Half-Moon (Reverse French) Nail Tutorial

In the 1930s if ladies painted their nails at all, they painted only the center of their nails, leaving both the tip and half moon bare. Recently we've seen a re-immergence of the reverse french or half moon manicure on the runway, in editorials, or on the likes of celebrities like the gorgeous Dita Von Teese. Use your own shades to create the modern half moon nail! In the video below, I show you how I create the look:

Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring 2011

Marc by Marc Jacobs brought us fun, colorful, preppy style for spring that wouldn't look out of place on 'That 70's Show'.

Runway Video:

Lela Rose Spring 2011

Lela Rose rarely ever steers me wrong, and her Spring 2011 collection is no exception. The Peruvian inspired colors, prints, textures and details were absolutely gorgeous. The sheer panels, painterly prints, and metallic tweeds were stand outs. I also loved the messy braids and bright red/orange matte lipstick the models wore.The Lela Rose for Payless shoes will be a shopping list must!

Runway Video:

Alexander Wang Spring 2011

Alexander Wang presented a nearly all white collection, with bits mint, yellow, terra-cotta, & silver thrown in. The clothing seemed very utilitarian...overalls, cargo-pants, jackets, vests, and knits with plenty of straps, harnesses, & pockets. I found the looks to be a mash up of the clothing painters and construction workers wear on the job.

Details:

The Models wore white paint in their hair, and opted to make septum piercings cool for spring. Metallic stripe detailing added interest to all-white ensembles. The lace up ankle boots were a fashionable take on a construction boot.

Runway Video:

Marc Jacobs Spring 2011

Marc Jacobs brought back 70's inspired color, prints, and texture for Spring 2011. The floral hair pieces reminded me a bit of the Lola Marc by Marc perfume bottle, which I adore. I expect the printed halter dresses to be favorite of young starlets.

Bags:

I am completely in love with the serpent detail on the clutches!

Shoes/Accessories:

Floral embellishments & more serpent details...

Beauty:

Big frizzy hair and dramatic make-up was front & center on the runway. Grace Coddington must be pleased, no?

Runway Video:

Rebecca Minkoff Spring 2011

Rebecca Minkoff presented a 70s inspired collection that was pretty with just enough of a tough girl edge to make it cool. I, of course, was eyeing the accessories and there was plenty of amazing bags (and now shoes!) to keep me firmly on board the Minkoff bandwagon. I think I need a cream MAB with contrasting black piping now, don't you?! Oh and Rumi Neely of Fashion Toast modeled for RM, and she looked as gorgeous as ever. I especially loved the chain earring that was woven into her hair. Cool!

Rebecca Minkoff Spring 2011 collection via Minkette.com

Watch the looks on the runway:

Jason Wu Spring 2011

View the entire Jason Wu Collection @ NYMag.com

Frilly frocks were balanced out by beautifully tailored pieces at Jason Wu's Spring 2011 show. The designer cited Brazilian artist, Beatriz Milhazes, as a source of his inspiration. See-through chiffon tops and petal-esque layers were common themes, and while I don't foresee our first lady daring to wear one of the sheer numbers, but I fully expect this collection to see a lot of airtime on the red carpet.

The Aveda team braided chiffon into the models hair before creating their up-dos. See how they achieved the look below:

Watch the Jason Wu Backstage Interview:

Watch the looks on the runway:

Ports 1961 Spring 2011

Ports 1961 Spring 2011 Collective via Elle.com

Ports 1961 will undoubtedly keep attracting loyal fans with their Spring 2011 collection. The collection was full of beautiful gauzy gowns embellished with crystals, wide-leg pants, draped one-shoulder dresses, and wearable separates. A primarily neutral palette of white, cream, beige was countered by lovely jewel tones gold, emerald, and fuchsia. The models wore their hair down with large glamazon curls for a sultry look.

Watch the looks on the runway:

United Bamboo Spring 2011

View the entire United Bamboo collection @ NYMag

The United Bamboo spring 2011 collection was well rounded having the perfect mix of night and day looks. My favorites included the silk floral dresses, cropped jackets, and the sequined mini skirts. 

Watch the Runway Finale:

Doo.Ri Spring 2011

Beautiful construction and draping were on full display at the Spring 2011 Doo.Ri show. I loved the cream suits, the almond knits, and the yellow and navy print, and the strapless little white dress.  Overall it was a very salable collection from Doo.Ri.

