tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71387241229524667912012-05-31T10:05:23.723-04:00sartorial efforts. written composition. ephemera from the life of Hope.Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.comBlogger164125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-22234736238159263952012-05-24T12:56:00.000-04:002012-05-31T08:11:05.764-04:002012-05-31T08:11:05.764-04:00<div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7h0HviI-Xg/T75G3DgZGKI/AAAAAAAACP8/9rbtwZr6jiY/s1600/Option+Ad+2+JPEG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7h0HviI-Xg/T75G3DgZGKI/AAAAAAAACP8/9rbtwZr6jiY/s640/Option+Ad+2+JPEG.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"> <a href="http://www.h-boutique.com/">H Boutique</a>, an online retailer established in 2011, specializes in offering sophisticated yet trendy pieces for every woman. Created by Kristen Honeycutt, H Boutique believes that style should be attainable, comfortable and functional, and that every woman deserves to have equal opportunity to put her best foot forward. The H Boutique esthetic is classic, flattering and super affordable (I already have one dress and can't wait to order another!).</div> </div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QQxhBQPpL24/T75Gx8tbSQI/AAAAAAAACPk/6pOrAaSGr_o/s1600/HBoutiqueSS12+FINAL-37.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QQxhBQPpL24/T75Gx8tbSQI/AAAAAAAACPk/6pOrAaSGr_o/s640/HBoutiqueSS12+FINAL-37.jpg" width="426" /></a></div> H Boutique also has a mission that runs deeper than selling pretty pieces at great prices—for every item purchased, H Boutique donates clothing and other items to women and children in need. When I first learned of H Boutique, I was really attracted to this mission of giving back. I think it's wonderful that H Boutique simultaneously offers affordable, on-trend pieces while operating on a "buy one, give one" model.<br /> <br /> Also, a round of applause for <b>free shipping on any purchase</b>!<br /> <br /> A few of my favorites from the summer collection: <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;"> <div style="position: relative;"> <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/boutique/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=49455386"><img alt="H Boutique" border="0" height="464" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/XwWCMPG9336W01o9Kpq3g/cid/49455386/id/V24unp77SKWMkMoKIKK5dQ/size/c600x464.jpg" title="H Boutique" width="600" /></a></div> </div> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/boutique/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=49455386">H Boutique</a> by <a href="http://hopevictoria.polyvore.com/?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste">hopevictoria</a> on <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/">polyvore.com</a></small></div> </center> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.h-boutique.com/collections/whats-new/products/sophia-dress">Sophia Beach Dress</a>// <a href="http://www.h-boutique.com/collections/dresses/products/bella-dress">Bella Dress</a>// <a href="http://www.h-boutique.com/collections/whats-new/products/rosa-top">Rosa Top</a>// <a href="http://www.h-boutique.com/collections/whats-new/products/elle-dress">Elle Dress</a>// <a href="http://www.h-boutique.com/collections/whats-new/products/copy-of-vianna-dress-in-berry-test">A Vianna Dress</a>]</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bLqjMz8eDMw/T7w_w7k0FGI/AAAAAAAACPA/6wjUNbjakqk/s1600/HBoutiqueSS12+FINAL-34.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bLqjMz8eDMw/T7w_w7k0FGI/AAAAAAAACPA/6wjUNbjakqk/s640/HBoutiqueSS12+FINAL-34.jpg" width="425" /></a> </div> <br /> I'm excited to announce that H Boutique will be giving away the Mia Dress (pictured above) from the summer collection to one lucky reader of A Flattering Tale! <br /> <br /> To enter:<br /> • Visit <a href="http://www.h-boutique.com/">H Boutique</a> and leave a comment on this blog post with your favorite item and a way to get in touch with you (preferably email).<br /> <br /> Extra entries:<br /> • Follow A Flattering Tale on <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2055885/a-flattering-tale">bloglovin'</a> or Google Friend Connect.<br /> • Like A Flattering Tale on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Flattering-Tale/156177367772075">Facebook.</a><br /> • Like H Boutique <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SkinBotanica"></a> on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/H.Boutique.Kristen.Honeycutt.Designer">Facebook</a>.<br /> • Share the giveaway on Facebook, Twitter or your own blog.<br /> <br /> Please let me know if you complete any extra entries by leaving an additional comment for each entry on this post. Since it's a holiday weekend, this giveaway will run a little longer than usual. Be sure to enter before the giveaway ends at <b>11:59 p.m. EST on Wednesday, May 30</b>. Good luck!!<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UT7Zuy0MiKw/T75IjnEoqYI/AAAAAAAACQE/wpzJLiQcbrI/s1600/Silver+Logo+with+Anthem+JPEG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UT7Zuy0MiKw/T75IjnEoqYI/AAAAAAAACQE/wpzJLiQcbrI/s320/Silver+Logo+with+Anthem+JPEG.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-2223473623815926395?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/nXfKvbA8rnRFcI6Wu0M7ph4bndM/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/nXfKvbA8rnRFcI6Wu0M7ph4bndM/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/nXfKvbA8rnRFcI6Wu0M7ph4bndM/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/nXfKvbA8rnRFcI6Wu0M7ph4bndM/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/MQ84IApUrDc" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com226http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/h-boutique-giveaway.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-40150535799033543772012-05-22T21:31:00.000-04:002012-05-22T21:31:50.116-04:002012-05-22T21:31:50.116-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xi_MEonBJaI/T7w4be84WPI/AAAAAAAACM4/r5JqwK1d7uo/s1600/IMG_1950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xi_MEonBJaI/T7w4be84WPI/AAAAAAAACM4/r5JqwK1d7uo/s640/IMG_1950.JPG" width="425" /></a></div> <br /> Last weekend, my darling friend Maegan got married, and I was so honored to be a part of her beautiful day. Maegan was my sorority little sister, and she has truly become one of the most special people in my life. She was an absolutely gorgeous bride, and I am so happy for her and Rob!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-93vKe14b1kw/T7w4eXlu_tI/AAAAAAAACNE/z2FptJXrKB0/s1600/IMG_1974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-93vKe14b1kw/T7w4eXlu_tI/AAAAAAAACNE/z2FptJXrKB0/s640/IMG_1974.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [The wedding was held at the Lee University Chapel in Cleveland, Tennessee.]</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IYl2egTpMTA/T7w4dNmgjLI/AAAAAAAACNA/-NUq6A3r74Q/s640/IMG_1966.JPG" width="640" /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: black;">[the Polaroid guestbook]</span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> &nbsp;<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h_dYhooejNQ/T7w4f_jMR8I/AAAAAAAACNQ/8mn8RwXa1x4/s1600/IMG_1976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h_dYhooejNQ/T7w4f_jMR8I/AAAAAAAACNQ/8mn8RwXa1x4/s400/IMG_1976.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> [Caitlin Haley at <a href="http://www.hairagogo.com/">Hair A Go-Go</a> created the most amazing fishtail braid up-do for Maegan. I was absolutely astounded at the detail.]</div> <div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BOfoPRi0ymg/T7w4hokHnEI/AAAAAAAACNY/Ct_JyLwlxQI/s1600/IMG_1996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BOfoPRi0ymg/T7w4hokHnEI/AAAAAAAACNY/Ct_JyLwlxQI/s640/IMG_1996.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zS88msa-0tM/T7w4ihY9rFI/AAAAAAAACNg/y9vjCuQcHFk/s1600/IMG_2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zS88msa-0tM/T7w4ihY9rFI/AAAAAAAACNg/y9vjCuQcHFk/s400/IMG_2011.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Z_VkkZWd9k/T7w4j8427iI/AAAAAAAACNo/9fi5F7cJcpU/s1600/IMG_2013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Z_VkkZWd9k/T7w4j8427iI/AAAAAAAACNo/9fi5F7cJcpU/s400/IMG_2013.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WSZ1jTSbKVg/T7w4mWBH57I/AAAAAAAACN4/_mEYSfdqu6E/s1600/IMG_2052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WSZ1jTSbKVg/T7w4mWBH57I/AAAAAAAACN4/_mEYSfdqu6E/s640/IMG_2052.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> &nbsp;[Shoes by Vince Camuto]</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vGhPDegnk0/T7w4pKIELLI/AAAAAAAACOI/VJyraB5wSS0/s1600/IMG_2128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vGhPDegnk0/T7w4pKIELLI/AAAAAAAACOI/VJyraB5wSS0/s640/IMG_2128.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwSvGmNgpf4/T7w4oHVtXzI/AAAAAAAACOA/TOLKJyLjSZk/s1600/IMG_2088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwSvGmNgpf4/T7w4oHVtXzI/AAAAAAAACOA/TOLKJyLjSZk/s640/IMG_2088.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uATyq3nBnbI/T7w4qHiR_2I/AAAAAAAACOQ/pWvolgjRa_0/s1600/IMG_2140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uATyq3nBnbI/T7w4qHiR_2I/AAAAAAAACOQ/pWvolgjRa_0/s640/IMG_2140.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sIYQMXyCLn4/T7w4reEq8iI/AAAAAAAACOY/oP1dEoTKQrs/s1600/IMG_2157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sIYQMXyCLn4/T7w4reEq8iI/AAAAAAAACOY/oP1dEoTKQrs/s640/IMG_2157.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> Congrats again to the happy couple!<br /> <br /> In other news, the winner of the<a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/skincarerx-giveaway.html"> SkinCareRx giveaway</a> is...<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qnxK30S1LWo/T7w9TZPFYII/AAAAAAAACOs/_nekBTeMKPI/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qnxK30S1LWo/T7w9TZPFYII/AAAAAAAACOs/_nekBTeMKPI/s1600/Picture+5.png" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4quFjUrG7Mg/T7w9Ub0NZZI/AAAAAAAACO0/Vo76jvC_0Fk/s1600/Picture+7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="47" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4quFjUrG7Mg/T7w9Ub0NZZI/AAAAAAAACO0/Vo76jvC_0Fk/s400/Picture+7.png" width="400" /></a></div> Congrats, Katie!! I will be in touch. Thanks to everyone who entered. Stay tuned for another giveaway later this week!<br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-4015053579903354377?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/G-qpoj57awhNiKFE3NpLpJYYa0Y/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/G-qpoj57awhNiKFE3NpLpJYYa0Y/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/G-qpoj57awhNiKFE3NpLpJYYa0Y/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/G-qpoj57awhNiKFE3NpLpJYYa0Y/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/IAji-cTDCnk" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com4http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/my-friends-gorgeous-may-wedding.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-10487399304358737382012-05-21T13:00:00.001-04:002012-05-21T13:00:11.666-04:002012-05-21T13:00:11.666-04:00<div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z68BzPhHHE4/T7pzVUzIe4I/AAAAAAAACMs/VmTd-3SXFMU/s1600/perf_weave_mac_clutch_natural_front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z68BzPhHHE4/T7pzVUzIe4I/AAAAAAAACMs/VmTd-3SXFMU/s400/perf_weave_mac_clutch_natural_front.jpg" width="300" /></a> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://rebeccaminkoff.com/shop/handbags/perf-weave-mac-clutch.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> It seems like everyone has been talking about Rebecca Minkoff lately, and my favorite bag as of late is the <a href="http://rstyle.me/hn2xqtdfme">Perf Weave Morning After Clutch.