Brooklyn Blonde

New Jumbo Chanel

2012-02-28T20:06:00.001-08:00

Welcome the newest addition to my handbag collection! I've been wanting this Jumbo Chanel for a few years and after a lot of thought, I decided to sell my Blue "Tempete" Balenciaga bag in "exchange" for this one. While I loved that Balenciaga, I was okay with giving it up in order to justify this one (something I've been planning to do for a bit).

For those that are wondering, I bought this bag on eBay, for significantly less than I'd pay for a Chanel in a store. I only buy from reputable sellers and I always authenticate my bags on The Purse Forum before I commit to buying. I've been lucky enough to find all my handbags this way, but this one might be my favorite.

You're Making me Blush

2012-02-26T21:21:00.005-08:00

Zara Skirt & Leather Jacket, Loeffler Randall Shoes, Kate Spade Anchor Bracelet, Lauren Elan Capri Cuff Bracelet c/o, Gorjana Initial Necklace

Layered Blue

2012-02-24T08:24:00.006-08:00

Tommy Hilfiger Blazer, Aqua Faux Fur Vest, Paige "Santa Monica Jeans" c/o, Louboutin Shoes, Vintage Chanel, Portolano Gloves, Karen Walker Sunglasses.
If I'm not in the mood for a bulky coat, especially with the rather mild winter we've been experiencing, I'm all about layering my fur vests on top of either a blazer or a thinner jacket. Also done here a few months ago.

Rouge in Love

2012-02-24T08:07:00.001-08:00

A few months ago, I teamed up with Lancome for their new "Rouge in Love" line. The concept was 3 different females in 3 different cities: myself from New York, Gala from London and Kenza from Paris, and the different ways we wear our lipstick & polish. I met the crew in my everyday hair, makeup and clothes and although I came into it extremely anxious & nervous (having never done a video before), the crew made me feel at ease in minutes. Such a fun day of shooting and I walked away from it having a new love for the Rouge in Love line. Hope you enjoy!

Vintage Miroslava

2012-02-22T10:43:00.000-08:00

All images from The Purse Forum. Thanks to them for introducing me to her!
I don't often do posts like this, but last week when attending the Ralph Lauren show, I spotted Miroslava Duma (within arms reach) and although I kept it cool on the outside, on the inside, I was completely starstruck and freaking out. Way before I started this blog or read any others, I started seeing images of this beauty popping up in a thread dedicated to her style on The Purse Forum. I didn't know much about her at the time except that she worked for Russian Harpers Bazaar and always had the most incredible looks. Years later, she still remains my #1 style icon. Her looks are always a perfect combination of chic, feminine and edgy. To top it off, she was the most stylish pregnant woman I've ever seen.
There are so many incredible images of her online these days, but here are some of my "vintage" photos that I've had saved in my inspiration folder.
(Side note: she was often pictured with her equally stylish best friend, Natasha Goldenberg. Also shown in the last image. Remember her in that stunning pink suit a few seasons back?!)

Dots, Stripes & Leather

2012-02-21T07:49:00.000-08:00

Top Shop Pants, J Crew Top, Hinge Leather Vest, Zara Boots, Balenciaga City, Bracelets: Lauren Elan Capri Cuff & McQueen, Poshlocket ring. Lipstick: MAC Watch Me Simmer, Nails: Urban Outfitters Hot Tub.

Ordered these pants from the Top Shop website and finally got them 1 month later...

Sunday Brunch with Friends

2012-02-20T08:55:00.001-08:00

Volcom Parka, Equipment Top, GAP Scarf, ASOS Leather Shorts, Amanda Schutz Shoes, Balenciaga Bag, YSL Sunglasses c/o, Bracelets: Lauren Elan, Hermes. On Inna: Kelsi Dagger Boots, Necessary Clothing Jeans, Hermes Bag, Not sure what Jacket & Scarf are...

