12.31.2012

A Golden New Year's Eve

Golden New Year's

I have yet to enter the realm of adult-esque New Year’s Eve parties requiring full-on sequins {much to my chagrin}; still partaking in celebrations wherein I sneak a few sequins in for good measure {hello sparkly miniskirts paired with slouchy knits, and twinkling tanks coupled with skintight denim!}. That said, it is always nice to dream of such glittering gatherings; and, with the magic of the season still dancing around us, now seems as good a time as any to create a look designed specifically for such a fantastical, golden NYE event – and so I have. Wishing all of you a New Year’s Eve as bubbly as champagne!

Parker Cluster Beaded V Neck Dress in Mauve
Christian Louboutin Pigalle 100 Patent-Leather Pumps
Essie Nail Color in Beyond Cozy
Diane von Furstenberg Carolina Lips Metallic Clutch in Platino
NARS Lip Gloss in Greek Holiday
Mara Carrizo Scalise Elba Knot Ring in Yellow / White Gold
MILANI Baked Shadow in Drench in Gold
Gorjana Viceroy Bracelet in Gold


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12.30.2012

NOTD: Top 5 Manis of 2012!

As we are just hours away from 2013, I thought today would be an awesome time to do a little recap of my five favorite manis of 2012. Check out my picks below!

Sally Hansen Lustre Shine in LAVA

{View swatches and more info here}.


Essie MOJITO MADNESS

{View swatches and more info here}.


Julep SASHA

{View swatches and more info here}.


Essie PENNY TALK

{View swatches and more info here}.


China Glaze TRAFFIC JAM

{View swatches and more info here}.


Which 2012 mani was your favorite?

Follow me on Instagram @cafefashionista to see more of my favorite nail colors / art.


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12.29.2012

Style Guide: Belle de Noir for New Year's Eve...

"That's what we do in New York. We wear black T-shirts, black jeans, and we put on black sunglasses. You can be yourself and be creative in the color. And you can't see any of your imperfections - not that there's anything wrong with being imperfect."
Lady Gaga

When the Ball Drops...
Armani Beauty Rouge D'Armani Lipstick - Rouge 401 + Elizabeth and James Jillian Top + Kiki McDonough Citrine & Diamond Stud Earrings + Balenciaga Giant Premier Clutch + Melanie Georgacopoulos White Pearl & Yellow Gold Arlequin Ring + Charlotte Olympia The Dolly Suede Slingbacks

Blame it upon the celebratory ball drop in Times Square at the Stroke of Midnight; but when it comes to New Year's Eve, I always find myself in a New York State of Mind. As such, I can't help but to embrace Lady Gaga's reasoning of New York style {black, black, and more black} for the hours that bridge the present {2012} to the future {2013}. Which is precisely why, out of all of the current trends featured on Matches, I found myself most enamored with the Belle de Noir set; a selection of glamour that juxtaposes the dark-as-night vampiness of blackest black with the bubbling sophistication of gold.

While I love sequins as much as the next girl, there is something incredibly disarming about a drapey top that hangs just so, concealing and revealing in the same breath; especially when coupled with a pair of rebellious, rock & roll-approved leather skinny trousers, and styled alongside teetering suede slingbacks. Toss a pair of twinkling oversized studs, an eye-catching bauble with two-faced capabilities, and a fierce biker babe-esque clutch into the mix; finish off with an essential red lip...et voila! You're ready for anything the New Year may have in mind for you - including a kiss from a handsome stranger as the clock strikes twelve.

What will you be wearing for New Year's Eve, dolls?





FTC Disclosure: This post was written in partnership with Matches. All opinions expressed herein are my own.
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12.28.2012

OOTD: Purple Pop


I take all of my outfit pictures in front of my bedroom mirror using my iPhone; so if you Follow Me On Instagram @cafefashionista it's likely that you see me post style shots to my feed a few times each week. That said, I rarely post personal style here on Cafe Fashionista, as I don't have a photographer at the ready. Today that changes. One of my New Year's Resolutions {I am attempting to make a few this year} is to feature some of my personal style here each month, starting with one of my favorite recent looks, which I have titled...Purple Pop. I hope you like it loves {and see if you can spot my furry photobomber}!

