Grace

Love black and white photos…

via Andrea Klarin

Twist It Up- Fashion Week Do It Yourself Hair Tips

I got this in my Inbox and I really want to try it with my own hair. The bun just looks so chic and still young.

Wanna try it?  Below are step by step tips to create this great look- perfect for a night out or the office.

1. Make a side part and take three inches of the hair closest to the front and pin to the side.
2. Take another three inches from the crown of the head, right behind the section of hair you just marked off and pin that to the side as well.
3. You should be left with two sections of hair on both sides of your head.
4. Take the hair from the right section, and twist hair into a low ponytail, you should go from your temple to the nape of your neck.
5. Take the hair from the left section, and do the same but make sure you keep hair on an angle.
6. You should be left with 2 “rolls” on each side of you head.
7. With the hair in the low ponytail, you should coil pieces together and allow them to fold into each other, just use pins to hold hair in place.
8. Take the top section from the crown of your head and twist that piece loosely like a rope and pin it to your head.
9. Take the last section of hair and fold the hair into the rolls with your finger and pin all loose pieces with your finger.

A few more eBay buys

Another waist-cinching retro-inspired belt and couple of other bags that I bought on eBay came today. When I was looking at the bags, the seller had them in multiple colors. Since the styles are so girlie, I purposely stayed away from black and brown and got them in light colors instead. The peach quilted bag is just a fun one to use on weekends. The light blue one is quite roomy, I’m thinking maybe I can even use it as a diaper bag, lol.

By the way, darlings, I’m going to have a new exciting giveaway for you this week. Stay tuned!

25% off at Gap!

I was thinking of getting a couple of skirts from Gap for the winter. I love skirts that are cute and still versatile as I’m trying to incorporate more separates into my wardrobe. Good thing I held out a little. They are having a 3 Day Event: Get 25% off your entire purchase! Enter code SAVE25 at checkout. Hurry, offer ends 9/30/09.

These can pretty much go with anything and everything. And they are so easy to be styled up with tights, boots, blouses, blazers, etc, etc.

Women: Yoked skirt – true black $54.50 $40.88

Women: Wool blend pleated skirt – plaid $54.50 $40.88

Women: Plaid sailor pencil skirt – gray plaid $54.50 $40.88

Women: Pleated striped skirt – green stripe $49.50 $37.13

Tough gals

Seems that there’s no letting up on the tough glam trend this fall. Oh all the studs, chains, buckles, and zippers you can possibly want!

DSQUARED2 Women’s Bloody Mary Pump $1,040.95

Giuseppe Zanotti Caged Open-Toe Ankle Boots $995

Balmain Giuseppe Zanotti for Balmain Swarovski Crystal Sandals $1,745.00 $872.50

Alexander Wang Buckled leather ankle boots $690

Camilla Skovgaard Satin chain-embellished sandals $440

See by Chloe Studded leather ankle boots $495

Pour La Victoire Women’s Paley Sandal $375.95

Pour La Victoire Tia Black Heels $230

Colonial Madness by LD Tuttle Studded Boot $228

Pour La Victoire Women’s Rene Peep Toe Platform $184.90

Ash Impuls Suede Booties with Buckled Straps $217

Rock & Republic Women’s Nika Studded Pump $278.90

75% off at LoveMyShoes again!

Darlings, I have a coupon code for 75% off at LoveMyShoes.Com for you again! Use BIG75OFF now through October 3rd to get 75% off (no kidding!) on selected items. Last time I had the code, me and my cousin kinda went crazy with it. The discount’s so steep you can get a little impulsive, like getting something really trendy if you want.

Dollhouse Tosha $51.98 $12.99

J Loren S140-1-09 $51.98 $12.99

$62.98 $15.75

Nana Boston-Sequin $62.98 $15.75

Dollhouse Rachel $51.98 $12.99

Juicy Couture Black Stone Openwork Earrings

Juicy Couture Black Stone Openwork Earrings $115 $55. Wow so exquisite these earrings.  For some reason they remind me of the elaborately ornate Chinese lanterns made of shiny dark wood and jade that my grandmother had at her place.

Cheap Monday pencil skirt

Cheap Monday Pencil Skirt $110 $77. Cheap Monday takes the pencil skirt to a much cooler sportier level with the suspenders and side pockets. Adore it!

Ask Hadley and she’ll give it to you straight

I always enjoy Hadley Freeman’s column Ask Hadley in The Guardian. her sharp wit is incomparable. This week’s column made me almost bust a gut.

Why do so many models and celebrities suddenly have pixie haircuts? Was a memo sent out?

Sally, London

Yes. And Ask Hadley has (through means that may have been sly, but never stooped to phone-tapping level) received a copy of that memo. It reads a little something like this – hit it!

