How To: Headscarf

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Headscarves have been a staple in fashion for decades, and it’s easy to see why. They protect hair, cover a variety of styling sins, look chic and are a great alternative to a hat.

One can create numerous styles with a single scarf: turban, bohemian, retro, rocker. Find your favorite look and add some flavor to your next ensemble.

Tying a headscarf requires practice and patience – it never seems to go right the first time. Follow these great diagrams to find your favorite style:

• Headband Style – A simple style that can look sweet or bold. Fold square diagonally into a triangle. Roll scarf from long edge of triangle end towards the tip of the triangle so it becomes a long thick rectangular band. Flip hair upside and place center of band at forehead. Tie a square knot under hair at the top of the neck. Pull long edges of scarf from back of neck to hang in front. Vary the thickness and placement of the band for different looks.
• Retro Style – A glamorous style paired with big sunglasses. Fold square diagonally into a triangle. Place center of long edge of triangle just above hairline. Cross the ends of the scarf under chin. Bring ends around to back of neck loosely and tie together.
• Bohemian Style – Channel your inner-gypsy and pair with big voluminous beach hair.  Fold square diagonally into a triangle. Place center of long edge of triangle at middle of forehead. Bring edges of triangle around to back tightly and tie.

Festive Finds: Jumpsuits

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An ultra-modern alternative to the classic cocktail dress are jumpsuits. Easy and versatile, the jumpsuit is a fashion-forward option for a holiday event or New Years Eve. From casual to chic, there are a  plethora of cool iterations to this playful piece.

Choose solid colors and sophisticated fabrics for an evening-appropriate aesthetic. Available in straight leg or wide leg, the jumpsuit is comfortable and figure-flattering. Show off your best feature by choosing between halter top, tube top or one-shoulder options. With so many variations of this classic ensemble, it might be hard to choose just one:

Here are a few of my favorites:

BCBG MAX AZRIA: Beaute Lace Jumpsuit: $248.00

Catherine Malandrino:  Favorite Jersey Jumpsuit: $395.00

Rachel Pally: Heathcliff Jumpsuit: $242.00

BCBG MAX AZRIA: Leeo Draped One-Shoulder Jumpsuit: $248.00

Rachel Zoe: Edith Shawl Collar Jumpsuit: $197.97 (sale)

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

Currently Coveting: Vince Leather Jogging Pants

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Jogging down the runways of Alexander Wang, Isabel Marant and Michael Kors, the jogging pant is a sporty and comfortable alternative from everyday denim or leggings. Evolving from jersey, the jogger can be found in silk, satin, wool and/or leather.

The jogging pants trend introduces a new hybrid of sweatpants and haram pants. The slouchy, relaxed fit and tapered leg is very figure-friendly. A great pant to dress up, the jogger yearns for your highest, high-heel. Keep the rest casual for a perfectly chic ensemble.

I am currently coveting the Vince Leather Jogging Pants. Sporty-style with some edge.

Trench Time: Club Monaco Harper Trench

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There are a few wardrobe staples that every girl should splurge on and a trench coat is one of them. Synonymous with Fall, a trench coat is a classic coat that can be worn again and again, season after season, year after year.

Each season, the classic silhouette is updated to suit upcoming trends; cropped, long, textured, printed, metallic. I am a big believer of – if it ain’t broke… The classic design has been around since World War I and is still going strong.

Two qualities of my perfect trench coat are classic in design and beautifully tailored. My current favorite is the Harper Trench by Club Monaco. It features the classic double-breasted style with button closure and belted sleeve hem. The fit is strong but feminine and very flattering.

A trench coat is a versatile fashion piece that can be worn with both light and heavy layers. Rain or shine the trench coat is a classic and chic must-have.

Western Style: H by Hudson Riley Mid Boot

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Saddle-up in style with a Western-inspired boot. H by Hudson’s Riley Mid Boot is that perfect mix of rugged utility and sophistication.

The perfect kickstart to your Fall wardrobe, this boot provides comfort and relaxed style with gently-worn leather and chunky Cuban heel.

The H by Hudson Riley Mid Boot has the ability to dress things up or work as a chic but casual option. Pair with your favorite designer jeans or feminine floral dress. No matter what you choose you will add a bit of style to your stride.

About Hudson:

Born in 1990, Hudson has been putting their best foot forward for more than two decades with its high quality, affordable shoes. Acknowledging trends and giving them our own idiosyncratic twist is the cornerstone of the Hudson philosophy. Whether it’s music, art, style icons or film, there is always inspiration to be found. Often imitated, never rivalled, Hudson will always strive to innovate, surprise and push boundaries in footwear design.

