Monday, November 29, 2010

You've Got Mail!

I opened my mailbox and there it was, my prizes from the lovely Chelsea at Zipped that I won in her recent giveaway! I was ecstatic and ripped it all open (ever so gently!) to take a peek at my gifts. It was packaged so sweetly... baby pink tissue paper with an adorable note attached to it. Inside was a lovely dark-silver necklace, the cutest Fossil ID-case embellished with flowers, a Starbucks card, and last but not least a cozy knit hat made by her! I absolutely am in love with all of it and so thankful I won the giveaway!

Of course I took photos! Excuse my chipped manicure..



A big big thank you to Chelsea! You are seriously a doll. Thank you so much darling!

Friday, November 26, 2010

Share the La La


You've all heard of these sites - amazingly discounted sales on fabulous designers. Welp, here's me inviting anyone who'd like join to the infamous Rue La La! Rue La La is an exclusive, invitation-only site where the members can shop around at private sales, each boutique open for a couple of days. Membership is free, but invitation-only!

Some of the fab boutiques up now: Nicole Miller, Lucky Brand, Slane, Hanky Panky, and Herve Chapelier. So what are you waiting for, my darlings?! Click the following link to receive your invite!



*Image courtesy of Rue La La Facebook page

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Boot Evnvy

If it were my choice (and not my money) all of these babies would be lined up in rows in my spare room!
I am DROOLING over these boots. Seriously, someone get me a towel.

Suedette Ankle Bootie
$35 - forever21.com
High heel booties »

Pam Project 99144
$154 - lorisshoes.com
Booties shoes »

Claudia Fur Bootie
$1,560 - kirnazabete.com
Platform boots »

Prada Metal Harness Bootie
$1,100 - neimanmarcus.com
Booties shoes »

Confluence Boot
$55 - modcloth.com
Ankle boots »

CO-OP Barneys New York Studded Wrap Knee Boot
$449 - barneys.com
High heel boots »


PS: Hoping you all had a lovely Thanksgiving and are now filled to the brim with yummy foods!




Monday, November 22, 2010

Come and Rest Your Bones with Me

Testing out my middle part! I woke up with my hair looking like this and I don't want to fuss with it for fear of it crumbling. Or something like that.

Currently...

...Wearing: top: Forever 21, dress: Velvet, tights: Betsey Johnson, shoes: Asos

...Listening to: Secret by Maroon 5

...Drinking: cafe mocha, mmm!

...Craving: a blueberry muffin, a small shopping trip to Marshall's or TJ Maxx.

...Hating: my computer that is driving me up a freaking wall! Can't wait for my Macbook!

...Loving: my newly achieved 100+ followers! Welcome new ones, and thank you old ones for supporting my blog and always leaving the sweetest comments!




PS: Make sure you all check out my first ever guest post for Calico! So exciting! Comment on the post with your thoughts on my choices and I will absolutely love you forever!

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Christmas Wishlist

Christmas time is here! Well, it will be soon enough! And if you're anything like me, I'm sure you all have had your wishlists growing ever since August! Here are the things I want and probably won't get, but I'll have my eye on them after Christmas, excited to have money to spend on these lovely items!

What's the number 1 item on your Christmas Wishlist?
 

Christmas Wishlist


Christmas Wishlist by theaimeeshow featuring double breasted jackets

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Giftgirls and Sherry Lou!

I am always, always willing to support anything made by my fellow, lovely bloggers! You all are so creative and fantastic, it blows my mind. If only I had half the talent!

First up on the brag list is Giftgirls! I found her store through her blog - it's quite the lovely little online store that sells rings, necklaces, bracelets, and hair accessories. They've got everything from cute vintage-styled jewelry to pretty bobby pins with flowers and such. If you haven't checked out their online store, you must right now! Go go go!

I saw that they made scrabble rings and knew immediately that I had to get one that was my initial! So I did. It came in the mail in the cutest little packaging - a little blue box (Tiffany's, anyone? so cute!) and a bow.

And now on to the next purchase - Sherry Lou! Their clothing is created by the two girls, Jennifer and Sherry, two sisters from San Diego,CA. They have absolutely wonderful one-of-a-kind lace tops, over-sized tunic sweaters, and more. Again, I found their hand-made creations through the girls' lovely blog, Jennifer and Sherry. And did I mention how sweet they are?! Check out both their blog and their Ebay store!

I bought their vintage-styled lace top, and I absolutely adore it! From the cute little buttons on the sleeves to the length of the top, it is seriously freaking fabulous. By the way, pay no mind to my knobby knees! I couldn't be bothered to put any tights on.


Tuesday, November 16, 2010

7 DIY Spa Treatments: Thanksgiving Edition

We all know that the Thanksgiving leftovers last at least a week after the holiday is over, and we don't want all of that to go to waste! And since you won't be tempted to chow down on these (mostly unhealthy) foods, I found this article on Real Beauty and decided to share it with you all so you can try these spa-like treatment ideas and indulge your body to some calorie-free loving!