Forever 21 Marled Knit Cardigan {old} {similar here}
Forever 21 Ribbed V-Neck Tee in Lavender / Lilac {old} {similar here}
Forever 21 Whiskered Skinnies in Medium Denim {old} {similar here}
Sock Dreams Super-Long Ribbed Leg Warmers in Charcoal {exact}
Nine West Magic Boots in Black {old} {similar here}
China Glaze Urban Night Nail Polish

Follow me on Instagram @cafefashionista to see more of my Outfits of the Day {OOTD}.


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12.27.2012

Cafe Fashionista {Style} Inspiration

December 2012
From left-to-right.

I had so much fun putting together my last Style Inspiration post that I thought now would be a good time to create another {seeing as how we will be bidding adieu to 2012 in a few short days}. Et voila! Here it is. During the winter months, I tend to favor pastel shades {reminiscent of cotton candy and Princess Frostine of Candy Land} mixed with a smattering of deep jewel tones {ranging from jades and emeralds to cobalt’s and teals}; all of which can be seen in the {ultra-glamorous obsession-worthy} pieces that have been inspiring me as of late. Enjoy, my loves!

Sole Society Miranda Wedge Bootie in Taupe
Noir Jewelry Short Pastel Hacienda Necklace in Pastel Multi
mark Fragrance Hits
Overture Judith Leiber Megan Cylinder II Clutch in Fuchsia
Essie Mint Candy Apple
Xhilaration Hi-Low Pullover Sweater in Honey Blush
Orly Angel Eyes
Loeffler Randall The Mini Rider Bag in Nude
Rebecca Minkoff Mabel Strappy Booties in Okra
Jules Smith Boho Hoop Earrings in Rose Gold
Kate Spade New York Sprinkles Lip Crayons
Lauren Conrad Beauty by Lauren Conrad
mark Serious Rock Ring
BDG Cable Knit Beret
Marc by Marc Jacobs Mr. Pickles Bulldog Loafers in Black / White
Steve Madden Solid Loopy Knit Snood in Peacock
Bing Bang Crystal Shard Ring in Rose Gold
FREEBIRD by Steven Mezcal Wraparound Booties in Black
Gossip Girl: The Complete Fourth Season
mark Cross Over Bag


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12.26.2012

Charge It, Please!

Street Style

Adoring:

Current / Elliott The Ankle Skinny Jeans in Midnight Tapestry
Isabel Marant Franklin Boots in Navy
Monrow Double Tissue V in Black
MICHAEL Michael Kors Uptown Astor – Medium Crossbody Satchel
Jacquie Aiche Double Diamond Waif Ring
Marc by Marc Jacobs Baby Dave Watch in Rose Gold
Stella McCartney Rounded Cat Eye Sunglasses in Mushroom
Belle Noel GlamRock Ring in Rose Water Opal
OPI The World Is Not Enough from the Skyfall James Bond Collection

Tell me, my loves; what are you currently adoring?


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12.25.2012

Merry {Merry} Christmas!


"One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas day. Don't clean it up too quickly."
Andy Rooney

♥ Merry Christmas, my loves! ♥






Thanks to 5 Inch and Up for the picture.
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12.24.2012

Christmas 2012 Wishlist!

Christmas 2012 Wish List
Horizontally, then from left to right.

When it comes to the holiday season, I am a far better giver than receiver - finding myself on a constant search for the perfect gift for someone or other on my shopping list yet never divulging what I would love to find awaiting my arrival underneath the tree come Christmas morning {apologies to all who have to shop for me, I know it’s quite the chore}. Nevertheless, I do take time to send off a letter to Santa every year {it’s not an activity meant solely for children, mind you}; and construct une petite wishlist featuring my craves and covets for the holiday. Today, in the spirit of Christmas Eve, I am sharing my 2012 Christmas Wishlist with all of you. Here’s to a Happy Christmas Eve, my loves! May it be brimming with hot chocolate, fresh-baked cookies, twinkling fairy lights, roaring fireplaces, and stolen kisses underneath the mistletoe!

Stuart Weitzman SPATS in Topo Suede
CATBIRD Heart Ring in Yellow Gold
SEPHORA COLLECTION Izak Mini Lip Gloss Set
Steve Madden Solid Loopy Knit Snood in Magenta
MANGO Embellished Shoulders Sweatshirt
Fifth Avenue, 5 AM by Sam Wasson
Topshop Andie Faux Leather Skater Skirt in Black

What's topping your Christmas 2012 Wishlist?


