oh Canada!

With William and Kate's tour of Canada coming to an end, I would just like to say congratulations Kate on a lovely showing of chic fashion choices and clever accessory usage.

Mixing a purple wrap dress with a diamond brooches, a red hat with white crew-neck dress, Kate was a vision at every stop.

love all

I have always been a fan of Wimbledon, from the crisp white player adornments to the celebrity sittings. This year has proven no different. Although the activity has just begun, I already spot some stylish standouts, from court to club seats.

Serena looking classic, not trying as hard.

chicness...I spy Ralph

English newsies look, I like!

OBSESSED! This is my favorite look, all white with standout lips, beyond fabulous Gwen. You are not so bad yourself Gavin.

Smiles are always in style.

Okay, so this is from the French Open but come on. Sporting a similar silhouette at Wimbledon, the ruffles are perfection.

The Evian VIP Lounge was the place to be, as seen above with Dakota.

BANG!

I needed a change. After months upon months of the same, I was desperate for a new look. So, everyone, oh wait, the handful of people that follow this 'mumbo-jumbo' : the bangs are back!

Alex and I getting ready to board the boat on Lake Grapevine

After experiencing so many exciting changes in the past couple weeks, I felt the need to sync that with my look. Ladies and gentlemen, the new hair-do.

A change is a good thing! Although my hard effort to get my hair tamed, as seen in the photo to the right, was quickly corrupted by Lake Grapevine, the littlest of cuts can make all the difference.

xx

"New York women don't wear scrunchies"

So she is not a New York woman, but regardless of national citizenship, I believe anyone should be victim to this faux pas: SCRUNCHIES.

French tennis player Marion Bartoli, making big bucks in the pros, is astonishingly attempting to bring back the past trend that Carrie Bradshaw so critically claimed to be a sin. Why is a European woman, coming from a country creating the most cutting-edge styles falling to such levels?

Marion Bartoli, your scrunchy distracted me as I watched the French Open today. Yes, we all know you play tennis with a highly quirky, stand out style but please! This is my formal complaint.

bisous x

a HEALTHY summer glow

Okay, so as the summer rays beg for adoration, I find myself cold to its misgivings. As I am more frequently faced with over-bronzed bodies and fine lines on young faces, I feel the need to take the myths that we 'believe' and set them ablaze.

1. I don't burn, I tan. Thus, I don't have to wear sunscreen.

Stop lying to yourself. Skin of all shades and tones can be damaged from the sun. Whether you tan or burn, both are your bodies reaction to radiation and bad 'stuff.' They are your body attempting to protect itself. Both damage. BOTH!

2. Tanning bed are safer than sun exposure.

Epidemic?

There is a strong correlation between ultraviolet exposure, whether those rays come from inside or outside tanning. Ultimately, in an overwhelming amount of studies, it has been shown that tanning before the age of 35 up your chances of melanoma by 75%.

3. Tan looks better.

This is not a myth that can be disputed by a study or fact. However, why don't we try embracing the way genetics made us. There are pros and cons to all skin tones, but if we all start looking like umpa lumpas, who will lead the factory? What looks the best? Uhm, looking like yourself.


According to The Skin Cancer Foundation's website, tanning is harmful:

"The sun's UV rays damage the DNA of the skin's epidermal cells, triggering enzymes that race to repair the damage.  However, these enzymes do not always repair the DNA successfully, and all this unrepaired damage can lead to mutations that increase the risk of skin cancer.  Also, repeated unprotected sun exposure can cause photoaging – wrinkles, sagging skin, and spots associated with sun damage."

I know I would rather prevent wrinkles and sagging skin than be tan. What is stylish this summer: SPF.

Can't bare the idea of not being tan, try bronzer, spray tans or tanning lotion.Take a look at all the marvelous and kink-free options at: http://www.sephora.com/browse/section.jhtml?categoryId=S2100

bonne chance!

xx

Texas Style

As my first week in Texas has come and gone, I have noticed the southern charms of style and beauty in the lone star. My best friend that I am staying with has introduced me to the method of the madness: big hair. Born with the thickest of thick, I never felt the need to tease and contort my locks. However, as if the heat has gone to my head, I have become obsessed with this Texas way!

Alex and I on our first night out. 

The teasing is truly a process.

Step 1: either straight or curl hair (with curlers preferably)
Step 2: take top sections in both the back and sides to tease
Step 3: hair spray the underside of each section
Step 4: use a comb to tease the heck out of each section
Step 5: more hair spray, duh!
Step 6: repeat on each side
Step 7: use fingers to manage the massive puff of hair, tame

Then, throughout the night, stick fingers in hair to revitalize the poof you created hours before.

