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

Personalized Presents: Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry

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GLOW-T GIFT GUIDE

Personalize your gift-giving this year with Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry. From initial necklaces, monogram rings to sweet reminders, Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry is simple, delicate and feminine.

The daughter of a clothing manufacturer, Jennifer Zeuner grew up in Puerto Rico where she developed a love of bright colors and smooth textures. The influence from fabrics was translated into her characteristic jewelry designs. She began designing jewelry in South Florida and was featured in 2006 GenArt Miami Fresh Faces Fashion Show. Since then, her work has adorned many major celebrities and is growing in popularity.

Zeuner ‘s creations are for women who like light, clean lines and patterns. Her style is classic and simple with a bohemian charm. Personalize your next gift with a friend’s initial, family monogram, engraved bar or ring. All pieces can be purchased in gold, silver rose gold and gold vermeil (sterling silver dipped in 14 karat gold) prices will vary. Customize the chain length, type of metal and/or clasp – all pieces are designed to your order. Here are a few of my favorite Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry pieces:

Triple Integrated Letter Necklace: $232.00

Addison Bracelet: $132.00

Rosa: $88.00

Swirly 3 Initial Monogram Ring: $198.00

Mini Initial on Chain Bracelet: $132.00

Luciana Ring Set: $198.00

Fall Favorite: Lollia – When The Leaves Turn No. 85

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Lollia’s When the Leaves Turn No. 85 candle is the perfect scent for season’s change. Truly redolent of Fall, this candle fills the air with nostalgia of time spent jumping into a pile of freshly fallen leaves.

Lollia’s candles are some of my favorite. High-quality and trustworthy, the aroma is always constant and strong. The candles burn evenly and seem to last forever. Great last minute gift idea, the packaging is simple and elegant.

Description: A flickering flame to reminisce on simple pleasures not to be forgotten. 85 When the Leaves Turn lends a Summer glow that gives way to fiery hues, leaving the aura of crackling leaves and teakwood filling the air with the rumor of Fall.

• Top notes of green tulip and water hyacinth.
• Middle notes of cut greens, bamboo, and sage.
• Bottom notes of muguet (Lilly of the Valley) and teak

About Lollia:
Created by designer Margot Elena, Lollia offers a complete world of delightful scents, bath and body treats, and candles. Margot Elena first became known for her Archive bath line, and Lollia is a continuation of the designer’s unerring skill for creating fresh, feminine scents. The beautiful packaging takes traditional motifs and reinterprets them in Margot Elena’s signature designs and color palettes.

Beauty Royalty: AERIN Beauty

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This week Aerin Lauder, granddaughter of Estée, launched her own cosmetics and lifestyle brand, AERIN. The brand kicked off the debut with it’s first line of cosmetics, AERIN Beauty. In the future, plan on appreciating new collections of accessories, sunglasses, shoes and home decor.

Stepping down from her role of Senior Vice President and Creative Director of Estée Lauder, Aerin plans on holding a less demanding consulting role. Speaking of consulting… helping her build the brand are Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and former NBC head Jeff Zucker.

AERIN Beauty is nothing short of elegant and feminine. Inspired by Aerin’s own beauty secrets, the lovely range aims to create a daily beauty routine that easily fits into a stylish lifestyle. A delicate signature Rose scent threads through the collection and is all bundled up in pretty pink and gold packaging. The collection features simple, everyday-wearable products that look and feel luxurious.

Shop Your Closet: Beach Cover-Up

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Cover-ups keep you comfortable and stylish on the beach. If you do not want to bare all in swimwear, throw on a simple piece for a walk on the beach, dining al fresco or party/BBQ. You can invest in items created specifically as a cover-up, or find pieces in your closet that serve double duty on the beach.

As the sun goes down and it starts to get chilly, cover-up with a light oversized or cropped knit sweater or chambray shirt. The knit sweater will keep you warm and cozy with effortless style. The chambray shirt looks easy breezy worn open or for a bit more drama tie-up the ends.

For situations where you might need a bit more coverage: dining al fresco/outdoor pool party/beach BBQ, cover-up with a simple slip dress or tunic. These lightweight pieces are easy to slip-on over your swimsuit, and if the material happens to get wet, it will dry quickly. Spice it up a bit with some unexpected accessories that wouldn’t normally be worn in such a casual style: statement necklace, bold and vibrant earrings or stacked multi-textured bracelets.

Wraps are the most versatile way to cover-up your swimsuit. Usually made of a lightweight fabric, wraps come in solid colors and a variety of bright prints. Scour your closet for your favorite lightweight scarf. These are great alternatives for wraps and available in a wider variety of prints, patterns and colors. Simply wrap the scarf around your waist for a skirt cover-up or transform into a strapless tube dress by wrapping it like a towel. Safety pin to secure.

