We’ve decided to take on this challenge and dip-dye my hair, mermaid style (beware brunettes, you’ll have to commit to a minor bleach job).  My freshly bleached tips went from purple to blue to green, giving me a cool hued rainbow effect, without going too crazy.  Since April is all about being conscious of the environment and the products we use, go with Manic Panic, a cruelty free and vegan hair dye.  Check out the final result:

For more of our favorite rainbow tipped hair styles, check the gallery below as well as our feature from last fall when we first spotted the trend.  Lauren Conrad’s beauty blog, The Beauty Department also give pretty good instructions on how to get the dye job done.  Send in your results to beauty@fashionindie.com and we’ll tweet the pictures out!

The red of next spring is primarily bold. Think fire trucks and Louboutin soles.

In contrast to this past spring's tangerine, this orange has gone pumpkin, with reddish bronze undertones.

Just shy of neon, this near-blinder shows hints of marigold. It's vibrant and saturated, ready to tackle any busy print in a fight for loudness.

Green is feeling minty fresh. The pastel finish is crisp and clean.

True blue is blowing up cobalt. There's a great depth in this striking color.

Baby got back to the hue of blue that kisses the sky through a layer of mist.

Lavender sweeps in with an essence of calm. The color is regal, light as a princess (not nearly as light at Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge - skinny bid).

 Who says yellow has to be mellow?

She approached her textile designer, Suki Cheema, with the beet juice stained paper towel and said she wanted that color exactly. The icon of wrap dress ingenuity, DVF has shown even her textile designer, and now us, that we can find the perfect hue anywhere. Keep your eyes peels, and your vegetables, for the next best colors to wear.

Get that beet sweet dress from Diane Von Furstenberg. It’s the new quicker picker upper.

Link Love: The Cut

Add some color in your rubbery life… just make sure to write a note to self and make sure they’re not used and remember this dress might be filled with awesomeness but it doesn’t prevent pregnancies.

baby proof yourself and buy one : adrianabertini.com.br

With September right around the corner, it’s time to kiss the bright lip shades of summer goodbye. But what colors could possibly replace those neon reds and hot pinks that make summer beauty so fun? Don’t slip into a beauty depression – check out three new amazing lipstick shades that will get you through the season in style:

Fall 2010 shows, like Peter Som’s (above, at left) saw some deep purple, almost black, lips. While that doesn’t exactly translate to everyday life (unless you work at a voodoo shop), you can go goth-lite with the trend using Fresh Sugar Plum Lip Treatment SPF 15 ($22.50). The shade looks deep purple in the tube, but glides on to a sheer berry, so it’s totally office appropriate.

We’ve been loving Maybelline’s ColorSensational ($7.49) line of lipsticks since it hit stores a few months ago, and the Red Revival shade is the ideal crimson for the cooler months, just like the one seen in Donna Karan’s runway show. This moisturizing lipstick is easy to apply and the rich color, though not for the shy, will make you want to grab a camel coat and some leather riding boots. It’s autumn in a tube.

Yet, for every bold red or purple lip that marched down the fall runways, there was a nude, almost matte, pout to counter it, like the ones at Alexander Wang.  Go Ali MacGraw circa ”Love Story” with Revlon’s Colorstay Mineral Lipglaze in Timeless Nude ($6.74), a natural color with a hint of pink that looks good on all skin tones and won’t wash you out.

Looking to fill the rest of your makeup bag? Check out our guides for the best mascaras, lip balms, and eyeshadows.

Related posts:

1. A Rich Leather Satchel That Looks Like It’s Straight Out Of Gossip Girl I don’t know about you, but my budget for leather…
2. Best Find Of The Day: Trouve Sandals That Look Straight Off The Runway   I’m obsessed with these Trouve ‘Trina’ sandals: they look…
3. Super Sexy Topshop Platform Heels That Look Straight From The Runway Super sexy heels never go out of style, and…

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As you can see in the pictures, I tore into the new Shiseido Strata BR 307 Luminizing Satin Eye Color Trio as soon as I got it, before taking photos and swatching. It was so silky and easy to wear I just couldn’t wait. The set has quickly become part of my regular rotation because it’s such a basic and classic combination that goes everywhere and doesn’t require any effort or too much thought- it’s August, after all and I’ve been keeping some atrocious hours, not to mention my two year old niece is visiting. So elaborate makeup has been out of the question lately.

The simple sophistication of these Shiseido colors has been perfect. The Luminizing Satinn eye shadows have the smoothest possible texture. They blend like cream, so they are essentially mistake proof (important when you do your makeup at 4 AM). The pigments are rich, so even the lightest color in the trio shows up nicely and gives good highlighting. Strata (BR 307) is mostly in the neutral brown range, and while there are gold undertones, on my skin it’s not too yellow- even the middle color. You can also see photos and swatches on a different skin color by Christine of Temptalia here. They look good on sunny summer days, but would also go well with fall wardrobes, making this trio very useful and an excellent choice for the season.