A very spur of the moment Sunday resulted in having brunch with one of my closest friends, Inna at Jeffrey's in the West Village. Keith had to get to work to finish a project and took Mika, our Wheaten Terrier with him. Some might be wondering where Pete was (our Mini Schnauzer) but since he gets a little crazy in the car, he stayed at home for a few hours.

NYFW Snapshots

2012-02-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

Truly an unforgettable week from start to finish.

I felt so lucky to attend some shows like Milly, Nanette Lepore, Tibi, Rebecca Minkoff and Ralph Lauren and to spend time with some incredible people. Here are some snaps from this past week.
1. Alice & Olivia Pants & J Crew Top.
2. Behind the scenes of the Polyvore show. A bunch of us sporting pants in fun colors and patterns.
3. One of my favorite looks from the Ralph Lauren show. Adore the mix of patterns and textures.
4. Outside the Ralph Lauren Store after visiting their Accessories Preview.
5. Behind the scenes at Polyvore. With Carly both wearing looks by Celestino.
6. My favorite look at Nanette Lepore. Adore the chartreuse & jade color combo.
7. The beautiful Blair & I at the Bloglovin' awards.
8. Hair for the Polyvore show.
9. Favorite looks at Milly. So bright and cheerful!
10. At the Currently Obsessed party with Wendy & Anh.
11. Details..
12. Behind the scenes at Polyvore. All looks from Gavaskar.
13. With Krystal & Heather.

Grey Out

2012-02-14T08:06:00.000-08:00

Current Elliott Jeans, Rebecca Minkoff Shoes, American Apparel Tee, Zara Jacket, GAP Sunglasses, Rolex Watch, Balenciaga City Bag, Bracelets: Hermes, McQueen, Poshlocket. Nails: Urban Outfitters "Hot Tub." Lips: MAC "Impassioned."
It just happens that my two last blog outfits include leopard print pants. The funniest part is that the last time I wore leopard pants was my senior year of High School to a Spring Break Cancun trip (Senior Frogs, anyone?) A few years back, I remember looking at old photos with my best friend and saying "can you believe those pants?" And here I am again. Well I must admit, I love pairing this printed pattern with something a bit more basic in both color and pattern.
Oh and if my dad is reading this (hi dad!), I promise to give you your watch back!
More importantly, Happy Valentines Day!!!

#NYFW

2012-02-11T22:25:00.000-08:00

Tibi Pants, Elizabeth & James Top c/o SITM, Louboutin Shoes, Balenciaga bag, HRH Collection Necklace, YSL Ring, E&J Sunglasses (also, how cool is this leopard pair?!). Dallin Chase Leather Jacket, Lipstick: MAC "Watch Me Simmer."
New York Fashion Week is already in full swing and the city has such an incredible energy, it's hard to put it into words. The best part is having so many of my ~~blogger~~ friends in town! I was reunited with many of my favorites and FINALLY got to meet some others, who I wish I could keep in New York forever.
I'm also so excited to be attending the Bloglovin' Awards tomorrow! Follow me on Instagram (@brooklynblonde1) for some fun pic updates.
In other news, on Monday, I'm one of the bloggers walking down the runway for Polyvore Live & Covergirl Fashion Show. Excited and TOTALLY nervous!

Cut It Out {Part II}

2012-02-09T05:10:00.000-08:00

Equipment Top, H&M Shorts, Express Tights, Sergio Rossi Boots, Lauren Elan Necklace.
After getting an incredible amount of use out of the tan version of this shirt (worn here and here) I decided it made complete sense to break down and get it in black. I like to find ways to justify certain purchases, but all in all, cost divided by wear, it almost pays for itself (like my reasoning?).

Details, Details

2012-02-08T04:31:00.000-08:00

Sources: 1. My Own, 2. Pink Fox, 3. Jak & Jil, 4. Classy in the City Tumblr, 5. My Own, 6. Classy in the City Tumblr, 7. My Own, 8. Jack & Jil. 9. My Own.

