Summer Dreams

Like many east coast residents, I am so ready for winter to end and summer to begin. I'm a warm weather girl at heart and can't wait for cute summery shoes, evenings dining al fresco, and sunglasses. Maybe it's wishful shopping but my purchases lately have been all about warm weather.

clockwise from top left - 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 

All Dressed Up clutch - I love a big clutch. This one is 9"x13", which is perfect for me. It's a pouch, so it's easy to carry and I love the cheeky saying imprinted on both sides. It will be fun for day or evening.

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick in Orchid - Fuchsia is always a go to color for me when it comes to lipstick. This new line from Revlon doesn't contain wax, it comes in lots of colors (Orchid is my fave) and I really like the creamy texture.

Silver Brow Bar sunglasses - Since the designer version was out of my price range, I snagged this look for less pair on Amazon. I also love the white and gold version.

Shay Lace Up Flats - I've been eying these flats for over a month now. I could decide if I should spend the money but I go to the site a few times a week to make sure they are still available. For some time they were only available in black and the gray version was just released. I had to snatch them up before they were gone.

Kaia Pendant Necklace - The Moroccan look of this necklace by Stella and Dot is perfect for summer. I picture it with a flowy, white top or a colorful sundress. The photo does not do it justice. The stones have a opalescent quality to them.

Metal graphic tee - I'm a sucker for a funny graphic tee. This one is so me. I'm a rocker girl to my core but I have a soft side. This tee will be a fun addition to my summer wardrobe or great under my tuxedo jacket for evening.

What items are on your spring/summer wish list?

What I Want - Fall 2014

For the last few seasons I've created a board on Pinterest and saved my must have items for the seasons. These are the items I really want and are on the top of my list. They will be the first items to get my fashion budget.



Click on the photos above for buying information.

Matte Wine Lipstick - I'm loving matte lips right now and as you know I'm a huge fan of the Maybelline Color Sensational line. They just came out with some of the colors in a matte finish and I love the wine shade, Divine Wine.

Tweed Moto Jacket - Moto jackets are so versatile. I have traditional leather options. This tweed version adds a polished twist to the tough moto silhouette.

Fun Graphic Tees - Graphic t-shirts with cool sayings and phrases are on my must have list. When I spied this t-shirt, I had to have it. A shirt that says, I EAT GLITTER FOR BREAKFAST is so me.

Pointed Toe Loafers - Heels are great but I constantly find myself gravitating toward my flats and low heel options. The pointed toes bring more sophistication to these loafers.

Leopard Clutch - Leopard is a fall trend but I've had an oversize statement clutch on my must list for several seasons and haven't found one that's perfect. This one from etsy is fantastic.

Faux Leather Midi - I've been hunting for a midi length leather or faux leather skirt for a while now. Short skater skirts are easy to find but those don't work for me. This length is perfect. It's on the top of my list.

Lip Color for Non-Lipstick Girls

I've loved makeup as long as I can remember. One of my favorite childhood memories was trying on every color in the rainbow (she had tons of makeup) at my cousin Laura's vanity. My lipstick/lip color collection is a bit crazy. I don't shy away from bright colors on my lips, in fact a bright lip is part of my every day makeup. In the summer I gravitate toward more sheer color. My makeup is lighter and I never go for heavy color when it's beach and BBQ time. I've gotten questions from readers on finding sheer lip color. The challenges lie in finding a lip color that doesn't feel too heavy, isn't color saturated and is easy to apply (no lip liner or mirror needed). I thought I'd share a few of my favorites with you. They are in all price points and come in lots of colors.





Click the photos for buying information.