Bottom Line: a staple.

Shiseido Strata BR 307 Luminizing Satin Eye Color Trio ($33) is available from most decent department stores as well as from Sephora.

All photos are mine.

Copyright ©2006-2010 Gaia Fishler, The Non-Blonde. Content poaching is both illegal and ugly.

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Want to steal Rihanna’s green and yellow eye makeup look? I’ve got a break down for you! Plus the colors used will look great on all shades of brown skin. It’s basically a win-win situation.

1. As always, beautiful makeup starts with beautiful skin. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize skin according to your skin type.

2. Since several colors are involved with this look and eyeshadow fall-out is possible, let’s do the eyes first. Apply an eyeshadow base like MAC Paint Pot or Urban Decay Primer Potion. Grab a green with golden sheen eyeshadow like MAC Eyeshadow in Swimming (or if you want something a bit lighter try MAC Eyeshadow in Juxt) and blend it on the bottom portion of the lid. Use an eyeshadow brush like MAC #224 for a smooth and blended application.

Next take a matte deep plum shadow like MAC Eyeshadow in Shadowy Lady and in a windshield-like motion, apply it into the crease. Try a crease brush like MAC #217.

For your brow bone highlight, try a shimmery golden eyeshadow like MAC Eyeshadow in All That Glitters or try a matte eyeshadow (or even concealer) 2-3 shades lighter than your skin tone—this will give you a great defined look.

Line eyes with a black eyeliner pencil. For a pencil that lasts even through sweat and tears, try Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes Pencil in 01 Mat Black. For a little drama, use a liquid liner like Urban Decay Liquid Liner on the top lash line and allow it to extend a little past the outer corners of the eyes. Hold the liner wand at a 15 degree angle or use the edge of a business card to help guide you.

Now take a pencil brush like MAC #219 and dip it into the green shadow shade and carefully line underneath your bottom waterline (the area underneath your bottom lashes) about half-way of the length of your eye. Then take a shimmery golden yellow-green eyeshadow like MAC Eyeshadow in Bitter and apply it along the other half of the bottom lash area as well as in the inner corners of the eyes. Apply two to three coats of mascara. Clean up any fallout or mistakes with a Q-tip dipped in water or eye makeup remover.

3. Apply liquid foundation using a foundation brush like MAC #190 or a makeup wedge. Be sure to blend all the way to the hair line, by the ears, and by the neck to avoid foundation mask. Set with a loose powder like Becca Fine Loose Finishing Powder using a fluffy brush like MAC #187. Some liquid foundations to try: Black Opal True Color Liquid Foundation, Face Atelier Ultra Foundation for Women of Color, Make Up For Ever Face & Body, Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation.

4. For the cheeks, apply a bright orange blush (don’t be scared—the pigments in our skin look best in brighter blush colors and if applied with a light hand will look gorgeous) like Cargo Blush in Laguna. If you went a little overboard with the blush, that’s nothing a dusting of loose powder can’t fix.

5. For the lips, try a Barbie pink lipstick like MAC Viva Glam Gaga Lipstick. As tough of a shade as it may look, it actually works through the spectrum of our skin tones. Still not feeling it? Grab a nude lip or be bold and rock a red lip.

6. To add radiance to the skin (or to help avoid “powder face”) give your face a spritz of MAC Fix+ Spray. Or if you have trouble getting your makeup to stay put, try Urban Decay De Slick Makeup Setting Spray.

Tools of the Trade:

More M·A·C…

And that’s that! Who’s trying this look?

~Danielle

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If you’re color-shy when it comes to makeup, but still a bit intrigued by less “practical” hues, you probably have seen the sea foam trend once or twice. After all, sea foam nails are totally in right now, even if you personally haven’t worked up the nerve to ask for it during your next manicure… but aside from wearing the shade on your hands and feet, sea foam is popping up on peepers as well. The color is unexpectedly easy to wear because it’s not too bold like neon, yet still stands out and makes brown and hazel eyes totally sparkle. But be careful — just because it’s “in” doesn’t mean it’s chic to overdo it; for example, a dramatic sea foam “smoky eye” is best left to the runway, or to Mimi from “The Drew Carey Show.” Stick to just sea foam liner — or even a little shimmer if you’re feeling daring — and more played-down shadow paired with an otherwise neutral-hued face for a fresh pop of color that doesn’t look too garish, or too 80s for that matter!

Clockwise from top-left: Stila Eye Shadow Duo in Kajiki, Essie Nail Polish Resort Collection in Turquoise & Caicos, Shiseido Hydro
Powder Eye Shadow in Aqua Shimmer, and Chanel Le Crayon Yeux Precision Eye Definer in Seafoam.

