Friday Favorites: Weekend Edition

I’m spending my Sunday editing some new purchase posts, only getting out of bed to work out, and giggling with Amy Poehler and Tina Fey. Hope your’s is just as Hashtag #lazysunday

Favorite Item

Mirrored Tray

My sister got me this tray for Christmas. I was looking for a mirrored tray for my perfumes and vanity decor and she went a step farther by having it monogrammed. Amazing. It looks super high brow and I’m not ashamed. The size is perfect for holding what I wanted to display…

You can shop a similar one here – Mirrored Dresser Top Trays

Favorite Look

Waves

I haven’t used my Sultra wand since this summer and I can’t seem to comprehend why I retired it for so long. I was getting a little tired of my hairstyle – I almost always curl it at the ends for fullness – so I decided to switch it up. So pleased. Beach waves never go out of style, especially when you don’t want to look too overdone. I already have a full of face of makeup so keeping the hair a little more casual is a nice balance. The wand looks intimidating at first but it’s become second nature to me. I usually wrap my hair around a couple times and then leave the ends so that I don’t end up looking like Curly Sue (Google her).

You can try it here – Sultra Waving Wand 

Favorite Beauty Product

Sephora Collection Flatter Yourself Contouring Brush Set

I ordered this brush set a couple weeks ago and was going to do a full review but haven’t had enough time to really get up close and personal. It was an exclusive and I’m a sucker for an exclusive – mainly because I get anxiety over the fact that there is a product out there that if not purchased, will be out of reach forever. These are the types of regrets I simply cannot live with. Anyway, the bristles are remarkably soft and high quality and the set of 3 is complimentary and nice for creating a basic contour (as well as buffing and blending liquid makeup). Not to mention, they come with blotting papers, a sleek little pouch and a contour guide. Overall, it contains a stippling brush, a buffing brush, and and angled blush brush. I’m getting used to using the stippling brush because I’ve never used one before, but the buffing and blush brushes I can work with like a freaking pro. Love.

You can shop it here – Sephora Collection Flatter Yourself Contouring Brush Set

Favorite Purchase

Wildfox Onesie

No you shut YOUR mouth. Yeah. I got a onesie with cat ears on the hood. What startingly amazing thing have you done recently?

Favorite Food

Teavana

I, along with most of the female population, have vowed to get back into my healthy eating habits for the new year. I’m not into resolutions but I figured now was as good a time as any to detox by body after I indulged the sh*t out of Christmas. I started feeling a little Chipmunk like after hoarding every treat placed in front of me. Ya feel me? So – in addition to upping my workouts and monitoring my food intake, I’ve started hitting up loose tea. In no way am I ridiculous enough to believe that this is a food replacement (refer to: Favorite Food) but I didn’t feel like tweaking the title.  I picked up a fancy little holiday set right before Christmas and am actually shocked at how much they satisfy my sweet tooth. The set embraces the scents and tastes of the holiday season, and you can’t beat pumpkin spice and peppermint in one setting. Specifically, it contains 4 holiday teas which consist of Pumpkin Spice Brûlée, White Chocolate Peppermint, Chococaramel Sea Salt, and Spiced Apple Cider. I haven’t tried them all but so far I love the white chocolate peppermint and chococaramel sea salt. Probably because they’re the most indulgent sounding. Pathetic.

I don’t believe that this set is still available but you can get a ton of similar ones here – www.teavana.com

Favorite Pastime

Voraciously Reading

I’ve been trying to catch up on all the books sitting in my iBookshelf. I download them like they’re going to vanish within seconds – big up to purchase anxiety, yet again. Although I love reading on my iPad, there are some books I feel are worth buying in physical form. Coffee table books and books having to do with style and fashion are a must have tangible good. They look pretty and class up the joint, plus you can mark off and go back to them without having to scroll through hundreds of pages. I’d been wanting to read Sophia Amoroso’s #girlboss for months now. I’ve been a loyal Nasty Gal investor (read – shopper) and am always open to a little inspiration and advice, especially from such a powerhouse. I’m halfway in and am marking off pages worthy of anecdotes that need to be drilled into my head. Her uhf*ckwithable attitude is infectious, I’ll make sure to do a book report review when I’m done. I also purchased The Glitter Plan, which is Pam Skaist-Levy and Gela Nash-Taylor’s rise to infamy with Juicy Couture. Since Juicy is now fading into the outlet abyss and they’ve recently launched their new, more high endline – Pam & Gela, I was interested in reading their memoir. Yes Please is another can’t miss read. I am crushing hard on Amy Poehler. She is genuinely funny and offers up some really deep musings that you have to read a couple times to ensure she isn’t just f*cking with you. Idol status. Those are the 3 books I’ve started reading so far. I’ve also just purchased Serena by Ron Rash , Dead Stars by Bruce Wagner, and Paper Towns by John Green. There isn’t enough time in the day…

