Posts in "Budget"

First Family – Election Night Fashion!

Budget, Fashion, Lifestyle, Men, style | November 7, 2012

Tags: barack obama, election, Michelle Obama, obama

Here’s the First Family right before Barack Obama‘s acceptance speech! Michelle Obama is wearing a burgundy brocade Michael Kors shift and with a cropped black cardigan and one of her signature brooches. I love that she’s repeated this look before in 2010 and 2009 - times are hard and there’s no need to flaunt flashy new dresses! Props to Sasha’s swag!

See the full speech on CNN: http://bit.ly/TvVTqI

How to Get the Perfect Manicure

Beauty, Budget, Lifestyle, Shopping, style | August 22, 2012

Step 10: Clean up rough edges and let your nails dry.
Clean up any mistakes or wobbly edges by wrapping a piece of cotton ball soaked in nail polish remover around the end of your cuticle pen and carefully going over edges. If you’re using nail polish remover pads, simply fold one into a triangle for more precise application. Let nails dry an additional five minutes. And—voilà—perfect nails…at home!

If you’re cutting expenses or want to pamper yourself at home, here are tips to follow for a grade A at home manicure. Referenced article here: http://bit.ly/NQ83cu

: Step 1: Remove current nail polish (if any). Eliminate spills and smudges by positioning your arms and tools on a flat, protected surface. We recommend Butter London Powder Room nail polish remover, which smells great, Zoya Remove+, which comes in a genius no-spills bottle, and La Fresh Acetone-Free Wipes, which are way convenient. Wash hands afterward. *Butter London Powder Room nail polish remover: http://amzn.to/NQ8kfC ($5) *Zoya Remove+: http://amzn.to/NQ8uUj ($8) *La Fresh Acetone-Free Wipes: http://amzn.to/NQ8GTv

: Step 2: Clip, file and buff your nails. Clip nails first, if necessary. Then file (in one direction) to get your tips square, round or somewhere in between. Buff tops and sides of nails lightly with a nail buffer (not your emery board) to create a smooth surface. *Deep Sea Cosmetics Dsc Manicure Nail Buffer: http://amzn.to/NQ8Wlu ($5)

: Step 3: Push back your cuticles. Soften cuticles with oil or lotion and then push back gently with a cuticle stick. Your cuticles protect your nails from bacteria and keep them soft, so avoid cutting them. *MASH Bamboo Reusable Cuticle Pushers: http://amzn.to/NQ97xb ($4)

: Step 4: Exfoliate your hands. Exfoliate hands, wrists and forearms with a hand scrub that eliminates dead skin cells and replenishes moisture. Use a nailbrush to clean under nails. Wash hands afterward and dry them thoroughly. *OPI Manicure Exfoliate Skin Renewal Scrub Hand Treatment: http://amzn.to/NQ9EPM ($16)

: Step 5: Moisturize your hands. Moisturize now to avoid smudging almost-dry nail polish later. Take the opportunity to give yourself a mini hand massage—just because you’re not at the spa doesn’t mean you can’t relax! To finish, swipe each nail with nail polish remover. *Aveeno Active Naturals Skin Relief Hand Cream: http://amzn.to/NQ9Vlz

: Step 6: Apply the nail polish base coat. Apply base coat to hydrate and protect nails and prevent chipping. Nail guru Essie Weingarten, of Essie nail polish, recommends waiting two full minutes between each coat, starting with the base coat. *Essie Protein Base Coat: http://amzn.to/OFJpsQ ($4)

: Step 7: Apply the first coat of color nail polish. Now for the fun part! Apply a coat of your newest hue, being sure to get the brush all the way down to the cuticle and into the corners of the nail. Maximum coverage on the first coat makes the second coat a breeze.

: Step 8: Apply the second coat of color nail polish. After two minutes, apply the second coat of nail polish. Sheer glazes may require a third coat for full coverage.

