Stylish In Sequins

Trend Alert: Single-Strap Sandals

2013-05-21T16:16:00.000-04:00

On Point Professional

2013-05-17T11:33:00.001-04:00

Blazer; Forever 21 — Tank top; American Eagle — Necklace: Charlotte Russe — Jeans: American Eagle — Shoes: Kohl's — Purse: Michael Kors — Bracelets: Alex & Ani

Since the end of the Spring semester is (slowly) rolling in, I've been dreading leaving this beautiful city that I've been lucky enough to call home for the past six months. Even though I'll be back in August, it's still super bittersweet. At the same time, I absolutely cannot wait to go home and see my friends and my family and spend my summer reading and rotting by the pool.

Since I'll be gone for the summer, I've been off on interviews for the past couple weeks in search of a Fall internship. I have interviewed at a couple smaller companies, but one big company that I hope to work for after graduation (don't want to jinx the company, so it shall remain unnamed!), so let's cross our fingers for me!

Going off on interviews can be nerve-wrecking, but is obviously a crucial part in obtaining a job or internship. Looking your absolute best is also crucial. Finding the perfect outfit for a job in the fashion industry can be a bit easier since you have more freedom when choosing, but it's still a task that can get on your nerves.

For this special interview, I picked out an amazing, chic white, black, and blue blazer from Forever 21 that was actually on sale for only $23! It was originally $35, which is still not bad for this adorable piece. I paired this blazer with a simple black tank and dark black jeggings. I really wanted the blazer to pop and be my statement piece, so I threw on a pair of nude heels that I got from Kohl's for about $25 with a Charlotte Russe necklace that I had in my jewelry box for the perfect chic and professional look.

I have to have a separate conversation about this bag though! This is the new love of my life! I have been protecting this bag like a child, it's insane. I fell in love with this bag at Macy's last week and charged it (oops!). It's a perfect, classic bag to have and use for just about every occasion since it's plain black and gold. It is also super versatile since it can be held with the hand straps or as a shoulder/crossbody bag. I'm in love to say the least.

Whites, Tribals, & Cut-Outs: Oh My!

2013-04-22T08:39:00.000-04:00

Tribal Cut-Out Dress, $60 at ae.com; Hollister Denim Jean Jacket, $40 at hollisterco.com; Brown Gladiator Sandals; $20 at kmart.com; Juicy Couture Sunglasses

This warm weather has me ready to hit the beach! As this warm weather sneaks up on me, I've begun longing for summer to begin and then never end. I've started to bring all my summer clothes like shorts, sandals, and dresses to school and bring all my warmer clothes back to my house. It's definitely an amazing feeling.

Spring Outfit Trend: Sassy in Stripes

2013-04-20T08:00:00.000-04:00

As the weather warms up, outfits are becoming more and more colorful and beachy. In the Big Apple, humidity rules all when the temperatures warm up (which we're not too crazy about, but we'll deal). Our fashion contributor, Gianna Losquadro, started off this warm weather streak with an adorable striped dress topped off with a classic jean jacket. Clinched in with a brown belt, this look is perfect for the beginning of spring. She also put a classy touch on her outfit with a brown watch and cat-eye shades.

Jean Jacket, TJ Maxx | Striped Dress, Old Navy | Watch, Fossil | Belt, Vintage

Get that Natural Shine Back!

2013-04-19T08:00:00.000-04:00

After years of flat ironing, hair spraying, and gelling, we tend to strip the natural sheen right out of our hair. I've had this problem for awhile now and couldn't find a remedy. That's when I turned to one of my best friends, winner of "Best Hair" in my high school yearbook, and asked her how she's retained her beautiful dark, shiny locks.

Besides the fact that her natural hair is gorgeous and she rarely has to apply heat, she also uses one of the best kept secrets that her family has done for years: coconut oil. Pure coconut oil has many uses but hair is definitely it's best! (I use the Parachute brand for only $10) All you have to do is rub a small amount into your hair, leave it over night or for thirty minutes, and wash out thoroughly with your normal shampoo-conditioner ritual.

