Greetings, all!
I've been blogging for quite some time - often around topics that give me much delight, including fashion, celebs, product reviews, sales, etc.
And while I certainly would still love to share some of my favorites in the categories above, I'm at a place in my life (working very full time with an adorable new kiddo) in which I can't dedicate enough time for proper, consistent posts. I would never want to keep up a blog "just because"...because that's just lame! Blogging deserves to be fun and inspired, not regimented and predictable.
If and when the mood strikes to kick up the blogging again, I hope you'll join me for some fashion and a giggle or two.
Love,
Coley
March 28, 2013
March 21, 2013
Celebrity Style Stalker: Kerry Washington
Kerry Washington. What a cute cute lady. And I have yet to be utterly disappointed in an outfit she dons...which is why I wasn't surprised to see this straightforward yet nicely put together ensemble she had on when she graced GMA a while back.
Short, a-line leather skirt with a bit of flounce? Check.
Cream, thick knit boxy sweater? Check.
Opaque black tights? Check.
Amazing Christian Louboutin high heeled brogues? Well, not quite. But we do the best we can.
Style stalk away, shop away...much more affordably.
Short, a-line leather skirt with a bit of flounce? Check.
Cream, thick knit boxy sweater? Check.
Opaque black tights? Check.
Amazing Christian Louboutin high heeled brogues? Well, not quite. But we do the best we can.
Style stalk away, shop away...much more affordably.
March 11, 2013
Product Review: Neutrogena Crease Proof Eye Shadow, B-
Happy Monday to all! Up for product review today is an eye shadow I received as a BzzAgent - Neutrogena Crease Proof Eye Shadow. This convenient eyeshadow is served up in a twistable, crayon like form and retails for $8.99.
About Neutrogena Crease Proof Eye Shadow:
Anti-Oxidant Rich Formula Nourishes the Delicate Eye Area
My Review:
The Good: I love the concept - an easy to apply, sheer but pretty wash of color for the lids that doesn't crease or fade. And yes, this delivers on those fronts. It's goof proof and the Lasting Taupe (muted silvery taupe) is especially pretty layered under a smokey eye and smudged on the lower lash line.
The Bad: Well, the wash of color is incredibly subtle. As in the Constant Copper looked more like ballerina pink on my medium skin tone - read: barely shows up. It's also worth noting that you should avoid layering the crease proof shadow on top of itself as it will start an ugly product buildup.
The Verdict: B-. For an eyeshadow base, this is a pretty sweet product. However, if you're looking for true color impact, go ahead and skip this option.
About Neutrogena Crease Proof Eye Shadow:
Anti-Oxidant Rich Formula Nourishes the Delicate Eye Area
- Built-in primer prevents creasing, fading & smudging
- Cream shadow instantly revives & brightens eyes
- Sheer silky color with light reflecting pearls instantly brightens eyes
- Ophthalmologist tested. Safe for sensitive eyes.
My Review:
The Good: I love the concept - an easy to apply, sheer but pretty wash of color for the lids that doesn't crease or fade. And yes, this delivers on those fronts. It's goof proof and the Lasting Taupe (muted silvery taupe) is especially pretty layered under a smokey eye and smudged on the lower lash line.
The Bad: Well, the wash of color is incredibly subtle. As in the Constant Copper looked more like ballerina pink on my medium skin tone - read: barely shows up. It's also worth noting that you should avoid layering the crease proof shadow on top of itself as it will start an ugly product buildup.
The Verdict: B-. For an eyeshadow base, this is a pretty sweet product. However, if you're looking for true color impact, go ahead and skip this option.
February 25, 2013
Oscar Gold
It seems that, overall, most played it pretty safe. I definitely saw some lovely dresses, but nothing that really surprised me (a la Gwyneth Paltrow's white cape gown from last year).
Before we get to my three faves...I must note that I really did not enjoy Anne Hathaway's pink Prada gown. Worst dart placement. Ever. See for yourself.
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| Photo via Reuters |
Kerry Washington in Miu Miu. Not a designer you see too often on the red carpet, but this gown's bodice detail and coral-red color are incredible.
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| Photo via Reuters |
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| Photo via Reuters |
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| Photo via Reuters |
Whose gowns did you love?
February 18, 2013
Super Sale at J.Crack...I mean J.Crew
PSA alert for all you President's Day shoppers...!