*notice the teased portion in the back

I have a feeling I am really going to like it here. Whether I leave in July or decide to remain, I will take this Texan technique with me. xx

A Momentous Occasion

The heir to the royal thrown was married on April 29. Tuning in with billions, not millions, of viewers worldwide, I was absolutely enthralled with every detail spoken by the endless press coverage. Although many highlights are dieing to be discussed, this is a blog about style and beauty. Thus, it is necessary to comment on Kate Middleton's dress, reminisent of Grace Kelly's stunner so many years ago.

Kate's Sarah Burton creation

Kate's inspiration?

Designed by Sarah Burton, kept secret until the day itself, the dress was marvelous. Burton is the designer of Alexander McQueen. Kate has a lovely sense of style and her statuesque frame pulled off the look perfectly. I specifically loved the laced sleeves and cinched in waste. The look was traditional yet glam. For her makeup, Kate did it herself. She desired for William to recognize her. With her hair in soft waves, donned with a sparking tiara she borrowed from the Queen, Kate looked effortless.The tiara was made by Cartier.

With the bride looking stunning and the crowd sporting the traditional English hats, (shout-out to Philip Treacy) the event was a milestone of classic meeting modernity.

I am placing my bets: wedding dresses like this are going to fly off the shelves!

x

"Summer Lady"

By the end of this very week, final exams will be completed and summer will be simply alive. Focusing so much on the onset of spring, especially during that tragic winter, I lacked the proper preparation of the sweetness to the summer heat.

Thus, I have compiled a general list of tips for this season:

1. Wear statement earrings. Whether they be hoops or chandelier, slick your hair back and sport these gems.

2. Asymmetrical necklines. Not only are they incredibly flattering on many body types, but they were seen all over the runways.

3. Metallic fabric. Some of designers heaviest hitters took this look down the runway. If it is good enough for them, it is good enough for us. This look can be worn in demure ways or as the entire ensemble, as a pop of flash or compiling an entire dress.

4. Bold blocks of color. It's summer, so of course bright colors like electric blue are stamped all over the place. It's the geometric shapes of the colors on the fabric that takes the cake for originality this season.

5. Tribal or ethnic. These looks can be expressed in either prints or embellishments. What a great look for summer!

6. Fringe. Going out on the town? Try to sport this look! Donning it in either a long dress or short frock, this is the epitome of glamour.

7. Sheer. Not used as a peep-show technique. However, try layering a sheer colored fabric over an ensemble, preferably with a pattern, to enhance your fashion I.Q.

8.Platform wedges. Go back to days of the Spice Girls. Wedges are back, and the more 70s reminiscent they are, the better.

Now that I have explained the summer know-how, there is no need to fret! Study away! I got your summer trends covered.

xx

eXpress yourself

My uncle is a photographer, and as I was recently out in Ohio for holiday, Nicole and I ventured to his studio. We had such a fabulous time dressing up, taking great shots and simply having fun being ourselves.

I am no model, although I have been addicted to America's Next Top Model since the first season it aired. However, I feel like there are some general things I could recommend. (advice coming from Tyra, my uncle and general techniques noticed through years of magazine flipping)

1. Work your eyes: It is important to pierce the lens. You don't want to look half-asleep.
2. Try to look natural: It is not necessary to over-pout your lips or things along these lines. You are beautiful without making a 'plastic surgery face.'
3. Posture: Watch your posture. Of course for some high fashion shots, a deconstructed look is very appropriate, but usually this is something that should be kept in mind.
4. Preparation: Get a good nights sleep. This is something that we should do for our health, let alone attempting model status in photos.
5. Mix it up: Smile. Serious. Look Away. Pierce the Lens. Do Something Weird. Be Symmetrical. Play With Your Hair. Laugh. (you get the point).
6. Let there be light: Know where the light is. You will want to expose at least a portion of your face to this source. This goes for a studio session or frolicking outside. Know where the light is!
7. Have fun: Please, don't take yourself too seriously.

xx

Courtesy of Mark Poulton

Nicole and I- Courtesy of Mark Poulton

Original Picture

BEE Ladylike

Ah, although some days lead to disappointment, there have been a few ideal days of spring scents, sunshine and buds on newly enlivened trees. I can't wait to wear skirts without tights, tanks without a layered sweater and sunglasses every moment.

My mom and me at Cabaret Night- original photo

A fashion trend found on spring runways from Victoria Beckham to Tibi to Jason Wu was the ladylike ensembles of yesteryear. These looks were quasi-retro and beyond feminine (think ruffles, full-skirts, etc). I myself excited to bring back a look that, in my eyes, never goes out of style.