Shoes:

I really loved the chunky nude suede heels!

Beauty:

The models wore their hair in low, loose pony tails for an effortless style. The models had flawless foundation with very little color on the face. The result was a slightly washed out look with subtle shades of mustard shining through. The MAC team applied Vanilla cream shadow to the lids, followed by MAC's Derailed and Ochre shadows heavily blended for a muted effect. Concealer was applied to the inner corner of the eye, and a dab of mustard & orange shadows were added to the center of the lid to liven up the look. The vanilla cream was applied to create a nude lip and a bit of the mustard eyeshadow was applied to the center of the lips creating a unique color.

Rag & Bone Spring 2011

View the entire Rag & Bone Spring 2011 collection @ NYMag

The fashion world is definitely a dangerous one, and if you are going to take risks on the runway having your models strapped in is a good idea.  Rag & Bone designers Marcus Wainwright and David Neville took a safety-first approach to spring by strapping their models into harnesses.  There were some winning pieces in the collection namely the poppy and beige blazer that was worn over one of the harness bandage bras seen throughout the collection.  I also liked the idea of pairing sheer neutrals with metallics. I wasn't a fan of the backpacks, 70's style suits, bike short-garter combo, patchwork print, or the models' just-got-out-of-bed hair. If I were styling a pop-star, say Rihanna, for a shoot I would definitely grab a few of those harness bras, but otherwise I think this collection is largely a pass.

Watch the looks on the runway:

Peter Som Spring 2011

Peter Som presented a bright, fun, and upbeat collection with mod graphic prints, floral brocade, a beach appropriate 'postcard' print, and tweed.  It was a breath of fresh air with interesting combinations and just the right amount of 'Barbie'.
 

Watch the looks on the runway:

BCBG Max Azria Spring 2011

View the entire collection @ Style.com

The BCBG Max Azria show kicked off with a series of white dresses of all varieties: flowing gowns, tiered mini dresses, simple shifts, asymmetrical necklines, & a bit of embroidery. The theme continued but in hues of muted yellow, melon, beige, poppy, grey and black. The looks are fit for a modern goddess. In fact, I wouldn't mind packing one or two of these looks for my honeymoon next spring!

Watch the looks on the runway:

Richard Chai Love Spring 2011

View the entire collection @ Style.com

The looks in the spring 2011 presentation for Richard Chai's, secondary line, Love reminded me a bit of the looks favored by dancers going to and from the studio. Comfort was key with bandeaus under sheer tops, flowing wide-leg pants, and easy to wear separates in neutral hues.

Mara Hoffman Spring 2011

Mara Hoffman's spring 2011 presentation had a relaxed Latin beach vibe with the models mingling against a background of palm trees with a live Brazilian band playing in the background.  The vibrant tribal prints were balanced out with casual army green vests and rompers. The one-shoulder printed mini dress was a favorite. Check out the video below:

Rachel Comey Spring 2011 Collection

View the entire collection at Style.com

Season after season I find myself flocking towards Rachel Comey's fantastic prints and shoes. From the looks of this collection I will be doing exactly that come Spring 2011!  The collection was hip yet sophisticated and not the least bit drab or boring. The silhouettes were incredibly flattering, the art decco prints and plaids were lovely, and the chunky square heeled shoes were amazing.  I better start saving now...

Vena Cava Spring 2011

View the entire collection at Style.com

Vena Cava gave us their spin on sportswear and it was spot on. Punches of poppy, yellow, and blue brightened the primarily neutral palette while their signature prints and color blocking made the collection fresh and unique. I haven't talked to a single person who didn't love the orange halter dress featured in this collection. Who knows, I might even wear orange lipstick to match...

Beauty:

Full makeup for spring inspired by the '80s and Michelle Pfeiffer in Scarface
Eyes: Smoky Eye using Navy & Metallic eye shadows in MAC's Contrast and Graphology

Lips: A pretty poppy/coral lip using: MAC lipstick in Morange and Neon Orange

Cheeks: MAC Mineralize Blush in Dainty

Hair: Low & Sleek Chignons

Nails: Beige with Black half moons (a/k/a reverse french) (P.S. I am wearing navy and silver half moon nails today!) 

Watch the looks on the runway:

Kate Spade Wish List

Image by Jeniee

Two of my favorite books, 'The Great Gatsby' and 'Great Expectations' have inspired Kate Spade's adorable "Book of the Month" clutch. The frame bags are just big enough to hold your library card, keys, cash, and your favorite shade of lipstick. This is one instance where judging a book by its cover is not only accepted, it is encouraged!  I adore the yellow 'The Great Gatsby' clutch...

