Try and remember 5 years ago. Those people in your life and are still in your life are more than friends, they are family.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Lavender
I was looking online for a lavender perfume today and came across this, "Lavender is most commonly used for anxiety, depression, mental exhaustion, insomnia, scrapes and wounds, digestive problems, headaches, skin problems and women's health problems. In addition to this, lavender can be used to treat exhaustion, heat exposure, fevers, aches and pains, over-exertion, jet lag, rashes, sprains, sunburn, sunstroke, bruises and burns. It can also be used as a disinfectant and insect repellant. Lavender is an antiseptic, natural antibiotic, sedative, detoxifier." GNC can hook you up.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
High Buns
I think some people are afraid of the high bun. If you're wearing your hair the exact same way every day, it's time to change things up. With all the different variations of the bun (loose, messy, tight, super high, not so high, low), you'll know what works best for you.
Today I was running a bit late, so I went with the high messy bun. To get that messy look with flyaways, TEASE. TEASE. TEASE. And then just throw it up in a bun with a rubber band. Pull on the top sections of your hair to loosen it up and you've created the "Messy, I don't care" look. Funny...you actually do care but it honestly only takes a minute of your time.
I also like to wear my hair in a cleaner version of the high bun. For me, teasing is always involved. Depending on the texture and thickness of your hair, it may not be necessary. If you do tease, smooth out the top layer, throw up in a bun but make sure it's a little tighter than the messy bun. I'm a big fan of a full bun and because I don't have the thickest hair, I have a little trick. I take a little section at the top of the bun and use a bobbypin to pin it to the side of my head closest to the rubberband. I repeat it throughout the entire bun and walah, you have a big bun!
Enough dissecting of the bun! Now go experiment.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Choices
You learn what kind of shoes last and make you feel your best.
And you learn what shoes just aren't worth it.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Reality Bites
Why aren't movies like this anymore? I can't remember the last funny movie that isn't ridiculously stupid but is something you can downright relate to. I watched Reality Bites today and fell in love with it again. Basically, the movie is about these struggling recently graduated people trying to find jobs and dealing with the "real world". The movie doesn't portray this but I think we all don't figure it out right away. Years could pass and we still feel this inevitable feeling of still trying to deal with the "real world". Yeah, some move right along and I won't begin to dissect their life to make you feel better. Some people have higher expectations. Some people settle. I'm not going to even pretend I know the answers but I am definitely one that searches. I have this need to understand EVERYTHING. If you ever get access to my laptop, please do not look at my google searches. Anyhow, by now you know I'm a deep person. And although these people tend to get hurt more often and are highly emotional, I wouldn't change it for the world. Because I have the ability to experience true emotions and feelings. I'd rather be confused the rest of my life than never have the chance to "feel". This blog post, I have to admit is very random. But that's what blogging is about - so I just wanted to share some randomness. And also some great quotes from my favorite characters in the movie...
Lelaina: I'd like to somehow make a difference in people's lives.
Troy: And I...I would like to buy them all a Coke.
Lelaina: And you wonder why we never got involved?
Troy: You can't navigate me. I may do mean things, and I may hurt you, and I may run away with your permission, and you may hate me forever, and I know that scares the living shit outta you 'cause you know I'm the only real thing you got.
Troy: There's no point to any of this. It's all just a...a random lottery of meaningless tragedy and a series of near escapes. So I take pleasure in all the details. You know...a Quarter-Pounder with cheese, those are good, the sky about ten minutes before it starts to rain, the moment where your laughter become a crackle...and I, I sit back and I smoke my Camel Straights and I ride my own melt.
Lelaina: All right, fine. You wanna be in a band? Fine. Go ahead. Play every night. Play three times a night! Don't just dick around the same coffee house for five years. Don't dick around her or with me. I mean, try at something for once in your life. Do something about it, but you know what? You better do it now, and you better do it fast, because the world doesn't owe you any favors.
Lelaina: I just don't understand why things just can't go back to normal at the end of the half hour like on the Brady Bunch or something.
Troy: Well, 'case Mr. Brady died of AIDS. Things don't turn out like that.
Vickey: Laney, sex is the quickest way to ruin a friendship.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Kickboxing
Bathing suit season is right around the corner! Seriously, don't freak out. I got what you need. I started taking kickboxing and I started seeing results in weeks (of course, with a healthier diet). You can burn mega calories - around 800 calories per hour. Not only will you see results, you'll feel more energy, reduce stress, improve coordination, and boost your confidence levels. Just try it! You won't be disappointed. Just remember to stay away from teas and coffee - they dehydrate you. Water!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Modern + Vintage
Looking at an empty white room can be quite overwhelming. Which look do you want to go for? Modern or Vintage? I LOVE the idea of both. But which one to choose? Modern is simple, clean, fresh. But the "homey" feeling is missing. And not to mention where do you put all your STUFF? I would have a tough time with this one. Vintage definitely captures the homey feeling, along with the lovingly restored look. But if choosing to go vintage, you lose that minimalistic appeal.