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12.23.2012

Holiday Style Guide 2012: After-Christmas Sale Shopping!

While Santa and his crew of reindeer have yet to arrive up on the rooftop bearing gifts {and seeking a snack of fresh-baked cookies, hot chocolate, and, not to be forgotten, carrots}; in less than 72-hours, the presents will be unwrapped, we will all be attempting to recover from our food comas, and the hustle and bustle will be back in full-swing as we head out the door to hit the after-holiday sales that beckon to us bright and early year after year. Fatigue may be pushing us in the direction of sweatpants as we converge on half-price LBD’s and DVD’s, but so is not the way of the true fashionista. In the words of Karl Lagerfeld, “Sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life, so you bought some sweatpants.” Lagerfeld’s wise words in mind, avoid falling prey to unfashionable fodder with a cute, flirty, or luxe look that will keep you looking chic as you shop ‘til you drop!

FLIRTY

After-Holiday Sale Shopping: Flirty

BDG Cable Knit Beret in Gray
Tarte Cheek Stain in Blissful
3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Messenger Bag in Black
Apt. 9 Jet Simulated Crystal Dome Stretch Ring
Falke Striggings Knee High Socks in Grey Mix
LC Lauren Conrad Tall Boots
mark Wear With All Dress


CUTE

After-Christmas Sale Shopping: Cute

Free People Songbird Pullover in Natural
Rebecca Minkoff Mini Luscious Hobo with Studs in Sand
TEXTILE Elizabeth and James Debbie Skinny Jeans in Tornado Torn
Stuart Weitzman SPATS in Topo Suede
Diane von Furstenberg Circle Scarf in Starred Clouds / Tree Line
Essie Where’s My Chauffeur?
mark Pro Gloss Hook Up Plumping Lip Shine in Smashing
Kenneth Jay Lane Filigree & Crystal Pendant Necklace in Gold / Crystal


LUXE

After-Christmas Sale Shopping: Luxe

Jennifer Lopez Faux-Fur Coat in Black
J Brand 901 Waxed Legging Jeans in Stealth
Jennifer Lopez High Heel Ankle Boots
Fallon Jewelry Jagged Track Bracelet in Gold
ONE by Abaco Jamily Bag in Black / Gold
Estee Lauder Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick in Rich Red
mark Hoop for the Best Earrings

Will you be participating in 2012’s After-Holiday Sales? What will you be wearing?


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12.22.2012

Holiday Blog Swap with Carrie of Couture Carrie!


Carrie of Couture Carrie was one of the first bloggers I met when I entered the blogosphere nearly four years ago. With history like that, I could not pass up the opportunity to take part in a Holiday Blog Swap with her. We set the swap price at $50.00 {P.S. It is incredible how many amazing things you can find on a $50 budget}, and got to shopping. Check out the goodies Carrie sent me below; and see what I purchased for Carrie here!


AVON TRUE COLOR Eyeshadow Quad in Arctic Goddess: The ultimate ice queen / mermaid eyeshadow palette! The shades range from a frosty lilac to a frosty green to an {incredibly awesome!} matte blue {think deep blue sea ocean blue} to a dark matte forest green. Together, they create a beautiful twist on a standard smoky eye; but can also be worn separately for a more subtle beauty look. Love!
Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish in Red Zin: Seriously obsessed with the vampiness of this shade – it’s a rich garnet red that is so holiday perfect. This is definitely my next mani – watch for swatches in January!
Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish in Good to Grape: Super pretty mid-toned purple {that I don’t have a dupe of in my nail polish collection!}. What I love about these polishes is that they are a base coat, color, and top coat {Complete Salon Manicure} in one.
IsaDora Eye Shadow Trio in Purple Vain: This palette came at the perfect time! I have been wanting to try a purple shadow {I have green eyes, and purple is said to make my eye color pop}, and this one features three purple tones – Light Lavender, Medium Purple, and Deep Purple. So pretty!
Jonathan Adler Gift Enclosures: This is one of the cutest items I have ever received. It is a colorful gift box filled with 15 mini cards that you can include with gifts you give throughout the year {given the fact that the cards are so adorable, I have yet to decide whether I’ll be sharing them or simply keeping them for myself!}.
AVON GLAZEWEAR VitaLuscious Lip Gloss in Wine Wellness: Self-professed lip gloss addict here! This one is long-wearing and gives you the perfect balance of color and glossiness. Also pertinent…how perfect is the color name {Wine Wellness} for the holidays?
AVON Holiday Sweets Mini Emery Board: I am a total sucker for all of Avon’s holiday-focused beauty products, so I am slightly obsessed with this emery board. The print features a Sugarplum Fairy, Santa Claus, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and a Polar Bear. Cuteness!

So loves...what do you think of my blogger swap goodies? Have you tried any of these products before?


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12.21.2012

Wardrobe Essentials {and Wishes} for Winter 2012 / 2013!

Fashion - Winter 2012/2013 Style!
Horizontally, then from left to right.

As today is the official First Day of Winter, I thought that a tribute to a new season of style was in order – if only to sate the wardrobe wishes of yours truly {and appease Jack Frost}. Thus, I bring you Wardrobe Essentials {and Wishes} for Winter 2012 / 2013! Some I already own {hello Victoria’s Secret, mark, and Maybelline}; others, we all need in our life. No, I am so not joking. Happy, Happy Friday {and Winter}, ladies!

Three Floor Field Trip Parka in Khaki
Sam Edelman Tucker Boots in Saddle
Rebecca Minkoff Skylar Bag in Black
Eugenia Kim Jill Slouchy Beanie
J. Crew Wool-Angora Snood in Antique White
J. Crew Wool-Angora Glittens in Heather Camel
Maybelline New York Baby Lips Lip Balm in Peach Kiss
mark Hand It Over Super Moisture Hand Cream in Lemon Sugar
Juicy Couture Pyramid Watch Strap Bracelet in Amaretto
Overture Judith Leiber Danielle Faceted Clutch in Silver / Silver
Topshop Knitted Contrast Cable Jumper in Cream
Topshop Knitted Wolf Jumper in Tobacco
J Brand 811 Mid Rise Skinny Jeans in Salem
alice + olivia Anika Shearling Booties in Chestnut
Madewell Perfect Chambray Ex-Boyfriend Shirt in Ferrous Wash
mark Alpine Style Sweater
The Eternal Leather Banded Pants in Blue
Xhilaration Over the Knee Button Socks
Victoria’s Secret PINK Flirt Push-Up Bra in Pink Shine Leopard
Victoria’s Secret PINK Cheekster Panty in Pink Shine Leopard
Rag & Bone Raw Edge Leather Renard Skirt in Black
TRASPARENZE Osaka Grey Striped Tights
Rag & Bone Renard Brocade Dress
Parker Sequin Dress in Grey
Sole Society MARGIE Stud Pump in New Ultra Pink


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12.20.2012

Holiday Style Guide: Magical {Sparkly} Manis

Holiday Style Guide 2012: Magical {Sparkly} Manis
From Left to Right

Deck your fingertips with holiday sparkle via a glittery lacquer that is equal parts seasonal and spectacular!

ORLY Devil May Care
Deborah Lippmann Cleopatra In New York
Zoya Nail Polish Electra
butter LONDON 3 Free Nail Lacquer in Rosie Lee
JULEP Nail Vernis Barbara
SEPHORA by OPI Jewelry Top Coats in Not Your Average Turquoise
OPI Goldeneye from the Holiday 2012 James Bond Skyfall Collection
nails inc. Nail Jewelry in Piccadilly Arcade


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12.19.2012

Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Last Minute

Slacked on your holiday shopping and now you’re strapped for time to find the perfect present? Relax! I have found sixteen fabulous last-minute gifts that will set your mind at ease {and launch you to the top of Santa’s nice list}!

Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Last Minute Part 1
From left to right.