Fair warning: coconut oil solidifies at room temperature, so make sure you microwave it before you use it and wash it out completely with shampoo (I recommend that you lather, rinse, & repeat!) to make sure your hair won't harden once dry! Now, remember this isn't going to work instantly. Ease up on the iron a little and use this product about twice a week for a few weeks and the results will be incredible!

Celebrate Your Mother in Style

2013-04-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

Spring fashion has officially taken over my closet. All the heavy sweaters and long coats have been pushed to the back of my wardrobe to make room for the brightly printed tops and flowy dresses. One of favorite parts of Springtime fashion is Mother’s Day. I know that sounds strange, but hear me out.

$145.00
Rafe New York
Zappos.com

$59.95
Nine West Tote
DSW.com

Most people will buy their mother a coffee pot, new slippers or something equally as boring for Mother’s Day. It’s easier to run to Target and grab a household item that you know your mom needs than think too hard about getting a better gift. But no girl likes getting a new planner for her birthday, just like no mother wants another salad bowl for the kitchen. Instead, I use Mother’s Day to brighten my mom’s wardrobe. My personal favorite item to get her is a new purse. Every girl, from youngster to grandmother likes to have a new purse, especially at the start of a new season. No woman wants to use her worn, black, winter purse to go to a party in sunny Spring!

$34.95
ShoeDazzle.com

So I’ve come up with a few of my favorite bags, from totes to clutches, that will brighten up any outfit and make your mother smile on her special holiday. Most of the bags are not too expensive; and from online shopping sites that are super accessible. Of course, I threw in a few splurge items, but I couldn't help myself. Enjoy!

$248.00
Michael Kors
Zappos.com

The Best "Beachy Waves" Product for the Summer!

2013-04-17T11:21:00.000-04:00

As you may be able to tell from my last post about spray tans, summer is my favorite season. I cannot wait to get to the beach this summer so I've begun my summer makeover early!

In my opinion, there is nothing better than summer hair. Whether it's messy buns, waves, or braids I love it all. However, I'd have to say that beachy waves is my all time favorite hairstyle that I wear throughout all seasons! Personally, I have very wavy hair, but if you don't have that luck, I have the perfect product for you. My pin-straight-haired roommate introduced me to the best product that gives her straight hair a slight wave right out of the shower. "Not Your Mother's Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray" is the ocean in a bottle! Spray this product in damp hair, tousle it a bit, and let it dry or defuse lightly. Not only does it work great, it smells great too (a mix of coconut and vanilla)!

Buy it online for as little as $5 and in drug-stores and Walmart for around $12-$15. This spray is a must-have that I use throughout the year to enhance my already wavy hair. Just as the ocean gives your hair a natural wave, this spray will do exactly the same! How I feel: what better way to get in the mood for summer than with you hair?

Mattify! Beauty Product Giveaway!

2013-04-16T16:12:00.000-04:00

We have partnered with one of our favorite beauty brands to create an amazing giveaway in celebration of the Spring season!

In the adorable gift bag, you'll receive all the products listed below:

- Mattify! Long Lasting Eye Shadow in: Earth Angel, Field of Gold, Iced Apricot
- Mattify! Tinted Fair/Medium Skin Tone Powder- Mattify! Light "Conceal-Zit" Concealer
- Mattify! Long Lasting Blush in Harmony

Each item listed below will give you 1 entry into the giveaway. Leave a comment for each separate entry that you've completed with your information for that entry. For example, if you like our Facebook page, leave a comment below with a link to your Facebook profile.

1. Like our Facebook page.
2. Follow us on Twitter.
3. Follow us on Pinterest.
4. Follow us on Instagram.
5. Tweet about the giveaway (make sure you tag @StylishSequins).
6. Like Mattify's Facebook.7. Follow Mattify on Twitter.
8. Follow Mattify on Pinterest.
9. Follow us on Google Friend Connect (right sidebar).