</a> I love the summery, match-everything shade of the Perf Weave M.A.C., and the embellished stitched leather makes a subtle statement. The size and adjustable strap are perfect for summer day trips or a night out.<br /> <br />Don't forget to enter the <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/skincarerx-giveaway.html">SkinCareRx giveaway</a>! You have until 11:59 tonight to get your entries in!<br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-1048739930435873738?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/H7bQwm8v5N_5CfnBsdI7-IhIyH4/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/H7bQwm8v5N_5CfnBsdI7-IhIyH4/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/H7bQwm8v5N_5CfnBsdI7-IhIyH4/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/H7bQwm8v5N_5CfnBsdI7-IhIyH4/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/4NdSaeqZKRg" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com0http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/must-have-monday-perf-weave-mac-by.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-74680265312698726932012-05-19T20:21:00.002-04:002012-05-19T20:21:34.490-04:002012-05-19T20:21:34.490-04:00I'm so excited to be home this weekend to be a bridesmaid at my lovely friend Maegan's wedding! She was a stunning bride, and I had so much fun celebrating with the happy couple (pictures to come). Last week, I dreamed about my ideal packing list for a summer weekend in Tennessee:<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;"> <div style="position: relative;"> <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/trip_home_to_tennessee/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=49040572"><img alt="trip home to Tennessee" border="0" height="499" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/EwuZ6QS2UKvaAA2I8Q1aQ/cid/49040572/id/qc1A16AIRgiiQi6KIigAuQ/size/c600x499.jpg" title="trip home to Tennessee" width="600" /></a></div> </div> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/trip_home_to_tennessee/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=49040572">trip home to Tennessee</a> by <a href="http://hopevictoria.polyvore.com/?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste">hopevictoria</a> featuring <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/beach_sandals/shop?query=beach+sandals">beach sandals</a></small></div> </center><br /> <br /> [1. a comfortable henley to wear with everything (<a href="http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/72612?feat=510763-GN3">L.L. Bean Signature</a>)// 2. a punchy floral bag (<a href="http://rstyle.me/hnzkzgdfme">Kate Spade</a>)// 3. the perfect diaphanous skirt (<a href="http://www.calypsostbarth.com/Charlie-Skirt-p-18761.html">Calypso St. Barth</a>)// 4. simple pastel heels (<a href="http://rstyle.me/hkjha4dfme">ModCloth</a>) // 5. a refreshing splash of rose water (<a href="http://www.lushusa.com/Eau-Roma-Water/00408,en_US,pd.html">LUSH</a>)// 6. a dress to go from day to night (<a href="http://rstyle.me/hp8agudfme">Madewell</a>)// 7. tri-colored bangles (<a href="http://rstyle.me/g75pwbdfme">Kate Spade</a>)// 8. nautical sandals (<a href="http://rstyle.me/hhtdy2dfme">Tory Burch</a>)// 9. a gorgeous statement necklace (<a href="http://www.andreabonelli.com/necklaces/14k-and-silver-tourmaline-necklace">Andrea Bonelli Jewelry</a>)// 10. a flowing top (<a href="http://rstyle.me/hidn27dfme">Anthropologie</a>)// 11. mustard maxi skirt (<a href="http://rstyle.me/hn8j4sdfme">Forever 21</a>)// 12. the ideal bangle for airport security (<a href="http://www.inpink.com/bracelets/wide-carved-bone-bangle.html">INPINK</a>)]<br /> <br /> Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Wooden!! I am so honored to have celebrated with them.<br /> <br /> [P.S. Have you entered the <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/skincarerx-giveaway.html">SkinCareRx giveaway</a> yet?]<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-7468026531269872693?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/y_l_2vBRGM-cOimiC7l9HKfDlxA/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/y_l_2vBRGM-cOimiC7l9HKfDlxA/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/y_l_2vBRGM-cOimiC7l9HKfDlxA/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/y_l_2vBRGM-cOimiC7l9HKfDlxA/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/ArpRCCmFtDA" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com2http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/how-to-pack-for-tennessee-weekend.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-87519703313012205972012-05-17T13:27:00.002-04:002012-05-17T13:27:50.253-04:002012-05-17T13:27:50.253-04:00I am so excited to announce a giveaway with one of my newest sponsors: <a href="http://skincarerx.com/">SkinCareRx</a>. SkinCareRx and its sister sites <a href="http://www.apothica.com/">Apothica</a> and <a href="http://www.skinbotanica.com/">SkinBotanica</a> offer thousands of beauty products (Clarisonic, Essie, Boscia and Jurlique, to name a few).&nbsp; SkinCareRx also offers some of the <a href="http://skincarerx.com/pt:Moisturizers.html">best dry skin lotion</a> on the market.<br /> <br /> SkinCareRx has graciously offered a $20 gift card giveaway, redeemable at any of their sites, to the readers of A Flattering Tale!<br /> <br /> Here's what I would choose:<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;"> <div style="position: relative;"> <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/skincarerx/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=48961569"><img alt="SkinCareRx" border="0" height="439" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/F6L99KC342g5HAbomQ5rHQ/cid/48961569/id/tPm6y39-RiePdfKm1LCPSQ/size/c600x439.jpg" title="SkinCareRx" width="600" /></a></div> </div> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/skincarerx/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=48961569">SkinCareRx</a> by <a href="http://hopevictoria.polyvore.com/?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste">hopevictoria</a> featuring <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/beauty_products/shop?category_id=74">beauty products</a></small></div> </center> <br /> <br /> 1. <a href="http://apothica.com/Clarisonic-Mia-Sonic-Cleansing-System-Pink.html">Clarisonic Mia Cleansing System</a>// 2. <a href="http://skincarerx.com/Boscia-B.B.-Cream-SPF-27-PA%2B%2B.html">Boscia B.B. Cream</a>// 3. <a href="http://candles.apothica.com/Voluspa-3-Wick-Candle-in-Decorative-Tin-Creme-De-Peche.html">Voluspa Three-Wick Candle in Creme de Peche</a>// 4. <a href="http://skinbotanica.com/100%25-Pure-Coffee-Bean-Eye-Cream.html">100% Pure Coffee Bean Eye Cream</a>// 5. <a href="http://skincare.apothica.com/Too-Faced-The-Bronzed-and-the-Beautiful.html">The Bronzed and the Beautiful by Too Faced</a>// 6. <a href="http://apothica.com/Burts-Bees-Burts-Bees-Mama-Bee-Nourishing-Body-Oil-4-Oz.html">Burt's Bees Mama Bee Nourishing Body Oil</a>// 7. <a href="http://skincare.apothica.com/Deborah-Lippmann-Nail-Lacquer-Happy-Birthday.html">Happy Birthday Nail Lacquer by Deborah Lippman</a>// 8. <a href="http://skincare.apothica.com/Jurlique-Rosewater-Balancing-Mist-3.3-fl.-oz..html">Jurlique Rose Water Balancing Mist</a><br /> <br /> To enter:<br /> • Leave a comment with your favorite product from <a href="http://skincarerx.com/">SkinCareRx</a>, <a href="http://www.apothica.com/">Apothica</a> or <a href="http://www.skinbotanica.com/">SkinBotanica</a> and a way to get in touch with you (preferably email).<br /> <br /> Extra entries:<br /> • Follow A Flattering Tale on <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2055885/a-flattering-tale">bloglovin'</a> or Google Friend Connect.<br /> • Like A Flattering Tale on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Flattering-Tale/156177367772075">Facebook.</a><br /> • Like <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SkinCareRx">SkinCareRx</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Apothica">Apothica</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SkinBotanica">SkinBotanica</a> on Facebook.<br /> • Share the giveaway on Facebook, Twitter or your own blog.<br /> <br /> Please let me know if you complete any extra entries by leaving additional comments on the post. The giveaway will be open until <b>11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, May 21</b>.<br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-8751970331301220597?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6hjaEfE6lc5K-XE3Q9NpF11lMbg/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6hjaEfE6lc5K-XE3Q9NpF11lMbg/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6hjaEfE6lc5K-XE3Q9NpF11lMbg/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6hjaEfE6lc5K-XE3Q9NpF11lMbg/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/qRWZlVFb96E" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com38http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/skincarerx-giveaway.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-34477482018138516982012-05-15T14:41:00.001-04:002012-05-15T14:41:59.858-04:002012-05-15T14:41:59.858-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B10LwKUFzAY/T7GKyxtsQJI/AAAAAAAACL4/Q_8ow8nxOrk/s1600/IMG_1915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B10LwKUFzAY/T7GKyxtsQJI/AAAAAAAACL4/Q_8ow8nxOrk/s640/IMG_1915.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <br /> One of the best things about warmer weather: wearing dresses without tights. I'm all for layering when it's cold, but it's so nice to let your skin breathe and soak up the sun a bit.<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jdu6xT0oSv8/T7GK0LKn0jI/AAAAAAAACMA/rBVfR5N-sPE/s1600/IMG_1918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jdu6xT0oSv8/T7GK0LKn0jI/AAAAAAAACMA/rBVfR5N-sPE/s640/IMG_1918.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <br /> Last Saturday, Chad and I headed to Columbia University's <a href="http://library.columbia.edu/indiv/avery.html">Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library</a> to see finished projects from the Historic Preservation program and a lot of other groups from the <a href="http://www.arch.columbia.edu/">Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation</a>. I jumped at the chance to get a little dressed up for the occasion.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HD0PIAc7yq4/T7GK3CBwHWI/AAAAAAAACMQ/ZdZfNWLXzBs/s1600/IMG_1933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HD0PIAc7yq4/T7GK3CBwHWI/AAAAAAAACMQ/ZdZfNWLXzBs/s640/IMG_1933.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> I love the versatility of this Madewell dress, and I've already been wearing it a lot lately (<a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/feeling-posh-with-poshmark.html">like to the Poshmark party</a>). I'm so excited to wear more dresses with bare legs now that summer seems to be here.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7snwZ-CFLxY/T7GK1igfBCI/AAAAAAAACMI/iqCMyCedT_Q/s1600/IMG_1927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7snwZ-CFLxY/T7GK1igfBCI/AAAAAAAACMI/iqCMyCedT_Q/s640/IMG_1927.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [dress: <a href="http://rstyle.me/f4v5ycdfme">Madewell</a>// heels: <a href="http://www.ninewest.com/Caress/6279317,default,pd.html?variantSizeClass=&amp;variantColor=PINKPA&amp;cgid=8346252&amp;prefn1=catalog-id&amp;prefv1=ninewest-catalog">Nine West</a>// bag: Steve Madden// belt: Forever 21// earrings: gift from my friend Anne]</div> <br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-3447748201813851698?