Burgundy Whispers

Supplemental Catalog

2013-05-18T00:09:00.002-04:00

Free People has done it again! They have created another beautiful video that illustrates their current catalog collection to the fullest! I love how well Free People was able to mesh the drama of a love story with a retail catalog lifestyle. It's pretty much everything I would imagine a frequent Free People shopper would wear and where she would wear the clothes to.

As you may know about me, I'm a sucker for love stories and dramas, this video really captured my heart's interest with the story line. In the first edition of Roshambo we got to see how the love was sparked by the main characters, Sheila and Christopher. What a beautiful and ubiquitous way to fall in love! In this video, we see how Sheila's world has changed since meeting Christopher. She can't get him off her mind, since they've parted ways and a new man shows up during her trip to Brazil that could be just what she needs! I must confess though, that it was a bit difficult paying attention to the clothes because of all the eye candy (aka the men!).

I love this short film series because not only is it selling the clothes, but also selling tourism. A fashion film that tells a story with out the "commercial" aspect interfering. Great marketing technique, Free People! The tangible catalog, serves as a supplement for the film, it provides still images from the film and continues the story more in depth.

Check out the video and let me know your thoughts!

Tie Dye Affection

2013-05-14T23:10:00.003-04:00

Ever since my finding of these bleach splattered jeans, i've been on the hunt for more fantastic tie dyed pieces to add to my arsenal! Tie dye printed jeans have this very lively and lived in feel to them that completes the perfect warm weathered look! This is probably the "bajillionth" pair of BDG jeans that I own, BDG just knows how to make great jeans!

Tie dye was popularized by the music goers of Woodstock in the 1960's, which is why many associate the trend with "hippies" and "hipsters." It's a print that is fairly easy to recreate on one's own and alludes a cool and carefree attitude. My mother calls me a "hippie" all the time, I'm ok with it because it was a beautiful era for fashion and music!

Jeans: BDG Jeans, shirt & necklace: Free People, sunnies & sandals: gifted

My hunt for more tie dye is not over! Dear readers, what is your take on the tie dye trend? How do you like to wear it?

#RevoltNow!

2013-05-12T21:11:00.003-04:00

By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

For the past couple of weeks i've been on a strict fitness regime that's been really kicking my butt! Staying healthy and fit is as important to me as great skin care, the way we take care of our bodies now really determines about 90% of our health later in our lives. That's why when Revolt Fitness asked me to be a part of their special 6 week program, I was definitely into it! The program provides a specific meal plan and exercise plan, the exercising is the easy part!

For the first week of the Revolt, the meal plan was all about detoxing, cleansing our palettes of all the unnecessary sugars and fats we've indulged. Talk about difficult! It also doesn't help that my co workers at my job are constantly providing sweets everyday! I'm not really one to eat excess sugars and sweets but I like to sometimes treat myself to the occasional dark chocolate bars! The diet for that week consisted of lots of eggs, greens, grapefruits and oats. Absolutely no sugar, no flour and no alcohol! It's recommended for the diet to remain that way for the whole six weeks but super pertinent for the detox week. Also, every month is packed with new recipes and over 100 substitutions which is perfect for vegetarians, like myself. I've grown up most of my life believing that eating in moderation is the best way, which is why switching over to Revolt's meal program was a bit difficult for me but I've been managing it pretty well!

The exercise routines are really challenging, Nicole Huntsman, the coordinator of the program, created it similarly to the routines of the US marines training. It's definitely a flab blaster! As an adolescent, I've always loved sports, I have participated in soccer teams, tennis teams, track & field teams, and dance teams. I love a good challenge! So far the fitness routines have proven just that and I'm starting to notice a great deal of definition, which has me psyched for beach season!

So far, I'm loving the Revolt Fitness program, cannot wait to update you on the final week of it. Dear readers, what do you do to keep yourself in shape?

Beauty Bit, Mixed Chicks Haircare

2013-05-09T15:56:00.002-04:00

All illustrations by Jacqueline Davis Moranti

Once it gets warm out, it's time to strip off the layers of clothes we so hid our bodies in! No more coats and thick sweaters, socks and boots, away with you too! The warm weather is also the perfect time to strip your hair of all those heavy products laden with preservatives to keep it moisturized. Don't get me wrong, we still want moisturized hair throughout the spring and summer season, just not heavily applied.

If you're like me and have a head full of tight curls, then you probably spend a lot of time trying to keep it moist, because as we all know, curly hair is the driest type of hair, no matter how much conditioner you soak it with! Fortunately, I recently got to try out the Mixed Chicks Haircare line... and well let me tell you how it went!