Whether you're working (sorry - boo!) or hanging in your PJ's watching reruns of Keeping Up With The Kardashians (sorry as well), J.Crew is having a great online sale. You can snag 40% off online final sale items with free shipping for any order with the code STYLE40.
Here are five picks that will transition beautifully into spring...!
Happy shopping, all!
Whether you're working (sorry - boo!) or hanging in your PJ's watching reruns of Keeping Up With The Kardashians (sorry as well), J.Crew is having a great online sale. You can snag 40% off online final sale items with free shipping for any order with the code STYLE40.
Here are five picks that will transition beautifully into spring...!
February 11, 2013
Top Three Grammy Gowns
Well...even though the stiffs behind the Grammys sent out the *don't show your lady bits and man parts* memo, plenty of stars still pushed the envelope last night. I spied a handful of sheer ensembles, racy slits and a mass of side and under boob.
Did the stars take the memo? Well...kinda. We didn't see any pasties a la Lil Kim...so there's that?
Anywho, below are my three fave gowns from last night...which were yours?
Did the stars take the memo? Well...kinda. We didn't see any pasties a la Lil Kim...so there's that?
Anywho, below are my three fave gowns from last night...which were yours?
February 5, 2013
Currently Craving: Winter Steals
If you're like 99% of the shopportunistic public, you probably enjoy a great deal. And being that we're deadlocked into the winter season, now is the seemingly perfect time to score some rawr-some winter deals.
I very much appreciate in season shopping, because let's be real - unless you're purchasing a very, very trendy piece, you'll likely wear a gorgeous wool coat for years on end. Thus, the inspiration for today's craves. Whether you seek an uber warm North Face puffer or a pair of gorgeous boots, those scores are definitely ripe for the picking.
Happy shopping!
I very much appreciate in season shopping, because let's be real - unless you're purchasing a very, very trendy piece, you'll likely wear a gorgeous wool coat for years on end. Thus, the inspiration for today's craves. Whether you seek an uber warm North Face puffer or a pair of gorgeous boots, those scores are definitely ripe for the picking.
Happy shopping!
January 28, 2013
Three Red Carpet Surprises on the SAG Awards
While I didn't catch the SAG awards last night, I spent a bit of time checking out the lovely gowns that graced the red carpet. And while I wasn't quite as impressed as I was with the celebs' Golden Globe gown selection, there were still some big surprises.
Three surprises that stood out to me...
1) Nicole Kidman in this sex-ay Vivenne Westwood gown. And super straight locks. And sheer elements. She looked absolutely lovely! I'm often not super inspired by Nic's choices, but this is gorgeous. Definitely outside of her typical covered up, conservative with a bit of edge, gown choice.
2) A young actress actually dressing her age. Yep - 13 year old Kiernan Shipka (of Mad Men) looked perfectly pretty in Oscar de la Renta. Up and coming actresses should take note!
3) Trends that are on fire: Brown-red lips, big waves, super sparkly gowns. While these may not be *surprises* for many, the brown-red lips don't really do it for me, but Claire Danes seemed to make it happen.
Gorgeous waves...
Glittery goodness...
Any surprises you took note of?
Three surprises that stood out to me...
1) Nicole Kidman in this sex-ay Vivenne Westwood gown. And super straight locks. And sheer elements. She looked absolutely lovely! I'm often not super inspired by Nic's choices, but this is gorgeous. Definitely outside of her typical covered up, conservative with a bit of edge, gown choice.
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| Photo via:
Matt Sayles/Invision/AP
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| Photo via: Frazer Harrison/Getty |
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| Photos via: Steve Granitz/WireImage; Jill Johnson/JPI |
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| Photo via
Kevork Djansezian/Getty
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| Photo via Kyle Rover/Startraks |
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| Photo via Kevin Mazur/WireImage |
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| Photo via Kevin Mazur/WireImage |
January 21, 2013
Product Review: Clinique High Impact Mascara, C+
Just like lip gloss/chapstick/lipstick/etc, I have a penchant for sampling a variety of mascara. Thus, it should come as no surprise that we have another option up on tap for product review...Clinique's High Impact Mascara.
While this is not a new product to the shelves, I've been meaning to give it a go for a while. Plus, with a promise of *high impact,* I was immediately intrigued. Unfortunately, I can't see myself purchasing this one in the future...
About Clinique's High Impact Mascara:
What it is:
A richly pigmented mascara that kicks up the volume of each individual lash.
