April 30, 2010

WTF Friday...Spandex Catsuits Do Not Look Good on Anyone

Hey there! Happy Friday to all!

Today's WTF Friday only has one offender...Ms. Toni Braxton.

Ms. Braxton is a lovely woman and she can sing...I mean she can really sing. Jealz.

But that is no excuse for this...

Photo via Pacific Coast News

Whaaaa?! Toni wasn't leaving a dance rehearsal either, folks, she was leaving Mr. Chow, an upscale restaurant in LA. A bodysuit/leotard is sometimes worn for DANCE purposes. You know - vis-a-vis the Joffrey Ballet dancers. Or Jennifer Beals in Flashdance.

But no, Toni wanted to sport a black spandex catsuit with sheer lace panels to Mr. Chow. No no no, mama. And just because you threw on a cute army jacket doesn't make it ok.

That's all I got today, folks! I'm sure many of you are positively reeling over the ensemble above.

Happy weekend to you all!

April 29, 2010

Cubicle to Cocktails: Mini Pants, Ankle Pants, Cropped Pants Schmants

Yay for Thursday! Who's super happy we're almost finished with the work week?!

Today's edition of Cubicle to Cocktails features the lovely little mini pants, or cropped pants, or whatever you want to name them. I've featured these little pantalones before, but I just heart them so much I needed to showcase another look with them.

I think this cut is appropriate for most business casual situations - I mean come on, you're showing ANKLE. Gasp, wince, sob. Fit is utmost important with these pants - no one wants to be able to count the change in your back pocket....you know what I mean? Of course you do!

So, without further adieu, here is today's Cubicle to Cocktails! I love pairing a flowy, printed tunic with these pants and amping up the shoes and accessories for nighttime.



What do you think of today's CTC edition?

April 28, 2010

Cheap Thrills: Weather or Not, Here I Come

Happy Wednesday to all! Today's edition of Cheap Thrills is aptly titled, Weather or Not, Here I Come....why you ask? Well, couple reasons...

1) The weather is rarely predicatable, as I am rarely predictable
2) I'm hoping to actually make it to Atlanta this weekend to see my very good friend Julia...my last trip was canceled due to inclement weather. I'm trying to make nice with Mother Nature so she let's me visit my good friend and explore Hotlanta.

And since the weather is free...unless you're on vacation - then you essentially paid to experience that climate - here are my cheap "weather thrills"...
  • 80 degrees and sunny-ish...great weather for the beach - not too hot and it's not a bad thing if an occasional fluffy cloud passes by
  • 75 degrees and SUNNY...the perfect mix in my opinion for galloping around town
  • 62 degrees and partly cloudy...perfect running weather
  • 50 degrees and partly cloudy...I love boots. What can I say.
  • 32 degrees and sunny...but only for one day...I like a teeny bit of fluffy snow
I hope ya'll enjoy my Cheap Thrills!

April 27, 2010

My IRL Take on Zac Posen for Target...

Hey everyone! Because I was bouncing around Chicago on Sunday, I wasn't able to make it to my local Charlotte Target for the unveiling of Zac Posen's Target line. However, I did have a chance to try on a few of his duds on Monday evening...here are some IRL photos and my thoughts...

Normally I would link up my photos to the dresses online, but unfortunately, 90% of them are sold out right now. Your best bet is to trek to your local Tar-jay or check eBay if it's all sold out online...

Tiger Print Sailor Dress, $39.99 (Size Small shown)





My review: I think this dress is adorable. Is the print a bit much - sure - but I like it anyway. I know some ladies take issue with the sleeves, but I think they are kind of kitchy cute. As for the material, it's not the nicest ever, but it's flowy and lays nicely. The fit is great with one exception - the chest. It's hard to tell from my photos, but my sisters were squished down in the size small. The back is also really adorable - there is a small opening and a tie behind the neck.

Snap Tape Dress, $69.99 (Size small shown)




My review: This dress is fab - I really wished it worked for me. The fabric is nice and the cut of the dress is just lovely...however, this runs supa tight across the chest (even more so than the Sailor dress). I could not zip up the dress past the chest - too bad...because it worked really well everywhere else.

