feel good feel pretty

come again.

2017-09-06T19:57:00.000-07:00

it's been a while. a long while actually. over two years since I've written. Not written in totality, just on here...busy with life, busy with work. Instead of playing catch up, let's just start fresh here.

I'm going to try to hit up this space at least once a week. It's crazy to me how the primary source of influence and 'blogging' now is on Instagram, no?

I'm debating to make my profile public for that purpose, but we shall see where it goes. In the mean time, just getting a feel here to see how many people take a view, a click, and ya know the drill :)

Write back soon... xo, Assunta

Black or White...or Both?

2015-02-26T08:24:00.000-08:00

This or that, or this or that...or both? I always have a hard time making up my mind when it comes to clothes, shoes, really anything at all. I take up waaaay too much time overanalyzing and thinking about nothing at all...which results to this blog post in fact. I didn't want to take too much time myself deciding whether black or white, or both...so I need your opinion :)

What do you think is reasonable? Black? White? And if it's a toss up, maybe I will just have to get both (oooopssies)

OMG, Best Beauty Hack for Full, THICK Lashes

2015-02-25T08:20:00.000-08:00

Vavavoooom. Baby powder (yes, powder for the baby tush) will lengthen and thicken your lashes? Say what? How so? After applying a coat of mascara, use a cotton swab or a clean mascara brush to swipe a touch of powder on your lashes. Then apply your second coat of mascara and wow, voila!

Makeup of the Day :: Feb 24

2015-02-24T06:41:00.001-08:00

If you know me, I'm not one for makeup...so when I have a few spare minutes in my morning routine, I apply a tadbit of makeup and you get a makeup of the day post. HA.

Typically, everyday, I tend to quickly slab on some under eye concealer (don't worry, those bags under my eyes are Prada) and a lil on some blemishes here and there. Then sometimes, I add a bit of liner and always always curl my lashes and swipe on some mascara. Staples, m
y friend...concealer, mascara, and my fave...matte lipstick.

Before I go to bed, it's chapstick...waking up in the AM, it's lipstick. I love to always have something on my lips, that is when I can remember to apply and then re-apply.

Today? It's ELF Cosmetics Matte lipstick in Coral. I also have a handful of other hues, but this one is on my makeup vanity and in my car...so you KNOW that means it's a must-have fave.

Perfectly imperfect #motd #elfcosmetics #mattelips #mattelipstick #beautyblogger #feelgoodfeelpretty

A photo posted by Assunta Catalano (@assunta_assunta) on Feb 24, 2015 at 5:23am PST

Grapefruit Curd Ice Cream

2015-02-23T06:46:00.002-08:00

Author: Jennifer Farley via SavorySimple.net
Serves: about 3 cups

Ingredients
Grapefruit Curd:
2 whole eggs
3 egg yolks
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1¼ cup fresh squeezed grapefruit juice
4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter, cubed and at room temperature
optional: 1 drop each of pink and red food coloring

Curd Ice Cream:
1½ cup curd, chilled
1⅓ cup half and half, chilled
5 tablespoons confectioners sugar

Instructions
To make the curd:
In a medium saucepan, whisk eggs, egg yolks and sugar together until smooth. Whisk the corn starch together with a bit of the grapefruit juice to create a slurry.
Whisk the grapefruit juice and slurry into the egg mixture.
Add the food coloring if using.
Continue to whisk over medium heat until thick, 10-15 minutes. It should be the consistency of pudding. Make sure the whisk hits the bottom of the pot to keep the bottom from burning. This is less likely to happen if you use a heavy bottom saucepan.
Remove from the heat and slowly whisk in pieces of the butter.
Move the curd to a bowl and allow to chill in the refrigerator. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Store extra curd in the refrigerator with plastic wrap pushed directly against the curd to prevent a skin from forming.

To make the ice cream:
Whisk the curd and half and half together until well combined.
Sift in one tablespoon of confectioners sugar at a time while whisking.
Prepare according to your ice cream maker manufacturer's instructions.

Spring Suede Alert

2015-02-23T06:33:00.003-08:00

Suede so good, buttery smooth, suede is hot hot hot for spring 2015. The soft and delicate material has
turned heads on the runway for Spring/Summer 2015 but the real head turner? The brightly colored suede
hues shown on gorgeous silhouettes.

Derek Lam, Jason Wu, Chloe, and Gucci are a few to name that sent suede on the 'in-trend' for this
coming season, so if I were you...I'd grab a few suede staple pieces because needless to say,
it's happening! And what's really great about this trend is that not only is it 'in' for spring summer 2015,
but realistically, it can be worn all year round. Consider suede another seasonless fabric to work with...
now go run to get it and run with it!