*Brought to you by Real Beauty

Leftover: Pumpkins

DIY Recipe: Pumpkin Face Mask 
Pumpkin is rich in zinc, which helps purify oily, blemished complexions. Pumpkin enzymes also work to gently exfoliate the skin without any abrasive particles.

What You'll Need:
2 tablespoons raw pumpkin, (finely grated), 1 egg white, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon tomato juice, (or 1/2 teaspoon tomato puree).

Method and Application:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, stir well or blend using a stick blender. Apply the mask in a thick layer all over the cleansed face, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.


Leftover: Pumpkin Puree

DIY Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Pedicure
Since pumpkin is chock full of good-for-you nutrients, it only makes sense that it would pack the same benefits for your skin. With the weather getting colder, it's a great ingredient to add to your beauty treatments since it nourishes tired and dry skin instantly, plus gives it a gorgeous healthy glow.

What You'll Need:
½ cup pumpkin puree and 1 egg. Optional ingredients: splash of milk, 1 tsp honey

Method and Application:
Mix ingredients together and apply the pumpkin masque to feet and calves. Wrap in plastic bags. Sit back and relax for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Dry off and apply a few pumps of your favorite moisturizer or lotion (try a Vanilla scent) to keep feet and calves silky-smooth and hydrated. Cut and file nails as desired.

Ed note: This recipe is best applied after using an exfoliating scrub on your feet and legs. To stay within the holiday spirit, we recommend Burt's Bees Cranberry & Pomegranate Sugar Scrub, $13, burtsbees.com



Leftover: Fresh Apples

DIY Recipe: Apple Hair Mask
To revive dry, dull hair, all you need is one big apple (you can also use two or three medium-sized apples, depending on your hair length). This mask solves dry-scalp problems such as itchiness and flakes. For best results, choose only fresh apples without any dents or flaws.

What You'll Need:
1-2 large or 3-4 medium apples, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon corn flour

Method and Application:
Peel, core, and grate the apples. Combine the grated apple with remaining ingredients and stir well. Spread the mixture over dry, unwashed hair and leave on for 20-30 minutes. You can cover your hair with a shower cap or a PVC-free food film and then wrap it with a towel. Rinse the mask off with tepid water and follow with a mild shampoo if desired.




Leftover: Brown Sugar


DIY Recipe: Luxurious Hand Softening and Conditioning Treatment
The cold weather takes a toll on hands by drying them out to the point where they start to crack and peel. Save this recipe for when skin is past the tender stage and can use some sloughing help to make them feel soft again.

What You'll Need:
1/4 cup coarse brown sugar, baby oil to make into a paste

Method and Application:
Mix together. Using a hand-washing motion, apply the mixture to the hands. Continue the washing motion for a minute, then rinse off with warm water and pat dry.


Leftover: Whole Milk


DIY Recipe: Indulgent Milk Bath
One of the absolute best skin-smoothing ingredients can be found in the dairy aisle at your supermarket, says Aaron Pahk, lead massage therapist at Hard Rock Hotel Reliquary Water Sanctuary & Spa. The lactic acid in milk softens skin better than most super-fancy potions.

What You'll Need:
A few cups of whole milk

Method:
Pour into warm water, kick back and relax. After a long soak, your skin will feel buttery soft. Plus, it's just what your body needs for some post-holiday TLC.


Leftover: Raw Cucumbers
DIY Recipe: Soothing Cucumber Eye Mask
Not only do cucumbers have an instant cooling effect (they're 90% water), but they also contain an enzyme that reduces inflammation, making them a stellar remedy for eye bags, says Wendy Allred, education manager at Bliss Spas.

What You'll Need:
A chilled cucumber straight from the refrigerator.

Method and Application:
Cut a few slices, around a quarter-inch thick, and put one on each eye. Or you can chop them up and roll the pieces into a paper-towel eye pack. Leave on for 5-10 minutes, and feel free to swap out the slices or pack for a cooler, fresh one along the way.


Leftover: Butternut Squash



DIY Recipe: Brightening Butternut Squash Enzyme Mask
This great mask works like a scrub to exfoliate without being abrasive to your skin. Butternut squash is high in vitamins A and C and zinc, and can brighten, heal, and protect your skin from free radicals, all while gently dissolving dead skin cells.

What You'll Need:
1 raw egg and 1 cup cooked butternut squash. (Optional Ingredients include papaya, honey, apple cider or cranberry juice.)

