Fantastic Flat: Splendid Newberry Flat

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Soft, supple suede and cushiony sole, makes Splendid’s Newberry Flat one of my new favorite finds. Available in a multitude of bright colors and everyday neutrals, it is hard to choose just one.

My first purchase, Sand (pictured), pairs well with everything and works well with my work wardrobe. However, I am already contemplating a next purchase in Punch (bright red) and, of course, Black.

This simple ballet flat looks delicate and girly. The suede is so soft I was afraid they would loose structure quickly. However, I am pleasantly surprised that they are holding up so well after very long work weeks.

Finding a simple, comfortable flat is not as easy as it looks. These fulfill all your basic everyday needs, wrapped up in a simple and elegant design. Try them – let me know what you think.

Brow Builder: It Cosmetics Brow Power

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IT Cosmetics Brow Power Universal Eyebrow Pencil is no ordinary pencil. This ultra-fine, high-definition, long-wearing, automatic eyebrow pencil adjusts to your specific brow color and supports healthy hair growth.

The super-skinny tip draws the tiniest of lines, allowing you to easily mimic the look of natural brow hairs. The spooly-end brushes and polishes the brows, perfecting the look. How can one pencil be universally flattering? By using softer strokes to match lighter hair, including blonde and silver and pressing a bit harder for darker hair, including medium brown to black.

The crayon-like texture goes on very lightly, so you can layer for the particular look you are going for – whether it’s natural or a bold “statement” brow. The formula is smudge-proof, waterproof and filled with good-for-you ingredients like panthenol, Vitamins A, C, and E. It also contains GrowLuxe technology, which is formulated with Saw Palmetto, Nettle Flower Extract, Horsetail Flower Extract, Green Tea Extract and Grapeseed Extract – promoting healthy hair growth. The American Cancer Society approved Brow Power as being safe for ultra-sensitive skin; this plus the GrowLuxe formula makes this pencil perfect for those who have lost their brows due to chemotherapy. In fact, for every Brow Power pencil sold, IT Cosmetics donates one pencil to the Look Good, Feel Better Program which helps women with cancer regain their confidence in their physical appearance.

Amazing? Yes.

Holy Grail: FAIRYDROPS Scandal Queen Mascara

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Inspired by the desire to enhance her eyes both on and off camera, Japanese TV personality Aya Yasuda created FAIRYDROPS – a Japanese makeup line that features amazing mascaras.

Japan’s best-selling mascara was brought stateside to sample. The version, FAIRYDROPS Scandal Queen Mascara, is a do-it-all mascara that creates incredibly lush, doll-like lashes and my new HG.

The Brush: Unique in shape, the patented 3-sphere brush is placed on a curved wand that kisses the lash line. The brush catches every single, tiny lash creating perfect definition and length.

The Formula: The dense, fibrous formula does not clump or run. (which is interesting because there are a million tiny fibers). Formulated with a cocktail of moisturizing ingredients such as squalane, jojoba seed oil, panthenol, hydrolyzed collagen, and sodium hyaluronate, every lash is coated and accentuated. Available in one shade – black – the formula is water-resistant and wears all-day without a smudge. Then can be removed effortlessly with a little warm water. Magic!

The Result: The best and most creative mascara I have used. Replaces my previous holy grail, HERE. The fibrous wand does all the work for you. In just one coat – lashes are feathered perfectly, lengthened, defined and exactly how it is described – “doll-like.”

The Problem: This mascara has been discontinued and is no longer sold at Sephora, online. There are still a few at the stores but in limited supply, so get yours before it’s too late. (Also check your local Asian markets, Amazon and EBay)

 

Currently Coveting: Rag & Bone Small Pilot Bag

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Currently Coveting: Rag & Bone Small Pilot Bag.

Appropriately dubbed the “Pilot,” this is Rag & Bone’s inaugurate bag. First seen in the pages of Vogue last June and available for purchase in September, Marcus Wainwright, designer and managing partner, says this of the process:

It took like a year and a half. It was very difficult. Unless you launch a huge range of bags, which we didn’t think was the right thing to do, the other option is just to focus on one specific bag, which puts pressure on that bag to be absolutely right. So we spent a long time doing the wrong thing when we started a year and a half ago. About six months after we started that process, we took a step back and just started again by focusing on what we thought the Rag & Bone girl was and what her bag would look like, and I think that’s what we got in the end.

