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March 31, 2011

30 Skills To Learn Before A Woman Turns 30

Really makes me want cake now...

I found this list on The Fabulous Life of Not-so Rich and Infamous and found it interesting. I'm 25 so I have some time to cross these skills off the list, but I feel like some are unnecessary...

1. Hard-boil an egg  Don't people learn that pretty early on?
2. Diplomatically tell mom to butt out- Still working on...
3. Ace a job interview I've been on so many by this point I'd say I'm pretty good at them :)
4. Ask a man out  I'm not usually the initiator but eh you only live once
5. Send a thoughtful thank-you note Of course!
6. Listen to a friend in need
You should do this always!
7. Ask for help 
Not easy but done.
8. Effectively end an unhealthy relationship (romantic or platonic in nature) Eh, I ended one but should have done it WAY before I did
9. Beautifully wrap a gift
  Check!
10. Say “no” gracefully
  Every lady should know this
11. Whip up a great dinner with the five items in her fridge - I've whipped up a dinner, don't know if I did with with only the 5 items in my fridge- does that count?
12. Forget pleasing him, by 30 a woman should be able to tell her man exactly how to please her
  I'm very bossy lol
13. Sew a button 
You learn basic sewing at fashion school :)
14. Mix a kick-ass cocktail- I don't drink so I don't think this will ever get checked off...
15. Take off her bra without removing her shirt
  haha a must at the end of the day!
16. Apply lip gloss in the dark
  Duh!
17. Balance her checkbook
  Yes, but painful *sigh*
18. Create a budget
  Don't most of us do this for our jobs?
19. Find the best deal
  Hell yeah!
20. Negotiate a salary and/or pay raise- Never had to, but would like to think I could.
21. Read a map
  Of course!
22. Hail a cab 
Done and done.
23. Say something in French just for the hell of it 
Wi!
24. Apologize when she’s wrong  Makes you an honest person.
25. Dress for her body type
  Yes, all women should learn this.
26. Change a flat (or know whom to call to come change it)
  I don't drive in Manhattan, but in LA I called AAA
27. Spot a fake (handbag, diamond, potential friend …)
A must!
28. Feign interest
  Sure
29. Know what to tip on a $25 dinner bill
That's what phones are for lol
30. Hold a baby
Her own or somebody else's?

I think going to a movie or dining out alone should be added. For some reason most women are afraid to do what are considered "social activities" alone. I've gone to movies alone and I survived lol!

What do you think of this list? What do you think should be added or deleted?

Katy Perry Is Unrecognizable In Her "E.T." Music Vdeo


Katy Perry is keeping in stride with Lady Gaga with her latest music video for "E.T." featuring Kanye West. It takes place in a future almost post apocalyptic looking universe. Kanye opens the video floating around a spaceship in some tin foil looking pants. Ms. Perry transforms from an alien to her "human" self while falling in space wrapped in colorful fabrics. You can't even recognize her with the cornrows and extravagant makeup. I think the graphics when she was floating in space could have been better especially with all the technology that is out there, but she looks beautiful at the 3 minute mark.

Watch the video below:



What do you think? Can someone explain the ending?

Via JustJared / Image Source

March 30, 2011

$8 Burger And Beer Special At Copia's In Midtown


My latest restaurant review is up (I'm no pro) and this time it's about Copia's in Midtown. They have an $8 burger and beer deal that I had to try! Read my review on NearSay (please) and share your thoughts.

Where are some of the best restaurants to find deals in Manhattan?

Shoe Porn: Victoria's Secret Edition

Colin Stuart Peep-Toe Pump $88

Victoria's Secret has been pumping out some pretty fabulous items lately... especially in the shoe department. Well technically they have contracts with awesome shoe companies, but still... gorgeous nonetheless. Check out some of these beauties:

Colin Stuart Floral Mesh Bootie $128

Colin Stuart Suede Cut-Out Pump $88
Luichiny Cross-Front Wedge Sandal $139
Have you ever shopped at Victoria's Secret for shoes?

My Etsy Turband Purchase


You can find all kinds of fun things on Etsy. I have been loving turbands (turban + headband) but haven't found any on my kind of budget. I found this Etsy store, which were handmade and around $10. There was a large selection but I'm sucker for studs so this studded turband caught my eye. Shipping was just $3.50 even though it was international from Korea and arrived fairly quickly. I wore it to the Fashion 2.0 event last night and Sarah of Style IT was in love!

What do you think? Would you wear a turband?

March 29, 2011

Best Tip For Getting Rid Of A Pimple


They're ugly. They're a pain to get rid of. Pimples. Everyone hates them. There are tons of products on the market for "quickly zapping" them. Most of them don't work and dry out your skin. The ingredients basically suck out the oils so a side effect is dry patches on your skin (not pretty). You've been told to exfoliate to scrub the dirt out. But that can actually agitate the affected area. So what do you do?

