New York Fashion Week is in full swing! And besides the fashion, there are plenty of hairstyles to lust after, like this Regal Fishtail Braid seen on the models at Christian Siriano’s Fall/Winter 2013 presentation. Aveda’s Global Creative Director, Antoinette Beenders, came up with the looks. Here is what she has to say:

“This collection is inspired by the golden age of Russian Opera and Saint Petersburg’s Mariinsky Theatre. The clothing is rich and opulent so we designed a sophisticated, feminine look to properly complement it. From the front, the look has a lovely roundness. The braids at the back evoke refinement and glamour, reminiscent of a Russian Girl dressed for an evening at the opera.”

Although it was shown on the fall runways, braids are virtually seasonless and would look great incorporated into your spring or summer looks. If you’d like to give it a try, here’s a quick hairstyle tutorial so you can get the Regal Fishtail Braid by Aveda seen at Christian Siriano’s show.

1. Prep hair with Aveda Pure Abundance Style Prep and blowdry straight. Create a center part using a tail comb.
2. Make an inverted fishtail braid on each side of the head. Start at the crown and work your way to the back of the ear. Secure the end of each braid with an elastic band.
3. Tame flyaways with Aveda by Aveda Air Control Hair Spray . Gently massage braids to add some fullness.
4. Fold the braids over one another across the back of the head, just above the nape so that they crisscross. Secure with bobby pins and tuck loose ends underneath. Finish with hairspray!

Do you have any favorite hair looks from New York Fashion week yet? 

Stay tuned for more hair and beauty tutorials inspired by the trends seen at New York Fashion Week!

For constant style and beauty chatter, connect with me on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, too.

Photos: Jon Gurinsky for Aveda

{photo: via Flickr Motvi Fashion}

Guys, I look like a Smurf.

Well, I guess Smurfette would be the technical term.

My jeans hath bled their deep indigo dye all over me. My hands, my fingers, they look like I’m slowly transforming into an Avatar…

There’s a solution to everything though, right? Here’s what I should have done:

First, let’s clear up one thing– it’s not about the quality of your jeans. Designer denim will bleed just as much as your cheap-o denim, too. The thing is, the indigo dye used to make your jeans oh-so-dark and pretty is also notorious for bleeding. And that isn’t just a problem when you’re wearing a white shirt; my now-darkened Burberry bag is not happy about certain dark stains! So, what can ya do? Here’s a few things to try to keep your jeans from bleeding.

1. Wash ‘Em

Do not pass “Go” and collect $200, head straight home with those jeans and wash them right away before wearing. Make sure you wash them in COLD water and turn the jeans inside out. Hot water will shrink your jeans and you will not be happy. Don’t stick anything else in the wash so the dye doesn’t bleed and stain your other clothes. You’ve been warned.

2. Add Some Vinegar

Is this just an old wives tale? Maybe. But denim sources say a cup of white vinegar added to your cold water rinse will help keep the bleeding at bay. The vinegar is said to help seal the dye to stop or lessen the amount the denim bleeds. For tougher jean jobs, soak the denim in the bathtub with cold water and a cup of vinegar. You can safely keep your jeans soaked overnight if necessary. Just remember to rinse them out in the morning so you jeans don’t smell of vinegar.

Remember, hand wash your jeans if you’re concerned about having them retain their shape and by all means, do not run your jeans in the dryer.

Have you tried a vinegar rinse before to keep your dark denim jeans from bleeding? Would love to hear your results below!

For constant style and beauty chatter, connect with me on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, too.

Ready to brace the crowds for Black Friday?

I suppose it’s kind of like an Arizona summer. No matter how many times you’ve experienced it, when it finally arrives it somehow shocks the hell out of you.

While I’m not personally one to stand outside in the freezing cold for hours just to save a few bucks, I can totally understand the need to score some big-ticket items. Or at least snag some savings on some holidays gifts you have your eye on.

So other than shopping the ads in advance and preparing a shopping strategy, what else can make you prepared? Dressing the part of course! Here’s some helpful do’s and don’ts.

• Don’t wear sneakers. Not that you would. I trust you better than that. But just in case, you’ll want to keep in mind that when you’re trying on clothes, having to stop and tie your laces all the time is a total pain in the …
• Do bring a sweater. It’s cold. Yes, even in AZ. A light cardigan that can be easily layered vs. something you have to pull on and off over your head would be ideal.
• Don’t carry a clutch. Or a satchel or any other bag that doesn’t handles you can sling over shoulder. Think: Cross-body bag. They are your shopping best friend!
• Do wear flats. Or riding boots or whatever comfortable shoe you prefer. Sandals, Chucks, this season’s loafer or boat shoes are also comfy and stylish picks. (Except sneakers of course, see above.)
• Don’t wear a dress. Besides the fact that it’s cold, it’s totally inconvenient to not have pants on when you’re trying on tops. No one wants to see you in a Lady Gaga sweater+panties outfit.
• Mind your undergarments. This is shopping rule No. 1 gals! You should always be in nude-tone undergarments, strapless bra preferred. Why? It goes with any outfit you’re trying on.

