STYLE ON A WHIM

Editorial Rewind: Grace Bol In Vogue Italia

2011-09-28T18:34:00.000-07:00

Photography by Bryan Taylor Johnson Photography

Styled by Marc Clark

Makeup by Tinisse Buckman

Gowns by Christian Siriano

Sachika

source

5 Easy Steps To A Clean Face

2011-09-23T13:45:00.000-07:00

5 Easy Steps to a clean makeup Look

1. FOCUS- Choose one feature to focus on, whether its flawless skin, a bold lip, or sultry smokey eyes, choose one feature to really focus on to prevent the face from looking cluttered. This does NOT mean you have to neglect other areas of your face.

2. GROOM your brows! Whether you have a full or sparse brow you can benefit from cleaning up you brow . Quick Tip: Brush your brows straight up to get a clear view of your shape then shape them.

3. HIGHLIGHT AND CONTOUR- Remember foundation is one flat color unlike our natural skin. Ever wonder why you look so flat once you apply foundation? You have to add dimension and enhance the planes of your face again.

4. TONE down your concealer! The super bright highlight under your brow bone or eye is so passe. Instead stick with a shade 1 or 2 shade lighter than your skin tone.

5. BLEND BLEND BLEND- No matter what area of the face your apply makeup to make sure it's well blended. Quick Tip: Snap a picture with your cell phone (flash on) to see what area's you've missed then go back and correct them.

D&G Ready-To-Wear 2012

2011-09-22T21:06:00.000-07:00

Today was D&G Spring 2012 Ready- To- Wear show held in Milan. The dynamic duo behind the brand, Domenico and Stefano, announced it would be their last collection. The collection was full of color, polka dots, butterflies, scarves draped and ties around lean models.

Overall a great collection to end, be sure to check out more pictures at

Style.com

I absolutely adore the jacket Denni of Chicmuse wore to the D&G fashion show! Gorg!!!

Fall Trend My Way.....

2011-09-08T09:38:00.000-07:00

Trend: Gold Lids/Plum Berry Lips

Products Used: NYX pigment in NUDE

MAC fluidline in Blacktrack

MAC Embark & Saddle e/s

MAC Prince Noir lipstick (Limited)

How to:

IFB Conference

2011-09-07T07:23:00.000-07:00

Watch live streaming video from ifbconference at livestream.com

Watch the IFB conference live!!

http://heartifb.com/

5 Youtubers You Should Know!

2011-08-27T08:30:00.000-07:00

I spend a lot of my time on Youtube mainly watching makeup tutorials. Here are just a few of the people I enjoy watching ;-)

1. Goss The Makeup Artist

I love Goss because he's , just a great makeup artist. He doesnt give the same generic tips he shows you what works for a variety of people. Goss also gives good product reviews and recommendation and has the cutest accent.

2. SalonCabelo

Rachel, owner of Salon Cabelo, provides healthy haircare tips that are sutible whether you hair natural, relaxed, or in between.

3. ChicTv

Chic Tv allows to stay up to minute with fashion and beauty news!

4. Destiny Godley
I've watched the progression of Destiny's YouTube career.
She gives great recommendations especially for women of color.

5. Makeup by Leina Baby
Leina is a super cute makeup artist based in LA who not only
shares her favorite beauty finds but also fashion gems.

2011-08-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

What's one of the biggest nights in fashion that takes place worldwide? You guessed it, Fashion's Night Out! I can't believe it's only two weeks away. I've been stalking the Fashion Night Out site these past weeks planning my trip.

If you're not familiar with FNO, it is one night where stores all over the world celebrate style. This year the festivities will take place on Thursday, September 8th.

I'll be doing a special giveaway to the first reader I meet in NYC!

Macy's Herald Square throws the biggest party and it's no different this year, guest include Coco Rocha, Rachel Roy, Kelly Rowland, Bobbi Brown, and Diddy

Over on the left coast, LL Cool J will be hosting a party Westfield Century Center in Los Angeles.

Iphone and Android users can have their itenary at their finger tips with the FNO app.

Now, whats a girl to wear........

http://fashionsnightout.com/

Check out Glee's FNO promo video below!

Style Throwback: Aaliyah

2011-08-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

10 years ago R&B superstar Aaliyah passed in a plane crash along with her crew. Mainly known for her boyish style choices she always added a feminine twist whether it was a bikini top with baggy jeans or her signature swoop covering one eye. Later in her career she ditched the baggy jeans for sexier dresses like the animal print Roberto Cavalli number she wore to the MTV Awards.

If she was alive today I'd bet she would still be performing, living in NY, with paparazzi following her every move. To celebrate her life here are a few of my favorite looks.