: Step 9: Apply the nail polish topcoat. The topcoat protects your manicure from chipping and adds shine to nails. We love Seche Vite topcoat, for preventing even the slightest nicks and chips, and Butter London Hardwear PD Quick topcoat, for its “3 free” (no formaldehyde, toluene or DBP) formula. *Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat: http://amzn.to/NQcKTR ($5) *Butter London Hardwear PD Quick topcoat: http://amzn.to/NQcV1l ($15)

: Step 10: Clean up rough edges and let your nails dry. Clean up any mistakes or wobbly edges by wrapping a piece of cotton ball soaked in nail polish remover around the end of your cuticle pen and carefully going over edges. If you’re using nail polish remover pads, simply fold one into a triangle for more precise application. Let nails dry an additional five minutes. And—voilà—perfect nails…at home!

10 Affordable Beauty Products Every Woman Should Own

Beauty, Budget, Hair, Lifestyle, Shopping, Spring/Summer, style | August 20, 2012

Beauty Must-Have: Mascara

Long, luscious lashes are equivalent to the cherry on top of your favorite dessert. And it's OK if yours aren't naturally showstopping--you can easily add a little oomph to your everyday look. Take your lashes from short and sparse to full and fluffy in 30 seconds flat by swiping a few coats of mascara through them. Can't decide between the volumizing and lengthening formulations? For a fiercely gorgeous false-lash finish, use both--one coat of each!

L'Oréal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara: http://amzn.to/LCaU5d ($3)

Courtesy Photo

As a woman, there are tried and proved beauty products we should all have stocked in our closets. Look through to see what you’re missing! Referenced article here: http://bit.ly/LCbIY3

: Beauty Must-Have: Blush Blush is the ultimate instant picker-upper. Be it rose, apricot, raspberry, or fuchsia, gel, cream, liquid, or powder, nothing livens up the face faster than faking a fabulous flush with a pretty pop of color swiped across the apples of your cheeks. Revlon Photo Ready Cream Blush: http://rstyle.me/hr227fcypw ($13) Courtesy Photo

: Beauty Must-Have: Concealer If you find yourself plagued by dark circles, blemishes, pimples, and redness on a regular basis, it’s high time to become a pro at masking your minor imperfections. Make concealer your beauty BFF–nothing stands a chance against this cosmetic camouflage. E.L.F. Studio Complete Coverage Concealer: http://rstyle.me/hc96sjcypw ($3) Courtesy Photo

: Beauty Must-Have: Eye Cream They say the eyes are the windows to the soul–we say they’re the telltale sign of aging. While wrinkles are inevitable, you can stave them off for a while by sticking to a good preventive care regimen. Start using eye cream now to smooth over fine lines, reduce puffiness and the appearance of under-eye baggage, and brighten dull, sallow, shadowy skin. Olay Age-Defying Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream: http://amzn.to/LCa7kW ($12) Courtesy Photo

: Beauty Must-Have: Red Lipstick Much like your signature scent, every girl needs a go-to tube of red at her disposal for three reasons: 1) It’s boardroom- and bar-appropriate, 2) wearing it makes you ooze confidence, and 3) a racy red pout ups the ante for any outfit. Whether it’s crimson, cherry, cardinal, cinnamon, or candy apple, choose a shade that flatters your specific complexion and enjoy the high-fives on your bold beauty move. Revlon Super Lustrous Crème Lipstick in Wine With Everything: http://amzn.to/LCasEe ($3) Courtesy Photo

: Beauty Must-Have: BB Cream We like to think of blemish (or beauty) balm as a multitasking miracle in a tube. This cosmeceutical is suddenly all the rage because it’s a sheer foundation, moisturizer, primer, and toner all in one. The best part? It not only offers buildable coverage to hide even the worst of blemishes but actually treats them. That’s what we call double-duty beauty! Dr. Jart+ Black Label Detox BB Beauty Balm: http://amzn.to/PvB0fl ($20) Courtesy Photo

: Beauty Must-Have: Mascara Long, luscious lashes are equivalent to the cherry on top of your favorite dessert. And it’s OK if yours aren’t naturally showstopping–you can easily add a little oomph to your everyday look. Take your lashes from short and sparse to full and fluffy in 30 seconds flat by swiping a few coats of mascara through them. Can’t decide between the volumizing and lengthening formulations? For a fiercely gorgeous false-lash finish, use both–one coat of each! L’Oréal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara: http://amzn.to/LCaU5d ($3) Courtesy Photo