• 

  Images: 1/2/3/4/5/6/7

  What’s your go-to outfit for a day of crazy shopping? Do you hit the shops on Black Friday?

  For constant style and beauty chatter, connect with me on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, too.

Sponsored by: House of Fraser

Choosing what to wear for a day at the office can be stressful enough, but when you’re faced with a “business-casual” dress code, it gets a lot harder. Knowing how to show your personal style while still dressing appropriately for work can throw up a lot of problems, so we thought we’d help you out with a few suggestions on how to prepare for any task you’ll undertake during the 9-5 grind.

The Commute

The key here is to remember that you’re battling against the elements, while trying to stay comfortable. Wear something that’s comfy and won’t get wrinkled for important meetings.

Scary meetings with clients

Depending on your job role, you’ll need to make sure you’re conveying the right impression and making them feel that their company is in capable hands. Try to wear something that shows your personality, without going over the top (no crazy prints or neon shirts) and smarten up your look with a well-cut blazer to give some authority to your outfit.

Slaving away at your desk

You need something comfortable, warm enough to deal with the freezing a/c but cool enough to cope with hot summer days. Store some flat shoes under your desk for general office work, and cover up with a neutral cardigan to tone down any bright or revealing dresses.

Payday liquid lunches

A leather or biker jacket can work wonders here; it toughens up any girly work wear and stops you looking too boring after being stuck at your screen all morning. Just throw it on over a summery dress and leave your flats on so no one knows how liquid your lunch really was.

After-work drinks

This is where you get to cast off the neutralising, smartening apparel you’ve been wearing all day and put on some killer heels to glam up for a night of socializing. The right dress will work in any of these scenarios, especially one like this green bodycon dress we’ve picked out; it’s figure-hugging enough for a night on the town, but easily dressed back down with opaque tights and a jacket. Eyeliner, foundation and lipstick will cover up those early-starts and make it look like you haven’t worked a day.

In just two weeks I’m heading off to sunny Puerto Rico for a destination wedding I’m in of one of my oldest friend’s. She’s getting married at the stunning El San Juan Resort & Casino, which means a fun-filled week of celebrating is on the agenda!

Of course, this means I’m already fretting about what to pack for my vacation. Because this isn’t just any vacation, it’s packing for a tropical vacation, and packing for a destination wedding. Two totally different animals with plenty of activities to think about.

The Rehearsal

We’re wearing our fun Bridesmaid shirts for the rehearsal and doing a casual night for dinner. So some sandals and a fun summer skirt are what I’m thinking for a tropical-meets-bridesmaid look.

The Beach

Well, we can’t go on a tropical island without spending at least some time at the pool, right? While I’ll be hiding under an umbrella, coverup, hat and big sunglasses, I can at least do so in style. I’m all for “laying out” with a cocktail in hand, as long as the sun isn’t on me. I’m a total maniac about keeping my skin away from the sun because just like everyone preaches, it’s the first thing to age you. Speaking of, I’ll be packing plenty of this:

Sun Protection

Aveeno Sun Hydrosport , Eugenia Kim oversize hat, Gucci sunglasses, Neutrogena Healthy Defense Daily Moisturizer

Those are just a few of my favorite travel beauty products. If I weren’t donning a bridesmaid gown, I’d be shopping for a fun dress to wear to the wedding. Here’s some ideas:

The Wedding

For more bridal bliss, check out my Behind the Veil bridal video series and Wedding Wednesdays. You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter, too!

I’ve never been huge on wearing red for Valentine’s Day. Sometimes I do it, sometimes I pass. Other times I wake up feeling like, “who the heck decided I should wear red or pink today like everyone else anyway?!”

But whether you choose to do just a small accessory or keep it hidden (with some lingerie, of course) one thing is true: Men Love Red. Love.

Classic red dresses and lingerie are always a win

For a fancy night out, keep things classic with a plunging red dress or this sassy lace one. Don’t forget about flirty undergarments–that’s more than half the fun!

Pretty in pink

For something a bit more demure yet romantic, I like to keep things pretty in pink. And for those that can never see themselves in allover pink, an accessory works great. I love the nude look above with the pretty pink clutch as an accent. And as far as gift ideas go guys, that pink leather card holder or Marc by Marc Jacobs pink bracelet are two can’t-go-wrong options.

Bold, tough accessories in red are always fun

Red can be tough too, like in these gold-accented accessories or paired with a slick leather jacket. It’s a different way to wear the color that’s funky and powerful.

What do you think? Will you be wearing a bit of red or pink this Valentine’s Day?