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/e3h0bFfPg8lyaj1oK0hAi2ZlR7Q/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/e3h0bFfPg8lyaj1oK0hAi2ZlR7Q/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/e3h0bFfPg8lyaj1oK0hAi2ZlR7Q/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/e3h0bFfPg8lyaj1oK0hAi2ZlR7Q/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/gjkpmF4gkJQ" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com6http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/little-dressed-up.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-47552721004339929612012-05-14T13:11:00.000-04:002012-05-14T13:11:33.855-04:002012-05-14T13:11:33.855-04:00As a low-maintenance makeup girl, I rarely wear blush and only really own one shade. After feeling like my face seemed a little dull, I turned to NARS Illuminator, a liquid blush that creates an effect that makes your skin lit from within. NARS has long been heralded as the king of flattering blushes, and using Illuminator provides the benefit of a blush without the brush. I gravitated to the Illuminator shade "Orgasm" (a similar color to NARS' award-winning powder blush), but I would love to try the bronzed "Laguna" next. The shade is a perfect blend of flush and shimmer, with a peachy gold tint.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/productimages/sku/s1307552-main-hero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.sephora.com/productimages/sku/s1307552-main-hero.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.sephora.com/illuminator-P284301?om_mmc=esv103264-GG&amp;om_kwpur=341492781&amp;ppc_crid=8818363217&amp;site=us_search&amp;esvcid=S1337014902_ADOGOE_AGI3733660_CRE8818363217_TID341492781_RFDd3d3Lmdvb2dsZS5jb20%3d">source</a>]</div> <br /> Now that warmer weather is upon us, I skip foundation all together and just swipe Illuminator on my cheekbones. The $30 price tag may seem a bit pricey for one product, but you only need a pea-sized amount for the full effect. If you don't like layering on makeup like me (or you want to add something special to your usual foundation), NARS Illuminator does the trick.<br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-4755272100433992961?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/KBvi3ayFhLBg1nDS7pCYqjRAlUo/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/KBvi3ayFhLBg1nDS7pCYqjRAlUo/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/KBvi3ayFhLBg1nDS7pCYqjRAlUo/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/KBvi3ayFhLBg1nDS7pCYqjRAlUo/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/0LqrgtD0mgo" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com0http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/must-have-monday-nars-illuminator.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-92213041365678418682012-05-09T16:33:00.003-04:002012-05-09T16:33:32.542-04:002012-05-09T16:33:32.542-04:00<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V6afzr-UZxU/T6nNmtZPzEI/AAAAAAAACLc/A4oO93_iEfE/s1600/IMG_1888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V6afzr-UZxU/T6nNmtZPzEI/AAAAAAAACLc/A4oO93_iEfE/s400/IMG_1888.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NBnNomMaBtY/T6nNph13f5I/AAAAAAAACLs/lcLeM-McGP0/s1600/IMG_1891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NBnNomMaBtY/T6nNph13f5I/AAAAAAAACLs/lcLeM-McGP0/s400/IMG_1891.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending the Spring Trends Posh Party, an event celebrating the launch of <a href="http://poshmark.com/">Poshmark</a>, an iPhone app for selling and buying clothing. The party featured a few bloggers and their virtual closets as hostesses.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W3O-xWf5I6s/T6nNn3fnU6I/AAAAAAAACLk/_0r372vSI5E/s1600/IMG_1890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W3O-xWf5I6s/T6nNn3fnU6I/AAAAAAAACLk/_0r372vSI5E/s400/IMG_1890.JPG" width="266" /></a></div> <br /> Although I thought I didn't really know anyone at the party, I happened to sit next to <a href="http://delayedmissives.com/">Alex</a> and <a href="http://starcrossedsmile.com/">Nnenna</a> (who it turns out, I do know from her blog and the <a href="http://starcrossedsmile.com/2012/04/correspondence-club-april-2012/">Correspondence Club</a>). I always love meeting other style bloggers, especially since I still don't know too many people here in NYC, and I was so happy to run into Alex, Nnenna and a lot of other great bloggers. Thanks, Poshmark!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eS7dGvD-HXE/T6nNjgEB63I/AAAAAAAACLU/F7zIJjL8xmQ/s1600/IMG_1887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eS7dGvD-HXE/T6nNjgEB63I/AAAAAAAACLU/F7zIJjL8xmQ/s400/IMG_1887.JPG" width="265" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://rstyle.me/f4v5ycdfme">dress: Madewell</a> from Shopbop via <a href="http://sorelleinstyle.blogspot.com/">Sorelle in Style</a> giveaway// shoes: Contributor by Rachel Comey// tights: American Apparel// belt: Forever 21]</div> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-9221304136567841868?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/vh2VqrUZv3CEQ36ofyI7yNVGCz8/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/vh2VqrUZv3CEQ36ofyI7yNVGCz8/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/vh2VqrUZv3CEQ36ofyI7yNVGCz8/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/vh2VqrUZv3CEQ36ofyI7yNVGCz8/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/FJkw6_xXHDg" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com6http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/feeling-posh-with-poshmark.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-75053256811140233752012-05-07T14:55:00.002-04:002012-05-07T14:55:23.939-04:002012-05-07T14:55:23.939-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ifB7tKm1A-k/T6fJixthLsI/AAAAAAAACLI/JbI68zOaOKQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-05-07+at+9.09.04+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ifB7tKm1A-k/T6fJixthLsI/AAAAAAAACLI/JbI68zOaOKQ/s400/Screen+shot+2012-05-07+at+9.09.04+AM.png" width="337" /></a></div> <br /> I really love <a href="http://www.llbean.com/llbeansignature/llb/shop/8llb/shop">L.L. Bean Signature</a>, a line by L.L. Bean that I think of as the brand's younger, hipper sibling. I often drool over the catalog and the simple-yet-unique pieces, from amazing woven-leather heels to bright printed dresses.<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Car_D3qEXM/T6fJh2r3gEI/AAAAAAAACLA/Ll2G11-KmYw/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-05-07+at+9.08.43+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Car_D3qEXM/T6fJh2r3gEI/AAAAAAAACLA/Ll2G11-KmYw/s320/Screen+shot+2012-05-07+at+9.08.43+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> &nbsp;[<a href="http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/73471?feat=505942-GN3&amp;attrValue_0=Saddle">source</a>]</div> <br /> The <a href="http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/73471?feat=505942-GN3&amp;attrValue_0=Saddle">Interlocking Nautical Belt</a> is the perfect blend of rugged and ornate, with a detailed ship buckle that reminds me of our own trips to Maine. I have a gold anchor button I picked up at an antique store while visiting my friend Megan in Mobile, Alabama, and the aesthetic of this belt is very similar. L.L. Bean is all about quality, and this belt seems like the perfect polished investment for spring and summer.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-7505325681114023375?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/4ESuGCTuNT-LrDahZP9cppJ3L8Y/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/4ESuGCTuNT-LrDahZP9cppJ3L8Y/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/4ESuGCTuNT-LrDahZP9cppJ3L8Y/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/4ESuGCTuNT-LrDahZP9cppJ3L8Y/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/sDX0VaF_EmM" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com1http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/must-have-monday-interlocking-nautical.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-31501484301280095002012-05-06T21:43:00.002-04:002012-05-06T21:43:38.630-04:002012-05-06T21:43:38.630-04:00As a writer and a blogger, sometimes I just lack inspiration. There's really no excuse for it, and I've let this feeling (and being sick all week) put my blog on hold for a bit. I could post some inspirational photos from Pinterest or other places, but I think when inspiration is fleeting, it's sometimes best for me to just take a break.<br /> <br /> I had a lovely time with some fellow NYC bloggers/ladies today (<a href="http://starcrossedsmile.com/">Nnenna</a>, <a href="http://delayedmissives.com/">Alex</a> and Alex's friend Kristine), which always helps clear the mind.<br /> <br /> In the meantime, how do you overcome inspiration/writer's block? Can anyone offer any tips?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-3150148430128009500?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/OogMWDlMJEjBBDyJU1JDq6tDaI8/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/OogMWDlMJEjBBDyJU1JDq6tDaI8/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/OogMWDlMJEjBBDyJU1JDq6tDaI8/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/OogMWDlMJEjBBDyJU1JDq6tDaI8/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/67oNioZMnKw" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com3http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/05/inspiration.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-86696785142781299552012-04-23T14:16:00.002-04:002012-04-23T14:16:18.867-04:002012-04-23T14:16:18.867-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/flower-jumper-515x771.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/flower-jumper-515x771.jpg" width="426" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/blog/news-from-minnetonka-hq/wren-x-minnetonka-collaboration/">source</a>]</div> <br /> As a long-time fan of anything <a href="http://minnetonkamoccasin.com/">Minnetonka</a> produces (seen <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2011/12/ice-skating.html">here</a>, <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2011/10/frocktober.html">here</a> and <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2011/09/very-stylish-picnic.html">here</a>), I am so excited for their new collaboration with the L.A.-based label <a href="http://wrenstudio.com/">wren</a>. wren x Minnetonka, which debuts in Fall 2012, combines the utilitarian aesthetic of Minnetonka moccasins with the chic expression of wren designer Melissa Coker. The result: juxtaposition of bold color reminiscent of a Western desert and punky all-over leopard print. I think I need them all.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/Wren_Leopard-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/Wren_Leopard-web.jpg" width="352" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/blog/news-from-minnetonka-hq/wren-x-minnetonka-collaboration/attachment/wren_leopard-web/">source</a>]</div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/Wren_Redweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/Wren_Redweb.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.minnetonkamoccasin.com/blog/news-from-minnetonka-hq/wren-x-minnetonka-collaboration/attachment/wren_redweb/">source</a>]</div> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-8669678514278129955?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/VtdIjQcleHjnf364QIlZLvwLt9g/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/VtdIjQcleHjnf364QIlZLvwLt9g/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/VtdIjQcleHjnf364QIlZLvwLt9g/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/VtdIjQcleHjnf364QIlZLvwLt9g/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/mUuYrud3lac" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com2http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/04/must-have-monday-wren-x-minnetonka.