Down and Out Chic

Down and Out Beauty: Easy Foundation Tip

2012-02-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

I just want to give you a quick tip today on how to make your foundation last all day and maintain its true color. Those of us with oily or combination skin are very familiar with the midday shine through the t-zone and either disappearing or yellowing foundation. Everyone is quick to blame the foundation but over active oil glands are the true culprits. Our sebum mixes with the oils in the foundation causing oxidation or slightly emulsifying the foundation making it disappear or slid off your face.

via all you

The trick to prevent this from happening is so simple its almost comical. After you've applied your foundation, split apart a two ply tissue and using the single ply, press against your face. It helps to divide your face into sections while doing this to make sure you've absorbed the maximum amount of oil. Not only does this add longevity to your makeup but it sets the foundation without powder, smooths the look of pores and gives your face the look of bare skin. Since the tissue only absorbs oil, you can do this multiple times throughout the day to reduce shine.

via panik

If you are using powder or mineral foundations you can have quite the opposite problem with too powdery a finish. To take away that powdery edge, fill a spray bottle with purifyed water or rose water and after you've finished applying your foundation, spritz the water evenly over your face. You just want to dampen your skin and allow it to air dry. This will leave the coverage from the mineral foundation but take away the dry finish.

- Layne
Layne is a licensed aesthetician and makeup artist working at Urban Sanctuary in Athens, GA. She writes the makeup and beauty column, Down and Out Beauty. Click here to read her previous posts.

Decor: Cross-stitched anchor

2012-02-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

How awesome is this large cross-stitched anchor ($160) by Jessica Decker? As much as I love mini versions of just about anything, I also like giant replicas as decor...remember the giant key? I have to admit though, I'm a little obsessed with anchors right now.

Full disclosure - I'm actually thinking about getting a new anchor tattoo on my left arm so perhaps I'm a little partial to the image. The oversized cross-stitch is just the icing on the cake.

found via design*sponge

Weekend Excursion (Washington DC)

2012-02-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

It has been a long time since I've shared any personal photos with you all. Too long in fact. This means I haven't been bringing my camera out as much as I should. Bad Christina.

B and I went to DC this weekend, my first time ever visiting the city. We spent some time with family and did a speed tour of the monuments. I definitely hope to spend more time exploring the city in the future, preferably wearing more comfortable shoes. My favorite sites were the National Gallery and the Lincoln Memorial (I mean, he's just so huge!). Driving home to North Carolina on Sunday, we actually ran across a few snow flakes too. The only snow I've seen all season. All and all, it was a pretty lovely weekend.

What about you? Have you been anywhere new recently? Any favorite spots in DC I should check out next time?

Interiors: Rustic Grey

2012-02-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

I found these charming, (mostly) monochromatic, rustic spaces on Nü Home's inspiration page. I think the words, "refined bohemian" describe the style here, but perhaps you have a better description? Either way, I'd love to have a country home away from home with a bathroom just like that one.

images: Nü Home

Gift Giving: My Roots Lie Here

2012-02-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

The My Roots Lie Here collection was designed by Children Inspire Design to "tell a story of how families come together from all parts of the world." I think these prints are the perfect gift for children (perhaps for a nursery?) and adults alike and I would love one of my own featuring Puerto Rico. Check out the selection here ($40 each).

Under $100: Spring Shopping

2012-02-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

1/ scratchy line zip back vest $60 via topshop 2/ patent sidewalk skimmer $98 via madewell 3/ pyramid metal tip clutch $26.86 via asos 4/ studded tie-back ballet flats $49.95 via gap 5/ printed sheath dress $59.95 via gap 6/ spot bow front top $70 via oasis 7/ small peach and brass wood triangle necklace $15 via tri & gull 8/ naked at the beach nail color trio $36 via mary jo matsumoto 9/ sonreier necklace via webbwebb $92 10/ always skinny flood jeans $69.95 via gap 11/ diamond weave clutch $85 via need supply co.

Do you ever go shopping and realize that everything you're trying on or planning to purchase falls into a specific color palette? I had that experience this weekend when I purchased a few things from the GAP (all of which are pictured above) and I realized that I'm really liking the dusty pink, peach, black combination. Every piece is versatile and can be mixed and matched with other colors as well which makes me gives this palette two enthusiastic thumbs up. Plus it kind of works with Valentine's Day. Speaking of, I hope you have a great one!

Six Things

2012-02-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

1) vintage brass necklace $25 by julie garland

2) olive, hand dyed scarf $50 by dear june

3) linen sachets set of two $20 by gardenmis

4) little pyramid clay stud earrings $24 by blessbless

5) linen tote bag $78 by independent reign

6) vintage brass porthole mirror $95 via pine and main

Whew, is it Monday already?! Cheers to a new week friends and what better way to start the week with some recent handmade and vintage favorites? Check out all my of my Etsy faves here and you can check out my previous curated faves right here.

