Fleur Luxe

Joie De Vivre - Washington D.C. Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Tue, 07 May 2013 16:05:00 +0000

Random shoes in the street

Wasn't really sure what to think when I saw it. The randomness definitely put a smile on my face and I attributed the lonely shoes to the only explanation I could think of -- someone apparated (Potter nerds know what I'm talking about)

Cherry Blossoms

We were fortunate enough to be in D.C. the last weekend of the Cherry Blossom festival. I always knew that they were pretty but seeing sooo many out and about was just breath taking. I took 234523 million photos of them.

Odd Fountain Decor

Being a down right nerd and history lover, I have read and watched pieces on the supposed secrets clues all around D.C. - this definitely caught my eye but I doubt its anything important. Though, how random? Whose head was this fashioned after? lol

A memorable quote

Loved this quote so much. There were actually tons of great pieces of knowledge all around the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial. I just love this one because its so true. We have to leave all of the ick behind in the past and move forward.

A beautiful day

I seriously enjoyed walking around D.C. with my family. It was gorgeous outside. I felt a sense of pride in being a citizen of the U.S.A. There have been so many people that have sacrificed for this country and its our responsibility to keep the progress going.

Mother's Day Gifts $50 & Under

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Wed, 01 May 2013 16:26:00 +0000

Mothers Day Gifts Under 50 by fleurluxe featuring a kates spade

1. Scent Crafters Custom Perfume. $39.99 - Your mom will be so pleased that she has her own special scent. If you are too unsure of what you think she would like scent wise... its okay they have gift cards.
2. Tree of Life Initial Pendant- Etsy. $46.00 - I think this necklace is absolutely adorable yet fashionable. This is a unique take on all of those crazy initial mom necklaces you see everywhere.
3. Picnic Basket for Two $45.87 - If your Mommy loves lazy evening basking in the sun then this is a must have for her!
4. Tea Set $49.95 - This is for the mom that made sure that you ate healthy 24/7 and entertains her friends with tea and fresh treats.
5. Kate Spade Tablet Sleeve $50.00 - If she is in between work calls while cooking and has 5 million things to do every day... chances are she needs a fancy sleeve for her tablet.

Long Lasting Red Lipstick

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Wed, 01 May 2013 00:27:00 +0000

Me thinking about how to make red lips last

I looooove red lipstick! I try to wear it as often as possible. Red lips aren't only a classic beauty look... they are a fashion statement. So for those reasons alone- I totally love it. However, the down side is that when you start eating or just go on about your day... your red lips start to disappear and you look like a complete wreck. I recently was at work and didn't bother to look in the mirror after lunch and noticed that all that was left of my red pout was an outer lining and it was NOT cute.

Tips to help keep your red lips lasting longer:

1. Exfoliate. If you have smooth lips there is less of a chance that your lips stick will act crazy. I currently using Mary Kay's lip mask but I do adore Laura Gellar's Lip Strip.

2. Use a lip primer or concealer OR BOTH. This is the method that most make up artist use. Prime your lips with your favorite product (check out: Too Faced Lip Insurance or Benefit Lip Plump) Once you are done applying your color of choice, rim the outside of your lips with concealer to prevent feathering.

3. Lip Liner is a must. I hate lip pencils and I'm not really sure why. They seriously help you keep your color on just apply to entire lip instead of outer edge.

Getting the Right Red

Everyone can wear red lipstick. You just need to find what suits your skin tone better. If you have a cool skin tone then you will probably want to stick with the blue/fuchsia reds. If you have a warm undertone then the orangy reds are the ones for you. I definitely recommend going to your favorite make up store and experimenting. Dragon by Chanel used to be one of my favorites until I discovered Russian Red from MAC. The picture to the left is a great depiction of orange vs blue red.

How to Apply:

1. Start with fresh exfoliated, smooth lips. Apply either concealer or primer to the entire lip. Let it set.

2. Next, apply lip liner to your entire lip. Be very careful. You do not want to make a mistake here. In case you do make a bobo, simply wipe off with q-tip and restart your steps.

