Shirt: American Eagle Cardigan: Dynamite Skirt & Tank Top: Charlotte Russe Necklace: JmundoDesigns Bracelet: Headband worn as wrap bracelet from Walmart Shoes: Aldo Lipstick: Estee Lauder "Sunstone" Legwarmers & Earrings: Gift
Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
Friday, 26 August 2011
Monday, 8 August 2011
Monday Review: Wedding and Interview
So we're back from the interview and the wedding, had a day of rest, and now I'm making myself get stuff done. On a frustrating note, Derek didn't get his visa approval right away. Everything went well - they told us that everything looked good (apparently we convinced them that we were married and that we made enough money) but the only issue was "establishing domicile." That means that we have to prove that we are in fact moving to the states. That seems so stupid to me, because why would we have gone through all that trouble to NOT move? (Guess I should have worn something red, white, and blue :P) Haha. Anyway it's quite easy, we just have to send in a few more papers via mail - we don't have to go back to Quebec, thank God. It should be fast, as well, so we should still be moving soon (mid September, perhaps?). So all in all, a very good outcome, but quite frustrating after spending five hours sitting in a building knowing you have to be in Traverse City in less than twenty four hours.
Dress: Express Shoes: Aldo Necklace: Designs By Annika Headband: Feather Your Nest
We did, in fact, make it to Traverse City in time, and my friend Sharayah's wedding was so lovely. It was incredibly emotional watching her tie the knot, and seeing her so happy. Her classic fashion sense was evident in the sand-colored tuxedos she chose for the men, the hints of color to her ensemble (blush colored sash and veil) and amazing hairdo. I will have to share more and better pictures when I stumble across them. As to the matter of what I wore, the above was not my carefully planned outfit. My carefully planned outfit is actually in Quebec, where I left it, hanging up in our hotel room. -_- The dress I ended up wearing is this gorgeous, colorful number, and I received it from my in-laws for Christmas. It actually ended up being a better choice than my original plan, so hey, not all a loss. I tend to purchase black dresses, but I don't like wearing black to a wedding. Other dresses of mine have a white base with a print over it, but I also don't like wearing white to a wedding, so this dress will actually probably be a staple for attending weddings. It's celebratory, formal, but still very wearable. I can't say the same for my stilettos, but I fail-danced the night away in them regardless. Also worth mentioning, Sharayah managed to seat us probably with the best people...ever. It was the most successful seating chart in the history of seating charts. Most likely.
We gave the bride and groom somewhat of a creative present, but I won't tell you what it is in case they haven't opened it yet. Maybe in a couple of days I will. Well, little hands of panic are closing around my throat as I contemplate the workload before me, so I better get crackin'. Just try not to think about what it's going to take in order to be packed up and ready to move across the continent in a month, Elizabeth...
Wednesday, 3 August 2011
Would you let the husband of this woman into your country?
Shirt: Dress worn as top from Charlotte Russe Skirt and Belt: I think from JC Penny Heels: Payless Bracelet: Necklace worn as wrap bracelet from Ben Moss Jewelers
I won't be doing any posts for a few days since I'll be out of town, so while I'm gone, be sure to read the awesome guest post that my friend Abby did yesterday.
Anyway, wish us luck!
Monday, 1 August 2011
Still need summer swimwear? Gorgeous suits on sale!
Eversave.com is having a promotion which will last for three more days, where if you spend $20 on SwimwearForMe.com, you get a $40 value. There are some really beautiful Badgley Mischka swimsuits over there which I highly recommend checking out. I'm currently in love with that middle swimsuit in black. Very sophisticated. See the deal by clicking here.
Still need summer swimwear? Gorgeous Badgley Mischka pieces on sale http://www.eversave.com/online/swimwear-me?sourceid=68762 by ThatLadyWithTheDog featuring a party hat
Still need summer swimwear? Gorgeous Badgley Mischka pieces on sale http://www.eversave.com/online/swimwear-me?sourceid=68762 by ThatLadyWithTheDog featuring a party hat
Friday, 29 July 2011
Today...I played paper dolls. Without the dolls.
Today I decided to "try out" Polyvore.com, which for me, means becoming immediately addicted/obsessed and tooling around on it all day. It's exactly like playing paper dolls, but with an endless amount of clothing, and without the dumb dolls. I've ALWAYS wanted something where I could put clothes together. I hoped for a computer program like the rich girl had in the movie Clueless, which put together an outfit for her every morning. Well, Polyvore will have to do. It's even practical in that you can find clothing items you already own, and see what other people would pair it with. Instant inspiration! Not to mention, the most fun you'll have since the last time you played with paper dolls.