Repurpose these pieces found in your closet for a great day at the beach:

Brandy Melville ~ Kayla Sweater: $60.00

Calypso St. Barth ~ Castaway Cotton Tunic: $99.00 (sale)

T by Alexander Wang ~ Matte Jersey Crossback Maxi: $156.00

Gap ~ 1968 Chambray Tunic: $54.95

Juicy Couture ~ Chevron Striped Scarf: $23.40 (sale)

Style Your Stems: Floral Pants

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Style your stems in floral prints and patterns. A fun and fresh way to wear pants, these bold and colorful botanicals are truly statement-making.

With a little structure, these pieces look ultra fresh and modern. Don’t complicate things with a game of layers. Keep it simple. Try a cropped sweater or delicate tee for an effortless daytime look and silk cami and blazer for night. Add a great pair of sandals or heels and you have created the 1/2 & 1/2 (part elegance/part edge).

Here are a few beguiling blooms for inspiration:

Zara ~ Cropped Printed Trousers w/ Zip: $19.00 (sale) 

Tibi ~ Floral-Print Silk Crepe De Chine Pants: $330.00

Ella Moss ~ Rosa Flora Pants: $148.00

DKNY ~ Printed Stretch Silk Crepe De Chine Pants: $245.00

Cynthia Rowley ~ Zigzag Floral Bonded Leggings: $225.00

Straw Topper: Club Monaco Nancy Straw Fedora

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Warm weather and outdoor fun requires a little shelter from the sun. Club Monaco’s Nancy Straw Fedora is the perfect retreat.

Made from intertwined straw, it is extremely lightweight and comfortable. It will protect your face, hair and scalp from the sun. The neutral color will complement just about anything you pair with it and has a relaxed style perfect for lazy summer days.

Simple and effortless, the Nancy Straw Fedora is the perfect topper to add some character to your look.

Club Monaco ~ Nancy Straw Fedora: $39.00 (sale) original price: $69.50

Four Favorites: Flip-Flops

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Flip-flops are not only a staple in my summer uniform, but year-round. I own way too many to admit to. I have also tried too many to admit to.

My two basic needs when choosing a flip-flop: comfort and style. I do not like a lot of bells and whistles or intricate design. I stay simple and natural in color and design. These shoes should last forever and never compete with seasonal trends. Here are my four forever favorites:

J.Crew ~Vineyard Leather Flip-Flops: $49.50

Rainbow ~ Black Leather Narrow Strap: $49.00

TKEES ~ Flip-Flop: $47.95

Havaianas ~ SLIM: $26.00

GLOW-T AWARDS: Xen-Tan Absolute Gold

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BEST OF THE BEST: Xen-Tan Absolute Gold 

Xen-Tan Absolute Gold is my Summer 2012 winner for best self-tanning product. In just one application this self-tanner produces a rich, deep, olive-based tan that lasts.

The luxurious formula contains a color guard made of 24K gold leaf. Usually, I am not a fan of color guards. I believe them to be unnecessary and the reason behind messy application. However, the gold sheen in this product is very flattering and subtle. It dries nicely and does not rub-off on clothing or bed linens.

Enriched with Shea Butter, Absolute Gold is incredibly moisturizing – which is why, I believe, it lasts so long. The rich lotion feels very pampering on the skin and does not stick to stubborn dry patches. It absorbs into the skin very quickly, which cuts out drying time, but forces application to be speedy. The formula contains Xen-Tan’s innovative “Scent Secure” – a ground-breaking technology that blocks out self-tan (DHA) odor. And has a sweet vanilla scent, that reminds me of yummy marzipan.

For an easy, single-application, luxurious-feeling, natural-looking dark tan – you need to try Xen-Tan Absolute Gold.

Read my post on: Application Tips & Tricks

Drink More Water!

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Drinking water is essential to health, beauty and longevity. The simple act of drinking water is extremely important in helping our bodies stay functioning at their optimum capacity.

The average body is made up of 55 to 65 percent water. The brain consists of almost 70 percent water. Water is essential for hydrating your organs, digestion, circulation, maintenance of body temperature, lubricating your joints and carrying oxygen and nutrients throughout your bloodstream. Just to name a few…

Water assists in the flushing or removal of harmful toxins from the body. Toxins come from a variety of sources and must be flushed out of the body to avoid hurtful build-up. Drinking plenty of water helps to cleanse the body systems of these toxins. Overall, your body will look and feel better.

Skin is an organ, and just like any other part of the body your skin is made up of cells. And skin cells, like any other cell in the body, are made up of water. Without water, the organs will certainly not function properly or at their best. Think of a plant that you may have forgotten to water once, the way it wilted and shriveled. By staying properly hydrated you allow your body enough extra moisture to produce healthy skin cells. Your skin will thank you for the extra moisture by looking and feeling healthier, firmer and brighter.