Cold Return

2012-02-06T07:33:00.000-08:00

Rich & Skinny Jeans, Thrifted Faux Fur Coat, Zara Sweater, J Crew Belt, Vintage Chanel, Louboutin Shoes. Karen Walker Sunglasses, Bracelets: Poshlocket, J Crew, Hermes. Nails: Essie "Lacquered Up." Lips: Revlon "Love that Red."

Kicking off Monday after a great, and quite productive, weekend.

It consisted of dog park runs, seeing friends I haven't seen in awhile, spotting Chace Crawford (Gossip Girl) at Abe & Arthurs Friday night and of course, a pretty energy fueled Super Bowl party. New York is sure to be crazy this week, with Fashion Week events kicking off + the Giants Super Bowl parade - I'm bracing myself (in the best possible way).

Hope you all had a great weekend and as always, thank you for reading!

xo,

Helena

Super Flare

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

GoldSign Jeans c/o, Zara Jacket, Kelly Wearstler Scarf c/o, J Crew Necklace & Belt, Balenciaga City Bag, GAP Sunglasses.

It's no secret that I love a good pair of jeans and I usually stick to skinny jeans in various colors and styles. However, meet my latest pair: these extreme flares that happen to be one of the softest and most comfortable pairs I own. Seriously.
***
On another note, awhile ago I mentioned about an incredible Lancome project I collaborated on, for the launch of their new line, "Rouge in Love." Here's another sneak peek video.
**
Thanks to Christine, for giving Keith a break and being my photographer for the last few outfits!
(such a perk of having another blogger as one of your good friends!)

Floral Touch

2012-01-31T11:09:00.000-08:00

Equipment Top (last year, but here's my other favorite floral version), ASOS Leather Skirt, Loeffler Randall Shoes, YSL Ring. Nails: Julep "Helena." (yes, I was pretty psyched about the name of that polish!) Balenciaga "Work" in Sanguine.
Finally joined Currently Obsessed, where you could stalk all the things I love or am obsessed with.
And here I'm wearing another LA outfit...bare legs and all.

Two Tone

2012-01-30T01:26:00.000-08:00

Paige Jeans c/o, Jean Michael Cazabat Shoes, Anarchy Street Top c/o, HRH Collection Necklace, Bracelets: McQueen & Hermes, Marc by Marc Jacobs Watch, Vintage Chanel Watch, McQueen Ring, E&J Sunglasses. Nails: Julep "Carrie."

Heading back to New York this afternoon after spending 5 wonderful days in LA. Going to take the rest of the week to regroup, run some errands and catch up on some work before New York Fashion Week.
***
On another note, announcing the winner of the Jennifer Zeuner giveaway (using random.org)
Jessica A.
Congrats!!

Hello, Sunshine

2012-01-27T01:58:00.000-08:00

J Crew Jeans, Elizabeth & James Top c/o of Shop It To Me, Loeffler Randall Shoes, HRH Collection Necklace, Elizabeth & James Sunglasses, Balenciaga Bag. Bracelets: Alex & Ani, Amrita Singh, Hermes. Marc by Marc Jacobs Watch.
Yesterday I arrived in LA (along with Christine, for both work & play) and I'm still having a hard time believing we're in the middle of January and it's 80 degrees. The craziest part is that I left my sleeping bag coat (which is not cute at all), gloves and hat behind to put on this particular outfit and actually felt pretty hot for most of the day. I'd totally be lying if I said I wasn't enjoying it.

**Special shout out to Vanessa, who is amazing enough to let us stay at her incredibly beautiful apartment. **

Dressing Up & Down with StyleMint.