7 Days of Spring: The Ultimate Spring Wardrobe

2013-04-13T08:00:00.000-04:00

1. Lace T-shirt, Madewell | 2. Printed Blouse, H&M | 3. Chambray Button-up, Madewell | 4. Striped Dress, Joe Fresh | 5. Cropped Pants, J Crew | 6. Perforated Smoking Slippers, Dolce Vita | 7. Pastel Pumps, Forever 21 | 8. Cut-out Bootie, Dolce Vita | 9. Rounded Cat-eye Sunglasses, Forever 21 |
10. Floral Clutch, Ted Baker | 11. Graphic Sweater, Wildfox | 12. Floral Necklace, Forever 21 | 13. Geometric Necklace, Top Shop | 14. Crossover bag, H&M | 15. Bermuda Shorts, American Eagle | 16. Printed Jacket, H&M | 17. Black Ponte Skirt, American Eagle

Now that spring is upon us finding the perfect additions to your spring wardrobe is a must. We've created a must-have wardrobe to meet the needs of every working girl, 7 days a week, and for every occasion.

Monday: Internship; From organizing files to fetching coffee, it's important to be comfortable, as well as, put together for a day on the job.

Tuesday: Class; Keep it casual, cute, and easy for those long lectures and school days.

Wednesday: Lunch Date; Whether it's with your best friend, a special someone, or even just your parents look chic and put together for a fun afternoon out.

Thursday: Job Interview; You landed an interview for your dream job! For the big day you need to look confident and well-eqipped for whatever the world throws at you.

Friday: Night Out; It's the weekend! Kick off your working shoes and slide into heels for a night out with friends or maybe a dinner date.

Saturday: Music Festival; Enjoy a day of music and the outdoors with easy-going chic.

Sunday: A Day To Relax; Go for a walk in the park, maybe buy lunch at your favorite cafe, and enjoy your day of rest (while looking adorable, of course!).

10 Spring Nail Polish Colors

2013-04-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year again! When Essie's "Wicked" gets put to the back of your nail polish collection and your brights, pastels and neon nail polish comes out to play! From pinks to greens to even yellow, we have 20 great shades that you are going to want to try this Spring!

Essie - Knockout Pout

China Glaze - Flip Flop Fantasy

OPI - Suzy's Hungary AGAIN!

Essie - Mint Candy Apple

China Glaze - Sun Kissed

Essie - Bikini So Teeny

OPI - Red My Fortune Cookie

China Glaze - Pool Party

Essie - Watermelon

OPI - Cajun Shrimp

Blogger Buzz: Steffy at Steffy's Pros & Cons

2013-04-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

Name: Steffys Pros and Cons
Blog URL: Steffysprosandcons.blogspot.com
Blogging from: Miami Beach, FL

First, tell us a bit about yourself.

I'm a little quirky, a little silly and a lot in love with vintage clothing.

How did you start blogging? Why "Pros & Cons"?

I started blogging about 2 years ago. I used the pros and cons name because in the beggining my blog was just a list of pros and cons each day!

We see you've been featured in articles in Teen Vogue, Elle, and New York Magazine upon many more. How do you create this collaborations? What's been the most exciting party?

The companies usually contact me, and it's so exciting to get fun e-mails like that!

You've also opened your own online store. Tell us more about how you got that started and where you find the clothing to sell on the shop.

I opened a store selling vintage clothing a few years back. I haven't been as good about keeping up with it since I got a full-time job, but I usually just thrift items I love, wear them on the blog and sell them! I sell them at teaandtulips.bigcartel.com

You also have an adorable dog, Claude! Tell us about her!

Claude Pepper is my little weenie dog. She's the cutest, I got her with my boyfriend a few months back!

