at the top and work your way down.  It's kind of like loosening up your tennis shoe laces.  Start small and adjust as you go until you are happy with how it looks.  I would either have each section be evenly spread out or start wider at the top and get smaller as you get down to the end.  

Viola!

I like to find a pair of killer earrings to compliment the do but you can go easy with studs or naked ears too.  This can be as messy or as neat as you want, that part is up to you!  

Feel free to leave a comment if you try this style out or have any questions.  I would love to see pictures of your Low Impact Braid!

~ B

Ashleyliane Dance Company - "Go"

Hey friends, check out the newest video from Ashleyliane Dance Company (ADC).  Going strong on Season 7!  Get more information at ashleyliane.com ~ B

Concept and Choreography: Ashley L. Tate (Artistic Director of Ashleyliane Dance Company)

Filming and Production: SYGU Creative

Dancers: Taylor Bailey, Brianna Biffignani, Lauren Chastain, Ashley Claybrook, Bridgette Fletcher, Brianna Ford, Marisa Giangrasso, Ashley Haynes, Brandy Kimble, Rachel Lampert, Carly Lawrence, Jaci Layman, Leshay Mathis, Olivia Perez, Jalesia Person, Ashley L. Tate, and Brian Westberg.

Music: TNGHT (We do not own the rights to this music, but we love the sound.)

Work Wardrobe: All Buttoned Up

It is funny how a bright white button-up can automatically give your outfit a professional feel.  Even if it involves sequins!

White button-up blouse with silver sequin detail: Kohls (on clearance)

Purple pencil skirt with ruffle detail on back:  JC Penney (clearance again!)

Silver skinny belt: Kohls

Throw on a pair of black heels or a even a fun bright color to play with the color of the skirt.

~B

How to Succeed in Color Blocking

I love me some color!  A lot of times we shy away from mixing bright colors because we might think it is too much.  But where there is a hue, there is a way!  Let's go over some tips.

Tip #1 - Start small.  Using accessories to embark on your color blocking path allows you to test the waters before you take the dive in.  Belts, scarves, and necklaces will all lend small doses of color with out overwhelming your outfit or your eyes.

Tip #2 - Look for items that are sold together or styled together in the store.   The dress in the picture above was sold with the belt (and on clearance for $7, booyah!).  Let all of that hard work and styling that clothing brands do, be to your benefit. HOWEVER, do not trust everything you see in the stores.  They aren't all winning looks.

Tip #3 - Use the flash.  If I am contemplating wearing an outfit or purchasing a piece of clothing, I will take a picture of myself wearing it.  If you still like it in the blinding light of that unflattering flash, chances are, it's for you!  If you don't have a flash handy, ask a man.  They are just as honest as a flash!

Tip #4 - Use a jewel tone.  Jewel tones are among the most flattering for every skin type.  Start with a jewel toned color and pair it with something just a bit lighter.  Find some jewel tone inspiration below!

  Tip #5 - Keep it simple ladies!  This is a rule applicable across all styling opportunities.  If you are going to go bright, keep the style simple and classic.  Bright colors can go many wrong directions pretty easily including trashy, juvenile, or just plain crazy.  I don't think we want any of these as descriptors to our style.  Try pairing two bright colors with neutral accessories in colors such as black to keep it grounded.  Add a simple hair style too.  A bun or ponytail is my go to!

 My favorite color blocking moment to date.  It's work friendly too!  (I am wearing black heels too!)

 
I challenge you to at least give color a try.  You will find it can look very sophisticated and invite a lot of compliments because you are standing out in a new way.  Have fun!  - B

Work Wardrobe: The Modern Audrey

This is a painful post for because my favorite and most versatile necklace pictured here decided to bust at a work event.  And yes, it is made up of teeny tiny little beads so yeah...that was fun.  If ANYONE finds a necklace like this, please let me know.  I can't seem to find one anywhere. YOU WILL BE MY NEW BEST FRIEND, IF YOU WANT TO BE...

Anywho, this is a simple outfit but I think it works!  The bun is a joint effort.  I am rocking a bun enhancer which is easy to use and who doesn't want more bun in their life?

