Fabulous BELLA

Deen + Gray: A Sneak Peak of New Items and colors...

2011-10-25T01:51:00.000-07:00

DEEN + GRAY

WWW.DEENANDGRAY.COM

Add Deen + Gray on Facebook and Twitter:

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New from Deen + Gray

2011-09-21T22:32:00.000-07:00

Bows & Baubles $15

Stones & Skulls $25 for a set of 2

Embellished Wood Bracelets $10 each

On Trend: Color Blocking, Garcelle Beauvais

2011-08-14T23:23:00.000-07:00

(Photo: People Style Watch)

Garcelle Beauvais was spotted at the premier of "The Help" in Los Angeles in this bright ensemble which to me, is the epitome of color-blocking. I personally LOVE the pairing of bright yellow with bright cobalt blue and I think it looks amazing against her skin. However I'm not sure I would have gone with that necklace. What do you think? Would you wear this look?

Arm Candy

2011-08-03T01:46:00.000-07:00

3 pack Bracelets, H&M (in stores)

Neon Spun Cuff, ASOS

Set of 3 Bangles, Winifred Grace

Threaded Bangle Set, Amrita Singh

Spifster

2011-06-05T23:40:00.000-07:00

I was on twitter this evening when someone retweeted Spifster Sutton. Spifter, as I quickly discovered is the super fabulous creative designer behind Spifster Nails of Chicago. I literally GASPED when I saw her designs...they are that dope. I checked out her StyleSeat profile and her prices are very reasonable. The Simple Spif (1-2 designs per hand), starts at $15.

I'm ever in Chicago I HAVE to get a nail design from Spifster.

Check her out:
tumblr . Facebook Fan Page . StyleSeat: Online Booking

Sweet Salone (Sierra Leone)

2011-04-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

Today is the 50th Anniversary of Sierra Leone's Independence. I am the proud daughter of a strong and beautiful Sierra Leonean woman and I couldn't be happier to reflect and celebrate today. Sierra Leone won it's independence in 1961, after more than 150 years of British colonial rule. At the stroke of midnight on April 27, 1961 an enormous crowd took in this historical moment in Freetown watching the beautiful green, white and blue flag being unfurled.

Many of you may not know much about Sierra Leone, if anything at all. And what I've discovered over the years is that most know more about the country's painful past than about the beautiful people and country itself.

Yes Sierra Leone is still rebuilding from a devastating civil war that ended nearly 10 years ago, but I think it's important to remember the past while looking forward to the future and enjoying the beauty of the present. I visited Sierra Leone in 1996 and I stayed an amazing 2 months. I'll never forget that experience and I long for the day to go back. Sierra Leone has SO much beauty to enjoy and I'd like to share some of it with you all. P.S. I'll update with more photos later :)

This photo of Sierra Leone is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Teal, Raffia, Espresso & Batik

2011-04-27T02:00:00.000-07:00

Untitled by fabulousbella featuring high heels

I believe beautiful shoes should inspire. Now, I know that probably sounds shallow to some, so let me clarify...I believe great shoes should inspire one's wardrobe choices. No outfit is complete without them and sometimes we build an entire outfit around a really hot pair.

If you can't tell by this post...then let me tell you...I LOVE wedges. I really do. They are probably my favorite type of heel. As soon as the sun comes out, even if only for a peek, I’m painting my toes and slipping on a pair. I think they appeal to me because while appearing to be sky high and uncomfortable, they are in fact, sexy without the pain of stilettos.

For spring and summer I imagine pairing these lovely foot-adornments with seasonal staples; bright white blouses, layered chiffon skirts, colorful tops, cut-off shorts (DIY! It's cheaper!), linen pants, high-waisted flared jeans, layered maxi skirts and dresses galore! I can go on and on. What would you pair them with? The possibilities are endless.

Vintage Inspired Beauty

2011-03-22T23:22:00.000-07:00

Vintage Inspired Beauty (Essence May 1970) by fabulousbella on Polyvore.com

With bright lips and 70's style everywhere this spring, it was quite interesting to stumble across Essence's May 1970 cover a few months back while surfing the web. I LOVE this cover because while very vintage, it's also a very current beauty look, and one that I have been wearing quite often as of late. The fiery red-orange lip and flared lashes are my favorite way to brighten my appearance and outlook on a fickle weather, Bay Area spring day. To achieve a modern take on this look I use Cargo Liquid Foundation in #90 for a natural finish and a touch of powder to set. Next I lightly apply Nars Exhibit A blush (a little goes a LONG way!), add mascara, 100% Pure Black Tea is my latest fave and lashes. A half lash strip for the demure and full lash for the daring. Lip balm and a touch of Nars Heat Wave to finish the look.