My favorites include balms, stains, and tints. Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter has only be out about a year. It's a great product that allows you to wear very sheer color if you wish, or build it up for more solid look. It feels like a balm and comes in tons of colors. Nivea  Kiss of Protection stays in my beach bag all summer. I love the way it feels and the SPF 30. Fresh Sugar Lip Balm is super silky smooth and comes in lots of colors. It's a bit pricey at $24 but worth it. I've kept Rosebud Salve in my makeup bag for years. This minted version is a new favorite. It is a true balm with only a tiny hint of sheer color. I've used Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey since the 90's. It's highly praised as a universally flattering shade (check out this photo). It looks like a gothic burgundy in the tube but goes on like a pretty sheer mauve to deep red and is buildable. Carmex has been around forever. I love their orange lip conditioner. There isn't any color, it's in an easy to apply tube and it has an orange flavor (like baby aspirin).  Benefit added Posie Tint to their Benetint line a few years ago. Benetint is a deep red and some people feel it's too dark. Posie Tint is a pale pink stain that you can use on your lips or your cheeks. It lasts most of the day and you can just add clear balm over it. Burt's Bees tinted lip balm comes in pretty colors, it has a nice minty flavor and is super moisturizing. Maybelline's Baby Lips come in a rainbow of colors (clear to fuchsia). They have great flavors and it goes on just like you favorite balm. The colors are sheer and work well for someone who doesn't love lipstick.

Do you have a favorite non-lipstick color?  Share it with us!

Only a few more days to enter the giveaway from

Skirt the Issue!

Fashion and Style Quote of the Day (#12) - Drinks and Lipstick

 There are days when only certain things will perk up my mood. Those are the days when I call my closest friends, who always make me laugh, long for the end of the day to see {msL} because she always makes me feel better, make a favorite cocktail and put on my favorite lipstick. For some people that last one seems silly or doesn't fit them.  For me it works every time. If I feel good about myself then that makes me happier. Bright lipstick works every time. It can make a simple outfit more polished. Great lipstick with a t-shirt somehow seems fancier. It's a simple tool in your arsenal.

I'm in love with all of the bright lipsticks out this year.  My latest obsession is the Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids collection. I love all of the colors and already own many of them.

This post on Beautezine has great swatches.

I even wore Hot Plum (far right in the photo above) on my wedding day (photo below).  It's a fantastic bright fuchsia shade.

A great way to jazz up your favorite sweatshirt and cargo jacket. I'm sure the necklaces didn't hurt either.

Now for the drink. On our wedding day we chose to serve beer (2 of our favorites), wine (red and white) and two signature cocktails. My personal favorite was the Lucky 13 (vodka cherry limeade). We also created a drink called the  Rock Star. It's a rum and passion fruit drink. The Lucky 13 was by far the most popular (reddish pink drink below).

 

Lucky 13 (vodka cherry limeade)

vodka
lime juice (fresh is best but bottled is good too for simplicity)
Monin cherry syrup (best I've found, don't use grenadine, it's not the same)
Sprite (or any lemon lime soda)
ice

Fill a rocks glass with ice.

Add 2 oz of vodka
Add two splashes of lime juice (about 1/4 oz, more if you like it tart)
Add 1/2 oz of cherry syrup
Fill the glass with Sprite and stir.

ENJOY!


It's a great summer time drink.  You can make some alterations to the recipe if you are calorie conscious. Use club soda or sugar free Sprite in place of regular Sprite.  There are also sugar free cherry syrups available but we chose Monin because it doesn't have a fake cherry flavor. You could also use cherry juice, like Ocean Spray or Old Orchard Very Cherrie. If you substitute juice you will need to alter the proportions.

If you have a down day anytime soon, try a little pick up. Grab your favorite drink and put on some fun lipstick.  Thanks Elizabeth.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Update Your Look for Under $50

Every season, I want a few new items to help me update my look and I know I'm not alone.  Lots of times, my budget doesn't allow for a ton of new purchases.  I search for items that will freshen my outfits and make them feel new. Remixing items you already have is also a great way to update your look but we'll talk about that in a future post. My spring budget is small this year, due to wedding expenses and other plans for music festivals and our yearly beach vaca.  I'm going to add a few inexpensive items to my wardrobe to update clothes I already own.

Click above for buying information.

For less than $50, you could grab a fun statement necklace, a bright lip color and fun nail polish.  I love these combinations.

A sheer peach lip, a bright orange necklace and a turquoise nail just scream summer to me.  Pair them with shorts and a simple white t-shirt or a pretty sundress. Total - $24.29

A bright fuchsia lip, a tough but pretty ombre chain, and white nails are an 80's throw back. Add some slouchy, ripped jeans, a loose blouse and sandals for an easy weekend look. Or pair them with a simple dress for a no thought office outfit. Total - $17.98

A necklace like this one calls for a blank canvas.  I'd pair it with an LBD for evening or crisp white, men's style dress shirt for day.  The coral nails and pink lip are great additions without going over the top.
Total - $45.58

I'm picturing this combo for my beach trip.  A maxi skirt, some sandals and a pretty tank would be perfect for this fantastic turquoise necklace, plum lip and silver nails.  I wore this exact lip color on my wedding day.  It's an amazing pinkish purple that is bold but pretty. A metallic nail is a great compliment but it doesn't compete. Total - $36.49

How are you going to update your outfits for spring and summer, in a frugal way?

It's Ok to Change Your Mind

Thank you all for indulging me with so many wedding related posts over the past few weeks.  With less than a month until the big day, it's all I can think about. This past weekend, I went to visit my mom for a wedding dress fitting.  I've mentioned that my Mom is making my dress. She's been working hard. I had a great weekend with my Mom, that included a trip to one of my favorite antique stores and lots of wedding talk.

A peek at the back of my dress, vintage pin I'm planning to wear in my hair, and my shoes (a bargain from Neiman Marcus Last Call)

 One of the best lessons I've learned through wedding planning is that you have to stay true to yourself and your inner voice.Over the course of planning, I've changed my mind about our location, my dress, our food, my jewelry, and other things. I'm usually very decisive and I have been when it comes to my overall vision.  The idea of an intimate wedding and an amazing party with great drinks, food and music. Changing my mind has been a bit out of character but I know now that we'll have the day we truly want.

Red or Fuchsia lipstick?

A few more feather projects for the big day.

My Search for a Good Long Wearing Lipstick

About a year ago I realized that I should start searching for a good long wearing lipstick.  I wanted one that would stand up to our wedding day of eating and drinking and wouldn't leave bright lipstick all over {msL} every time we kissed. I thought I'd have to go with a stain to get what I wanted. Frankly, I've always hated long wearing lipsticks.  I've tried a few but I've either returned them or tossed them.  They didn't live up to their claims, many left my lips feeling tight, flaky and gross.  Very few had no transfer when eating, drinking or kissing. If they did, I had to constantly apply a second step balm or gloss and then my lips got this weird texture as the day went on. My hopes weren't high. I got suggestions from a few friends. I didn't love the ones I tried and most of them didn't have great color choices.  Spending a ton on a high end version didn't seem practical because I didn't think I'd wear it after our wedding day.  About a week ago I saw and pinned this article from Everyday with Rachel Ray.

Everyday with Rachel Ray isn't known for their beauty tips, however, I thought that a group of ladies who are constantly eating and drinking for their jobs might have some insight on lipstick that can stand up to lots of use.  They rated Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Suede lipstick, their best drugstore lipstick.  I checked out the Revlon color options. I prefer lipstick to a gloss for my wedding day. So I decided to try Revlon over their two other drugstore picks, L'Oreal Paris Colour Caresse Shine Stain and Wet n' Wild Megalast Liquid Lip Color. I'm not a fan of liquid lip color.

I started by scrubbing my lips with a wash cloth to remove any dry skin.  I decided not to use any balm or primer and just put the lipstick on my naked lips.

 

It took about thirty minutes for the lipstick to stop feeling tacky. It was still a little sticky when I pressed my lips together but that went away if I licked my lips. I tested transfer by drinking out of a can.  I was shocked, no transfer!  About an hour and half after applying the lipstick we had lunch.  I had a veggie burger with cheese.  No lipstick on the bun (which has happened before, if I forgot to wipe off my lipstick before eating) and no signs of lipstick on my straw.

This is what my lipstick looked like after eating and drinking.  Not perfect but still pretty impressive. There is some fade but it's presentable. I tried a couple of other tests.

I kissed {msL}on the cheek.  No sign of lipstick anywhere!  This looks promising for our wedding day.

I tried the napkin test.  I pressed pretty hard to see if there was any transfer. I didn't wipe or scrub but pressed.

Nothing!  No lipstick at all.  I couldn't even see a faint trace of color.  Even after a veggie cheese burger! Oil is usually the death of long wear lipsticks.

Color me sold on Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Suede lipstick!  It's pretty great for one step long wearing lipstick. Below are my pros and cons. I purchased Trendsetter which is a vivid red color. 


PROS

• One step application.
• No flaky or lumpy texture.
• Lasted through eating and drinking.
• No transfer onto a napkin, even after eating.
• No transfer onto my Honey when kissing.
• Can be used with lip liner. I would suggest clear if you want to avoid color transfer.
• Lasted all day with just minor deterioration.

CONS

• Takes about thirty minutes to set.
• Feels smooth and moisturizing going on but dries out like a matte lipstick.
• Dark colors last but I've read that the lighter colors don't last.  I haven't tried any light colors myself.
• Lips feel sticky when pressed together.

I'm going to keep trying long wearing options but I really like Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Suede lipstick as a possibility for my wedding makeup. Have you tried any long wearing lip colors that you love?

UPDATE:  I tried Muse, which is a bright pink.  It lasted just as well as Trendsetter did.  I've worn both shades to work and they've lasted most of the day.  I'm pretty sure this is going to be my wedding day lipstick.  Thanks Revlon!

I'm Obesessed Thank You Very Much - Neon Accessories

In the 80's neon was a huge trend. It was everywhere.  I even owned a pair of neon pink tights and some truly horrid neon blue mascara that I wore constantly. The neon trend is back again. I won't be reliving the mascara but we all made bad fashion choices in high school.  Come on, you know you did too. I do still love a pop of neon in accessories.  They are a fun way to wear the trend without looking like an 80's flashback or a fashion trend victim. Accessories are a simple way to introduce some color to your outfit and try out the trend without having to dive in too deep.  Neon next to black or white is a stand out.

Neon accessories by Real Girl Runway

You all know I don't believe in spending a ton on trendy pieces. They usually aren't something that will stand the test of time.  You'll be tired of them in a season or two. Finding those trendy pieces for less is key. The necklace is the most expensive in this lot but that's because I couldn't include the necklace I really love in this collage (stupid Internet programs). Below is a necklace made and sold by  Colorblock Shop on etsy.com. This is only one of some fantastic neon pieces listed. You have to check them out. Necklaces are made to order and this one sells for $36. It's such a fantastic piece and it's affordable.
  

Do you like the neon trend or are you going to skip this one?

Neon Accessories

The Color of Love...

Red and pink have always been part of Valentine's Day for me. I remember sitting for hours cutting paper hearts out of red and pink construction paper.  I think it was just an excuse to be creative. I created all sorts of decorations.  Both red and pink symbolize love but red represents passion and pink represents romance and charm. They are both great colors alone or even better when worn together.

Pink Lip - Maybelline Fuchsia Fever

Red Lip - Maybelline Red Revival

 

There are times when I would have thought that this outfit was too matchy matchy but some how it all works together.The colors in the skirt work with the rest of the pieces to create a combo I love. It's so bright and fun, it makes me happy and isn't that what fashion is all about?

Sweater - Target (no longer available), Skirt - Lane Bryant (no longer available), Shoes - Coclico via Simply Soles, Scarf - Goodwill, Belt - Target, Tights - Avenue, Bracelets - vintage, gift, Until There's a Cure, and DIY (red beaded), Earrings - Sakes off 5th, Watch - Timex (gift)

My photographer Honey wasn't available to take my picture, so my wonderful co-worker helped me out.

I've mentioned that I'm on the quest for the perfect red lip.  The whole truth is that I'm a bit obsessed with all kinds of lipsticks, lip glosses, lip balms, and on and  on.  I was thinking that I should count how many colored lip products I own.  I'm a little scared to do that but at least I know I have a bit of a problem. Many years ago my friend Kim and I stood in the bathroom at work, after we both applied lipstick, and counted the number of lip colors in each of our bags. If I remember correctly we tied at eight each. Both of us have the habit of starting the day with one color and changing it up as our mood changes during the day. Hey a girl needs variety.