Here’s a list of book adaptations hitting the big screen this year (and as everyone knows – the book is always better than the movie).  21 Books to Read Before They Hit The Big Screen in 2015

Favorite Outfit

Ripped Denim

Excuse the shitty photo quality. I was just getting home from work and realized I didn’t take advantage of the cloudless day for a superior outfit pic. These black skinnies are from Zara (I believe I purchased them back in October). They’re not as skinny in the shin area, and I find that a lot of denim fails me in this area because I have smaller shins. Other than J Brand which fit like second skin, a lot of denim I’ve tried and even purchased falls short here. Anyway, the wash and the strategic shreds are great. I actually DIY expanded the knee rips (with my own two hands and all) so that they’re a little more edgy and not as clean looking. Paired them with a pair of Jeffrey Campbell lace up flats (mimicked off Aquazurra) and had a bit of Kurt Cobain meets Olivia Palermo.

Happy Weekend

xo

Purchased: Stuart Weitzman Highland Suede Boots

The fact that I spent the better half of 2013 drooling over these boots is a testament to my price justification. Plus they’re versatile, wearable with pretty much every single outfit I own and are hands down the hottest boot out there (months of sold out boutiques, sizes and late November restock dates say so).

I am smitten.

I went with the black suede as opposed to the sand shade. Mainly because black is my wardrobe staple and I find it’s easier to keep clean…

I purchased a suede protectant and cleaner (along with handy little brush) faster than the drool could dry up, so that I can spend my Sundays refurbishing them to perfection. I highly suggest doing this for any kind of suede boots you may have, whether they’re designer or not. Totally prolongs the longevity and keeps them looking brand new.

I have like 10 more OOTD posts where this came from. All season long son, all season long.

Oh right – you can sign on for wait lists here:

http://www.forwardbyelysewalker.com

http://www.stuartweitzman.com

http://www.neimanmarcus.com

Check out the many personalities…

These babies have so much in store for them…can’t wait.

xo

Sunday Style Inspiration

Fall is a fashionista’s best friend.

Welcome.

         

 

 

 

Style: Looks Of The Week

Back from hiatus…check out my celeb style picks. I’ve included looks for the past couple weeks since I’m trying to redeem my slacker status.

Gwen Stefani in all black. With mirrored shades and her signature red lip. Just the way I like her. She does expectant so good.

Rachel Zoe rocks a flared pant like no one else. Topped with a wool wide brim hat, gold detailed cape and classic bag, she is always so super chic.

My angel, Sandra Bullock in purple and orange creamsicle shades. This two toned Alex Perry dress is to die for, the lace, the sheer paneling, amazing. I am biased obviously. She could carry a Coach monogrammed bag and I would still have nothing but praise.

Naomie Harris has been working so many different breathtaking styles lately. This is no exemption. The paneled Chantilly lace Naeem Khan gown is amazing against her skin tone. The black velvet detailing makes it appropriate for this time of year as well.

Rose Byrne in an asymmetrical printed Dion Lee body con dress. She is so elegant, she can make even the craziest of prints look natural and classic.

Ashley Madekwe in bold black and white – but with a sexy twist. The patent bustier style top and Louboutin pumps give the stripes a more polished look.

Olivia Wilde is one of the hottest expectant moms I’ve ever seen. I like when the bearer of a bump can work her look. The patterned Gucci LBD and moto jacket pairing are made for each other.