Art: Miki Sato

2012-02-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

Mixed media work by Canadian artist Miki Sato. Her layering technique gives the pieces a tactile quality that you can't help but reach out and touch (assuming one would be so bold). Check out her work here and here.

Wish list 2.8.12

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

1) This is my favorite print ($40 for 8x10) from Emma Leonard's recent work. Love the color combination and I think it would look pretty rad hanging in our house.

2) A jersey knot bracelet ($30) in simple stripes is perfect for warmer weather. I have a goal to wear more bracelets this year, I just need to start a collection I actually think I'd wear and this one looks especially comfy.

3) Made from upcycled leather, this simple wrap clutch ($48) by Stitch & Hammer would be a nice switch from my too-big workbag.

4) I've been on a mad search for a neutral (as in no pattern, not too loud) dress for my sister-in-law's wedding. This is proving to be much harder than I imagined. This embossed ponte number ($128) in grey is neutral but the texture makes it interesting. I'm still debating but this one is definitely in the running.

5) When I'm not at the office, you'll probably catch me with a fedora on my head and this striped number ($12.94) would translate as easily at the beach as it would around town. Plus, the price is right.

Anything new on your wish list? Do share!

Down and Out Beauty: Fool proof combinations

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

As a makeup artist I love to try new textures and techniques with makeup. I find myself always looking for that next big thing! All this searching keeps me on my toes and now I have a very long list of favorite makeup looks and color combinations.

Blue eyes/ copper shadow and Green eyes/ purple shadow:

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These color combos are all about using the color wheel and picking eye shadows that are opposite your eye color. Putting opposites together will bring the subtle nuances of your eye color forward and the color will appear much more saturated. The most common colors of blue eyes have orange as their opposite. Most people aren't going to be down with orange eye shadow so the next best thing is copper. Olive green eyes opposite is violet so you can pick any color from burgundy to royal blue to make your green eyes pop. This technique makes you feel beautiful with what you have not just that your makeup looks good.

Auburn hair/ grey eyeshadow:

via here

The combination is one of my favorites and is so under used. Christina Hendricks seems to use it more than any other makeup look and it does so much for her eye and skin color. The cool grey highlights her porcelain skin and makes her hair look even more ginger.

One all over color:

via here

Matching eye, lip, cheek and even nail color is so simple but somehow looks like you've put so much thought into into your makeup. I like using either apricot or champagne shades for monochromatic makeup.

Deep skin tone/ bright cheek:

via here

It just doesn't get more beautiful than dark skin with a pop of color on the cheeks. If you have combination or oily skin you may want to stick to matte colors to keep unwanted shine down. Having such a bright cheek means you can be quite light on the rest of your makeup. Just add some mascara and a glossy lip and you'll look very put together.

- Layne
Layne is a licensed aesthetician and makeup artist working at Urban Sanctuary in Athens, GA. She writes the makeup and beauty column, Down and Out Beauty. Click here to read her previous posts.

Gift Giving: Chocolate Editions

2012-02-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't love receiving a little chocolate every now and again, especially chocolate that's been created in small, handmade batches like these from Chocolate Editions. The neopolitan bar ($10) is my pick but the salted dark Valentine edition bar ($6) looks pretty yummy as well. Check out the full selection right here.

Reader Discount: Harabu House

2012-02-02T07:30:00.000-05:00

It's reader discount time and who doesn't love a good discount!? I'm excited about this discount because I have a list of items that I love in this shop (including those adorable felt bunnies). Receive 20% off your entire purchase at Harabu House by using code "DOC20" at checkout. There are tons of eco-friendly and independant labels in the shop that you might recognize including Mar y Sol bags and Ferm Living of Denmark. Don't forget to enter the code to receive your discount. Offer expires in one week from today. Thanks Harabu House!

Decor: Vintage Art + Simple Arrangements

2012-01-31T15:36:00.002-05:00

From a collection to a single piece, I love the look of a simple vintage art piece hung just right. If you like this look, you might also like this round up of classic portraits used in decor. Hope you're having a good week friends!

images: 1) design*sponge 2) gregory mellor 3) bloese m

Shop: Brook Farm Generalstore

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Brook Farm General Store is a brick and mortar/online shop based in Brooklyn. This well curated shop includes many items made in the U.S.A. at variety of price points so there's a little something for everyone, including the kiddos. I love these recycled tooth brushes ($10) and this leather and canvas tool bag ($110) that I'd use for overnight trips. So many goodies in this shop! Check it out here.

