M.A.C attack

Today was my deadline for switching my makeup from "tan face" to "pale face" (I am way overdue). In deciding to do so, I headed to the M.A.C counter for my supplies. Now, I have found that by having at least one definite item in mind along with the color name gives you a bit of credibility with the salespeople there. They seem to treat you a little better and spend a tad more time helping you since they know you've purchased before. Per usual, I walked away with more than I had originally intended, but found some new great finds that I think everyone will enjoy.

1. Prep and Prime Face - This is fantastic before you apply foundation or powder. It is super light, non-greasy, and just helps your makeup apply more evenly. I was a non-believer until the girl helping me put it under my studio fix powder.

2. Studio Fix Powder- I have been a huge fan of this powder for awhile because I generally don't like liquid foundation. However, I have found that I need more coverage lately and this definitely does the trick. The only tip is really to find the right shade because I was using my summer powder until today, and it was looking awful.

3. Eye Kohl- I love soft black liners and this goes on super easy but doesn't smudge all over unless you intentionally blend it.

4. Select Moisturecover- I needed a concealer that would be an "in between" type of makeup. Sometimes I need the heavy duty stuff, other times the very light stuff. This is the right balance of coverage plus lightness. The salesgirl applied it under my eyes and it really sunk into the skin without sitting on top.

Wrinkle-Free

Due to popular demand, I have decided to do a post on skincare. Now, I do not proclaim myself an expert on anti-aging (I was and sort of still am a sun-worshiper). However, I read enough information and visit enough spas to know what I should be using on a regular basis. I have included only items that I have tried and I believe have worked. Here are my top three picks.

1. MD Skincare- I once visited Sephora and had an extensive chat with a very knowledgeable salesman regarding skincare products. He basically said that this product really causes noticeable positive changes in your skin. I must admit, a few weeks later, I did get some compliments on looking "well-rested."

2. Sothys Paris- There is a store in Chicago that carries pretty much every skincare line available. I went in there last winter to inquire about a moisturizer that would help my face survive the weather. This moisturizer not only provides a TON of moisture in a tiny dab, but is not oily, absorbs easily, and does not cause irritation.

3. Clinique- My friend Bracken introduced this to me during a time when I had spent a good deal of time bawling my eyes out...literally. This stuff was able to de-puff, moisturize, and soothe my poor puffy peepers. If it can work that well after a cry-fest, think about how well it can do any other occasion.

Boot Scooting....

Lets face it.... winter will be here for longer than we'd like. Therefore, it really is a good time to continue to buy cute boots. First of all, there are amazing deals right now. Second, the boots you buy now at a good price will still be in good quality to take you into next fall. Here are some deals that are worth checking out...

1. Dolce Vita- I am still pretty in love with riding boots. Plus, flat boots are really made for walking.

2. Aldo- These are fantastic for the price. Pair with leggings, skinny jeans or a dress. Suede is fine for winter, just don't plan on trekking through snow piles and make sure to spray before wearing.

3. Nordstrom- While I wouldn't categorize these as "going out" boots, they would be great with jeans when you just need a great all-weather shoe that still looks nice.

4. Bloomingdales- Still looking for a great pair of ankle/shoe-boots? These are wonderful and under $100!

Love is in the air....for him

To be fair, I decided to balance out my Valentine's Day list with ideas for what to get the guy in your life. I find this holiday to favor women, but its always nice to surprise someone with a token of your affection. Here are a couple ideas....

1. Uniqlo Sweater- Bake some cookies and wrap up this cute, and inexpensive sweater.

2. Burberry- A classic, simple tie that will last ages. This is a gift for the guy that dresses up frequently and will use a tie more than once a year.

3. Kors Watch- Black watches are super instyle right now...hey, I read GQ too.... and this one is sleek and inexpensive.

4. Cigar Case- If your guy likes the occasional cigar and is traveling to a party or wedding, this is a sleek, stylish case with all the necessarity items.

5. Cuff Links- Combine these simple cuff links with a gift card for a night out at a fancy (or favorite) restaurant. Or, throw in a certificate for a shave at Chicago's Trufitt Hill.

Sweetheart Shopping

Since Valentine's Day is around the corner, I thought it would be fun to post some cute gift ideas. This way, you could "accidentally" leave your computer screen up for your significant other to see in order to get some inspiration for this most important holiday. Or, if you are more blunt, simply tell your guy to check out this list for ideas. No guy in your life? I can't think of a better time to buy a great present for yourself! I heart Valentine's Day!

1. Fragrance- This fragrance works for anyone. It comes in a beautiful bottle and is super feminine for such a romantic holiday.

2. Tory Burch Cosmetics Case- The Python Print Cosmetics Case is fantastic and stylish and a great gift idea would be a spa or nail gift certificate on the inside of the case.....:)

3. BCBG footwear- Are you a shoe nut? If so, these are perfect for the formal occasion or out on the town. Just a note, if you have wide feet, go a 1/2 size up in BCBG heels.

4. Statement Necklace- Large necklaces are still all the rage, and this one is both delicate and bold at the same time... also a light pink goes well with the holiday.

5. Burberry- Are you the classic girl? Well this tote is wonderful for all seasons because its nylon, is fantastic for traveling, and will never go out of style.