Before I started on my red lip quest, I owned one red lipstick and one red lip balm.  I now own ten. My Mary Kay Rockin' Red lip gloss isn't in the picture below.

Clockwise from the top: Mary Kay Tinted Lip Balm in Cherry, Revlon Colorburst True Red, Maybelline Red Revolution, L'Oreal Target Red, Maybelline Red Revival, MAC Ruby Woo, Revlon Cherry Ice, Sephora Collection Hot Tango, Smashbox Legendary

The pinks are fast approaching the same crazy level.  There are six in the picture below but I've added three more since I took this photo. My three new colors are Maybelline Fuchsia Fever, Maybelline Fifth Ave Fuchsia, and L'Oreal Heavenly Berry and I'm sure that won't be the end. I love bright pink lipstick. 

Clockwise from the top: Mary Kay Tinted Lip Balm Peony, L'Oreal Sea Fleur, Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter Lollipop, Revlon Colorburst Candy Pink, Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter Cotton Candy, Mary Kay Tinted Lip Balm Berry

My post today is part of two blogger challenges.  I'm participating in Everybody Everywear's Red and Pink challenge and the Pretty Shiny Sparkly's Bloggers Do it Better Red challenge.

 

The Light from Broadway and Sequins

On Tuesday night we went to the Kennedy Center, with our good friends, Kevin and Joey to see La Cage aux Folles.  It was such a fun show and we had a great evening with our friends.  You've gotta love a show in such an historic venue that is so irreverent. I took a few pics with my camera phone.  I didn't bring my big camera because I didn't want to have to lug it around. I wore my new sheer maxi, a sequin sweater and a basic tee.  I wasn't thrilled with my top but it gave me the all black look I was going for with the outfit. Now I'm on the hunt for a top that will complete the look.

Sweater - Kohl's (no longer available), Shirt - Vera Wang for Kohl's (no longer available, similar here), Skirt - Bobeau (Nordstrom), Shoes - Coclico (Simply Soles Georgetown), Bag - vintage, Necklace worn as a Bracelet - Saks off 5th, Earrings - Target, Watch - Timex (gift), Bangles - vintage from my Mom

This was a fun and easy outfit.  I would have liked for the sweater to be a bit shorter or maybe I should have worn a belt. I'll try that next time. I'm sad that you can't see my great shoes.  But you can see what they look like in this post.

You all know I'm testing out red lipsticks.  I promise there is a post coming. Last night I tried out, Sephora Collection in Hot Tango 05.  When I got home, I looked in the mirror and had a revelation.  A month ago, I would have tried that lip color on and immediately dismissed it.  Wearing red more often has made me more comfy with these bright reds.

My Honey affectionately calls my friend Joey, my Boyfriend.  She says I tell him more than some of my girlfriends and I'd prefer to shop with him that most girls I know. That's true. He's a great friend and I adore him. It's also worth mentioning that Joey has lost 150lbs + over the last few years.  He's amazing! 

I also adore Joey's partner Kevin.  I've known Kevin since he was sixteen. He worked for me when he was in high school. I can't believe we've known each other for over twenty years!

She may kill me for posting this picture but it turned out so great, I have to... Here is a photo of my Honey and I.  I think it's a great picture of her.

Wear the Trend - Orange You Lovely!

A month or so ago, Pantone issued their Spring 2012 fashion trend colors. The top color is Pantone color 17-1463, Tangerine Tango.  I love me some orange, whether it's peach, tangerine, salmon, or coral. Any color that has those orangey hues works for me.  I know you all don't feel that way but I'm here to tell you that anyone can rock orange. Even if you don't want to wear a top, pants or skirt in orange, you can incorporate it into your wardrobe.