The products from the line that I used are the Sulfate- Free Shampoo, Deep Conditioner, Leave- in Conditioner and Hair Silk. All of the products used are formulated without preservatives, parabens, and sulfates meaning it won't strip your hair of it's natural oils, aka no more frizz! And of course no animals were harmed in the making of the Mixed Chicks products.

When ever you start using a new products on your hair, you must always start of by cleansing out all of the previous products used. That way, you start off on a clean slate! The Mixed Chicks Sulfate Free Shampoo is the perfect shampoo, it does not leave my hair feeling dry after using it. Instead my curls feel clumped together and not frizzed and separated! Frizz is my absolute enemy!

Next step, is the most important for curly headed women, deep conditioning! As I've mentioned before, keeping curly hair moisturized is crucial, that's where using the Mixed Chicks Deep Conditioner comes in. It smells fantastic and has a great consistency. With this product, a little bit goes a long way! I like to leave it on for 10 minutes after combing it through my hair. After rinsing it out, I apply a genourous amount of the Mixed Chicks Leave- in Conditioner and then scrunch it in. I'm not one to towel dry my hair, I feel it takes away too much moisture. Then after throwing my hair into a top knot, for a few hours until it's dry, I add the Mixed Chicks Hair Silk, for some luxurious shine.

I love how straight to the point these products are, I've used other hair products that have so many specific instructions on how to actually achieve the look they want you to go for. I don't like to spend too much time on my hair, it's enough of a task as it is! Also, just because the products are called "Mixed Chicks" does not mean you have to be a mixed chick to use it! I'm not bi- racial by any means, i'm actually 100% latina, my family hails from South America. These products are just meant to solve your curly hair woes, which it did and then some! My BF keeps telling me how wonderful my hair smells and looks, and i've even had strangers tell me they love my hair. When strangers are complimenting my hair, I think that's a score!

I think Mixed Chicks haircare will definitely be products I reach for, for a long time! Loving life without frizz, and you should too!

Ps, actual hair pictures to come in upcoming outfit posts!

Mint Chic

2013-05-01T22:19:00.002-04:00

By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

Lately, I've been spotting tons of beautiful people in one of Spring's hottest colors, mint! The color of a reminiscent seafoam, it lies between the blue and the green pastels on the colorwheel. This color reminds us of nature, it's calming essence that also signals youth. Designers Liz and Laura Rymer, ellelauri, definitely knocked that concept out of the park with their mint green collection, it exudes the right amount of adolescence, but still maintain it's flirty sophistication! Each piece in the collection have the perfect slew of versatility, everything in the line can be worn in many ways to cocktail rendezvous, family brunches, hot dates, music festivals and well, you name it!

The ellelauri designers boast proudly of their merchandise being an accessible luxury for women all over, with their price point averages ranging from $100-$250 make it a great and affordable investment for our closets!

ellelauri has definitely captured this season's green sophistication with their latest collection. I can envision myself pairing any one of these pieces with jackets and accessories of mine to wear for days! Dear readers, what do you think of ellelauri's youthful mint collection?

Virtual Shopping Party

2013-04-30T12:58:00.001-04:00

It was a night of socializing, making statements and poshing! What's "poshing" you ask?! It's a verb for the act of using this new app called Poshmark. It's a mobile platform that allows people from across the country sell and buy clothes, it's a one stop shop for fashionistas! It's pretty fantastic, i've gotten pretty acquainted with it too, you can check out my virtual closet at https://poshmark.com/closet/jdavismoranti. The Poshmark party was all about getting everyone familiar with the app, which is currently only on IOS platforms. Believe me, you will get hooked on it like I am!

Outfit photos by Melissa Alam

Dress: Sugarlips Apparel, jacket: Forever21, belt & bracelets: Club Monaco, necklace: Anthropologie, pumps: Shoedazzle

That night I wanted to make a statement in black and white. It's a bold trend that I absolutely love for the spring time. It's easy to pair and has a wide variety of options, plus it's timeless. Seriously, black and white is a true closet savior! Dear readers, have you tried the Poshmark app, what do you think of it?

Who's That Girl, Chaucee Stillman

2013-04-29T20:03:00.000-04:00

By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

Her name is Chaucee Stillman and she's one of my favorite bloggers right now! She's also a fantastic photographer, just check out her portfolio for the proof! Her blog, Streets & Stripes, is all about showcasing the best in Philly, including boutiques, restaurants/ cafes, designers, and of course her take on fashion! She also recently started showcasing the newest addition to her family, her sweet little puppy, I have such a warm spot for animals! Check out Miss Stillman's fantastic blog for the young creative and culturally aware reader. You may just fall in love with the City of Brotherly Love through her vision just like I did, or do!