Oh, and while we're on bright fiery red-orange, I am loving this color for nails! I recently purchased Essie Clambake which is so accurately described as a creamy red-orange. It's beautiful against my skin and I find myself wanting to wear it all the time! It's the perfect bright nail color.

So tell me ladies (and gents), what brights will you be trying this season?

Glove Lovin ♥

2010-12-11T19:36:00.000-08:00

Glove Love by fabulousbella on Polyvore.com

1.Women's Merona Suede Button Glove in Brown, $15
2. Women's Merona,Long Ruched Glove in Pewter, $15
3. Mossimo, $23

This weekend I decided that I've had it with cold hands, so I went to Target to check out their super inexpensive, super cute leather gloves. I love leather gloves, more so than knit ones because you can dress them up or down and they seem to be much warmer. I chose three pairs in brown, metallic, and black that I am completely happy with and I didn't have to break the bank...I paid about $50 for all three! I may end up giving these as a gift and buying a few more for myself. Hopefully I can find more in the store because when I was looking online #2 & #3 are sold out. :(

Boyfriend Blazers & Hella Shoes!

2010-12-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Boyfriend Blazer is a great piece that can be worn to compete any outfit and it's on sale for $49, originally $78. It's available in Black, Grey, White and Camel.

Nasty Gal

Nasty Gal's Hella Shoes! sale, buy one pair get another 40% off! Hella great shoe styles to choose from, there is pretty much something for everyone. Oh and don't forget to also check out Nasty Gal's Serious Sale as well.

Hayword Platform Pump - Ruby
Norwick Chain Boot

Thanks Always, Deen + Gray.

2010-12-06T22:00:00.000-08:00

Deen + Gray has been spotted in a few places lately thanks to some friends and lovers of the brand. It's great to know that there are people who believe in Deen + Gray as much as I do and I'm truly thankful for the support. ♥

December 1, 2010

Dylana Suarez
Nana in Wonderland

Nana in Wonderland is an influential Fashion Blog eloquently written by Dylana Suarez, a Southern California girl with a great eye for style. Dylana's style is timeless, classically feminine yet Edgy and modern. But it's her talent for writing and beautiful imagery that sets her blog apart. Reading Nana in Wonderland is an experience that anyone who loves fashion and good writing, regardless of personal style would enjoy. Check out Nana in Wonderland and see her blog post Rustification featuring Deen + Gray here.

November 26, 2010

Jayel Stokes

JStokes 1.5 EP

Jayel Stokes or J Stokes as she is also known is a talented singer, writer and violinist from Detroit Michigan. When I say this woman is talented, I really mean she is TALENTED, not only musically but academically as well. J Stokes has managed to actively pursue her musical talents, writing music, and performing all while completing her B.S. of Animal Science at Purdue in 2006 and going on to pursue her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University. This dynamic artist is truly a Fabulous Bella. Check out her latest music here and download it today.

October 25, 2010

The Fashion Spot

Look Of the Moment: Chunky Knitted Scarf

October 4, 2010
Ooh La La Blog
Designer Showcase: Kadé Stuart Presents Deen + Gray

Ooh La La Blog is an up and coming fashion and entertainment blog authored by the ever stylish Jamiese Price (Pretty Price) and Kenneth Crump (K. Crump) which caters to anyone who is interested in keeping up with the latest style tips, newest and hottest designers, and the fabulously chic in entertainment. I did a interview for Deen + Gray in October and you can check it out here.

August 2010
No4Corners: Style

No4Corners is a Blogazine which dedicates it's self to showcasing current as well as up-coming artists in the Style, Music, and Art world. Check out their blog here and to keep up with the latest in style, music and art add them on facebook.

Thanks Always. ♥

Holiday Deals: A Gift From Dooney & Bourke

2010-12-06T21:30:00.000-08:00

Spend $250 on dooney.com and receive a cashmere Infinity Scarf ($85 value) as a gift with your purchase. Enter promo code VOG2for1 to take advantage of this sweet promotion and you can keep this stylish scarf for yourself or give it as a great gift this holiday season.

Shop today at Dooney and DON'T forget to check out The 12 Days of Dooney where every day is a surprise deal. Now through December 17th.