Selita Ebanks is the epitome of class. Former VS model, she is more elegant and sexy when covered up than strutting her stuff. Really. Her style is almost always impeccable and on point. The fuzzy sweater, patent dark camel midi leopard print and Louboutin pumps are tasteful, trendy and still classic. She is gorgeous.

Kate Mara is a navy lace crop and matching pencil skirt. Are you kidding me? THIS is how you do matchy matchy. Every piece should compliment yet differentiate. The two toned pumps were the perfect choice. Love it.

Jennifer Hudson‘s fashion choices have gotten better and better every single year. She knows how to accentuate her hard earned figure and this white hot Kaufmanfranco wrap dress does just that. The white and beige ankle strap heels are to die for. I need them and I must find out where they’re from. Wow.

Nina Dobrev was one of my best dressed choices from last week’s People’s Choice Awards. What an elegant way to do glam and sexy. From the classy yet young updo, embellished Jenny Packham long sleeve cocktail dress to the metallic strappy heels – she is perfection. Starlets her age should take note.

Allison Williams’ bold blue and white dress is perfect on her. David Korma does her right. The white harness style detailing is amazing. And those bow tip two toned Loubs? Ugh. Love.

Jessica Alba please. Stop. No, don’t stop. Your fashion choices are Heaven sent. This strapless Jason Wu zippered midi and Casadei pump combo is TO DIE FOR. Her go to simple yet polished center part is the perfect accessory. Everything, Is. Perfect. She’s a class act.

Miranda Kerr showing you how to do chilly weather without having to bypass style. A deep V neck sweater, leather leggings, ankle boots and navy topper are perfect for winter. Keeping it simple yet still sexy is the key to an effortless look.

Friday Favorites – Weekend Edition

I have to admit – I’ve been slacking on the blog posts lately. Blame it on the holidays. Blame it on the shortbread cookies too. They’ve made my fingers so fat that I can’t type without hitting two keys at the same time. Valid explanation.

I owe you.

Here are this week’s FAVS.

FAVORITE LOOK

Everything about this outfit is perfection. The hair, the makeup, the ankle length frock, and the faux (please let it be a faux). This is the perfect way to style a dolled up look. The bedhead is a must, the light eyes and the red lip, and the casual aura doesn’t make it look to overdone. I’ve been trying to perfect this hairstyle for quite some time. Muse indeed.

FAVORITE SCENT

I found Lush’s Godmother soap in my stocking this Christmas. Huge eyes right now. Snow Fairy is my favorite Lush scent and this is like Snow Fairy x 3. 

FAVORITE PAST-TIME

Okay maybe it’s not my absolute favorite but the feeling I get after running is pretty good – especially since I know my piggish ways over the holidays are being rectified. I usually do 1.5-2 miles a day but I’m stepping up my game this year so I run and do a cardio HIIT workout in addition. I’ve been using Nike+ Running for a couple years now and tracking my runs is motivating and pushes me to run farther and harder. Recommend.

FAVORITE PRODUCT

My sister got me this little gem for Christmas and I am in love. Like, obsessed. Naked 3 who? This luxe palette has so many different shades of shimmer it’s insane, and they really compliment my skin tone, which is a huge issue for most people with lighter shades because the color doesn’t always appear as vibrant. Anyway, dying over this.

FAVORITE LIP COLOR

Feeding my NARS collection, I picked up this nude shade last week. Isola Bella. The most perfect nude with just the right amount of orange tint. I’ve been rocking the dark shades lately and this is a nice little break. Perfect for everyday wear too.

FAVORITE MEAL 

Eggs Benedict at Palomino. I’m drooling just looking at this photo. Hollandaise on the side was necessary, so were the balls of potato and mushroom. So amazing.

FAVORITE PURCHASE

I recently purchased the Wildfox Dreamer sleep shirt and have been living in it. It’s by far the most comfy, most luxe, and prettiest fabric ever. True to Wildfox’s style – obviously. There’s no way I was going to pass up the separates below. Plus they’re black, I need both colors. I hope my NY resolution isn’t viewing this right now. It would be disappointed.

FAVORITE PHOTO

Toasting to another year full of opportunity, new resolutions and tons of new outfits. I have so much to be grateful for. Here’s to 2014.

FAVORITE OUTFIT

I’m a huge fan of mixing girlie with casual basics and this is the epitome of just that.