: Beauty Must-Have: Dry Shampoo When time is of the essence, a thorough cleansing-and-conditioning session may not be in the schedule. Buy yourself a little extra time between shampoos with a dry variation. The powder formula absorbs excess oil, dirt, product buildup, and odor, quickly cleansing your locks without even getting your hair wet. Klorane Oat Milk Dry Shampoo: http://rstyle.me/bt9qjscypw ($18) Courtesy Photo

: Beauty Must-Have: Deep Conditioner Regardless of style, texture, and current chemical state, everyone’s hair could benefit from a little extra TLC. Take the time to treat your tresses once or twice a month to an intensive, restorative deep-conditioning session that’ll nourish, fortify, and moisturize your mane. Trust us–your newly strengthened strands will thank you for it! Nexxus Humectress Hydrating Treatment Deep Conditioner: http://rstyle.me/bt7a6acypw ($14.23) Courtesy Photo

: Beauty Must-Have: Face Wipes You’re too tired, you’ve had one too many…blah, blah, blah! Sleeping in your makeup is absolutely terrible for your skin’s health and appearance, so before you drift off into la-la land, the least you can do is quickly remove it with a moist towelette. Here’s a quick tip: Store a pack in your nightstand so there’s really no excuse! Victoria’s Secret Beauty Rush Take It All Off Makeup Remover Wipes: http://rstyle.me/hhvi3scypw ($7) Courtesy Photo

: Beauty Must-Have: Sunscreen Did you know that the National Cancer Institute estimates a projected 76,000-plus Americans will be diagnosed with malignant melanoma this year? This type of skin cancer is entirely preventable, so you–no matter your age, ethnicity, complexion, or skin type–should be protecting your most precious asset from incredibly harmful UVA/UVB rays on a daily basis, whether the sun is shining or not. Elizabeth Arden Eight-Hour Sun Defense: http://amzn.to/LCbyjk ($22.77) Courtesy Photo

How to Be Summer Party-Ready

Beauty, Budget, Fashion, Hair, Health, Lifestyle, Party, Shopping, Spring/Summer, style | July 17, 2012

Shop for Clothes to Keep You Cool
Cute but causal is the goal here! A sundress in a bright color adds fun without the fuss. A romper, on the other hand, is perfect for chasing the kids around the backyard—no wardrobe malfunctions for you!

Aryeh Melon Love with a Dress: http://rstyle.me/hxv7rccypw ($72)
TOPSHOP Big Bird Playsuit: http://rstyle.me/hmfdwmcypw ($84)

Courtesy Photos (2)

If you’re headed to (or throwing) a party this summer, check out the tips below that’ll help make sure your look is tres apropos! Referenced article here: http://bit.ly/NbKMBb

: Shop for Clothes to Keep You Cool Cute but causal is the goal here! A sundress in a bright color adds fun without the fuss. A romper, on the other hand, is perfect for chasing the kids around the backyard—no wardrobe malfunctions for you! Aryeh Melon Love with a Dress: http://rstyle.me/hxv7rccypw ($72) TOPSHOP Big Bird Playsuit: http://rstyle.me/hmfdwmcypw ($84) Courtesy Photos (2)

: Search for the Perfect Cardigan Have a light sweater in a match-all color on hand—like this creamy option from Club Monaco ($140, clubmonaco.com)—to keep you warm when the sun starts to set. CLUB MONACO Janet Linen Cardigan: http://rstyle.me/hqp22gcypw ($79)

: Look for Comfy-Yet-Chic Shoes A wedged pair of espadrilles gives instant height, added support and won’t wear you out after a full day on your feet. Diane Von Furstenberg – Sudan: http://rstyle.me/hw3aa7cypw ($199)

: Master an Easy Up-Do Braided hairstyles are everywhere—just look at Scarlett Johansson working hers on the red carpet. To get her look (without the help of a stylist), part your hair down the middle, then braid it into two plaits. Crisscross each one over the crown of your head and pin either end behind an ear with bobbi pins. Pretty polished in no time. Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

: Wear Makeup That Won’t Melt The key to summer makeup that stays is all in the preparation! Layering priming formula under your foundation will help combat inevitable shine. Or buy a primer in a bronze shade to add a pop of color—and even out a new tan. Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Light: http://rstyle.me/bukbzccypw ($36) VS Pro Air Brush FX Illuminating Primer: http://rstyle.me/hnzd2vcypw ($18)