Monday Motivation: Change your Perspectives

2015-02-23T03:48:00.003-08:00

Goooood morning! Ugh, the dreaded Monday blues! Rught? NO. Dont do that yourself..put yourself with the average person with that perspective. Look at Monday as the day after your rest days of enjoying the weekend, the day of back to grinding towards your work, what your priorities are, a closer chance and opportunity to get closer to your goals and dreams.

Monday: a day to start fresh, new and make up for any mistakes made last week. Time to up the anty my friends. happy Monday, have a kickass day and make it a kick ass week!

Alright, kids. It's Monday. Let's do this. Meryl and Jennifer believe in you. pic.twitter.com/7Nfc6MB1CL
— The Cut (@TheCut) February 23, 2015

Easy, Peasy 3 Ingredient Pancakes

2015-02-22T07:11:00.000-08:00

GAH, I'm a breakfast person and am always looking for new breakfast ideas, that are preferably simple and healthy. I just came across this 3-ingredient pancake from @eugeniekitchen that is so good I just had to share!

Ingredients:

1 ½ large ripe bananas
2 eggs
1/8 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:

Crack the two eggs into a bowl and whisk together.
In a separate bowl, mash the banana with a fork or masher, but do not over-mash, as this will cause your pancakes to not be fluffy. Be sure to use enough egg to hold the mashed banana together, but make sure that you don’t use too much banana, or else the pancake will not hold.
Combine both bowls of ingredients together and stir.
Cook over medium-low heat, using only about one to two tablespoons of batter for each.
Once the baking powder is activated, flip the pancake over and allow it to cook for an additional minute.
Serve with blueberries, butter and maple syrup. The recipe makes a serving of 10 miniature pancakes.

Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know: Lash Extensions

2014-11-20T12:18:00.002-08:00

Us girls tend to gravitate towards a beauty fad or two and literally become obsessive compulsive over it. We research it all day, we find a ton of different options of how to get 'er done, and than we either go ahead with it or not. More often or not, for myself, I end up not. But please, by no means am I going to waste my time and energy...I am going to share with you my leanings of the pros & cons of lash extensions...and then tell you why I am not going thru with it.

I don't know if it's just me, but now more than ever I have been noticing longer, more luscious, luxurious looking lashes on ladies. I naturally have long lashes but these are wam-bam thank you ma'am gorgeous! Some are very obviously fake, while others have me guessing. I took the time to look into lash extensions...and here are my findings.

Types of Lashes: There are many types you can have done. The most popularly known are the 3; synthetic, mink, and then there is silk.

Synthetic Lashes – the most basic kind of lash which is also the least expensive extension type.

Silk Lashes– tend to be very popular as they are the “darkest, richest black,” says Buhler. “They provide the fullest overall look and kind of that deep mascara look.”

Mink Lashes– preferred by women “who are wanting a really natural lash look, and…a softer black.”

After you decide from the three, there are a variety of ways to actually have these applied. Some extensions are single lashes while others may be a strip. Obviously, the single lash application will look a lot more natural but with this comes a lot more cost and expertise of the person whom will be applying these lashes. Speaking of which, the training and qualifications of this person is very important and something you should absolutely consider. I've heard way too many horror stories of people not knowing what they're doing and using funky glues and wrong application processes.

Along with all of the above, you want to make sure you have a guarantee that the lashes will last x amount of days. If there is a problem with your lashes the day after you have them applied, you should be able to go back and get a complimentary touch up or fill.

Make sure you do your research too! Look at their portfolio and see the actual work that has been done...make sure they are true images, and not Google Image'd eye lash extension photos.

Cost: Prices range anywhere from $60 to over $200. Definitely check out Groupon for some local deals near you!

Do they last? Not really. So sorry to be blunt here, but there are so many factors that become enemies to these faux lashes that I couldn't possible think it's worth it. Lashes shed, begin to look patchy and soon enough, you will have gaps after a week or so and before you know it...it's time for a fill! You won't want to sweat, swim, do hot yoga, live in a tropical climate, etc etc. If you are planning to sit pretty, sure go for it...but if you live an active lifestyle, these lovely lashes most likely aren't for you.

So...alternatives? There are lash growth serums available at drug stores and online that do give you longer lashes. These serums are full of nutrients to speed up hair growth and look natural but longer!