3. Apply your favorite lip stick. Some people prefer to use a lip brush for this but go with whatever makes you comfy.

4. Last, apply concealer to the outer edge of your lips. I recommend a concealer brush for this.

5. Don't forget to pack your lip stick with you for quick application after eating or smooches!

Updates.

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:57:00 +0000

Hello Fleurettes,

I would like to thank each and every one of you who frequents my site for being extremely patient with me. I haven't posted in a few weeks and it has been with much regret. In my time away I have been working 50+ hrs a week, tying up loose ends with our wedding, preparing/travelling to Virginia for my sister's wedding, the usually daily things, and squeezing in quality time with Shane. Luckily, most of these tasks are done and I will once again be posting here on a weekly to biweekly basis. When I reflect I know that this little blog with my faithful readers is one of the things that keeps me sane and it truly saddens me when I neglect such a wonderful things.

-Kimberly

How to: Yummy Thin Mint Milkshake

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 22:52:00 +0000

That's right... THIN MINT MILKSHAKE! Now, some of you that know me personally know that milk and I are frenemies but I just couldn't resist. I know I'm not the first person to come up with this but I just had a craving for chocolate and this is what happened. Besides being delicious, this recipe is great for those of you who decided to buy up a whole bunch of cookies to send your little babies to camp this summer! Did I mention how easy it was??

1) What you will need: 1.5 cups of milk, 7 scoops of chocolate ice cream, at least 9 thin mints and whipped cream. For more of a minty taste, use mint ice cream. 2) Put your milk, ice cream and cookies in the blender. I prefer to break up the cookies to speed up the process- blend for approximately 2 minutes. 3) Pour yourself a glass of yummy thick milk shake and add whipped cream and a whole cookie on top for style points! Enjoy.

Recipe yields 2 servings.

How to be a Positive Person

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 02:29:00 +0000

You aren't going to truly find your answer on the internet somewhere but I would like to share with you things that have helped me strive to have a positive outlook on life. You have to first accept that LIFE IS NOT EASY. Life was never meant to be easy. If you feel like things need to go your way, things should automatically be easy, or that you simply shouldn't have to work hard for what you want then you are on the road to major setbacks. You must truly know that everyday can and most likely will be a challenge and have to be ready to assess it with a sound mind.

Another thing that has helped me out is having a belief in something. I am not only speaking spiritually... I mean a belief that things will get better and that every situation has an ending. If you don't believe there is an end to your misery or that you will never get out of a bad situation... most likely you won't.

One thing people find the hardest to do is change. If something isn't working in your life or you feel like someone brings a lot of negative energy- change it. It is easier said than done but once again life isn't suppose to be a cake walk. It's easier to stay positive when you know you are surrounding yourself with good things and know that there is always room for growth.

So here is to taking a step in a more positive direction.

Joie De Vivre

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 04:20:00 +0000

I haven't posted one of these in almost 3 weeks! Bad Kim! There have been plenty of things for me to be excited about within those days but here are some hilights.

Tiny Banana.

I'm not sure where my mother got her hands on such a itsy bitsy banana but I sure loved it. It actually tasted a little bitter but I just adored how petite it was.

Wedding Shoes.

I originally started off with a different pair that had a little more "bling" to it but decided that I needed something that was more fitting to me and that was a little more comfortable. I can't believe that we are only 3 months away til the big day!

Classic Cheesecake.

One of my favorite places to go for a quick bite is Le Madeleine. I not only enjoy their food but their dessert is great!! This cheesecake totally made my day.

Fun Moments in Baton Rouge.

Bowie is a very peculiar kitty. He seriously will let you do anything to him... no really. You want to dance, dress him up, play fetch, you name it- Bowie is down. My dear friend Laura had him model this shirt that she gave to Luna and he looked marvelous in it. She then introduced me to Vine and we laughed & laughed.