Method and Application:
Adding an egg to the mask helps bind the ingredients together, as well as nourishing and lifting the skin. Whisk together about 1/2 cup of the squash and the egg (feel free to use pumpkin, either fresh or canned, for this recipe!). How to customize your mask: For more exfoliation: Add 2/3 cup fresh mashed papaya. The additional enzymes will dissolve dead skin on the spot, leaving you fresh and glowing. For dry skin: Add a tablespoon of honey, which acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin. For oily skin: Mix in a tablespoon of apple cider or cranberry juice for a toning astringent effect. Slather the mixture on your face in a fairly thick layer. Avoid the eye area. You'll feel some light tingling as the enzymes gently exfoliate the top layer of skin. Leave the mask on for 10-20 minutes and rinse off with warm water and a washcloth.




Let me know if you'll be trying any of these out! And if you do, make sure you write back with results :)

Liner Loser

I'm a complete moron when it comes to eyeliner. I don't like regular liner and it's extremely rare that I use it. For special occasions, I'll use my Bare Essentials smokey eye kit in which the mineral liner color is a dark gray. It's a loose powder, so it's fine if it's a bit messy and not a perfect line.

The perfect line... this is where I get all fussy and give up on liquid liners. I used to paint all the time several years ago, but ever since I've stopped, I now have a serious case of the shaky hand, especially when applying any kind of color to my face. Well, to make a long story short, I decided that a cream eyeliner might be the best bet for me. I searched up and down the aisles at Target this afternoon checking out every single brand and every single shadow, looking for the perfect color and consistency. I'm picky. I ended up purchasing L'Oreal Pariz HiP Color Truth Cream Eyeliner in 930 Brown. I suppose it will take a while for me to get the hang of using the brush, though it is so much easier than any other kind of eyeliner I've used, whether it's a pencil or the liquid eyeliner applicators.

By the way - I didn't even notice before buying this that this one was missing it's "professional brush" that was supposed to be included in the package! BOGUS! At least I already had an angled eyeliner brush at home... Poo oh you, Target!


Proud to Present: Sophie Monet

I was ecstatic to discover Sophie Monet's jewelry line when I stumbled upon some of her stuff from the Planet Blue blog. I immediately fell in love! The earthy feel to the pieces are exquisite and they are some serious statement pieces. The way she describes the process of making jewelry that stays connected to the earth is simply fantastic.You can read the entire description on her website.

Her collection is available at Planet Blue, so check it out! Here are some of my favorite pieces from her line:

I emailed her after I found her line and she got back to me almost immediately and was such a sweetie! She was happy to answer some of the questions I had for her, so here are her answers! 


What inspired you to begin making your jewelry?
I began making jewelry two summers ago after I moved back to LA from New York. I wanted to have my own stand at different flea markets around Los Angeles so I bought up a storm of vintage clothes and started to slightly alter and hem the clothes, then as a component I would sell jewelry along side. The wood Jewelry took off after the summer ended and I started to spend more time in my dad’s wood shop and experiment with different tools. I realized this could really become a business, if I wanted it to be.

Who are your influences?
A lot of different people influence me, when people tell me their stories of how they got to be where they are. I know it may sound cheesy but it sort of gives me that little mental push I need to be like “ok if they can do it, so can I”. Artistically I get inspired by things I see daily; jewelry on other people or a pattern on a shirt. I also get inspired from ancient artifacts and jewelry, Egyptian shapes and hieroglyphics. Its all in nature and history.

What’s your current obsession?
My dog Rocky and key chains. Everyone needs a good key chain. I bought a glow in the dark resin cube that has a real beetle stuck inside it on the Venice boardwalk. It’s sort of gross but amazing.

When you were young, what did you want to be when you grow up?
I wanted to be in a band with my sister. We would write songs together on family vacations and wanted to be like Hanson.

What have you done today?
I went to the beach with my best friend Sophia and watched her catch the wave of her life.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
To stay positive, and try the best I can. To put everything into perspective and remember that most of the time it’s not the end of the world, unless we let it be.

Monday, November 15, 2010

LiLo, You Forgot Your Pants!

I'm always up for leggings over pants, but not tights! Lindsay, Lindsay, Lindsay... The poor girl never knew what would become of her as she was settling in for her role as two deceiving little twins on The Parent Trap.

Here's a photo of her from earlier this year in February. Dark hair doesn't suit her. She looks cracked out. We all knew she was headed down a dark road, clearly ignoring all of the STOP and CAUTION signs plastered on the sides of the road. But she skipped down it, whether it was her own choice or others.


Here's a photo of her snapped four days ago, looking a bit cheerful and less of an orange skin-tone, heading out for coffee out of her sober-living home in Rancho Mirage, California. At least she's chosen coffee over her previous additions...

*Photos courtesy of The Skinny Website

Whether it's for the media or for herself, at least she's trying (read: pretending?) to get healthier. No matter what you say about the girl, there's a huge controversy over her and her drug use. What are your thoughts on the gal?