The Power of The Flower

2013-04-27T11:03:00.000-04:00

Wearing floral print just has a way to make any upsetting situation into something exciting! It probably has something to do with young girls being predisposed to flowers and everything girly. That may be the factor with my obsession with pink! I can't help it if I love to embrace my femininity!

Denim: Current/ Elliott, blouse, flats & belt: J. Crew, sunnies: gifted

Dear readers, how do you like to embrace your feminine side?

Raid The Warehouse With Gilt!

2013-04-24T17:10:00.000-04:00

Gilt.com, one of the best shopping destinations online came to Philadelphia for a night of sweet treats and cheap finds! Everything from home goods, to prom dresses and mens suiting was available, and boy was everyone hunting! It was a surreal experience, almost like those movie clips where you see women fighting over that last Dooney & Burke bag! Loved every bit of this experience and can't wait for Gilt to set up another event like this in Philly soon! I scored a great piece of merchandise that night too, which I will show you in an upcoming post! Although, if you follow my instagram, you've probably already seen it! Also, everyone who attended received a $20 credit, just for being there, meaning my purchase was a total steal!

I think it's a great idea for e-commerce sites to travel through out different cities and provide it's services on a more personal level to create more of a connection with it's customers, that's how keep people coming for more!

My BFFs and local Philly bloggers, Chaucee Stillman and Mecca Nuri

Want to see if Gilt is coming to your neck of the woods?! Check out Giltcity.com!

Beauty Bit, Tarte Cosmetics

2013-04-22T18:54:00.000-04:00

by Jacqueline Davis Moranti

You know when you find one amazing product you want to try all of the products in that same line?! That is exactly what happened to me when I tried out one product from the Tarte Cosmetics line a few years ago. It was like a magical experience! I was in Sephora, one beautiful, sunny day, after class, looking for a lip stain when I was enraptured by the Tarte Cosmetics display wall. I'm a sucker for cute packaging and beautiful typography! Also everything about the products were so good, organic, healthy and nourishing for our skin, why wouldn't I fall in love?! Tarte Cosmetics is "earth engineered" and with out parabens and synthetic fragrances, instead it includes vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts to enhance our natural beauty!

In celebration of Earth Day I introduce you to my top five favorite products from the Tarte Cosmetics line....

(One) The main reason I stumbled upon this line, was because of the great reviews I had been seeing about it's lip stains, Lipsurgence Lip Tint. It's a stain, it's a gloss, and most importantly, it's a balm that provides moisture unlike other lip stains i've tried that just dry your lips out. There's a wide range of colors to fall in love with, and I love them all! There's even a selection of matte colors too. My favorite way to apply, is on top of lip liner to enhance the impact of the color. It helps create more of a WOW factor! The best part about this product is that it's goof proof, it's as if your applying a crayon on your lips!

(Two) I'm a sucker for anything that infuses a bit of shimmer to my daily routine! The Amazonian Clay BB Illuminating Moisturizer does just that, it gives my skin a beautiful glow without overdoing it. I actually combine it with my moisturizer that contains SPF to help protect my skin from harmful UV rays. Before buying the full size of this product, I had received it as a sample and knew I needed to get more before it was done! I use this moisturizer sparingly because a little bit goes a long way.

(Three) There used to be a time when I could care less about using a highlighting powder, it seemed pointless. Then one day I came across the Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder, it was pure love! Using a highlighter really helps to enhance your cheekbones and brows like you would never imagine. It provides a beautiful and radiant glow and lasts for hours. The color I use is called "Champagne" but it really should be called golden because it makes my features glow with gold!

(Four) Blush, one of my beauty essentials! Nothing like a pretty flushed look to go about your day! Tarte's Amazonian Clay 12- Hour Blush is one of my favorite products, the colors really blend well with my complexion. I've used other blushes before that never seemed to show up on my skin which was really frustrating! This blush is natural looking and only requires about three swipes with the brush to show up, a little bit goes a long way with this product too!

(Five) Sometimes we hear our alarm clocks go off, and in the midst of that alert we may accidently hit the snooze button. Then when you finally get up you realize you have less time than you imagined! I've had those mornings plenty of times, and while you're rushing along to leave the house you skip parts of your makeup routine. The Bright Side Double-Ended Brightener is the only product I ever need for mornings like that! It helps me look awake and well rested by giving a little bit of pop to my eyes! I have very sensitive skin around my eyes, I've always had trouble finding the right eye makeup that didn't make my eyes tear up. This product causes no irritation at all because of it's natural ingredients!