Last weekend I attended the Hershey Area Playhouse's annual Cabaret Night. An event put together by three amazing people, one including my mother, raises funds for the non-profit to function. Held at the Hershey Country Club, the ritziest of the ritz attend.

I sported an H&M dress of a lovely orange (not my typical choice in palate). But, it was ladylike. Unlike some women of the evening, I did not want to expose too much figure or skin. The dress, layered with ruffles, was just the silhouette I wanted.

Cabaret Night- original photo

This brings me to another minor notion: dress for your age. This is a look that can surpass all ages. However, the ultra-formfitting ensembles are much more risky to pull off.

Nonetheless, it was a lovely evening, and I felt endlessly confident in my new spring get-up. Ladies take notes and be ladies.

xx

The Za Za Zoe

I would like to think all my fashion inspiration comes from myself solely. And often times I do find myself with ideas new to me. However, there is a cluster of ladies that contribute to my fashion addiction. There are a few women that I would trust immensely to dress me.

Rachel Zoe, stylist, is one of those people. Although she can be found in celebrity tabloids with an endless host of garbage, I find her love of clothing contagious. She is incredibly knowledgeable on more than just current trends; she is a fashion historian. She is also the stylist for Anne Hathaway, Demi Moore and Kate Beckinsale to name a few.

A receiver of her daily Rachel Zoe Report emails, I read them for all their relevant insider information. Her fashion reports can also be found on her website http://www.rachelzoe.com/. You can browse the site for past reports and sign up for the daily alerts.

Take fashion advice from someone who knows best and feel the style za za zoo with Rachel Zoe.
x

Rachel Zoe

Crushing on Coral

Spring is just around the corner, and the layers of winter sweaters and scarves are stored away. As temperatures begin to rise, winter makeup must also be exchanged for spring looks.

Although you can rock the red all year round, lips shades that are coral or mango-like are a much better option. Pair a turquoise, gold or purple liner for the complete look.

Coral Lips (original photo)

Allure magazine ranked mango lip shades as one of seven top spring color trends. This look is surprisingly fresh and can be worn on all skin types. However, if you have fair skin, you should avoid anything too orange. You can up that particular hue if your skin is more olive or dark.

Yes, that is me to the right, pursing my lips, attempting to highlight the shade that I tried. This color is a Sephora brand lipstick called Coral Coquette. It was only $12 and will last all summer!

With the shade, as seen to the right, I only applied a small amount to start then finished with a clear gloss. However, for a more evening look, I could apply more lipstick without the gloss to create a matte coral lip.

The link to purchase the sephora shade is:
http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P203600&categoryId=C17365&shouldPaginate=true

Adapting to the change in seasons is necessary for such things as our clothes and even hair color. Why not our makeup? Lighten it up for the spring and try this flirty look!

xx

Oscar Obsession



Oscars 2011 in L'Wren Scott

Although the Oscars have long since passed, I am still incredibly impressed by one particular garment worn by Amy Adams.

The combination of color is everything. Inventively, she paired a navy sequence dress with rich green jewelry and red lips. With her naturally vibrant hair, the look by L'Wren Scott was sealed to perfection.

Surprisingly, this look did not get very much attention. As I sat down to watch E!'s Fashion Police, I was astonished that other "safe" and "mediocre" options were highlighted, yet Ms. Adams was not mentioned.

In addition to Amy Adams, Michelle Williams looked radiant in a demure Chanel gown. The detailing on this dress was to die for. The color was perfect as well, matching so delicately the porcelin tone of her skin and hair.

Thus, I am stating that these were some of the best looks of the night!

Vroom VROOM

Despite an obvious assumption that I am a certain way, I have maintained a likeliness for the urban-glam-motorcyle-chic look. Wearing rings that donned skulls or sporting boots with chains and rough hardware, I love this look.

mint green polish and motorcycle inspired bag (original photo)

Attempting to branch out, for many months last year I tried to incorporate more color into my wardrobe, even sporting a cream-colored purse with boho gold details. Although appropriate for summer, I quickly yearned for the tough look of black leather.

Last weekend I ventured to Forever 21 to treat myself. I indulged, finally, in the bag of my dreams. With the smooth black strap around my shoulder and across my body, I feel like I am home.  Paired with my black boots, my go-to look is back.



However, may I say, I do not wear this with all black and rough items. To balance the roughness, I pair it with mint green nails and a feminine top.

Although I don't have an urge to ride a Harley of my very own, I love the motorcycle-chic look. Black is classic, and the flawless combination of rough and soft will always satisfy my fashion appetite.

x

Styl-vention

In style, because it is artistic expression, there are few things that really get under my skin.

Disclaimer: I am not the type to judge people on their clothes...

However, there are some pretty bad things happening out there that I feel must be addressed. The list below are items/looks that I am not a fan of; this is not meant to offend.

1. Ugh, Ugg boots. Wearing these furry foes will make you seem apart of the crowd. With every other pair of feet donning them, wouldn't you rather wear something that makes you stand out? Try a set of riding boots instead.

2. I am not a fan of floral couches, grandma reminiscent textiles and such. Thus, I am, in accordance, not a fan of Vera Bradley. Why not wear a bright hued patent leather clutch?

Originality? (original pic)

3. Leggings as pants. They aren't.

4. North Face fleeces. Yes, I suppose they are warm, but again, everyone wears them. A cute menswear blazer with a floral or printed scarf is a better alternative for spring.

5. Being orange. Embrace your natural skin tones. If this is just too hard to bare, try a gradual self-tanner. Hey, we all love the Jersey Shore, but there is a reason these "characters" have become household names: we are able to laugh at them. And, it is not healthy, as we all know by now, to expose your delicate skin to harmful rays.

6. Following "rules." Yes, you can mix brown and black. Yes, you can mix metals. Yes, you can wear white all year round. Yes, you can wear suede in the summer. Many of these out dated opinions have actually sparked trends.

7. Balance. Be mindful of your patterns and proportions. For example, don't wear a short skin-tight leopard dress. The print is sexy enough; you don't need all of that. Also, only one stand out pattern at a time, no head to toe anything. Less is more.

8. I feel like this should be obvious, but super-short skirts are always a no.

9. It is fine to play around with your highlights but looking like a skunk is not natural. The point of highlights is create a certain natural look, just as makeup is suppose to enhance your given look. Don't go overboard ladies.

10. Too much makeup. Foundation is suppose to match your skin and eye makeup is suppose to enhance your stare. Yes, you can have fun with colors. But, again, less is more.

These are just my opinions, pet-peeves. I applaud, however, all of those who exhibit individual style and aren't afraid to push the envelope. Bravo!

Chai Please

Attempting not to get too far ahead of myself, I had to post this fall 2011 RTW collection. It is not even spring yet, but I have become inspired by the looks for this coming fall.

Richard Chai Fall 2011 Love Collection

Richard Chai's Love collection took my breath away. As described by Chai, “This is the girl who rolls out of bed and throws on her boyfriend’s coat, but in a refined way.” I love the idea of effortlessness because, ladies, it is usually apparent when you are trying too hard.

WWD reported of the collection, "This is Chai’s power girl, with her strong, broad Eighties shoulders and boxy, mannish silhouettes, but with a side of romance." He balances ideally the seamless combination of menswear and flirty feminine silhouettes.

Richard Chai Fall 2011 Love Collection

To further his creative genius, he chose to layer items with well tailored coats and vests. Layering is one of my favorite parts about cold weather fashions, thus my excitement for this particular collection.

The look above perfectly reflects the overall theme of the show. Taking a masculine print, such as narrow stripes, and placing it on a whimsical fit maintains his aesthetic. 

I also love this top, ballerina-esk, with neutral tones and lovely sparkle.


Richard Chai, je t'aime. All I can say is: obsessed.

White OUT

Band of Outsiders Spring 2011

It's is minimal, and a hit from the Spring 2011 New York fashion shows: white.

To be chic during the greatly anticipated spring season, dress in a color that will make you tanner without trying. A look of all white is clean and quite flattering. Pairing this trend with soft metallic accessories, you will definitely win some style points.

I am particularly obsessed with the Band of Outsiders look to the left for those lovely menswear flats. Due to the ensemble's feminine flow and  the shoes' pretty metallic tone, the look does not turn too masculine.

To further up your fashion I.Q., pair this spring obsession with another: bold colors. Place fabulous hot pink lipstick on your pout or electric hued shoes on your feet to make a statement.

I'm blushing!

As I return from the cold and embrace the heat, I notice my cheeks are perfectly rosy. The winter breeze seems to declare upon my face the most ideal blush definitions. Oh, so this is where I naturally blush.

Ladies, blush is key. It contours your face and is intended to compliment your skin tone. However, many don't wear it, or worse, they wear way too much.

Advice: the next time you come in from the cold, look in the mirror. Recall the patches of skin that don a pinkish or darker tint.

Yves Saint Laurent Creme Temptation

Next, the perfect product is needed to produce such a mimicking effect. I recommend a creme blush; it creates a dewy look that appears more natural. It should be dabbed, preferably, on the apples of the cheek (the part that is extenuated when you smile) or rather where your cheek bone is...

Let's not be afraid to blush or get cheeky! x

Parfum

One of the easiest tricks to feeling confident in a rush. Spritzing it on as you run out the door can put a look together.

An obsession of mine, perfume can, and should, be fun. However, overwhelmed with the multitude of possibilities, with a celeb becoming a face of a new campaign constantly, finding the right match for your personality can be challenging.

Lolita Lempicka

Problem solved. I happen to know the type of scent  I usually default to: a woody and oriental blend with hints of sandalwood and ivy leaves. My all-time favorite is produced by a small French brand, Lolita Lempicka. A whimsacle design, this perfume, to my nose, can simply not be beaten. The company, besides its signature scent, has released other limited edition scents.

To help the perfume neophyte in the search for the perfect aroma, I beauty experts Marie Claire Magazine and Sephora.

- http://www.marieclaire.com/fragrance-finder/

-http://sephora.com/browse/me/index.jhtml?categoryId=

A simple step to elegance, finding the perfect perfume might just be the thing you need to get out of a beauty slump. And although the price tag on a good perfume can be daunting, look at it as an investment. With regular use and proper storage ( a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight), a bottle of your 'fav' scent can last for years.

x

Location, Location, Location

Let the places you've gone inspire you.

Christian Louboutin Fifre ankle boots

During my time abroad, I loved to people watch. In regards to style, no one is as effortlessly chic as the Parisian women and men. Their sense of color, proportion and trends constantly blew my mind.

While abroad, a notable trend in footwear was boots that were "Napoleonic-esk." Parisian women were drawing upon their country's history. Furthermore, they donned military style coats, provoking the same vibe. In order to avoid looking to "costumey," mix one or two of these items with skinny jeans or a modern piece for balance.
 

On occasion, I still attempt to recreate the looks I found abroad. This desire may be ignited by a smell or a feeling that takes me back to a memory of that time. Regardless, I hope that you let your location inspire you. If your current locale is simply uninspiring, take yourself back to a time and place when you were.

Photo taken from Parc de Belleville April 2008 (original pic)

Paris will forever inspire my wardrobe...Paris je t'aime x

Rouge

Paint the town red! Oh wait, no! I mean paint your lips red!

Photo taken in Soho May 2010 (original pic)

In the cold winter months, most of us, except our fellow 'fake-and-bakers,' are dealing with a lack of tan. As a fair-skinned person that strays from skin cancer catalysts, I have attempted techniques to enliven my look.

By far, one of the most stunning things to me is porcelain skin with a red lip. Cosmetic companies make hues of red for all skin tones. However, there is simply something marvelous about the combination of fair with red. To really hit home the look, do not wear much else makeup than the red. (dust on a light blush and one coat of mascara).

The entire look can be accomplished by sticking to clothes of complimentary tones, such as black and white. Don't make your lips compete with your  clothes. Wearing basic colors with this fearless look brings everything together.

(original pic)

Bonne chance (good luck) with this daring look! x

oh baby it's cold outside

Oh baby it's cold outside is an understatement. With temperatures well below freezing, it is hard to find motivation to step out the door. Although it is frigid, life must go on.

In order to deal with the winter blues, I recommend adding a certain something to your wardrobe to warm you up: a scarf. Their history dates back to ancient Rome, used not for protection from the elements but for cleanliness. Regardless, it is time to fight back against the cold.

(original pic)

To have fun with this concept, I recommend playing with color. We often don coats of a blander color to match our attire for a season. To add some spunk, wear scarves of lush purples and dark greens, vibrant reds and pastel pinks. Don't shy away from patterns either. And don't be afraid of chunkiness. The chunkier the better. I recently found a scarf at Express that I could literally wrap around my head. I don't know how I survived without it.

Enliven your wardrobe without a huge deficit to your beautiful little wallet. Forever 21 and New York & Company boast knitted scarves for under $20. And this is not just a winter trend. The second the trees have buds, I am headed for some softer, more dainty, options to sport with a spring jacket. A style that is not form sensitive, scarves are here to stay.

Oh baby, it's not so cold outside anymore.

Intro

(original pic)

Bonjour! Bienvenue!

This blog's purpose is to propose inspirational ideas, photos and videos by ways of fashion. The way you present yourself should be fun and exciting, a no holds bar operation. I will draw upon the seasons, the runways, my life and mood and general obnoxious thoughts on the subject. Let's leave no room for imitation, simply take the daily beauties around you to thrive in the clothes that you wrap your bodies in everyday. The point here is not to dive into a pool of shallow shopping talk. The point is to be creative with what you have. Be INSPIRED!!

Bisous x