The Shoe on the Back of the Milkbox

2010-11-29T12:00:00.000-08:00

Sam Edelman Nivan T-straps

Antique Gold Size 11

I stumbled across these shoes while looking for the Novato Black Glitter pair online and instantly fell in love. Completely forgetting about the black glitter pair that I once lusted over, I begun searching for them in a size 11 and just when I thought I found them at Zappos.com, I sadly discovered that they were no longer available. In most shoes I wear a size 10, but in some heels, depending on the width of the toe and other factors, a size 11 is the "safe" choice, especially when ordering online. There is also the option of ordering the style in suede (black, nude, or grey) all of which are fabulous choices but sometimes you just want what you want. I considered ordering a size 10, but I don't want to go through the trouble of ordering the shoes with the hope that they will fit, only to suffer disappointment, when I have to send them back. Slightly defeated, but still hopeful, I requested to be informed immediately upon the return of these beautiful pair of 5in platform heels. Now, all I can do is hope to one day soon receive that email. But if not, perhaps some other "beacon of light" store will soon have them and I can live happily ever after, having found the latest shoe of my dreams.

What do you say Ladies and Gents? Should I wait to see if these will be available in size 11 one day or try ordering them in a 10 and hope for the best?

Deen + Gray Black Friday Weekend Special

2010-11-25T20:00:00.000-08:00

Black Friday Weekend Special

All items 20% off & free shipping on orders over $100

November 26th-November28th only!

http://www.deenandgray.com/

(use code blackfri20 for discount)

Discount and shipping reflect during checkout.

Over-sized Cowl Scarf

Ridiculously Long Scarf

Fringe Trimmed Scarf

2010-11-19T21:30:00.000-08:00

Black + Gold: Night On The Town by fabulousbella

KENNY - Lace combo blouson top
$187 - farfetch.com
Black tops »

Black Tank Top Sarina
45 EUR - veryeickhoff.com
Black tank »

Classic investment coat
299 GBP - karenmillen.com
Trench coat »

Women's Merona
$14 - target.com

leather look leggings
$128 - usa.frenchconnection.com
Leather leggings »

Steve Madden 'Caryssa' Pump
$60 - nordstrom.com
Steve madden pumps »

Franchi Handbags Judi Silk Clutch Black - Zappos.com Free Shipping...
$168 - zappos.com
Black handbag »

Armitron Women's 75-3611BKGP Diamond Collection Watch
$45 - endless.com
Armitron watches »

Magicicada Earrings
$30 - modcloth.com
Leaf earrings »

Dior Miniaudiere Eyeshadow and Lip Gloss Palette Pink Golds 002
$80 - sephora.com

B de Boucheron Eau de Parfum/3.3 oz.
$155 - saksfifthavenue.com

Deborah Lippmann Bad Romance Nail Color
$18 - barneys.com

Deen + Gray — Fringe Trimmed Scarf
deenandgray.com
Scarves »

Sparkle in a Sequin Dress!

2010-11-18T23:30:00.000-08:00

Carey Mulligan in a Chanel Couture Dress with Embroidered Sequins.

Holiday season is fast approaching and now is the time to plan your holiday party outfits. How do you add a little holiday sparkle to your night without wearing a Christmas sweater? Wear a sequined dress! Sequins when done right are elegant and fun, totally appropriate for this festive season. Choose a sequin dress that is well made to avoid looking cheap. To avoid looking too flashy try pairing your dress with understated accessories, this way your dress will be the standout piece.

All eyes will be on you as you turn heads in this a sequin Alice + Olivia dress ($365). Complete the look with simple accessories, tights, suede pumps and a beautiful coat or chic blazer.

Alice + Olivia Sequined mesh tube dress, $365
Wuthering Delights Coat, $180
Anna Sui 80 Denier Solid Microfiber Tights at Zappos.com, $24
Pour La Victoire Irina, $222
Zoe Adams 25193, $84
Opaque Oval Ring, 13 GBP
Badgley Mischka Bow Watch, $150
Charlize's 0.75 Ct Genuine 14K Gold Square Bezel Stud Earrings, $32
Kevyn Aucoin The Elegant Lip Gloss - Hannabelle, $27
LE VERNIS KHAKI BRUN - Nails - Chanel Makeup

Dazzle in a Gold sequin adorned dress like this ModCloth piece($90). Keep accessories interesting but understated so they don't compete with your dress. Makeup should be simple but don't be afraid to accentuate your eyes with a little drama.