- Alex Gambardella

Save on Sea Foam Eyeshadow at Sephora from TheFind.com’s coupon site

Guest post from my friends at The Find!

©2010 Hot Beauty Health. All Rights Reserved.

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I have an affinity for the color red. Red shoes, red bags, red lipstick and most importantly the red dress. Red is the power color that looks good on most people.  It's a shame that many women are scared to wear this color in fear of being labeled a tramp.  I came across a red strapless gown by Brian Reyes that stopped me dead in my tracks.  The sculpted silk maxi dress is a modern take on the Pretty Woman dress.  The corset-style cup, asymmetrical flounce hem and tonal piping at the seams are sexy but sophisticated at the same time.  The Brian Reyes Corset Strapless Gown is for the twenty-something or thirty-something woman who wants to have fun turning heads at a gala or evening affair.

You need confidence to wear such a statement making dress.  When wearing a dress like this you have to be mindful of a few things:

• Less is more so keep accessories to a minimum. Chandelier earrings or a statement necklace, not both.
• Red goes with both gold and silver. Make sure you choose the tone that works best with your complexion.
• Keep the hair pulled back in a chic updo or go Cali girl chic with a low ponytail.  Opting for voluminous curls or waves will be total overkill.
• Your makeup should compliment the dress. Go for nude lips with a smoky eye or neutral eyes with a bit of shimmer and a berry lip.
• Shapewear is your best friend so embrace it. A strapless toning slip or DKNY smoothies will be the key to smoothing those problem areas. 

LINK LOVE:Lady in Red | Brian Reyes Corset Strapless Gown

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Summer polo matches like last week’s Cartier International usually call for a uniform of khaki suits and lightweight gray wool, which tends to produce solid results. Sir Kingsley gets this week’s prize for bucking the trend with a powder-blue blazer, a midnight-blue shirt and weather-defying black pants.

The cotton blazer is as close to a summer staple as you get, but one in this color is a lot harder to pull off than it looks, and pairing it with ink-black pants is the kind of sartorial vision that takes you beyond the basics. Nicely done, sir.

—R.B.

LINK LOVE:Kempt Man of the Hour: Ben Kingsley

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Romance in Paris is the first thought that comes to mind when I saw this lovely sleeveless best red dress by Chez Kevito. Red Lace, Red Ruffles, Red Roses, and Red Sheer, what more could a lady ask for in a red dress. The designer has shared with us this tidbit “I used the following link to determine the shade of red of the dress:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Shades_of_red
I think it’s somewhere between lust and lava”

Isn’t the WikiPedia a helpful template when determining what red we have the “hots” for?!

Coloring: Warm reds like Lust and Lava go great with Brown skin that has red or golden undertones, Light or Pale skin with Peach or Gold undertones will also find that this Red helps to bring out their color.

Shape: Apples, Hourglass and Tube/Banana shapes will find that this helps to flatter their shapes.

Event: Museum opening, a date…in Paris, or anywhere, when you want to feel pretty, wedding, bridesmaid, Sunday brunch

LINK LOVE:Chez Kevito – The Best Red Dress Review

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Next, Stephanie says, “Do you know where I can find the outfit Monica is wearing?”

It’s hard to see her exact outfit with all the writing on the picture, but you can get a similar look by pairing a pair of Joseph Altuzarra sandals with the following separates:

More Asos…

Sahran says, “I would love to know the designer of Queen Latifah’s white gown that she wore at the end of the BET awards and where it can be purchased.”

Endless searches turned up no results for the exact designer of Queen’s dress, but you can get a similar look with this $170 long dress by Yigal Azrouel:

It has a similar loose silhouette, long hem, and color. Get yours here. Another option would be to pair a Dolman or Batwing sleeve white jersey top with a fluid jersey maxi skirt:

More Asos…

In a wardrobe query, Theresa says, “I’m looking for leggings as funky and eclectic as these!”


” Any suggestions please?”
Yup! I found you printed leggings in an assortment of patterns and colors:

More Asos…

And lastly, Miriam says, “I am on the quest to find “The Right” birthday dress. I haven’t had much luck and have not found a dress with that “It” factor! You know the one that says,”Look at me! I’m someone special!” *smiles* I NEED your help finding the perfect dress. I recently saw a GORGEOUS gold and black tiger stripe sequins dress on Fashion Bombshell of the Day Ayana from Baltimore.”

” Can you tell me where I can find that dress or something similar or just something FIERCE for a CURVY girl like me??? BTW, I wear a US 16 and XL. Thank you.”

Hey! You can get a similar look in this $139 Gorro Palace dress by Diane von Furstenberg:

Or indulge in any of these animal print head turners that go up to a size 16:

More Lipsy…

If you’re looking for more cute birthday dresses for a voluptuous build, check out www.monifc.com and www.jibrionline.com. They have great choices and lovely convertible dresses that will make you look bomb on your birthday. If anything, Ayana, write in and tell us where you got your tiger print sizzler!
That does it for today!
Have great weekends!

