Currently Coveting: Coral Necklace

These colorful coral necklaces remind me of the coral pieces that would wash up onto the beach in Aruba. The beaches here just aren't the same, so I will use this pretty necklace as a way to transport my mind back to the picturesque beaches!

Two-Tone Coral Necklaces $40 each @ LEIF

{wedding inspiration} BHLDN moodboards

I've been playing around with the new Moodboard tool at BHLDN that allows you to upload your own photos and inspiration and mix with BHLDN products and images to help you plan your next event. When I created this moodboard, I had an outdoor wedding under an old oak tree in mind. I had images of an ethereal bride with hair and makeup similar to the Valentino models at the Fall Couture show, with soft, romantic details. My moodboard is below, click through for image sources and details:

Etheral Outdoor Wedding Under An Old Oak Tree

{ten things} bike rides, homemade ice pops, etc.

I've been consumed with shopping for the perfect bike and making homemade frozen treats this summer! The idea is to be able to work off the calories I consume! Here are ten things I am currently loving and lusting after:

1. Urban Decay Super-Saturated High Gloss Lip Color, $19 @ Sephora- I must own this in the shade 'Crush' as it seems like the perfect hot pink. The reds might be quite nice come fall. The only thing I dislike about these glossy lip pencils is the mess they make while sharpening, so I recommend keeping a sharpener just for lip pencils
2. Gorjana Graham Leather Studded Wrap Bracelet $48 @ Shopbop;  I love wrapped leather bracelets because they are so versatile and they don't get into the way like bangles do when blogging :)
3. Linus Mixte 3 Bicycle; I am obsessed with this color, and love the clean lines of the Linus frames.
4. Elizabeth & James Hali Suede Platform Wedges $275 @ Shopbop; I have a soft spot for wedge sandals, I can see myself wearing the hell out of these
5. Chalkboard State Map $45 @ etsy;  I love the idea of chalkboard maps & globes...how fun to write in your favorite places :)
6. Smells Like Couture Scarf $68 @ Juicy Couture- scarves have been my weakness, this one is pretty & doesn't cost a fortune, so count me in :)
7. Tulle Journals of a Milkmaid Beige Lace Skirt $39 @ Lulu's- I have a weakness for lace, but this skirt is a must (not to mention a cheap thrill!)
8. Fujifilm Mini Instax Instant Camera $158 @ Urban Outfitters- polaroid film has been costing me a fortune, so this might help meet my instant film demands.
9. Warehouse Ruffle Front Dress $112.05 @ ASOS; Coral is the color of the season, so this ruffle dress will fit into my rotation perfectly. I think it looks great on its own with a belt, but can easily be paired with a blazer & tights this fall.
10. Tovolo Ice Pop Molds, Set of 6 $12; Once you have an ice pop mold, the possibilities are endless...you can start with one of these 50+ recipe ideas here.
    

Valentino Couture Autumn/Winter 2011-2012

I am swooning over the backstage & beauty images from the Valentino Couture A/W 2011-12 show. The models all look so ethereal with their braided buns, wrapped crown headpieces, and blushing makeup with hints of gold. The gowns of course were fit for a princess. Some of my favorite images from the show are below:

Images via V Magazine

Images via Style.com

Images via Vogue.com

Images via Style.com

Watch the full runway show below:

{ten things} a shopping wish list

Lately I've been drawn to mostly neutrals with pops of yellow, berry, and other brights. Here are a few things, mostly accessories, I would love to pick up for myself:

1) A yellow dress (Days in Dijon Yellow Dress $49 @ LuLu's)- and one that is easy to use as a building block in a layered fall look

2) dreamcatcher necklace $35 @ Madewell- I used to have a dreamcatcher hanging over my bed when I was a girl, so I would love to slip this around my neck for nostalgic reasons

3) Fossil Vintage Reissue Messenger $89.60 @ 6PM- I love the contrast on this bag, I may have even posted it before, but now feel I have to buy it now that the price has been reduced

4) Glint Skinny belt $38 @ Anthropologie- I love the pop of yellow on this glitzy belt

5) Neutral Flats (Metal Bow Ballerina $69.50 @ Zara)- I've been searching for the perfect pair, the bow detail on these just sweetens the pot

6) NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner $23 @ NARS- I wish I could afford to own them in every color

7) Lace dress (Pins and Needles Lace Dress $79 @ Urban Outfitters)- This is so pretty and sweet, I would love to own this in a few colors.