Essie polish in Too Too Hot (no longer available)

Beach outfit, including orangey tank

There are so many easy way to incorporate orange into your wardrobe. If you aren't ready for a full outfit, you can try accessories like a bag or shoes. Try just one piece like a simple tee, even a cardigan.

Orange You Lovely by realgirlrunway featuring collezio watches

You can even go for orange lips, if you have the skin tone or orange nails.

Mary Kay Lip Color - Nourishine Lip Gloss in Mango Tango and Creme Lipstick in Sunny Citrus

Essie polish in Meet Me at Sunset

No matter what you chose, have fun with it!! You can wear the trend. Just make it work for you.

Picture Preview

One of the things I love most about my iPhone is taking pictures and sharing them with friends, family and all of my blog and interweb friends, via facebook and twitter. Instagram is my favorite app. You can alter your pics to look vintage, black and white, and even like a Polaroid. I've even used some of them here in the blog.

I took a few over the last few days and will be writing some posts soon featuring these subjects.  I thought I'd give you a sneak peek.

From the top left - Getting ready for the Goodwill Swap.
My swap finds.
Red lipsticks to try while searching for the perfect red lip.
One of my first trys, Maybelline Red Revival.
Revlon Color Stay Longwear nail enamel, supposed to last 11 days, we'll see.
A weekend DIY, the beginning of black glitter boots.

If you don't have an iPhone or Instagram, you can check out my latest pictures on Instagrid.  Just click here to check them out.

I can't wait for you all to see the posts I'm cooking up for you.

New Year's Wishes

The term resolution is daunting.  It's always seems like pressure and not in a good way.  To me it is similar to the times that my parents or someone of authority would tell me that I had to do something. It just makes me want to do the opposite.  A few years ago a close friend suggested using the term, New Year's Wishes instead of Resolutions.  It sounded so much more appealing.  A wish is like a gift.  You can make it a goal and if you can't quite reach it, then you don't feel like you've failed.  After all it's a wish. The promise of good things to come.

I thought I'd share some of my New Year's Wishes with you all.  In a way it will help me to stay accountable and it will make them feel more real. These are in no particular order.

• Save and Invest More - This year I've been focusing on getting my financial life in better order, saving more and putting aside money for our upcoming wedding. I've also renewed my interest in using coupons. I'd like to get more organized with my coupon shopping. I'd also like to do some investing with my Honey in some stocks. I think it would be a good project and a way to earn some extra money for the wedding.  

• Eat Healthier and Exercise More - I want to be healthier and in better shape for my life and our wedding (April 2013).  Health is a priority for me due to my family history and my life in general.  Wedding dress shopping is scary to me. Dress sizes are not forgiving and run small. The standard is that you need order your wedding dress six to eight months prior to your wedding.  That deadline gives me a timeline of August to October to get myself in a bit better shape. I'm planning to work harder at choosing the most healthy food and by taking our fuzzy kids for walks regularly (as a start).

• Organize my Exploding Wardrobe - I have some amazing clothes and shoes.  I am terrible about holding onto items because it seems that every time I get rid of something, I decide I want to wear it again.  My wish is to cull through my closet and storage area. I need to box up items that are out of date (for now) or that don't fit.  Get rid of terribly dated pieces that aren't vintage quality and trash anything that's too worn. I can also swap or donate items that just don't work or that I don't want to keep. There are a few swaps coming up. I'll be posting about swaps tomorrow. They are great ways to purge a little.

• Find the Perfect Shade of Red Lipstick (for me) - I love bold lips but the perfect shade of red lipstick seems to be an unattainable beauty item. I can rock fuchsia but when I wear red I always feel like my lips are overpowering my face. Finding the perfect classic red for me would be fantastic. I'd love to find a bargain shade but to be honest if I find a pricey brand that's perfect, I'll take the plunge because I know I'll wear it often.  

• Give Back - Volunteering has always been part of my life. Unfortunately, when things get hectic, I don't do it as much as I'd like.  This year I want to look for new ways to give back and volunteer. I've already signed on to help a local high school with their Cinderella project (free prom gowns for needy girls). I'm sure I can find some great ways to help in my community.  

What are your New Year's Wishes?