Book Of The Month Clutch: The Great Gatsby, Great Expectations & The Importance of Being Earnest $325 each @ Kate Spade

I also can't wait to try Kate Spade's first fragrance 'Twirl'.  With notes of pink watermelon, blackberry, red currant, orange blossom, sweet magnolia, and even french macaron, I don't see how one could resist! The adorable bottle just seals the deal...

 twirl 3.4oz eau de parfum $80 @ Kate Spade

Watch the Twirl promo video below:

Alexa Chung for Madewell Available Online Now

The Alexa Chung for Madewell collection is available online now and will be hitting stores on Saturday (September 11th).  Check out my favorite three items from the collection below:

alexa chung for madewell annie blouse $128

alexa chung for madewell diana cropped jacket $188

alexa chung for madewell betty tea dress $188; 

Shop the entire collection now here.

Hair Tutorial: Side Braid Headband (Reverse French Braid)

The braided headband is one of my favorite styles because it is so incredibly versatile. I wear my hair like this when I'm heading to the gym, working, running errands or when I'm out on the town.  I switch up the placement, add curls, volume, or a other elements but this video will show you how I create the essential style element.




I use a reverse style french braid to create this look, use these steps:


(Optional) Add product to prep your hair (I opted out in this video)


1) Section off your hair so you are left with the hair in front (from your part to behind your ear)


2) Separate your hair with three small sections and begin a standard braid (crossing the right section over the center and then the left section over that piece bringing it to the middle)


3) Now instead of adding hair to each side as you would with a standard french braid, add a small section of hair to the middle section...


4) Now take the front section under the middle section and the back section under what is now the middle section


5) Add a small amount of hair to the middle section, take the front section under the middle section followed by the back section....


6) Keep repeating this pattern while you pull the braid in the direction you want to take the braid. (I took mine from my front part to behind my ear).


7) Tie off the braid with a clear elastic band at the desired length


8) Secure the braid back with a bobby pin


9) From there the styling is completely up to you! Wear it simply, with a pony, another braid, curls, or a sultry up-do. The possibilities are endless!

Willow Spring 2011

Willow Spring 2011 RTW Collection (via Style.com}

Kit Willow has created a winning collection for Spring 2011. I'm not crazy about the shoes, but I adore the asymmetrically draped cocktail dresses. I especially love the pop of yellow...

Not Your Average UGG

$200 @ Bloomingdales

If you roll your eyes every time you see a classic UGG style boot, then you might be surprised to find out that the above pictured boot is by the same brand. Personally, I love this perforated leather style, as it reminds me of a Loeffler Randall bootie that I tried on, fell in love with, and DIDN'T BUY (*tear*). (BTW: Loeffler Randall even had a perforated leather version of their tall wedge boots.) In addition to the Abilene perforated leather boots ($200) pictured above, UGG Australia have introduced a few more fashionable styles this fall to add to their already ubiquitous line-up.  Check out the Amberlee tall riding boot ($275), "Jolina" perforated leather ballet flat $100; or Highkoo II slouchy flat boots ($200); and you might be pleasantly surprised with what you find from UGG.

Alexa Chung For Madewell Sketchbook Tee

Style inspiration from Alexa Chung; Get the Look: Alexa Chung For Madewell Sketchbook Tee $48; Oversized Cardigan $88; Woodcut Print Skirt $98; all @ Madewell.

The first item from the Alexa Chung-Madewell collection is here...an adorable "hello" bat tee.  Given that Alexa Chung is constantly pictured pairing graphic tees with oversized sweaters, distressed denim, and mini skirts,  the sketchbook tee is perfect item to kick off the collection. The accessories used to style the Madewell look above are pretty sweet too... 

{clockwise) Alexa Chung for Madewell Sketchbook Hello Bat Tee $48; Gatsby Brooch $28; Chain Bib Sparkle Necklace $68; The Aberdeen Two-Tone Boot $98; all @ Madewell.


Definitely going to be hard to resist!