LINK LOVE:Mail Bombs: Beyonce’s Alice by Temperley Bea Romper, Monica’s Altuzarra Sandals, and Plus Size Birthday Dresses!

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Me in front of the nude mannequins, which are about to be tackled by some fierce stylist bloggers

It was an amazing day on Wednesday, when Lela Luxe competed against other celebrity fashion bloggers from New York City and California in the Charlotte Russe Mannequin Style-Off.  We each got to style our mannequin in less than 10 minutes after having ravaged through Charlotte Russe's Fall 2010 closet for another 7.  The entire event was hosted by the oh-so fabulous celebrity stylist Derek Warburton of Derek Loves Shopping. He helped us forget how hot it was, kept catty fights at bay and the atmosphere fun and “wow.”

We were each given a specific theme and we used that as a guide when going through the clothes at 100 mph.  Mine was “THE FIRST CLASS TRAVELER.”

So it's the fall, and my girl has to hop on a plane first class in a comfy, layered look.  I believe that just because you're travelling, there's no need to look like you just woke up.  So my girl sported a soft red plaid shirt, a green military inspired skirt, and sexy (and comfy) brown strappy heels (these aren't stilettos), they are cute short 1 1/2″ heels everyone will be raving about this fall.

The entire look came together with a soft olive hat and a grey handbag which has a brown handle and the chicest feminine ruffles which ties in perfectly with the jacket.

This look has one of my favorite color combinations, red and green. It also incorporates one of the most fun rules in styling–combining two different patterns (plaid and florals, in this case) while matching the color (reds).

This girl represents style.  She doesn't like to look back 5 or 10 years from now and look dated.  She loves timeless, classic fashion that will embrace her style and not fads. You'll get to see the full image on CharlotteRusse.com.  Hope you love it!

Lela Luxe is going up against some big names and would really love your support.  If you want Lela Luxe to win, please head over to CharlotteRusse.com and vote for Lela Luxe!  Not only will you be representing the classiest of fashion looks, but you'll be supporting one of your favorite blogs! Thank you to everyone who tuned into the live streaming of the mannequin face-off !

xoxo

Lela

PS. Click here to vote for lela luxe, it only takes a minute, and it’s fun!

Click Here for images of the event.  PLUS a sneak peak at the Fall 2010 Charlotte Russe collection.  You're getting to see this before everyone else!!

charlotte russe

LINK LOVE:Here’s my mannequin from the Charlotte Russe Mannequin Style-off

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Nice…..feminine and frilly.

This is another favorite….I love the “flapper” look.

Not crazy about the hat, but I love the dress!

Very interesting…it’s hard to tell what’s going on though.

Beautiful!

Another nice one…..love the color and the design. It’s dressy, but not too “serious.”

(apparelnews.net)

LINK LOVE:Hong Kong Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011

Always one for shock value, singer Fantasia made… Read more..

LINK LOVE:Celebrity Style: Fantasia Shoots Pool…In a Purple Dress?

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I honestly cannot believe it’s already July 15th. Summer is flying by. It’s basically half way through! And it feels like it just started two weeks ago! I feel like I honestly just graduated a couple of weeks ago. I was thinking time would slow way down when I graduated, but that’s not at all the case! Every single day is jam packed and I’m always constantly busy. Not that I’m complaining, I guess.. I love being busy, but I’d love to be busy and for time to slow down. Is that possible? Hehe!

currently playing:

LINK LOVE:A country road

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Fashion Bombshells—a hot, super wearable color has been making my heart go pitter-patter for quite some time now and I’m so mad I haven’t written about it yet! Bright coral. BRIGHT CORAL.

Pair this hue against anything from French Vanilla to Caramel to Chocolate to Dark Chocolate skin and you have instant hotness. Rock this color in anything from lipstick, blush, eyeshadow and nail polish.

So pics on the web of brown celebs and models rocking this gorgeous shade were scarce so you have to go with me on this one. I won’t lead you astray

Some bright corals to check out:
Blush:
MAC Creme Colour Base in Virgin Isle (available via MAC Pro)
Illamasqua Powder Blush in Tweak
Illamasqua Powder Blush in Excite
NARS Blush in Gina
Make Up For Ever Sculpting Blush #22
Make Up For Ever Powder Blush #18
Bobbi Brown Nectar Shimmer Brick

Lipstick/Gloss:
Illasmasqua Lipstick in Brink
MAC Lipstick in Jazzed
MAC Lipstick in Morange
Milani Color Perfect Lipstick in Coral Cabana
Bobbi Brown Coral Lip Quad
NARS Lipstick in Casablanca
Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks in Cabo Coral & Calypso Coral
NYX Round Lipstick in Miracle

Eyeshadow:
MAC Eyeshadow in Paradisco
Make Up For Ever Eyeshadow #5
MAC Eyeshadow in Free to Be
NYX Eyeshadow in Tropical

Nail Polish:
China Glaze Peachy Keen
E.L.F. Nail Polish in Coral
Essie Tart Deco
Essie Carousel Coral
Sephora by OPI Caliente Coral Nail Colour

So who’s rocking the corals? Spill it in the comments

~Danielle

LINK LOVE:Beauty Bomb: Rocking Bright Corals

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LINK LOVE:Sweet cherries

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Guest post from my friends at The Find!