Standing out in MavySavvy

2014-09-26T06:53:00.000-07:00

I'm always on the lookout for cute boutiques online for trendy attire that not everyone will have and wear; something that can reflect my personal style and uniqueness. When I came across MavySavvy trend store, I was thrilled to find upscale products at a really great (and really affordable) price!

After checking back on their site for a week or so, I was happy to find new items and styles added daily! Why? Mavy Savvy trend store is considered premium fast-fashion, which means its super affordable clothing that is affordable BUT to ensure uniqueness in your pieces, only a few of them are available for each item (YAY). Not to worry that half your class or office will show up with the same top or dress, it's almost close to none of a possibility that you will run into someone wearing the same thing as you when shopping at MavySavvy. Isn't that fab?!

Along with fast-fashion apparel, they also carry accessories, outerwear, swimwear, jewelry, bags, shoes, beauty and tech!

Intrigued? It get's better! Since it's the end of September, they are having a huge September sale with up to 40% off already super affordable prices. My wallet is running a bit thin this month and I didn't want to shop it all since there is now low inventory, so make sure to check it out before you miss it!

*Sponsored Post

The #PerfectCardigan by Costello Tagliapietra

2014-09-12T12:19:00.003-07:00

I love a good cardigan and I have much experience with all types of cardigans, in all colors, shapes and sizes. Thrifted, vintage, store bought and handmade, I know a good cardi when I see one. Meet the #PerfectCaridgan by Costello Tagliapietra.

Designers Jeffrey Costello & Robert Tagliapietra explain, “Our cardigans act as our security blankets and when our friends borrow them off our backs to throw over a dress at the end of an evening, we love how they too feel the same. We love the concept of the perfect cardigan, one that is genderless and meaningful for different situations- casual and elegant, easy yet beautiful.”

No matter your style, the versatility of this blazer will shine thru with however you choose to style it.

DJ Mia Moretti

Makeup Artist, Artist, Model Niki M'nray

Sexxy with Soxxy Air

2014-09-12T11:23:00.006-07:00

I never thought I would be writing about compression socks, like EVER, OR mentioning that compression socks and stylish could exist in the same sentence. Behold, however, the moment has come...and why? I came across a company called Soxxy Air, known to be the only stylish compression sock that gives back, yes it supports your legs and supports a cause.

Put aside the ol' granny sock picture in your head, think about how YOU can stylishly wear these awesome socks. Travel a ton, they're great for when you're flying! Also, great for sports, work, and the obvious of them all, for medical.

SoxxyAir - Support a Cause, Support Your Legs from sarah stabile on Vimeo.

What really excites me though about Soxxy, besides the multi-functional stylish sock, is that they give back, not to just one, but FIVE charities! You can support a cause and support your legs in a very stylish way, visit Indiegogo page for more info on how you can do that! The goal is $15K and so far a little under half of that has been raised!

Take a peek at the cute socks they offer, which are your fave? I have Orion Sox, a sock that benefits a scholorship fund specializing in a program that works to alleviate dyslexia and learning disabilities.

"Powered by BrandBacker"

NYFW: SKINGRAFT Fall 2014

2014-02-22T15:08:00.000-08:00

Skingraft’s Fall 2014 collection is inspired by the idea of drastic climate change and an inevitable return to a dystopian survivalist future.

The collection pulls from Siberian , Mongolian, and artic tribal cultures who have adapted, thrived and built communities in harsh climates and severe conditions for centuries.

This artic inspiration is filtered through Skingraft’s signature nomadic streetwear lens and explores new fabrications including hand-quilted leather and mohair, shaved ponyhair, ribbed nylon-fused fleece and intricate embroideries detailed with leather and metal jewels.

For me, the fall collection is not just about survival in the harsh uncertanties of our world’s future, but rather it is about thriving and building new forms of self-expression and community once the infrustructure as-we-know-it is forced into question by our changing earth and a new opportunity is upn us. -Jonny Cota Skingraft Designer

Collection Launch | Datura Introduces Capsule II

2013-11-10T16:14:00.001-08:00

Datura, a sustainable web exclusive brand, recently launched new, "Capsule II: Wool & Silk" group on Datura.com, the second launch from the MAATMONS collection.

The inspiration? The Venusian volcano Maatmons, named after the ancient Egyptian goddess Maat representing harmony, truth, and justice. With this, the collection features a natural earthiness and colorful palette.

The material: The new grouping of easy to wear pieces is made of premium Italian soft virgin wools and crepe silks.

Datura is a new web-only ready-to-wear collection, designed by Stefania Borras.