To see a breakdown of the items showcased in the above picture, check out the set on Polyvore. My account name there is ThatLadyWithTheDog. If you have one or get one, let me know! I'll check out your ensembles.
Thursday, 28 July 2011
Layering, Dressing For Your Body Type, and OOTD
This outfit of the day shows what I wore for some quick family pictures taken the other day. My husband's sister, Sabrina, is leaving for college TODAY and we are sure going to miss her. Such an exciting time for her, though, I really hope she has a blast as she embarks on this new adventure.
Oddly enough, this was what I was planning on wearing before I knew we were doing pictures - I had decided I better do a more polished look for an OOTD post, since this has been my primary go-to style and I haven't shown it to my readers yet. When I found out about the pictures, I freaked out and tried on tons of things in my closet, but ended up wearing my original plan, anyway. This was even the first time I wore this ensemble! Sometimes, what you picture in your head actually does work.
So the big deal about this outfit is that the adorable "top" that I'm wearing is actually a dress! That's something I've been wanting to try, to get more mileage out of my wardrobe, and this was the first time I've tried it. In the following picture I bent over to try and show what the top of the dress is like - it isn't tucked in and bloused, it's basically just a long, hanging ruffle of sorts.
Skirt: RW & co. Shirt: dress worn as top from American Eagle Shrug: don't remember, and I took the tag out Belt: The Limited Wrap Bracelet: headband worn as bracelet from Walmart Necklace:Jmundodesigns @ Etsy
I really love that dress (worn as a top) from American Eagle. I'll have to show a picture of it by itself so that you can see it. I think it's a good example of shopping for your body type. Normally I'm not hugely into shopping for your body type, I don't know why that is, and it's probably bad. My body type is either pear or rectangle. My hips are the largest part of me, so I'm supposed to select pieces that emphasize my upper body to balance myself out. This dress has a soft, hanging "ruffle" that falls to just above my natural waist line. Meanwhile, the rest of the dress is a jersey fabric that is form fitting in the waist with more of an A-line skirt. It makes my chest look more normal sized (read here: makes it look as if I actually have one) and my waist look tiny. In other words, it gives me that ideal "hour glass figure." I feel divine in this dress, and I bought it in two colors. I guess I should shop for my body type more often, eh?
Family pictures coming soon.
P.S. Want to start shopping for your body type, or looking for dresses to layer? The very cute blog, Kendi Everday, is having a terrific giveaway of a $200 gift card to Karen Kane! All you have to do is comment on her blog post. Go get on that, folks.
Monday, 25 July 2011
Drool List: Comfortably Girly, and Giveaways!
This is a list of all the things I am currently hankering for. Join me in drooling, why don'tcha'?
(Click to see full-size!)
Most of my shoes have heels, the reason being that whenever I go shoe-shopping, those are the ones that look the prettiest! However, high-heels aren't that comfortable. This is not true of wedges. I actually find them to be more comfortable than flats, although perhaps that's because I don't have good arches in my feet. Unfortunately, the only wedges I own are ancient and from Payless. Time for an update. I love these, but maybe I should get something that would match more than these stripey ones would?
2. Floral Flats $28
Even my pair of "flats" have a little bitty wedge heel on them. Honestly. I should be ashamed of myself. So, I'm in the market for some real flats, and these lovely floral ones are truly beautiful. As impractical as white shoes can be, one of my favorite, most-worn shoes ever were a pair of white sequinned slip-ons. They definitely quickly turned into more of a cream color, but I still loved them. I even think these would match a lot of clothes...
3. Flower Sandals by Chelsea Crew $50
Since I don't yet own a pair of cute sandals, I'm stuck wearing flip-flops in the summer time. These look like a great mix of sandal and flat, and with how they strap on, sturdy enough even for bike riding. Plus, they're gorgeous.
4. Racerback Tunic from Threadsence $27
I love how this is light, airy, sporty, and romantic all at the same time. Also, not only does it have stripes on it, but the stripes are brown (AKA best color ever). So it's pretty much hard to get any better than that.
5. Whistle Necklace from Forever21 $3.80
Functional necklaces are the coolness. They're extra rad if you add additional charms onto them. At just under $4, this is the perfect piece to start with.