When you’re low on fluids, the brain triggers the body’s thirst mechanism. Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink water. For those who struggle with drinking plain water there are alternative options. Herbal, black and green teas can make the experience more pleasurable, plus you boost your antioxidant intakes. There are a wide variety of water flavorings, just make sure you get a low-sugar option. You can also add a spritz of lemon, lime, or other fruit to your water for some extra flavor.

My #1 tip for how to drink more water is the Camelbak Groove. Filters as you sip, so you can hydrate on-the-go. I swear by this thing and I am not even sure why. 32oz of water disappears in seconds.

Sailor Style: Boat Shoes

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Set sail this summer with a new pair of boat shoes. A modern-day take on an American classic have been given a fresh dose of color and style. Whether you like pastel, neon, or neutral shades, there’s bound to be a boat shoe out there for you.

Discover your inner prepster by pairing these shoes with colored denim and crisp button-down or polo. Or play it casual with a simple pair of cut-offs and tee. These comfortable slip-ons must be worn sans socks, making them perfect for summer style.

The boat shoe is a timeless classic made for fun-in-the-sun. Here are a few fresh styles:

Sperry Top-Siders ~ Women’s Cloud Logo Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe: $75.00

Steve Madden ~ Yachtt: $49.95

Croft & Barrow ~ Boat Shoes: $35.99

Splendid ~ Mandarin: $79.00

Bed Stu ~ Auntie Bettie Tan Greenland Shoes: $75.00

Roxy ~ Ahoy Shoes: $39.00

Perennial Swimwear: J.Crew String Bikini

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The string bikini is a staple of summer. Comfortable and versatile this style of swimwear will never stray from trend or fashion.

I purchase at least one J.Crew String Bikini per season. They are simple, honest and perennial. A straight-forward style that fit the same each year and continue to be available in trendy colors and patterns.

A string bikini combined with a mix-and-match approach to swimwear is a great combination to find your perfect suit. First, decide what you want to hide or flaunt and go from there. For instance, if you are trying to minimize a large bottom, purchase a dark color. If you want to draw attention to a flat chest, tie the string bikini in front rather than the back. If you want to elongate the legs or torso, adjust the ties on the sides accordingly.

There are so many ways to make this bikini work for you, just bite the bullet and try-it-on. Ugh… “The Dreaded First Swimsuit Try-On of the Year”. The best advice I have been given: Before you step foot into a dressing room with bikini-in-hand, make sure you are tan. Fake-it with a quick spray tan or at-home application. Trust me! It will make the experience less terrifying.

5 under $50: High-Low Skirts

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A new style trend for skirts this spring/summer features a unique high-low hemline. The high-low hemline, short in the front/long in the back, is like wearing a mini-skirt and a maxi-skirt all-in-one. This playful look shows the perfect amount of skin without being too daring.

This style is uber flattering on any body shape. The asymmetric hemline creates a lengthening effect that instantly makes legs appear longer. Showing-off a little leg can be an effective way to elongate the entire frame.

Styling these skirts is simple. Depending on the color or print of the skirt, it is always safe to coordinate with pared-down basics. Try a simple tee, tank or my favorite – a slouchy grey sweatshirt top. The high-low hemline provides the perfect showcase for this season’s quintessential shoe. Show off your favorite flats, sandals, wedges or booties.

The high-low skirt is available everywhere in a multitude of colors, prints and textures. Here are 5 under $50:

Zara ~ Skirt with Asymmetric Hem: $39.90

Asos ~ River Island Heart Hi-Lo Midi Skirt: $38.27

Express ~ Hi-Lo Hem Maxi Skirt: $49.90

Forever 21 ~ Sheer Floral High-Low Skirt: $19.80

Nordstrom ~ Rubbish – Asymmetrical Circle Hem Maxi Skirt: $42.00

The Boyfriend Jean

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The term “boyfriend jean” refers to the over-sized, slouchy nature of men’s jeans. The relaxed style offers the benefits of comfort and simplicity. Boyfriend jeans are no longer just for casual wear, they are becoming a fashionable choice for everything from a night out to a red carpet look.

To make this look work for you, choose your style. There are several different options available: distressed, slouchy, straight-leg, light-wash, dark wash, low-rise, high rise. Choosing your ideal pair should be based purely on your own personal style and what you feel comfortable wearing.

Stay casual. For an easy, hassle-free outfit, style your boyfriend jeans with a pair of brightly-colored sandals, flip-flops or even high-top converse or sneaker. Keep the top simple with a T-shirt or tank top and accessorize to your heart’s content. Then transition seamlessly from day to night with a simple change of shoe. Wedge styles are a popular choice and allow for the leg to appear elongated.