“Dear ladies who make their livings out of their looks, here is a totally hot new haircut that will emphasise to the world that you have fantastic cheekbones and also are incredibly thin, because anyone else would look like Augustus Gloop with that ‘do. And if that wasn’t enough to have you hacking at your hair, here’s the cherry on this non-carb cake: it will also make you look a lot younger – childlike, even. That is a good thing, of course, as ‘childlike’ and ‘thin’ have become almost synonymous: the more thin one is, the more childlike one appears, ergo, childlike is good. Happy hacking!”

Celebrities like to feel that they are special, that there is something innate to them that lifts them above the peasant-like crowd who fly economy class and have fat arses. Some celebs think this “specialness” is about their talent. Others think it comes from their lifelong feeling that they are somehow “different”, a point they are fond of reiterating in interviews. Few of them put it down to their willingness to whore themselves out emotionally 24/7, and imbue their children with chronic insecurities, eating disorders and drug addictions as they grow up believing that success is measured in OK! magazine covers.

Anyway, the point is they like to know that they live in an unreachable ivory tower, away from the clamouring mob. VIP rooms and private member clubs can serve that purpose but, my goodness, have you seen who they are letting into Soho House these days? Very bridge and tunnel. Pixie haircuts (like Halle Berry’s, right), however, serve this purpose marvellously because only those willing to forgo bread for, like, ever, and who regard a plate of edamame as a really great hot lunch in the name of being deemed a “Bathing Beauty!” by Look magazine will be able to carry this haircut off. The pixies may see their cut as a sign that they are special, they are strong. Others may see it as proof that this person is probably a bit annoying. Either way, it’s a useful visual indicator for everyone.

If matchy-matchy is now a trend, as I’m told it is, then why doesn’t my girlfriend let me wear my denim jacket with my jeans?

Brian, Manchester

Um, wait. I’m sorry, I need a minute to recover. Your email has overwhelmed me with its bonkersness. So, you have heard that something is “a trend”, and you think that this means it is inherently now good – so good, in fact, that it could somehow allow you to wear two pieces of denim together. Your girlfriend controls your wardrobe like, what, your mother? And now you have decided to tell the world that you long to do the double-denim look. I’m sorry, Brian, but are you unwell? You obviously need many answers, and I don’t feel sufficiently qualified to answer them. But hey, I’m a professional, and if this somehow saves the public from seeing someone go double denim, then I shall stoically tackle your questions.

Look, Brian, there is no excuse for double denim. I wouldn’t care if there was a law saying that everyone should work the matchy-matchy look; this does not mean you should start dressing like a rock band from Estonia in the 80s. “Matchy-matchy” refers to matching colours, not matching fabrics. Key point. Another key point is that just because a couple of designers promote a look does not mean it is good – and certainly not, contrary to what some magazines might say, “essential”. It just makes it the look those designers are trying to make you buy. Different.

Moreover, why in the name of all that is sane and obvious do you want to do the double denim look anyway? Do you think it looks good? Do you own a mirror? Brian, dear heart, take note. It’s a big ol’ world out there, full of fabrics other than denim. Live a little!

And finally, I know I may have joshed you a little earlier about your clearly saint-like girlfriend controlling your wardrobe but, on reflection, I think that’s probably a good thing – and, incidentally, she is always, always right. Hey, you asked for it, pal.

Deal Alert – 40% off at The Limited

Awesome deal at The Limited — The Limited Friends and Family 9.25.09 – 9.27.09. 40% off using code:478!! Don’t miss out! I’m browsing the site and finding myself wanting many many things.

The jackets for the fall caught my eyes first, they look great in a timeless feminine way.

Ruffle Wrap Lapel Jacket $148 $88.80, lightly textured tweed jacket with a round collar transitions into a beautiful cascading ruffle.

Polished Collar Jacket $128 $76.80. Love the voluminous sleeves and ruffled collar. Very retro-chic.

Elastic Sleeve Jacket $158 $94.80. The fit looks amazing, and more importantly, the ruching on the sleeves are so unique, definitely adds an interesting flare to a classic blazer.

The Limited always has dresses that are perfect for the office. And if you add some accessories, they can also take you straight into the evening.

Pocketed Tube Dress $79.50 $47.70. Love pretty folds on the bust and cascading pleats below the waist. Hip pockets add a modern touch.

Pleat Sleeve Dress $69.50 $41.70. A light and crisp dress in a flattering shade of blue that is pretty seasonless.

Ruffle Neck Shirt Dress $79.50 $47.70. You’ll definitely command attention if you have a presentation to make to your clients.

Two in One Dress $79.50 $47.70. It’s made of a light stretch weave to fit the body better. Pleats on and below the waist add crisp details.

One Shoulder Dress $89.50 $53.70. I absolutely love this dress in the vibrant red shade. The draping and folding at the front are absolutely gorgeous. It’s perfect for cocktail parties.

Some of the handbags are great for work and everyday light in clean lines and soft shades.

Faux Python Satchel $59.50 $35.70. This textured bag is embellished with puckers near the base and straps that fit over your shoulder. Silver hardware.