It’s taken from an old army helmet bag—that sort of influences where the shape came from, with those two front pockets. We felt a good place to start was the helmet bag just because it’s very practical, it’s a great shape and it has this sense of history that people are somewhat familiar with and that you can reinterpret and twist into something that is very Rag & Bone and very modern and it looks really cool. So the military influence that we reference in our collection again and again and again is there in the bag. The hooks that connect that strap are actually military hardware.

The Pilot is available in two sizes – small and large – and feature a crossbody strap for hands-free moments as well as top handles. Exclusive to Barneys and Rag & Bone online, one can purchase this bag in the following colors Black, Walnut, Navy, Mocha, Yellow and new for Spring Navy Floral.

Festive Frocks: LRD

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Get in the holiday spirit this season with a classic LRD. The blushing alternative to black, the little red dress combines a spirited color palette and holiday flare that will sizzle at any event this season.

When wearing red… think sophisticated not cheap. Look for sharp lines, great design and a fairly conservative cut. Pair with neutrals like black or nude and try not to over accessorize. Keep it simple, keep it chic.

Here are a few of my favorite festive frocks:

Splendid ~ Washed-Crepe Shirt Dress: $110.00

Alice + Olivia ~ Peplum Knit Dress: $264.00

Three Floor ~ Bad Girl Dress: $308.00

Black Halo ~ Jackie Belted Gabardine Sheath Dress: $345.00

Miu Miu ~ Flared Stretch-Jersey Dress: $595.00

Steller Styler: ghd Gloss Collection Limited Edition

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ghd, the global leader in professional hairstyling, introduces their new limited edition Gloss Collection. Available in two colors, red gloss or black gloss, the collection arrives just in time for the holidays.

Achieve a multitude of looks from gorgeous party curls to a sleek frizz-free straight style. This collection features ghd’s bestselling Classic 1″ Styler dressed in a gloss finish. It boasts breakthrough technologies such as an auto sleep mode, universal voltage and a signature rounded barrel. Styling plates are contoured with a high-gloss finish to glide through the hair effortlessly, while providing extra shine.

Available exclusively at ULTA, the Gloss is the best iron I have used. From curls, flicks and waves to sleek and straight style, this styler does it all. Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver, creating new hairstyles have never been so easy.

 

Peplum Punch: Tory Burch

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Tory Burch’s Madeline Peplum Sweater is a great transitional piece as we await the cold weather. The mid-weight angora and wool blend provides comfortable wear with a flattering fit. Available in Wildberry (pictured), Camel and Black, the peplum style offers a subtle twist on a classic pullover.

The fluttering peplum hem is this season’s most feminine silhouette. Toughen the look with a leather pant or bold print. Or keep it classic with a sophisticated pencil skirt or designer denim.

Sweaters are a comfortable and cozy must-have for colder months, but can get very monotonous and well… boring. Make the season’s staple more interesting with a spicy shade or fresh structure. It will brighten up even the gloomiest of days.

Affordable Accessories: H&M

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Update your look for less with affordable accesories. H&M covers all the trends, basics and frills you could possibly need. From cold weather necessities to staples, H&M is a one-stop shop for inexpensive items.

Leather Gloves: $29.95

30-Pack Bracelets: $5.95

Necklace: $24.95

Cap: $5.95

Chain Necklace: $5.95

Brown & Black Leather Belt: $12.95 (each)

Tube Scarf: $9.95

Spike Necklace: $12.95

10-Pack Rings: $4.95

Headband: $6.95

Sophisticated Scent: Chanel Coco Noir

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A 2012 launch I was extremely excited for was Chanel’s new fragrance Coco Noir. The scent is the third in the Coco franchise, joining 1984’s Coco and 2001’s Coco Mademoiselle. As a loyal servant to Coco Mademoiselle, I had to test it’s counterpart.

Created by Jacques Polge, master perfumer at Chanel, Coco Noir marks a return to Oriental fragrances for the House. Recalling his journey to unveil the mystery of black through fragrance, Monsieur Polge explains, “The night vision of the ‘Orient that starts and ends in Venice’ imposed itself upon me, and that is where I wanted to go.”

Striking top notes of Grapefruit and Calabrian Bergamot accentuate the floral accord with Rose and Jasmine, while Indonesian Patchouli, Sandalwood and Bourbon Vanilla notes add warmth to the seductive scent.

