Lip Gloss that is Poppin' - Bobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color

First of all, I apologize for the Lil Mama reference.  For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about...not a big deal.  It has nothing to do with the actual review I'm about to complete...it's just getting harder to come up with witty titles!  Haha.

Any who, back to my review.  In my job, I don't have a lot of time to primp throughout the day.  Therefore, my lip can not take more than one step.  I can't reapply lip liner, then a lipstick, then a lip gloss - it's just not efficient for most working women.  However, if you use just one of the above it seems like you don't get the long-lasting look that you are looking for.  When I use just a lipstick I think that my lips look dry over time; and when I just use a lip gloss, as soon as I drink a glass of water or eat lunch the look has vanished.  Recently, I shared these frustrations with the girl at the Bobbi Brown counter and she immediately steered me towards the Bobbi Brown Creamy Lip Color.  I mentioned to her that I normally go for a more subtle, natural look and she chose a lip color for me (rose petal) and told me to try it.

I was a little surprised at first, because at first glance it looks like a cream-based blush or just a lip balm.  In my mind I had already prepared to say, "No, that's not what I'm looking for."  However, I was surprised with the end result.  With just a little bit of a product I was able to achieve the look of a gloss and the longevity of a lipstick.  In fact, I was most surprised that it was still in the same condition when I arrived home about two hours later.

The product has shea butter, so it moisturizes while providing more color than just your regular lip balm. It's a little pricy for some women at first glance, but when you realize it's a one stop shop, $22 is definitely worth it.

If you have a Bobbi Brown counter near you, I suggest going there first.  That way, you can view all of the shades.  Sephora carries the line as well, but only certain colors are available in stores.  Most of the colors are neutrals and pinks to bring out the natural color of a woman's lips.  Personally, I think it enhances the lip without looking fake.  It comes in 14 different shades - so you are sure to find one that you love!  

So say goodbye to slimy, fake looking lip glosses and dry, cracked lipsticks and try the creamy lip color. Your lips will look amazing all day and everyone will want to know your secret!  Of course, it's up to you if you want to share!  

XOXO,

Allison

BHLDN - Your One Stop Shop for Unique Wedding Attire

Before you pass this up because you're already an old married woman like me...keep reading.  Believe it or not - this site is not just for the bride.  There are looks for everyone - bridesmaids, wedding guests, you name it!  In fact, some of these "bridesmaids" looks are actually items that you might want to wear to a cocktail party or night on the town!

Now once you get past the unusual name (what does it stand for?  beholden without the vowels) you will realize that this wedding shop - filled with gowns, lingerie, jewelry, shoes, and accessories - is actually provided to you by popular store Anthropologie.  We have a shop here in Indy (The Fashion Mall for those of you who have missed out yet) and it's a great place to find something a little less ordinary than stores like Gap and J.Crew provide.  It's definitely not cheap, but they have some great looks.

Back to BHLDN...now if you are an upcoming bride or a single lady who is trying to put a ring on it, you have to check this site out.  There are some looks on the site that I don't think you could find anywhere else.  One of my favorites?  This grey wedding dress!  Isn't it a showstopper?  For $3600 it's in the mid price range for most wedding gown brands, and it's definitely for the fashionista.

Looking for something a little more standard?  There are definitely some more traditional looks - and even some great dresses for the "reception" dress or rehearsal.  I love this tea length look.  It's classic but has some intricate detailing that makes it a step above the rest.  Plus, it's completely affordable at $600.

Already have a dress and looking to finish the look off - well this is a one stop shop to do just that.  Here are some of my favorite options for making that dress one of a kind.

Bow-Topped Slingbacks, $310

Just in case you forget...(and a potential photo op!)

Foreign Affirmation Ring, $80 

Dewed Vines Hairpin, $140

Not the bride?  No problem!  There are so many great looks for you as well.  I'm obsessed with this look.    I know you're not supposed to look better than the bride but it's hard not to standout in this pretty piece!

Twirled Sweetheart Dress (Available in Other colors), $240

Looking for something a little more reserved?  Check out these looks: 

Starburst Pleated Shift Dress, $200

Savoy Dress, $220

Well, this concludes our tour of the new BHLDN site.  I hope you've enjoyed your time perusing through the great styles and have found something you can't live without!  I know I have...