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-59927746112321164782012-04-19T22:05:00.000-04:002012-04-19T22:05:26.204-04:002012-04-19T22:05:26.204-04:00<a href="http://www.modcloth.com/">ModCloth</a> has recently announced their new Make the Cut: Premier Collection, a new line of dresses designed by the ModCloth community and co-founder Susan Kroger. My favorite dress in the collection is the lovely <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/effortless-allure-dress-in-violet">Effortless Allure Dress in Violet</a> (it also comes in a gorgeous yellow), and I imagined wearing this delightful frock in two ways:<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;"> <div style="position: relative;"> <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/modcloth_make_cut/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=47337138"><img alt="ModCloth—Make the Cut" border="0" height="600" src="http://embed.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/cid/47337138/id/iFhaXC1OQaKCKNMk2jcioQ/size/y.jpg" title="ModCloth—Make the Cut" width="600" /></a></div> </div> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/modcloth_make_cut/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=47337138">ModCloth—Make the Cut</a> by <a href="http://hopevictoria.polyvore.com/?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste">hopevictoria</a> featuring <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/polka_dot_handbags/shop?query=polka+dot+handbags">polka dot handbags</a></small></div> </center><br /> <br /> Check out the other gorgeous dresses in the Make the Cut collection <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/store/modcloth/make-the-cut-collection">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-5992774611232116478?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/mxRcmJ4vSh_ZawcAfwhwwmJ4nLY/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/mxRcmJ4vSh_ZawcAfwhwwmJ4nLY/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/mxRcmJ4vSh_ZawcAfwhwwmJ4nLY/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/mxRcmJ4vSh_ZawcAfwhwwmJ4nLY/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/3ct_bluVXO0" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com2http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/04/modclothmake-cut.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-37778920247801767162012-04-16T12:59:00.002-04:002012-04-16T12:59:34.003-04:002012-04-16T12:59:34.003-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://images.nymag.com/news/articles/12/04/girlsgirlsgirls/images/8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://images.nymag.com/news/articles/12/04/girlsgirlsgirls/images/8.jpg" width="634" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://nymag.com/arts/tv/features/girls-lena-dunham-2012-4/">source</a>]</div> <br /> Since we decided to move to New York, a lot of my friends were quick to make the Carrie Bradshaw quips: professional writer interested in fashion, moving to New York and obviously destined to acquire all the shoes a girl could desire. While I appreciate the compliments of my always supportive friends, I resent the archetypal "Carrie" character that Candace Bushnell, HBO, and now the CW (with the launch of <i>The Carrie Diaries</i>), are offering to women as an ideal. Although Carrie seems to have everything—a gorgeous rich guy, three beautiful best friends, the ability to travel around New York seamlessly while taking the train only that one time in six seasons and two major motion pictures—I find her to be painfully annoying. When Chad and I first moved here, I rewatched the entire series (and the movies) just for the frivolity. It is fun to see all those shoes and happening New York hot spots, but beyond that element, Carrie was one of my least favorite characters. She's extremely selfish, expects her friends to revolve around her life and schedule and treats good people horribly (Aidan, anyone?), yet somehow ends up with her prince, castle and fairytale at the end. I hate that Carrie's stereotype makes it seem like being a writer in New York means jetsetting, getting into the restaurants of the moment, wearing designer clothing and footwear and affording this lifestyle with just a few moments of typing on an outdated typewriter.<br /> <br /> Yes, I realize that Carrie and all the <i>Sex and the City</i> girls are just imaginary characters, but HBO's new venture, <i>Girls</i>, which debuted last night, has me excited to follow the lives of cable's four new females.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8hC-wnTdpgA/T4RPOaGuEAI/AAAAAAAAB8o/41XDpYqTvMk/s1600/original.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8hC-wnTdpgA/T4RPOaGuEAI/AAAAAAAAB8o/41XDpYqTvMk/s400/original.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://20-nothings.blogspot.com/2012/04/girls-vs-sex-city-how-will-they-be.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/lenadunham">Lena Dunham</a> (the creator, writer, director and star of the show who is just 25), Jemima Kirke, Allison Williams (you may have heard of her father Brian) and Zosia Mamet (of <i>Mad Men</i> fame and the daughter of renowned playwright David Mamet), are twenty-somethings living in New York. <a href="http://nymag.com/arts/tv/features/girls-lena-dunham-2012-4/"><i>New York Magazine</i>'s Emily Nussbaum</a> describes the show as "four friends, adrift in a modern New York of unpaid internships and bad sex on dirty sofas...a bold defense (and a searing critique) of the so-called Millennial Generation by a person still in her twenties." Sounds like a show positioned for success in my eyes.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1058715.1333998175%21/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/image.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1058715.1333998175%21/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/image.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/television/hbo-series-girls-features-characters-stumble-grope-start-life-article-1.1058717">source</a>]</div> <br /> I've been primed by marketing campaigns, endless press and giant Times Square billboards to like this show for weeks, and I absolutely do. In addition to the depiction of friendship and pithy remarks, I also noticed the real-girl wardrobe of the four leading ladies that encapsulates our first glimpses into their characters. Instead of ridiculous fuzzy-toed Dolce &amp; Gabbana heels, the girls are in current and realistic ensembles.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.lemonwade.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/girls_320.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.lemonwade.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/girls_320.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.lemonwade.com/2012/04/13/girls-girls-girls-more-hbo-hype/">source</a>]</div> <br /> <i>Girls</i> costume designer <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2568551/">Jenn Rogien</a>, a Brooklynite who has also worked on <i>The Good Wife</i>, <i>Bored to Death</i> and <i>Baby Mama</i>, describes her work as creating the perfect looks for the characters, which ranges from looking great to <a href="http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/2012/03/lena-dunham-girls-costume-designer-jenn-rogien-hbo.html">"slightly gritty"</a> to disheveled. I think Rogien's work is remarkable—the costuming isn't about making the characters look strikingly beautiful or ethereal. Even a show like <i>New Girl</i>, with a main character meant to be glaringly quirky and oh so different from her supermodel friend, throws little ModCloth dresses on Jess to transcend her into indie-goddess territory.<br /> <br /> I'm excited to see the new direction of how Rogien's costuming and Dunham's voice of "a generation" breathe life into these characters as the series progresses.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-3777892024780176716?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/9h95No0zfQJ4YHMggo6xXMVZoC0/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/9h95No0zfQJ4YHMggo6xXMVZoC0/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/9h95No0zfQJ4YHMggo6xXMVZoC0/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/9h95No0zfQJ4YHMggo6xXMVZoC0/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/aGXML8ci42M" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com5http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/04/inspiration-real-girl-style-of-hbos.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-59070316617621490382012-04-15T19:45:00.000-04:002012-04-15T19:46:11.148-04:002012-04-15T19:46:11.148-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OjmxreYIblM/T4XCjxFGTpI/AAAAAAAAERg/3x8UGU6o38I/s640/IMG_4329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OjmxreYIblM/T4XCjxFGTpI/AAAAAAAAERg/3x8UGU6o38I/s640/IMG_4329.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/2012/04/outfit-easy-does-it.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> I met Bethany and her friend <a href="http://beholdahoneybee.wordpress.com/">Jessica</a> at the <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/02/lulus-style-studio.html">LuLu*s Style Studio</a> event last Fashion Week. Since then, I've been reading Bethany's blog <a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/">A Lucky Fifth</a> and and coveting her closet and beauty supply. Bethany's blog is a combination of city-girl cool and a friend's advice on the best <a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/2012/04/product-review-jergens-natural-glow.html">self-tanning lotion</a> or <a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/2012/03/product-review-lumene-vitamin-c-day.html">moisturizer</a>. Bethany is a writer and has a voice with clarity that I really love—plus, she and Jessica were nice enough to help me find the right train way back in February. What's not to love?<br /> <br /> Learn more about Bethany, and check out her blog <a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/">A Lucky Fifth</a>!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OPH_jkyhwqU/T4W1urAxLCI/AAAAAAAAERA/LCPUq9s2Bfc/s640/IMG_4346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OPH_jkyhwqU/T4W1urAxLCI/AAAAAAAAERA/LCPUq9s2Bfc/s640/IMG_4346.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/2012/04/outfit-post-ocean-hues.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> <b>Where are you from?</b><br /> That's always a tough question for me. My family moved a lot when I was a kid. I spent the longest amount of time in Omaha, Nebraska but I always say I left my heart in Iowa where I went to college.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l9RuQ_LoSLM/T3CX_7U4PbI/AAAAAAAAEJY/uVXIjfdN2FI/s640/IMG_4253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l9RuQ_LoSLM/T3CX_7U4PbI/AAAAAAAAEJY/uVXIjfdN2FI/s640/IMG_4253.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/2012/04/outfit-post-b-w.html">source</a>]</div> <b><br /></b><br /> <b>How did you choose your blog's title?</b><br /> <span style="color: red;"></span>It's from my favorite poem by e.e. cummings. It has a lot of meanings to me. In the poem "a lucky fifth" refers to how just a portion, a fifth, of this person or idea he is seeking turns everything around for the better. That's a simplified version of just part of the poem's meaning. It's beautiful, definitely read it if you haven't.