Snap Tape Top, $49.99 (Size small shown)


My review: Cute top - too expensive for Target though, in my opinion. The snaps are nice and you can therefore adjust the look and the fit. The color is nice and bright but the fabric is just meh.

Tiger Print Tank, $16.99 (Size small shown)


My Review: Cute little cotton tank, but this ran ginormous on me. Very large in the armholes and just a wee bit "droopy" all over.

Tuxedo Jacket, $49.99 (Size small shown)




My Review: Such a hot little jacket. The design and fit are just fab. The small fit pretty true to size and if I had any need for another little jacket, I would have scooped this up in a hot second. It's an interesting piece and definitely one of my faves from the collection.

So, friends...those are my few reviews from the Zac Posen Tar-jay collection! Did you scoop up any pieces?

April 26, 2010

Product Review: Bumble & Bumble Styling Lotion, B

Hi everyone! Happy Monday...I hope you all had a great weekend!

Up for review today is a highly revered product - Bumble & Bumble's Styling Lotion. This is one of those products that you read about in all the fashion mags as God's gift to hair styling. So, when I chopped my hair in early February my *awesome* stylist used this little magical product on my new 'do.

Here are the product deets straight from B&B's website:

A versatile styling option for control, body building or sleekness, plus a nourishing moisturizer which leaves the hair soft with natural movement.
Who: Anyone; a good choice for fine, frequently styled, fragile or chemically treated hair.

When: Anytime; after Prep or Tonic Lotion and before heated tools.

How: Spray on damp hair evenly by sections; work through and style.

Price: 2 oz. for $8 or 8 oz. for $23

And onto my review...

The Good: The product makes my hair "perform" better. I know that sounds incredibly weird, but when I use it I typically have more volume, more moisture and curls or waves hang in there longer. I dig the scent, too!

The Bad: While I don't use a *ton* of product, $23 for 8 oz. is a bit steep. This is especially true for sprays as we all tend to spray a bit more than we actually need - it's just more difficult to control. And while this product does, indeed, make my hair more manageable it's not such a significant change that the product is an absolute must have.

The Verdict: B, for me. I have pretty good hair in general - thanks, Mom & Dad - so I don't really need to tame it to the nth degree. The styling lotion definitely does what it promises, but the impact on my hair wasn't significant. And...I just wish it was a bit more affordable.

Coley's Tips: If you live (or visit) an outlet with a Cosmetics Company Store, they typically care Bumble & Bumble on the cheap. I bought my 8 oz. bottle for $17...hey, $5 in savings is a large latte. In terms of styling tips, I have used this product before blow drying or curling - that's when I think it performs best. Also, I recommend spraying into your hands and roughing up your roots with the product. This way, you can control the amount you use (reducing your spray waste) and the product gets to the most important place on your head, first.

That's all I have for today! Anyone out there use B&B's Styling Lotion?

April 23, 2010

WTF Friday: Belly Baring Wackness & Pocahontas Plays Dress Up

Happy Friday to all! Today's edition of WTF Friday features two really gorgeous, talented women - in completely odd ensembles. Let's get it started...

First up is Beyonce - who typically looks supa fierce. But not so much here...


Um...B, I love your...hair....but I really don't get anything else that you're sportin' here. Can someone tell me why the 'eff belly baring shirts are coming back into style? B looks like she tore off a mini curtain and hung it on her shoulders. Not cute.

And then there's the adorable Katy Perry who is really adventurous with her style...and she can usually pull it off...until she dons a Pocahontas look...


I sat here and thought, ok, maybe alone these pieces could work. And the flat gladiators are kinda fun, but WTF is with the dress and the print AND the oblong fringe? It's such an awkward cut and does nada for her great figure. No, Katy...no more Native American costumes, 'kay? Oh - and what's with the weird pose - rain dance?

I hope you all have a great weekend! Please share any WTF links in the comments below!

 

April 22, 2010

Cubicle to Cocktails: Cute Little Dress Edition

Happy Thursday to all! Today's edition of CTC features an adorable black and white stretch cotton dress with really cool cutouts.

For the cubicle look, toss on a white "girlfriend" blazer and adorable leetle wedges. (Target!) To amp it up for cocktail hour slip on some hot black heels and a blue croc belt. I'm also really loving the diamond studs - gorgeous!