Gold Dust Gal Dress, $90
Exception to the Rule Coat, $80
Steve Madden Women's Darrina Platform Pump, $74
kate spade new york round earrings, $55
Bobbi Brown 'Sultry' Eye Palette, $45
SEPHORA by OPI Going Nude, Eh? Nail Colour, $9
Henri Bendel Sueded Croc Pearl Debutante Slim Asymmetric, $175

Turn a sequin tank dress like this Arden B. piece ($79) into a chic outfit by pairing it with black tights, a tuxedo style blazer and striking black suede pumps. Add a few accessories, a little makeup and out the door you go!

Racerback Leopard Sequin Tunic - Women's Clothing and Apparel - Chic..., $79
Black Tuxedo Jacket, 50 GBP
AE Women's Pointelle Tights (Black), $13
Steve Madden Caryssa, $89
ASOS Patent Frame Clutch, $34
Basic Wrap Watch, $34
Filigree Disc Earrings, $14
ASOS Vintage Style Intricately Engraved Bow Ring, $10
Trish McEvoy Beauty Emergency Card for Eyes, $38
NYX Sheer Tube Lip Gloss Rose Ulta.com - Cosmetics, Fragrance, Salon..., $5.99
HiP High Intensity Pigments - Color Truth Cream Eyeliner

So tell me Fabulous Bellas, how would you style a sequin dress?

Fabulous Bella's Top 5 Favorite Fragrances

2010-11-11T23:23:00.000-08:00

Fabulous Bella's Top 5 Favorite Fragrances by fabulousbella featuring monsoon hair accessories

1.Prada Infusion d'iris Eau du Parfum is a classic scent with hints of Iris, Neroli, Mandarin and Orange Blossom. This soft floral fragrance is the epitome of femininity and elegance with a delectable hint of fresh citrus. This is my signature fragrance when I want to smell as beautiful as I feel, and it never disappoints!

2. Miss Dior Cherie Eau du Parfum. I have been lusting over this fragrance for months, and received it recently as a birthday gift (thanks Lisa!) With captivating hints of Jasmine, green tangerine and patchouli with a subtle sweet element of strawberry leaves and carmelized popcorn, this fragrance is elegant and fun!

3. Armani, Acqua di Gioa Eau du Parfum is a clean scent with elements of Mint, Brown Sugar, Lemon, Jasmine, Peony, Pink Pepper, and Cedar Wood. This scent is fresh and floral with subtle spice. This new scent by Giorgio Armani is on my list of fragrances to buy not just because I LOVE it but because it’s also a head turner, wear this fragrance before you leave the house and EVERYONE will want to know what you’re wearing!

4. Ralph Lauren Romance Eau du Parfum. Classic, timeless, and elegant are just three words to describe this fragrance. I've been in love with Ralph Lauren Romance since before I understood what the word romance truly meant and now as I have matured so has my appreciation for the elegance of this fragrance. This sensual fragrance has notes of Sungoddess Rose, Marigold, Ginger, Chamomile Oil, Yellow Freesia, White Violet, Lotus Flower, Day Lily, Patchouli, Oakmoss, and Musk.

5. B de Boucheron Eau du Parfum is another fragrance I’m currently lusting over. Created by the House of Boucheron, French Jewelers known for exceptional pieces of high end jewelry, it is by far the most expensive on the list. This fragrance is a classic woody floral with notes of Rose, Orange Blossom, Patchouli, Spices, Osmanthus, Sandalwood and Cedar that is not strong or over powering. Simply put, B de Boucheron is subtle yet elegant and timeless scent.

Now tell me, what are your favorite scents?

Everyday Dewy Skin

2010-11-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

Dewy skin isn’t just for the summer! In fact, healthy looking, dewy skin is something that most women strive to maintain year round, and why not? Who doesn’t appreciate a healthy glow? Here are a few tips to achieve everyday dewy skin.

Everyday Dewy Skin by fabulousbella on Polyvore.com

Click on the above link to view the items in this set.

Step 1: Prep Skin
Starting with healthy regularly exfoliated skin, cleanse face according to skin type and pat dry. Use a toner or facial mist like H20 oasis Facial Mist, for added hydration, allow to absorb and use an emollient but non-greasy moisturizer. Next apply a super moisturizing lip balm like Jack Black’s Intense Therapy Lip Balm, allow to absorb for a minute then use a soft wet face cloth to buff away any dry skin. Reapply balm. The previous step may seem like a trivial to list but it‘s so important! Dry lips ALWAYS ruin your look.