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qANpd3wsvwM/T3CQPnm7FWI/AAAAAAAAEJA/m2CPWPA2sGU/s640/IMG_4230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qANpd3wsvwM/T3CQPnm7FWI/AAAAAAAAEJA/m2CPWPA2sGU/s640/IMG_4230.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/2012/03/outfit-post-freshly-minted.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> <b>What item in your closet could you not live without?</b><br /> Oh wow, this sometimes changes with the seasons, but I'd say my collection of blazers and my leather jackets (real and faux). Somehow adding a great blazer just brings outfits together—right now I'm wearing my bright pink one from Zara with everything. Leather jackets are just classic, I often use them to toughen up an outfit that has gone a little too girly for my taste.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oN_YlsiATI8/T0Z2U4Q6GnI/AAAAAAAAD8c/urRZ56l_T04/s640/IMG_4036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oN_YlsiATI8/T0Z2U4Q6GnI/AAAAAAAAD8c/urRZ56l_T04/s640/IMG_4036.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/2012/02/outfit-post-graphic.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> <br /> <b>What inspires you?</b><br /> Oftentimes it's problems that truly inspire me. If someone tells me they can't find the perfect blouse to wear with a new skirt or they can't find the right foundation, I immediately go on a tireless hunt for a solution. My Monday blog posts are called "Fashion OCD" for a reason! I think about this stuff non-stop. Women in general really inspire me—smart, industrious, adventurous women—I spent some time in retail as a styling associate and I saw how putting a woman in the right outfit can literally change her entire outlook on herself and life.<br /> Also Pinterest is like a drug. Who isn't inspired by that site?!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5tcG4LI3SDA/T2iV01X7nxI/AAAAAAAAEFE/zqntu3iZ2Bw/s640/IMG_4184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5tcG4LI3SDA/T2iV01X7nxI/AAAAAAAAEFE/zqntu3iZ2Bw/s640/IMG_4184.jpg" width="480" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/2012/03/outfit-fresh.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> <b>What do you love most about blogging?</b><br /> I love having a way to share the way I see the world. I love feeling that maybe I made someone's day a little better or inspired someone. I love the community, too, I want to hear what my readers think so I love when they comment or email me.<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8NwqBlpgTU/T1TwXcYHutI/AAAAAAAAD-0/P6pd2cNeIFE/s640/IMG_4115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8NwqBlpgTU/T1TwXcYHutI/AAAAAAAAD-0/P6pd2cNeIFE/s640/IMG_4115.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://lucky-fifth.blogspot.com/2012/03/outfit-seeing-spots.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-5907031661762149038?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/5eQnJKcM1HCitFZSR66UOMyhKzI/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/5eQnJKcM1HCitFZSR66UOMyhKzI/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/5eQnJKcM1HCitFZSR66UOMyhKzI/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/5eQnJKcM1HCitFZSR66UOMyhKzI/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/IwUYyvlD9jM" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com4http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/04/spotlight-bethany-of-lucky-fifth.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-7566136673377280492012-04-10T12:47:00.000-04:002012-04-10T12:47:18.389-04:002012-04-10T12:47:18.389-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2NimP_lioiI/T4RZkPUP2XI/AAAAAAAACKk/gWY8CcLrVW0/s1600/IMG_1316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2NimP_lioiI/T4RZkPUP2XI/AAAAAAAACKk/gWY8CcLrVW0/s640/IMG_1316.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> I know my outfit posts have been few and far between lately, and I feel somewhat compelled to apologize. While I am sorry I haven't been updating as often, I think this mini hiatus has helped me regain some motivation and inspiration as a whole. With that said, I do have some things coming up that I'm very excited about!<br /> <br /> In the meantime, Chad and I took a break from things and headed to the Central Park Zoo last Saturday. <br /> <br /> I think if I could choose to be reincarnated as an animal, it might be a sea lion...<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B5iIJfyODK0/T4RZJg7ptGI/AAAAAAAACJs/FGUzNYPfN6c/s1600/IMG_1137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B5iIJfyODK0/T4RZJg7ptGI/AAAAAAAACJs/FGUzNYPfN6c/s640/IMG_1137.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> We also caught glimpses of these guys:<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yvB9bFBSo0U/T4RZPkqvFSI/AAAAAAAACJ0/Xbnr_yWqqIs/s1600/IMG_1181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yvB9bFBSo0U/T4RZPkqvFSI/AAAAAAAACJ0/Xbnr_yWqqIs/s400/IMG_1181.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-di3LcwLD40A/T4RZUcleD-I/AAAAAAAACJ8/OWwHPLzw7fc/s1600/IMG_1206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-di3LcwLD40A/T4RZUcleD-I/AAAAAAAACJ8/OWwHPLzw7fc/s400/IMG_1206.JPG" width="266" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YI4by2nodBE/T4RZYr_9rTI/AAAAAAAACKE/sw0RC-qCvz0/s1600/IMG_1237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YI4by2nodBE/T4RZYr_9rTI/AAAAAAAACKE/sw0RC-qCvz0/s400/IMG_1237.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [for <a href="http://www.flourishandfancy.com/">Angelina</a>]</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: left;"> I don't have many photos of my outfit because my camera died, but we managed to snap a few with our new 50mm lens. </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iXVRJX-uRCI/T4RZcqJopUI/AAAAAAAACKU/TzGYdf5oZ_U/s1600/IMG_1305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iXVRJX-uRCI/T4RZcqJopUI/AAAAAAAACKU/TzGYdf5oZ_U/s400/IMG_1305.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAMYVbyVFLE/T4RZf3sYLQI/AAAAAAAACKc/jswZwLZWIYI/s1600/IMG_1308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAMYVbyVFLE/T4RZf3sYLQI/AAAAAAAACKc/jswZwLZWIYI/s640/IMG_1308.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7hDgAaSFf0/T4RZqmnJZ6I/AAAAAAAACKs/UcbEn7mTqBw/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7hDgAaSFf0/T4RZqmnJZ6I/AAAAAAAACKs/UcbEn7mTqBw/s640/IMG_1370.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> [button-up shirt: Uniqlo// denim: Fossil// boots: Justin + Fossil// <a href="http://orchidgrey.blogspot.com/">Orchid Grey</a> bracelet: c/o ModCloth// Marc by Marc Jacobs cuff: c/o TJ Maxx// earrings and rose gold ring: c/o InPink and <a href="http://www.selectivepotential.com/">Selective Potential</a>// wave bangles: c/o PoshLocket and <a href="http://kenziefaith.blogspot.com/">Kenzie Faith</a>// headband: packaging from StyleMint// bag: Steve Madden]</div> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-756613667337728049?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fp6_QKU0zcRGEDtQksP-WJz-yz4/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fp6_QKU0zcRGEDtQksP-WJz-yz4/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fp6_QKU0zcRGEDtQksP-WJz-yz4/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/fp6_QKU0zcRGEDtQksP-WJz-yz4/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/xeWufBk3KvI" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com21http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/04/take-break.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-17100459407554235732012-04-09T15:53:00.001-04:002012-04-09T15:53:52.179-04:002012-04-09T15:53:52.179-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-avNeNHQR_ks/T4IyPLxioXI/AAAAAAAACJc/3nOmFutqn3M/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="383" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-avNeNHQR_ks/T4IyPLxioXI/AAAAAAAACJc/3nOmFutqn3M/s400/Picture+5.png" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.katespade.com/designer-handbags/fabric-purses/on-the-ball-treesh/">source</a>]</div> <br /> This tennis-ball yellow shade (that my friend Katie calls "retina burning") is everywhere this spring, and this shoulder bag by Kate Spade is the perfect pop of neon. I used to play tennis in high school and early college, and every time the weather starts to warm up, I'm ready to hit the courts again. Maybe I should invest in this lovely patent leather bag, marked with the subtle lines of a tennis ball, to jump start my athletic endeavors this spring...<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BjNG5ZiGRc0/T4IyP3ObdDI/AAAAAAAACJk/QtFM-tNXiXs/s1600/Picture+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BjNG5ZiGRc0/T4IyP3ObdDI/AAAAAAAACJk/QtFM-tNXiXs/s400/Picture+6.png" width="397" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-1710045940755423573?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/TvwC2Gv1alqLfZ4gERZEGttruL0/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/TvwC2Gv1alqLfZ4gERZEGttruL0/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/TvwC2Gv1alqLfZ4gERZEGttruL0/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/TvwC2Gv1alqLfZ4gERZEGttruL0/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/qJgGcy0UI74" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com3http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/04/must-have-monday-kate-spades-on-ball.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-16194303839419528452012-03-28T12:39:00.000-04:002012-03-28T13:28:18.663-04:002012-03-28T13:28:18.663-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qAZv3zwktTA/T3KBo9Q-seI/AAAAAAAACIc/tbP5LFKx-bo/s1600/IMG_0448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qAZv3zwktTA/T3KBo9Q-seI/AAAAAAAACIc/tbP5LFKx-bo/s640/IMG_0448.JPG" width="426" /></a>&nbsp;</div> <br /> Do you ever get that "blah" feeling? The French call it <i>ennui</i>, and it always seems to happen to me a little during the winter. I think my feelings this year are more focused on missing my family and friends who live in other places around the country. I am so lucky to live such a lovely life with my husband and pup here in NYC, but every now and then, I really miss that feeling of home. <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UH5UfeGDe6I/T3KB4ov59wI/AAAAAAAACJM/xp2oqJK2NVs/s1600/IMG_0574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UH5UfeGDe6I/T3KB4ov59wI/AAAAAAAACJM/xp2oqJK2NVs/s640/IMG_0574.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C6Irv4Bx-7k/T3KBrl0A8VI/AAAAAAAACIk/6hircxxf-O4/s1600/IMG_0476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C6Irv4Bx-7k/T3KBrl0A8VI/AAAAAAAACIk/6hircxxf-O4/s640/IMG_0476.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <br /> Chad and I were recently visited by my brother and our longtime friends <a href="http://iamthefavoritechid.blogspot.com/">Katherine</a> and Jordan, who came up from Boston for a weekend. It was so nice to have familiar faces around.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3CUWQ87CRlA/T3KB7O84gUI/AAAAAAAACJU/uKx5ZG-YDeA/s1600/IMG_0590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3CUWQ87CRlA/T3KB7O84gUI/AAAAAAAACJU/uKx5ZG-YDeA/s640/IMG_0590.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> New York also did this lovely thing of having perfect spring weather (I spent last Friday reading on a blanket in the park) and then crushed our hearts with a burst of windy cold. I hope it warms back up soon. These photos look sunny, but a few days ago I could barely walk up the street without being blown away.<br /> <br /> I guess I created this outfit based on getting rid of winter blues...by wearing multiple shades of blues.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9UuTITCwEI/T3KByQcH_EI/AAAAAAAACI8/0ZDPCc9Y9es/s1600/IMG_0537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9UuTITCwEI/T3KByQcH_EI/AAAAAAAACI8/0ZDPCc9Y9es/s640/IMG_0537.