The Coco fragrances by Chanel are very personal to me. My mother has worn Chanel Coco ever since I can remember which is why I believe I am so drawn to it’s younger sibling Coco Mademoiselle. As for the newest family member, Coco Noir is an exquisite fragrance that reeks of sophistication and luxury. Saved for a very special occasion, this is no versatile, everyday perfume. One day I will graduate to Coco Noir’s level of sophistication, but as of yet I feel I am still too young.

Season-less Staple: Rachel Roy 24 Hour Dress

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Transition from day to night / summer to fall with effortless style in Rachel Roy’s 24 Hour Dress. 

A conceptual design for 24 hour functionality, this comfortable dress works in the daytime, nighttime, work-time and party-time. The ruching at the waist and deep pockets provide a relaxed, unencumbered, figure-flattering style. Chic and impeccably tailored, the 24 Hour Dress is extremely affordable at around $89.00.

Strap on some sandals or flat boots, add a panama and gold bracelets for an easy daytime look. Take this dress into night with pumps or booties, pattern tights and jewels or a simple belt – any width, color, design.

Each season this dress is slighted altered in color and material, but never the style. In past collections, this dress has been made of velvet, splattered with paint and shined in metallics. Also sold at Macys, the 24 Hour Dress is available in black all-year-round.

New for Fall: Youngblood Incredible Wear Gel Liner in Sienna

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Youngblood Incredible Wear Gel Liners are ultra creamy and long-lasting. Packed with pigment, these gel liners are available in five colors, three matte and two shimmer:

• Eclipse: Black
• Galaxy: Deep grey with silver shimmer
• Espresso: Dark brown
• Midnight Sea: Deep cobalt blue
• Black Orchid: Deep purple

Youngblood’s Fall Collection includes a new addition to the Incredible Wear Gel Liners family, Sienna. Sienna is a rich metallic bronze shade will subtle gold and copper flecks. This amazing color will enhance green and blue eyes as well as flatter brown and hazel eyes.

The ultra-creamy formulation enable this product to work not only as a liner but cream eyeshadow as well. The unique hybrid dones a sheer wash of color with long-lasting effects. For a quick and effortless smokey eye, use a brush or finger and pat product on the eyelid/under-eye and blend the harsh lines. The creamy consistency makes is very easy to work with these liners and mold the color to your liking. With Youngblood Incredible Wear Gel Liners cat-eyes, flicks and smoky eyes are a cinch.

Summer Must-Have: Stellar Sunglasses

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One of my favorite warm-weather accessories… sunglasses. A summer must-have, the perfect pair of sunglasses not only look good but initiates a sense of confidence.

Sunglasses are a great way to reflect your unique style. Consider mixing it for the summer months. If you always go black – try-on a fun, bright color or cool print. If you always go for the same shape, try-on something different, like a trendy round frame or the universally flattering cat-eye.

If you can’t stray from the classics, brands like Ray-Ban release new collections all the time, featuring new and trendy colors or prints. A slight twist on a classic style.

Eyewear is constantly evolving with new styles and trends. Here are a few stellar sunnies:

Rebecca Minkoff ~ Bedford Sunglasses: $230.00

Matthew Williamson by Linda Farrow: Jackie O Sunglasses: $352.00

Ray-Ban ~ RB2140 Original Wayfarer (Rare Prints Collection): $150.00

Stella McCartney ~ Aviator: $250.00

Dita ~ Mariposa: $425.00

Elizabeth and James ~ Layfayette Cat Eye Sunglasses: $155.00

Classic Wedge: STEVEN by Steve Madden Banndo

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STEVEN by Steven Madden Banndo is the perfect wedge to have in your collection. This shoe will pair perfectly with any color, pattern or style it is coupled with. The sandy suede texture has a soft, comfortable feel while the lightweight synthetic wedge adds support.

Pair these shoes with Spring florals and pastels. They are the perfect height for flared denim as well as a flattering shape for cropped. Available in leather or suede, black or tan, this classic wedge will wear perfectly all spring and summer long.

Handbag Trend: Bright Neon

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Spice up dreary winter fashion with neon hues. Fluorescent-colored bags are radiating in stores everywhere. These high-wattage accessories can add a fresh and fun look to wardrobe staples.

Incorporate neon pieces into your closet this season. Paired with black, a pop of glowing color presents a more stimulating look. Vivid colors can bring-out tones and details in patterns, prints and florals and coupled with neutrals, neons with look sharp and modern.

The neon trend continues to glow year after year. This season create your own fresh take on the trend.