I think this is the right balance. Modern + Vintage. Innovative + Traditional. Buy classic, modern pieces and fill the room with vintage decor!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Modern Auntie Mame
Alice + Olivia Designer Stacey Bendet revealed her new Fall 2011 Collection on Tuesday, February 15th, at the Plaza. Stacey Bendet created yet another outstanding collection with her modern interpretation of Auntie Mame. Look at the photo above - it's right on but with an eccentric twist.
The night wasn't complete without a strip performance by one of the models and a song played by Caitlin Moe!
Guests included Brittany Snow, Vanessa Hudgens, Kelly Rutherford, Tinsley Mortimer, Johnny Weir and newest Gossip Girl addition Tika Sumpter. Guests enjoyed cupcakes and cocktails while mingling. The Belvedere Pomegranate Martini and The Gimlet tasted UNREAL. Great show.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Valentine's Day: Spirit of Giving
I know a lot of people think Valentine's Day is a holiday meant for "couples" but I am definitely not one of them. I am not one of them who feels the need to go out with single girlfriends and celebrate our "freedom" because we all know the real motives behind this. Today, I sent a mass email (a meaningful mass email) out to the people that matter in my life. Hallmark really needs to step up there game. Valentine's Day is about love and not just the romantic love but the love we have for everyone in our life. It's about the spirit of giving. The time I share with my friends, my sister, my family, my co-workers...what really makes my life special. So of course, we all know that I am single ha-ha. BUT, I say this with love, I am happy. And I want everyone out there in my life to know that they make my life happy. Of course, a boyfriend adds that "special" kind of love. But overall, everyone just wants to be loved and I truly know I am. All these talk shows that try to console single people and say "the 15th is right around the corner"? Well, I'm happy, on the 14th. And I have all of you to thank for that. Happy Valentine's Day!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Eleanor Lambert
If you DIDN'T know...fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert established New York's first fashion week (at the time, known as "Press Week") during World War II. She put American designers in the spotlight and, as a result, fashion magazines started to feature American designs and fashions, having previously been dominated by French designers.
Thanks Eleanor. We ♥ you & NY!
Happy Friday!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
BOYFRIEND Discovery
I had the privilege of interviewing the lovely Kate Walsh about her new fragrance, BOYFRIEND. With Valentine's Day right around the corner, I could not NOT share this! The world is brain washed to think on this day, we must have "someone" to celebrate the love between one another. Which is why I love the whole idea behind the inspiration of the scent. Kate came up with the idea about 6 years ago when her and her boyfriend broke up and she was in New York shopping and missed him...missed his fragrance that is. We've all been there. Our mind goes back there when certain things set it off. When I asked her what she thinks the scent will give a woman or make her feel like, she simply said, "Ok, you know what? I've got my boyfriend in a box. It's totally cool." She wanted that feeling, whether a guy is in the picture or not. When you get the train case it has a little note that says, "WEAR THE RED DRESS." On her webimmercial (which you have to check out HERE), she wanted to feel the spirit of "WEAR THE RED DRESS." It's about the spirit of feeling good and feeling sexy for yourself - whether there's a guy in the picture or not.
Celebrity fragrances are popular because celebrities are spectacular at promoting their product but who's behind the scenes? Kate is all over this fragrance - the creation, designing the package and really coming up with the marketing campaign. Cheers to Kate - a celebrity who is doing it the right way.
I've been watching her videos all day - not only are they sexy, they are fun and playful too! You can view them HERE.
Not only have I discovered a beautiful fragrance, I've discovered another beautiful person. Keep doin' what you're doin' Kate;)
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Yes, There Will Be a J. Crew Blog
J. Crew's in-store display is always an excellent resource for learning about style and new looks, along with "Jenna's Picks" which expresses her mix-and-match sensibility. Many brands are starting their own blogs to not only showcase their looks but to talk about their looks as well. Jenna Lyon's, J. Crew's president and executive creative director broke the news at Lucky Magazine's first Fashion and Beauty Blog Conference on Feb. 8. At the conference, she said so innocently, "do you start an RSS feed or do you follow an RSS feed?" She has turned the brand into a rare creation but it's a good thing she has recruited people to help start up this blog;) I can't wait till it launches so I can get inside the brain of J. Crew!
Monday, February 7, 2011
It's Possible: NYC Apartment on a Budget!