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [dress: ASOS// sweater: Sosie// bag: Jason Wu for Target// blazer, earrings and chain: Fossil// cicada necklace: gift from my friend Sarah// tights: Uniqlo// loafers: Bearcat Vintage// belt: Forever 21// shades: Ray-Ban]</div> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-1619430383941952845?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ojTF-vPsVo7NRHRSioSng6QV-DQ/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ojTF-vPsVo7NRHRSioSng6QV-DQ/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ojTF-vPsVo7NRHRSioSng6QV-DQ/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/ojTF-vPsVo7NRHRSioSng6QV-DQ/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/6hWOemiXSxs" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com3http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/03/blues.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-55609768748034790522012-03-21T13:06:00.000-04:002012-03-21T13:06:40.383-04:002012-03-21T13:06:40.383-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://img2.timeinc.net/instyle/images/2011/lotd/021112-Diane-Kruger-290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img2.timeinc.net/instyle/images/2011/lotd/021112-Diane-Kruger-290.jpg" width="200" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://fashiondesigners.instyle.com/who_is_wearing/photos/all/diane-kruger/results.html?No=1&amp;pageAdd=0">source</a>]</div> <br /> Diane Kruger is one of those lucky ladies who can wear pretty much any color, any shape. Ever since her stunning breakout in <i>Troy</i> in 2007, we have watched as she wowed the world with her amazing style.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4HcRCgcPL7U/T2oGHYXDJlI/AAAAAAAACIM/WU4djfb2vzc/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-03-21+at+10.29.17+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4HcRCgcPL7U/T2oGHYXDJlI/AAAAAAAACIM/WU4djfb2vzc/s400/Screen+shot+2012-03-21+at+10.29.17+AM.png" width="201" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.shopbop.com/drop-waist-short-sleeve-shirt/vp/v=1/845524441936183.htm?folderID=2534374302198841&amp;fm=browse-brand-shopbysize-viewall&amp;colorId=39950#">source</a>]</div> <br /> Recently, Diane wore a fabulous outfit with pieces by 10 Crosby Derek Lam (pictured above) that combined two of springs most popular trends—florals and stripes (three trends if you count the bright green hue). With a surprising twist, Diane layered a striped pencil skirt over a floral dress, with just a few inches of the dress' fabric peeking out from the hem. The trick to looking fabulous like Diane (rather than like you got dressed in the dark) by combining two starkly different patterns is using the shade of the stripes to pull out a matching colors in the dress.<br /> <br /> While I absolutely love the uniqueness of this look, I can't exactly afford anything Derek Lam, so I created some high-to-low inspiration to explore:<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <center><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;"> <div style="position: relative;"> <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/inspiration_diane_kruger/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=45797415"><img alt="inspiration: Diane Kruger" border="0" height="600" src="http://embed.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/cid/45797415/id/rdMl2nA8SimjIqKJ2BGp4A/size/y.jpg" title="inspiration: Diane Kruger" width="600" /></a></div> </div> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/inspiration_diane_kruger/set?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste&amp;id=45797415">inspiration: Diane Kruger</a> by <a href="http://hopevictoria.polyvore.com/?.embedder=1831963&amp;.svc=copypaste">hopevictoria</a> featuring <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/knit_skirts/shop?query=knit+skirts">knit skirts</a></small></div> </center><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: left;"> Would you wear this trend?</div> <div style="text-align: left;"> <br /></div> <div style="text-align: left;"> <br /></div> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-5560976874803479052?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/WKDGrPBVjFH1EJ0_AdzNFxU2fgk/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/WKDGrPBVjFH1EJ0_AdzNFxU2fgk/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/WKDGrPBVjFH1EJ0_AdzNFxU2fgk/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/WKDGrPBVjFH1EJ0_AdzNFxU2fgk/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/SYX-deVM3EI" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com3http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/03/inspiration-diane-kruger.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-55925801531221474582012-03-19T13:27:00.000-04:002012-03-19T13:27:22.003-04:002012-03-19T13:27:22.003-04:00I'm not much of a sneakers girl, but the new tennis shoe collaboration between renowned Italian shoemaker <a href="http://www.superga-usa.com/">Superga</a> and <a href="http://www.therow.com/">The Row</a>, the luxury brand created by phenoms (and personal girl crushes) Ashley Olsen and Mary-Kate Olsen, is perfect for spring.<br /> <br /> Retailing for $190, the tennis shoes are available in a few varieties of canvas or cashmere in neutral colors. The <a href="http://www.therow.com/superga-for-the-row/the-row-for-superga-linen-52.html?color=Deep+Blue&amp;size=35">deep blue linen</a> are my favorites:<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4675-sweden.voxcdn.com/therow/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/470x470/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/_/M/_MG_0004_72_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4675-sweden.voxcdn.com/therow/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/470x470/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/_/M/_MG_0004_72_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> I'm picturing them with sheer socks and sundresses for spring and summer...<br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-5592580153122147458?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/zvp0zhQcZk8n47FfoQHe5UVSgq4/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/zvp0zhQcZk8n47FfoQHe5UVSgq4/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/zvp0zhQcZk8n47FfoQHe5UVSgq4/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/zvp0zhQcZk8n47FfoQHe5UVSgq4/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/r4makAibwb4" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com1http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/03/must-have-monday-superga-for-row.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-61701876930104494692012-03-18T11:23:00.000-04:002012-03-18T11:23:00.739-04:002012-03-18T11:23:00.739-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TCbcuZ_H840/T1rI4e51aBI/AAAAAAAACFU/b53_8HQCI-8/s1600/Picture+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TCbcuZ_H840/T1rI4e51aBI/AAAAAAAACFU/b53_8HQCI-8/s640/Picture+6.png" width="420" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rHIjIxuGrpg/T1rIwO6Z8RI/AAAAAAAACFM/xccPNKb5g18/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div> I met Angelina of <a href="http://www.flourishandfancy.com/">Flourish and Fancy</a> a few years ago when destiny made us office mates at work. Angelina is the definition of fabulous, and I often tell her she's a modern-day Liz Taylor. Despite her always busy schedule (working as a copywriter, spending time her husband, friends and family, teaching Zumba and running <a href="http://www.opheliaterrariums.com/">Ophelia Terrariums</a>), Angelina started a fun blog about entertaining, cocktails, food and crafts (<a href="http://www.flourishandfancy.com/2012/03/serving-up-sangria.html">red sangria</a>, anyone?)...and while she may not technically be a style blogger, she is super fashionable! Angelina is continually inspiring, and you should definitely check out her blog (which has been featured by <a href="http://www.skinnygirlcocktails.com/">SkinnyGirl Cocktails</a>) to inspire your own projects!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yutfh6YlKgs/T1rHTR53VrI/AAAAAAAACFE/UGPL8rbNUtQ/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yutfh6YlKgs/T1rHTR53VrI/AAAAAAAACFE/UGPL8rbNUtQ/s640/Picture+4.png" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Although Angelina isn't a fashion blogger, she is stylish and stunning!</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [photo by <a href="http://www.monikablissmorris.com/">Monika Bliss Morris</a>] </div> <br /> <b>Where are you from?</b><br /> Well, I was a military brat, so I'm sort of from everywhere. Mainly the South. But I live in Chattanooga, TN.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1brU1eCqTw4/T1ORydJB5EI/AAAAAAAAAVo/Mw1Go-RhXgs/s640/securedownload.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1brU1eCqTw4/T1ORydJB5EI/AAAAAAAAAVo/Mw1Go-RhXgs/s400/securedownload.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> Angelina's remedy to the recent tornadoes in Tennessee—the "Riding Out the Storm" cocktail [<a href="http://www.flourishandfancy.com/2012/03/riding-out-storm.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> <b>How did you choose your blog's title?</b><br /> I'm a working girl who has a lot of hobbies and interests and even more leisurely pursuits and activities I'd love to explore. My blogging journey is an opportunity for me to share my knowledge, lessons and outcomes with readers; whether that be about hosting and entertaining, discovering new recipes and cocktails, divulging creative, helpful tips or trying new DIY projects. It's a place of constant exploration and growth, hence the word "flourish." I also tend to gravitate towards the finer things in life: champagne and sushi, sunset soirées, pearls and high heels, and the Elizabeth Taylors and Audrey Hepburns of the world. Hence the use of "fancy."<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cy529eJsFYc/TxCM3LJtc4I/AAAAAAAAASs/QBBFWLrZH5s/s400/IMG_0555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cy529eJsFYc/TxCM3LJtc4I/AAAAAAAAASs/QBBFWLrZH5s/s400/IMG_0555.JPG" width="298" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> delicious empanadas inspired by Angelina's recent trip to Argentina, her husband's native country</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.flourishandfancy.com/2012/01/empanadas-saltenas.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> <b>What item in your closet/house could you not live without?</b><br /> I'd have to go with my Macbook.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-50iOa9mC6_M/Tu4qS4y3vSI/AAAAAAAAAQs/8CEDzqysz_I/s400/IMG_0490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-50iOa9mC6_M/Tu4qS4y3vSI/AAAAAAAAAQs/8CEDzqysz_I/s400/IMG_0490.JPG" width="298" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> the Sparkling White Cranberry Cosmo</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.flourishandfancy.com/2011/12/cocktails-and-christmas.html">source</a>]</div> <br /> <b>What inspires you?</b><br /> Positivity, optimism and laughter.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m6wl-QJVnAc/Tt7kTsC1Y-I/AAAAAAAAAMA/D15SV97k0XI/s400/IMG_0365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m6wl-QJVnAc/Tt7kTsC1Y-I/AAAAAAAAAMA/D15SV97k0XI/s400/IMG_0365.JPG" width="298" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> a genius idea for freezing pesto</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.flourishandfancy.com/2011/12/bippity-boppity-pesto.html">source</a>]</div> <b><br />What do you love most about blogging?