There you have it, a little bit of my favorite makeup products! Tarte Cosmetics really knows how to appeal to us gals with it's natural ingredients and pretty packaging! Dear readers, have you used any Tarte products?

***Ps, this is not a sponsored post, I just love these products!

I Dream of.... Onsies!

2013-04-19T15:18:00.001-04:00

By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

We all know that with Spring, marks the beginning of music festival season and with that a lot of us music connoisseurs need fuss free, easy, but still fabulous outfits! I've been recently looking at tons of onsies lately, aka jumpsuits/ rompers and i'm so drawn to how simple it is.

Onsies are easy to wear, no need to worry about what pant or top will look great with it because it's both! The only thing you will ever need to pair with it is a pair of sky high heels and that statement necklace in your armoire. My onsie obsession started with the jumpsuit I tried on at Club Monaco a few weeks ago! It was comfortable and flattering and I knew I had to have it! I also recently styled a DVF (see image below) jumpsuit on a model recently for a Stardust Magazine shoot! Definitely a big trend for this upcoming summer season!

Check out some of my favorite onsies! Hopefully they will become you warm weather staple like it did for me!

A Posh Party

2013-04-18T20:22:00.000-04:00

If you're like me, then you have a closet full of items you don't wear or even remember owning. At those times, you consider the options of either donating those items or selling them. I usually stick to donating only because I find it too difficult to sell on Ebay or stores like Buffalo Exchange. There's nothing wrong with donating your gently used items, but sometimes you want to try something different, something that really benefits your wallet!

I've tried Ebay, it's great, but Ebay is mostly beneficial for selling home goods or tech gadgets. Although, Ebay has stepped up by providing a fashion section for the fashion obsessed. Even then, you have to pay a listing fee and a seller's fee to sell your items, which is why I'm so gaga over the Poshmark app!

Poshmark is a free Iphone(also works with Ipad and Ipod Touch) app that allows you to shop and peruse the closets from thousands of women across the country! I've already taken a peek at Bonnie Barton's, Hilary Rushford's, Naty Michele's, and Stephanie Liu's closets! It's fun to see what fabulous items other bloggers are selling! You can also take a look at my closet too. It's a really fun way to shop and engage with bloggers and women across the nation. Poshmark focuses on selling clothing and accessories only, making it easier to shop and sell fashion, unlike Ebay. It also doesn't require a listing fee, always a plus for me!

Another great feature of the app is the virtual shopping parties! The "Posh Parties" are real time shopping events dedicated to buying and selling under a specific theme. So if you're shopping for a hot little number from BCBG, make sure to join that party!

Recently, Poshmark announced that they would be hosting a live Posh Party in Philadelphia, and asked me to be one of the co- hosts of the shindig. I'm thrilled to be a part of something that's very beneficial for us fashionistas and with my fellow Philly bloggers (see image)! If you're in the Philadelphia area, on the April 23rd evening, make sure to stop by, for a night of selling, mingling, and shopping! And of course, the party's theme is appropriately "Spring Fling!"

Make sure to RSVP by April 22nd to rsvp@poshmark.com! Don't worry, if you cannot attend physically that does not mean you can't shop virtually! Join the fun by downloading the app or from the site, http://poshmark.com. Now I just have to figure out what to wear for the party! Will I see you there?

Tastemakers, Solange Knowles

2013-04-15T18:47:00.000-04:00

By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

In 2009, there was a bit of a controversy in pop culture. It had to do with a newly "natural" diva, named Solange! She was the talk of Tinseltown because of her cropped 'do, everyone had something to say and not many were nice comments. Even today, "natural" hair is still frowned upon. I was really pleased that a mainstream celebrity would make such a bold move, most women under the lime light would want to maintain the traditional beauty that society says and portrays to them. This is what really got my attention on Solange Knowles, the fact that she wasn't afraid to be herself and remove herself from what is mainstream. Her hair is of course fabulous but her style has definitely sky rocketed since then, Solange is is the queen of funky pant suits and unique prints!

I truly appreciate anyone who can mix and match patterns like a pro! As well as turn the pantsuit into a fashionable statement! Solange is classy, with flair of bohemian edge, which totally makes her a great candidate for a tastemaker! Let's not forget that not being afraid to be who you are is also a fashion statement.