J. Crew Collection Video + Lookbook

The J.Crew collection never fails to tempt me. The latest lookbook has me craving a mix of luxe and grunge. Before glancing at the collection I was pretty convinced I didn't need a shearling vest, or sequined pants,  but suddenly I'm not so sure. I never thought I would need a pair of suede leggings, but J.Crew makes me feel like my life won't be complete without them.  Maybe I'll skip those, but I know I can't pass up these to-die-for suede over-the-knee boots or this gorgeous lace shift dress.  Oh and by the way does anyone care to donate to my J.Crew collection wardrobe fund? Think about it... :) In the meantime, check out the J.Crew collection video:

View the entire J.Crew Collection here.

Hair Tutorial: Fishtail Side Braid

When I find myself in need of a quick and easy hair style I tend to flock to low side-pony or various braids. This style is quick, easy, and adds a little interest to your standard braid. The great thing is this is extremely versatile. I wear my hair like this to the beach, walking my dog, and even to work. If you prefer a cleaner, dressier look add a twist in the back of your hair before starting the braid.

What I used to create this look:

Nexxus Designing Texxtur High Fashion Texture Cream

2 clear elastic hair bands

Subscribe to PBL's You Tube Channel for more tutorials :)

Viva Glam Gaga & Cyndi Lipglass + Superslick Liquid Eyeliner Swatches

Viva Glam Gaga Lipglass; Viva Glam Cyndi Lipglass $14.50 @ MAC Cosmetics 

Last Thursday I ran to my favorite M.A.C. Counter and picked up the Viva Glam Gaga and Viva Glam Cyndi lipglasses. 

The Viva Glam lipglass shades perfectly compliment their lipstick counterparts. Cyndi is a bright coral red shade, and Gaga is a cool-toned pink. 

Viva Glam Cyndi & Viva Glam Gaga Lipglass Applicators

 I think that Cyndi tends to flatter more skin tones, while Gaga tends to look too blue or even "white" on darker complexions. The lipglasses are pretty opaque with great color pay-off.  I find that I like Cyndi's gloss more than the lipstick, and Gaga's lipstick more than the gloss. Check out the swatches below:

Viva Glam Cyndi Lipglass, Viva Glam Gaga Lipglass, Viva Glam Gaga Lipstick

Viva Glam Cyndi Lipglass Swatch

Viva Glam Gaga Lipglass Swatch

I also took time to check out the Fabulous Felines collection...namely the Super Slick Liquid Eyeliner. I'm taking a pass on the vast majority of fabulous felines (I already own Mauvement, Antique Green, and Old Gold pigments).  I love eyeliner, so I couldn't resist checking out these new formula and the amazing shade spectrum.  I also happen to be very particular about liquid eyeliner...the applicator has to be precise, the formula cannot smear, run, or BUDGE, and of course the color has to be amazing.  The Super Slick Liquid Eyeliner has amazing shades to select from, and I wanted to take some of my favorite shades for a swatch and wear test before purchasing. From what I'm told, these eyeliners will now be apart of the permanent collection, so I felt it was worth testing them before handing over $17.50 for eyeliners I might not love. I tried on three, marked for glamour, signature blue, and smoky heir.  I was surprised by Marked for Glamour--it was described as a mid-tone grey with pearl. It seemed to be both versatile and unique. The shade transforms with the light adding interest...not your average grey liner!  Signature blue was my personal favorite. It reminded me of one of my favorite O.P.I. nail colors: Russian Navy! Smoky Heir was gorgeous as well...I don't think you can go wrong with this shade! 

Marked For Glamour, Signature Blue, Smokey Heir Super Slick Eyeliner Swatches

 The liners apply wet and take a minute to dry completely...once they are dry they don't budge! They are incredibly water resistant, but come off easily at the end of the day with some warm water or makeup remover...the formula just peels, flakes off with deliberate rubbing. The passed my tests with flying colors, now the hard part is choosing a shade and sticking to it...

Marked For Glamour, Signature Blue, Smoky Heir Swatch Super Slick Liquid Eyeliner $17.50 each @ M.A.C.

FTC Info: All products featured were purchased by me for personal use. I am not in any way affiliated with any of the brands mentioned.

Chanel Ink

I was completely smitten by the Chanel tattoos the models wore during the Spring-Summer 2010 show in Paris.  The hand-drawn designs were created by Peter Philips, Chanel's Global Creative Director of Makeup, and can now be yours without the pain. Get fifty-five individual temporary tattoos featuring Chanel symbols to wear however you see fit below:



Les Trompe-L'Oeil De Chanel Temporary Skin Art $75 @ Chanel