</b><br /> I'm a full-time writer, so what I love most about blogging is that I'm able to write about the topics and interests I enjoy on my own time and in my own words. It's a creative outlet without expectations. There are no deadlines, no restrictions and the only client is me. And I must say, I rather enjoy working with that client.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o1Fe2nntc_Y/TzHnEDx3umI/AAAAAAAAATE/t5bU0KtiTXg/s400/IMG_0799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o1Fe2nntc_Y/TzHnEDx3umI/AAAAAAAAATE/t5bU0KtiTXg/s400/IMG_0799.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> drunken gummy bears</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.flourishandfancy.com/2012/02/soaked-and-saturated-gummy-bears.html">source</a>]<br /> <br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-6170187693010449469?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/k6WVbGxESX5u5vXHGi5kSZWbwhs/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/k6WVbGxESX5u5vXHGi5kSZWbwhs/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/k6WVbGxESX5u5vXHGi5kSZWbwhs/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/k6WVbGxESX5u5vXHGi5kSZWbwhs/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/qDl1-_JkNHs" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com3http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/03/spotlight-angelina-of-flourish-and.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-9940246750293503412012-03-16T11:46:00.000-04:002012-03-16T11:46:58.233-04:002012-03-16T11:46:58.233-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60nQq5PrhKM/T2M8MmV3WQI/AAAAAAAACGg/Nm-f29rz8n0/s1600/IMG_0413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60nQq5PrhKM/T2M8MmV3WQI/AAAAAAAACGg/Nm-f29rz8n0/s640/IMG_0413.JPG" width="425" /></a></div> <br /> &nbsp;Everyone I know has been talking about <i>The Hunger Games </i>for months, and I'm so excited to finally see the movie when it hits theaters next Friday! For anyone who hasn't read the book, Katniss Everdeen (played in the movie by the stunning Jennifer Lawrence) is a young girl chosen to represent her region in a battle to the death. She is whisked away to the Capitol, where she is transformed into "the girl on fire."<br /> <br /> I decided to take some inspiration from Katniss' appearance in the books and all the gold Jennifer Lawrence has been wowing us with on the red carpet. This look is perfect if you're attending a midnight premiere party for the movie or just going out. For a daytime version, take the eye shadow down a notch and stick with neutral lip shade.<br /> <br /> <span style="font-size: x-small;">[Disclaimer: I am not a makeup artist in any way; I just think it's fun to play around with makeup sometimes. Also, please ignore the messy background.]</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-size: large;">Katniss/<i>The Hunger Games</i>-inspired Makeup Tutorial:</span><br /> <br /> 1. Start by applying foundation primer, foundation and bronzer (if you use it) as you normally would (I used <a href="http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P264900">The POREfessional Primer by Benefit</a>, <a href="http://store.bareescentuals.com/bareMinerals-SPF-15-Foundation/MasterSPF15Found,default,pd.html?cgid=BE_SUB_FOUNDATION">Bare Escentuals Original SPF 15 Foundation</a> and <a href="http://store.bareescentuals.com/bareMinerals-Warmth-All-Over-Face-Color/50466,default,pd.html?start=1">Bare Escentuals Warmth All-Over Face Color</a>).<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lY_fVXG5pUY/T2M9wu_ijgI/AAAAAAAACGk/vsn5256Cc6o/s1600/IMG_0130.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lY_fVXG5pUY/T2M9wu_ijgI/AAAAAAAACGk/vsn5256Cc6o/s320/IMG_0130.JPG" width="213" /></a></div> <br /> 2. Prime your eyelids with clear or corresponding primer (I used <a href="http://www.bareescentuals.com/Prime-Time-Brightening-Eyelid-Primer/51706,default,pd.html?start=2&amp;cgid=BE_EYE_PRIMERS">Bare Escentuals Prime Time Brightening Eye Lid Primer</a>). This layer of primer helps your eye shadow stick and wear well all day/night.<br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lvWdtSv4zUA/T2M9x3wyKUI/AAAAAAAACGo/SuHQKYt9dz8/s1600/IMG_0245.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lvWdtSv4zUA/T2M9x3wyKUI/AAAAAAAACGo/SuHQKYt9dz8/s400/IMG_0245.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div> <br /> 3. Sweep a loose powder eye shadow in a glittering gold shade over your entire eyelid, all the way up to the brow (I used <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bare-Escentuals-Aztec-Gold-Shadow/dp/B004H9TII0">Bare Escentuals in Aztec Gold</a>). With your eyeshadow brush, continue with the gold shadow in an angled shape to the outer corners of your eyes to created a winged, edgier look. The gold color really makes the impact here, so apply liberally!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ6OXMHpLu0/T2NEyfToItI/AAAAAAAACH0/4DyuLdQZX9A/s1600/IMG_0281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ6OXMHpLu0/T2NEyfToItI/AAAAAAAACH0/4DyuLdQZX9A/s400/IMG_0281.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> 4. Brush a dark charcoal eye shadow across the crease and highlight just under the brow bone (I used POPbeauty eye shadow [<a href="http://www.popbeauty.co.uk/Popbeauty_Products/Eyes/Lid_Monochrome/Index.html">similar</a>]).<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mx76fDxOSvI/T2M9yiFSiaI/AAAAAAAACGw/A-mpuqbVzNs/s1600/IMG_0295.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mx76fDxOSvI/T2M9yiFSiaI/AAAAAAAACGw/A-mpuqbVzNs/s400/IMG_0295.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div> <br /> 5. With a thick black eye liner and liner brush, line your top lid and just outside your eye, creating a subtle cat-eye shape (I used <a href="http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P262304&amp;shouldPaginate=true&amp;categoryId=5648">Tarte EmphasEYES Waterproof Clay Shadow/Liner</a>.)<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lgANdOUMKXw/T2M_hyzcUSI/AAAAAAAACHM/lI0stqQncXU/s1600/IMG_0318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lgANdOUMKXw/T2M_hyzcUSI/AAAAAAAACHM/lI0stqQncXU/s400/IMG_0318.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> 6. Use ample amounts of black mascara (I used <a href="http://www.rimmellondon.com/uk/products/glameyes-day-2-night-mascara/">Rimmel Glam'Eyes Day 2 Night Mascara</a>). You could also add some false lashes for an extra touch.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wvH23p_t1i0/T2NAzfMjAZI/AAAAAAAACHU/H3oqVLaHhcI/s1600/IMG_0340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wvH23p_t1i0/T2NAzfMjAZI/AAAAAAAACHU/H3oqVLaHhcI/s400/IMG_0340.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> 7. For the lips, start with a lip primer (I used <a href="http://www.mereadesso.com/mereadesso-lip-treats.php">Mareadesso Woman Lip Treats</a>) to help the color stay.<br /> <br /> 8. Next, apply a glossy lipstick in an orange shade (I used <a href="http://www.target.com/p/COVERGIRL-Natureluxe-Gloss-Balm-Collection/CoverGirl-Natureluxe-Gloss-Balm/-/A-13071727?ref=tgt_adv_xasd0001&amp;AFID=Performics_rewardStyle&amp;LNM=Primary">CoverGirl Natureluxe Gloss Balm in Coral</a>). The glossy texture helps the next step work, so choose a product that is stickier than a matte cream.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4KTuSwh7mSE/T2NA0WAPrLI/AAAAAAAACHc/ETVRX4SU8lg/s1600/IMG_0365.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4KTuSwh7mSE/T2NA0WAPrLI/AAAAAAAACHc/ETVRX4SU8lg/s320/IMG_0365.JPG" width="212" /></a> </div> <br /> 9. With the same loose gold shadow you used for your eyes, transfer some of the powder to a paper towel or tissue (this measure will keep your sticky fingers from getting lip color in your eye shadow pot).<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> &nbsp;<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DM_0B43KacA/T2NBHbazImI/AAAAAAAACHk/8B4wwQMd3kQ/s1600/IMG_0369.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DM_0B43KacA/T2NBHbazImI/AAAAAAAACHk/8B4wwQMd3kQ/s320/IMG_0369.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> 10. Using your fingers, dab the gold powder onto your lips, starting at the center of your bottom lip. The gold should only be in the middle, creating a sunburst effect. Apply gold powder to your top lip to match.<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYN1hvapPks/T2M9zqMYb5I/AAAAAAAACG8/BaHFco4dZqw/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYN1hvapPks/T2M9zqMYb5I/AAAAAAAACG8/BaHFco4dZqw/s400/IMG_0377.JPG" width="266" /></a></div> <br /> For an additional <i>Hunger Games</i> touch, braid your hair in Katniss' signature style.<br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-994024675029350341?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/rt8JnIEsEbzIpIrEmuULFwOYR8c/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/rt8JnIEsEbzIpIrEmuULFwOYR8c/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/rt8JnIEsEbzIpIrEmuULFwOYR8c/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/rt8JnIEsEbzIpIrEmuULFwOYR8c/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/-zH6b3KKHZc" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com8http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/03/makeup-tutorial-hunger-games.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-79872895674701411362012-03-13T12:57:00.000-04:002012-03-13T12:57:07.604-04:002012-03-13T12:57:07.604-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1QAD1jkSy0A/T1rP7MxocMI/AAAAAAAACGM/Iizh36FLpx4/s1600/IMG_0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1QAD1jkSy0A/T1rP7MxocMI/AAAAAAAACGM/Iizh36FLpx4/s640/IMG_0099.JPG" width="426" />&nbsp;</a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <br /></div> I may not have been born in the South, but I've spent the majority of my life living there. Every Southern girl I know owns at least one pair of cowboy boots, and I couldn't leave my favorite pair of <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2010/08/product-review-justinfossil.html">Justin+Fossil boots</a> behind when we moved above the Mason-Dixon. I usually find multiple opportunities to wear these boots during any season, any weather. They're a staple in my wardrobe, and wearing them now reminds me of home.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BPPE-hJhlyo/T1rPyLvbydI/AAAAAAAACFs/u9vuYyUNLQc/s1600/IMG_0051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BPPE-hJhlyo/T1rPyLvbydI/AAAAAAAACFs/u9vuYyUNLQc/s640/IMG_0051.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uaJb_OtoZtM/T1rP2prQ9OI/AAAAAAAACF8/cEpacJThIqY/s1600/IMG_0080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uaJb_OtoZtM/T1rP2prQ9OI/AAAAAAAACF8/cEpacJThIqY/s640/IMG_0080.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b6lCe6700fI/T1rP5cMKGtI/AAAAAAAACGE/9C0Qk7IsKVs/s1600/IMG_0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b6lCe6700fI/T1rP5cMKGtI/AAAAAAAACGE/9C0Qk7IsKVs/s640/IMG_0090.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> On this sunny Sunday, we took Eleanor to one of the local dog parks to socialize. She usually just hides behind us, but we're trying to get her more comfortable around other dogs. <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WBjiigUQvcQ/T1rPt3wMJ1I/AAAAAAAACFc/U5uHtu2SR0A/s1600/IMG_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WBjiigUQvcQ/T1rPt3wMJ1I/AAAAAAAACFc/U5uHtu2SR0A/s640/IMG_0004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KuCh0qTxiMI/T1rPwdQP3QI/AAAAAAAACFk/sp5kH6mNGXY/s1600/IMG_0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KuCh0qTxiMI/T1rPwdQP3QI/AAAAAAAACFk/sp5kH6mNGXY/s640/IMG_0020.