FASHIONALITIES

One of the lucky few

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:16:00 PST

As many known, Coach creates a minimal amount of pieces for the blogger collabs. First, i missed out in the Cupcake & Cashmere collab and I wasn't going to miss out on this one:) The recent collab with Fashion Foie Gras was genius! It was designed with bloggers in mind. But, I think that it's great for travel and for mommy's. So many little compartments you just have to be organized:) I haven't used the bag yet...it's too large for everyday for me. But, I'll be on a trip next month and you'll see pics of it on the trip. I noticed when I was searching the web that none of the people that nabbed it have shared pictures of them wearing it....I can't wait to share so stay tuned;)

P.s. I got this bag because of persistence. I was searching on eBay, calling Coach customer service everyday and communicating with the lovely designer and the Coach twitter team. I found out about the extra pieces because of the amazing twitter team letting me know there were a few. Can I just say their customer service is amaze!? They honored the 30% off that would have gotten when I tried purchasing the bag online a month ago. Plus, they sent it to me overnight free!!! Best customer service ever!!

WATCH The Victoria, Victoria Beckham Teaser Trailer: EXCLUSIVE VIDEO

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:07:00 PST

Wishing the price point was a little more accessible...maybe she needs to work with Target:) Wonder if she would ever do that...more info about what to expect from Victoria Beckham's new diffusion line from Styleite.

Rose Crush

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:52:00 PST

It's official...I'm addicted to all things rose. At first it was a few rose fragrance products here and there...then, it was rose gold (EVERYTHING) and then, it was rose hued clothing...I'm in deep...so, I figured I'd share all things rose that I love.

Beauty:
I feel like anyone can rock the rose scent. It's a nice light feminine fragrance that nothing can compare with. I use everything from a body oil and rose water (I read somewhere that there is no need to spend big bucks on rose water...it's all the same:) to my new Weleda facial products I've been trying out and LOVE! I found a trial set to test it out for only $14.99, but I'm going to have to invest in the actual full product because I really love it...so, I'm going to go for the cleansing milk (I keep hearing that is the way to wash your face now) and the Weleda Wild Rose Smoothing Facial Lotion.
*Fun DIY I got from the Martha Stewart show: Use roses in hot water for steaming your face. This is good for sensitive skin...but, I think anyone can do it...I know I will:)

Rose Gold:
Can we just say genius? This metal just looks amazing on anyone with tanned skin! I'm getting my second wedding ring this way and can't way...it will take wearing my wedding ring everyday to a whole other level:) I love how Rachel Roy says that mixing metals shows you are daring...makes me feel even more empowered to have it be my wedding ring and mix it with other jewelry I want to wear.
Even though I really do pile on the rose gold...it's just worth it! But, it all started with my rose gold watch...I never even wore watches and I had to have the Michael Kors watch and wear it as a bracelet basically:) It's so funny, because now every brand/designer has a rose gold watch offered...and, now Michael Kors has incorporated the rose gold metal into other jewelry options like rings and bracelets. LOVE!

The clothes:
Sadly, my blazer is from H&M last year...but, in the March 2012 issue of Bazaar on page 72, you can find an assortment of rose tinted items. Stylists tip from Bazaar: "Head-to-toe hues are best in streamlined silhouettes."

I just love how they styled this rose blouse with black pants and a black and animal print jacket...great styling inspiration:

Here are some rose items to check out:

*ASOS Skinny Jeans in Soft Rose, $63

*Gryphon Goa Pullover, $390

*Gap Slim Dolman Top, $25

NuyBeauty: Mixed Kids Curly Hair How to, Care, Style Tips w/ @Fashionalities

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:14:00 PST

I'm excited to share these curly tips for little one's hair and a fab giveaway that I'm doing with one of my favorite beauty sites, Nuy Beauty! I've known Nuy since my days in New York and she's always been the person I turn to with beauty questions. Recently we were chatting about our girls curly hair and what we use to work with it and decided we would do a post to share what we use/do and see what we can learn from our readers.
To win the amazing Brazilian After Dark Blow Dryer, please leave a comment here or on Nuy Beauty sharing what you use for your child's curly hair by next Monday, January 30th. Also follow us on twitter at @nuybeauty and @fashionalities and on facebook www.facebook.com/nuybeauty and www.facebook.com/twitter to get more fun insight on beauty and fashion.
Good luck and I hope you enjoy the video!:)