2012-01-24T11:07:00.000-08:00

Outfit #1: StyleMint T, J Brand Velvet Leggings, Louboutin Shoes, Vintage Chanel, H&M Blazer, Karen Walker Sunglasses, ASOS Faux Fur Snood, Bracelets: J Crew, Hermes, McQueen.
Outfit #2: StyleMint T, ASOS Skirt, HRH Collection Necklace, Bracelets: Amrita Singh & Alex & Ani. Lipstick: MAC Impassioned.
Outfit #3: StyleMint T, Paige Jeans c/o, Madewell Shoes, Volcom Parka, Shawlsmith London Scarf, Karen Walker Sunglasses.
***
I'm sure by now you've heard of StyleMint, but if not, let me tell you:

Launched by Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen, a new membership-only, e-commerce site that offers amazing T Shirts for the affordable price of $29.99.

As for how StyleMint works, it's simple. When you first sign up, you answer a short series of questions about your personal style. Once you're done with the quiz, you can choose from one of four T Shirt styles, many of which are available in multiple colors. If you don't see a shirt you like, it's no problem because there's no obligation to buy. If you do find the perfect option (or two, or three!), you get free shipping, plus returns are easy. Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen design each T Shirt, and I have to say that the results are totally chic and definite must-buys. Everything is extremely high quality too—think: super-soft fabrics and amazing fits. From personal experience, I can assure you of that.

To become a member and get personally styled T Shirts for just $29.99 each + free shipping, click here.
Use the promo code BROOKLYN for 30% off your first T, first time buyers only, valid until 1/31.

Disclosure: Although this is a sponsored post, I would never (ever) partner with a brand I didn't stand behind.

Fruit Stripe

2012-01-23T07:27:00.000-08:00

ASOS Dress, Madewell Pumps, ASOS Coat (last year), Express Tights, Vintage Chanel Bag, Karen Walker Sunglasses, Gloves via Macy's. Jewelry: Poshlocket, Hermes, J Crew. Lipstick: MAC Impassioned.

I've always said that January is one of my least favorite months of the year, with everything being quite grey and dreary on the East Coast and the temperatures making it almost impossible to want to (or even care to) look even remotely fashionable.
After being sick with the stomach flu + a cold for over a week (and living in pajamas), I was itching to dress up a little for a get together with some friends. I went all out in the color department, although I promise, I did wear snow boots while trekking along the snow outside.
***
On a completely different subject, recently I worked on an amazing project with Lancome, which I'll share with you all in a few weeks. In the meantime, here's a little teaser.

Strappy & Suede

2012-01-20T06:02:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting these strappy YSL shoes ever since they came out (2 years ago?) yet didn't want to pay full price (then again, who does?) A few weeks ago while browsing eBay, I spotted them for a great price and after a bit of negotiating with the seller, I finally made them mine!
***
Happy Friday!

Sealed with a Bow + a Giveaway

2012-01-18T02:43:00.000-08:00

J Crew Coat, ASOS Pussy Bow Shirt, Zara Jeans (old), Loeffler Randall Shoes, Brahmin Handbag c/o, Bracelets: Jennifer Zeuner c/o, Poshlocket Bamboo Bracelets c/o, Bauble Bar, Vintage Belt.

For a chance to win this incredible Jennifer Zeuner bracelet.

Like YaYa Publicity on Facebook here.

Follow YaYa Publicity on Twitter here.

Follow Brooklyn Blonde on Twitter here.

Let me know why you love the bracelet and leave a comment with your name.

****

Winner will be announced in a week. Stay tuned!

Soft Sweep

2012-01-15T21:46:00.000-08:00

Zara Dress (recent), Dolce Vita Leather Jacket, Madison Harding Booties, GAP Sunglasses, Amrita Singh Bangles, MAC Pink Nouveau Lipstick.
In spirit of award show season (which is one of my favorite times of year), I wore this flowy Zara dress. Wanting to dress it down a bit, I paired it with my grey leather jacket and lace up booties.

Touch of Sequin

2012-01-12T09:34:00.000-08:00

Dallin Chase Leather Jacket, Bebe Sequin Bodysuit (sold out online), Alice + Olivia Pants, Lodis Clutch c/o, Marc by MJ Watch, Bracelets: Alexander McQueen, Hermes. Karen Walker Sunglasses.
Nothing like a little sequins to jazz up a work-type outfit. This is actually a body suit that my best friend, Susy, gave to me for my birthday several months ago. Since then, I've worn it on New Years Eve, dressed up a pair of boyfriend jeans and now wearing it like this.