6. Striped Romper $13.50
Rompers are incredibly in right now, and I will probably cry when this fashion trend goes away. Get in on this action right now! Dressing has never been any easier. As simple to throw on as a dress, but far more functional, and at under $14, this is THE ONE. I was going to make myself one out of more sensible (read here: less fun) black, but I doubt I can get comfortable fabric for less than $14. I need to get my booty to a Forever21 ASAP.
7. Never-Ending Beaded Bag $65
No drool list is complete without my current fanatical obsession. (As seen in this previous post.) This adorable "clutch" bag is deceptively, and appropriately, huge. I am currently trying to get someone to custom-make it for me on a craft site for a lot less. So far, no dice.
8. Lacey Shorts $28
Lace-trimmed shorts for wearing alone or as a tomboyish, practical slip substitute under a skirt or dress, seems like a fantastic idea, and I plan to get on board with that. It occurred to me that they would also make a super cute and unique swimsuit cover-up. These ones are darling, but you can also make your own by trimming white fabric shorts or boxers with lace.
9. Jade Maxi Skirt from Ruche $35
Maxi skirts are wayyy more comfortable than jeans, and you don't even have to shave to wear them! They are also surprisingly cool in the summer. This one, in its thirst-quenching, drinkable turquoise shade, is completely lust-worthy. The fold-over waist also makes for supreme comfort. Although this is priced quite reasonably, you could also try making your own, using this tutorial (just make your skirt a bit longer for maxi length). I just doubt I would find a color of fabric I would love as much as this one from Ruche.
10. Umbrellas Tank $29
I have a thing for umbrellas. This breezy tank top is ah-dore-ah-ble! It's a quirky, cheerful way to kiss summer goodbye.
P.S. Feeling blue because you can't afford any of that terrific stuff? Well how about a give-a-way to cheer you up? I love give aways where all you have to do is comment or like something on Facebook. Sure, sometimes the odds are as steep as 500 to one, but as I blithely tell Derek, the odds just simply don't apply to me. It's a happy thought, frankly, and I suggest you adopt it!
This adorable fashion blog that I am currently addicted to, Rose A La Mode, is having one of those give aways, for TWO pairs of fantastically fantastic Hunter's boots! So go enter!
P.P.S. If one giveaway isn't enough for you (greedy you) check out the giveaway going on at The Man Repeller blog, here. Not only is she giving away one super sexy dress, but the giveaway post is one of the funniest pieces of blogging comedy I've ever seen. As long as you're not easily offended, go read it nooooow.
Wednesday, 20 July 2011
Harry Potter and Fashion
Last night, husband and I went to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2. Wow. It was incredible. It ruined me for life, in so many ways. Haha. As we were getting ready to go to the movie, I said to Derek, "This is probably going to be the most epic film we will ever see in our lifetime." Naturally, we subtly dressed to match certain characters. I love the fashion in HP - especially in the later films - because it is so achievable. Anyone can dress like the characters with clothes they already have lying around, or that they can purchase cheaply. Neither Derek nor I have a ton of pieces that match the last two movies, so our look alike-ing is by no means perfect. What do you think?
Wednesday, 13 July 2011
Hairstyles That Inspire Me
I realized after I posted my last entry, "A Walk Down Hair...I mean memory lane," it could have seemed as though I was advising people to follow in my footsteps. That was not my intent, as I have made a lot of hair choices that have been less than ideal, that I would not encourage people to emulate. I was showing the past pictures for fun, and also wanted to make the point that change can be good. To give better proof to my argument than my often hair-raising pics did, here is a compilation of hairstyles (usually not my own) which inspire me...and might just inspire you!
1... Short hair, to me, is beautiful, and so feminine. Long hair is safer and typically considered by the populace to be more girly, but whenever I see a young woman with a short hairstyle, I always stop and stare (enviously). Long hair is very beautiful, but I feel like what's beautiful is the hair, and it takes the attention off of glorious, radiant you. Short hair shows off your facial features, it makes your eyes look huge, your bones look delicate, it just shines this big beautiful spotlight on your face. It's also super easy to care for, and it looks good with everything. For Success: try and keep it soft. A little volume or swoopiness goes a long way to keeping this look ulta-feminine. (Though I love short hair, this look didn't work for me because my hair is very coarse and stiff, with TONS of cowlicks on my head. It made one mean faux-hawk, but it refused to lay down flat and dociley, as this look requires.) Take your face shape into account, you may need a little more length framing your cheeks (it can still be super short in the back) or side bangs. Also think about the work. For example, I found that I had to shower every morning because sleeping on a pixie cut makes it stand up funny. If your hair is more soft, a simple misting (if anything) might work. Also, I felt compelled to wear more makeup, and always keep my clothes very girly, to compensate for the lack of locks.