My favorite Aaliyah video

Beauty News: Sam Fine For Fashion Fair

2011-08-24T20:51:00.000-07:00

Recently Fashion Fair cosmetics broke the news that their new creative director is none other than makeup artist to the stars, Sam Fine! The beauty world went crazy, but what exactly does this mean? As a makeup artist I've studied Sam's work and like most can identify it at first glance. I took a class taught by Sam while in makeup school. In person he has this strong presence about him that star quality. His daily makeup q&a tweets proves that he is a patient teacher and willing to help the next generation of makeup artist succeed.

My memories of Fashion Fair cosmetics go back a little ways. I think just about every woman in my family has worn it, including myself one year for prom lol. My Grandmother would only bring out her compact for special occasions. The most distinct memory that I have of fashion fair foundation, I'm sure I share with others, is that it made women look so red! Not sure if it was poor application or just the way it oxidized on the skin, that's all I can remember growing up. I took a trip to the Fashion Fair counter in Macy's a few months ago to replace her 11 year old compact in Pecan (<<<Yes you read it correctly). There wasn't a single sole working the counter, in fact I believe I had to get someone from another counter to assist me. I wasn't interested in looking at their other products although, I knew they had a souffle foundation I'd wanted to try. I got what I needed and was out.

Last night I decided to take an e-stroll over to FashionFair.com, I must admit I was a bit surprised. There were multiple products I would give a try, for example, their Fast Finish Stick Foundation is smudge proof and would be a dream to contour with.

Aside from the makeup I took a look at the press section to find that Fashion Fair has been featured in several publications this month including, WWD and Essence.

While we may have to wait until Spring 2012 for Sam's trend collections, I'm very excited to see the outcome of this collaboration. When asked about his new position Sam said

“There’s no place I’d rather foster my creative energies,” said Fine. “Fashion Fair was a barrier breaking cosmetic line since its inception 38 years ago and remains a leader in prestige cosmetics

for women of color."

Congrats Sam!

source

images

Editorial Rewind

2011-08-17T06:35:00.000-07:00

I never get tired of looking at this Essence spread! They really hit the nail on the head by including some of my favorite ladies in their September issue!!! But Claire of the Fashion Bomb takes the cake, I didn't even recognize her! She is absolutely glowing, so proud of her!

Check out more pics at The Fashion Bomb Daily

Be sure to follow @Thefashionbomb

@JuneAmbrose

@BevySmith

//Open Ceromony's Block Party//

2011-08-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

If their was a toss up between LA and NY on who has the most fun, hands down NY would win! That city is jam packed with action! Now I say this as I prepare to move to LA but they have their own fun too. I adore both cities and yearn for the days I'll be living bi-coastal.

Last Thursday Open Ceremony hosted an invitation only block party. The downtown scene was intense as guest included Solange Knowles, who was also working the turntables, Carol Lim, Theophilus London, and a whole slew of fashion's elite!

Solange Knowles

Solo & Theophilus

Stephanie LaCava & Shala Monroque

source

At A Glance: My Weekend

2011-08-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

My weekends are almost a blur. Its the busiest time at work so trying to squeeze anything in outside of work is almost impossible. 

I really wanted to check out Planet of the Apes and The Help but that was unsuccessful, maybe I can make it this week. I did get my hands on a few new products I have to review.  

A few of my weekend highlights include:

Playing around with my friend Tanisha....

Work....

Playing around with my sister...

Sam Fine's DVD came in the mail! I'll review it in soon....

Got some RT love on twitter from @Covergirl. The pic has over 3000 views!

How was your weekend?

Style Files: President Barack Obama

2011-08-04T08:09:00.000-07:00

How dope is President Obama?

Although First Lady Michelle Obama told Us Magazine in 2009 that "He doesn't understand fashion" he sure has his own style going. Yes he's in a suit 90% of the time however its the way he wears his suit, his je ne se qua.

In celebration of President Obama's 50th Birthday lets reflect over a few of his style moments.

source

Get to know: VH1's Single Ladies Stylist Anthony Williams

2011-08-01T20:42:00.000-07:00

Welp I'm back from vacation!!! I'm going through this ugly post sun burn stage and my skin is kinda gray and peeling ;-(

In other news I want to share a great interview I came across today. It's from Claire over at The Fashion Bomb Daily. She recently interviewed Anthony Williams, wardrobe stylist on the set of VH1's Single Ladies. Now I've yet to watch an entire episode of Single Ladies but the bits and pieces I've caught I did take heed to the ladies wardrobe especially Val played by Stacey Dash. Needless to say I was excited when I found out who the mastermind behind her wardrobe was.

Many are familiar with Williams from Project Runway but he says his due to the shows budget his creativity has been really put to the test.