My dearest friend Katie Kokenge allowed me to share her gorgeous apartment in the West Village AKA my second home...literally. Here are a few tips from one of the most stylish girls I know. Enjoy!
How did you find your apartment?
I was on a budget so it took lots and lots of research on websites like craigslist and streeteasy. I tried a couple brokers at the beginning, but in my experience they don’t usually listen to what you want and will end up wasting your time by showing you nightmare apartments (i.e. toilet in one corner of the apartment and shower in the other). I ultimately found my apartment on craigslist and signed for it four hours later. That’s definitely my number one advice: if you find something you love, meets your “needs” checklist (not your “wants”) and is within your budget…don’t think, just sign.
Were you set on West Village?
Yes, there’s something about the West Village. The people, the restaurants, the overall vibe. It’s where I’ve finally felt comfortable calling New York home.
When deciding on the "look" for your apartment, what were your inspirations?
I find inspiration all over the place, but my absolute favorite is through blogs. I have about 25-30 links (just added yours!) saved on my computer and try to check them consistently throughout the week.
Were you going for a specific color theme?
No, but my apartment screams “girl” – lots of color, women featured in a lot of my art – I think somewhere in my subconscious I was trying to get it all out before I end up living with a man. After all, I don’t think he’ll be on board with a hot pink bathroom.
Where did you get your furniture?
Oh wow, pretty much everywhere. Anthropologie, West Elm, Ikea, Crate and Barrel, Home Depot, a boutique that my mom used to work at in Cincinnati. The dresser I have in my bedroom was $150 from Home Depot. I went to Anthroplogie and bought some really fun handles to spruce it up!
What is your favorite piece and why? I know mine.
That’s such a hard question because I have a personal connection to so many! If I had to go with one though, it would be the jewelry chest my mom gave me. It’s not only beautiful but so functional. I keep everything from jewelry, to personal documents to pens and paper in there.
You have a great eye for detail! Where did you get the rest of your decor and accent pieces?
Anthropologie and T.J.Maxx are my favorite for accessories. I absolutely love, love, love T.J. Maxx. It takes some effort looking through their home section, but totally worth it when you find that one piece you love.
Did you paint your walls yourself? How did you decide on the color?
Yes! I would love this opportunity to give a huge shout out to Meghann Brady and Kelley Brandstetter for all their help. If you can grab a girlfriend or two it can actually be tons of fun. However, I will most likely hire someone to do it next time because it is a LOT of work!
Your china is beautiful. Where did you get it?
My mom and I picked out my China when I was still in high school. It’s Queen Victoria by Herend. I know most people wait until they get married, but it’s been such a fun thing for my mom and I to share in over the years. I look forward to every holiday when I get a new piece.
You mentioned you were't done decorating. What could you possibly add? It's perfect.
You’re too sweet, but I have so much I still want to do! The two things I desperately need…a mirror above my couch and window treatments. I also want to add double French doors to my closet. Outside of that I’m always looking for fun, new accessories. My main room could definitely use some more.
Are you moving soon?
No immediate plans, but you will definitely be the first to know:)
Saturday, February 5, 2011
What To Do Next?
The Last Kiss. Not a new movie but a movie I watch here and there (or more than the average person). I'm so drawn to reality and all the consequences that come with it. A life without struggles? I mean can you imagine? How boring and so easy. I do believe during the struggles, we become a different person - a person who is more confident, a person who understands what they want and what they don't want.
In the movie, life seems to start getting complicated or should I say...confusing. Every decision seems so final.
-Jenna (great name) is living with Michael and pregnant. Untraditionally, they want to wait to get married.
-Chris and Lisa have a child together including a broken marriage.
-Izzy can't get over the love of his life.
-Kenny works at a bar and doesn't seem to want to grow up.
-Jenna's mother is searching for the passion in her marriage.
Michael seems happy but is second guessing his future. Typical. "I've been thinking about my life lately, and everything feels pretty planned out. There's no more surprises." When you look back at your life, is it the surprises that make you happy? Who told us that we belong with someone? Maybe some people are happier alone? Then why get married? Why follow society if it's not something you want? There is a choice of living life with "surprises"...go do it. Truth is, everyone wants to share their life with someone. Michael just didn't realize it. When he met Kim - it was something new, exciting...a "surprise"...a mistake. Jenna finds out and this is the part of the movie when I fall in love her character. It feels so real. She feels so much pain.
Jenna's father: Stop talking about love. Every asshole in the world says he loves somebody. It means nothing. it still doesn't mean anything. What you feel only matters to you. It's what you do to the people you say you love, that's what matters. It's the only thing that counts.
Do whatever it takes.
Michael: It's that simple?
Jenna's father: Yes, you can't fail if you don't give up.
...and he never gave up.
It's a movie about choices and honesty.
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