Forever 21 Pull-Through Faux Fur Scarf in Cream / Brown; $14.80
Marc by Marc Jacobs Katie Bunny iPhone Case in Ultra Pink; $48.00
NARS Andy Warhol Beautiful Darling Gift Set; $49.00
Justin Bieber Girlfriend Gift Set; $55.00
Target x Neiman Marcus Collection Derek Lam Slippers; $49.99
Madewell Brightside Sweater in Bright Berry; $88.00
Target x Neiman Marcus Collection Diane von Furstenberg Yoga Mat; $49.99
Kate Spade New York Sprinkles Lip Crayons {Set of 3} in Multi; $38.00



Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Last Minute Part 2
From left to right

Laura Mercier Laura Mercier 'Le Petit Patisserie - Almond Coconut Milk' Quartet; $50.00
La Mer Collections Limited Edition Zebra Wrap Watch in Black / Gold; $125.00
SEPHORA COLLECTION IZAK Brush Set; $38.00
Target Blue / Silver Stone Big Short Necklace; $14.99
Target x Neiman Marcus Collection Tory Burch Printed Beverage Container; $24.99
Lancome Glamorous in Red Lip Essentials Collection; $39.50
Disney Cinderella Collection by Sephora Disney’s Cinderella Collector’s Set; $125.00
mark Deco-Elegance Earrings; $18.00


Don't Miss Cafe Fashionista's Previous Holiday Gift Guides:
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $100
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $75
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $50
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: For the Boys
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $25
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Stocking Stuffers


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12.18.2012

Holiday Style Guide 2012: Festive Flats

Holiday Style Guide 2012: Festive Flats
From Left to Right

Show off your holiday spirit in festive flats that are comfy, devastatingly charming, and oh-so sparkly!

Sole Society SADIE Satin Stud Flat in Steel Blue
Messeca New York Jacqueline Ballet Flats in Black
Jeffrey Campbell Daisy Age Flat in Ivory / Gold
Sam Edelman Felicia Glitter Ballet Flats in Gold Glitter
MOSSIMO Valerie Blingy Flat in Rose Gold
Stuart Weitzman Studded Smoking Shoes in Black
Madewell The Sidewalk Skimmer in Hematite Glitter
Rachel Roy Lane Lace Menswear Flats in White / Nude


Don't Miss Cafe Fashionista's Previous Holiday Style Guides:
Holiday Style Guide 2012: Statement-Making Sparklers
Holiday Style Guide 2012: Holiday Heels
Holiday Style Guide 2012: Blinged Out Beauty
Holiday Style Guide 2012: Rock the Festive Frock
Holiday Style Guide 2012: Party Purses


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12.17.2012

NOTD: Nubar Baby Blue


This is two coats of NUBAR Baby Blue. Icy Pastel Baby Blue.

The only pastel nail color I will usually wear during the winter is mint green; but I fell in love with the wintery vibe of this baby blue. The frosty shading reminded me so much of December scenery, and is just gorgeous on. The application of Baby Blue was incredible – no drip, no glop…just smooth coats to create perfect opacity. If you, like me, love mint green nail colors {i.e. Essie Mint Candy Apple}, you will adore this baby blue twist.

DUPE ALERT: This is an exact dupe of Chanel Riva, from the Côte d'Azur Collection – which was huge during the 2010 – 2011 runway season; so if you missed out on Riva then {or simply didn’t want to pay upwards of $25 for a bottle} this is a great frugal find!

Accessories: Pearlescent Love Ring Set in Silver / Clear via Forever 21.

What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?

Follow me on Instagram @cafefashionista to see more of my favorite nail colors / art.


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12.16.2012

Fierce Fashion from Tidestore: Glamorous Solid Color Bag Review


My personal style is undeniably feminine {with the occasional tomboy tendency}, catering to heels {3-inches and up everyday}; pastel colors; and a revolving door of skinny jeans in a variety of washes. Nevertheless, I have always been intrigued by the smoldering, dark mystique of Alexander McQueen’s collection of skull accessories; so, when Tidestore offered me the opportunity to select any item {priced at $25 and under} from their shop, my eyes landed on the Glamorous Solid Color Bag and never strayed. After {finally} making its way through customs, the bag landed in my hands, and I can officially say that it was well worth the wait. Not to mention {seriously} swoon-worthy, and my new BFF for this season’s holiday party scene!

THINGS I LOVE
The lightly-quilted, black-on-black chevron-design construction of the box clutch is the perfect feminine juxtaposition to the edginess of the skull detailing.
The finger knuckle duster clasp! Each of the four finger holds highlights a different motif – a large skull, an oversized black gemstone, a small skull, and a teeny tiny skull on a small bouquet of flowers. Together they create the perfect Tim Burton-esque edge.
The hematite-colored hardware paired with the black of the box clutch is the ultimate in glamour, and looks incredible coupled with party frocks; but it also looks amazing {and serves as a total conversation-starter} when worn with cropped denim, slouchy knits, and pointy-toed pumps for a more dressed-down look {P.S. I can attest to this, as I styled it this way on Friday when I met up with my BFF’s for brunch and shopping!}.