Step 2: Perfect Complexion
In small amounts, a small amount of moisturizer with a small amount of foundation (I choose Make Up For Ever’s HD foundation because I love it's natural flawless finish). Spritz your MAC 187 stippling brush with your facial mist and use to buff on foundation for a light airbrushed finish. Tap a tiny amount of a concealer under eyes and wherever needed.

*Optional Step: Use a foundation brush to blend a small amount of a liquid highlighter like Laura Geller's Liquid Candle Light Highlighter onto your cheekbones. It can also be mixed into your moisturizer for an all over glow before applying foundation, but be careful...you want to look dewy NOT shiny.

Step 3: Finish
Blot your T-zone with a tissue to prevent shine and using a fluffy powder brush, dust a sheer pressed powder like MAC's Select Sheer across your forehead, down your nose and under the eyes to set concealer. Finish with a bronzing powder like Model CO Glow Summer Bronze(for darker skin tones like me this is actually a highlighter) or highlighting powder like NARS or Vincent Longo’s highlighting powders for fairer skin, strategically placed. Lastly use your facial mist to set makeup.

Complete the look with your favorite Mascara and lip color. You can also add eyeliner, brow powder and blush for more definition.

Keep in mind that this is just a basic dewy everyday look that you can customize for your own skin type using your favorite products.

One Dress Two Ways

2010-11-08T00:10:00.001-08:00

One Dress Two Ways by fabulousbella featuring vintage shoes

ModCloth's Simply Radiant Dress is a modern vintage styled dress with the perfect feminine flair, so cute you'll want to wear it twice! The key to having a great wardrobe is not necessarily having many pieces but knowing how to style few pieces well. Shoes, handbags, jacket's and accessories make it easy to wear your favorite clothing items more and look different each time.

Items in this set are from Mod Cloth, Target & Nasty Gal, for more details, click on the set.

Add Flair To Your Space

2010-10-11T13:45:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been in the mood to redecorate. I don't know if it's the change in seasons or the fact that I'm going through so much positive transition lately, but I'm sensing the need to change things up a bit. I don't want to do an extreme re-vamping of my space but rather find a few beautiful and interesting pieces that can be easily incorporated to add flair.

Take a look at some of the unique pieces I came across:

Original Paintings by EarthArt

Gilded-Grasscloth Pillow Cover, West Elm $39

Green Patchwork UnMusic Box, N utmeg Designs $45

Chunky Tassel Throw, West Elm, $69

Dreamland Pillow Collection, AphroChic $90-$175

Passion Flower Print, photographik $35

Tiled Capiz Wall Mirror, West Elm, $199

What do you think of my choices?

Which of these pieces could you use to liven up your bedroom or living room?

Fabulous Bellas Shop Locally: Heritage Row, San Francisco, CA

2010-09-30T23:20:00.000-07:00

Heritage Row is a new boutique which opened recently in San Francisco's Marina District on trendy Chestnut Street. When I think of Chestnut Street, I am reminded of my days working as an Esthetician at Heaven Day Spa on Chestnut & Pierce. Everyday I'd make my morning green tea run to either Starbucks or Peets Coffee and in the afternoon I would eat lunch at one of the local restaurants (and there are a lot of them!) and I couldn't help but notice that almost everyone on Chestnut Street had unique style about them, whether it was a casually chic UCSF student or a mom pushing a twin stroller/balancing her coffee AND dressed to-the-nines...it seemed as if everyone had aura of chic. When visiting this new Bay Area shop, you can expect to find that same aura of chic. Heritage Row is a place where you will find the most coveted styles of clothing and accessories with out breaking the bank!

Zodiac Panda Leather Boots in Chestnut

Vanessa Hudgens Sporting Zodiac Panda Leather Boots

Jack by BB Dakota Romaine Plush Coat is one of Rachel Zoe's Picks for Piperlime and will be available at Heritage Row starting next week! Retail price: $70. Call to 415-440-5701 to pre-order.