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> <br /> [boots: Justin+Fossil// shirt and watch: Fossil// denim and peacoat: Uniqlo// vest and belt: Forever 21// bag: Steve Madden// bracelet: JewelMint// earrings: gift from my friend Anne// necklaces: Lucky Brand and my own creation]<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-7987289567470141136?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FVMg-2JA3_EVsKY1SoT6wRG8o60/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FVMg-2JA3_EVsKY1SoT6wRG8o60/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FVMg-2JA3_EVsKY1SoT6wRG8o60/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FVMg-2JA3_EVsKY1SoT6wRG8o60/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/kziwyX9-jIg" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com6http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/03/southern-charm.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-38058276749384938362012-03-12T08:10:00.002-04:002012-03-12T08:12:17.041-04:002012-03-12T08:12:17.041-04:00<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-704zZMAbxUw/T0un3GQuvBI/AAAAAAAACEo/ddP_K8IcU7o/s1600/P122751_hero.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-704zZMAbxUw/T0un3GQuvBI/AAAAAAAACEo/ddP_K8IcU7o/s1600/P122751_hero.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P122751&amp;om_mmc=esv103264-GG&amp;om_kwpur=104630346&amp;ppc_crid=7049724617&amp;sbanner=us_search&amp;esvcid=S1330358191_ADOGOE_AGI1118026_CRE7049724617_TID104630346_RFDd3d3Lmdvb2dsZS5jb20%3d">source</a>] </div> <br /> <a href="http://www.clinique.com/product/1605/4772/Makeup/Lipsticks/Almost-Lipstick/index.tmpl?cm_mmc=Google-_-ENG_ENG%7CAlmost%20Lipstick%7CNon%20Brand%7CBroad%7CMOBILE-_-Makeup%7CLipstick%7CAlmost%20Lipstick%7CX%7CColor%20Specific%7CCAT%7COK-_-black%20honey%20lipstick">Black Honey Almost Lipstick by Clinique</a> is a throwback for me—I used to wear this shade during my last year of middle school when makeup was still a new frontier. Black Honey was an upgrade to my <a href="http://www.drugstore.com/bonne-bell-lip-smacker-lip-gloss-dr-pepper/qxp20619">Bonne Belle Lip Smackers in Dr. Pepper</a> (which I still wear year round...don't judge me). On <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/02/must-have-monday-buxom-big-healthy-lip.html">my recent quest</a> for new lip color at <a href="http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P122751&amp;om_mmc=esv103264-GG&amp;om_kwpur=104630346&amp;ppc_crid=7049724617&amp;sbanner=us_search&amp;esvcid=S1330358191_ADOGOE_AGI1118026_CRE7049724617_TID104630346_RFDd3d3Lmdvb2dsZS5jb20%3d">Sephora</a>, I remembered the simple beauty that is Black Honey.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oW0HwcdmDKA/T0uojtWtZhI/AAAAAAAACEw/3aA-cEy6gJ4/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-27+at+10.58.31+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oW0HwcdmDKA/T0uojtWtZhI/AAAAAAAACEw/3aA-cEy6gJ4/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-27+at+10.58.31+AM.png" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.clinique.com/product/1605/4772/Makeup/Lipsticks/Almost-Lipstick/index.tmpl?cm_mmc=Google-_-ENG_ENG%7CAlmost%20Lipstick%7CNon%20Brand%7CBroad%7CMOBILE-_-Makeup%7CLipstick%7CAlmost%20Lipstick%7CX%7CColor%20Specific%7CCAT%7COK-_-black%20honey%20lipstick">source</a>]</div> <br /> Black Honey is a classic, and for good reason. I firmly believe this shade can work on anyone. Just two swipes over the lips, and the result is a pretty berry just a shade darker than my normal lip color (Clinique refers to the color as "deep blackened raisin"). A few more layers, and this shade creates a vampy look. The consistency is great, the formula keeps your lips moisturized all day, and I only reapply every few hours after eating or drinking. It's the perfect shade&nbsp; for any skin color, any season, day or night. Truly an investment piece for your cosmetic bag.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-3805827674938493836?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/effOjDTuUWlhyxlG2x8PdptGi2U/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/effOjDTuUWlhyxlG2x8PdptGi2U/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/effOjDTuUWlhyxlG2x8PdptGi2U/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/effOjDTuUWlhyxlG2x8PdptGi2U/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/V067SZs-Ytk" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com3http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/03/must-have-monday-almost-lipstick-in.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-32475961694747017282012-02-29T12:53:00.000-05:002012-02-29T12:53:01.800-05:002012-02-29T12:53:01.800-05:00Awards season has officially drawn to a close as the Academy Awards wrapped last Sunday night. We still don't have a television in our apartment, so I followed the fashion via Twitter and other sites. Here are a few of my favorites of the night: <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> Michelle Williams in Louis Vuitton</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/c9567d57a63898c1_140011627_10.preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/c9567d57a63898c1_140011627_10.preview.jpg" width="424" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.popsugar.com/Oscars-2012-Pictures-21931679?slide=60">source</a>]</div> <br /> Michelle has been so on point lately, and this layered LV gown was my favorite of the night. The color is gorgeous, the silhouette looks fabulous, and the gown was fitted to Michelle perfectly. I can't compliment it enough. I loved her matching lip color and the pink minaudiere.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> Jessica Chastain in Alexander McQueen</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/bf0228e39a243c10_140004416_10.preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/bf0228e39a243c10_140004416_10.preview.jpg" width="424" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.popsugar.com/Oscars-2012-Pictures-21931679?slide=2">source</a>]</div> Alexander McQueen pieces have such an artistic quality, and Jessica sparkled in this detailed gown. I also loved her classic hair and makeup. The entire look was flawless.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> Emma Stone in Giambattista Valli</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://media4.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/2cabaf306a4c607a_140011665_10.preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media4.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/2cabaf306a4c607a_140011665_10.preview.jpg" width="430" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.popsugar.com/Oscars-2012-Pictures-21931679?slide=58">source</a>]</div> <br /> I wasn't sure how I felt about this gown at first. I've loved pretty much everything Emma has worn lately, but the first photo I saw made the bow look odd. Now that I've revisited the look, I like it. The color is a perfect match for Emma's fair skin and red hair, and the bow makes it stand out from the crowd. In the sea of beige and tan dresses we've seen lately, this punchy fuchsia was daring and different.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> Kristen Wiig in J. Mendel</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/ddbd1a660394fac6_140012021_10.preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media2.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/ddbd1a660394fac6_140012021_10.preview.jpg" width="420" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.popsugar.com/Oscars-2012-Pictures-21931679?slide=103">source</a>]</div> <br /> The shade of this J. Mendel gown is similar to the Bill Blass she wore to the <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/01/fashion-recap-golden-globes.html">Golden Globes</a>, but I like the detailing of this one.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"> Tina Fey in Carolina Herrara</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://media4.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/9aea604148385048_140009594_10.preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media4.onsugar.com/files/2012/02/08/0/192/1922398/9aea604148385048_140009594_10.preview.jpg" width="424" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.popsugar.com/Oscars-2012-Pictures-21931679?slide=35">source</a>]</div> <br /> <a href="http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/01/my-day-with-jimmy-fallon-and-tina-fey.html">My bff</a> (jkjkjk) Tina always gets flack for choosing off-the-wall gowns, but I really loved everything about this look. Very classy, yet a little unexpected with the belt and tier.<br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-3247596169474701728?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/0aoN4xehr7XX6ZVwON4vDoOWzC8/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/0aoN4xehr7XX6ZVwON4vDoOWzC8/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/0aoN4xehr7XX6ZVwON4vDoOWzC8/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/0aoN4xehr7XX6ZVwON4vDoOWzC8/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/hz4pyp-Hw9Y" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com4http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/02/inspiration-academy-awards.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7138724122952466791.post-9403769472715876402012-02-27T13:57:00.000-05:002012-02-27T13:57:46.343-05:002012-02-27T13:57:46.343-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VR98oTFAIc4/T0uX7zRTskI/AAAAAAAACEY/YWrajrnvSWM/s1600/ZB5197919_main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VR98oTFAIc4/T0uX7zRTskI/AAAAAAAACEY/YWrajrnvSWM/s640/ZB5197919_main.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;"> [<a href="http://www.fossil.com/en_US/shop/women/handbag_collections/vintage_re_issue/vintage_re_issue_weekender-zb5197p.html?parent_category_rn=316085&amp;departmentCategoryId=30000&amp;N=0&amp;Ns=p_wsc3%7C0%7C%7Cp_weight%7C0&amp;pn=c&amp;cm_vc=316093&amp;rec=2&amp;imagePath=ZB5197919">source</a>]</div> <br /> In my eyes, Fossil can do no wrong, especially in the design and quality of their handbags. I've been carrying Fossil bags for about five years now, and I have always been impressed by their ability to stand the test of time while still looking fabulous.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jAnkWEEj4Eg/T0uX9AP-GSI/AAAAAAAACEg/9OC5DDeNv3Q/s1600/ZB5197919_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jAnkWEEj4Eg/T0uX9AP-GSI/AAAAAAAACEg/9OC5DDeNv3Q/s640/ZB5197919_4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> I have had the handbag bug for a few weeks now, and I recently stumbled upon this beauty: the Vintage Re-Issue Weekender with linen panels. The leather is classic, but the linen offers a unique detail that's perfect for spring. I love the cross-stitch-inspired design on the linen as well, which really plays up the vintage inspiration of the bag. The shape and size are perfect for traveling or even a day exploring a new city.<br /> <br /> It's beautiful in New York today, and the weather makes me even more ready for spring!<br /> <br /> <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/7138724122952466791-940376947271587640?l=www.aflatteringtale.com' alt='' /></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/xQTbz_9O8X7jMLMSA5pnZlokkHY/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/xQTbz_9O8X7jMLMSA5pnZlokkHY/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/xQTbz_9O8X7jMLMSA5pnZlokkHY/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/xQTbz_9O8X7jMLMSA5pnZlokkHY/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/AFlatteringTale/~4/X2WObT6Q-eY" height="1" width="1"/>Hopehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01134230374090889073noreply@blogger.com6http://www.aflatteringtale.com/2012/02/must-have-monday-vintage-re-issue.html