Outerwear for Winter Months

Ladies (and gents), I know it’s cold outside, and in some parts of the world it’s even freezing, but lets not forget that your outerwear can be stylish and keep you toasty. I am an advocate for cute outerwear (I own way too many coats, my fave being a bright blue ’60s-inspired dressy coat with a Peter Pan collar) and believe it’s worth the investment to not compromise cuteness when the temps drop. “Investment” doesn’t necessarily mean expensive, either. Stores like Old Navy and Target always have darling outerwear for under $50.

One fashion faux pas I’d like to bring to everyone’s attention is the Fleece Jacket. Unsure of what I’m referring to? Check out the photo (below).

While it’s great for those times when one is skiing, snowboarding, hiking, laying sick in bed, wearing to and from the gym, on vacation in a below freezing climate, a mom running around town (even then, maybe not),coaching an outdoor sport, or any other winter-time outdoor activity, please refrain from wearing these in daily life. Yes, they are warm, and they also look kind of sloppy. Step it up ladies, I know you can do better.

Just imagine how put-together you can look if you ditch the fleece in favor of a proper coat. Coats now are much warmer and you can look for ones that having linings in cozy material. A nice coat can take your outfit from drab to fab. Choices range from cropped to long versions, various button styles, single and double-breasted, casual pea-coats to more dressy options. There is a coat for everyone. Now just imagine running to the grocery store in a pair of jeans, cute shoes and the fleece jacket. Now imagine a quick trip to the grocery in the same outfit, only with one of the cute coats pictured below. See the difference? Instant chic and it makes you look like you actually tried!

Coats featured above are from Old Navy, Target, Burberry, Stella McCartney, Miss Selfridge, and Marc by Marc Jacobs.

P.S. Dear Men, there is nothing hotter then a guy in a peacoat.

New Year, New You: Examples of Men’s Basic Dressy Casual

 

 

Dear Men, 

Here are a few simple looks you can quickly put on when you want to look pulled together and polished in an instant. Most items above are things you may already have in your existing wardrobe or should consider adding to it. 

Think of “dressy casual” as casual Friday at the office, provided that your office allows you wear denim.

Just a few notes on jeans e-h: Guys on the shorter side may want to avoid the finish on the jeans in g (above) because it can take away inches from your height. This also applies for men on the huskier side as it can make you seem wider. Also, while certain finishes are “in” now, they may be ”out” next season so be sure to edit your closet at least twice a year or invest in classic pieces instead of ultra trendy ones. 

So what pairs well together, anyway? 

Any casual day-time gathering or “just hanging out”: Pair shirt a with e-i, and shoes 1-4. The dressier the event, the darker your pants should be; wear shoes 1 or 3. For a more casual event, try shirt b with pants e-h and shoes 2-4. 

Going out to a casual party, dinner or drinks: Pair shirt a & b with pants e, f, h, and i, and shoes 3. You may wear shoes 4 only if you are wearing pants i. You may also pair any of the shirts with a dark blazer. 

Dressier dinner, drinks, a date, or a club: Wear C with D (do not wear a patterned tee ala shirt b under a vest, unless it is a long-sleeved dark dress shirt with an all-over small print) with pants e, f, or i, and shoes 1 or 3. Shoes 4 may be worn with jeans. You may substitute the vest/waistcoat with a dark blazer or sport coat and wear a patterned shirt ala shirt b.

P.S. The difference between a blazer and sport coat is a pattern; blazers are solid, sport coats have a subtle pattern (if in doubt, go for a small tone-on-tone pattern, or subtle pin stripe pattern in dark grey, navy, or black).

If your pants seem droopy, grab a belt. Us ladies would rather see the curve of your derriere and not your underwear. Not sure what belt to wear? A slim, black leather belt with a silver-tone or brushed metal buckle is always a best bet. It goes with everything and looks smart. You can often find inexpensive versions at Target, Gap, and Sears. Heed the words of General Larry Platt, “Stop looking like a fool with your pants on the ground.” When in doubt, always grab a belt.

When wearing your button down shirt open, please do not wear a plain white tee underneath. It will look like you’re wearing your white undershirt, which will make you appear sloppy. Wear a different color or something with a slight pattern. To appear more stylish and/or polished, avoid wearing tee’s with slogans and cartoon or comic characters.

Very few guys can get away with wearing a vest with Chuck’s, so heed caution when trying to mix the two. I’ve seen men do this with great, stylish sucess, and also with great fail. If you try this look, go for jeans with a dark wash.