Heritage Row
2176 Chestnut St
(Chestnut & Pierce)
San Francisco, CA 94123
Heritage Row on Facebook

Fall Prints, Patterns & Colors From The Runway To Your Wardrobe

2010-09-20T15:30:00.000-07:00

MILITARY GREEN

Burberry, Ready To Wear, Fall 2010 (Photo: Style.com)

Military Green is one of this seasons staple colors because while it pairs well many of fall's with fall's premier styles, colors and prints, it is bolder than your typical fall neutral, e.g., Khaki, Brown, Camel. Chose from, military inspired pieces, ultra feminine dresses, layering pieces and tops like F orever 21, Satin Smocked Hem Top to flaunt fall's new neutral.

LEOPARD

Dolce & Gabbana, Ready To Wear, Fall 2010. (Photo: Style.com)

From zebra stripes, to cheetah and leopard, animal print is definitely in this season but you can't flip through ANY September issue without noticing that leopard is IT this season! From tops, to accessories, to full print dresses, pants and coats, you almost* can't go wrong with this print. (*unless you wear it from head to toe...but you know better than that!) I attempted to choose just one leopard piece to showcase, but I came across Motel's Leopard Print Flippy Mini Skirt and the Reiss Garland Leopard Print Shirt both from ASOS...so chic I had to post both!

CHOCOLATE BROWN
Ferrgamo, Ready To Wear, Fall 2010. (Photo: Style.com)

Ahhhh, where do I start? Wide-leg trousers, knee-length skirts, chunky scarves and hats, buttery leather pieces, from jackets, to boots, belts and handbags, you can't possibly consider building your fall wardrobe with out a touch of chocolate. I'm loving OrYany's Dual Pocket Shoulder Bag from Urban Outfitters...so rich you can almost taste it.

PLAID PRINT

Louis Vuitton, Ready To Wear, Fall 2010.(Photo: Style.com)

Plaid print made a strong appearance on runways and now in stores this fall you can expect to see plenty of this print. The look is less casual (plaid button up) and more elegant and refined (luxurious plaid dresses, coats, skirts, chic tights and shoes). To add a bit of edge to your look try pairing your plaid pieces with a leather piece like a jacket, thigh-high boots or gloves like this DVF pair or Mossimo by Target's Zipper Trim Gloves .

For those of us who want to experiment with this trend with out too much commitment, accessories like printed tights are a great option. At only $22 each, Hue Printed Plaid Tights are a chic and cheap way to put a little prep in your step.

NAVY

Burberry, Ready To Wear, Fall 2010.Photo: Style.com)

Banana Republic's Silk brushstroke dress is a great navy piece that is as versatile as it is chic, it can be worn by itself or as a layering piece over tights, with boots and a cardigan. Style it conservatively for work or loosen a button and dress it up with fly heels for drinks with the girls.

GRAY

Max Mara, Ready To Wear, Fall 2010. (Photo: Style.com)

Gray is a versatile neutral that can be worn in the place of colors like black, navy and camel or paired with them, it can even be worn with bright pops of color if neutral tones aren't your thing. There is a place for gray in every part of your wardrobe, from casual weekend pieces to work and evening wear. I chose ASOS Premium Ruched Sleeve Drapey Blazer because it is a versatile piece that can be worn casually with jeans or flats or dressed up with a skirt, slacks or heels.

TRUE RED

Givenchy, Ready To Wear, Fall 2010. (Photo: Style.com)

Make a statement by stepping out in a bold red ensemble like Givenchy's pantsuit or take a more subtle approach to this seasons statement color by choosing one bold piece like this over sized ADAM cardigan which makes a great layering piece for the fall.

CAMEL

Hermes , Ready To Wear, Fall 2010. (Photo: Style.com)

To some, camel can be described as fall's quintessential neutral, but to others it's that color that looks good in magazines but is avoided because it can cause them to look washed out. I happen to be one of those people who look good in camel...I love mixing it with brights or other fall colors and I'm always excited to find a new and interesting way to wear it For those of us who have fair skin and tend to shy away from this color, try a healthy dose of bronzer and blush to add a bit of life to your complexion. You can also try to incorporate camel colored layering pieces or accessories such as handbags & shoes. Cute lace-up wedge booties like Steve Madden Annton Wedges can add the perfect touch of camel to any outfit with out the wash out.

OXBLOOD

Dolce & Gabbana, Ready To Wear, Fall 2010.Photo: Style.com)

This deep shade is by far my favorite this season, and to be honest, I've been wearing it all year just because I love it so much. It can be found in various depths and shades with varying amounts of red overtones and brown undertones. I've been wearing this color on my lips and nails mostly but lately I've been craving a luxurious deep bloody red handbag like Topshop's Leather Pushlock Bag.