How would you style Tidestore’s Glamorous Solid Color Bag? If you were given $25 to spend at Tidestore, what would you buy?





FTC Disclosure: The Tidestore Glamorous Solid Color Bag was sent to me for review. All opinions expressed therein are my own.
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12.15.2012

{Simply Be} Have A Trendy Christmas!

Thank you to Simply Be for providing the ultra-glamorous holiday style/beauty guide below!

Christmas may be a time for family, friends and forgetting the diet, but it is also a time for looking fabulous! So cast that dodgy onesie aside - from Christmas Eve to the New Year’s party, here’s your comprehensive guide to enjoying the four days of festive fun in style.

CHRISTMAS EVE


For some of us, Christmas Eve is the calm before the storm; a chance to relax before the commotion of Christmas takes over. But for others, it is the storm!

You might be heading out to that annual family Christmas party, ready to dazzle all those aunts, cousins and people you’d swear you’ve never met before by looking even better than you did last year. Or perhaps drinks with friends are on the cards? Will you be out on the town, partying like you don’t have to entertain your Nan from 9am the next morning…?

Whatever you’re up to, it’s a great idea to go smart and sophisticated. After all, Christmas Eve deserves a sense of occasion, but there’ll be plenty of time to descend into the slightly dubious depths of Christmas jumper territory tomorrow! Mid-length dresses in neutral colours are perfect, but neutral doesn’t mean you can’t have the glam factor! Look out for cream or champagne pieces with subtle sparkle, lace or fringing detail – all will have you on the fast track to elegance.

With a look this gorgeous, it’d be a shame to do anything other than full-on glamour when it comes to hair. Opt for a Bardot-inspired top knot and add a sparkly clip for party perfection!

Keep your make-up light and neutral (may as well make the most of that fresh face before Christmas’s excesses kick in!) but feel free to add red lippie if you want to get really glam.


CHRISTMAS DAY


Christmas day is a balancing act if ever there was one! You want to look fabulous but all that Christmas dinner needs to go somewhere! The answer is to opt for a classic outfit in a clever cut which skims your tummy and leaves you room to really get cosy with that glass of Bucks Fizz. An empire or A-line dress is ideal; look out for one with beaded detail to the neck to add the wow factor. Otherwise you can glam your dress up beautifully with glitzy accessories – chandelier earrings are perfect for the day’s festive spirit.

We can’t pretend it doesn’t exist: your Christmas jumper is dying for an outing, and why the hell not? Embrace its embarrassing snowman, revel in its ridiculous reindeer, just balance out the pensioner-chic with a flattering pair of jeans and the fashion world will forgive you.

You’ll likely be pushed for time in the morning (read: you won’t be able to stay away from your presents for long) so a hairstyle that is simple yet gorge is just what you need. Wash your hair the night before to save hassle, then use a festive headband to bring the glitz! Either tie you hair in a low bun and pull out some pretty face-framing whisps, or let your locks flow free in a tousled style. Just use a flexible hairspray and if your hair decides to misbehave during the day it won’t matter, in fact, it’ll just add to your look!

When choosing your makeup look, bear in mind that there’ll be cameras present! Cheat your mum’s photo album out of a few cringe-inducing snaps by opting for a timeless style – perhaps best to sidestep this season’s penchant for mulberry-coloured lips and jewel-encrusted brows then, yes? A pink glossy lip is always a winner, and by avoiding dark colours you won’t get any lipstick disasters as you wolf down your fair share of mince pies.


BOXING DAY


And relax! Boxing day is all about lazing around, not doing a lot except perhaps dragging yourself out of the house for a walk, and generally enjoying a day off that frankly no one knows what to do with. Since you’ll be spending the majority of the day in front of the TV - who could resist a cheesy film about that jolly neighbour who turns out to be Santa? – you’ll need to go for comfort, but there’s no need to let style fall by the wayside.

