Kerry Washington Vanity Fair 2013

                                      
                                     

Happy Wednesday!

I was strolling down the aisle the other day at Safeway when I notice actress Kerry Washington on Vanity Fair.  I had no idea Kerry Washington was on the Julys issue of Vanity Fair. In case you guys don't know I love Kerry Washington, she's has this sexy intellectual- regal elegance about her that I'm memorized by. As I stated before this women has the perfect combination of class and smarts all wrapped in one! I love a smart woman!!  Click on the link to get behind the scenes glimpse of Washington's shoot with Vanity Fair.


"beauty is a lifestyle"

My New Addiction: Maybelline Vivids Lipstick

I've got a new addiction, and I'm not proud of it... But it is what it is.

I love these New Maybelline Vivids lipsticks. omg. so so so much.

Every time I go to the grocery store I pick up a new one. They are so cheap ($5) and the colors are great. The finish is an amazing creamy satin. There is no sparkle (thank god), which keeps it looking modern, and you can get a great matte look if you blot it. Plus, they stay on forever. High fives all around.

I have been known to be a makeup snob. Yes, I admit this.
I had been wanting both an Orange lipstick and a Pale Pink without shimmer for some time. I tried the Stila, the MAC, the YSL, etc etc, and there was always something I just didn't love about each stick. The thought of spending $15-$25 on a makeup item that I might not wear ever again did not appeal to me. But then when I saw these *VIVIDS* at Walgreens, I thought, "Man, for $5... what the heck!?"

.... And I fell in love.

So far I have four, and they are amazing. Check it:

1. Shocking Coral

2. Electric Orange

3. Pink Pop

4. Brazen Berry

Every time I wear them I get tons of compliments. And the last two days I've been wearing just one of these lipsticks without any other makeup!

It's such a fun look! Get some and Enjoy!

Celebrity Engagement Rings

Diamonds are a  girls best friend and who doesn't love the beautiful extraordinarily lavish rings celebrity women are given. Here's a small collection of some of the most gorgeous celebrity engagement rings.


                                  
The marriage maybe over but Ashlee Simpson was given this beautiful asscher cut ring by ex hubby Pete Wentz. Lucky Girl!

                                   
Ben Affleck gave Jennifer Garner this 4.5 carat engagement ring. The diamond on this one is simply gorg.


                                          

Even though they never maid it down the aisle this beautiful ring was given to the lovely Zoe Saldana by ex- Bradly Cooper.


                                   
I believe the ring Justin Timberlake gave to Jessica Biel is an antique. Either way the ring is stunning and has  a regal look to it.

                                     
Basketball player Carmelo Anthony purposed to his soon the be wife La la Anthony with this reportedly $1 million engagement ring.

As you know there are many beautiful celebrities engagement rings to gawk over. My list doesn't even scratch the surface of some of the most radiant engament rings female celebrities have strolled down the red carpet sporting. Which rings are your favorite?

"beauty is a lifestyle"

Dressing for Michigan-Schizo weather

Today I'm wearing something akin to this (this is not me)

Since it's FREAKING ZERO degrees on July 29th, not that I'm upset with that.
Last week it was about 100 degrees. Such is Michigan Weather.

Complaining about weather is like complaining that the sky is blue. There really is no greater waste of energy.

So it got me thinking that Hipsters are actually the smartest people on earth, because they have repurposed traditionally cold weather clothing for summer wear, and are therefore prepared for anything at any time. Bravo, Hipsters.

Here are my examples:

1. Prepared for anything.

*slow clap* for this girl. She has rubber Hunter boots on, so she can withstand flooding... But a mini skirt, for up-spikes in the temperature, and the layering of a T shirt/vest/parka that can pretty much accommodate all seasons. And topped off with a knit hat. Pop this girl in any season of Michigan and she would be happy as a clam.

2. Hat/Scarf/Flannel

Is it cold? Roll the flannel sleeves down, pull the scarf over your face, and keep the hat where it is. 

Is it warm? Do the opposite of all of those steps. 

He's like a boy scout that listens to Bon Iver.

3. Giant sweater/ Uggs / no pants

Elle MacPherson, not only are you gorgeous, but you are a genius. If she gets cold all she has to do is crouch down and pull the sweater over her knees, just like a turtle. Wait that weather out, when it gets warm, just stand up and your read to go. Legs are then exposed to cool the body. 

4. Full Leg Legwarmers

Those legwarmers are for sure warmth-rated for at least 100 below zero. 

5. Jessica Alba

Even Jessica Alba is ready for weird Michigan weather, for at all times she is wearing some sort of blankie about her neck. 

So next time you want to make fun of hipsters keep this in mind, they are ALWAYS 79 steps ahead of you... In music, trends, and now weather appropriate dressing. 

New Trends for 2013

These new trends are not only great for summer but seemly have become a staple because there just effortless to achieve.