What it does:
Get instant drama! Pump up the volume and length of each lash for a look that's lusher, plusher, and bolder. Dress your lashes in pure, deep color—wear it once and you'll feel naked without it.
What else you need to know:
Ophthalmologist tested.
My Review:
The Good: It definitely doesn't clump, goes on soft and smooth, and provides a very natural effect. Plus, it washes off very easily with a mild face cleanser.
The Bad: Well, I didn't see any high impact whatsoever. This is after I made sure to curl my lashes and swipe on two light coats. Meh.
The Verdict: C+. I appreciate the natural, soft effect but this mascara doesn't live up to its high impact name.
While this is not a new product to the shelves, I've been meaning to give it a go for a while. Plus, with a promise of *high impact,* I was immediately intrigued. Unfortunately, I can't see myself purchasing this one in the future...
About Clinique's High Impact Mascara:
What it is:
A richly pigmented mascara that kicks up the volume of each individual lash.
What it does:
Get instant drama! Pump up the volume and length of each lash for a look that's lusher, plusher, and bolder. Dress your lashes in pure, deep color—wear it once and you'll feel naked without it.
What else you need to know:
Ophthalmologist tested.
My Review:
The Good: It definitely doesn't clump, goes on soft and smooth, and provides a very natural effect. Plus, it washes off very easily with a mild face cleanser.
The Bad: Well, I didn't see any high impact whatsoever. This is after I made sure to curl my lashes and swipe on two light coats. Meh.
The Verdict: C+. I appreciate the natural, soft effect but this mascara doesn't live up to its high impact name.
January 13, 2013
Golden Globe Dress Faves!
My top five Golden Globe gowns from last night...although there were really so many lovely options! I spied very few *wtf was she thinking* ensembles...
Extra snaps for Claire Danes for completely blowing everyone's minds...girlfriend had her son Cyrus just 4 weeks ago. Like woah.
Extra snaps for Claire Danes for completely blowing everyone's minds...girlfriend had her son Cyrus just 4 weeks ago. Like woah.
January 8, 2013
Product review: Benefit Hervana Blush, A
Ah the perfect flush. The "Oh hai, I just got done trotting a 5k" cheeks can be hard to come by. However, I have found a new blush that I'm just tickled over - Benefit's Hervana. While this cheeky cheeker runs $28 per package, I contend it's well worth it.
About Hervana via Sephora:
What it is:
A "good karma" face powder.
What it does:
This powder in four shades–Lucky Shell, Divine Peach, Heavenly Rose and Berry Delight–blend together perfectly for an orchid-blossom blush with a soft satin finish. Swirl and sweep it on for a heavenly flush of enlightenment.
What else you need to know:
For an extra-angelic look, dot High Beam from cheekbones to temples. It's like a halo of highlighting!
My Review:
The Good: Color saturation is the bombdotcom. There's no glitter and really, I don't see much shimmer either. And guess what - this powder blush actually stays put for more than an hour. Since I'm not exactly painting on a full face of makeup these days, I find that a few swipes of Hervana really keep my face looking fresh, rosy and alive.
The Bad: $28 may be a little steep, but considering the color payoff I'd say it's justifiable.
The Verdict: Hervana earns an A from me! I'm seriously considering making this a staple in my makeup bag.
About Hervana via Sephora:
What it is:
A "good karma" face powder.
What it does:
This powder in four shades–Lucky Shell, Divine Peach, Heavenly Rose and Berry Delight–blend together perfectly for an orchid-blossom blush with a soft satin finish. Swirl and sweep it on for a heavenly flush of enlightenment.
What else you need to know:
For an extra-angelic look, dot High Beam from cheekbones to temples. It's like a halo of highlighting!
My Review:
The Good: Color saturation is the bombdotcom. There's no glitter and really, I don't see much shimmer either. And guess what - this powder blush actually stays put for more than an hour. Since I'm not exactly painting on a full face of makeup these days, I find that a few swipes of Hervana really keep my face looking fresh, rosy and alive.
The Bad: $28 may be a little steep, but considering the color payoff I'd say it's justifiable.
The Verdict: Hervana earns an A from me! I'm seriously considering making this a staple in my makeup bag.
December 31, 2012
Oh hey, baby!
Consider this my favorite review ever: Having a baby.
Harlie Grace was born on December 23: 8lbs, 3oz
The Good: Omigawd we have a baby. She's really amazing in every way and I already get antsy when I have to leave her for just an hour. Hubs and I are completely in love.