The product I use on Sahara and my hair:

The LEAF Series: How To Layer Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:30:00 PST

Layering is truly an art...have fun playing with your jewelry this weekend...I know this will help inspire you:)

Some of my fave items from the new selection at Madewell

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:51:00 PST

I love the styling at Madewell and their items too of course! They have an amazing catalog too! Sign up online for it...it's worth it!:)

Stucco Stripe Songbird Dress $128

Two-tone flatstack platform $178

Striped Parklane dress $178

The tassel pocket wallet $52

Cabana Dress $178

honeydew® intimates flower lace bralette $32

Introducing my new beauty obsession: BIRCHBOX

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:48:00 PST

Who doesn't want to get samples like this for ONLY $10 a month and learn about new products!? It's like getting a goodie bag every month without going to an event:) And, you can buy anything you LOVE from the sample set on BirchBox usually with a discount.
I just received my first months box and loved it...it was super fun getting new items to try. I'd been meaning to sign up for so long and I'm mad I waited so long. This is also a great gift for someone. This way they'll get something special from you every month:) If you are interested in signing up check it out here.

Cheap Chicas on Nate Berkus show sharing about 8 items every lady should have in her wardrobe...including the ponte knit pant

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:34:00 PST

Here is the show and a couple of ideas for how to style your new ponte knit pants:)

and

The new must-have pant according to Cheap Chicas

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:13:00 PST

Ponte Knit Pant by fashionalities featuring ponte knit pants

1. Women's Alexander Wang Ponte Knit Track Pants $450 crazy high, but thought I'd share designer version as well;) 2. Lilliana's fave! Simply Vera Vera Wang Skinny Ponte Pants on sale for $33.60..maybe get a coupon and take a little more off:) 3. Rachel Roy Skinny Ponte Pants $207 4. BCBGMAXAZRIA Mason Ponte Knit Pant $118 5. Similar to above: MICHAEL Michael Kors Petite Pants, Skinny Leg Ponte Knit $29.99 6. The pair I think I'm getting by Gap of course:) Gap Ponte Pant (they seem to have a variety of styles in ponte knit) $16.99

After watching the Nate Berkus show last week an item that Lilliana Vazquez of Cheap Chicas was gushing over caught my attention. The Ponte Knit Pant. Now she says this is an everyday pant for any lady...from home to office...it's an upgrade to the legging, but just as comfy. I'm excited to try them out...but, wanted to ask her a few more questions and thought I'd share:)
NOTE: Here is the show that I am referring to over and over:)

*Why would you say every woman needs a pair of black ponte knit pants in their wardrobe?

IT’S A STAPLE...JUST LIKE A CLASSIC WHITE BUTTON DOWN. THEY'RE EASY TO PAIR WITH OTHER CLASSIC ITEMS OR USE THEM TO EXPERIMENT WITH MORE FASHION FORWARD ITEMS. I'M ALSO ALL ABOUT PIECES THAT MIX FUNCTION AND FASHION--PONTE PANTS ARE SO COMFORTABLE AND THEY CAN GO SUPER CASUAL OR DRESSED UP. AND IN MY OPINION, THEY'RE THE PERFECT HYBRID--THE COMFORT OF A LEGGING WITH THE STYLING OF A TROUSER THANKS TO THE DOUBLE KNIT INTERLOCK FABRIC THAT MAKES THEM FIRM AND RESILIENT BUT STILL FLEXIBLE AND SOFT.

*I don't own any yet and I'm searching for the right pair. Which brands do you recommend trying?