8) Berry Clutch with chain strap (Margo Clutch $148 @ Free People)-  This is a muted shade that would be perfect for fall, but can easily be worn now

9) Jeffrey Campbell wedges- (VARGAS Wedge $155 @ Solestruck) I adore Jeffrey Campbell, these seem to be on the tamer side, but I could see myself getting a lot of wear out of these

10) Leopard Print Shoes (the leopard sunnyday sandal $198 @ Madewell)- I really need a new pair of leopard print pumps or flats for fall, and while these aren't the most practical of purchases for me, I am very tempted.

Cheap Thrills: Gap Cargo Pants

Despite the fact that I was battling a summer cold this weekend, I joined the rest of America to check out the final Harry Potter film. (So bittersweet!) Afterwards, I stopped in some nearby shops including the Gap where I spotted these cargo pants that I immediately purchased. Much more affordable than those J. Brand Cargo pants I've been coveting. I was also drawn to the harem style draped pants. This particular style seemed to be more flattering than some others I've seen about town, and were made out of a fabric that felt nice and looked expensive. After a little retail therapy and Advil Cold & Sinus I am feeling MUCH better.

Knit inset skinny cargo pants $59.95; Drapey band-waist pants  $59.95 @ Gap

 For ideas on how to wear these pieces, check out the style inspiration from celebs & style bloggers below:

Celebrity Cargo Pant Style Inspiration:

Reese Witherspoon, Rachel Bilson, Minka Kelly, & Kate Bosworth in J. Brand cargo pants

Style Blogger Harem Pants Style Inspiration:

Tanya M via Lookbook; Gold Hawk pants via Love Maegan;  Anna W via Lookbook; New Look Pants via Bloo90Fashion

To sweeten the pot a bit the Gap is offering 30% off purchases now through 7/20 when using the code GAP30 at checkout.  Happy Shopping.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale & Beauty Exclusives

Nordstrom's Anniversary sale starts today meaning the great deals and exclusive merchandise will give a fantastic excuse for a little retail therapy. This year Nordstrom has a great line up of beauty exclusives, including the M.A.C. Cine-Matic collection. Check out my favorites below: 

I normally don't buy the short handled brush sets from M.A.C. but for colorful bristles I will make an exception! The entire Cine-Matics collection is exclusive to Nordstrom. M·A·C Cine-Matics Face Brushes $49.50; Cine-Matic Sets;  M.A.C. Cine-Matic's All Over Brushes $49.50;

 

{top} Laura Mercier 'Classic Chic' Color Collection $75; Deborah Lippman 'Get This Party Started' Nail Set $42;  Smashbox Studio Stash Brush Set $36; Smashbox Studio Stash Set $59; all @ Nordstrom.

{bottom} Dior 'Miss Dior Cherie Blooming Bouquet Eau de Toilette Spray $64; Philosophy Celebrate Shower/Shampoo/Bumblebath 3-1 Set $25; NARS Bright Lights Big City Eyeshadow Palette $55;  all @ Nordstrom.

 

{top} butter LONDON '3 Free - Wallis' Nail Lacquer $14 (receive butter LONDON shade 'Yummy Mummy' free with the purchase of two butter London shades ); NARS nail polish in Matto Grosso; Vestale & Koh Lanta $17 each; all @ Nordstrom.

{bottom} Deborah Lippman nail shades in Brick House; Billionaire, Single Ladies, & Stormy Weather $16 each; @ Nordstrom.

Sultra 'Bombshell' Pink Curling Iron $99.99 (normally $130); T3 'Barbie® Loves T3' Evolution Hair Dryer $220; @ Nordstrom.

Hurry on over to Nordstrom-- the sale ends August 1st. If you purchase any of the beauty exclusives be sure to use the 'BEAUTY' promo code to get $5 shipping. Of course, if you spend over $200 shipping is free.

Tarte for True Blood

I religiously watch HBO's True Blood. When there isn't a new episode to watch, I simply pop in seasons 1-3 into my Blu-ray player.  I have also been known to wear a Merlotte's tee on occasion. Clearly, I am a bit obsessed with the series as I've even read nine out of the eleven Charlaine Harris books the series was based on. Being such a fan of the show I am tempted by Tarte's new limited edition True Blood collection.

Inspired by True Blood & Sookie Stackhouse by platinumblonde

Tarte has some of the best lip & cheek stains on the market. I am not in love with the vampy corset packaging on the eyeshadow palette, and while I am intrigued by the red cheek stain, I will probably pass on this as well just because a glittering red blush doesn't seem like my cup of tea.   Tarte's lip stains are always so moisturizing,  and I adore a red lip, so I am all for the lip stain. 