Do you find yourself searching for fashion inspiration from celebs? If so, which ones?

Yes! I love Alexa Chung and Kirsten Dunst's style.

What are some of your favorite Spring trends?

florals and of course pastels!

And some of your favorite lower-priced store?

Forever 21, H & M

We love your vintage flare. When did you start falling in love with vintage?

In high school a friend brought me thrifting and I haven't stopped going since!

How is Miami fashion different from fashion elsewhere?

The scene here is very eclectic since there are so many tourists.

What are some cool events that you've attended through your fashion blog?

Tons! I always love attending Lookbook.nu events, i love to see collection previews and I've attended Miami Swim Week and also a few NYFW events which was fun too! I don't have too much time to devote to events because of my job, but I try to pick the most fun ones to go to!

Kate Spade Gives New Meaning to Saturday

2013-04-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

"Crisp color, graphic prints, and playful sophistication" are all elements that Kate Spade New York boasts and have allowed the brand to establish a distinctive voice within the fashion industry. After tag-teaming with stylist, Brad Goreski, Kate Spade's style has remained classic with its own unique twist catering to an even younger demographic.

While we were patiently awaiting the first day of spring, Kate Spade had their own plans to make this spring special no matter what else Mother Nature had planned. On that cold and snowy first day of spring, Kate Spade launched their new brand, Saturday, to ensure our future weekends would be chic no matter the size of our wallet. Kate Spade Saturday has stayed true to the overall Kate Spade identity with bright colors, graphic shapes, and bold prints but offers a lower, affordable price point.

Long work weeks have us longing for carefree weekends making it easy to throw on a pair of jeans, a tee and some flats, but Kate Spade Saturday puts a spin on casual while still channeling the carefree spirit of the weekend. Although the new Saturday line provides us with chicer weekend options, it also gives us a chance to bring that weekend spirit to our Monday through Friday with "smart silhouettes, honest fabrics, and a sense of spontaneity." Whether it's a perfectly tailored dress, comfortably chic boyfriend jeans, a printed romper, or beautifully structured bag, each piece of this collection has a dose of style as well as function.

Aside from clothing and accessories, the line also offers home and travel products. You can even design your own Weekender bag, the collection's signature item! Below are some of my must-haves from Saturday's spring collection, but there's plenty more to browse and buy at saturday.com!

Scoopback Dress in Signature Zig-Zap, $150

Scoopback Dress, $140

The Skinny Jean in Abstract, $120

The Slouch Jean in Light Wash, $110

Reversible Cape, $210

Oh, Snap! Hoodie in Cotton Ottoman, $120

Jump-Around Jumpsuit in Signature Zig-Zag, $150

Jump-Around Jumpsuit in Abstract, $150

Full Circle Bag, $90

Half-Circle Bag in Leather, $160

Teen Vogue x Revlon #ItGirlsNail Party

2013-04-07T12:16:00.002-04:00

Teen Vogue & Revlon were kind enough to sponsor an It Girls Nail Party for me and nine other It Girls from around the country. My friends and I had such an amazing time at this party! We played around with all of Revlon's new nail polishes and made some really cool Pinterest-inspired designs! After painting our nails, we read Teen Vogue and had a huge gossip sesh. I was super excited that all my friends got to keep some of Revlon's new nail polishes (and tons of other candy & swag) to paint their nails with next time! Thanks Teen Vogue & Revlon! #ItGirlNailArt

0 Calorie Meals for Spring Time

2013-04-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

As much as we all want to deny it, or turn our heads the other way, that time of year is quickly approaching. It's time to start working on your summer body (keep reading, ladies!). As springtime has quickly crept up on us, it's time to draw every ounce of motivation from deep, deep inside and make yourself go to the gym. While it does sound like a drag, it doesn't have to be. Try a new way of exercise such as Zumba, or Kickboxing.