The Classics: Black Pump

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The classic black pump. Perfect for day or night, work or play. A shoe that will never, ever go out-of-style and with the right cobbler, will last forever. They might all look very similar, but not all pumps are created equal.

The iconic black pump is truly an “investment piece”. When considering the purchase of the perfect pump, there are several points (pun intended) to consider, including craftsmanship, quality of leather, toe shape, heel height and arch support. This is not an item that can be purchased online, one must kiss many frogs before finding a prince.

From a power suit or LBD, to a favorite pair of designer jeans, the classic black pump instantly creates a chic, put-together look. The reliable shoe is a vital component in every women’s closet. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Jimmy Choo ~ Anouk Patent Leather Point Toe Pumps: $575.00

2. Christian Louboutin ~ Decollete Calfskin Pointed-Toe Pump: $625.00

3. Manolo Blahnik ~ Manolo Blahnik BB: $595.00

4. Prada ~ Leather Point-Toe Pump: $620.00

5. Zara ~ Leather High Heeled Court Shoe: $89.90

Springtime in Paris: TOCCA Violette

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The latest edition to the TOCCA family of fragrances is “Violette”. A romantic and whimsical floral scent perfect for spring and summer.

TOCCA DESCRIPTION:

Violette evokes the whirlwind romance between a young soldier on leave and a young girl at the fragrance counter of Le Bon Marche in 1940s Paris. It is Springtime in Paris, vibrant blooms along the Champs-Elysees awaken the youthful spirit of first love.

Top Notes: Italian Bergamot, Ginger Oil, Coriander Seed Oil
Middle Notes: African Violet, Bulgarian Rose, Black Currants
Bottom Notes: Creamy Cedarwood, Cashmere Musk, Benzoin

TOCCA’s Violette emulates springtime in Paris. Sexy yet utterly romantic, it reeks of sophistication. Plus, the “old world” glass bottle looks incredibly chic on the vanity. TOCCA fragrances are long-lasting and never overpowering. Also lovely to spritz on freshly washed bed linens and towels. Comparison: If you like or have sampled Tom Ford’s Violet Blonde, you will love Violette.

THE STORY OF TOCCA:

TOCCA launched in 1994 by a group of friends with a vision for beautiful yet affordable clothes. Their early collection consisted of candy-colored terry cloth tube dresses to sari-inspired embroidered mini dresses. In Italian “TOCCA” is the word for “touch” – named after it’s intricate embroideries and luxurious fabrics. The launch of TOCCA Beauty  came in 1997, with three unique and unusual products: a solid perfume, a dry oil skin smoother and a laundry delicate for fine washables. The first fragrance was a gardenia-based potion called “Touch”. TOCCA Beauty continues to be renowned worldwide as a fragrance house of distinctive and exquisite scents. TOCCA’s coveted fragrances can be found in our luxury candle collection, fine fragrances and bath and body products and are sold in the finest boutiques worldwide.

Summer Makeup Collections 2012

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Summer Makeup Collections are my absolute favorite. The bright colors and fun, free-spirited nature embody what the summer should resemble. The color-palette in these collections are always inspired by some exotic destination and being swept away to a beach with blue skies, hot sun, pristine white sands and tropical surroundings. The following six collections embrace summer with delightfully sunny shades, bronzed/sun-kissed skin and vibrant bursts of color.

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Summertime De Chanel 2012 is currently available online and at your local counters. Peter Philips, Creative Director of Chanel Makeup, replicates the natural glow of radiant, sunbathed skin. The collection includes two bronzers, an eyeshadow duo, eye crayons, lipsticks, lipglosses, and nail polishes (all limited edition). It is saturated with luminous bronze, gold and copper shades with a pop of coral perfection.

Must Have: Soleil Tan de Chanel & Rouge Coco Shine in En Vogue (bright coral)

Dive into summer with Yves Saint Laurent Summer Collection 2012. Available online and at department store counters May 2012, the collection features both limited edition and permanent collection items. The collection consists of universally flattering hues that aim to boost the radiance of the complexion and emphasize natural beauty.  The collection combines discrete nudes infused with subtle shimmer and pops of aqua blues.

Must Have: Mascara Volume Effets Faux Cils Waterproof in Majorelle Blue

Dior Summer 2012 Croisette Collection is a magnificent compilation of limited edition and permanent items available May 2012. La Croisette is French for Little Cross Drive, the name of a prominent street in Cannes that stretches along the shore of the Mediterranean Sea. This collection is inspired by a walk down the famous La Croisette, the colors of the seaside mixed with the glamour of the French Riviera. The Croisette Collection interlace tranquil aquatic shades with soft pastels and shimmering silvers.