Tarte for True Blood™ Limited-Edition Natural Cheek Stain $30; @ Sephora

Tarte for True Blood™ Limited-Edition Palette ($331 Value) $52 @ Sephora;

Tarte for True Blood™ Limited-Edition LipSurgence™ Natural Lip Tint $24 @ Sephora; 

The collection is available online at Sephora right now, so head on over. 

{Something Blue} Inspired Bride

I love the idea of an all white wedding with a bright blue shoe peeking out underneath the bride's gown. Below, you'll find the bridal attire, accessories, and wedding inspiration I've been smitten with lately:

{top} Aphrodite beaded garter $78 by florrie mitton on etsy; odette crystal bobbi pin $130 @ ban.do;

{bottom} BENICARLO Wedding gown from the 2012 Collection @ Pronovias; Kobel $89 @ Nine West; Deco Beaded Clutch $180 @ BHLDN; cake by Sweet Weddings via Style Me Pretty; flowers by Floral Theory via Style Me Pretty; 

{ten things} stripes, brights, etc.

1. Bright flats: Jil Sander leather ballerina flats $425 @ Net A Porter, Tory Burch also has a nice selection...try the Eddie Ballet flat for a similar style. These liven up any ensemble, yet give your feet a bit of a rest after spending the last quarter century in heels.
2. Flattering Skinny Jeans - J.Brand 811 Mid-Rise Skinny Leg $178 -These are very flattering and can easily paired up with a fabulous top (see #8) for a complete look.
3. Chain Camera Strap: Super Fool's Gold Super Deluxe Strap $80 by Sarah Frances Kuhn, I am seriously tempted to purchase a different chain strap for each one of my various cameras and finally say goodbye to all of my boring nylon straps!
4. Coral Nail Polish-  Deborah Lippmann's Girls Just Wanna Have Fun (carefree coral creme) $16 coral nail polish puts me in a good mood even when my day is falling to pieces. I happen to really love the Lippmann collection, but I would never shy away from another brand's coral shade.
5. Ban.do Mini Heart $10 available in gold or hot pink...It is the perfect size and can be worn a thousand different ways.
6. Casual Striped Dresses- Madewell's anchors away dress $95 or American Apparel's similar style:  Knit Stripe Sweater Crew Neck Dress $65
7. Boat Shoes-  Women's Bluefish 2-Eye Boat Shoe $79 @ Sperry, I can't help but love this style, and now there are plenty of prints, colors and combinations to wear about this summer.
8. Sheer Tops- Rory Beca Jacob Trapeze Blouse $176 @ Singer 22; summerhouse blouse $110 @ J.Crew, H&M also has similar styles for considerably less
9. Clare Vivier La Pouchette $104- a neutral envelope clutch with a stripe of color is exactly what I need next time I head out. Deciding on one color
10. Fancy Striped Dresses: ribbon mirabelle dress $595 @ Kate Spade I would love to pair this dress with a pair of bright pumps and go out dancing. Of course I think it would look just as sweet with sandals for a more casual look.
    
    
    

Drugstore Detours: L'Oreal Colour Riche Le Gloss

L'Oreal Colour Riche Le Gloss in Watermelon Crush

I purchased L'Oreal's Colour Riche Le Gloss in Watermelon Crush for about $8 at my local drugstore. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of this gloss and the amount of product in the tube. I will certainly be picking up a few other shades (there is 16 to choose from). Check out the rest of my photos and swatches below: 

L'Oreal Colour Riche Le Gloss in Watermelon Crush

Le Gloss has a standard slanted applicator tip. For some reason, I feel that I reapply from tube glosses more often during the course of the day then I do with glosses with wand applicators, so I like to have a few tubes on hand to throw into my bag.

Applicator tip of L'Oreal Colour Riche Le Gloss

Not only do I love the color of Watermelon Crush, but the formula applies smooth, is not at all sticky, and makes my lips soft and supple as advertised.  This color isn't exactly opaque, but has great pigmentation. As the gloss "soaks" into your lips the color is sheered out a bit for a more natural splash of watermelon pink. It wears relatively well for a gloss, but don't expect it to wear for hours upon hours as this is not a long lasting formula.

Skin Swatch: L'Oreal Colour Riche Le Gloss in Watermelon Crush

Lip Swatch: L'Oreal Colour Riche Le Gloss in Watermelon Crush

Full Face Swatch: L'Oreal Colour Riche Le Gloss in Watermelon Crush

For more information on L'Oreal's line of Colour Riche Le Glosses visit their website. You can purchase the tubes at most drugstores and also at Amazon.com

Film Reel: Love Etc.