Usually the best thing to do is leave it alone. I know - crazy! When a pimple is just starting to form, try to leave it alone. Usually it will go away in a few days (sorry, no instant gratification!). Keep your skin clean but avoid rough exfoliaters. Yes, it may be necessary to use a zit zapping product when it's really gross (green head forms) and is putting a lot of pressure on your skin. But try and keep the infected area clean so you don't have to use harsh zit zappers.

What is your best tip for getting rid of a pimple?
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GIVEAWAY!: Sophia Bennett's "Sequins, Secrets, And Silver Linings"


Recently, I surpassed 35 followers on my blog (thank you!) and I wanted to show my appreciation with a giveaway! Sophia Bennett's Sequins, Secrets, and Silver Linings is a great book for anyone who likes fashion. It is a story about 3 girls who love fashion living London. It definitely has a "Pretty Little Liars" feel without the murder. It has been praised by Meg Cabot (author of "Princess Diaries" and others), "Like a delicious frothy milkshake, I didn't want it to end! From page one, no girl will be able to put it down."

To enter: *Open to US residents only. (Sorry!)

1. You must follow the blog. Please specify how you follow (i.e. Google, Blog Lovin', Networked Blogs).
2. Leave a way to contact you. Please also leave a way for me to get in touch with you so I can let you know if you won (i.e. Twitter or e-mail).

Additional entries:
1. Retweet about the giveaway!

The giveaway closes Friday, April 1st at midnight EST. I will announce the winner Saturday. Good luck!

March 28, 2011

I Find Myself Disagreeing With Tom Ford


I love Mr. Tom Ford. He is always stylish and has been making men step up their fashion game for years. However, recently in an interview he said that men shouldn't wear shorts or flip flops. I completely agree about flip flops... I'm repulsed by them. I don't think men have attractive feet so they shouldn't wear them (but that's another story).

However, I'm not so convinced about the shorts part. It gets hot in the summer, so men shouldn't have to suffer through pants. I think they can look fashionable in shorts. Here are some examples:


Keep them long!


Dress them up, or dress them down.



Pair them with a white shirt and a fedora!

Now we just need the warmer weather to arrive! What are your thoughts about men wearing shorts (or flip flops)?

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New York vs Los Angeles


The comparisons between the two cities are endless. Having lived in both I think I can shed some perspective. I did my time in downtown Los Angeles for 3 three years while attending the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) and working full-time. I’ve been in Midtown almost 4 years now and have noticed similarities.

I wrote a post about this topic for NearSay. Let me know your thoughts!

Something Happened To Rihanna's Shorts For Rolling Stones


Rihanna is the Rolling Stones cover girl... and I think something happened to her shorts. They look like they've been ripped up by a bear. And how exactly does the front work... looks like a lot is missing. I feel like she's been trying too hard lately *sigh.*

Do you think it's cool or trashy?

March 27, 2011

My Tips For Improving Your Grammar


I'll confess... I'm a grammar snob. I get so put off by improper grammar. I find it hot when guys show off their vocabulary skills with words like "ebullient" and "convivial." Here are some tips for improving your grammar skills:

1. Read! A lot! There is no better way to learn proper grammar and spelling than by simply reading it. This was the advice my English professor had for me and I will always abide by it.

2. Get a good grammar book! It is an easy way for you to reference back and double check grammatical details, such as when to use a comma (like I just did!).

3. Practice makes perfect! With texting and IMing it is hard to get yourself in the habit of writing out full sentences, but you really should! When writing an e-mail or text you should try to type out your full thought. Rather than texting your friend "ur so cool" try "You're so cool." It will get you in the habit of remembering when to use a word properly and you can be a good influence on your friend!

What other tips can you offer?

March 26, 2011

How To Wear Bold Lips


I thought I'd do a beauty post about one of my favorite looks: bold lips. Now the golden rule is to only accentuate one feature when wearing makeup (i.e. smokey eye with a soft lip). When doing a bold lip, it's hard for me to tone down my eyes since I love dramatic lashes. However, wearing a simple cat eye (nothing too overstated) can be fun to pair with bold lips! I'm a big fan of the Rockabilly girl look and a cat eye with a red lip is such a retro look. I updated the look with a fuchsia lip.

Products I used:

* Stila's Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 Shade 01
* Stila's Long Wear Lip Liner in Obsessed
* e.l.f.'s Under Eye Concealer & Highlighter in Fair/Glow
* MAC's Haute & Naughty Lash Mascara- I used the first brush (pink top) to separate the lashes then went over it with the second brush (purple top) to make them fuller
* The liquid eyeliner is a random one I've had for awhile, no idea about the brand (sorry)
* Maybelline's ColorSensation Lipstick in 160 Fifth Ave. Fuchsia (love this color!)
* Make Up For Ever's HD Powder (use as a base to make the lipstick last)

How do you like to wear bold lips?