Must Have: 1-Couleur Eye Gloss in Sunset & Tan

Guerlain + Emilio Pucci Terra Azzura Summer 2012 Collection is now available and is exclusive to Sephora and Nordstroms. Guerlain teams up with Italian fashion house, Emilio Pucci for a new color range that is inspired by “summertime on the Italian Riviera”. The collection features a bronzer/blush palette, an eyeshadow quad, a mascara, three lip glosses, two nail polishes, a blush brush and Guerlain’s famous powder pearls (Meteorites Perles d’Azur) packaged in and designed by Pucci.

Must Have: Meteorites Perles D’Azur

NARS 2012 Summer Collection is available now online and wherever NARS is sold. The collection features intensely pigmented earth inspired hues that are spiked with a bit of shimmer to illuminate the complexion and create a healthy glow. From icy peach to terracotta this collection is extremely chic and versatile.

Must Have: Liberté Blush

Thakoon for NARS Founder and creative director Francois Nars has partnered with fashion designer Thakoon Pachnigul to develop a limited edition nail polish collection inspired by Thakoon’s Spring 2012 collection shown at New York Fashion Week. The new polishes include 6 bright colors that were inspired by the spices found on Indian markets – bold, spicy and vibrant.

Must Have: Koliary Nail Polish  (cyan blue)

Set sail for summer with MAC Hey Sailor! Summer 2012 Collection. Available May 24 (North America), May 2012 (International) this entire collection is limited edition. Hey Sailor! is a nautical-inspired collection combining vintage pin-up looks with nautical/aquatic shades. Decked out with stylish sailor-striped packaging the collection features a fleet of eye shadows, lipsticks, lipglass, powder blushes, pigments, Powerpoint eye pencils, Pro Long Wear lip pencils, nail lacquers and a new mascara – Zoom Water Fast Lash. Also featured in the collection are a boat-load of bronzing powders, Pro Long Wear bronzing powders, High-Light powders, MAC to the Beach body oil, Suntints and a new face blender brush 167SH.

Must Have: Zoom Water Fast Lash Mascara

How To: Glitter

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Sparkle this holiday season with a little glitter.

Application of glitter can go terribly wrong… fast. It is messy and can look too theatrical if not careful. To make glitter appear chic and sophisticated, use only a small amount in a concentrated area.

Start with product. The Illusion D’Ombre Eyeshadows by Chanel are by far my favorite. They have intense pigmentation and provide a classic shimmering effect with one easy-to-use swipe. They can be used with fingers or a very dense brush for perfect application. If actual glitter is desired, loose pigments/glitter are best. Make Up Forever Glitters are soft, concentrated and finely-milled for super sparkle.

How To Apply Glitter:

➺ On clean eyelids, apply eyeshadow primer from lash line to brow bone. (Favorite: Urban Decay Primer Potion)

➺ The glitter will need something to adhere to, apply a cream eyeshadow to the lid. This can be nude or a color that compliments the glitter. (Favorite: MAC Paint Pot)

➺ Using a small synthetic brush, dip into the glitter. Tap off excess.

➺ Press the glitter onto the lid in a dabbing motion. Do not sweep.

➺ Mist a setting spray gently on the eyes and wait to dry. (Favorite: Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray)

✴ If this technique is still too messy, on the back of hand or artist’s palette, mix cream eyeshadow and glitter together and apply to the lid. With glitter application, fallout is expected. Make sure to do eye makeup first and face makeup second. Dab the fallout with scotch tape to clean any loose particles.

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.

Silver Sparkle: Zara Sequined Blazer

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Zara Sequined Blazer

I am currently fawning over this silver sequined blazer by Zara. Though, I already own one in black, how many sequined jackets does one girl need? Answer… Two!!

This glamorous blazer is chic and edgy. The three-quarter length sleeves bring a casual element to the design. The relaxed tailoring provides comfort and movement.

Pair this saucy blazer with a white tee/tank or to appear even more casual layer in a grey-hoodie.

This silver sequined blazer from Zara is just too sparkly to pass up!

How To: Modern Ballerina Bun

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A modern twist on a classic bun, this hairstyle is not only easy but chic. A high disheveled hair bun is a quick way to add a bit of refinement to your look. Add texture in the hair or a dainty accessory to finish-off this stylish updo.

How to:

✒ Apply styling product to dry hair for hold.

✒With a boar-bristle brush, sweep hair back into a high ponytail. Fasten.

✒Add texture and volume to hair by teasing the ponytail gently and spray with texturizing hair spray.

✒Coil ends of ponytail around the base and pin haphazardly in place.

✒Tug at bun to position and pin back any short layers around the bun. Hairspray to hold.

✒If needed, add accessory, headbands, bows and flowers look especially adorable.

Look Complete!