If you wish to accessorize, add in a watch, funky belt buckle, a simple cuff, or a ring; not all of these together. A best practice is to keep visible accessories to, at maximum, three. If it’s cold and you are wearing a tee, add in a scarf in a dark, solid tone (grey, navy, and black are sure bets, though you can get away with brown and deep reds). Do not, for the love of the fashion gods, wear a scarf with the vest or sport coat/blazer.

Eau de V-day: Men

Fragrance is a great Valentine’s Day gift for yourself or a loved one. Here are my top picks for anyone close to your heart: 

1. Yves Saint Laurent L’Homme, $43-$100, sephora.com: Modern and sensual, this offering from YSL will dazzle your senses with bergamot, cedar, ozonic accord, white ginger, cedarwood, and vetiver.

2. Givenchy Play, $53-$71, sephora.com: Fresh, play-ful, and inspired by hottie Justin Timberlake, this well-rounded fragrance features bergamot, mandarin orange, bitter orange, grapefruit, Amyris wood, and black pepper.

3. Diesel Only The Brave, $53-$65, sephora.com: Bold, confident, and masculine, this fist shaped bottle with Diesel knuckles only needs four fragrance notes to get its point across: lemon, leather, amber, and cedarwood.

4. Dolce and Gabbana The One For Men, $40-$70, sephora.com: Mmmm…I saved the best for last as this fragrance is pretty much sex in a bottle. Who wouldn’t want to get close to a guy wearing The One? With its notes of grapefruit, coriander, ginger, orange blossom, cedar, and amber, it’s both fresh and woodsy all in one bottle. Or…snuggly.

Eau de V-day: Women

Fragrance is a great Valentine’s Day gift for yourself or a loved one. Here are my top picks for anyone close to your heart: 

  

1. Nanadebary Classic Pink Eau de Parfum, $98-$160, at luckyscent.com’s Scentbar 8327 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles or nanadebary.com: With jasmine, bergamot, sandalwood, and vanilla, this fem fragrance is delicate and grounded.

2. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum, $100-$150, nordstrom.com: This sweet, heady floral features notes of bergamot, orchid, freesia, and rose with a patchouli base note.

3. D & G 3 L’IMPERATRICE, $65, sephora.com: This is one of my current faves because it’s soft, modern and flirty with notes of pink cyclamen, watermelon, jasmine, musk, and sandalwood.

4. Dolce and Gabbana Rose the One Eau de Parfum, $60-90, sephora.com: I am not a rose girl in the least, or so I thought, until I tried Rose the One. It is NOT your grandmother’s rose. This version of Dolce & Gabbana’s The One opens with zesty pink grapefruit, mandarin, peach, Bulgarian rose, peony,  and closes with vanilla, amber, and musk .  

5. Victoria’s Secret Love Rocks Eau de Parfum, $39, victoriassecret.com: This new fruity floral from VS is featured in a stunning red flacon and is packed with notes of  peony, raspberry  sorbet, jasmine, peach nectar, plum, violet, and cashmere musk.

Get the Look: Bold Lips and Soft Waves

 Why not try out a new look in 2010? Taylor Swift’s soft waves and a hot lip stain are the basis of this easy to create romantic look, fit for a night out or Valentine’s Day (her new movie or the Hallmark hyped holiday in February). For a twist, try using a bright blue mascara or fun colored lashes.

1. Shu Umera Faux Lashes in Smokey Layer, $25, sephora.com: Shu Umera lashes are hand-made with attention to detail. Try the Smokey Layer lashes (pictured) or for maximum drama, try the Feather Black Velvet lashes (my fave).  

2. Smashbox Lash DNA Mascara, $19, smashbox.com and sephora.com: Finally, a good for your lashes mascara. Swipe the double-helix shaped wand over your lashes for length and volume. The high-tech formula also helps to condition and strengthen lashes while you wear it. This is one mascara that I will definitely purchase over and over again because it makes my lashes almost look like I’m wearing the faux version.

3. Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream, $9-$27.50, fekkai.com: Lightly dab on a little of this gorgeous shine infusing cream for hair that looks healthy and hydrated. The new and improved formula releases shine throughout the day and infuses strands with a slight shimmer for added shine.

4. GHD IV Styler, $240, ghd.com, sephora.com, beautyencounter.com: Investing in the GHD is one of the best things I’ve ever done for my hair. The MK IV version features a built-in microchip that senses how much the styler is being used and will automatically heat back up and it has automatic shut off after 30 minutes. You can create stick-straight styles, wavy styles, and even curl your locks to perfection.