This film depicts true stories of love and relationships from five very different perspectives over the course of one year in New York City. The joy, the frustration, the heartbreak, and all those things that come with searching for, being in, or falling out of love are all here without any sugar coating. Watch the trailer below:





Learn more about the movie & where you can see it here.



For some reason, Love Etc., triggered my memory of Breaking Upwards, a film about a 20 something couple in New York over the course of one year experimenting with an open relationship and breaking up. Even though, this is a fictional tale, it was inspired by the couple's actual relationship and for that reason feels very authentic. If you haven't seen it, put it on your Netflix Queue immediately! The trailer is below:

M.A.C. Semi Precious Collection Haul & Swatches

M.A.C.'s Semi Precious collection was massive and upon first glance was very tempting, but in the end I came home with only three items in my bag. Below you will find photos and swatches of my mini-haul and also my thoughts on the collection (and also my reasoning for not purchasing more).

• The mineralize eyeshadows look gorgeous in the pan, but the vast majority of them are very sheer when swatched dry. The two I contemplated purchasing were Dark Indulgence and Golden Gaze. Both were lovely when I tried them, but I simply couldn't justify the $20 for any eyeshadow I didn't absolutely adore. My former self would have made a beeline for Blue Sheen (a shadow I want so badly to call Blue Steel :)), but I've sworn off blue eyeshadows for the moment because my kit is overflowing with them. Not only Blue Steel absolutely stunning in the pan, but for a Mineralize eyeshadow it has fabulous color pay-off even when applied dry.

• The split fibre brushes seem like a convenient idea, I would be curious to try the split fibre eye brushes, but oddly not with mineralize products. The 234, for instance, seems perfect for applying paint pots. I know plenty of girls who use their 217s for that very purpose...the synthetic fibres seem more suited and the other side can be used for blending.  The 235 would probably be more suitable for applying wet mineralize eyeshadows or pigments if it weren't so big, the size makes me think it would be great as a concealer brush.  Ultimately though, I feel that if the split fibre brushes were that necessary for me to have M.A.C. would make them a permanent item or at the VERY least a PRO item.

• I nearly always pass on Cremesheen Glass largely due to the fact I personally don't find them to be worth $19. Geo Pink would have been my pick had it been on "sale" (HA!)

• When I headed to the store I fully intended to purchase the Mineralize Skinfinishes in both Pearl and Crystal Pink, but when I got there and tried them, I just wasn't that impressed. The middle of Pearl interested me far more than the outer pearl shimmer color. I don't need another highlighter. I was even less impressed with Crystal Pink, and found that some of the earlier MSF's M.A.C. has come out with were far superior to the range introduced with the Semi-Precious collection.

• I was surprised by how much I loved the mineralize blushes. These were the first mineralize blushes I've purchased, and I am happy to say I don't have anything like either of them. I will say that Feeling Flush is very  pigmented on me and requires blending. I used a 116 blush to apply them, and was happy with the result, but I think had I tried to use a larger blush brush I might have wound up looking clownish! Warmth of Coral seems to have been misnamed to me. It is full on peach. I adore it all the same, and if you don't have a peach blush in your collection, I would recommend it.

• I was instantly smitten with Gem of Roses lipstick, and I have nothing like it in my collection. It is something I can see myself wearing a lot. To me this pink lipstick with yellow undertones is like a peachy pink cocktail for your lips. 
  

Check out the photos & swatches from my haul below:

Feeling Flush Mineralize Blush; Warmth of Coral Mineralize Blush

Feeling Flush Mineralize Blush; Warmth of Coral Mineralize Blush

Feeling Flush Mineralize Blush

Warmth of Coral Mineralize Blush

Swatches: Feeling Flush & Warmth of Coral Mineralize Blushes

Full Face Swatch: Warmth of Coral Blush on cheeks (paired with Gem of Roses lipstick)

Full Face Swatch: Feeling Flush Mineralize Blush

Gem of Roses Lipstick

Gem of Roses Skin Swatch

Lip Swatch: Gem of Roses Lipstick

Full Face Swatch: Gem of Roses Lipstick

Color Comparison  Swatch: Lancome's Pixel Pink (Thakoon Spring 2008) (left) vs. M.A.C. Gem or Roses (middle) vs. Cover Girl Lip Perfection Darling (right)

The collection is available at M.A.C. Cosmetics now.