Exercise isn't the only thing that's going to give you your dream bod this summer. Eating healthy is one of the most important parts of getting in shape. That little pouch at the bottom of your stomach that you try so hard to get rid of, is caused by eating fatty foods, and it's the hardest area of fat to eliminate. Eating healthier can contribute to faster weight loss, and a healthier immune system.

Today we're going to look at a list of fruits and vegetables that contain 0 calories. Spring is the perfect time to indulge in these kinds of foods because they are in season and ripe with the best flavors.

apples - apricots - asparagus - beets - broccoli - cauliflower - carrots - celery - cranberries - cucumber - grapefruit - green beans - kale - lemon - lettuce - onion - orange - peppers - pineapples - plum - raspberries - spinach - strawberries - tomatoes - watermelon

Taking this list, we can create a whole variety of healthy meals that will help you on your way to that perfect summer bod.

First and foremost, the healthiest spring snack you can make with these 0 calorie fruits is of course a fruit salad. You don't need to add any extra ingredients to raise your calorie count, just cut up some strawberries, raspberries, watermelon, pineapples, oranges, and maybe some apples and you have the perfect 0 calorie snack to bring poolside for your guests.

The next quick and easy meal to make is a salad. Throw together some lettuce, beets, broccoli, cranberries, and kale with some light or low fat dressing and you have the perfect healthy meal. Don't hesitate to throw some chicken in for protein.

For a light and healthy breakfast try an apple and avocado sandwich. While avocados are not on our list as a 0 calorie food, they are full of protein and very good for you. Slice up a green apple stacked on top of slices of avocado, and held together with some whole wheat bread and you have the perfect breakfast for a sunny spring day.

Lastly, some fruity drinks are always refreshing on a hot spring afternoon. Try combining strawberries, bananas, or other kinds of fruit for a healthy smoothie. Use water and ice instead of milk, keeping the smoothie fat free. Another fruity drink is a glass of pineapple juice. I recommend buying your own fruit presser because pressing your own fruit makes sure to keep this drink calorie and sugar free. If you go to the store and buy pineapple juice you will find it full of sugar and preservatives.

So while you're working on that tan, enjoy some fruity foods and you'll be on your way to the perfect bikini body.

Julianne Hough for Sole Society- Spring 2013

2013-04-06T18:34:00.000-04:00

Some may remember her from "Dancing with the Stars". Others might recognize her from her small role in "Burlesque". And most recently, if you saw Nicholas Sparks' "Safe Haven" you'll remember her as the lead. But now Hough is looking to branch out into the wonderful world of fashion, and we couldn't be more excited.

This spring Julianne Hough has partnered up with Sole Society and has designed six different styles of shoes, all of which are under $70. From neons flats, to red stilettos, Julianne hit the nail on the head with her spring designs.

Emerald: Color of the Year

2013-04-05T08:00:00.000-04:00

"Oz the Great and Powerful" has just come out in the cinemas, and I went straight there with my 3D glasses, sat next to my four year old cousin pretending she is the only reason I am here, and not just to drool over James Franco.. But what struck me most is not just his devastating beauty, because it is devastating due to the fact I can't be his girlfriend, but also how BANG on trend the film is. We all know Emerald is the color of the year, we have seen stars from England's very own Kate Middleton to Angelina Jolie rocking the trend, and this film only serves to show that if you wear anything other than emerald then you are not welcome!

Rachel Weisz, one of the most stunning actresses ever, and my personal fave, wore emerald the best. Her sequined gown in the film was so gorgeous, even I would of considered becoming a witch to just get my hands on it. And Mila Kunis loved the trend so much in the film she actually became green. I mean you cannot get anymore dedication than that (although I know that probably wasn't much to do with the trend more her turning into a witch, but never mind).

But ladies listen to the witches, if you don't wear emerald you can't be part of our coven (see what I did there). Let us know what you think of the trend!