P.S. When I don't smile in pics I feel like I look so pissed off lol!

Earth Hour Tonight At 8:30!

 
This is such a simple thing that can do a world of good! At 8:30pm tonight (whatever your timezone may be) turn off all your lights for one hour. It's a great way to show your support for the environment no matter what your political views may be. If you are concerned you'll be bored, here is a short list of some things you can do during Earth Hour:

1) Read a book/magazine
2) Play a board game
3) Eat a meal/popcorn
4) Organize your jewelry collection
5) Paint your toes/nails
6) Kiss someone you love 
7) Do some yoga poses
8) Go dance on the street!

Here's a little inspirational video:



For more information check out the Earth Hour website.

Will you be participating?

Great Reads of the Week

Here are posts I enjoyed reading this week:

- Chic 'n Cheap Living tells how bloggers are helping relief efforts in Japan
- Sarah of Bright Lights, My City shares her top 10 reasons for living in New York City
- Modly Chic reveals she's publishing a novel!
- ...love Maegan shows us 10 ways to wear a light colored blazer
- Lauren Loves... discusses when Photoshop can wrong 
- Allyson in Wonderland gives a much needed style lesson to all the boys
- LoveBrownSugar creates a unique hairstyle for girls with natural hair
- Fashion Mist shares her some of her healthy eating habits
- Nice and Shiny shows off some awesome nail art
- Brilliant Brunette shares her favorite eye shadow palettes

Have a great weekend!

March 25, 2011

8 Iconic '90s Looks I Want To Recreate

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Here are some '90s looks that I have been wanting to recreate ever since I saw them. In no particular order...

1. Who didn't want to look like Liv Tyler in "Empire Records." She was still is hot! I know I could never pull off a midriff shirt or have the legs to wear a plaid mini with Doc Martens, but I can dream right?
Blurry image still from YouTube video
2. I don't like Celine Dion's music but seeing how she looked in an oversized sweater rolling around the bed in the video "Power of Love" made me want to be that sexy. I still think a woman in just a sweater can be so seductive. No?

Still from YouTube video
3. I totally related to T.L.C because they were tomboys who could still look hot. I grew up a tomboy and have blossomed into a woman now but I never pulled off the looks they did... baggy overalls anyone? After the "Creep" video I've always wanted silk pajamas... I thought they were the hottest thing. Don't judge me.
Still from YouTube video
4. Mariah Carey was the "it" girl of the '90s. She looked so naturally beautiful dancing around a flower field in her "Dreamlover" video in cut off jeans, converse and a plaid shirt. I wish I could look so effortless!



5. One of the most vivid outfits I remember from the '90s was this woman who performed with "Paradise By the Dashboard Light" with Meat Loaf in a full head to toe white. Her name is Karla DeVito and I thought she looked so kick ass! I'm still on a quest for white jeans like hers.

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6. Who didn't want to be Liz Hurley in that Versace safety pins dress? HOT HOT HOT! She wasn't a well-known actress when she wore it but she has kept everyone talking since then. Isn't that what a great dress does?


7. Tina Turner has so many great looks, but I loved how great her legs looked in this outfit. This has been my "back up" Halloween costume for years: black capris, black top, big belt, pumps and teased hair (so simple!). She's a legend- love her!



8. Alicia Silverstone was another darling of the '90s. I love Clueless (don't get me wrong) but I don't think I'd recreate any of those looks. I preferred her in her grunge stage in the Aerosmith videos, especially in that floral baby doll dress with Doc Martens (so 90s!) in the "Cryin" video.

What looks would you want to recreate from the '90s?

FBFF Questions: Feminism In Fashion

We all know this photo
I touched on this topic during International Women's Day sharing just because I'm into fashion doesn't make me any less of a feminist.

Do you think there is an incompatibility between feminism and a love for fashion?
I don't think so at all. Fashion at it's core is two things, 1: essential (everyone has to wear clothes) and 2: creative expression. We can express whatever we want to say to the world with our clothing choices, we can declare "I'm a feminist" proudly with a T-shirt or do it by wearing a power suit and running a Forbes 500 company. Women can do it all: look put together, have a great job, be a great mom (if they chose to be) and/or wife.

There is more to each of us than a love for fashion, how do you incorporate every aspect of yourself into your blog?
Well I based my blog on what opinions I had, so I would say I share a lot. When a death in the family occurred I didn't know if I should write about it but when it was keeping me from my blog I thought I'd share why I had been absent. Everyone was really great and supportive. The blogging community is a great one so I wouldn't be afraid to share because you may receive some kind words you needed to hear.