Emilio Cavallini | Timeless Fashion Tights

2013-11-10T15:50:00.002-08:00

Celine, Dior, Alexander McQueen, Gucci. These are just a few of the designers for whom Emilio Cavallini has produced his famous hosiery. Cavallini dazzles your legs, creating stockings for stockings sakes (and not to enhance a wardrobe) his pieces are attention grabbers. With a piece of his clothing, it will "guarantee you of being unique, of being a member of an elect community. of becoming spiritual and aesthetically transfigured".

"Being an artist means not being afraid to expose yourself, not being afraid to reveal what you have in your soul."

October Fashion Favorites

2013-10-23T18:03:00.004-07:00

My, oh my, how I love the month of October. The change of seasons is exactly what I need as I grow impatient of all the summer trends and ready to bring forth the dark, the cozy, the comfy, the cool. Below, you will find my absolute October fashion faves. They're so swoon-worthy, no?

TOPSHOP Textured Pocket Skater Skirt

Rebecca Taylor DOLMAN SLEEVE CROPPED KNIT

JOSEPH New Queen cropped twill pants

Karen Millen Faux leather jersey blazer

Miu Miu Ankle Boots

TOPSHOP Textured Pocket Skater Skirt

MISSGUIDED AW13: CREEP IT REAL

2013-10-23T12:05:00.001-07:00

I love Halloween, it’s on my mind 24/7 as soon as the first of the fall leaves begin to turn. This creepy campaign by Misguided instantly caught my attention, shot in a haunted publick house, in the deep, dark depths of London.

Misguided perfectly encompassed a spine tingling energy for the Halloween holiday, all while showing off their newest seasonal campaign.

The collection Creep’s It Real, with religious prints, regal textures and midnight shades. These haunting looks are literally to die for.

Fashion ‘it’ girl Anja cascades herself in the photos, with her sultry smokey eyes emerging behind her platinum blond locks, the element of mystery is played out well.

The new collection pays homage to the witching hour, mixing skeleton print bodies and vampire bite dresses with oversized kimono’s and rich Autumnal tones. From the lavish lace jumpsuit with a deep plunging neckline to the romantic baroque effect bonder, these pieces enchant and entice.

For more, head to MissguidedUS.com and view the entire campaign…and while you’re at it, shop Halloween!

Pearl Love

2013-03-29T11:00:00.001-07:00

Are you a true romantic at heart? You'll love these awesome LOVE stud earrings, with each of the O's featuring a pearl on each stud.

Similar styles are Max & Chloe's Tina Tang Love Stud earrings, Tiffany's or Bauble Bar's Love stud earrings, which are double, even triple (or more) the price.

If you're interested in a pair of these gorgeous LOVE pearl stud earrings, email me here or you can leave a comment below. They come in silver and gold and are ONLY $5.

Vote for Me: Simon Style Setter at Roosevelt Field Mall

2013-03-25T17:52:00.001-07:00

If you know anything about me, you know I LOVE to shop, and that may be an understatement. I have been blamed by my friends for their 'shopaholic-ism' but hey, that's not a problem in my book! The more trendy clothes, the better you can style them and feel good about yourself...now that ain't no problem, right?!
Anyways, I am in need of YOUR help. I have until Friday, March 29th, to get my votes in, vote daily if you can :)

Please vote for ME (your favorite Simon Style Setter) at Roosevelt Field mall. You know I represent fashion at my mall & city the best...so just go on ahead, and click ahead to Vote!

Thank you, thank you, and thank you once more....all of your help is much appreciated! Please note, you may not be able to vote on a mobile device, so please head to a desktop and vote for me. xx

Clarisonic Face Brush...Not Necessary

2013-03-03T12:23:00.004-08:00

These brushes have been around for ages, but all of a sudden, there is a craze over these brushes that exfoliate deep down and get the grime from underneath your skin. Not one layer or two, but 6 layers down, purging your pores of dirt, dead skin, and I'm not sure I really want to know any furthermore.
A las, I have succumbed to purchasing one myself, and hell, in no way was I splurging on a Clarisonic, which is over $150. So, I was planning to settle for Oil of Olay's version of the facial brush. Reading up on the pros and cons of each, I've narrowed down the differences between the two, and the main difference was that the Clarisonic gave off 'sonic' pulses, while the Oily of Olay face brush rotated in circular motions.

To be completely honest, I wasn't look for such a deep clean that the Clarisonic promised, sorry, breaking out for a skin purge is just not cool by me, so I happily took a trip to CVS in hopes to get the Oil of Olay brush.

They didn't have it. Sucks. But...they did have a CVS version of the Oil of Olay brush, so I got that one. $20. Not bad.