XOXO,

Allison

One of my March Favorites - the Summer Wristlet or Clutch

As I mentioned in February, gone are the days of the large, shapeless bags.  Something with a little more structure is the desirable style these days...and for those summer days when less is more the wristlet or clutch is the way to go.

Personally,  I love the looks of leather.  To me, I am always looking for the best, most functional, and beautiful bag vs. the style embellished in the brand's logo.   However, the great thing is that most brands make styles to fit your individual preference.  For example, I am in love with this Coach Kristin Large Leather Wristlet.   I find the champagne tone to be luxurious and a perfect compliment to almost any summer style, and the price is fairly affordable ($108) if you believe you'll be using it a lot.  However, as I mentioned it is also available in Coach's CC signature pattern if you do not prefer leather.

Coach Kristin Large Leather Wristlet, $108

Another clutch/wristlet style that is becoming more present in department stores and boutiques is the envelope clutch.  I happen to love this look, because it's simplicity in style allows for some boldness in color and material.  I tend to go for classic looks, so I adore this Tory Burch style from her latest collection.  It's a little pricier than some styles out there (at $275) but if you opt for the right color this style could be seasonless - still receiving compliments for it years on down the road.   

Tory Burch Robinson Envelope Wristlet, $275

Looking for something with a little more color?  Well, I love this Rebecca Minkoff Quilted Clutch.  The bright color (also available in black or nude) and the stud detail ensure that it will stand out.  I think it would look perfect with your LBD during a night on the town.  But at $360, you will want to be in love.  

Rebecca Minkoff Quilted Clutch, $360

Now obviously these have been some of the higher end options, so here are a few pieces for the girl on the budget.  

Simply Vera Vera Wang Crocodile Clutch, $23.40

Daisy Fuentes Turn-Lock Clutch, $21.60

Forever 21 Soft Leatherette Clutch,  $14.80

So there you go, 6 summer clutch options in a wide range of colors, prices, and styles for you to peruse through.  Just remember, if you decide to invest in a higher end brand, be sure to choose a style and color that is classic so that you will be able to use it several seasons from now.  And with any handbag purchase, be sure you are in love - no matter what the price!  If you don't love it in the store, you're going to like it even less at home.  However, I usually don't find many handbags I can't justify purchasing...and the affordability and versatility of clutches just helps with that even more!  

XOXO,

Allison

The Perfect Work Pant - without breaking the bank

Since entering into the professional work force about 6 years ago, I have continued to have trouble finding work pants.  I was "blessed" with an unusually short inseam, making it near impossible to purchase pants  without having to have them altered in some way.  I'm also in that "in between" stage where if I get the petite size, after one wash I look like I am wearing flood pants.  Seriously, it makes shopping for pants a very stressful experience.  Well...this season I found the perfect work pant and I had to share.  In fact, I've purchased them in every color because for the price I couldn't pass them up!

Some stores are hit or miss for me.  For example, one season I will be in Gap or J.Crew every other week because I love the selection and then the next season I will avoid the store like the plague.  I hate when stores come out with the same styles over and over again in different colors or shades.  It's one thing if it's a classic button up, but the same velvet blazer from last season?  Get a little creative people!  I don't want to pay $148 for the same blazer two years in a row!

Lately, I've been turning to Ann Taylor and the Loft by Ann Taylor.  I used to think there look was "too mature" for me, but recently they've emerged with some youthful and fresh styles that have clean lines and look classic.  I think it's the only place you can buy khakis that aren't wrinkled or distressed under $100.  When looking for jobs recently I realized that I was in serious need of a new pant suit.  So I went to the Loft and purchased this great camel suit and fell in love with the pants.  They were the Marisa style and they provided a lengthening factor.  They also provided more support in the waist and hip area...there are just some occasions where low rise won't cut it.

When I accepted the job in Memphis, I realized that my work pant selection was getting low.  In the past few years, I've been working in a manufacturing environment and could get away with a more casual look - i.e. jeans.  However, now that I'm going to be in more of a professional setting, I wanted to look into purchasing a few more pants for work.  I get tired of just the normal khaki and was hoping that I could find something fitting for work - not too dressy, comfortable, and flattering.  Sometimes I have trouble with pants in my thighs - I hate when the waist is huge but it's tight in my thighs.  That's why I was so excited when I found the Loft's Marisa Everyday Cotton Trousers.