Wish list 1.26.12

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

1) Do you see those little blue shapes on the top of that dress ($80.57)? They're cats and they're awesome! Cheeky but still very wearable. I need this dress.
2) Nautical never gets old for me and this anchor bracelet ($60) by Miansai is the perfect blend of casual meets chic. I'd wear it to dress up a plain tee and jeans.
3) What's better than a pair of comfy, colorful oxfords ($148) to transition out of boots for Spring? The little tassels on the shoelaces adds the perfect finishing touch.

Can you tell that I'm getting ready for warmer weather?

Interiors: Country Home in Tasmania

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

This house tour, as seen in Home Life, features a country home located in Tasmania that was built from salvaged and reclaimed wood. The bedroom attic is what initially caught my attention (I mean, HELLO) but the whole home space is filled with rustic charm. Do you love this home as much as I do? I'd move to Tasmania just to sleep in that bedroom. Never mind that someone else owns the house. The details could be worked out, I'm sure of it. Check out the full tour here.

found via planete-deco

Interiors: Dark and Lovely

2012-01-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

It has been dreary, cold and wet in Raleigh for the past few days. Weather like this puts me in the mood for dark, warm, comforting interiors. The two bedrooms are my favorite. Very romantic, no?

1) house and home 2) planete deco 3) homelife 4) remodelista 5) chocolate creative via decor8 6) mi casa es su casa 7) pierre-jean verger 8&9) the design files

Calligraphy for V-Day

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

B and I really don't celebrate Valentine's Day in the conventional sense. Neither of us gets particularly excited about this holiday (I'm still recovering from Christmas in February) but we do exchange cards, a tradition I very much enjoy. This year, I've decided to go with a simple hand-calligraphed card from Sparrow Nest Script. The words are beautifully rendered and the message is clear. I won't tell you which card I bought on the off-chance that B sees this post, but needless to say, I think I've found a winner! Check out the full selection of V-day cards here.

Wish list 1.20.12

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

1) I'm in the market for a new eye cream and this mimosa and rosehip oil blend ($38) by Coldspring Apothecary contains natural ingredients without all of the scary chemicals that I have no interest in putting right near my eye balls (know what I mean?)

2) Made from clay, the Space Cadet necklace ($50) makes a statement but would work with just about any outfit.

3) I'm itching for another tattoo, but a print like this hand painted giclee one from 29 Black Street will have to suffice for now.

4) This silky drape top (€ 44,98) is perfect for work and the brass buttons make it special (it's on sale so there's only one size left!). Plus, I love a piece that can transition easily from one season to the next.

Any fun plan this weekend? Any new items on your wish list that you'd like to share or that should perhaps be on my wish list too? Have a good one friends! xo

6 things

2012-01-18T07:50:00.000-05:00

1) hand illustrated card $4 by hello small world

2) giclee print - bedfellows $22 by deerface

3) wool felt tote bag $56 by burlap design

4) flora study no. 3 $30 by miles of light

5) custom arrow mug $14 by wandersketch

6) swingset necklace IV $69 by webbwebb

Sponsor Love: Cupcakes Craft

2012-01-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

countryside mini notebook $12

Cupcakes Crafts is a new(ish) stationary and jewelry shop featuring unique, fun items - many of which are perfect for cheering up an office space. I'd like to use these adorable memo pads to organize my endless piles of paperwork and this pencil case for keeping track of pens in my workbag. Check out all the entire selection right here.

Cupcakes Crafts is D&OC's newest sponsor. If you're interesting in sponsoring the blog, I'm interested in sending you more information. Email me at downandoutchic@gmail.com for more details.

Photography: Seaglass

2012-01-12T11:16:00.000-05:00

Prints and notecards of Jennifer Booher's beautiful seaglass photographs can be found in her shop Quercus Design. If you love everything about the sea (as I do) you'll love her Beachcombing series which includes collections of various items found along the beach. Wouldn't these look lovely framed and hung together?

Art: Daphne van den Heuvel

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

I ran across one of Daphne van den Heuvel's illustrations on Creature Comforts last week and was pleased to find a whole series of striped-clad figures. Art + fashion + stripes combined? How could I not love this series? Check out Daphne van den Heuvel's full portfolio here.

Interiors: A touch of floral

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Not too much. Just a touch...

images: 1) design files (this home tour is awesome!) 2) emily chalmers via poppytalk 3) homelife 4) design*sponge 5) heart home 6) via design is mine (source unknown) 7) lonny

Art (For the Nursery)

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

My best friend had a baby over the weekend (a big, 9lb 8oz, healthy boy!). I think these letterpress prints ($35) by Sycamore Press are the perfect addition to a nursery. My favorite is the, 'Nothing says you care like a clean diaper." So true. You can purchase these prints on the Sycamore Press website or at their Etsy shop.