Gilt City Warehouse Event

2013-04-12T13:41:00.003-04:00

If you love a good sample sale than you will love this event! Gilt City is coming to Philadelphia to host a warehouse sale on April 19th. For those of you that may not be too familiar with Gilt City, it's a fantastic site that offers top designer brands at 90% of the retail price. Now that's a steal! Gilt City is most commonly known to be a member's only shopping experience but this event is open to the public! By purchasing your ticket you will have access to access exclusive merchandise first, from fashion for women, men and children to home accessories at affordable prices. There's also a sweet little contest going on for that night....

CONTEST: Attendees are also invited to tweet and instagram a photo of what they purchased from the Warehouse Sale by using the hashtag #RaidtheWarehouse to enter to win $100 of Gilt credit.

Friday, April 19th, 5:00-12:00 AM
Including Gilt.com's Women's & Men's fashion and accessories, Kid's clothing and accessories, as well as Home Goods - up to 90% off
Ticketed Shopping Event with:

Complementary Refreshments provided by Coco Cafe
Onsite bar sponsored by La Marca Prosecco and also featuring Whitehaven Wine and New Amsterdam Vodka with Vita Coco Coconut Water
Snacks and dipping station provided by Pretzel Crisps
$20 Uber gift card for new users to fashionably get you to the hottest events of the season
Photo kiosk provided by SMART Pics
Music by live DJ

Past sales event!

Images via Gilt City

Will you be there?

***Edit- The address has changed from 3200 Scotts Lane to 3500 Scotts Lane Philadelphia, PA, 19129

Ombre Denim

2013-04-11T17:49:00.001-04:00

Photos by Melissa Alam

Wearing denim is a trend that will absolutely never die out. It's casual, easy going, versatile, ageless, the list can go on forever! Although, wearing the same old blue jeans might get a little boring especially to someone like me who loves the diversity and eccentricities of fashion! Those indigo blues have upgraded from tattered and worn to patterned and coated. Denim has evolved to become such a mainstay in the fashion industry and I'm totally loving it!

Wearing denim on denim is a fun and fashionable move, the variations on how to wear it are endless! As soon as I found this ombre denim top, I knew it would look amazing paired with one of my favorite Spring staples, white jeans.

Top: Forever21, jeans: Free People, cardigan: Buffalo Exchange, belt: Club Monaco, sneakers: Steve Madden, earrings & headband: Urban Outfitters

This Spring I definitely want to incorporate more denim on denim combinations into my daily ensembles. It's effortless and yet still very put together! Dear readers, how do you like to wear your denim pieces?

It Girls, Tees to Live In

2013-04-10T14:57:00.001-04:00

By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

The time has come to strip off those heavy, wintery layers! Put away the wool and cashmere outerwear pieces and soak up some sun in your favorite tee shirts! Tee shirts are the perfect essentials for any warm weather occasion, they're perfect for days when you have to get dressed up and great for the days when you just have errands to do and need to be comfortable! Tee shirts are the perfect components to look effortlessly cool. Check out my favorite tee shirt styles!

The photographic tee shirt is a great and fun choice. It also reminds you of that place where you want to be, in this case somewhere warm and beautiful with palm trees! Paired with a leather jacket and leather pants, makes for a great evening look and a conversation starter.

The band tees, many of us have tons of band shirts in our closets! If you're like me, then you've collected shirts from all of the shows you've ever been too! I'm a big music buff, I listen to a lot of not so mainstream musicians which my tees clearly represent and because of that, stir lots of fun conversations. Plus band tee shirts have the best graphics and designs!

The slouchy, slub, v neck tee, one of my favorite styles. It 's one of the most versatile tee shirt styles, looks amazing paired with a blazer and pencil skirt and still manages to look great in a pair of jeans! Most would prefer to wear this style in a more weekend appropriate ensemble, but I actually like to don the more professional or dressed up scenario approach. It's all about keeping cool in the warmer months!

The fancy tee shirt, everyone needs one! This one in particular has a mesh material for sleeves and on the sides, making it a very sexy and interesting shirt. The fancy tees are the perfect blend of sporty and feminine. Every fashionista needs a shirt with a cool flair!

Dear readers what tee shirt style do you claim as a favorite? How do you prefer to wear a tee, casually or dressed up?

Floral Persuasion

2013-04-06T11:13:00.001-04:00

Photos by Melissa Alam

You would never think that at one point in my life, I loathed floral patterns! I was very much a "tomboy" growing up, you wouldn't catch me dead in a flower print! Time has changed and I have welcomed the florals into my life. Nowadays, I cannot take off this fantastic Spring print, all thanks to my first Philadelphia Flower Show a few years ago. Change is good! Although, I did manage to channel my tomboy phase with the parka jacket over the dress. It was my way of making this very feminine silhouette into something very edgy!