                                                       
                             Singer Ciara does beach waves the way they should be done.

Beachy Hair
Remember I did a post called ". I highlighted how at one point in time the messy beachy hair look was just that, too messy. Some people were going over board the look because it look untamed and not style. However, beachy hair should be curled just enough so that you can easily go from a office to cocktail party.

                                                   
                          Actress Michelle Tractenberg has beautiful wine stained lips. Ladies this is how it should be done!!

Stained Lips
I think this is a great alternative from lip gloss. We've just seem so much gloss it can be over bearing. What I like most about the stain lip look it that it have more longevity than gloss and lipstick.

     
                                         
                       Here we have actress Naomi Harris and Singer Michelle Branch two different skin tone wearing metallic make up.
 
Metallic Make Up
Metallic make up looks good on everyone regardless of skin color, age pr eye shape. If you remember I did a post on the Cannes Film Festival and new bond girl Naomi Harris rocked metallic make up. Metallic colors are settle if you only put the reflective shiney shades on the eyes only.

                                                         
                                                Sexy but still playful colorful smoky eye.

Colorful Smoky Eye
 this is a new take on the classic black eyeliners with dark eye shadows that give such a sultry look. I love the new take on the jewel tone eyeshadow because its fun and different. Its okay to have fun with our make up because ewe never know what we might discover.

                                                           
Flat Ironed Hair
I think we all know flat ironed hair is just classic. If you ladies have frizzy hair and want to tame it straight Chaacoca Moroccan Oil will give you shine, moisture and eliminates frizz.

So there's my list of the latest beauty and hair trend of 2013. What do you think? Are you guys rocking metallic make this summer or beachy hair? Have a great day!!


"beauty is a lifestyle"

Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats

                                                       

Happy Sunday!!

These cute little rice krispie treats are dipped into any color chocolateand just the perfect touch to pretty up your table. I found this idea posted by the Little Big Company | The Blog: Ballerina Baby Shower Dessert Table by "And EverythingSweet". Clever and economical, Click on the link to get more creative  ideas for your next bash!


"beauty is a lifestyle"

Summer Nail Art

                                        


Happy Saturday!

August may be here soon but these cute nail design ideas we can wear into Fall season. Enjoy! Click on the link to get the complete look.



"beauty is a lifestyle"

DIY *Black Rose* Brooch out of a Shimano Derailleur

The other day M and I were going for a stroll, and something shiny caught my eye, since I'm kind of like a raccoon. (I once found a diamond ring smashed to pieces in a parking lot the same way, with 10 salvageable diamonds)

REENACTMENT:

 It ends up that it is part of this alien looking thing:

Which is a derailleur (Thanks Teena!) for a mountain bike made by the Shimano company. I can't even imagine the epic crash that resulted in the bottom of this being ripped off in such a violent way and strewn on the side of Main Street.

My first thought was AWESOME! I'M USING THIS FOR *NOVELTY BROOCH FRIDAY*

WOOT WOOT!! It was dirty and greasy, so Stonewash soaked it in Lemon Juice, which just works awesome to clean ancient things that we find in the walls of the house. It really got in all the nooks and crannies.

Then I hot-glued a brooch back on the only flat part of the device:

VOILA!!! I think it looks so rad.

The gear-y things still move, which makes it only cooler.

It is pretty darn heavy for it's size so it needed a pretty strong fabric to mount to. This white tuxedo jacket from H&M was perfect.
By the way: M took this shot and she said to pretend like I'm carrying two buckets of flowers.

Female Celebrity Style: Kim Cameron

Kim Cameron is a woman who can't live with her black eyeliner which is a staple in her morning routine.

Kim Cameron is the spunky lead singer of Side FX. The glam diva once had her own fashion column for the Washington DC Examiner but what has me buzzing today is her female celebrity style.

Once I saw a pic of Cameron I immediately thought, "Stevie Nicks". Upon more research I discovered that not only is the legendary Stevie Nicks Cameron's inspiration but her style is synchronized with the classic elegance of Carole Lombard. Cameron is a huge fan of Lombard and considers her a beauty icon.

In this pic Kim is serving us urban chic and Parisian romance. What a laid back approach to style thats youthful and whimsical.

Cameron style has been describe as urban chic and Parisian romance. She's know for her accessories and loves jewelry to glam up her look before hitting the stage. However, before her look is completed she adds  glitter which makes sets the fashion tone for  magical and fun. Cameron is putting her own twist on how style and fashion is defined and you've gotta respect that.


"beauty is a lifestyle"

"Life is too short to wear boring clothes"

Reading my beloved Allure magazine this evening, I saw this article about how you would style a "pajama-ish" top. 

This lady... Barrett Prendergast, decided to put it together in the most boring, unflattering way of all time, wrapping this *vintage scarf* around her neck... and then, she said:

"If you wear all vintage clothing, it can look costumey."