So, ladies - what do you think? The cocktail look could easily transition to a wedding ensemble, too!

April 21, 2010

Cheap Thrills: Chicago Edition

Happy Wednesday, all! Today's edition of Cheap Thrills is Chicago related...as I grew up in Chicago and will soon be in Chi-town celebrating my brother's wedding! Yaaaay!

In the spirit of Chicago, I wanted to share my favorite Windy City Cheap Thrills...and here they are:
  • Garrett's Popcorn: Most.amazing.caramel corn.ever. Lines are out the door at all times...both locals and tourists completely lurve this place. (The cheese popcorn is also incredible...ok, it's all fabulous)
  • Cubs Bleacher Seats: Ok, these aren't as cheap as they were years ago, but still....if you ever get a chance to head out to a Cubbies game, do so. The bleachers are really fun, albeit quite toasty!
  • Hot dogs (at said Cubs game or Portillo's): Vienna beef. 'Nuff said.
  • AKIRA: Again, not a super cheap shopping hub, but I found the most adorable tops, dresses and accessories at affordable prices. They have a great online site, too!
And here is today's Polyvore set of cheap thrills...that little polka dot silk top is so stinkin' cute. Enjoy!

April 18, 2010

Product Review: Benefit High Beam, B+

Hi all! Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Up for review today is a very fun Benefit product...Benefit High Beam...



You can find this little wonder at Sephora (among other places): Benefit High Beam, .45 ounces for $24

Details from Sephora's website...

What it is: A luminescent complexion enhancer.

What it does: Benefit High Beam is an ethereal pink liquid highlighter that creates a radiantly dewy complexion. For an angelic sheen, this pink shimmering lotion adds a soft, natural afterglow.

What else you need to know: It's a "supermodel in a bottle…" and perfectly alluring on all skin tones.

And here's my review...

The Good: It is indeed a luminzer. The soft pink shade is really flattering on a variety of skin tones and the product makes me look more refreshed, dewey and awake.

The Bad: It's expensive! While a little product goes a looong way, $24 is still pricey - any way you slice it.

The Verdict: B+ for me. This is one of those products that just makes me look "prettier". This product is not a need (to me, mascara is a NEED) - High Beam is a want. A big want at that though!

**My tips to get the most out of this product**

This product can be a little confusing to some - as there is no "right" way to use it. And I LOVE versatile products - I get to play with them until I find my favorite way to use them. And here is the way that I like to use Benefit's High Beam...
  • I first apply my moisturizer and tinted moisturizer
  • I then dot the product under my eyes and up my cheekbones (three or four dots per side)
  • I lightly pat & press the product in with my ring finger (which is the most gentle fingerpad to use - no joke!)
  • Then I apply my blush and powder, etc.
When I apply it this way, I get a really nice subtle sheen to my cheekbones and a lightness under my eyes. It's a very polished, awake look.

So, that's my Benefit review!

Has anyone used High Beam? Thoughts? Tips/tricks? 

April 16, 2010

WTF Friday: Some "Interesting" Ensembles & Eye-Stonishing Eyebrows

Happy Friday to all! Glorious Friday - hooray! Let's not waste any time...here are my picks for WTF Friday...

Jessica Simpson...oh girlfriend you really are lovely. Jess kinda has a bi-polar fashion thing going. She either looks glamorous & flawless or, on the flipside, she looks a bit a mess, like the lazy farmer's daughter. On a different note, her legs are super toned - impressive!

Jess - why the eff do we need to pair a baggy, saggy denim shirt with a floral minidress? I like chambray shirts. I like floral dresses. I do not like them paired sloppily together. Ditch, it, Jess!

And then we have Uma Thurman - another stunning woman with a super poor choice of ensemble.

I've always thought Uma Thurman is just so naturally gorgeous. She has a rockin' figure and a lovely face...so WTF happened? Is she starring in a revival of the movie Hocus Pocus? This ill-fitting, sad frock needs to go away. Now. And, Uma, girlfriend, it's SPRING! Bag that black mess.

And then there's Mary Kate Olsen. Listen - I think the Olsen twins are adorable and extremely sharp businesswomen - they have built an insanely profitable and lovely fashion empire. Kudos.