6. Love and Luck Bangle Set- These stackable bracelets from Alex and Ani are really chic. They also convey a message perfect for Valentines day

Vacation Time

Maybe its wishful thinking on my part, but it is vacation season for those of us who live in cold weather. It can be a challenge to find clothes to take on your tropical getaway when its snowing out. I thought it would be helpful (and maybe motivational) to find places to purchase your warm weather duds.

1. Target- Honestly, if you want some inexpensive options for suits and aren't ready to commit to your summer gear, target has great options for next to nothing

2. Jcrew- I love JCrew because there are a variety of styles to mix and match based on how you feel. For instance, a simple, black tank suit is super flattering if you aren't excited about your tummy.

3. Nordstrom- There are super cute cover-ups available on sale, as well as suits.

4. Victoria Secret- There are always codes for free shipping, percentages off, etc. They have the best variety of sexy styles that will look great with a new tan.

Working It

Every time I have an "away" work meeting, I evaluate my work attire. Having yet another occasion to perform this analysis, I decided I needed some wardrobe updating. Here are some items that are great for the office.

1. Ann Taylor- Right now a higher waisted skirt can be super flattering, especially in black. Ann Taylor has really cute skirts and they are having a 40% off promo (I think the code is Save40)

2. Banana Republic- If you prefer pants over skirts, and are more curvy, banana actually has great dress pants that work will with flats or heels depending on the cut and length. They also always have sales on their pants.

3. Kenneth Cole- This dress would look great if you bought it a bit looser (maybe one size up), cinched the belt, wore opague tights, and a chunky black sweater.

4. BCBG- This top is a bright color which would add spice to a traditional black pant. Transition to night by adding skinny jeans and tall boots. Being silk makes it dressy enough for the workplace.

Rubber Ducky....

A post is necessary on the rubber boot. These have become such a trend this past year. They are now available in a ton of colors, patterns, and styles. But, the most important thing is the fact they keep your feet dry and warm. Very important:) Here are my favorites...

1. Hunter boots- if you are looking to be trendy, these are the rubber boots for you. They are all the rage and you can buy cute socks to wear on the inside to keep your feet warm.

2. Kamik boots- I love a bright pop of color during the bleak winter. These are cute in different colors, but will still serve a purpose.

3. Chooka Rain boots- chooka boots come in really cute patterns and are not that costly....remember these boots can be worn for years and years ( I think I had some in kindergarten)

4. Target - if you really don't care about spending a dime on these, but would like to try out a pair, target has rubber boots for very little.

Flub Troub.....

So, now is the time when everyone (well mostly everyone) finds themselves a tad disappointed with their post-holiday bod. So, even if you are hitting the gym, I wanted to find a few tops that are figure-flattering and stylish. Here goes....

1. Black Jacket- First, black is slimming. Second, this jacket is fitted through arms and has extra material through mid-section to cover any problem spots. Pair with tight leggings and boots or skinny jeans and you will appear sleek, stylish, and slimmer.

2. BCBG Tunic- A fresh take on the sweater dress. This has some extra fabric in front to hide any flaws. Also, the neckline draws attention upward. Pair with opaque tights, riding boots, and hoop earrings.

3. Plaid shirt - I already posted on plaid shirts, but they are still a fun option. If you feel slim, throw a belt around your waist, if not, leave untucked and wear with a short skirt or jeans.

4. Banana Republic Skirt- Higher-waisted skirts also can cover flub. Not only that but this skirt has some folds in the front for distraction. Pair with a blousy silk top, tucked in, and black tights. Very slimming.

5. Gap Sweater- Have a super cute dress or skirt that you want to wear but just are as confident given the extra pie you ate over the holidays? Throw on a chunky, cute sweater over it and give it another look. Not only will you be warmer, but you can hide areas you just aren't ready to show off.

2010 in full effect....

I am back from my month long vacation from the computer. I apologize for the lapse in fashion updates, but I am prepared to start the New Year with more posts and great items. I hope all of you had a great holiday and received some wonderful items to be worn this winter. I figured that I had begin my return with some information about cute cold weather items. First, I woke up to the fact that is is 5 degrees. Second, I know a lot of people are planning ski trips, etc which warrant some cold weather duds. Here are my top five picks .....

P.S There is now a "search" feature if you want to search my site for information on a certain item.

1. Down Coat- These can often make your silhouette appear larger than life, so it is important to find a coat that is tailored through the middle and a bit longer so it doesn't bulk you up. The nice thing with down is you will be warm enough that ten layers of clothing won't be required underneath the jacket.

2. Warm shoes- Okay. It is really hard to find fashionable footwear for mounds of snow. But, sometimes the cute snow bunny look is not all that bad either (especially if you are in Colorado).

3. Thermal Style Shirts- Good news! Long-John style shirts are actually cute. Just find one that is fitted, in a cute color or pattern, and pair with skinny jeans and boots. Add a scarf or skinny belt and you look cute, casual, and warm.

4. Oversized knit hats- These oversized beret-style hats are really popular in Hollywood right now. The nice thing is they don't really create "hat head" because they are more loose fitting. They look really cute when your hair is worn down. If you tuck all your hair in, you can look bald.

5. Gloves- These are great because they have a compartment for hand warmers (if skiing, etc), can be used as liners for extreme weather, or worn by themselves as simple, cute, hand-warming gloves.