For constant style and beauty chatter, connect with me on Facebook or follow me on Twitter and Pinterest. 

Bella Swan's wedding makeup look

The teen wedding of the year is finally here! Well, I won’t go that far since most Twi-hards I know are well over their 20s (and 30s and 40s). The Twilight Saga’s Breaking Dawn part 1 finally came out in theaters this weekend, giving us Team Edward folks a chance to finally watch Bella marry her sparkling vampire soul mate. Recreate Bella’s bridal makeup look with tips from Emmy Award-winning makeup artist, Kevin James Bennett.

Skin

Bella’s skin looks beautifully smooth and even toned. This begins with the correct complexion products. Always start with well-moisturized and primed skin. Foundation needs a correctly primed surface (like a painter’s canvas) to apply evenly and stay put. CoverFX Skin Prep (normal/dry) or DermaDoctor Tease Zone (combo/oily) are two faves, but there are many other amazing primers out there. So experiment and see which formulas work best with the foundation you use. Try silicone-based foundations which won’t sink into or clog pores and are also naturally water resistant.

Brows

Brows must be groomed and filled in softly. Use an eyeshadow that matches the hair color and mix it with a little hard hair wax to color and groom eyebrows in one step. If you don’t feel like being a home chemist, try Benefit Brow Zingsor Smashbox Brow Tech.

Eyes

The first thing to do is neutralize any discoloration on the eyelid. Use a little foundation, concealer or a flesh-toned eye pencil (Three Custom Color Clarifier Pencil) all over the eye area up to the brow, then set with translucent powder.

Bella’s eyelid is washed with shimmering eyeshadow that reflects light without sparkling. Start with a shimmering Champagne color like OCC’s Loose Color in Clove. Apply to the very inner corner of the eye and blend this color outward towards the center of the eyelid. Next, use a honey brown color like Inglot Pearl Eyeshadow #421. Apply the eyeshadow starting at the outside corner of the eyelid, blending inward up into the crease.

Bella’s eye softly defined and smudged. Try a powder kohl pencil for this like MAC Eye Kohl Liner in Phone Number . Hold the pencil tip parallel to the lash line (not point in), begin drawing the line from where the inner lashes start and graduate from a thin to a thicker line as you reach the outer corner of the eyelid. This gives the eye a slight upward tilt and keeps it looking fresh and open. Take a small eyeshadow brush and diffuse the line by blending and smudging the liner into the lashes and blurring the hard edge. Now set the liner (using the same brush) with a matte taupe eyeshadow. Nars Matte Eyeshadow in Bali is a good choice. Use the same eyeshadow to line the lower lashes 3/4 of the way in from the outside corner.

Cheeks

Cheeks should look naturally flushed. Try using a cream/gel blush and then blending it into the skin with a foundation brush that still has a slight residue of foundation on it. It tempers the color and makes it look very realistic. One of my all time bridal blush faves is Tarte Cheek Stain in Blushing Bride (the name says it all, right?).

Lips

Bella’s lips are very natural looking but with a lovely innocent shimmer. Make Up For Ever Aqua Lip #3L. is the perfect rosey nude and waterproof. Define and fill in the lips entirely with this pencil, let it set for few minutes and then top it off with Armour Beauty Shimmering Gloss in Gypsy, a soft peach with gold shimmer.

As a beauty expert, KJ has appeared on national entertainment shows including Access Hollywood, Entertainment Tonight, Good Morning America, “E” Entertainment Network and HSN (Home Shopping Network). His advise has also been featured in the pages of Vogue, Glamour, Elle, InStyle, Town & Country and Self as well as trade publications WWD, Makeup Artist Magazine and American Salon.

To read more about Kevin James Bennett, click here.

For constant style and beauty chatter, connect with me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter.

Get your head out of the gutter folks, this post isn’t about throwing on your 6-inch YSL Tributes and holding a frying pan naked for your beau to see. (Though obviously, this would impress, I’m sure.)

It’s about the dinner party, or cooking any dinner for that matter. I have a particular knack for getting grease stains on just about every brand-new-I-can’t-wait-to-wear-this item. So I’m loving the whole “housewife chic” trend of totally trendy aprons.

A few brands to look out for, Sugar Baby Aprons, which is based out of Vancouver, and makes super cute vintage housewife photo shoots to show off their aprons, and Flirty Aprons, which has sassy modern aprons.

Check it out:

Above: Sugar Baby Aprons

Below: Flirty Aprons

Does this make you wanna bake some cupcakes or what?!

P.S. If you’re one of those gals who can’t or doesn’t like to cook, this getup will totally help convince everyone that you did not just order takeout, plate it and throw away the takeout boxes in the trash. Win win!

For constant style and beauty chatter, connect with me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter.