5. TIGI Fashionista Smooth and Shine Heat and Iron Safe UV Protector, price varies by store and is carried by Ulta, Trade Secret, many salon’s throughout the US, and some drug stores: My absolute fave for protecting my silky strands from heat damage from my hair drier and GHD IV styler. It’s easy to apply and doesn’t leave hair feeling sticky or too wet. Great on wet or dry hair before heat styling. Sometimes you can find this in sets with the matching shampoo and conditioner.

6. Guerlain Meteorites Illuminating Pressed Powder in Beige Lumineux #3, $65, sephora.com: The newest member of the Guerlain Meteorites family will highlight features while diffusing imperfections. Sweep over your cheekbones with a fluffy brush or fan brush for a model worthy glow.

7. TheBalm For Keeps Watercolor Lip Stains Duo in Petunia Pink / Rasberry Red, $28, sephora.com: Try this no-budge water activated lip stain duo for a kissable pout that won’t rub off on your napkin or your date. Add more water to the included brush for a kiss of color or less water for an intense pout.

New Year, New You: Workout Gear

 

I am all for getting new workout goodies, be it either at home equipment or clothes. I’ll admit that most of the time my gym shirts make me a walking advert for the skin care brand Kinerase but sometimes I like to wear super cute workout clothes (like if I’m taking a class or when I was working out with the hot trainer). Some of the items shown above I own, while others are on my workout wish list. 

1. Nike Shox Turbo + VI iD Women’s Running Shoe, $130, nike.com: I want the aqua color (not shown) although the pink and yellow is actually kind of cute (and I don’t do pink). They are light weight, very supportive, and will also give you instant workout feedback when used with either an ipod Nano or Nike SportBand. You can even customize the size for your right and left feet. 

2. Danskin Now Pilates Magic Circle, $10, walmart.com: I rather liked my circle before my dog chewed up the foam pads. It helped to increase resistance for a better workout and it was easy to use. I ended up getting bored with it, though, and I think my little dog could tell. 

3. Balance Ball, various prices: My old roommate and I swore we’d workout every day when we got these. We didn’t. I, however, did eventually end up using it quite often. I purchased mine for around $15 as a set from TJ Maxx that included the ball, a pump, a resistance band, and a handy dvd. I’ve seen them sold from $12-$30 and up depending on the brand. Make certain to shop around for the best price. 

4.  Nintendo Wii Fit + Balance Board, $100, target.com: I have debated on getting this. I’ve heard a lot of good things about Wii Fit. I’d need to buy the Nintendo Wii first. Hmmm. This or gym membership? Or both? We’ll see. 

5. Gaiam Flower Power Yoga Mat, $24-62 ($62 includes matching case and water bottle), Gaiam.com: I have this design in purple and love it, though I like fun green color better. It’s non-slip bottom is perfect for klutzes (like me). Make sure to grab yoga mat cleanser when you buy your mat and clean it regularly. 

6. Nike Ace Women’s Tank Top, $35, nike.com: These tops are cute enough to run errands in before the gym and then work up a sweat in. They do not offer any support so you will still need to pair it with a good sports bra. Looking for a more affordable option? Try Target. They have a great choice at prices so low that you can buy two. 

7. Nike 5 lb Hand Weights, $35, nike.com: Finally! Weights that are sleek, stylish, and easy to hold. 

8. Puma Essential Fitted Shorts, $32, puma.com: I am not one of those girls that works out in shorts. If I was, I’d probably choose these as they are stretchy enough to not flash the entire gym a glimpse of your undies. Workout in good taste, ladies! 

9. Puma Agile Capri, $32, puma.com or zappos.com: These are some of the most comfy pants I’ve ever worked out in (except for some off brand capri’s I found at Target). They have a drawstring, which I love, and don’t make odd noises as you run on the gym treadmill. 

10. Earthlust Water Bottle, $18, Vickerey.com: I love my stainless steel water bottle. It’s a great way to cut down on plastic water bottles and stay hydrated. Confession: sometimes, if I’m running short on time, I’ll still grab a plastic water bottle. 

11. Uni Bodi Pilates Weight Balls, $20, unibodi.com: If you prefer not to hold hand weights during pilates, try weight balls instead. These are a little more ergonomic and easier to grasp. 

12. Old Navy Womens Funnel-Neck Yoga Jacket, $20, oldnavy.com: Besides Target, I love finding inexpensive workout clothes at Old Navy. I have this jacket in the carbon shade and love it. The pockets are easy to access and feature zippers so your personal items will stay put. It’s also pretty comfy and soft.

Tonight: Tim Gunn on “How I Met Your Mother”

 

I rarely watch TV nowadays but tonight I will be tuning in to How I Met Your Mother because Tim Gunn will be making a cameo on the show. Exciting! Also, check out TG’s facebook page for a video update of the People’s Choice Awards best and worst fashion. I didn’t watch the awards show and I would love to know who the  “star who looked like he came in from doing yard work” is.

EDIT: If you missed the show, you can catch the Tim Gunn scene here (@ 1:33):

Get Glam Sephora Must-Haves

 

  I have a nice little huge Sephora wish list of things I want to try and I wanted to share a few products because they are get glam basics that will make any girl feel like a princess. Guys, take note, V-day is coming up and all but the skin care item makes a great gift.

 1. Smashbox Heartbreaker Lip Shine, $19; I always tell myself that I am not allowed to buy more lip gloss. I have far too many glosses that I don’t even reach for anymore and they sit around unused and unloved. That said, I might cave in and buy melon-drama from their spring “Heratbreaker” collection. It’s smooth, sheer, gives just a hint of color, and a lot of shine. Sooo pretty.

 2. Smashbox Master’s class Beauty Breakthrough Kit, $59; I love being the first to try new products, especially ones that aren’t released individually or to the general public, and everything in this kit are “lab samples” (full size product that is being tested on the market, sans fancy packaging). This kit will receive its very own post once I buy it. I have to say that their Photo-Op under eye brightener and O-Glow lip gloss are two of my beauty must-haves and I love the idea of a creamier Photo-Op in a pot and the O-Glow with shimmer. In this kit, they are also testing a new cheek stain/gel blush (ala Tarte, only not as sticky), a new mascara with a tiny wand to reach all of your lashes, their award-winning brow wax in pencil form (ala Anastasia), and a HUGE palette filled with waterproof eyeshadow. When I first set eyes on the palette, I was mesmerized by the size because Smashbox could sell it for $59 alone!

 3.  Stella McCartney STELLANUDE Linen Mist, $59, 4.2 oz;  When I found out that this ubber feminine fragrance is now in a linen mist, I almost jumped for joy. Featuring notes of Moroccan rose, grapefruit, vanilla, and amber, the fragrance is soft, uplifting, romantic, and sensual all in one.

 4. Nars Orgasm Illuminator, $29; Achieve a radiant, O-esque glow day or night with this new sheer peachy-pink highlighter. Nars has expanded its Orgasm series over the past five years to include lip gloss, an extra glittery blush, nail polish, and now an all-over illuminator for face and body. A little goes a long way and the 1.1 fl oz tube is certain to last months on end.

 5. Kat Von D Solid Perfume Ring, $30; Want to carry fragrance where ever you go and be stylish doing so? The Kat Von D perfume ring is a gorgeous statement piece to touch up your fragrance mid-day or mid-party. It comes with two pans of fragrance, one pan each of sinner and saint. It’s also large enough to double as a weapon to ward off any would-be attacker or more stylish than brass knuckles in a brawl.

 6. Philosophy Miracle WorkerAnti-aging Retinoid Pads and Solution, $70; These are at the very top of my Sephora wish list. These anti-aging pads is with HPR for a bevy of skin beautifying benefits: reduced signs of aging, more smoothness and clarity, more radiance, less discoloration, and smaller pores. As with any retinol product, make sure you use an SPF of at least 15 daily to protect the skin. Yes, even on cloudy days and in winter.

ETSY: Virtue Knits

 

Imagine that you’re getting ready to go out and brave the cold weather. You put on your warmest coat, boots, and gloves but you feel like you’re missing something. How about a toasty scarf or hat? Francesca of Virtue Knits on Etsy makes cozy knitted goodies to help keep you warm. 

Check out her Etsy, which features hand knitted scarfs, wraps, hats, and even bags: 

http://www.etsy.com/shop/virtueknits 

And add Virtue Knits on Facebook because she offers sweet deals and occasional buy one get one deals.

New Year, New You: Home

I absolutely love my space as it is at the current moment, and even so, I still have the urge to constantly redecorate. It’s not in my budget at the moment to do an overhaul so I may just rearrange or perhaps spice things up with some new accessories. I’d love to share some of my fave inspiration photos of what I’d love to do with my space if I was able to. Perhaps you’ll be inspired, too. Also, for more inspiration, check out Amazon.com for decor books or apartmenttherapy.com for instant ideas by city or space type.

Click below to see photos.