Dress: Club Monaco, jacket: H&M(Similar), belt: Forever21, socks: American Apparel, pumps: Schutz, rings: Aoki, gifted, sunnies: Firmoo

Definitely going to see a lot more of the floral persuasion from me this season! Dear readers, how do you feel about floral prints, you love them or hate them?

So Fresh and So Clean Can Be Bad?

2013-04-03T20:06:00.001-04:00

By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

If you're like me, then you love to keep yourself fresh! I'm all about smelling like roses, fresh citrus fruits, and feeling like a smooth baby's bum! I love to shower and keep myself extra clean, but did you know that showering daily is bad for our bodies?! In an article I read at Refinery29, it stated that soaps and hot water can strip our skin of it's essential oils that can result in overly dried, cracked skin and even infection! I've heard that showering too much can be bad, but I never really considered it until the article. I cannot help that I love to shower and make myself feel so fresh and so clean but I definitely want my skin to keep it's elasticity and be able to protect itself

I've made a list of initiatives that I'm going to take to avoid dry skin and feeling dirty...

- Take cooler showers. Hot water can be stripping and can make our skin's natural defenses weaken.

-Wash with a non sulfate containing soap. So far i'm loving the body gels from Lush!

-Use jojoba oil more often in place of lotion. Jojoba is actually an oil that is very similar to the natural oils and sebum that our bodies produce making it the perfect body oil!

-Wear more updos! As with the skin on our bodies, our scalps need their natural oils too, plus dirty hair holds more styles easily.

-Use my cleansing wipes more often. For those busy days, when we're constantly on the go, cleansing wipes are a smart idea to get rid of any residual sweat. The Body Shop's cleansing wipes are a good alternative to soap and water and leave you smelling quite fresh!

-Take shorter showers, my usual is 20 minutes, but if I can cut it down to 10 then I'm on track to beautiful skin!

-Tap skin dry, rather than rub skin dry with the towel, the mixture of water and lotion can maximize the moisture on our skin.

I'm all about good personal hygiene but now I know that my daily routine can be detrimental to my health. I will be making sure from now on to work on being better about taking care of my body. Dear readers, what is your personal hygiene routine like? Is it coinciding with your health?

Tastemakers, Brandon Boyd of Incubus

2013-04-01T12:35:00.000-04:00

by Jacqueline Davis Moranti

Growing up with a sibling of the opposite gender, you tend to assimilate to things that they like. Video games, sports and a good portion of my music choices from the 90's I attribute from influences of my brother. Which is exactly how I discovered one of my favorite rock bands, Incubus! One afternoon, I heard my brother playing a beautiful song on his guitar and I asked if it was one if his creations and he told me no, it was a guitar riff from an Incubus song. I immediately searched the band afterwards and it was love at first listen! Every album is a gem and and you can hear the growth and transition from the first album all the way to the latest album, which can also be translated to the lead vocalist of the band, Brandon Boyd. One can clearly see the transformation and maturity that Boyd has developed in his wardrobe choices. From oversized pants to fitted slacks, baggy t shirts to slim fitting button ups. Let me tell you readers, Brandon Boyd cleans up well!

^ Left to right, early 90's to now ^

Photos via Google Search

Another thing very fascinating about Brandon Boyd is that he is a visual artist. He designs most of his band's merchandise and album covers. Such a true Tastemaker, to be able to express his vision in multiple outlooks! He has grown up from his punk rocker days to become a stunning well dressed man, but still add his edginess to his new sharp looks. I love his work and can't wait to see what the future will unfold for him and Incubus!

Links à la Mode: March 28th

2013-03-28T18:56:00.001-04:00

Hey readers, I did it again! I was featured on this week's roundup from IFB (Independent Fashion Bloggers), with 19 other great bloggers! Check it out!

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The Beautiful Abyss

Beauty is only skin deep, beauty comes from within. From actually taking care of your skin to being comfortable in your own skin, this is where style starts. We've had a lot of thoughtful entries this week, and I loved reading the posts. Breaking style rules, mixing punk and modesty, and a full on deconstruction of cats on the internet and fashion (my two favorite things). Anyway, before I digress, you'll get lost in a world commentary so perhaps you'll digress into the abyss as well.