For only $59.50, this style is available in 4 shades.  The best part?  Almost every weekend the Loft has some sort of promotion, so I ended up getting these pants for about $35/piece.  It is available from sizes 00 - 18 as well as petite, regular, and tall - for no extra price!  What I love about the petites is that they are a bit longer than most petites, making it easier for someone like me to be able to purchase them without looking like I have ankle pants on.  This has happened to me with Gap and J.Crew styles and it's been so frustrating!

In the last two years Ann Taylor has really revamped their brand - both at the Loft and the Ann Taylor stores.  Ann Taylor has had celebrity models such as Naomi Watts and Katie Holmes in recent ads and the Loft has brought a youthful side to their playful prints and dresses.  I love that most of their stuff is so versatile.  You could pair some of their blouses under a jacket in a more professional environment and then just throw them on with jeans on the weekends or casual Fridays.  It's definitely a great stop for affordable workwear.

Now back to the pants.  They are comfortable, light, and the colors go with just about every top you own.  I love that they look professional and luxurious but don't break the bank.  Let's be honest, some of us, whether we be teachers, engineers, or business people get our pants dirty.  So we don't want to feel guilty about getting a pair of pants soiled.  And it's even more annoying when the pants are dry clean only.

So head to the Loft - it's convenient (for most of us - there are 6 stores in the Indianapolis area alone and an outlet just south of the city), affordable, and great for the woman who needs versatility in her wardrobe.  Now you have a chance to buy your workwear and weekend attire all in one place.  After all, when you save on your clothes it just leaves more money for handbags and shoes!

XOXO,

Allison

The Upgraded Flip Flop - the easiest way to vamp up your favorite summer style

Every summer we all do it - we decide that our favorite pair of flip flops goes with everything: a party dress, our swimwear, jeans and shorts...EVERY OUTFIT.  In fact, I was even caught wearing my favorite black pair with my white reception dress at my wedding.  And why do we make excuses that it looks okay?  Because they are comfortable and allow your feet to breathe!  For those of us who don't get to experience the warm weather as long as others, as soon as the temperatures reach above 50 people start breaking out their spring and summer footwear.

Well...if you are planning to wear your favorite summer shoe with anything and everything, why not look at a few other styles vs. buying that Old Navy pair in every single color.  Sure, you may get more bang for your buck at Old Navy, but if you find the right sandal you won't need to change your sandal every few days.  Plus, you might find a style with a little more support and longevity to last the entire summer.  

One of my favorite go to sandal brands is UGG.  Believe it or not, they have some great summer styles that add a lot more style than the normal Birkenstock.  In fact, I just bought this Deitra sandal on a recent shopping trip and I love it!  It is extremely comfortable, and the leather and metal detail adds just enough pazazz to make this style incredibly versatile.  This is a shoe that you can wear with a dress or a pair of jeans and not have people whispering!  However, for those people looking for a deal, this is a bit on the expensive side for a sandal - $80.  Although, I will say that this line is very durable and I still have a pair from 4 summers ago that is in perfect shape!  

For something a bit more dressy, I opt for styles like this Tory Burch Miller Sandal.  Now this sandal is expensive ($225) but I will say it's a classic cut.  In addition, it frames your foot very well - and creates a very slimming effect.  The logo adds a little something - I have the style from last season that is all leather.  I prefer it over the gold accent, but I still think this style is amazingly flattering.  Because the sandal is all leather, I can easily get away with wearing this shoe to work or out to a nice dinner.  It's not as easy on the wallet, but you will get a ton of use out of it.  

This Cole Haan style is also a great option if you are wanting something a little more reasonable.   For $98 it's another excellent style that you can dress up or down.  

And lastly, for the girl who just can't get out of that flip flop...here's something with a little more flare.  I love this pair of Havianas Flip Flops.  The detail at the toe instantly adds more glamour than the normal flip flop and the price is great - just $30.  This is the way to dress it up without losing the appeal of the "flip flop."

Even Old Navy offers styles to get you out of your comfort zone.  I love this spin on the flip flop.  The detail work makes it dressier and you could definitely get away with wearing this shoe with a summer dress.  And the price ($9.50) is right!  

So ladies, no more excuses!  I have given you a variety or styles and price ranges to satisfy your comfort and summer style needs.  No longer will you be the girl with the same pair of smelly flip flops that you wore all last summer.  Now, you have several options to mix it up and look fabulous.  And trust me - your feet will thank you!  