: Invest in the Perfect Apron Work your best Desperate Housewives chic with a feminine apron that just a pretty as the clothes you’re wearing underneath it! You’ll still look party-ready and avoid the accidental BBQ sauce spill. Red Roses Tea-And-Crumpets Apron: http://rstyle.me/hidps5cypw ($32)

: Create an Emergency Kit These life-savers are the items your friends wished they packed along. Place a bottle of sunscreen, a cooling skin spritzer, and a box of your cutest blister-fighting bandages on a pretty tray in your bathroom for those “just in case” moments. Cynthia Rowley band-aids: http://amzn.to/M5L8pM ($3) Evian facial spray: http://rstyle.me/e4gy7qcypw ($7) Neutrogena sunscreen: http://rstyle.me/bt7qjccypw ($9)

Style Alert! – Casual Friday

Budget, Fall/Winter, Fashion, Shopping, style | January 6, 2012

Tags: black lace, casual friday, leather shoulder, white house black market

Just because it’s casual Friday doesn’t give you an excuse to look schleppy. Check out this laid-back (but still put-together) casual Friday look. Don’t forget your style your hair in a topknot!

• Patent Leather White Quilted Leather Shoulder Bag:http://rstyle.me/qymcypw ($51)
• Women’s 7 For All Mankind The Skinny Leggings:http://rstyle.me/fvyemecypw ($169)
• Womens Black Lace-Sleeve Sweater by White House Black Market:http://rstyle.me/ftbttwcypw ($50)
• Womens White Seamless Square Neck Tank: http://rstyle.me/ftbn2scypw($28.50)
• Forever 21 Womens Black Leatherette Combat Boots:http://rstyle.me/fkejp6cypw ($33)
• Urban Outfitters Square Tortoise Sunglasses:http://rstyle.me/fy675gcypw ($18) •Susan Daniels purple leopard print silk scarf: http://rstyle.me/bghuhccypw ($84)

Best Celeb Dresses of 2011

Budget, Fashion | December 28, 2011

Tags: 2011, budget, celeb, celebs, dresses, red carpet

There were some MAY-JAH red carpet moments in 2011…and we’re going to help you relive them! Here are the best celeb dresses of the year…with similar looks that you can purchase for your budget and style.

Diane Kruger

EVENT:
The Met Gala

DESIGNER:
Jason Wu

WHY WE LOVE IT:
An up-to-there slit added the perfect touch of sex appeal to a dazzling long-sleeve bodice.
Boyod Sequin Sleeve Blouse
http://rstyle.me/gabuqccypw ($248)

Rag & Bone Ashton leather-trimmed silk maxi skirt
http://rstyle.me/bf3z44cypw ($175)

Catherine Middleton

EVENT:
The 10th Annual ARK Gala

DESIGNER:
Jenny Packham

WHY WE LOVE IT:
The Duchess of Cambridge looked pretty (and radiant) in sequin-splashed pink.

10 Crosby Derek Lam silk lame shirt dress
http://rstyle.me/fyjtdqcypw ($495)

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG Isadora silk-blend lamé gown
http://bit.ly/visNob ($487)

Jessica Alba

EVENT:
The BAFTAs

DESIGNER:
Atelier Versace

WHY WE LOVE IT:
Alba’s not afraid of color—and for good reason! The actress positively glowed in a vivid cobalt gown paired with bright lips.

Sena Flared Diamond Dress
http://rstyle.me/b5qpicypw ($495)

Gisele Bundchen

EVENT:
The 39th AFI Life Achievement Award

DESIGNER:
Oscar de la Renta

WHY WE LOVE IT:
The supermodel wrapped up her shimmering sequin gown with a hot pink bow.

dELiA*s Allover Silver Sequin Dress
http://rstyle.me/f99w2kcypw ($60)

Halle Berry

EVENT:
The Costume Designers Guild Awards

DESIGNER:
Elie Saab

WHY WE LOVE IT:
A brilliant hue amped up the star’s natural incandescence.