If you’re a little wary when it comes to trying out bright beauty shades (don’t be shy, I’m with you!), but would like to be a bit more adventurous, I’ve got a color trend that’s worthy of straying from your comfort zone! Coral is the perfect summer color because it’s fun and festive. Yes, it’s bright by default, but due to the broadness of the color family, it’s practically universally flattering because it’s nearly impossible to find some form of color that doesn’t look great with your skin, from a more muted coral-pink to bold coral-tangerine. Plus, it looks great against a summer tan!

If you’re ready to jump right in to the trend, Givenchy Rouge Satin Lipstick in Tempting Coral is a bit on the pricey side, but is the perfect bright, lush shade to make your pucker really pop! For a different take on the summer glow, trade your bronzer for a cheek stain like Tarte’s version in Tipsy for a sheer wash of coral! If you still think coral is a little too intense for your face, rock it on your nails (or toes!) with a coral polish like Sephora by OPI in Special Request. Whether you’re bold or color-shy with your beauty routine, you can still find a way to incorporate coral for a fresh summer look that’s never “blah!”

- Alex Gambardella

Save on Coral Makeup at Drugstore.com from TheFind.com’s coupon site

©2010 Hot Beauty Health. All Rights Reserved.

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LINK LOVE:Brighten Up Your Beauty Look With These Coral Makeup Picks!

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With that being said, I found new ones I really like which are as follow:

This new baby I should see and try on! They come in gold, silver and black patent (Thank God!).

 Then, upon browsing Anthology's site, I came across this pair of bow and studs!

If you opt for printed ones, this is pretty good:

Lastly, leaning on a masculine side or touch, they have brogues now!

LINK LOVE:THIS IS WHY I LOVE ANTHOLOGY SHOES: Wanting more

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Yes summer time is here and though we scurry to the beach to get that nice tan, we forget the UVA/UVB rays are not our friends. Skin health always comes first so it’s best to stay out of the sun and fake it with a sunless tan. There are several great self tanning products which I’ve tested, that will give you a nice, even tan and won’t leave you looking like a carrot.

Here are my top 10 picks of the best sunless tanning products of 2010!

1. L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Any Angle Self-Tanning Spray ($9.99)- It has an easy self application and I love the fact that it doesn’t get on your hands. It applies evenly and it goes on quickly.
2. Kate Sommerville Somer360 Tanning Towlette ($6)- It’s a great self-tanning product for travel.
3. Aveeno Continuous Radiance Moisturizing Lotion ($11.99)- I love that added moisture with the tanning product and it leaves no streaks! You’re left with a nice sun kiss glow.
4. Bliss A Tan For All Seasons ($36)- The name describes it perfectly. You can use it for any season especially during the winter months. It’s very easy to use and it doesn’t come off.
5. Tan Towel Classic Self-Tan Towelettes ($21)- I love this self-tanner and it’s my go to product all year round.  I am african american but I do have some uneven areas so it blends with my skintone very well. It has a nice, citrus scent and will give you a sunkissed glow in just a few hours.

6. Banana Boat Sunless Summer Color Lotion($6.99)- Great product that will give you a nice glow and it’s the most cost effective.

7. Clarins Radiance-Plus Self Tanning Body Lotion ($42)- Gives you added hydration and a natural golden glow.

8. Bare Escentuals Faux Tan Sunless Tanner ($22)- Gives terrific color after showering and is easy to use.

9. Modelco’s Tan Airbrush in a Can ($30)- This is a fantastic product if you want an all even coverage.  No more stained hands!

10. St Tropez Self Tanning Bronzing Lotion ($30)- Another great self tanner that I love. It’s great for women with darker skintones!

©2010 Hot Beauty Health. All Rights Reserved.

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LINK LOVE:The 10 Best Self Tanning Products for 2010

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Cream blush is everywhere. Pans, pots, sticks- they come in several formats and sheerness levels and are winning even reluctant hearts and faces including mine. Three or four years ago I had a hard time finding even one cream/gel blush I liked. Now I have several in my regular rotation and I can mix, blend and choose.