I REALLY LIKE SIMPLY VERA VERA WANG AT KOHLS. HERS HAVE GREAT DETAILING (SEAMS, POCKETS), GREAT STRETCH THAT BOUNCES BACK AFTER WASHING AND THEY'RE SUPER AFFORDABLE! OLD NAVY ALSO MAKES SOME GREAT ONES THAT HAVE A MORE MODERN FLAIR! (She got these in December…I didn’t see them online. But, I say check out your local store. They have huge sales going on right now and you might be able to test this new pant out for nothing:))

*How would you style the black ponte knit pant?

I LOVE A PONTE PANT WITH AN OVER SIZED SWEATER AND FLAT BOOTS IN THE WINTER. FOR A DRESSIER LOOK AT THE OFFICE OR A NIGHT OUT THEY ALSO LOOK SUPER CUTE WITH A SILK BUTTON DOWN, A BLAZER AND HEELS!

*Please include anything about the pant I should share:)

THEY HAVE TO HAVE DETAILS LIKE SEAMS AND/OR POCKETS-- THE FABRIC SHOULD ALSO FEEL THICK AND STRUCTURED, OTHERWISE IT'S JUST A LEGGING!

Introducing The Shops at Target

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 07:25:00 PST

I get even more excited watching this! I want it all...ok something from every focus:) Or maybe more...I will either be buying in store (preferably) or online. Wondering what the price point will be like and how they will have the "boutique" look in store.

Hello Willis from Coach

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 20:46:00 PST

Well, it seems I keep falling in LOVE with Coach handbags recently...and this time it's not a limited edition Blogger handbag...but, it is something special. A remix to the classic everyone already loved. I'm loving the color choices below...but, there are more options. The top right is so fun, but I'd probably go with the classic bottom left option. I just love that color for everything:) I think the tassel is also what does it for me. I wonder how large the bag is...I do like my bags big. Hopefully they will have the handbag in store so I can check it out. I'm going to the local Coach store on Friday since I was told new items would be coming in, so I'm crossing my fingers:) Which color would you get?

Hello Willis! by fashionalities featuring a leather shoulder bag

Handbag, $298
Handbag, $298
COACH leather shoulder bag, $298
Handbag, $298
Handbag, $298

Jason Wu for Target on the Today show

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 20:12:00 PST

I'm really going to have to see everything in store...I'm just never sure if items will be too short. But, I'm very excited about some of the handbags! They have definitely caught my eye! What are you wanting from the Jason Wu for Target line? Do you think it will sell out like Missoni for Target did since the first lady has worn his designs?

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

GlitternGlue Rhinestone Strand DIY Necklace

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:42:00 PST

One of my favorite DIYers! Get ready to be inspired! A DIY project and some tips on how to buy the tools you use on a budget.

My new addiction: Poshmark

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:31:00 PST

I have been using the Poshmark app nonstop recently. I'm always selling clothes at Buffalo Exchange, but recently this is the place to sell things. You get 80% of the sales (they pay via PayPal, check or credit for their site.), they handle the shipping and it's just sooo easy! If you have an iPad or iPhone start selling or buying now.
Here are a few items I'm selling right now.:

The Revolution - Tim's Tips - Prioritize Your Closet - The Revolution

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 22:39:00 PST

Tim is so cute...ready to start watching this manana:) Make sure it's on your list! (It started today and I missed it...)

Still following Solange Knowles style in 2012 plus, her first runway show with Alberta Ferretti

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 22:32:00 PST

She has been in a variety of magazines since the new year. I'm loving the images from Oyster mag(above). Loving her hair and the styling of course...just amazing.

Recently, Solange walked in Alberta Ferretti's Pre-Fall 2012 show. See video below.

Also, check out her blog...it's a visual blog on Tumblr so a ton of inspiration. (mydamnblog.com) Also, follow her on twitter...she shares a lot...it's fun:) (@solangeknowles) Plus, stay tuned for her new album out soon!

StyleMint Stylist of the Month - Katherine Power

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 22:27:00 PST

Great styling inspiration for a stripe dress or T I say. LOVE all the looks! Hmmmm...decisions, decisions...the dress or the T...ok, both:) Enjoy!