First of all, who goes into a vintage store, finds a plain black scarf, and HAS TO HAVE IT? it's like getting a *vintage* fruit of the loom white T.
I abhor this outfit. It's just awful and plain and reminds me of things that make a person blend in dissolve into the background for a life of mediocrity.

I buy vintage clothing because each garment is like a rare gem, it's individuality is what draws me to it. The thing about vintage that I find most alluring is the fact that there is JUST ONE. And the most fabulous print or most unique shape I can find, the better.

HEY! WHAT'S WRONG WITH LOOKING COSTUMEY?

Dita is wearing all vintage Dior here.

Is she looking "costumey"? HELL YES. Is she looking amazing?? ABSOLUTELY!

I am always going to go for a costumey look, a dramatic look. What is the point of doing otherwise?

Why do people think conventional looks good?

Bleh, Katie, wear something fun for once... Please!

I just don't get it.

Everyday that you put on clothes is an opportunity to wear something beautiful and amazing.

• To look like whomever you want to. 
• To be a character. 
• To transform the shape of your physique. 
• To enjoy the beauty of color and the feel of sumptuous fabrics! 

Have fun! WEAR A COSTUME! 

Best Perfume Ever

I love perfumes like I love cashmere; it's a sensual, tactile thing for me. Really great smells will make me pass out with joy, I'm not even kidding. I can remember the aroma of the toys of my childhood. 

I think I may be obsessed with fragrance because I seriously was unable to see well until age 16, when I first realized that trees had individual leaves, maybe because of that hinderance my smell sense developed into a SUPERPOWER. 

I just ordered this the other day. They sell it at the Union Woodshop, and every time I go there I spray it on liberally. It's an amazing, very NON-perfumey smell. To me, it smells like the place you would like to end up drinking coffee at at 4am in Paris after a long night of dancing with your lover.

Sephora says it has the notes of, "Jasmine, Coconut, Tonka, Cinnamon, Cedar, Patchouli, Clove."
Ok, fine... THAT. (purchase it here)

10 Swimsuits That Will Flatter Any Figure

                                                   

Hi Guys!

Here's the new ezine article written by yours truly that was published the other day. I hope you like.

During the peak of vacation season most will flock to the beaches for seaside recreation. Women's swimwear defines the evolution in fashion itself. UjENA has the worlds largest catalogue of women's swimwear. The greatest swimsuits by UjENA are fashionable and flattering for any figure. Whether your post baby weight, athletic build or fuller figured these fabulous swimsuits are not only great for the beach but elegant enough they maybe worn to your next resort vacation.


                                                       
10. Pool Side Tankini Plus
This beautiful tankini comes in a soft coral blue and is perfect for hiding the mid section. It comes in halter style, has removable padding, tummy control lining, ties at the neck, fully lined, provides full rear coverage and made of matte nylon/lycra fabric.


                                                       
9. 50's Skirted
Retro swimsuits made a come back this year. A few of the hottest female celebrities from Drew Barrymore had been on the beach wearing 1950s polka dot swimsuits. This 50's skirted feature removable padding, a banded bustline and is fully lined.

                                                        
8. Backless in the Bedroom
This is a super sexy dress that can also be worn as a cover up. Made in the halter style this sizzling number is handmade and comes in silky red and plum.

                                                          

7. Aqua Glam Bikini
Take a walk on the wild side with body revealing bikini. Show everyone that you've been going to the gym as every inch of your physic will be on display. Aqua Glam Bikini is another handmade creation by UjENA.


                                                          
6. Coffee City Tie
This is truly an elegant two pice swimsuit that comes in a beautiful cream and a mocha bottom. The triangle top features a colombian scrunch bottom. The soft colors of this bikini is sure to match different skin tones.

                                                         

5. Blondsville Belted
This has a 60s inspired look as the white belt gracefully wraps around the waist. This swimsuit is available in a beautiful fuchsia in a halter style top with supportive elastic band and removable padding.

                                                        

4. Bora Bora Braided
The title says it all for the sexy triangle top that sure to turn heads as you walk on the beach. This bikini comes with exotic braided detailing in a beautiful coral pink and blue patterns.

                                                       

3. Bahama Breeze Tankini Plus
This tankini is perfect for curvy women and new moms. A beautiful baby doll style tankini that is crossed strapped in the back and tummy control lining. Further, the tankini is available in a 3x.

                                                        

2. Sunset Beach Swim Dress
This swim dress has a beautiful floral print pattern. In addition, the durable swim dress has halter top straps which are thicker. This swim dress could function as a maternity swimsuit, a lovely summer dress or cover up. Either way you will be happy your have this in the closet.

                                                          
1. Coral Full Figured Tankini Plus
A lovely tankini that has a tummy control lining, seam under bust and crisscrossed straps. This is perfect for women who are curvy or new moms.

"beauty is a lifestyle"