XOXO,

Allison

  

Style I envy - Hailee Steinfeld

Okay...so it's time to switch things up again and start looking at celebrities and socialites who have got there fashion together.  Up for discussion today - Hailee Steinfeld.  At 14 this girl has nabbed several leading roles in popular Hollywood films, an Oscar nomination, and some of the most sophisticated designer duds out there.

First of all, kudos to Hailee Steinfeld for acting her age.  For once, a young celebrity who isn't trying to overdo it or act older than she is - and let's face it, there aren't many women her age who are doing just that.    She has emerged as one of the ladies to watch for on the red carpet - and has continued to make the best dressed list throughout this awards season.

Here's a picture of Hailee from last week's Oscars.  She is wearing a Marchesa dress (that she helped design), Fred Leighton jewels, and Ferragamo clutch and heels.  Now if anyone older than Hailee wore this dress they would look a fool; however, this is perfect for a 14 year old girl.  It's sophisticated without screaming prom and the color looks gorgeous with her fair skin.

For the Golden Globes Hailee opted for the last gown she tried on - this Prabal Gurung cream gown with Tiffany Jewels and Ferragamo shoes.  Now even though I'm sure this leading lady has stylists giving her countless opinions and choices, I am so impressed with how confident she is when making her fashion decisions. Since she isn't very curvy right now, I love how this look frames her gorgeous shoulders.  The simplicity of the hair really shows off the dress and the pop of the turquoise clutch makes it fun.  It's a mature look that she makes her own - and her fresh faced make-up definitely ensures that you won't be confusing her with some of the other women in her category. 

My favorite thing about Hailee?  Her effortless style and desire to remain a young fashionista reflects in her every day life.  You can find her sporting skinny jeans, Tory Burch flats, and casual tops while walking the streets of LA.   Who knew that I would ever want to raid the closet of a 14 year old?  Well, I do and I'm not afraid to say it.  Hailee has definitely influenced the opinions of Hollywood elite and it's not just for her acting chops - this girls knows what's up when it comes to fashion.

So Bravo, Hailee!  Here's hoping that you have continued success in your career.

XOXO,

Allison

Get an Exquisite Glow with Benefit's Girl Meets Pearl

In the past I haven't had much success with "highlighters" due to the uneven application.  Don't get me wrong, the professional make-up artists seem to apply it in all the right spots on the models, but even when they would try it on me I would be unimpressed with the overall look.  I wanted a natural glow...not the appearance that I had just left a drag show!

Well...when I read the reviews on Benefit Cosmetics Girl Meets Pearl I wasn't sure what to think.  For the most part I've had a lot of success with Benefit's products, but I just didn't know whether or not this product was worth the hype.  So when I had to spend just a few more dollars online to qualify for a free beauty bag (they get me every time!) I decided to try the product out.

Girl Meets Pearl, $30

The product promises that you will be able to wear it over make-up or alone, and I have to say that personally over the make-up is the only way I could wear it.  That's not to say that I don't think some women could wear the product alone just fine; in fact, if you don't care for foundation a little "Girl Meets Pearl" might be just want you need to amp your look up for the night.  However, I have some red undertones to my face, so when applying the "Girl Meets Pearl" alone, it seems to accentuate those natural shades.  Therefore, I think wearing it alone will depend on the person's complexion.

Even though I didn't care for it alone, I was very impressed with the nature of this 2010 Best Highlighter of the Year.  The applicator is great, and works almost like a spice shaker or some deodorants.  You simply twist up enough product to come through the small holes, and apply over make-up.  I normally do it in between my tinted moisturizer and powder on the apples of my cheek when I want a more subdued look and over my entire look when I am looking for more of a glow.  The applicator allows you to get just the right amount depending on which look you are going for - therefore you won't waste product.

Girl Meets Pearl Applicator

For $30 it's definitely worth looking into - especially with the airiness of the spring and summer months coming up.  It gives you an ethereal feel that will look great with some of the softer materials and colors that show up with the sun comes out and the temps go up!  The effects are great and you can create completely different looks depending on what look you are going for and how much you apply.  In fact, I think this is a great product for any upcoming brides - you will look heavenly with a natural, radiant glow!  

So appear angelic...even if it's only on the outside.  It will be our secret :).  

XOXO,

Allison