ASOS CURVE Lace Dress With Long Sleeve
http://rstyle.me/eka56wcypw ($64)

Gwyneth Paltrow

EVENT:
The Venice Film Festival premiere of Contagion

DESIGNER:
Prada

WHY WE LOVE IT:
The actress showed her softer side in an ultra-feminine blush confection.

ASOS Shift Dress with Cowl Back
http://rstyle.me/bu3v92cypw ($33)

Beyonce

EVENT:
The Beyonce Pulse Fragrance Launch

DESIGNER:
Lanvin

WHY WE LOVE IT:
The mom-to-be enhanced her maternity glow with a sparkling jeweled neckline and ethereal feather embellishments.

Notte by Marchesa Twist-Front Halter Gown
http://bit.ly/ryM1Jq ($925)

Emma Stone

EVENT:
The MTV Movie Awards

DESIGNER:
Bottega Veneta

WHY WE LOVE IT:
Colorful underthings added an edge to the actress’s ultra-feminine lace mini.

Tibi Imperial Lace Dress
http://rstyle.me/fk8xqwcypw ($517)

Angelina Jolie

EVENT:
Sarajevo Film Festival

DESIGNER:
Elie Saab

WHY WE LOVE IT:
Who says you can’t have it all? The leggy actress appeared both relaxed and polished in a billowy, high-slit design.

Urban Renewal Vintage Vintage ’70s Peach Evening Dress
http://rstyle.me/f73m2gcypw ($119)

Blake Lively

EVENT:
BAFTA Brits to Watch

DESIGNER:
Marchesa

WHY WE LOVE IT:
The 21st-century goddess complemented her California glow in an airy, Grecian- inspired design.

Alice + Olivia Carmen One-Shoulder Draped Dress
http://rstyle.me/e4t6xicypw ($128)

Kirsten Dunst

EVENT:
amfAR’s Cinema Against AIDS Gala

DESIGNER:
Chanel

WHY WE LOVE IT:
It doesn’t get much sweeter than this pastel palette.

ADAM Long Tiered Silk Dress
http://bit.ly/u1oqzT ($278)

Referenced article here: http://bit.ly/uUedDk

Versace for H&M Men & Women cruise collection (UK only!)

Budget, Fashion, Spring/Summer | December 19, 2011

Tags: cruise, cruise collection, donatella versace, ersace, H&M, resort, resort collection

Donatella Versace has decided to capitalize on her (somewhat) successful run with H&M by created a cruise collection. Before all you Americanos start planning your line-up schedule, this collection will only be available online and in the UK( H&M doesn’t have online sales in the US yet!).

Unless you have a friend across the pond who’s willing to wait in line for these pieces, you’ll have to do with the images…or just hit up ebay!

Style that fits YOUR Body!

Budget, Fall/Winter, Fashion, Shopping | December 5, 2011

Tags: style

As we all know, women come in different shapes and sizes. No matter your body type, rest assured that there’s a look for you. Here are great pieces to help you develop your personalized style.

H&M for The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo – Full Collection!

Budget, Fall/Winter, Fashion, Shopping | December 2, 2011

Tags: Girl with a Dragon Tattoo, girl with the dragon tattoo, H&M, The Girl with a Dragon Tattoo, the girl with the dragon tattoo

Here is the full collection that H&M created for The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo movie! The pieces are super wearable and I can see them on Lisbeth in a heartbeat. With the movie being released on December 16th, you can stock up on your H&M Lisbeth gear just in time!

Wallet Friendly Holiday Accessories

Budget, Fall/Winter, Fashion, Party, Shopping | December 2, 2011

Tags: holiday, holiday party, holidays

« Older Entries

Posts in "Budget"

First Family – Election Night Fashion!

How to Get the Perfect Manicure

10 Affordable Beauty Products Every Woman Should Own

How to Be Summer Party-Ready

Style Alert! – Casual Friday

Best Celeb Dresses of 2011

Versace for H&M Men & Women cruise collection (UK only!)

Style that fits YOUR Body!

H&M for The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo – Full Collection!

Wallet Friendly Holiday Accessories

Dress Like a Man

Booties for Fall!

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Posts in "Budget"

Dress Like a Man

Booties for Fall!

Morin

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DbM On the Web

Tweet by Morin