Speaking of mixing and blending, the Cheekie Palette from Julie Hewett has become a favorite (despite one big flaw. See below) exactly because of the endless customizing options it allows. The four Cheekie colors look intense in the pan but they apply sheer enough and blend well, so you don't end up with clown cheeks. You can wear them alone or blend two or more, which is what I usually do. Jami, the neutral rose-mauve is the only one I wear on its own because it looks very natural and the color is easy and as unfussy as it gets. I mix  Rosie or Peachie with Natural to bring them down a notch or two and get a color that has just the right amount of red or coral for me and adjust the levels of each shade according to mode, time of day and the other makeup I’m wearing.

The final effect is very nice natural flush. Just like Scarlett O’Hara biting her lips and pinching her cheeks in preparation for some flirting. Cheekie can also be used on the lips, but I prefer not to do that- most of the colors are too sheer to do anything for my pigmented lips.

The funny looking brush is very effective. It grabs enough color, blends it easily and isn’t abrasive on skin. It covers just enough face space so you don’t go overboard (blend well to avoid streaks).

The one big issue with this Julie Hewett product is longevity. The texture is pleasantly thin, but it also tends to fade and disappear within 6 hours if you don’t do a meticulous job of cementing it into place between two coats of face powder. Otherwise it just melts right into your foundation. So this is certainly not a touch-and-go   blush, and it requires that you take your time doing your face and find the right combination of products that work for you and for these cheeks color (some HD powders tend to mute these blushes a little too much. I prefer a finishing powder that has a little yellow pigment).

Another thing of note: I own several other Julie Hewett products (lipsticks, balms, eye shadows and liners)- all of them are made in the US. The Cheekie palette is the only one made in China. I’ve noticed other brands that do the same- most of the line is manufactured in the US or Europe, but a handful of items are outsourced to China. The annoying part is that you usually don’t have this info when ordering online (QVC is the only place I’ve seen that discloses the country of origin).

Bottom Line: Great concept, less than perfect implementation.

Cheekie Palette ($52 with brush, $42 without) is available from juliehewett.net (in the Palette section of the site, oddly missing from the Face category. The colors can also be purchased individually ($24 in a pot, $18 as a pan in a mirrored compact).

All photos are mine.

**You might have noticed blogger is having hiccups in the comment section. Some of you are getting errors when trying to upload a comment even though it actually goes through and gets sent to my email. Also, I’m unable to approve and publish your comments. Blogger usually fixes these issues withing 24 hours and comments aren’t lost in the process, but in any case I’m saving the emails and will enter them into the Aftelier giveaway regardless if they end up actually posted. I’ll reply to comments when everything is fixed, but if you have a more urgent question that requires a prompt reply you may want to contact me by email or on Twitter**

Copyright ©2006-2010 Gaia Fishler, The Non-Blonde. Content poaching is both illegal and ugly.

LINK LOVE:Julie Hewett Cheekie Palette & Brush

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How to Find the Best Red Dress for You – Coloring, Body Type, Event

So you’ve decided that for that special occasion you’re looking for the perfect red dress. Good choice! Red has so many variations and
shades, and with the right assistance, is a stunning color on just about
everyone. There is a red hue out there no matter your shade, undertone
or coloring.

There are also red dresses with all sorts of draping and cuts that flatter a variety of body types, and of course where you’re
going to be wearing the dress has a lot to do with the type of red dress
you will buy.

Whether you wear a red dress every day or you have hesitated to do so in the past because you thought it wouldn’t flatter
you, just keep reading. By the time you’re done, you’ll pick the most
flattering red dress ever, feel great about how you look in it, and grab
more admiring looks than you would have ever imagined.

This article will help you find the right dress for you shade, shape and
event.

The first thing you need to do is: Determine your undertone

Stand next to a natural source of light, and hold a piece of blank white paper underneath your hand. What tone in the most
prominent? What secondary color do you notice? Remember you’re not
looking at your color, but the hue that you notice despite or in
addition to your coloring.

I’ll give you an example. When I do this test, my undertone is Red, and my secondary color is yellow. This
means that I have a warm undertone, and that rich true reds, along with
reds that have a pink or orange tone suit my skin best. Now this isn’t
to say that a red with a blue undertone wouldn’t look good on me, but
for the best red dress, choosing one that compliments my complexion will
help me to look my best.

With this in mind I would choose a warm shade of red which would help my skin to glow.

But the color of the dress isn’t the only thing one has to think about when buying a red
dress.

The second thing your need to do is: Determine your shape

You also have to consider your shape. There are four basic shapes that are used for women. Apple, Pear, Hourglass and Tube
(Banana). Most people, whether they realize it or not, fall into the
Tube category. This isn’t a bad thing, in fact it’s quite easy to find
something that works with this shape, so quite often Tube or Banana
shapes have the most choices when it comes to finding a red dress.

Apple shaped women are broader up top than they are on the bottom.

Pear shaped women are broader on the bottom than they are the top.