Spring Wedding Season Favorites

2013-04-04T08:30:00.000-04:00

I remember at 6 years old, I had the rest of my life planned out- I'd be married by 23 and have a family by 25. Whether or not my six-year old self is disappointed, I'm happy with where my life is at 23 revolving around my closet rather than running around chasing children. This is not the case for all people my age as I see pictures of new engagement rings and pinterest boards five times a week.While some of us aren't rushing to say yes to THAT dress just yet, spring season is upon us and so are endless amounts of beautiful outdoor weddings.

Beach weddings, park weddings, intimate weddings, over-the-top weddings, you name it and there's a dress for it. I picked out my favorite options for every type of wedding you may be attending this season!

BEST DANCING DRESS
Bliss Gathered Halter Flare Dress with Belt, $495
Alice and Olivia

Manolo Blahnik Carolyne Suede High-Heel Halter in Green, $625
Bergdorf Goodman

BEST DAYTIME DRESS
Life of the Garden Party Dress, $144.99
Modcloth.com

Baka Cut Slingbacks
Anthropologie

BEST FORMAL EVENING DRESS
Sophisticated Fete Dress, $94.99
Modcloth.com

L.A.M.B Ohio Pump, $355
Piperlime.com

BEST CASUAL, INTIMATE DRESS
Sequined Georgette Dress, $32.80
Forever 21

Clickety Split Heel, $154.99
Modcloth.com

Kylie and Kendall Jenner for Pac Sun

2013-04-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

The two younger sisters of the infamous Kardashian/Jenner family have teamed up with Pac Sun to bring you great looks to update your summer wardrobe. From perfect-for-summer outerwear to accessories you can't live without, the girls are bringing a little bit of the golden state to their new line.

Little black dress available here

This twist on the LBD is flirty and playful. The quirky, gold accented collar adds somthing new to you're favorite classic. Totally reminds us of something that maybe Kourtney inspired!

High waisted shorts
available here

High waisted shorts are reappearing this summer, and we are just fine with that. These figure flattering pieces will add a touch of boho effortlesness to any outfit. Kylie and Kendall accented theirs with distressing and spikes.

Crochet tank available here

This crochet tank is the perfect mix and match piece. Wear it with jeans for a casual look or dress it up with a skirt and heels for a night out. The cut out in the back shows just the right amount of skin for summer.

Ombre denim shirt available here

Last but definitely not least, the denim shirt has stuck it out this year and continues to be a favorite piece of fashionistas everywhere. Mixing another favorite trend this year, ombre, the Jenners have created a great everyday piece.

Artist of the Moment: Lissie

2013-04-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

American folk rock artist, Lissie, is at the top of our summer playlists at the moment. Born in Rock Island, Illinois, Lissie got started off in the music industry when rocker Lenny Kravitz invited her to be the opening act for his Love Revolution Tour. Her EP "Why You Running'" was the next step in her career in November 2009. In June 2010, her first album "Catching a Tiger" was released, and we couldn't be more in love with the outcome. Some of our favorite songs from the album are "Cuckoo", "When I'm Alone" and "Lotta Lovin'". You might have heard Lissie or bought her album at American Eagle within the past couple years, also. Make sure to keep an eye out for Lissie and all her amazing YouTube covers.

Meredith Wendell x Sincerely, Jules

2013-03-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

One of our favorite bloggers Sincerely, Jules has recently collaborated with Meredith Wendell and Polyvore to create this amazing bag, pictured above. The "Saucy Pan" handbag has been in the works for months, and Jules seemed super excited on her recent blog post that she finally got to introduce the bag.

The collaboration started off with Jules being invited by Polyvore to design an exclusive handbag with Meredith Wendell, who is a member of the Polyvore Designer Collective.

The bag is super gorgeous and might we say the ideal Spring piece. It has a sporty, yet feminine look that can be paired with an outfit for a casual day out or a night on the town. Jules explains that they "wanted to incorporate smell details like the pop of neon in the tassel and the bronzy cross body strap to really help give the bag that extra oomph." The bag is also a perfect size since it's not too small, not too big. Best thing about it is that you can wear the bag 3 ways: crossbody, top handle, and clutch.