****

While Anthony’s day job is full of glitz of glamour, he didn’t grow up amongst lots of wealth or gorgeous things. He said, “If there was any ghetto, I lived there. Where I grew up, it seemed there wasn’t a lot of beauty so I had to create it and that’s how I got my start.”

After eventually attending the University of Alabama, his love for beauty and fashion landed him at Neiman Marcus, where he worked the sales floor. He said, “I started at the bottom in accessories, then I moved to handbags, and then to the dress collections.” A well meaning friend felt Anthony had a gift, so submitted his information to the producers of Project Runway. He explains, “She gave me the application. I filled it out, sent it in, and went through the process

In addition to his hilarious one liners, Williams charmed America–and the producers of Single Ladies–with his final collection, which overflowed with sequined pants, delectable cocktails with origami folds, and paillette peppered mini dresses.

He ultimately brought his singular flair to Val, one of the main protagonists on Single Ladies. Williams explains, “To create Stacey Dash’s look, I had to really zero in on what the directors and the producers were trying to do. I read the script to find out what exactly was needed. We didn’t have a huge budget, so we went for a lot of vintage and revamping.”

So how does one recreate Val’s signature style? He says, “The fit is what makes most of her looks. I don’t care what stylist you’re dealing with. You have to have the baddest seamstress in the land to make it make sense.” For Val’s super popular colorblocked look, he paired a $259 Jil Sander top from Jeffrey’s with a skirt he fashioned out of Carolina Herrera fabric. Stacey added her own pop with blue Christian Louboutin peep toe pumps

Though her look is pricey, he says, “It’s really just a t-shirt in a stretch knit in a bright color, a pencil skirt, and a molded belt at the waist. Because of the color, the quality of the fabric, and the fit, it looks amazing. But fit is the most important. High waisted works a lot better than low rise. Especially if you want to have the illusion of a small waist.”

So what else does one need to achieve a ‘Val’ essence? He says, “The fit makes the fashion. We make sure Val is fitted with the proper undergarments–Tumi underwear and the proper bras–so that there are no visible lines. The worst thing is to have a beautiful garment destroyed by a bra strap or visible panty line! Next, I fit her in lots of pencil skirts because they work for her. It’s also important to know what works for your skin tone. Bright, beautiful colors are really in.”

” Lastly, you don’t need a pair of Christian Louboutins to look fierce! Stay in your lane and merge when necessary. If you can’t afford Christian Louboutins: don’t buy them. There’s nothing worse than having Christian Louboutins and a cheap outfit. Don’t buy a knockoff. Just walk away. There have been legends in fashion who looked spectacular long before Louboutins were created.” Preach, now!

Check out more pictures at The Fashion Bomb Daily.
Be sure to follow Anthony on Twitter @sewanthony

Still Away......

2011-07-27T14:41:00.001-07:00

Hey guys,

I'm still laying on the beach taking in some rays!!!! Will be back to blogging soon!!!
I've been getting a lot of emails after my hair feature so I'll be sure to answer those!!!

Be back soon!!!!

Location:In a beach chair....

Feature: Hairgurl.com

2011-07-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

I was super excited about my healthy hair feature on Hairgurl.com. When fellow blogger K.D. approached me about the interview I was a bit nervous. I didn't know how to narrow down the products and techniques I love! She was a sweetheart and allowed me to take my sweet ol' time Lol.

Please be sure to check out the interview and subscribe!

Hairgurl.com

Cassie Slayyyyed Blank Magazine

2011-07-12T14:48:00.000-07:00

This shoot is drool worthy because its vibrant, funky, and Cassie served! I fell even more in love when I saw the behind the scenes footage, wow! Cassie is stunning and modeling is naturally her "thing". They really played up her hair here and made forget how much I hate it!!
Photography by Gomillion & Leupold
Styled by capricornsredshoediaries.tumblr.com
***Still on a manhunt for the MUA***

Street Style: Paris Fashion Week

2011-07-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

source

Weekend Inspiration: A Pop of Orange

2011-07-07T22:11:00.001-07:00

Pop of Orange by call me Whimsical featuring slim fit jeans

Miss Selfridge crop tank
£17 - missselfridge.com

CIMARRON slim fit jeans
$135 - stylebop.com

Dean Harris face jewelry
$950 - barneys.com

Fallon gold plated jewelry
$240 - barneys.com

Erica Anenberg 14k necklace
$130 - couturecandy.com

House of Harlow 1960 black retro sunglasses
$149 - shopthetrendboutique.com

M·A·C Cosmetics | Lipstick - Rebel
$15 - maccosmetics.com

My life a ball of randomness lol

2011-07-06T20:10:00.001-07:00

Love.....

Family...

Work...

Playlist....