The Bad: When she's upset or inconsolable, it just kills me. However, considering she's just 8 days old I can't fault her for her minimal communication skills. ;)
The Verdict: A+. I think we'll be keeping this little peanut.
More posts on fashion, product reviews and other goodies to come soon!
Harlie Grace was born on December 23: 8lbs, 3oz
The Good: Omigawd we have a baby. She's really amazing in every way and I already get antsy when I have to leave her for just an hour. Hubs and I are completely in love.
The Bad: When she's upset or inconsolable, it just kills me. However, considering she's just 8 days old I can't fault her for her minimal communication skills. ;)
The Verdict: A+. I think we'll be keeping this little peanut.
More posts on fashion, product reviews and other goodies to come soon!
December 17, 2012
Product Review: ModelCo SHINE Ultra Lip Gloss in Strip Tease, B+
Another day another Birchbox goodie! I anxiously opened my December Birchbox like a kid on Christmas. Well, let's be honest, I express that joy probably every month. And I get really giddy when said box comes complete with a full size product, like today's product to be review - ModelCo's SHINE Lip Gloss in Strip Tease. This 4 ml gloss retails for $16.
About ModelCo Shine Lip Gloss via Birchbox:
Sydney-based ModelCo prides itself in creating products that are fuss-free but high impact—ideal for off-duty beauties (models and non-models, alike). This non-sticky gloss goes on smoothly and gives lips a soft punch of sheer, slightly shimmery color. This slim tube has a built-in mirror so you can reapply on the go.
These lush hues can be worn alone or layered over bolder lipsticks. It stays put for hours, without ever feeling heavy and there are three shades to choose from: red, pink, and light peach.
My Review:
The Good: ModelCo scores points with me for the trifecta in their gloss - great texture (not too sticky or gloppy), lovely shine (no glitter particles here), and fabulous scent (smells a bit like Sweet Tarts candy to me). The shade Strip Tease is a very translucent pinky-peach that would pair great with nude lips or just swipe on for a barely there face. Plus, the slim gloss tube (new packaging, perhaps?) has a built in mirror - which is so convenient, especially if the shade you choose is packed with color.
The Bad: $16 for a gloss isn't super steep, but it's not cheap either. And at the rate that I plow through lip product, a gloss has to be perfection for me to remain a staple in my handbag.
The Verdict: B+ from me. It's a great product with equally smart packaging. I'd love to try the other shades of said gloss...Showgirl Red and Berry Pink are beckoning me!
About ModelCo Shine Lip Gloss via Birchbox:
Sydney-based ModelCo prides itself in creating products that are fuss-free but high impact—ideal for off-duty beauties (models and non-models, alike). This non-sticky gloss goes on smoothly and gives lips a soft punch of sheer, slightly shimmery color. This slim tube has a built-in mirror so you can reapply on the go.
These lush hues can be worn alone or layered over bolder lipsticks. It stays put for hours, without ever feeling heavy and there are three shades to choose from: red, pink, and light peach.
My Review:
The Good: ModelCo scores points with me for the trifecta in their gloss - great texture (not too sticky or gloppy), lovely shine (no glitter particles here), and fabulous scent (smells a bit like Sweet Tarts candy to me). The shade Strip Tease is a very translucent pinky-peach that would pair great with nude lips or just swipe on for a barely there face. Plus, the slim gloss tube (new packaging, perhaps?) has a built in mirror - which is so convenient, especially if the shade you choose is packed with color.
The Bad: $16 for a gloss isn't super steep, but it's not cheap either. And at the rate that I plow through lip product, a gloss has to be perfection for me to remain a staple in my handbag.
The Verdict: B+ from me. It's a great product with equally smart packaging. I'd love to try the other shades of said gloss...Showgirl Red and Berry Pink are beckoning me!
December 10, 2012
Top 5 Maternity Items For Cold Weather
Yeah yeah, I know many of you are probably thinking of your adorable, sparkly holiday outfits and not anything even remotely maternity-esque. But for those who are pregnant or are looking to become so, I've rounded up my top five must-haves* for those ladies incubating a little one during a chilly season.
*And yes, I am completely sick of said items, but they've become tried and true over the past few months!
1. Leggings: Sure, this may seem obvious, but it's tough to strike the balance of affordable and non-transparent leggings when it comes to maternity wear. I personally prefer Gap's crop maternity version but it looks like they stopped selling that length in the fall. I have no doubt that their full length version is just as comfy and flattering. I think I have at least five pairs of said leggings on rotation. While I love designer denim, at the very late stages of pregnancy I have little interest in pulling on anything that isn't 100% stretch.