Hourglass shaped women have a lower and upper half that are nearly equal in size
with a visibly small waist in comparison to their hips and buttocks.

Banana or Tube shaped women have minimal hip to waist ratios, in other words
though you can tell that they have a waist it’s not as obvious as it
would be with someone hour glass shaped.

Have you determined your shape? Good. Now your have two of the things you need in order to choose
the best red dress for you.

How a dress fits your shape, has to do with the fabric, drape and cut of the dress.

If you are Banana or Hourglass shape, you have an advantage of being fairly proportional,
so wearing a dress that clings to your shape can actually look nice
depending on the shape you’re in. This is key. Clingy outfits will
highlight and accentuate your body, so the point is, highlight your good
point.

If you have a nice bust line, than you might want to consider something that is clingy up top, but looser on the bottom.

If you’re a banana shape and you wear something clingy, consider wearing a
belt in a complimenting color 6cm or wider to give yourself the effect
of a curve.

For an Apple shape, you’ll be looking for something that gives your figure a more proportional look. Choosing something that
has a broader bottom (think layers) will make your bottom half a bit
fuller, thus matching your top half.

For a Pear shape, you’re trying to do the opposite of an Apple shape. You want your top to be
more proportional to your bottom. Choosing a dress with padding in the
bust, along with decoration up top, will help to create a fuller look in
the torso, bringing both your bottom and top half in line.

The third thing your need to do is: Determine your event

Are you going to a morning wedding, a party at a club in Ibiza, a formal evening
wedding, a corner office, a casual get together with friends? Let’s
break events down into 7 categories.

1. Casual
2. Semi-Casual

3. Office

4. Semi-Formal

5. Formal

6. Cocktail Party

7. Dancing

Once you’ve determined the type of event you are attending is, you can start looking at the best red dress for the
occasion.

For categories 1 and 2, you can get away with both very long (i.e. Maxi Dresses) and shorter than normal (mini or in the case of
casual micro mini).

For category 3, knee length through calf length is your best bet.

For categories 4 slightly above knee length through calf length will suit the occasion well.

For category 5 Ankle to Floor length is best.

For category 6 a couple of inches above the knee to knee length is the most common.

For category 7 your options are more open, but for your red dress to fit in
the with occasion a somewhat flair micro mini to knee length will give
you room for dancing, and hopefully a sense of flirty fun that will help
you enjoy the occasion.

Hopefully you’ve been able to apply these tips so that you find the best red dress for you!

LINK LOVE:How to Find the Best Red Dress For You – Coloring, Body Type, Event

When I first saw this Dolce Vita shoe among the spring offerings, I didn’t really warm to them. I just happened to be browsing through Marshalls this week and there they were on display….I immediately changed my mind about them! As I dug through the boxes, the largest size that I could find was a nine. I’m usually a nine, but when I tried the shoe on, I had a little “toe over hang.” Of course that wouldn’t do, so I had to leave without them. They do have them at Macy’s for $89, but the ones at Marshalls are just $39.99….darn the luck!

I bought this Kensie Girl sandal from Belk….Belk has one of the best end of the season sales, especially on shoes. I fell in love with the color, as I’ve been buying a lot of gray pieces that I knew would look good with them. I didn’t get to wear them though…..I showed them to my sister and ended up giving them to her. I didn’t mind….I can easily find another pair. (picture taken from dillards.com)

I bought this shoe (in black nappa)last Saturday at my favorite store. Zappos has them for $134, down from $229. I was lucky enough to get them for $49. (picture taken from zappos.com)

I ordered these Nicole Millers from J.C. Penney…..the stores in my area were all out of this color. They call in “black,” but as you can see, it’s more of a pewter.

Drawn by the stud detail, I purchased this pair from Burlington….The look so…..good on!

This is pair that I bought from T.J. Maxx yesterday. They were only $16.99, but to me they look much more expensive…..especially with all of the detail.

This pair and the next are both by Rocket Dog and I found them yesterday at my favorite store for $9 each. I needed a more casual, gold metallic pair and these certainly fit the bill. The other pair caught my eye due to their kind of, rustic and distressed look. They are super, super, comfortable!

LINK LOVE:"Shoe Crazy"

I’m still in love with the long military jacket…I’m so glad to see that that trend will continue this season. I love the tote, it adds that extra bit of something which makes the outfit pop.

Ah, the sequined trousers…I love the fact that they’re are a bit subdued, as compared to some of the shinier versions. This particular style, is great for day or night.

Nice sweater….just the right amount of well placed decoration.

Both are good looks….mixing colors always lends a certain element of style.

My eyes were immediately drawn to those gorgeous shoes….the jacket is nice too!

This is actually my favorite of all the looks. The hair, shoes, Alexander Wang bag and the fabulous jacket. She breaks up the all black with just a hint of color….gorgeous!

Nice dress….love the color.