2 I did shave my head at one point, partially just to try it, partially to push myself out of my comfort zone and to not be vain, but also partially because I was addicted to the movie V for Vendetta starring Natalie Portman, who looks ridiculously gorgeous with a shaved head. She is one of the world's most beautiful women with a head of hair, yet she amazed me even further without hair. I feel like it did for her what short hair does for a girl with a pixie-ish face. It made her incredible. That's not really what it did for me, but I did have a very cool faux-hawk once it grew out a little bit. For Success: Do not do this unless you are comfortable (and usually) have very short hair. Considerations for having super short hair should be taken into account here, even more so.
3 Bobs are beautiful, flattering, and very modern. They come in every style and shape to suit tastes from edgy to conservative. Whether it be an A-line bob, a basic above-shoulder haircut, or an asymmetrical bob, you just really cannot go wrong with a bob. This is definitely the hair cut I would have if I could get my hair to straighten or be really curly (it sort of is the hair cut I have right now, regardless). I think it is the best haircut I've ever seen on both Rihanna and Gwyneth Paltrow. I love it when they're really sleek, have a lot of swing, and sometimes are a little bit messy. Super curly is also an adorable bob look. There are so many different ways you can wear the same bob! Gwyneth's is even long enough to put in a ponytail. I envy the fact that her hair straightens. For Success: Consult your face shape, and whether you need or want any kind of bangs. Think about whether you want it long enough to put into a ponytail or not. Think about how else you will wear it, i.e. straightened or not, parted in the middle or on the side, messy and artistic or smooth. Research the different kinds and communicate with your hair dresser.
4.... Short bangs are cute, low maintenance, and a way to soften up your look. They need virtually no styling, and make pulling your hair back into a ponytail with flattering detail as easy as can be! For Success: Realize that they will take a long time to grow out. Make sure that you don't have a cowlick at your forehead, and that your hair isn't too stiff when short - mine was both, and so my little short bangs wouldn't lay flat! Have a stylist cut them - don't cut your own. It is way too easy to make them too short.
5 Above-shoulder length wavy/curly hair, also technically a bob. This is elegant and easy. It's also my favorite look for the hair-chamelion Victoria Beckham. Since she has an exquisite face, she is a bomb shell with a pixie cut, but I think that this look softens up an expression that typically looks a little bit harsh to me. It gives her infallible old Hollywood glamor, too. For Success: Keep it polished. It's still very styled and smooth even though it's curly and low-maintenance. I also love the backward-direction of the styling. Put lots of mouse in there and keep the curls/waves big and frizz free. Don't forget to add a flattering side part!
6.... Oh man. I just love afros. They are so BEAUTIFUL and natural! They look beautiful when they are healthy and shiny. Typically, the more defined the curl, the better. I prefer them in a shape that isn't a huge sphere - I think less of a globe is more modern nowadays. It can even be parted down the middle and hang near your shoulders. And look, it can even be worn by white women! Sign me up, holy gosh. For Success: Give it a definite shape. It doesn't have to be a sphere, and the curls don't have to be tightly-packed, but don't let it became some weirdly layered frizzy flyaway past-the-shoulders thing. The yoga mom organic look. You know what I'm talking about. Keep it groomed, clean, and healthy. Don't let it get streaked with grey hairs, either. But most importantly of all...embrace your beautiful curly hair, and know that here's at least one sad girl who envies you. ;D
7 Red hair. It's my favorite hair color, in any shade and in any style...red hair is just the best. I mean there's really not a lot of debate here, guys. For Success: If you have red hair...ROCK IT LIKE IT'S HOT. Because it is. If you don't, find a shade that will complement your skin tone (try asking your stylist). Also, in my personal opinion, don't go too dark or too close to brown. It might be easier to pull off, but it's not what we adore about eye-catching red, is it? On the flipside, keep it a very natural looking red. Only a select few can pull off a vibrant true red.
8 Hair pulled back severely off the face is rarely very flattering. Braids (think french braids starting at a deep side-part that frame your face) are extremely in this season. They are so "in" that I almost don't want to do them...because everyone who knows anything is doing them. But they are so darn flattering, I can't pass them up! My husband loves when I pull my hair back with a braid. Also, think outside the box. Do two braids and put your hair in a low gather or bun instead of a ponytail. There's something more nostalgic and feminine about it, don't you think? For Success: Keep the braid neat. Don't allow too many flyaways. It might take a few times to get it right. This look is very worth the extra couple of minutes it takes to put your hair back - and it's surprisingly easy.
9. Creamy blonde hair is my second favorite hair color. Kate Hudson usually sports this beautiful color, and the movie How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days showcases it (I also love how she dresses in khaki colors a lot to complement it). For Success: Use the lightest color of Loreal dye-at-home hair color, or, better yet, go to a professional salon. Do your touch ups religiously! Shampoo and condition with product for blonde hair. If it is blue or purple tinted, don't use it every time and watch your hair closely...mine got a pink tinge after using purple shampoo for too long!
10... Long brown hair with bangs is a look I always love. It's so simple and looks smashing on anyone. As a plus side, you need so little makeup with it! This sounds kinda' bad, but if you want to hide your face/self, this is a good way to do it. Just make the bangs extra long, and your hair extra voluminous. This also looks adorable with shorter bangs or pulled back into a ponytail. Zooey Deschanel is the poster child of this look. For Success: Make sure your hair is thick, or add voluminous layers. Don't make the bangs too long if you like the spotlight to be on yours eyes. Really, though, there's no way to fail at this look. It's fool proof.
11... Long hair with body (especially brown). This is a bit of a continuation from no. 10, but you don't need bangs for this one. I love hair with volume. It doesn't have to be curly or even wavy, though you will need layers if it isn't. There's so much movement, it's so forgiving and flattering. It can be polished or downright frumpy, and it still looks awesome! For Success: I prefer a light to medium brown for this look, for whatever reason. Add volume with curlers, layers, product, and fluffing with your fingers. Blow dry with a diffuser to keep hair light, airy, and not pin-straight.
12 Super straight, sleek, shining hair. I prefer this in a medium brown color, and it looks best if your hair is thick. It should also be cut to have a subtle but polished shape. Pantene commercials seem to showcase this style a lot. For Success: Your hair needs to be extremely healthy for this look. Split ends need to NOT exist. Even if your hair is very straight, you may still need to straighten it. I recommend having gloss-coating color put on your hair, and treat your hair to deep conditioning.
13.. Updos. I like them smooth and elegant or messy and romantic. Keep them full for best results. If your hair is too short to go back much, curl it and pin up the curls to fake it (as mine is on the first updo). For Success: Do whatever suits your taste. It should look good from every angle, and it's best if the pins don't show. If you have dark hair, add a white peacock feather or a glittering faux diamond hair clip. If you have light hair, try a blue peacock feather or black glass bling. To add volume if your hair isn't very long or thick, tease hair backwards in sections before wrapping it around in a bun. To finish it off smoothly, lightly brush the exposed parts with a short-bristled brush before wrapping it up.
So what do you guys think? What are YOUR favorite hairstyles? Do you/have you had one of these and either hate it or love it? Share your thoughts!
(Click for full size)
1... Short hair, to me, is beautiful, and so feminine. Long hair is safer and typically considered by the populace to be more girly, but whenever I see a young woman with a short hairstyle, I always stop and stare (enviously). Long hair is very beautiful, but I feel like what's beautiful is the hair, and it takes the attention off of glorious, radiant you. Short hair shows off your facial features, it makes your eyes look huge, your bones look delicate, it just shines this big beautiful spotlight on your face. It's also super easy to care for, and it looks good with everything. For Success: try and keep it soft. A little volume or swoopiness goes a long way to keeping this look ulta-feminine. (Though I love short hair, this look didn't work for me because my hair is very coarse and stiff, with TONS of cowlicks on my head. It made one mean faux-hawk, but it refused to lay down flat and dociley, as this look requires.) Take your face shape into account, you may need a little more length framing your cheeks (it can still be super short in the back) or side bangs. Also think about the work. For example, I found that I had to shower every morning because sleeping on a pixie cut makes it stand up funny. If your hair is more soft, a simple misting (if anything) might work. Also, I felt compelled to wear more makeup, and always keep my clothes very girly, to compensate for the lack of locks.
2 I did shave my head at one point, partially just to try it, partially to push myself out of my comfort zone and to not be vain, but also partially because I was addicted to the movie V for Vendetta starring Natalie Portman, who looks ridiculously gorgeous with a shaved head. She is one of the world's most beautiful women with a head of hair, yet she amazed me even further without hair. I feel like it did for her what short hair does for a girl with a pixie-ish face. It made her incredible. That's not really what it did for me, but I did have a very cool faux-hawk once it grew out a little bit. For Success: Do not do this unless you are comfortable (and usually) have very short hair. Considerations for having super short hair should be taken into account here, even more so.
3 Bobs are beautiful, flattering, and very modern. They come in every style and shape to suit tastes from edgy to conservative. Whether it be an A-line bob, a basic above-shoulder haircut, or an asymmetrical bob, you just really cannot go wrong with a bob. This is definitely the hair cut I would have if I could get my hair to straighten or be really curly (it sort of is the hair cut I have right now, regardless). I think it is the best haircut I've ever seen on both Rihanna and Gwyneth Paltrow. I love it when they're really sleek, have a lot of swing, and sometimes are a little bit messy. Super curly is also an adorable bob look. There are so many different ways you can wear the same bob! Gwyneth's is even long enough to put in a ponytail. I envy the fact that her hair straightens. For Success: Consult your face shape, and whether you need or want any kind of bangs. Think about whether you want it long enough to put into a ponytail or not. Think about how else you will wear it, i.e. straightened or not, parted in the middle or on the side, messy and artistic or smooth. Research the different kinds and communicate with your hair dresser.
4.... Short bangs are cute, low maintenance, and a way to soften up your look. They need virtually no styling, and make pulling your hair back into a ponytail with flattering detail as easy as can be! For Success: Realize that they will take a long time to grow out. Make sure that you don't have a cowlick at your forehead, and that your hair isn't too stiff when short - mine was both, and so my little short bangs wouldn't lay flat! Have a stylist cut them - don't cut your own. It is way too easy to make them too short.
5 Above-shoulder length wavy/curly hair, also technically a bob. This is elegant and easy. It's also my favorite look for the hair-chamelion Victoria Beckham. Since she has an exquisite face, she is a bomb shell with a pixie cut, but I think that this look softens up an expression that typically looks a little bit harsh to me. It gives her infallible old Hollywood glamor, too. For Success: Keep it polished. It's still very styled and smooth even though it's curly and low-maintenance. I also love the backward-direction of the styling. Put lots of mouse in there and keep the curls/waves big and frizz free. Don't forget to add a flattering side part!
6.... Oh man. I just love afros. They are so BEAUTIFUL and natural! They look beautiful when they are healthy and shiny. Typically, the more defined the curl, the better. I prefer them in a shape that isn't a huge sphere - I think less of a globe is more modern nowadays. It can even be parted down the middle and hang near your shoulders. And look, it can even be worn by white women! Sign me up, holy gosh. For Success: Give it a definite shape. It doesn't have to be a sphere, and the curls don't have to be tightly-packed, but don't let it became some weirdly layered frizzy flyaway past-the-shoulders thing. The yoga mom organic look. You know what I'm talking about. Keep it groomed, clean, and healthy. Don't let it get streaked with grey hairs, either. But most importantly of all...embrace your beautiful curly hair, and know that here's at least one sad girl who envies you. ;D
7 Red hair. It's my favorite hair color, in any shade and in any style...red hair is just the best. I mean there's really not a lot of debate here, guys. For Success: If you have red hair...ROCK IT LIKE IT'S HOT. Because it is. If you don't, find a shade that will complement your skin tone (try asking your stylist). Also, in my personal opinion, don't go too dark or too close to brown. It might be easier to pull off, but it's not what we adore about eye-catching red, is it? On the flipside, keep it a very natural looking red. Only a select few can pull off a vibrant true red.
8 Hair pulled back severely off the face is rarely very flattering. Braids (think french braids starting at a deep side-part that frame your face) are extremely in this season. They are so "in" that I almost don't want to do them...because everyone who knows anything is doing them. But they are so darn flattering, I can't pass them up! My husband loves when I pull my hair back with a braid. Also, think outside the box. Do two braids and put your hair in a low gather or bun instead of a ponytail. There's something more nostalgic and feminine about it, don't you think? For Success: Keep the braid neat. Don't allow too many flyaways. It might take a few times to get it right. This look is very worth the extra couple of minutes it takes to put your hair back - and it's surprisingly easy.