For a night out. Adjust the cuff of your boyfriend jeans according to the height of the shoe. Pair with a great bootie or sleek stiletto and make sure a little ankle is peeking out – this will break-up the look. Choose a flowing top or blouse and finish-off with a fitted blazer.

The boyfriend jean will always be a staple in my closet, even if the trend dies. They are comfortable, versatile and just plain easy. Here are 5 of my current favorites:

J.Crew ~ Vintage Straight Jean in Old Faithful Wash: $168.00

Goldsign ~ Hisjean Cropped Boyfriend Jeans: $238.00

Current/Elliott ~ The Boyfriend Jeans: $206.00

JBrand ~ Aiden Slouchy Boyfriend Jeans: $218.00

AG ~ Ex Boyfriend Jeans: $215.00

Festival Fashion Series: Day 2

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Glow-T’s Festival Fashion Series continues with dresses. Simple and comfortable, dresses make packing a cinch. Grab solid colors, florals or patterns and accessorize accordingly. Long or short, dresses can be paired with boots, sandals or wedges. Form-fitting or flowing, a dress is an effortless option for festival fashion.

The cross-body bag is another necessity for festival style. Hands-free, these bags can be securely worn without worry. Perfect for dancing or exploring the grounds, a cross-body bag is something you don’t want to leave home without.

Option 1:

Pamela Love – Love Pyramid Pendant, Isabel Marant – Dicker Boots, Isabel Marant – Vick Printed Silk-Georgette Dress, Color  in Optics – Marilyn Retro Sunglasses

Option 2:

Alexander Wang – Diego Bucket Bag, Splendid – Tomboy Ribbed Cotton Dress, Missoni – Zigzag Crochet-Knit Headband, J.Crew – Distressed Belt, TKEES – Thong Sandals

Shop Your Closet: One Style/Four Outfits

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Style simple pieces of clothing with a belt and increase the versatility in your closet. From rompers to maxi dresses, a belt can effortlessly add interest to any outfit. Not only is cinching the waist with a belt figure-friendly, it can provide a more casual style to dressy pieces. Thus, enabling you to get more wear out of items in your closet.

Look for simple, subdued belts. A lot of bells and whistles will pull all the focus to `it. I love buttery-soft brown leather belts, distressed and treated to look as though you have had it for years. (Favorite Brands: J.Crew/Lucky Brand/Free People/H&M) 

Next time you are in a pinch… cinch!

Revolve Clothing ~ Blue Life: All Day/All Nighter Jumper: $132.00

Net-A-Porter ~ Michael Kors: Belted Crepe-Jersey Jumpsuit: $140.00

Shopbop ~ Only Hearts: Long Gown: $64.00

Shopbop ~ Only Hearts: Keyhole Romper: $106.00

Accessory Favorite: Delicate Gold Rings

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Favorite accessory find are delicate gold rings. Thin and dainty, these rings can be worn alone or stacked. Simple and effortless, these rings will last a lifetime.

Kate Spade ~ Salilors Knot Ring: $48.00

Barneys New York ~ Jennifer Meyer Turquoise Ring: $150.00

Shopbop ~ Jacquie Aiche Alphabet Letter Initial Waif Ring: $77.00

La Garconne ~ Saskia Diez – Gold Wire Ring: $167.00

Lori’s Shoes ~ Hammered Bar Ring by IJA Designs: $36.00

 

Glow-T Gift Guide: Beauty Stocking Stuffers

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Glow-T’s Gift Guide continues with beauty stocking stuffers. Fill your holiday with tradition and your stockings with tiny treasures. These simple, small, easy-to-pick-up beauty necessities are thoughtful and useful. From a washable makeup bag that will last forever to the “can’t live without” makeup sponge, here are a few stocking stuffer ideas.

Emi-Jay ~ Hair Ties (Pack of 3): $5.99

BeautyBlender ~ BeautyBlender Single: $19.95

Neiman Marcus ~ Prada Trapezoid Cosmetic Case: $170.00

Sephora ~ Sephora Collection Vanity Brush Set: $48.00

Sephora ~ Urban Decay The Revolution High-Performance Lash Curler: $20.00

Glow-T Gift Guide: Jewelry

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Glow-T’s Gift Guide continues with jewelry. Decorate family and friends with small treasures that last a lifetime. A gifted piece of jewelry should be simple and timeless. From delicate stackable rings to personalized necklaces that supply words of wisdom, here are a few gift ideas for the gem in your life.

J.Crew ~ Crystal Brulée Necklace: $68.00

Shopbop.com ~ Gorjana Jude Bracelet: $62.00

Neiman Marcus ~ Dogeared Gifting Necklaces: $58.00

Barneys New York ~ Jennifer Meyer Thin Stackable Rings: $150.00

Jules Smith ~ Americana Classic Earrings: $60.00

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.