What colors, prints, patterns and textures will you be wearing this fall?

Whatever you choose, stay fabulous!

Everyday Luxuries: The Foot Spa & Tea Bar in Oakland

2010-09-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

http://www.thefootspateabar.com/

Last week my back was KILLING me…I don’t know if it was stress, lack of sleep or a poor sleeping position but my shoulders were tense and my upper back was sore! So on Saturday, I decided to call around to try and find a place to get a massage after work, but to no avail. Every place I called was either completely booked or closed after I got off of work. I even called a place that had me on hold for over 5 minutes and when I hung up and called back, thinking perhaps they had forgotten I was there, the receptionist answered and put me on hold again immediately. Feeling sore and defeated I decided to go home and head to bed early…I mean, did I REALLY think I’d be able to book a last minute massage on a SATURDAY?

As I was unwinding at home, I decided to make one last attempt and checked yelp. I searched for ‘Oakland Massage’ and stumbled across The Foot Spa and Tea Bar on Grand Avenue. Strange, I thought, I’ve driven past this place countless times and assumed they offered only foot treatments…and tea, which seem nice and all but not exactly what I was looking for at the moment…lol. But since I noticed that they were open until 10pm, I decided to check out their website anyway and was delighted to find that not only did they offer Foot Reflexology, but Acupressure, Sports Massage and Shiatsu as well. Their Introductory packages looked awesome so I decided to treat myself and go for the 120 minute Combo Package which is 60 Minutes Foot Massage + 60 Minutes Body Massage for an introductory price of 80 bucks!!

When I walked into the reception area I immediately noticed how warm and inviting it felt. As I waited, I filled out a quick questionnaire and was offered my choice of freshly brewed tea. Shortly thereafter, my technician greeted me and walked me to my first destination, the foot reflexology room. The layout was interesting, in that we weren’t seated in private areas for this service…like a salon the patrons receiving foot reflexology were sharing the same space but unlike a salon, the room was warm and we had comfy chairs, pillows and blankets to ourselves.

The service began with a foot soak and an upper body massage (neck, shoulders, upper back). After the foot soak my feet were dried off and the massage began. The foot treatment was a combination of pressure point, and massage techniques designed to bring relief to the feet and the entire body utilizing specific points. IT FELT AMAZING…all I know is that at one point, I woke up right before my DROOL hit the blanket…lol. It felt so good and seemed to last for so long that I thought my entire 2hr service was over when the technician gently tapped me to wake up…but alas it was not, it was just beginning.

(there were no roses on my bed...lol)

He gave me slippers to put on and led me upstairs to the private massage area where I got comfortable on the massage table and let him work his magic. The massage was a combination tapotement (tapping & slapping motions), pétrissage(muscle kneading), effleurage (stroking) and pressure point. At times it was extremely relaxing and at other points it was more deep tissue work (slightly painful) and because I had pointed out that I was tense in my shoulders and upper back, he paid special attention to those areas. He ended the service with head and neck pressure point and I couldn’t have been more relaxed.

As I was walking back to the reception area and passed the foot reflexology area I spotted a big guy who looked like he could have been an NBA or NFL player slumped over in his chair. He was nestled under a blanket with a woman going to work on his feet, and looked as if he were in heaven, with a that oh so familiar bit of drool in the corner of his mouth. I just laughed to myself and smiled knowingly.

Dark hair for the fall?

2010-08-28T22:53:00.001-07:00

Two days ago I colored my hair dark mocha brown, using Satin hair color. It's a very rich, warm dark brown with hints of deep red. I decided to dye it because I wanted my ends were really light and I wanted something dark and rich for the fall. I LOVE it! It came out better than I expected. What do you think? Will you be going dark for the fall?

Psst, in case you're wondering, im wearing duo lashes and Nailtini polish in Bordeaux.

Final Shots from Deen + Gray Photoshoot.

2010-02-02T20:31:00.001-08:00

Ridiculously Long Scarf in Blood Orange.

Also available in Black and Taupe.

http://deenandgray.bigcartel.com/

Over-sized Cowl Scarf in Taupe, worn hooded.

Over-sized Cowl Scarf and the Pretty Bow Hat in Taupe.

Fringe Trimmed Scarf in Creme and Pretty Bow Hat.

Pretty Bow Hat. Available in Creme, Taupe and Blood Orange.

Additional colors available upon request.