9. Creamy blonde hair is my second favorite hair color. Kate Hudson usually sports this beautiful color, and the movie How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days showcases it (I also love how she dresses in khaki colors a lot to complement it). For Success: Use the lightest color of Loreal dye-at-home hair color, or, better yet, go to a professional salon. Do your touch ups religiously! Shampoo and condition with product for blonde hair. If it is blue or purple tinted, don't use it every time and watch your hair closely...mine got a pink tinge after using purple shampoo for too long!
10... Long brown hair with bangs is a look I always love. It's so simple and looks smashing on anyone. As a plus side, you need so little makeup with it! This sounds kinda' bad, but if you want to hide your face/self, this is a good way to do it. Just make the bangs extra long, and your hair extra voluminous. This also looks adorable with shorter bangs or pulled back into a ponytail. Zooey Deschanel is the poster child of this look. For Success: Make sure your hair is thick, or add voluminous layers. Don't make the bangs too long if you like the spotlight to be on yours eyes. Really, though, there's no way to fail at this look. It's fool proof.
11... Long hair with body (especially brown). This is a bit of a continuation from no. 10, but you don't need bangs for this one. I love hair with volume. It doesn't have to be curly or even wavy, though you will need layers if it isn't. There's so much movement, it's so forgiving and flattering. It can be polished or downright frumpy, and it still looks awesome! For Success: I prefer a light to medium brown for this look, for whatever reason. Add volume with curlers, layers, product, and fluffing with your fingers. Blow dry with a diffuser to keep hair light, airy, and not pin-straight.
12 Super straight, sleek, shining hair. I prefer this in a medium brown color, and it looks best if your hair is thick. It should also be cut to have a subtle but polished shape. Pantene commercials seem to showcase this style a lot. For Success: Your hair needs to be extremely healthy for this look. Split ends need to NOT exist. Even if your hair is very straight, you may still need to straighten it. I recommend having gloss-coating color put on your hair, and treat your hair to deep conditioning.
13.. Updos. I like them smooth and elegant or messy and romantic. Keep them full for best results. If your hair is too short to go back much, curl it and pin up the curls to fake it (as mine is on the first updo). For Success: Do whatever suits your taste. It should look good from every angle, and it's best if the pins don't show. If you have dark hair, add a white peacock feather or a glittering faux diamond hair clip. If you have light hair, try a blue peacock feather or black glass bling. To add volume if your hair isn't very long or thick, tease hair backwards in sections before wrapping it around in a bun. To finish it off smoothly, lightly brush the exposed parts with a short-bristled brush before wrapping it up.
So what do you guys think? What are YOUR favorite hairstyles? Do you/have you had one of these and either hate it or love it? Share your thoughts!
Tuesday, 12 July 2011
A Walk Down Hair Lane...I mean memory lane.
Nearly every hairstyle I've ever had. Click to view it real size!
The pictures are pretty nearly in order. From the top left picture, I doubt I had ever really cut my hair before then and I had certainly never dyed it. I'm younger than I look there. To the bottom right corner, which is somewhat how my hair looks now, although it isn't as dark as the picture makes it appear. From here, my plan is to grow it out to mid-back, leaving it natural color and relatively unlayered until I reach that point, wearing it curly. Once I reach that length, I want to bleach it blonde again. Woohoo! Once I get there, I will probably change my mind again. The point is that hair is fun, have fun with it! Sometimes making a small change like adding subtle highlights or getting a hardly-there shaping (heck, even just having it professionally styled for a day) can make you fall in love with your hair again. Buy hair products, do some research on how to care for your hair type or style it. And if you've had the same hair for years and years...why not change it, just a little bit? Grow it a little longer with layers or get a modern, asymmetrical bob. Have your hair darkened slightly or add sun-kissed highlights. I've heard it said that hair is the accessory you wear every day. It's your most important one!
OOTD: Boyfriend Flannel
My poll indicates that what you guys want to hear more about is marriage, by a slight margin. Of course, I know one of those votes was my husband, who was not aware that the 'marriage content' I was referring to could be better named as 'jokes at husband's expense.' (Clearly this is not the place to come for marriage advice. ;) Anyway, to satisfy the cravings of my readers and to excuse the fact that this Outfit Of The Day (ootd) post is neither very fashionable nor enlightening, I bring you: boyfriend flannel. Which is me raiding Derek's closet. It was so comfortable, I loved it. I feel a dangerous tradition in the making. Don't worry, I have ideas for more stylish ways to wear boys' shirts, which you will see later.