Links à la Mode: The IFB Weekly Roundup March 28th

33 Avenue Miquelon: Whose Stats Should You Use for Your Media Kit?
Burgundy Whispers: Beauty Begins Skin Deep!
Emphatically Elle: DIY Cat-Face Flats
Fashion Moriarty: Recurring Images: Flowers
Informed Style: Fashion Art: Arm Party?
Les Contemplatrices: Paris StreetStyle: Tradition vs. Personal style
Look Sharp, Sconnie: Fashion "Rules": I Nag My Favorite Bloggers
Narcissista.me:My Stripper Shoe Makeover
Pittsburgh in Polka Dots: 7 Ways to Wear a Shirtdress
Polka Dotted Pearl: Spring colours for 2013: nail polish
Pretty Cripple: My scratchpost: On the Hot Tin Catwalk
Real Girl Glam: Quick Tips for Easy layering
Rose and Pine: The Bold Black and White Trend for Under $80!
Searching for Style: Fashion 101: How to Network Successfully
The Penny Rose: Creating a Fashion Catalog
The Fashionable Wife: How To: Mix Prints
The Mirror on the Wall: The Debate on Fur
The Photogramps: Beauty Tip: Learning to Love
Under a Veil: Key Item: The Biker Jacket
Wings for Liberty: Makeup review: Sephora’s liquid eyeliner

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I Dream of... Lulu Frost Jewelry

2013-03-27T10:34:00.003-04:00

I Dream of Lulu Frost by Jacqueline Davis Moranti

I'm sure most of you have dreamt about owning that one piece of jewelry that would blow all of your other pieces to shame! The statement among statement necklaces, the one of kind bangle, the show-stopper earrings. I'm talking about Lulu Frost Jewelry! I discovered this jewelry line a few months ago while I was perusing the new merchandise at my local J. Crew store. Ahhh, what a beautiful discovery it was, I've been lusting over Lisa Salzer's [Jewelry designer] gorgeous work ever since! Lulu Frost has collaborated with J. Crew and the Loft. Miss Salzer truly knows her craft!

The entire collection is created by hand, so don't worry about having the same necklace as the next person because not one is truly the same! The inspiration is drawn from "classic" references, but that is an understatement to say the least, because they have a really unique and contemporary spin!

Here are some of the pieces i'm currently dreaming of!

Images from Shopbop and LuluFrost

Dear readers, what do you think of Lulu Frost jewelry? Are you craving a piece or two like I am?!

Beauty Bit, Skincare

2013-03-25T15:00:00.001-04:00

By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

Ever since I was a young adolescent, my mother always told me the importance of not skimping on a good skincare routine, and of course, to always eat my vegetables! Mother always prided herself on taking really good care of her skin, mostly because she's too afraid to go under the knife for any obscene procedure, but it's a tip that i've kept up with most of my life. I believe that good skincare reflects good health care, which is why i'm so adamant about it. I get complimented on my complexion all the time, and now I'll fill you in on my favorite products that I swear by!

I want to start off with one of my tried and true products pure, unrefined, shea butter. Most of you may have heard of cocoa butter but this butter is far more moisturizing with some elements of natural sunscreen protection. It also doubles as an oil for hair. You never have to worry about having dry skin with some shea butter around, I like to use this on my face as a moisturizer, but never too sparingly or you will feel very oily! I've been using this [shea butter] for years and it's really inexpensive, a 16 ounce tub for only $5. It's a definite yes!

Next product I've been using for years, is Bragg's apple cider vinegar. It's one of those wonderful products with multiple uses such as a facial toner, hair rinse, energizing and weight loss supplement. It's simply remarkable! If I ever feel a breakout about to happen, I swipe some ACV on a cotton ball and apply it to the area, and the next day it's significantly smaller to gone!

The next product I absolutely love, it's the Aztec Secret Healing Clay. It claims to be "The World's Most Powerful Facial!" and it really lives up to it. This product gets deep inside your pores like none other! I like to use it once a month because of how strong it is and it's another product that I like to use in my hair too. Seriously, if you have any sort of facial problems, this will wipe it away and you will notice yourself reaching less and less for that tube of concealer!

"Beauty starts from the inside, out," something that my mother always tells me, which is why I take my vitamins religiously! Also, since I am a vegetarian I need to insure myself with all of the nutrients i'm not getting from all the foods I don't eat. This multivitamin by Nature's Way is amazing, it contains everything a woman needs in a supplement, and it does not make my skin break out. I've taken others in the past that always gave me bad pimples, not a good look! Another thing to note about this vitamin is that it's a natural energy enhancer, always a plus when I don't need to reach for coffee!

As a great night time cream and eye cream replacement, I like to use Bio-oil. Like the shea butter, this product also leaves my skin feeling like a baby's bum and I love it! It helps with uneven skin toning, scars and anti- aging. All in all, fantastic!