With the fashion industry still being a male-dominated profession, how do you think it would differ if women played a larger role? 
This is a very interesting question. I definitely think female designers understand the female shape and what makes us comfortable better. Male designers usually design clothes to make us feel and look sexy (who can blame them?). I think the world as a whole would be better if women were running it because we tend to be a little more rational and logical when it comes to decisions. We don't have the "alpha" dog gene that men do.

How is your self-image and the way you carry yourself informed by your beliefs?
I carry myself with more confidence knowing that people can't treat me a certain way. I stick up for myself a little more when I used to be pretty quiet. I think wearing great clothes that fit and flatter you always make you carry yourself differently (in a good way). Women shouldn't be afraid to dress well because they are afraid it's distracting or gain unwanted attention. Dress to make yourself feel good and be proud!

Do you think clothing/makeup/hair helps communicate the truth about yourself or are those things superfluous add-ons?
Well I wrote a post touching on this subject last night. I definitely think clothing and hair can communicate truth about yourself. Even when you are lying about your hair, you can conveying something about yourself. Makeup is a touchy subject because I view makeup more as something fun. My daily routine is usually tinted moisturizer (for the SPF protection) and lip balm because I always need something on my lips. But I do have tons of makeup that I play around with because it is fun to play with different looks. If I wear a bright red lip, I'm definitely saying something about myself with that type of look. I think the fun thing about all of them is that you can switch it up depending on your mood. And don't we all have different types of moods?

What are your thoughts?

Join the Friend Friday Group hosted by ModlyChic!

March 24, 2011

You Don't Have A Face For Makeup


This is what a guy told me once when I showed him a picture of me. I was dressed up going to a club so yes I had more makeup on than I usually do, but his comment threw me off. Guys don't phrase things in the best way, do they? I first thought of it as an insult but over the years have come to understand what I think he was trying to say.

I think he was trying to say that I look better with a more natural look. My friends and even boyfriends have all said similar things. My current one seems more attracted to me when I don't have any makeup on than when I put some on for a date. I got my makeup done at the Shecky's Girls Night Out and thought he would be like "ooh you look great" but nope... no comment! I was kind of insulted but I guess it's more flattering when a guy says you look beautiful when you have no makeup on and still in your pajamas.

Growing up I didn't have someone show me to apply makeup properly. My mom and sister weren't much into so it was very trial and error (more error). I like to experiment with makeup but at 25 I have found a more natural look that works for me. But when I go out, I like to try some glam makeup like a bold lip or false lashes. Since I have a face more suited for a natural look... should I not be wearing bold makeup? Am I making myself look worse? I don't care. I'll wear my fuchsia lipstick all I want!

Do you think makeup enhances your natural look or does it sometimes hinder it?

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Abbey Lee Kershaw For Vogue Russia


Abbey Lee looks FIERCE for Vogue Russia's April issue!!! She rocks some bondage accessories with Yves Saint Laurent classics.
I love the hair!

Gorgeous!

What do you think of the shoot?

Via Fashion Gone Rogue

March 23, 2011

Keep Or Donate: Ruffled Lace Blouse


I haven't done one of these in a hot minute! This is another one of those pieces where Kim can't remember where she bought it, it's that old. I was ahead of the lace trend *wink* but now I'm not in love with it so much. I'm not sure if you can see the detailing but there's an elastic waist by the second to last button. Unfortunately, it hit a bad area on my torso so it's not so flattering.

I keep saying I'll pair it with a cardigan so you won't notice the bottom. But shouldn't your clothes be flattering and not force you to have to find creative ways to wear them? Sigh...

Do you think it's time for me to donate it?

Nike Teams Up With Liberty Of London

 
And the shoe porn continues.. well more like shoe cuteness! Nike has teamed up with Liberty of London to create some fashionably adorable sneakers which will be released April 1 in the UK (and hopefully online).
I love all the high tops!


What do you think of this collection?

Via Fashionista

In Honor Of Elizabeth Taylor


If you haven't already heard, Dame Elizabeth Taylor passed away this morning at the age of 79. I was surprised to hear she was so young but she lived a full life (i.e. 8 marriages!). She was also a great supporter for HIV/AIDs research, which her family has kindly requested that instead of flowers that you donate to her foundation.

Here are some photos to remember her classic elegance:




She was so iconic in "Cleopatra." What was your favorite Elizabeth Taylor movie?



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March 22, 2011

Rebecca Minkoff Does Shoes

Brooke Heel $325
Shoe porn has come early! The famous handbag designer has launched a new shoe line and it is quite fabulous. Prices range from $185 to $375.
 
These Foxy Cut-Out heels are already sold out!
Femme Fatale is the perfect name for these sexy heels.
A great pair of flats!

Check out more at Rebecca Minkoff.

What do you think of the collection?
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