You purchase the Saucy Pan handbag at Bloomingdales for $395.

Our Picks From Madewell's Spring Collection

2013-03-30T08:00:00.000-04:00

1. Quirky Sunglasses: Instead of sticking with the usual aviator or wayfarer sunglasses, choose something more unique and fun this spring season like these Madewell Hepcat Shades; $55 at madewell.com

2. Pale Skirts: Bring back your innocent childhood days with this Madewell Something Else Laser Star Skirt; $106 at madewell.com that will keep you looking young and still classy and feminine.

3. Colorful Flats: Break away from your plain white or black flats with these perfect bright-colored Madewell Simple Mary Jane Wedges; $128 at madewell.com that will surely make a statement when the weather heats up.

4. Floral Dresses: As always, floral anything makes it's way into everyone's spring wardrobe. Let this Madewell Sessun Perkins Dress; $175 at madewell.com sneak in so you can show off your brilliant style while keeping it casual during the day or dressing it up at night.

5. Pastel Lingerie: Even though you might not be showing these off, you'll feel confortable and sexy underneath it all with this Honeydew x Madewell Lace Bralette; $32 at madewell.com and these Honeydew x Madewell Lace Boyshorts; $18 at madewell.com. Perfect for a little pinch of confidence when you need it most.

6. Mustard-colored Accessories: You may believe that mustard-colored accessories that should stick to being worn only during the fall season, but we totally disagree. This Madewell The Essex Messenger; $135 at madewell.com is the perfect bag to put all your items in while sneaking that masculine piece to your spring & girly wardrobe.

7. Long, Gold Necklaces: As you may already know, gold is the jewelry color of the season. It has snuck it's way into tons of runway shows along with the necks, arms, and fingers of celebrities everywhere. Madewell's Cheetah Necklace Pendant; $42 at madewell.com will do the trick of keeping that perfect touch of gold in your spring wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Zara Goes Tech

2013-03-29T09:00:00.000-04:00

In my recent customary online store trawl, I logged onto zara.com to find a very pleasant surprise. Zara’s gone all technical on us - and it’s beautiful.

As soon as you connect to the homepage, you are faced with a striking doe-eyed Zara model, who is then turned 360 degrees as the camera pans downwards, to reveal to a full view of her outfit, promoting Zara’s latest Spring collection. This short but sweet video experience is brilliantly executed. It is crisp, modern, clean cut, and allows you to perceive the clothing in a whole new light.

As the camera pans down, you are also presented with a definition of spring; a definition that really gets you in the mood to buy some new beige city shorts so stroll round in during this year’s midsummer nights. Then, when you click directly on the image, you are taken to Zara’s latest bunch of look books, which are equally as gorgeous.

I’ve seen videos on homepages before, but never like this. This blends directly into the page and the sidebar menu, creating something quite contemporary. Genius is the word I would use, and something us creative can really appreciate.

So here’s to you Zara, a big well done pat on the back, for making us fall even more in love your brand. I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Look Bronze without the Bed this Season!

2013-03-28T09:50:00.002-04:00

If you're anything like me, you love to be tan. But, you also hate hurting your skin in the process via tanning bed or UVA rays. With my sensitive skin, I wouldn't touch a tanning bed with a ten-foot pole, but I'd lay on the beach everyday if I could. Most of you know it's Spring Break season and if you're not fortunate enough to travel somewhere tropical as a broke college student, it's time to jumpstart our summers with some self-tanning!