And yes, sometimes they dress a little kooky - but whatever, that's high fashion. HOWEVER, what the eff is with MK's eyebrows???

Image via: Wenn.com

I'm a fan of a full brow (I mean take a look at mine, I'm occasionally one absent pluck session away from Frida), but this is OOC. Mary Kate - please get your teeny little butt over to a salon and get those mini-squirrels tamed. Can we at least run a brow comb through them?!

So friends - what do we think of today's WTF Friday nominees? All beautiful women who look a little wonky this week. Not the worst offenders by any stretch of the imagination, but all three are definitely lagging behind their potential.

Have an amazing weekend everyone!

April 15, 2010

Cubicle to Cocktails: The Strong Shoulder Edition

Happy Thursday to all! You can tell I've been a little busy on the work & home front, as today's edition of Cubicle to Cocktails looks a little bare, doesn't it? Indeed - I forgot to throw in jewelry, so please forgive me and use those beautiful, creative minds of yours and imagine the most amazing jewelry attached to these looks.

The strong shoulder jacket is super duper versatile - and I think the right tone and fit can easily transition from your cubicle to cocktails. I simply paired the little beauty below with some adorable ankle length grey pantalones and lovely printed teal silk top and voila - cubicle chic. For cocktails you'll see a romper so cute I just want to hug it. And buy it. But I can't right now (re: self-imposed shopping bag).

So - what do we think of today's look?

Do you or will you rock out some strong shoulders at work and at play?


April 14, 2010

Cheap Thrills - A Hodgepodge of Sorts

Hi all! Today's edition of Cheap Thrills is a true hodgepodge of sorts.

A few of my random Cheap Thrills...
  • Snickers Ice Cream Bars and Snickers Ice Cream at Baskin Robbins: I really don't need to 'splain this one, do I?
  • Criminal Minds (the TV show): If you haven't watched this show and you like forensics and/or crime drama and/or shows similar to CSI, this is a winner for you. Great character development and thought-provoking!
  • Chocolate Almonds from Costco: So good that I would pay a yearly membership to access these alone.
  • Sleeping In: This hasn't happened in a long time...but once in a while I really enjoy sleeping past 9 a.m. It's a throwback to my college days...
The set below is definitely not "themed" and the pieces certainly don't mesh well with each other, but individually the pieces are great scores - especially considering each costs less than $25. I'm diggin' that rolled up plaid from ON...how adorable would that be with some denim shorts and wedges?!

Speaking of great scores - Amrita Singh (whose necklace is featured in the set below) is hosting a 50% off necklace sale right here through Thursday at midnight. There are some fabulous deals for those of you NOT suffering through a self-imposed shopping ban ;)



April 13, 2010

Tuesday's Two Tricky Trends

Holy alliteration, Batman!

But really, I'm starting to think about some new trends that are making their way into the spring & summer wardrobe collections. Some of these trends are tricky - some are downright fug and some I lurve. So, I thought I would post a few pretty pics & picks and get your opinion on Tuesday's Tricky Trends.

The first trend up to bat is Skinny Cargos. This truly is a tricky trend, and one that may go in and out within a season or two. BUT...I have seen a few ladies absolutely rock the skinny cargo trend and I think it's worth considering...here's my take:

1) If you carry extra weight in your thighs, this probably isn't the trend for you. The additional cargo pockets are typically placed on the thigh area, adding a bit of bulk to that area.

2) These pants seem to be pretty versatile - you could sport them with flats and a blousy tee or stacked wedges and a tank. So, while they seem to be on the pricey side, it looks like they can be styled numerous ways, making the cost per wear plummet.

3) Just like any other pair of pants that you purchase - make sure these fit all across the leg. These aren't meant to be loosey goosey relaxed cargos (that's another trend completely). These should fit all down the leg, but should not be painted on. That's never attractive. When in doubt - tailor in.


The second is trend for discussion today is White Jeans. Now, I don't really consider white jeans (or pants) a "trend" per se. I've personally liked white pants for some time, but the past two or three summer white jeans have been popping out in every cut and finish imaginable. So here is my take on the white jean trend...

1) If you're going to wear them, they better be super-white. These babies will look amazing with just about any color of the rainbow and look really fresh for spring & summer. (Although I did pair my white skinnies with cognac boots in the fall, too!)

2) Fit is absolutely vital for white denim (I'd say even more so than traditional blue jeans). Make sure you pick a pair that accentuates your legs. When in doubt, a straight-leg usually works on most people.

3) Do not, I repeat, DO NOT, choose a pair that is even the least bit translucent. If need be, spend the extra $20 or $30 to obtain a good pair of white jeans!


So ladies, what do we think of these two trends?

Any styling tips or tricks to add?

April 12, 2010

Product Review: Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque, A-

Hello lovely readers! Hope each and every one of you had a great weekend!

Up for review today is the famous, super-cheap Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque. I have quite literally used this little drugstore wonder since I was 14 years old or so. If you're not familiar with this skin saver, it's the traditional "green" masque that many of your mothers, sisters, and even movie characters applied to their faces quite often! This little baby is a steal, only $3.99 for 8 oz. of green goodness.


Here are the product deets from drugstore.com...

  • Mint Julep Masque is the original natural home treatment developed by a dermatologist that helps dry up acne pimples, rinse away blackheads and shrink enlarged pores.
  • Simply apply Mint Julep Masque to your clean face and neck. Within minutes it firms and hardens, drawing out impurities from your pores. After the masque is removed, your skin will feel clean, refreshed and smooth.
  • Even for individuals who are fortunately free of skin problems, Mint Julep Masque is a refreshing facial treatment that helps relaxed tired muscles and ease tension lines on the face and neck.
  • No animal testing. No animal ingredients.
  • Queen Helene- Environmentally Concerned.
  • Made in USA
And here's my long-standing review!

The Good: Besides being a super affordable buy, this thick facial masque really softens the skin! Are my pores minimized? Maybe a leetle bit...but overall this mask just makes my skin look and feel cleaner, clearer and more rosy. Oh - the scent is literally a bit minty - which can be a good or bad thing depending on your scent tolerance!

The Bad: With all the nice outcomes that this masque provides, it can be drying. Therefore, if your skin is a bit dry already - probably not a good choice for you! My recommendations (regardless of your skin type, but especially for those with drier skin): 1) do not leave this on your face for more than 10-15 minutes & 2) moisturize heavily after the masque is washed off!

The Verdict: A- for me! This product is a staple in my cabinet and I personally like to frighten my husband with my Kermit face every once in a while :)

Have any of you ladies ever tried this drugstore wonder?

April 9, 2010

WTF Friday...Triple Threat

Happy Friday to everyone! Who's excited for the weekend?! Both hands up over here!

For today's edition of WTF Friday I have a few precious photos to share...first up is Ms. Ginnifer Goodwin....


Hmmm...Ginnifer that skin below your collarbone and above your navel is just stunning. Whaaa?? Plus, velvet? I know there have been some cooling trends, but this look is not cool. It bums me out because usually Ginnifer just kills it with her ensembles. This look just dies. It also vaguely reminds me of Silence of the Lambs - you know, when he's preparing his skin suit? I know...gross...sorry. No likey.



And then there is Leighton Meester - another adorable girl with a wonky ensemble. From the front, this dress is actually cute! Then we turn to the back. It's SUPER LEIGHTON! Fly away with your fringe! Either that or she's modeling spring's newest trend - Car Wash Accessories. WTF Leighton - stopit.



And it wouldn't be a true WTF Friday without some randomness from Mischa Barton. Mischa - Christy Turlington called from her 1985 Cosmo photo spread - she wants her outfit back. There is nothing good to remark about this atrocity - the red pumps are an awkward height, the jeans have a horrible fit (and NO one looks good in banana yellow jeans), plus keep your belly to yourself - I don't care how good or bad it looks.

Those are today's pics for WTF Friday! What do we think, ladies?!


April 8, 2010

Currently Craving...

Since I still in full-on shopping ban mode...I wanted to make a sweet little list of items I am craving! Let me know what you think & what you're craving!

BB Dakota "Hadley" Romper: So. Stinkin. Cute.

BB Dakota at ShopStyle

Love Ady Ruffle Front Romper: The color is so "summery"!

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Rachel by Rachel Roy Illusion Dress: It's a whole lot of print...but I really dig it.

Rachel Roy at ShopStyle

Lesa Wallace Eva Clutch: Genuine leather w/removable strap. Luf it.

Lesa Wallace Handbags at ShopStyle

Micheal by Michael Kors CrissCross Sandals: Yes, please. Now.
MICHAEL Michael Kors at ShopStyle

Cubicle to Cocktails & IRL Photos

Hi all! Today's edition of Cubicle to Cocktails features an adorable beaded belt and a lovely blush colored bag. While the bag is just a wee bit pricey I think the color is just gorg. The cubicle look is pretty basic and the ruffled open cardi can definitely transition into cocktail hour if needed.

As for the romper - the one below looks super cute. I'm not the biggest Bebe fan - but I'd pop in to see this little romper!


And...just to follow up Tuesday's post...here are a few IRL photos of The Limited romper and my new Corey Lynn Calter dress. If you look closely you can see a wittle Beagle in the background sweeping on the bed....!
These aren't the best photos...but here we go!

The Corey Lynn Calter Trisha Cowl Neck Dress: Size 2 - This fits pretty well. I lurve the cowl neck and the fabric is light and airy. Big fan of the lace print, too! It's a teeny bit on the shorter side, but I like it anyways!






The Limited's Jodi Arnold Silk Jumper: Size XS - As mentioned in Tuesday's post - I'm a big fan of this adorable romper.




So, what do you think? Are you a fan of the CLC dress? What about The Limited romper?

April 7, 2010

Cheap Thrills: Cantina Edition

Happy Wednesday to all!

Oh do I love today's Polyvore set of cheap thrills. There are some SUPER fun, affordable buys. My credit card is thanking me or my self-imposed shopping ban.

As for my personal cheap thrills - today's list is Cantina (Mexican fiesta) themed...
  • Margaritas - Yum. I do love myself a nice top shelf margarita. Salted rim, please!
  • Fresh made guacamole - Need I say more?!
  • Street tacos - No, not tacos off the street - but small (Coley-hand style) tacos. Delish.
  • Sombreros - A few margaritas and I will certainly sport a sombrero. In-deedy.
As for today's set - enjoy! Every item (per usual) is less than $25!
Cheap Thrills - Every Item $25 Or Less
Cheap Thrills - Every Item $25 Or Less by Coley's Closet Cravings featuring American Eagle Outfitters

April 6, 2010

A Few March Purchase Reviews: The Limited, MyShape.com & Corey Lynn Calter

Hi all! So, many of you know that I'm locked into my self-imposed shopping ban and it hasn't been too bad (yet) because I've had a few deliveries to the house from my late March shopping fits. Here are a few reviews...

The Limited

Flutter Sleeve Romper (Jodi Arnold collection)



I ordered this cute little silk romper in an extra-small. I really love it. For you teeny tiny things, I think the extra-small may be too large on you as it's a more relaxed fit in general. I have a good amount of room in the waist - yet you can cinch in with the silk drawstring. Overall, I love this piece and it would look great with flats or heels.

Ruffle Panel Front Top


This little top is just lovely for spring. I ordered a size small - and really should have ordered an extra-small. The fabric is soft and stretchy and isn't too sheer. I can see this nice, neutral top with many, many items for spring and summer!

Corey Lynn Calter

Trisha Cowl Neck Dress



I'm awaiting this little beauty to come to my door! I ordered a size 2 with the 30% off promo (code = DCCLC). As soon as I get my little paws on this one I'll send out a review!


MyShape.com

Plastic Island Combo Dress (Two-Tone Dress)



I ordered this little beauty from Myshape.com a few weeks ago in a size small. Well, four days after I ordered it (and paid for it) I was informed that it was out of stock in my size. I was NOT happy and politely relayed my frustration over to their customer service. And I have to say I am IMPRESSED. Monica, their director of customer service, contacted their Plastic Island vendor to try to find me another size small. Well, all they had were size mediums and larges - so Monica sent me a medium.

While it's a bit large, I have no problem getting it taken in - it's a lovely dress. Great dress, even better customer service - they really went the extra mile despite their inventory error.

Those are just a few reviews of recent deliveries!

What has come to your door that you care to share a review?!