Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Grown-Up Lady Bag

Right now I'm in love with this bag ($129.90):


It seems like the perfect winter bag, the right size for hauling around all my stuff, and it goes with just about everything. Not thrilled with the price, but a sturdy, good looking bag would be worth it, because it would definitely be my everyday bag.

Monday, November 16, 2009

First List for Winter: what every woman should own

Ask anyone who knows me well and they can attest to just how much I love lists. Like, seriously, love lists. So I've come up with two lists of what is necessary for once it gets cold outside. The first is a practical assemblage of what every woman ought to own from year to year. The second is a compilation of this year's trends.



V-Neck sweaters
I cannot emphasize enough how flattering v-neck necklines are for everyone. Everyone! I stocked up on mine in cashmere, cable knit, solids and argyle.
This cashmere and silk blend v-neck sweater ($99) comes in a rich variety of colors


Cardigans
There are a multitude of reasons why I have a stack of cardigans in my room. They're warm, they add personality to an outfit, they're more casual than a blazer, they can be layered over and under just about anything. You should certainly own more than one cardigan, in fact, you should own several, including but not limited to: v-neck, crewneck, boyfriend, solids, patterns, and (this year's oh-so-trendy) drapey. The material of cardigans can vary from cotton to wool, but I prefer a blend of fabrics resulting in something warm yet thin.
This classic cardigan ($49.50) is aptly named and incredibly versatile


Wool Peacoat
This classic shape is timeless and will never, ever be "out" of style. Once purchased, this coat will last you year after year. It should be tailored and not too heavy (eg: you should look like a woman in it). Hardly a statement coat, the peacoat allows for the rest of your outfit to speak for itself, without lacking style or being completely bland and boring.
This peacoat's ($94.99) familiar silhouette is shapely, stylish, and timeless.


Riding Boots
...like most of the items on this list, are not about to vanish anytime soon. The trick is to select a stylish pair that compliments your current wardrobe, but lacks too many "bells and whistles" that might date it. If your wardrobe is already preppy, then it might be alright to select the most equestrian pair, however, if your wardrobe is not very New England, then you might benefit from a pair with simple, sleek lines. The best part about riding boots is that they are all almost flat, making them easy to walk in and wear everywhere. So pick a pair you will want to wear nearly every day!
With cleans lines and horsebit accessories, this pair of riding boots ($89) definitely wins


Scarves
Scarves are one of my favorite winter accessories, and since they can be found at inexpensive prices (think Target, Forever 21 and Old Navy), they're something you can own in every color! Select scarves that a lightweight instead of chunky to prevent adding too much weight to your outfit, while still keeping you warm. You'd be surprised at how warm a tissue-thin jersey scarf can be. Scarves are an excellent way to add color/pattern/texture to an outfit, so don't be afraid to go a little more "out there" on a scarf. Plus, they're an inexpensive way to wear a trend, such as plaid.

This scarf ($12.50) comes in gorgeous colors with just a hint of metallic sheen, making it ideal for day or night.

Booties
Like any pair of boots, a pair of booties should be considered a versatile investment piece that could be worn potentially all the time. They should comfortable as well as stylish and something you absolutely love. Booties are fun and flirty, perfect with leggings and a sweaterdress or peeking out from under trouser jeans with a nice top.
These booties are sexy and stately ($279.95)

Look forward to my second list: trends to try!

Rose Gold Eyeshadow



This eyeshadow trio from Stila in Bronze Glow ($28) is my new obsession. I've been searching high and low for the perfect "rose gold" color to brighten eyes up and create a sexy and soft natural glow. Found!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Added to Skincare Regimen

Americans typically follow their cleansers with toners, but in Japan they use "softeners". Whereas toners tend to focus on tightening the skin to prevent aging, softeners are meant to prevent wrinkles and other signs of age by maintaining a high level of moisture. Since I have dry, sensitive skin, I decided to forgo a toner in favor of a softener. So recently I purchased one from Shiseido for $34.:


I know that's a lot to spend, but the bottle I got at my nearest Macy's is huuuge, and I'm convinced it will last me for a long time. Additionally, I cannot believe how amazing this stuff makes my skin feel! It is incredibly soft and smooth afterwards, an effect that lasts the entire day. I highly recommend this for anyone with dry and/or sensitive skin. It's works like magic.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Wanted: Large Tote

I'm looking for a tote that will fit everything I need from the time I leave my apartment, to the time I come back. This means fitting my laptop, lunch (and sometimes dinner), notebooks (and sometimes textbooks), phone, pens and pencils, etc. Having pockets to keep all this organized is a plus.


I'm hooked on this Katie Shopper bag from Nine West ($70.90). It looks classy and is--amazingly enough--large enough to schlep around all my stuff.

Second place: Rampage Krista large tote ($108). Reason it came in second? I'd prefer to have a bag in a brown shade, and I like the Krista tote best in black.

Captivating Fragrance


I am absolutely obsessed with YSL's Parisienne ($38-85). I don't even know how to describe it; it's fresh and lovely at the same time and I just want to smell it all day. Finally, a scent I'm obsessed with. This is the one!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

More Short Boots Love

Posting on someone else's find, tacky, I know, but I just love these Mia boots that She Finds...found. My only problem with the post is that the Outlaw boots featured are $124.99 (on sale). Dillards has the exact same pair for a much more affordable $99. I personally am adding them to my wish list...for the next lab I finish, hah!

(Sorry for no picture, school computer is acting up...)