Styling inspiration: what to pair your turbands & turbans with

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 20:25:00 PST

I'm always raving about how much I love turbans and turbands and sharing where I've bought them. But, I just noticed I've never shared the styling inspiration I've found that makes me LOVE them even more.

*These are all street style images I have saved to my iPad that I'm sharing and none that I take credit for.

How to look tres' chic in flats, it can be done

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:45:00 PST

I was looking through old pics on my iPad and thought I'd share some inspiration that was getting me excited about creating new looks of my own:). Olivia Palermo knows how to rock flats hands down! Got a little excited going through images and shared a lot. Id say a majority of these looks are spring related. Unless you live somewhere like me (in AZ) where it's HOT most of the year. Enjoy!

*these are not my images and since they are so old I'm not sure where they are from.
**the last image is The Manrepeller of course:)

Guest Post: The Fringe from InStyle Swimwear

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 PST

Let's face it...I'm a LOVER of fringe and I can tell many others are because it's everywhere for now on handbags, jackets and more. Plus, we'll see more in the spring from a statement accessory to a fringed top. I say when you are down to just wearing a swim suit as a fashionista you still need to bring some flair and these suits do just that...so, get ready for your holiday packing with some great tips and tricks from InStyle swimwear.

For 2012, it’s all about fun and fabulous fringe! For all you fashionistas who are looking to score that chic bohemian beach vibe, you’ll love this season’s new fringe swimwear styles. As with all trends, it’s best not to overdo it, but these gorgeous new styles will definitely have you looking like the belle of the beach.

If you’re a bikini-wearer, there are a number of new fringe swimwear tops that are innovative and just plain amazing. L Space Swimwear is one brand that seems to have mastered the trend. Not only do they have a best-selling fringe bandeau top, but for the 2012 season they have created a new halter top style as well. Although both tops will look gorgeous on all women, they’re perfect for those with smaller busts, as the sassy fringe detail will help make you appear fuller up top! Both fringe swimwear styles come in a variety of colors, such as iris, citrus, tiffany blue and classic black. So for those on a budget, treat yourself to a new top and pair them with bottoms that you already own!

But if the thought of a bikini scares you, you’ll love the new 2012 fringe swimwear styles in one-piece silhouettes. Designer brands like L Space Swimwear and Tori Praver know that not everyone feels comfortable in an itsy bitsy bikini, so they have come up with some sleek new one-pieces and monokinis that feature amazing coverage and style. Their designs have sexy plunging necklines with chic fringe detail and will help emphasize the areas you love most about your body while providing you with substantial front coverage.

Finally, if you’re not bold enough to rock fringe swimwear but love its boho-chic look, don’t fret! For 2012, look for tunics and dresses that can serve as swimsuit cover-ups or everyday-wear! Brands such as PilyQ, Despi and L Space all feature gorgeous cover-up styles with fringe embellishments that will have you looking totally on-trend this season.

(****Sidenote: I LOVE this color!!! Also LOVE the beading:)

This year, whether you’re bummin’ it at the local beach or partying it up at a Vegas pool party, be bold and rock the fringe swimwear trend!

Susan Bodack is a blogger at Beauty and the Beach, the swimwear and fashion blog by InStyleSwimwear.com. Visit them today to snag these fringe swimwear styles and more!

NuyBeauty: Easy Hello Kitty & Design Kids Manicure

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:31:00 PST

I can't wait till Sahara is old enough to do this! Until then, I'm using these tips for moi:) This is for all of the fashionista's out there with kids...I know you'll love this!:) Nuy Beauty rocks! Check her out for more AMAZING tips!

Nicole Richie Tells Us Why We Need to Watch Fashion Star

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:56:00 PST

GENIUS! I can't wait to watch this and BUY! I always wish I could buy the items I see on these reality designer shows...Get ready!

Pleated top inspiration from Kourtney Kardashian on last nights Kourtney & Kim Take New York

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 07:56:00 PST

I watch any Kardashian program to watch what Kourtney is wearing. She is my fave fashion sister of the Kardashians...but, last night it looks like Kris had my style attention in Dubai. I LOVED her Celine handbag...which is on the top of my list right now and it seems every other fashionistas and her DVF dress...to die...