Black pointe pants with silver zipper at ankle- Elle [brand available at kohls.com]  Also take a look at the Simply Vera by Vera Wang Ponte pants at Kohls.  She has several different colors if you already have your basic black!

Tan asymmetrical collared blouse [one of my favorites!] - Daisy Fuentes [brandy available at kohls.com]

Black beaded bib necklace - Walmart on clearance, yeah you heard me 

Bun enhancer - H&M [They are always up by the check out line and also by the accessories]

Bare lip gloss - Mirabella [similar products available at mirabellabeauty.com, this stuff is THE BEST]

Polka dot iPhone cover with hot pink frame - Kate Spade purchased at Von Maur [Kate Spade makes the best cell phone covers!  There is nothing better than a designer with a chic sense of humor. Check them out at katespade.com]

A Blooming Beauty

I can get pretty excited about little things like a song I love playing on the radio or when I get a free cookie with my "My Panera" card (don't act like you haven't been there), but new make-up brands get me really excited!  I love seeing the shiny new packaging, how they present their brand, and what new and innovative products they lure me in with. 

The new line I am delving into is Flower sold strictly at Walmart (wallets sing a chorus of "Amen").  It was created by actress Drew Barrymore and if anyone knows quality make-up, it would a child-star turned successful actress who has been the face of Covergirl for years!  She has created a high quality line of make-up products that are affordable and available to the masses. She does this by not paying for advertising like traditional companies do (pretty interesting, huh?).  But who needs advertising with a mouthpiece and a face like Drew?  Let me take you through what I know so far.

Flower Facts

• the products are all made in the USA 
• the products are not tested on animals 
• the most expensive product in the line only cost $13.98!!!

Picking the Flowers - Go on & try these B tested products

Zoom-in Ultimate Mascara [retails for $7.98 at walmart.com]

This mascara is pretty high tech!  The brush has three settings that you adjust by turning the top of the cap to the right or left.  This will adjust your length, curl, and volume.  That part is kind of amazing!  The mascara comes in 4 colors right now; intense black, black, black brown, and brown.  Pretty standard repertoire.  I just purchased my second tube and I am still digging it.  It doesn't flake or smudge and I like that I can adjust the wand to fit what kind of eyelash day I am having (yes it differs, just like your hair).  I will definitely continue picking this flower!

[Pictured Below: Zoom-in Ultimate Mascara]

Kiss Stick Velvet Lip Color [Retails for $6.98 at walmart.com]
I love this stuff!!!!  I fell in love with the color Tender Tuberose when using the Petit Fleur triplet (discussed below) and I had to have it.  I will say the velvet lip color is a different feeling.  It is a dryer texture so if you don't like that, I would pick another rose, perhaps the Kiss Stick High-shine Lip Color.  The Tender Tuberose color is still natural but does a great job of accentuating the lips.  I would describe it as a soft mauve.  I can't wait to try the other eight colors ranging from a soft pink to plum.  For this price, you can afford to buy the whole bouquet! 

 [Pictured Below: Kiss Stick Velvet Lip Color in Tender Tuberose]

Almost in Full Bloom

Petite Fleurs for Lips [retails for $6.98 at walmart.com]

Do you remember those pencils we had in grade school that were so much fun?  That is the concept Flower so smartly used to give the user options.  The Fleur comes with three different colors so you can swap them out by taking the top color and using it to push the next color up.  The issue is that the packaging does not feel the need to behave.  I was so excited to carry this "pocket triplet" around but the cap will not stay on.  While I enjoy the collaborative desire, I don't want my lipstick mingling with my other make-up or my make-up bag.  This same design is also sold in eye shadow and concealer.  Brilliant in theory but this flower needs some more time to bloom.  Maybe next Spring?

[Pictured Below: Petit Fleurs Lip Pocket Triplets]

I am looking forward to trying more of these products, especially the concealer/foundation/powder portion which Drew emphasizes when she speaks of the quality.  Flower has products to cover you from head to toe, offering a line of nail polish as well.  With its soft and natural colors, pretty packaging, and famously fabulous face I can't wait for this brand to be in full bloom!

You can find out more about the brand at www.flowerbeauty.com