Mix it Up

2012-01-11T08:23:00.000-08:00

J Crew Shirt, H&M Sweater & Jeans, Madison Harding Boots, Balenciaga Bag, GAP Sunglasses, Banana Republic Coat. Rolex Watch, David Yurman Bangle c/o, Nails: Hot Tub via Urban Outfitters.
Wore this outfit to run some errands, meet Keith for lunch and enjoy a surprisingly warm January day.

Beauty Essentials

2012-01-10T11:17:00.000-08:00

I've always been a huge beauty junkie, constantly searching websites like MakeupAlley to see what people were loving and raving about. In the past few years, my beauty/product obsession has slightly decreased as I've found certain products that I'm completely happy with. Here are what I call my "holy grails" in the beauty department.

For links and product details, continue reading after the jump.

Beauty
Urban Decay Naked Palette: since buying this palette, I have not used any other eyeshadows (seriously). Texture and color choice is incredible and in my opinion, a must for anyone who wears eyeshadow. Urban Decay recently came out with the Naked Palette 2, which I'm itching to get.

Nars Bronzer in Laguna: I've tried many other bronzers, but always come back to this shade. Perfect for fair skinned gals, like myself. A few of my olive-skinned friends love the darker shade, Casino.

Chanel Double Perfection Powder Foundation: most other products make me greasy an hour after applying, while this never does. Plus this never goes on heavy, but is buildable if you want a bit more coverage.
*if your skin is very dry, I don't recommend this.

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer - apply before your eyeshadow and have crease free color all day.

YSL Touche Eclat - an under eye highlighter that makes me look like I got a full 8 hours of sleep.

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler - in my opinion, the best eyelash curler out there, hands down.

Benefit Posietint - a little swipe of this gives me pretty rosy cheeks that lasts way longer than any powder blush.

Polish Up
Sally Hansen Instant Cuticle Remover - my nail guru friend recommended this to me a few year ago and it's the best at removing and pushing back cuticles in less than 5 minutes.

Seche Vite Top Coat - nothing else gives me such a high-shine polish that lasts for days.

Essie Lacquered Up - favorite red.

Essie Borrowed & Blue - favorite pastel (worn here).

Deborah Lippmann Shake Your Groove Thing - favorite party polish.

Hair Care
GHD Flat Iron - a flat iron that truly lives up to it's hype (was using the Chi before and I like this way better). My favorite part is that it has universal voltage, which is ideal for someone who travels internationally.

Nexxus Emergencee Protein Treatment - I should have probably made a separate post on this, but I'll try to give a summarized version on the importance of a protein treatment. As a person who uses heat products quite often, colors her hair on occasion (I do my own roots, but get highlights 2x a year), this product is a life saver. I highly recommend reading the reviews/instructions here. Cannot live without this stuff and I buy in bulk from eBay since it's a bit hard to find in stores.

Feria Conditioner - favorite everyday conditioner, which might be too heavy for some, but I adore it.

Serge Normant Shampoo & Conditioner - recently discovered this stuff thanks to a friend of mine and it's become my favorite shampoo & conditioner. Plus, it smells delicious.

Skincare
Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar - as someone who has suffered from acne-prone skin, I need to keep it relatively simple. I've been using this since High School, and anytime I stray, I always come back to it. Plus, it helps that my Derm recommends this to a lot of her patients.

Olay Complete, Sensitive Skin - another product I've been using since HS and always come back to.

Dermalogica Microfoliant - my favorite exfoliator that is extremely gentle, even for everyday use.

Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion - the best product for cystic acne. A few drops of this and my blemish heals 10x quicker.

Dior Facial Self Tanner - I've tried every self tanner out there and this one is my favorite. It always looks natural and never streaks.

If you guys have any questions, ask away! I'll try to answer everything.