Also, Derek really liked this outfit. A COMFORTABLE OUTFIT THAT A MALE LIKES?! A BAGGY comfortable outfit that a man likes? I might as well close this blog. You have no need for me, I leave you with the only piece of advice you'll ever need: go steal your significant other's clothes and live in comfort all of your days. I'm just kidding, but in all seriousness, why is it that men love it when their ladyfriend wears their clothing? It's funny, and great.
Also, Derek really liked this outfit. A COMFORTABLE OUTFIT THAT A MALE LIKES?! A BAGGY comfortable outfit that a man likes? I might as well close this blog. You have no need for me, I leave you with the only piece of advice you'll ever need: go steal your significant other's clothes and live in comfort all of your days. I'm just kidding, but in all seriousness, why is it that men love it when their ladyfriend wears their clothing? It's funny, and great.
Softest, yummiest flannel shirt ever: American Eagle for guys
Shorts: Hydraulic (possibly purchased at Target?) Skinny braided leather belt: Forever21 Ribbed tank: Hand-me-down Necklace: JmundoDesigns
Sunglasses: somewhere embarrassing like Claires Lips: Maybelline ColorSensation lip stain in Cherry Pop Random Straps: handmade purse
Have I revolutionized your life? You're welcome.
Sewing Projects: Stuff I've Made
Mostly bags, since they are so easy-peasey, but also a dress. I also made the skirt shown in my OOTD: Nautical post.
Here is the dress I made, from a sheer polka-dot fabric I had lying around forever. I think I splurge-bought it at a fabric store many, many years ago. I had to buy lining and a pattern, and although both were on sale, it came to over $20 with zipper, thread, and elastic. And I already had the overlay fabric! Craziness.
Here is the dress I made, from a sheer polka-dot fabric I had lying around forever. I think I splurge-bought it at a fabric store many, many years ago. I had to buy lining and a pattern, and although both were on sale, it came to over $20 with zipper, thread, and elastic. And I already had the overlay fabric! Craziness.
I accessorized it with a wide belt (Guess) to provide more shape and mature-funkiness, and a flower headband (homemade) to obliterate all maturity and play up the color in the fabric.
The following is a purse I custom made for someone on Etsy who was looking for an orange cross-body bag. I hunted down the fabric for her and made this little beauty, complete with lining and hidden seams!
I have to give a shout-out of thanks to my sweet friend Hannah R. for helping me figure out how to make it. She basically held my hand through the entire process. Thank you, Lovely! You've created a purse-making junkie. ;D
Umbrella: some store in Old Quebec City Zip-Up: Old Navy Skirt and Top: Banana Republic Flats: Aldo
Then I made a purse for my sister-in-law, Sabrina. I LOVE the fabrics she picked out. Deep royal purple with a soft grey lining. Gorgeous.
Sweater: Dynamite Top: American Eagle Coin Pearls: Ben Moss Jewellers Jeans: Fidelity Denim
I also made this purse, more about it and what I am wearing in my OOTD: Nautical post.
I even added a pocket for the first time ever! It was super easy. I really enjoyed making shorter straps, too, as opposed to the uber long ones I had made before.
The following is a drawstring backpack I made using this tutorial. It was really easy and the results are great!
I really needed a bag for toting things when biking, and this one is perfect! I barely feel it, the straps don't slip off, and it can carry a lot of stuff. I made the straps myself by cording the fabric, but I wouldn't recommend it. While the finished product looks cool, it was really difficult and time-consuming, and used a ton of fabric. Finally, the handmade cording doesn't slide very well. I definitely recommend purchasing your own cord. Also, if you follow that tutorial, I would add one thing to the directions: when trimming the sides, leave the top untrimmed and then fold in the extra and hem it to make neat edges where the cords enter and exit. Happy trails!
Monday, 11 July 2011
OOTD: Nautical
Outfit Of The Day
Skirt: homemade Shirt: American Eagle Cardigan: Dynamite Belt: Forever21 Purse: homemade Wrap Bracelet: headband worn as bracelet from Walmart Earrings: Gift; purchased from stall in Europe Necklace: Jmundodesigns @ Etsy
I love nautical things (hence the necklace which I wear near-constantly...the whistle also doubles as a dog whistle!) stripes, cardigans, and belts worn at the natural waist line. Finally, I whipped up this tote because I desperately needed a larger fabric purse for carrying dog stuff in. Viola! You'd never guess dog stuff was in that tote, right? ;)
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