Net-A-Porter ~ Marc by Marc Jacobs: Neon Croc-Effect Leather Shoulder Bag: $495.00

Bloomingdale’s ~ The Cambridge Satchel Company: Fluorescent Satchel-Neon: $155.00

Barneys New York ~ Givenchy Medium Leather Nightingale: $2265.00

Neiman Marcus ~ Michael Kors: Gia Ostrich -Embossed Leather Clutch, Neon Pink: $450.00

Boot Dupe: Isabel Marant Dicker Boot

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The coveted Isabel Marant Dicker Boot is in great demand this season, and not to mention, sold out in most stores. The suede ankle boots have quickly become a must-have item for Fall Fashion. Adorned by celebrities and fashionistas everywhere, the Dicker Boot appears to agree with anything paired with it. It’s proven versatility and range represents effortless style that can be worn all-year-round.

With a price tag of around $600, I have scoured the web in search of similar – more affordable – options. Each replica is a great rendition of a classic ankle boot and are available in black, tan, brown/cognac. Create a standout casual style with these worthy advisories.

Steve Madden ~ Pembrook: $99.98

Dolce Vita ~ Jamison Ankle Boot: $119.00

Report ~ Marks Bootie: $98.95

Old Navy ~ Faux-Leather Ankle Boots: $22.99

Sequined Basics: J. Crew Glimmer Long Sleeve Tee

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J. Crew Glimmer Long Sleeve Tee

As the holiday season approaches, sparkle is everywhere. Taken in small doses, sequined pieces can spruce up a wardrobe instantly.

The Glimmer Long Sleeve Tee by J. Crew is the perfect example of pairing glitzy items with simple toned-down ones. Available in black, stormy sea and dark khaki (pictured here), these simple boat-neck cotton tees are drenched in tiny sequins.

Pair with denim or simple black pants for an everyday look. Under a great blazer or jacket with the sleeves rolled to peek at the glittery layers. Or at night, coordinate with clean shorts, tights and textured heels.

Sparkle this season with everyday basics that shine.

Stylish Snood: AllSaints Yossi Snood Hood

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AllSaints Yossi Snood Hood

A Snood (also known as infinity scarf) is a tubular neck scarf that resembles a close-fitting hood worn over head. Popular in the 1940s, women used them to keep their long hair out of the way.

This versatile scarf-hood hybrid is both stylish and practical. It can be worn around shoulders or propped-up over head and will not only keep you warm but protect hair and face from weather conditions.

The Yossi Snood Hood by AllSaints is simple and chic. It is soft and comfy with cable knit detailing. Also available in black and cream, the Yossi Snood Hood is a must-have accessory for Fall.

Couture Collaboration: Karl Lagerfeld for Macy’s

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Pictures from the Karl Lagerfeld for Macy’s press preview were unveiled yesterday. The collection hits 235 stores on August 31 and are priced from $50 – $170.

Karl Lagerfeld has been a freelance designer for many fashion houses, Balmain, Patou, Chloe, Fendi and Chanel. Currently, Lagerfeld designs for three companies, his own label, Chanel and furs for Fendi of Italy.

Karl Lagerfeld for Macy’s is comprised of dresses – floral and structural, tweed separates – shorts and vests, and faux leather jackets. All of the 45 piece collection is in black and white, with subtle pops of pink.

Collection is available online and in stores August 31.

Skinny Belts: H&M 3-Pack Belts

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H&M 3-Pack Belts

H&M 3-Pack Belts are an inexpensive option to incorporate in everyday style.

The skinny style belts are available in two separate sets, Lion Yellow and Mole. The neutral set, Lion Yellow, come with brown, black and mustard. The pastel set, Mole, come with rose, dusty blue and taupe.

Cinch these belts around dresses, tunics or skirts. Or pair with new Fall denim trends like cognac or wine-dyed denim. No matter how they are worn, these 3-pack belts are a great option to have available in your closet.

Weekend Ensemble: Splendid

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This weekend make the transition from day-to-night simple with Splendid’s Maxi Tube Skirt/Dress.

This basic piece is multi-functional and essential for summer-wear. The jersey material provides comfort and stretch and will maintain it’s shape for either skirt or dress-wear.

For daytime, wear as a skirt over a swimsuit or simple tank. At night, pair with bright espadrilles and textured baubles. Add a belt to both the skirt or dress for an added embellishment.

Splendid’s Maxi Tube Skirt/Dress is available in an array of bright colors as well as black and heather grey. Choose your favorite and seamlessly create an entire weekend ensemble with just one piece.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Ashling