But, back to Kourtney...last night I really liked her pleated top which seems is on pre-order for $136...or you could go the inspired look for much less.

Cameo Bazaar Pleated Cape Shirt - PREORDER $136

Inspired looks, *Now remember it doesn't have to be exactly like...it's inspired by:):

ASOS Embellished Trim Pleated One Sleeve Top $18.18

Cha Cha Vente Top, Kimono Sleeve Accordion Pleated Belted Chiffon Blouse $48

INC International Concepts Top, Batwing Sleeve Pleated Chiffon $49.99

Weekend Shopping: Payless End of Season Clearance, Plus an EXTRA 20% off

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 20:38:00 PST

Ok, I am a HUGE bargain shopper so I am heading on over to Payless manana to see if any of the designer Payless collabs are up for big savings grabs:) Here is what I found online that doesn't sound bad...Plus, you can send it to the store for FREE delivery and then check out what's on sale in store:)!

New designer collab items should start trickling in by February so sit tight...they are going to be GOOD!

Women's Jaws Ghillie

Isabel Toledo for Payless

ONLY $16, plus the 20% off!

Women's Allegra Bow Ballet Flat

Silvia Tcherassi for Payless

ONLY $16, plus the 20% off!

Women's Lazer Wedge Shootie

Isabel Toledo for Payless

Only $16, plus the 20% off!

The total for all of these would end up being $12.80 each...I know because I'm getting the first pair:) hehe...happy shopping!

Guest Post: New Year, New You, & a New Wardrobe at the Fraction of the cost

noreply@blogger.com (Natasha Holstine) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:30:00 PST

Thank you to Tasha Robinson from Imperfect Concepts for her expertise on the matter of shopping for clothes at a thrift store. I LOVE shopping her online store, Imperfect Concepts bargain designer items and unique vintage finds. Plus, I love following her on twitter @imperfectconcept and asking her questions about other items I'm searching for...she has a great eye and is on top of all levels of fashion.

2011 has come and gone and now you’re embarking on new levels of success in 2012 but you feel that your wardrobe is still reeking college graduate or unemployed chic. The budget you thought you had is three times smaller than you would like so you don’t know where to start on your path for a new wardrobe to go with the new you. Simple, your local thrift store. See, you don’t need more than $30 and you can build a nice staple of pieces to go with your already existent wardrobe.

First, survey the pieces in your closet and see which ones are out dated. If out dated or no longer fit donate to your local women’s shelter or church to a person in need. Now see what you need to build a wardrobe of staples and alternatives. Nina Gracia’s The One Hundred is a great to help you with key pieces but the rule of thumb is women should have these 10 key items (Crisp white button down top, trench coat, ballet flats, 1 pair of skinny jeans, 1 jean you prefer, black purse, leopard scarf, cashmere sweater, black blazer & classic Little Black Dress) here is a link to a Wendy’s Look Book she explains all the pieces.

Now onto the fun part, you have your list and you know what you need in your closet. Google all the thrift or vintage boutiques in your town then find the ones in the ritzy neighborhoods. People tend to donate closer to their home. I will say when shopping you MUST have an open mind to the garments you will find. Yes, you need a black purse and ballet flats but we are not pigeon holding you to a particular style of either. If you see some pointy toe classic flats grab them if they fit your style aesthetic. Furthermore, look for other items that you can use later on. If you are a lover of dresses search the dresses section for ones you might like and can get alter to fit you and your needs. Also make sure to search the children’s section for great blazers and scarves. My favorite Brooks Brothers white button down is actually from the men’s section of a local thrift store. To get more bang for your buck call ahead to see the deals the store might offer. Hey, we know the prices are already pretty darn cheap but what person doesn’t love additional off savings.

All in all, building a new wardrobe at the fraction of the cost can be quite fun when shopping your local thrift store. From finding vintage KISS t-shirts to scoring Lanvin flats every piece is unique and new to you. Keep your eyes open when your shopping and the store is your play ground.