Set the tone for your cosy day by pulling on chunky knits. Faux fur trims, elbow patches and oversized jumpers and cardies are big news this season, and for even more fashion points wear your comfy pick with a pair of leather jeans. Baroque prints are in, and their regal colours and opulent embellishments are perfect for the occasion, so why not look out for jumpers with foil prints or jacquard patterns?

A knit looks best with laid-back hair and natural makeup, so create some loose waves in your hair with a large barrel tong, treat your skin to a light tinted moisturiser, dust on a tiny bit of blusher and you’re good to go – all the way to the sofa!


NEW YEAR’S EVE


Tonight will be all about no holds barred glamour! Whether you’re gracing several bars with your presence, or sticking to one party till the wee hours, we’ve got you covered. And we’ll show you how to avoid some likely mishaps on the way.

Get ready for the night ahead with sexy shapewear to give you a figure to die for, then show off those gorgeous curves with an elegant but suitably dazzling dress. The 1920s are a big influence on party fashion at the moment, so let the glamour and fun of the era guide you towards beautiful beading, shimmering sequins and feathery fringing. This look provides you with the perfect opportunity to wear a statement headpiece – how about a sequinned headband? – or go for ultra-glossy waves with a deep side parting to channel Hollywood glamour.

Makeup should be seriously smouldering on New Year’s Eve. Smokey eyes and nude or red lips are perfect, but to make sure your look will last way past midnight, you’ll need a few tips: Go for waterproof mascara, a 24-hour base with primer to help it go the distance, and long-lasting non-smudge lipstick – remember there’ll be 12 o’clock kisses aplenty!

Bring along a few handbag essentials to stay glam and comfortable all night: clear nail varnish is essential for stopping any nicks in your tights turning into full-on ladders, and a pack of blister plasters is perfect for when your new shoes – which you will have inevitably forgotten to wear in beforehand – start to rub.

Finally, you can expect the paparazzi (aka your mates wielding cameras) to be out in full force tonight, so keep a compact mirror in your bag for touch ups. This way, you won’t spend half the night queuing for the loos just to make sure they don’t snap you with a first class hair don’t!





FTC Disclosure: This post was written in partnership with Simply Be. The editorial and photographic content herein was provided by Simply Be.
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12.14.2012

Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $100

If you seek splendor, take a peek at these pretty little luxuries – all priced at $100 and under, and capable of making the receiver jump for {holiday} joy!

Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $100
From left to right.

Juicy Couture Faux Fur Earmuff Headphones in Natural; $98.00
Lulu Frost Hestia Stud Earrings in Crystal; $96.00
Kate Spade New York Coin A Phrase – Shoe Fund Coin Purse in Black; $78.00
TOPSHOP Mirrored Zebras Sweater in Black; $84.00
Minnetonka Double Fringe Boot in Brown Suede; $99.95
Club Monaco Lois Glove; $90.00
Burberry Purse Charm Lip Gloss; $85.00
J. Crew Enameled Zebra Bangle in Black; $98.00



Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $100 Part 2
From left to right

Juicy Couture Tech Gloves and 4 / 4S Case in Pink Cerise; $78.00
Vince Camuto Metallic Dot Jacquard Blouse in Rich Black; $99.00
J. Crew Fair Isle Leggings in Navy Brick; $98.00
Target x Neiman Marcus Collection Altuzarra Tray; $79.99
Marc Jacobs Dot Fragrance Set; $92.00
Alexis Bittar Crystal Encrusted Rose Gold Teardrop Earrings; $95.00
Sam Edelman Felicia Glitter Ballet Flats in Gold Glitter; $90.00
Target x Neiman Marcus Collection Skaist-Taylor Vest; $79.99


Don't Miss Cafe Fashionista's Previous Holiday Gift Guides:
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $75
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $50
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: For the Boys
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Under $25
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Stocking Stuffers


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12.13.2012

Cafe Fashionista on Pish Posh Perfect!


A few weeks ago the super-stylish {and sweet} Kim of Pish Posh Perfect invited me to take part in her monthly Savvy Style Chat {an offer that I simply could not refuse}, and today it officially went live on her blog a la Savvy Style Chat {Erika Sorocco of Cafe Fashionista}.

Kim did such an incredible job putting this feature together {which includes an interview with yours truly, and a handful of my personal style shots}, and I hope that you will all check it out {either to learn more about me, or simply to discover a truly amazing blog}.

Thank you so much, Kim!


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