Wow….is there anywhere that you DON’T see her! I must give it to her though, she knows her stuff when it comes to style.

Nice flats.

This is a nice head to to look….killer shoes! The eyes are always drawn to the thing that stands out the most.

(flaremagazine.com)

LINK LOVE:Street Style: Embellishment

Photographed by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott
Styled by Alex White

Louis Vuitton’s silk and cashmere velvet corset and skirt, louisvuitton.com.
Photographed by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott
Styled by Alex White

Eva Mendes wears Nina Ricci’s faux fur jacket, at Jeffrey, New York.
Photographed by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott
Styled by Alex White

Dolce & Gabbana’s silk dress, at select Dolce & Gabbana boutiques, 877.70.DGUSA.
Photographed by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott styled by Alex White

Marc Jacobs’s alpaca coat with attached belt, at Marc Jacobs, New York, marcjacobs.com; Nina Ricci’s silk dress, at Barneys New York, New York, barneys.com; Zainab, Los Angeles, zainabonline.com; Agent Provocateur’s nylon lace bra, at Agent Provocateur, Chicago and Los Angeles; Bloomingdale’s, New York. Harry Winston earrings.

Photographed by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott
Styled by Alex White (no info on dress)

Talented, sexy and something of a ham, Eva Mendes proves there’s more to her than meets the eye. Here, she wears Miu Miu’s wool dress with metal adornments, at select Miu Miu boutiques, miumiu.com. David Yurman’s platinum, tourmaline and diamond ring, price upon request, at David Yurman The Townhouse, New York, 212.752.4255.

Beauty Note: Mendes heats things up but still stays cool with Shiseido Makeup Sheer Matifying Compact Foundation SPF 22; Luminizing Satin Eye Color in Squirrel, Caramel, Cavern and Slate; Smoothing Eyeliner in Brown; Perfect Mascara in Black; Accentuating Color Stick in Bronze Flush; and Perfect Rouge lipstick in Valentine.
Photographed by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott
Styled by Alex White
Hair by Paul Hanlon/Julian Watson Agency; hair color by Justine Gomez; makeup by Charlotte Tilbury/Art Partner; manicure by Lisa Jachno/Cloutier Remix for Dior Beauty. Production by LaLaLand; digital imaging by D-Touch; postproduction by Dreamer Post. Photography assistants: Gareth Horton and Maurizio Bavutti. Fashion assistants: Eileen Hayes and Katie Casamassimo.

Special thanks to the Chateau Marmont.

LINK LOVE:Eva Mendes for W Magazine

Peter Beard’s images of Africa inspired Max and Lubov Azria’s travel-themed Resort collection. It’s a reference that can easily feel clichéd, but to the designers’ credit, their interpretation was fresh. Colorful batik-printed caftans and billowy silk dresses in a rainbow of greens—chartreuse, lime, asparagus—popped against neutral separates, including great slouchy khaki shorts and lightweight cotton utility-style jackets. To complete the luxe global-nomad look: a series of white cotton shirts and tank dresses featuring tie fronts and draped skirts.

(WWD)

This collection is at once, clean, fresh, colorful and downright pretty. Whatever the theme, each look is instantly appealing. Max Azria is one of those designers who can always be counted on for a collection of perfect pieces. The draping and asymmetric touches add just the right amount of “flavor.” While I love EACH and EVERY look, I’m particularly drawn to the brown strapless dress….the details and the color make it such a versatile piece. Definitely great for summer wear, but would also be great for spring and fall with the addition of a cardigan and flats. I’m also loving the high-waisted, cuff shorts…the wider legs are so flattering.

LINK LOVE:Max Azria Resort 2011

The designer with her jewels.

Sparkle queen Tarina Tarantino, of the winsome Hello Kitty baubles and glitter-infused skull jewelry beloved by Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton  Katy Perry and others, will collaborate with Sephora this winter for a makeup line.

Tarantino worked as a makeup artist before becoming a jewelry designer, so the makeup will not just look pretty sitting on your dresser – it’ll also be highly functional and fit for top makeup artists.

The designer with her jewels.

No, no we don't.

Why is she hailing Hitler?

Actually, each pant suit has been mistakingly monochromatic. Hillary Clinton’s collosal of colorful suits are attention craving, unpleasant, loud and obnoxious. Mmm… maybe they are a better match for Clinton after all. I hate to admit it, but these popsickle solid colored suits have become her signature.

Last night was no exception as Clinton pranced onto the DNC stage in an burnt orange pant suit. Eek. I love Diane Keaton’s Annie Hall masculine look but Clinton has to turned androynous chic into andreadful chic.  How did she plan to be president, if she can’t even dress herself? Little steps, Hil. Clinton looks as though she should be running a county fair, not the country.

Thanks to ABC News for the Pics!

No, no we don't.

No, no we don't.

Why is she hailing Hitler?