I know what you're thinking: "But, I don't want to look orange." Well, neither do I, so here's a few products I've experimented with to turn me bronze without looking like a crayon:

Jergen's Natural Glow — Jergen's was the product I used all last winter! It's a lotion that should be applied (like all self-tanners) right after a shower (once dry, of course). Jergens is one of those products that will turn you orange if you do not buy the correct shade. If you have fair skin, I do not recommend buying Medium/Dark. I bought Light/Medium and the results were great. Jergens can be bought in any drugstore, Walmart, Target, etc. for about $9. Jergen's Natural Glow Moisturizer; $9; jergens.com

QuickTan — More recently, I've switched over to the realm of self-tanning sprays. Although I haven't personally tried this specific brand, I have friends who use it, and the results are beautiful to the point that I thought it was natural upon first meeting them. QuickTan is a little more pricey, around $20 and is found in places like Sally's Beauty Supply. I have yet to hear a bad review about this product, no streaks, just an even bronze. QuickTan Sunless Tanning Mist; $20; folica.com

Salon Bronze Tanning System — The Salon Bronze spray tanning system is my newest toy! Salon Bronze comes with a can of spray tan as well as an airbrush applicator to be used in the comfort of your own home for only $12.99! When I saw this product my first thought was that the price is unbeatable! I've begun using this product and the results are perfection. A nice, even brown color that looks like I just returned from Spring Break in the Bahamas! Salon Bronze Airbrush Tanning System; $12.99; amazon.com

All Hail Queen Delevingne

2013-03-25T09:00:00.000-04:00

Cara Delevingne is fashion’s latest darling. If you aren't familiar with her yet, you need to be ASAP. Famed for her stunning looks, quirky personality and those eyebrows, Cara became the queen of fashion month. She walked in a record 39 shows, including joining fellow Brit model Kate Moss at Louis Vuitton in Paris. The 20-year-old model also has campaigns with the likes of DKNY and Zara and of course, features in Burberry’s S/S13 campaign with Victoria and David Beckham’s son Romeo.

She may be the most in-demand model of the moment. Illustrator Simeon Farrar even designed a ‘Queen Delevinge’ tee in her honour for LFW. We love Cara because she put herself out there as a real girl. People can relate to her. She knows how to let lose! When she wasn’t partying with pals Rita Ora and Rihanna in London, she was filming this hilarious video backstage at Topshop Unique with fellow models Jourdan Dunn and Rosie Tapner. Beauty, style and a fun personality? Cara’s a girl after our own hearts.

Be Blemish-Free with BB Cream

2013-03-24T08:30:00.000-04:00

image from Style Seeking Zurich

The first time I heard about this amazing product was when one of my friends came back from Spring Break in China saying, "You have to try this!" She was waving a bottle of BB Cream in my face while saying it was a miracle in a bottle. The next thing I knew it was everywhere; every cosmetic brand was making it and everyone else was buying it.

For those of you who don't know, BB cream stands for "beauty balm" or "blemish balm." It was actually invented in the 50's and sold in Asia until the craze came to the US. Now, it has become an essential part of many people's daily makeup routine. BB cream is a light-weight serum that lightens any blemishes on one's face and makes for a more even look. The true miracle of BB cream is that it conforms to your skin tone so there's no need to worry about looking too light or too dark. It is to be worn under your foundation, but if your lucky enough, you may not even need it after BB cream corrects any flaws!

It can be found in all drugstores for as little as $8. I personally experimented with L'Oreal and Garnier brands and both do a great job. However, Garnier's product is also SPF 15 to protect your skin from UVA rays every day (yes, there are UVA rays in the winter!) as well as Vitamin C to fight brown spots from developing. Garnier's "Skin Renew BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector" comes in at about $12.99 and is worth every penny. I prefer to wear Light/Medium for my fair skin tone and in the Summer months switch over to Medium/Dark when I wear this cream in place of my foundation. BB Cream is a must-have for blemish-free, flawless skin!

Here are some of our favorite BB Cream's!

{ Clinique. Bobbi Brown. Smashbox. Shiseido. Rimmel. The Body Shop. CoverGirl }