The best way that i've found to achieve the healthy, dewy skin look is by using the Melvita Rose Water. Just a few sprays on top of your moisturizer and your set for the day. I was introduced to this product through a Birchbox sample and it's been a match made in heaven! It also feels like a refreshing skin drink that smells like roses!

There you have it, all of the products that attribute to my skincare routine. I like to be able to walk around with out makeup when ever I feel like it. It's very liberating when you don't feel constrained to your tube of concealer or tinted moisturizer! These are product I definitely can't live without! Good thing they're all relatively cheap! Dear readers, have you used any of these products? what are your favorite skincare needs?

Tee Time

2013-03-22T11:24:00.002-04:00

Jacket & socks: Club Monaco, tee & wedges C/O: Free People, skirt: Forever21, accessories: Jewelmint, Forever21, gifted

One of the most essential pieces of anyone's wardrobe, is the tee shirt! Tees are so versatile, any color, any shape and it still manages to go with most of your wardrobe. Whether the tee is fitted, relaxed, or oversized, it can create an effortless, yet put together look. How you wear your tee depends on your style, trust me you'll never look sloppy!

This oversized t shirt from Free People is the perfect equivalent to relaxed and carefree. Alas, because of it's oversized nature, it can be paired with literally anything, jeans, skirts and also as bikini coverups. Imagine it thrown on top of a fitted dress, with one side knotted, oh the possibilities!

As versatile as the tee, these platform shoes are majorly comfortable. This is the wedge that won't let your feet give in with pain. I could definitely see myself wearing this to a summer concert and dance the night away!

Tee shirts can do no wrong! No matter how you wear it, you will look fabulous and be comfortable too. Dear readers, what is your favorite way to wear a tee? What style of tee do you prefer?

Have You Heard?

2013-03-21T15:14:00.001-04:00

By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

Hey readers, have you heard that Google reader, it's RSS feed server is going extinct after July 1st?! Google Reader is the best way to get your news and your gossip with a simple push of a button. Many say that's why it's being taken down because it's feeding people with news faster than the journalists can deliver it to you, and among other things.

This news saddens me because it was the easiest way for me to get access to many blogs and subscribe to them. To all my readers and all of you who are interested in me and what I do, I suggest you follow my Bloglovin' to keep up with what I get into next! And now to get used to Bloglovin'....

The Spring Edit

2013-03-20T00:34:00.001-04:00

As we all know, Spring is right around the corner, literally! It's time to clean out the closet of wools and cashmeres, jewel tones and suede booties, overcoats and chunky scarves. This spring is all about the bold prints, geometric colors, and versatile spring jackets. With all of this in mind, I edited my wintery wardrobe to a more spring transitioning wardrobe. I did not realize I had so many sweaters to fold away! Let me show you how I organized my closet!

One of my favorite subjects, shoes! I keep most of my shoes on a tilted shelf system. The image on the left is of my main shoes, the ones that i'm currently gravitating towards. The top row consists of all my spring sandals that I can't wait to start wearing, without socks and tights! The middle row is what I like to consider my transitional pieces, the booties. The bottom row consists of my favorite black shoes that go with everything. The image on the right is where I keep my pumps. They hang on a rail system, on a wall. I try to keep it very color coordinated and "springy"

Spring bottoms, I made sure to put away the wool trousers, scuba knit leggings and double knit pencil skirts. They were replaced with bright jeans, twills, linens, floral and silk skirts. With my jeans, since they are a heavier fabric, I like to fold them rather than hang, trust me i've tried it the other way and have the broken hangers to prove it! Plus it leaves less of a clutter with the jeans folded and now I can see the colors and fits a lot more easily. The trousers and slacks are all hung, in the best way that I could color code them! The skirts I keep hung, that way I don't have to iron out too many wrinkles.

And then there was everything else, from the left, jackets/ blazers, dresses, and blouses. I've replaced all of the thick knits, wool sweaters and heavy silks for much lighter and airier fabrics. This section still needs some work, i've left in a few items that I consider great winter-to-spring transitional pieces like quilted blazers and lightweight cashmere sweaters. Also, I made sure to do away with the winter accessories like scarves, gloves and hats. Won't be needing those for another 8 months, but for now i've replaced them with silk and linen scarves, straw hats and the occasional beanie.

As you can see, I like to keep myself organized. Hopefully this has helped you become a little more organized too so you can build your ensembles easily. I'm super excited for the warm weather that awaits! This spring cleaning just made me more anxious for shorts and sandals. Dear readers, have you started to edit your wardrobe? What's the most important tip to iterate to others about their wardrobe edits?