I’m writing this post on my layover at the Houston Airport en route to Costa Rica for a press trip. And as I look at the fashion disasters around me it dawns on me, I’ve never actually written about “airport chic” before. I’ve talked about it a lot, but the actual blog post never materialized. When it comes to style, traveling is fun for two reasons:

1. You get inspired from what you see all over the world.
2. Airport fashion is often a menage of total train wrecks.

By all means, please leave the tracksuits and PJs at home!

For the latter, I’m not sure why. Granted, airlines are not nearly as chic as they were in the Pan Am days when stewardesses had to be so hot they were weighed in (or so the ABC flail-of-a-show leads us to believe it was like that.) But that isn’t an excuse to dress like a douchebag. Besides the fact that sweatpants, even Juicy Couture sweat pants, are not meant for wear outside of the house, why would you don pajamas to travel in? There’s plenty of ways to travel, be comfortable and still look stylish. Here are my favorite tips, and rules of thumb, for mastering effortless, airport chic.

1. Try leggings

Leggings are chic and comfortable too

There’s nothing in the world more comfortable than leggings and it’s the closest thing to an acceptable “PJ cozy” look you can get away with in public. With some flats or cute riding boots, they’re an easy way to be comfortable and not have your feet hurt from airport walking.

2. Always layer

Always bring a cardigan-airplanes are freezing!

It doesn’t matter if I’m departing from Phoenix Sky Harbor airport in the middle of July when it’s 115, the plane is always sub-zero. Whether you prefer a cardigan, sweater, scarf or jacket, always be sure to layer your clothing.

3. Wear comfortable shoes

If you don't mind taking them off at security, boots are always stylish and comfortable

I’ll admit, sometimes I wear heels to the airport. In the form of 2-3 inch boots but nothing more than that. Six-inch Louboutins aren’t practical to travel in and you aren’t kidding anyone saying it’s comfortable “for you”. Instead, opt for some flats, sandals, riding boots, or a shoe with a modest heel. Most people will advise you to pack the boots since they’re a pain to take off at security but personally, I’d rather go through that extra minute to put them back on than to fill up my entire suitcase with one pair of boots. Wedges are safe too; just leave the towering stilettos in the bag.

4. Don’t forget your socks!

As a rule of thumb, I try to make my life easier and plan on wearing shoes that already incorporate socks. If/when I don’t, I bring a pair in my purse with me because it is always bound to be freezing. Don’t let your toes turn to ice and plan ahead!

What is your go-to formula for airport chic?

For constant style and beauty chatter, connect with me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter.

Fake eyelashes at the gym totally freak me out. I can say this because it hasn’t been just once, but multiple times I’ve seen this.

Ladies, I know there’s some pressure to look good at the gym. You’re sweating. There’s guys. Trust me, I get it. But caked on makeup and fake eyelashes is not a good look for you at the gym. Or anywhere for that matter. So how do you look good at the gym? Like all the beauty experts say, it starts with beautiful skin!

Thick foundation, false lashes and giant hoop earrings are not a good look for the gym

1. Wash your face
Thick foundation+sweating is going to equal nothing but a big gross mess and clogged pores. Then you’ll really be wanting to cover up all those breakouts. Do yourself a favor and take the time to quickly use a makeup cleansing wipe to take off excess foundation. It’s not a good look to see a girl carrying a towel that’s covered in beige makeup goo.

2. Exfoliate weekly
This will help get rid of dry, dead skin cells revealing beautiful skin. Then, you won’t even sweat it (no pun intended) when you ditch the foundation for a good workout.

3. Try concealer
Not wanting to let go of the foundation because your skin is less than perfect? Try using a bit of concealer instead. I dab a bit under my eyes when necessary or to hide any unsightly marks. Just be sure to not pile it on as I promise, it’s not necessary.

4. Use a ponytail
It still boggles my mind how many girls I see at the gym with long flowy hair extensions down their back, sans pony. Ladies, you aren’t fooling anyone. How much of a sweat could you possibly be working up with a Rapunzel-like mane drowning your neck? A guy would much rather see a girl breaking a sweat than the girl walking along the treadmill too scared to mess up her hair.

5. No hoop earrings
Do I even have to elaborate? Leave the jewels at home please. It’s a gym, not a club.

6. Try mascara
I have a hard time going anywhere without any mascara, I look dead without it. Instead of applying eyeshadow and eyeliner, try a bit of mascara if you don’t want to look like you’re falling asleep. It isn’t going to clog your pores like foundation and will help you look more awake.

7. Stop caring
From your outfit to your workout routine, choose something that makes you feel comfortable and just stop caring! Seriously, just remember Honey Badge, he don’t give a….

Everyone is there to get a good workout and sweat it out just like you, so stop worrying so much about what you look like and enjoy your gym time!

For constant style and beauty chatter, connect with me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter.