Spring 2011: Trend Time #5: Bold Prints

It's the last installation of Spring Trends 2011!

Trend #5 for Spring 2011 is chock full of bold prints. Dresses, tops, even bags are sporting big, bold prints. Whether you're print shy or adore a slammin' print, there is definitely something for everyone. I'm especially adoring the Tolani tunics and silk tops in addition to that very gorgeous strapless dress by Jessica Simpson. Yes, I'm surprised too.

Shortsleeve Tops by Tolani
Day Dresses by Tolani

So - do you pine for print?

Product Review: Smashbox Photo Finish Lid Primer, B+

Happy President's (or is it Presidents'?) Day to all! I'm actually attempting to *truly* take the day off of work. Hope you're all enjoying a lovely Monday.

Up for product review today is Smashbox's Photo Finish Lid Primer. This .08 oz. little baby retails for $20 at Sephora and Ulta.


Details from Sephora:

What it is:
An ultra-luxurious lid primer.

What it does:
Smashbox Photo Finish Lid Primer creates the perfect canvas for eyeshadow application. Wear this universal shade under shadow to increase longevity, or create the perfect nude eye by applying over the lid for an even tone.

What Else You Need To Know:
The exclusive formula contains Phytomoist, a plant-based hyaluronic acid for ultimate moisturization and amino acids for skin-smoothing benefits. Soft focus pearls help diminish the appearance of fine lines on the lids while the patented Qusome® delivery system ensures all ingredients penetrate the skin to deliver effective results.

My review:

The Good: The product definitely lives up to its longevity promises. I had zero creases, slippage etc. Plus, the formula is quite silky and blends very easily.

The Bad: The price is a bit high, IMO. It seems as if I have to use a bit more product vs. MAC paints (.23 oz. for $16.50).

The Verdict: It's a nice product, especially when you can score it in a value package like Sephora is offering here, right now. And I love their face primer. So, will I rebuy? Not sure, especially when I compare it to other products that I love.

Fabulous Friday: Um, Woah.

Quick post for this fabulous Friday...can we just talk about Cameron Diaz's arms?! WOW.
 

Photo via: Flynet

Adding an additional 6,734 bicep curls and shoulder presses to my workout right about...now.

Spring 2011: Trend Time #4: Never Ending Neutrals

Still on spring time trends, friends! Charlotte has had the most amazing run of stunning weather...to the tune of 60-70 degrees, so spring is most definitely on my mind!

Trend #4 for Spring 2011 is even more neturals! We've seen tons of white dresses during awards season and be prepared to see even more neutral shoes, skirts, tops, etc. in your favorite stores within a few short weeks. And it's not as if neutrals have been "out" but just prepare yourself for every shade of white, camel, beige, brown and more!

Some of my fave neutrals!

Longsleeve Tops by Elizabeth and James
Sandals by Michael Kors

What's your take on neutrals? Sweet or snooze?

The Good, The Bad and The Strange at The Grammys...

Did y'all catch The Grammys last night? I did...some of the show was interesting....a lot of it was, well, underwhelming, IMO.

But fashion, wise, let's look at first looks at the good:

Nicole Kidman looked lovely - just lovely. I'm diggin' fit and flare of the Gaultier dress, the loose waves and the non-tightness of her face.

Photo via: Jason Merritt/Getty

And how about Jennifer Hudson killin' it in this Versace?! Love it. I actually loved the Louboutins too.

Photo via: Jason Merritt/Getty

The bad...

Sorry, I did not enjoy Rihanna's JPG dress. Not flattering, not chic...looked a bit doily-trashy to me. Her makeup looked flawless, though...

Photo via: AP/Chris Pizzello

The strange...

Nicki Minaj...wtf is that? Gaga's ferocious rejects?

Photo via: Larry Busacca/Getty Images For The Recording Academy

All during the red carpet we saw Lady Gaga "incubating" in her egg-cellent entrance. Creative? Sure. Strange? Yeah. Especially when the result of her being "born" wasn't too exciting. I like the new song, Gaga, but the egg was a reach.

Photo via: Lester Cohen/WireImage

Did you watch The Grammy Awards last night?! Thoughts?

Spring Time 2011: Trend Time #3 - Full Skirts & Long Skirts

I suppose I could just title this spring trend skirts...but, well, that seems boring. Skirts are skirts are skirts. But, for spring this year we're seeing a couple new options - longer, fuller skirts that graze the knees and extra long, maxi, straight skirts.

Any way you wear it - don't skirt the issue!

Mid-length Skirts by Moon Collection
Long Skirts by Forever 21

Thoughts, ladies?

Product Review: Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation, B+

Monday came way to fast, didn't it?! Oh well - it's time for a product review!

If you're like me, you get positively giddy over the samples from an online Sephora order. I love me some samples. A while back I choose a sample of Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation.

At the time I didn't know too much about Perricone or their products - but, damn Gina, the full size foundation is pricey. $50 per ounce, son. I will say, though, you don't need much at all!

Details from Sephora:

What it is:
An age-fighting makeup that provides natural coverage and nonchemical SPF 30 protection.

What it is formulated to do:
Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation offers translucent coverage allowing the natural health and glow of skin to shine through while protecting the complexion against damaging UV rays. It works to correct skin undertones and offers all-day moisture, providing an even, dewy finish. A dose of specially treated pigments, blended with light diffusing mica, instantly soften the look of lines, wrinkles, and pores, creating a flawlessly radiant look.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens

What else you need to know:
This formula includes antiaging actives, DMAE and Alpha Lipoic Acid, which help to firm skin and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles over time.

My review:

The Good: The coverage is akin to a light, tinted moisturizer. And it really does cover nicely without sitting on the skin. Plus, there are so many good-for-your-skin nutrients packed into this moisturizer, it's hard to hate.

The Bad: $50 for 1 oz. *whistles*

The Verdict: B+ I really like the product, the intentions and the overall result. The price, however, holds me back from buying it up in a snap, though!

Spring 2011: Trend Time #2 - Orange

Gone are the days of Reese Witherspoon's Elle Woods quote, "Who ever told her orange was the new pink was seriously disturbed." Yes, ladies, orange is uber trendy for spring!

Personally, I like pops of orange, but I've never been brave enough to sport a full on dress a la orange. But, hey, for the super fans or those even remotely interested in orange, here's a myriad of ways you can sport this juicy color.

Day Dresses by Twenty8Twelve
Sandals by Tory Burch

Orange you glad spring is on its way?!