Crossover Pocket Hobo $49.50 $29.70. The crossover with the chunky buckle is such an interesting design. Without it this hobo would be a boring one.

Metallic Python Tote $59.50 $35.70. This bag has a large interior that can hold everything from file folders to an overnight kit. Mercury-colored hardware accents. The main compartment closes with a magnetic snap.

The jewelry looks really awesome, more expensive than they really are.

Rocker Necklace $39.50 $23.70. Two strands of densely packed “leaves” add a dramatic edge to your outfit.

Dripping Coins Chain Bracelet $24.50 $14.70. The chain mail and the dangling “coins” look very cute together.

Glitz Swag Earring $19.50 $11.70. I’ve always liked monochrome jewelry, very simple and yet dramatic.

A good nude pump

I keep thinking I need a good pair of classic nude pumps but I usually ignore them because my eyes are easily distracted by more eye-catching shoes. But we know how important a pair of nude pumps play in our wardrobe.   This inexpensive option from Jessica Simpson looks awfully tempting. I don’t own any Jessica Simpson shoes yet, but I’ve heard the quality is pretty decent. Jessica Simpson Women’s Vanity Pump Pink $79.95 on sale for $31.99 at ShoeMall.com!

Steve Madden bags

Just got this awesome coupon code for Steve Madden’s bags, some of which are looking pretty good for the fall. Take 20% Off all Steve Madden Handbags Using Code HANDBAGS20 Now through 9/30! I’m quite liking the studded hobo bag. And I’m all about the slouchy bags lately.

BSTUDLOYAL BLACK $88 $70.40.

BLOYAL YELLOW PARIS $78 $62.40

BBUNNY BLACK $59.95 $47.96

BSOPH TAUPE $88 $70.40

BROXY BLACK SEQUIN $38 $30.40. Sequins are still huge this fall. This is a really fun and inexpensive one for a night out.

BGLITZ GOLD $12

New ebay buys

I’ve been really good NOT spending a copious amount of time on eBay bidding on everything in sight for a couple of months now. It hasn’t been that difficult, especially since I can’t wear any “normal” clothes. Well, I thought I’d treat myself. I got a few bags and a couple of belts. Yesterday, two of them arrived

I want more waist-cinching belts for once I get my waist back, especially retro-inspired ones like this butterfly buckle belt. I remember I had a bunch of elastic belts in my early teen years. Really wish I still had them.

Love this pink leather quilted bag! It’s super light and roomy. Seems like I’m really into pink handbags lately, lol.

Chanel Giveaway @ ideeli-Will happen in 24hrs

Darlings, ideeli will be doing a Chanel giveaway in the next 24 hours! ideeli has partnered with CHANEL to give you a lift. . . naturally. ULTRA CORRECTION LIFT from CHANEL is a revolutionary formula that not only boosts levels of collagen and elastin, but also restores tensin, a critical protein that is naturally abundant in young skin, giving it the firmness, lift and shapely contours inherent in a youthful appearance. ULTRA CORRECTION LIFT is targeted to help restore tensin production to optimal levels. Skin naturally achieves a visibly firm and revitalized look. Facial contours appear redefined and lifted from within. Sounds awesome right? And now for the first time Chanel will be giving away a select number of gift bags that will include Lifting Firming Day Cream SPF15, ULTRA CORRECTION LIFT Sculpting Firming Concentrate, COCO MADEMOISELLE Eau de Parfum and more! It’s true that beauty is more than skin deep, but it’s also true that vibrant, youthful skin is something deeply beautiful.   Keep your eyes peeled.  Join ideeli now if you haven’t!

Pretty flats

When fall rolls around and as I pack away all my summer sandals, I always like to update my flat collection. Especially this year I’ve been living in flats. I’m looking for rich colors, soft materials, eye-catching embellishments.

Jeffrey Campbell Suede Zipper Ruffle Ballet Flats $115. I’m really loving the ruffle trend on shoes this year. It’s totally appealing to my inner girliness. Love these suede ballet flats with layered ruffles in bright pink.

Bloch Patent leather ballet flats $165 $99. Bloch ballet flats are simply one of the best, comfortable, durable and classic. I just love the unique candy-like orange shade.

Maloles Zoe satin flats $290 $174. So pretty and delicate.

F Troupe Patent Saddle Shoe in Red $145 $73. Perforated patent leather upper with leather sole. Very British-chic.

Trisha Metallic Accent Flats $65. Love the mint color. I don’t think it’s a strictly summer color. They will really pop against dark opaque tights.

Cocoeve Embroidered Flats $22. Weee! I chuckled when I saw these. Look, kitty trying to catch a fish! You know I’m a sucker for uber-cute things. This is just too cute for words.

Flat with pointed toe from Newport News $39.00 $29.00. Love the crackled metallic finish and the jewel-encrusted grosgrain bow.