2. Winter coat: This was a tough one. I didn't want to really test the limits of my pricey North Face fleece so around the 28-30 week mark I started looking for a warm and non-offensive coat that I could actually button/zip/snap around my bump. Of all places, guess where I found a total winner? Walmart. Yes. Walmart.
No, I didn't venture in store because apparently many Walmarts do not carry many maternity goods. I bought this maternity puffer jacket (in black) online for $21 plus $.97 shipping. It has been worth every single penny. It's comfortable, fits nicely and is damn warm - it even hosts a fleece lining and a hood. It looks like the version I grabbed currently out of stock online, but either check back or take a peek at the regular sized Faded Glory puffer coats in a size or two up. I've also seen a few cute, really affordable options at Old Navy.
3. Seamless tanks: When your belly starts a bustin' out, you'll want something smooth and comfy to sport keep things under wraps beneath sweaters and cardigans. Some of my favorite seamless tanks are from the BeMaternity line at Target in addition to a handful I purchased at Pea In the Pod.
4. Awesome, flat boots: Take your pick, friends. I'm sure you figured, but sporting super high heels while very pregnant is not the smartest thing. Your back already aches, so adding additional pressure probably isn't the best idea. To go along with all of those rockin' leggings, go ahead and indulge in some great flat - 1.5" heeled boots. A few of my picks are below - just make sure that your boots have proper tread on the bottom! Otherwise you could pull a Coley and totally bite it on the mall floor when your soles are a little wet. Impressive, I know.
5. Open cardigans, sweaters and jackets: Look, if you can buy things that you can wear now and possibly later, all the better. I've found a ton of really cute open sweaters and jackets that are non-maternity so I don't feel like I'm blowing my cash on maternity specific goods. Pair said topper with a seamless tank or fitted sweater and you're good to go. Here are a few options...
Have a great Monday, all!
*And yes, I am completely sick of said items, but they've become tried and true over the past few months!
1. Leggings: Sure, this may seem obvious, but it's tough to strike the balance of affordable and non-transparent leggings when it comes to maternity wear. I personally prefer Gap's crop maternity version but it looks like they stopped selling that length in the fall. I have no doubt that their full length version is just as comfy and flattering. I think I have at least five pairs of said leggings on rotation. While I love designer denim, at the very late stages of pregnancy I have little interest in pulling on anything that isn't 100% stretch.
2. Winter coat: This was a tough one. I didn't want to really test the limits of my pricey North Face fleece so around the 28-30 week mark I started looking for a warm and non-offensive coat that I could actually button/zip/snap around my bump. Of all places, guess where I found a total winner? Walmart. Yes. Walmart.
No, I didn't venture in store because apparently many Walmarts do not carry many maternity goods. I bought this maternity puffer jacket (in black) online for $21 plus $.97 shipping. It has been worth every single penny. It's comfortable, fits nicely and is damn warm - it even hosts a fleece lining and a hood. It looks like the version I grabbed currently out of stock online, but either check back or take a peek at the regular sized Faded Glory puffer coats in a size or two up. I've also seen a few cute, really affordable options at Old Navy.
3. Seamless tanks: When your belly starts a bustin' out, you'll want something smooth and comfy to sport keep things under wraps beneath sweaters and cardigans. Some of my favorite seamless tanks are from the BeMaternity line at Target in addition to a handful I purchased at Pea In the Pod.
4. Awesome, flat boots: Take your pick, friends. I'm sure you figured, but sporting super high heels while very pregnant is not the smartest thing. Your back already aches, so adding additional pressure probably isn't the best idea. To go along with all of those rockin' leggings, go ahead and indulge in some great flat - 1.5" heeled boots. A few of my picks are below - just make sure that your boots have proper tread on the bottom! Otherwise you could pull a Coley and totally bite it on the mall floor when your soles are a little wet. Impressive, I know.
5. Open cardigans, sweaters and jackets: Look, if you can buy things that you can wear now and possibly later, all the better. I've found a ton of really cute open sweaters and jackets that are non-maternity so I don't feel like I'm blowing my cash on maternity specific goods. Pair said topper with a seamless tank or fitted sweater and you're good to go. Here are a few options...
Have a great Monday, all!
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