As soon as I got home, I unboxed the brush and got started. WOW is all I can say. During the cleansing of my face while using the brush, it was like a mini massage on my face, it felt amazing.

Afterwards, my face felt so clean and words can't describe how smooth and soft my skin was! I literally was glowing!

What a perfect way to a post-workout at the gym! I plan to use this facial brush every other day and change the brush every 3 months (or sooner if the bristles bend).
Do you use a Clarisonic, Oil of Olay face brush, CVS face brush, or any facial brush to exfoliate your skin?

3 Spring Trends I Love

2013-02-18T06:55:00.001-08:00

Goodbye fall and winter trends, aloha to Spring 2013! This spring, there are a ton of new trends to abide by, but the 3 most favorite of all for me? Bermuda shorts, leather luxe, and peek-a-boo pieces.
To start, Bermuda shorts were all over the New York runways for Spring 2013, from Peter Som to DKNY, this slouchy, cool-girl short look is a look we all could pull off in office or on a day to day basis. This ultra chic, flattering look could be dressed up or dressed down, I suggest you pair them with a button up collared shirt and a bib necklace, and voila!

Leather luxe is not just for winter months anymore, mix and match leather pieces, such as leather shorts or leather accented tops for a luxe leather look for Spring 2013. Create a no fuss approach with minimalistic hair, makeup and accessories, and you'll have a no stress, no sweat factor look. For inspiration, look to designers like Derek Lam, Monique Lhuillier, and Proenza Schouler, that make leather luxe look easy as pie!

Lastly, who doesn't love a lil peek-a-boo, cut out here, cut out there on their spring outfit look? This spring, there will be no problem finding something sexy to wear with all the daring cutouts, baring midriffs, splits, sheer fabrics, and peek-a-boo clothing options out there. Check out what was on the runways at BCBG, Alexander Wang, and Diane von Furstenberg for some sheer, daring cutout inspiration.

Can you see yourself wearing one of these 3 spring trends? What is your fave?

Richard Chai Fall/Winter2013

2013-02-11T20:30:00.000-08:00

Richard Chai, Fall 2013...two words, strong and utilitarian. With an overarching military theme, Richard Chai perfectly worked in elegant detailing and luxe fabrications. Signature prints and intricate beading and embroidery added further dimension to the the clothes in gorgeous jewel tones, such as plum and evergreen.
Fall/Winter 2013 also showcased Richard Chai's second collaboration with Palladium Boots showcasing new styles that utilize various textures of leathers in a tonal color palette to create a slightly futuristic feel.

Photo: Instagram, Paulea

Photo: Instagram; DrJartus

Photo: Instagram; choiy638

Photo: Instagram; assunta_assunta

Nicholas K Fall 2013

2013-02-11T19:57:00.001-08:00

The design sibling duo have pulled inspiration for their fall 2013 collection from the époque of the Arctic explorations in the late 19th to early 20th century. What is so inspirational about that?
The warmth of the sun on an unforgiving landscape, ice capped oceans, swaying vegetation, the grey barren earth...all of these together have brought together the array of tones, textures, colors and most importantly, the mood of the collection.
Into the depths of the ice-capped oceans spears of light ignite the deep blue and wild green aura of the swaying vegetation clinging to the grey barren earth. Above the white ice-plateaus reaching to the coasts are the exposed tops of pale mammoth glaciers marbled in hues of blue, grey, and white.

All photos, credit: Randy Brooke

Winter Whites

2013-01-08T19:24:00.004-08:00

Seriously, screw the no white after Labor Day 'fashion rule' and get familiar with the term, ready for it...winter white!

Cool, creamy, and oh so sophisticated, you'll want to pair this shot of light with a dark hue, whether it be a black leather belt of a pop of neon color.

Go on ahead an brighten up your winter blues with this stylish alternative to deep, dark, and depressing (did I say that?) winter colors.

Image:http://couldihavethat.blogspot.com/

Image: Lori411 on Etsy.com

Creepy, Crawly, Infested Editorial

2012-10-19T19:16:00.000-07:00

Take a bite out of Schon Magazine, issue #19. Why? Well, they literally have beauty buzzin' with a bite, with bees, bugs, and insects of all sorts. Yucky sounding, yes, but with a stunning model and perfect photography, this editorial is worth it's buzz.
Ok, I have to stop with that! From smoky eyes to bold lips, the spread features a spectrum of looks that are bound to appeal to a variety of women. Make up artist Elias Hove is a master of his craft as he uses the model’s visage as a canvas for his creations.
Makeup used for this editorial include luxury brands, such as Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent, and MAC cosmetics.