People love to look through the pictures in my phone. There are well over 1000 pictures that I collect for inspiration or simply take and never post them to the net. Above are some randoms I thought were interesting.

Of course I had to include a pic of Beyonce's 4 album. Whew I swear that woman wrote that album from MY soul!!!! So much raw emotion! I couldn't help but to listen when the album was leaked 3 weeks prior to it's release date, but I played it non stop (and still do) and actually picked up a copy.
While my favorite song hands down is "I Was Here", I play this album straight through!

The Power of Honey

2011-07-02T08:04:00.001-07:00

Well I've decided that I would wear my hair straight this month. My goal is to give it a break from the daily wear and tear of shingling. I went back to an old staple, honey pre poo's, I was a little skeptical because I didn't want my hair to retain too much moisture and cause frizz. Honey is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air to your hair. One of the ingredients for healthy hair and easy flat ironing is....Moisture! When your hair has a great balance of protein and moisture you don't have to pass the flat iron over your hair multiple times which can lead to damage.
It's been 3 days and I've been in some very hot places and my hair has yet to revert! I simply applied honey to towel dried hair, let it sit for 40 minutes, rinsed then continued my regular wash regimen. Have fun add oils to it like Coconut oil (hair growth) or Jojoba oil (shine & damage repair). It doesn't weigh your hair down which makes it ideal for most hair types!
Grab a bottle and give it a try!!!!

Results......

- Posted from iPhone so pictures may appear smaller

The Motivation.......

2011-06-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

Socially Awkward - Great Scott from Jonathan Stromberg on Vimeo.

Happy Birthday Scott!

Back To Old Faithful

2011-06-24T06:00:00.001-07:00

My skin is going through a horrible purging stage right now. I began drinking a skin detoxing tea about 2 or 3 weeks ago. After 4 days my skin was glowing, not a blemish in sight! A week ago everything went south, I have terrible breakouts :-(
No worries though I know it will get better with time so I continue to drink the tea at least twice per day.
Don't you hate when you drop a beauty product you've fallen on love with for something else you've fallen madly in love with?!! I revisited two of my old faithful loves, Dr. Bronner peppermint soap and organic coconut oil.
Dr. Bronner makes the largest organ on my body feel super clean but not stripped, that's really important in this summer heat. Coconut oil is hands down the best moisturizer for my body. I love the sheen it leaves without feeling or looking greasy. I apply it while I'm still in the shower by just warming it up in my hands to melt it a little.
So what are some of your favorite shower products?

(Coconut oil melted)

BlogPress from my iPhone

June Has Moved To Facebook!!!

2011-06-15T08:38:00.000-07:00

June uploaded a Twitvid letting all of her loyal followers know that she's taking her talents to Facebook. Anyone who follows the energetic fashion stylist knows her Twitter page is the best place to find up to the minute news about her. Whether you need a pick me up on"Maverick Mondays" or workout tips on "Work Out Whatever Wednesdays" June will continue to deliver!

The facebook move simply means more drool worthy pictures and updates!

www.facebook.com/juneambrose

Glowing Skin

2011-06-07T22:57:00.000-07:00

Everyone who knows me understands my obsession with glowing skin, some days I'm as bronzed as a penny! My bronzer collection is continusly growing, from natural powders to shimmer sticks, they all serve their purpose on any given day.

Whether its my beloved Taj Maha or Gold Deposit, I HAVE to wear a bronzer daily to add warmth to my skin.
Lately I've been wearing MAC's newest MSF in Sun Power because it doesnt have any gold reflects and gives a more natural look. Over it I'll add a bronzer that has the gold in it for a little shimmer.
I didn't add every bronzer I love to the list because I usually LOVE every bronzer when I first buy it and this list would be way too long Lol!
A great way to glow from within is adding supplements such as Evening Primrose and Flax Seed Oil to your diet (Talk to your Doctor first of course!).
If you wear a light foundation like Makeup Forever's Face & Body try adding their Uplight Luminizer Gel to the high planes of the cheeks. Also, Exfoliate Exfoliate Exfoliate! Don't let dull dry skin stop you from glowing. My favorite body scrub is simply made up of Organic honey, Brown Sugar, Olive Oil, and Lemon Juice...Simple but effective!!!

Products that will help you acheive glowing skin

Left to right: Mac Bronzing Powder $26, Nars Laguna $33, NYX Bronzing stick $10, Bobbi Brown Bronzing Gel $28

Iman Sheer Finishing Blush $15, Nars Taj Mahal & Albatross blush $27, Mac Peachtwist $19.50

Monoi oil $6, So Bronzed $20, Makeup Artist Choice Bronzing Cream $22

Scott Barnes Body Bling $40, Milani Body Bronzer $10, MAC Gold Deposit $28,

Maui Babe Browning Oil $15