Awesome Necklace.

I've actually have had this necklace for nearly two months now but, I lost it a week after I purchased it and now its back in my life. Not only is this a lovely statement necklace... it was dirt cheap. I got it for about $6 at Forever21.

2013 Swim Suit Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 05:49:00 +0000

My favorite time of the year is summer! I love the colors, the light fabrics and especially the lack of clothing required to leave my home. Hehehe. On a serious note, this year it seems as though swim suits are getting even sexier and a little hipsterish.

1. Cut outs. We have been seeing strategically placed cut outs all over the runways so it is no surprise that swimwear is getting the same treatment. I think this is a great way to show some skin with out showing all of your goods. 2. Suspenders. This is beyond adorable. I think this would work great on wider builds because it will add length and make you appear smaller! 3. Scallops/Frills. This is an ultra femme look that gives you the sweet girl look. I recommend frills on more petite figures because it will add some volume. 4. Plunging Necklines. This is for my super thin, less bustier babes who want to show some major skin. This is a great step for those who want to avoid two pieces but don't wanna look too conservative. 5. High Waisted Bottoms. This is for all of you retro lovers out there! This type of suit would look best with a big floppy hat and cat eye sunglasses. 6. Crochet. It is so delicately bohemian and truly summer. This is one of my favorite trends at the moment and I think crochet is an amazing way to soak up the sun!

Source: Etsy.com via Pinterest

Another trend I forsee being huge this year, thanks to Rihanna, is the body chain. I feel like they give your bikini and extra something that screams sex appeal. Of course, be weary of what kind of swim suit you pair it with. I definitely feel that if you are going to rock a body chain that you should pair it with a very simple swim suit silhouette and make sure that your chain is just an added feature and not a true focal point.

85th Annual Academy Awards Fashion Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 08:34:00 +0000

There were waaay too many gorgeous dresses on the red carpet to make an Oscar's Best and Worst Dressed list so, I figured I would show you guys what was so fabulous this year! There were three trends that really stuck out to me: Column Dresses, Dramatic Skirts, and Glitz!

Source: Celebutopia

Sexy and chic, the column dress style was a big winner at this year's Oscars. It's a very elegant cut that lends itself to texture and color with out fear of having a dress look over the top! From Left to Right: Kerry Washington in Miu Miu. I love the color and that sweet bow was just enough! Her dress also had a train which was a nice touch. Stacy Keibler wowed in the Naeem Khan studded dress. I love the neckline and the back of it is to die for as well. Jessica Chastain wore a nude Armani gown. This dress has been on everyone's radar. Sandra Bullock wore one of my favorite designers- Elie Saab. The lace and beading is just amazing on her.

Source: Celebutopia

Drama, drama, drama to the floor. I was so delighted to see these fun skirt options. I personally will be wearing a mermaid cut dress in the near future ;). This is a fun way to add some pizzazz to an otherwise drab dress. First we have the lovely Amy Adams in Oscar de la Renta. I love the layered tulle skirt. Its absolutely beautiful. Jennifer Garner's dress was my favorite! This Gucci gown was right on the money with color and flair. I also love that she wore a sapphire ring. It's a great accent. The Dior Haute Couture gown worn by Jennifer Lawrence is an exaggerated mermaid style. This is a dress that will be iconic for sure. Kristen Stewart wore a Reem Acra dress. I didn't care much for the entire dress itself but I do love the lower skirt area. It is very unexpected and I think it gave the dress some personality.

Source: Celebutopia

It can't be a Hollywood party with out some glitz! Sequins, beading, and high sheen fabrics can really kick a boring design to the next level. Any how, I think all four of these dresses were great and sparkle is all the rage! Nicole Kidman's dress was very unique but I loved it. The L'Wren Scott sequins gown pushed the limits. Adele looked gorgeous in this Jenny Packham dress. It's a lovely silhouette and the beading made a suttle statement. Jennifer Hudson looked awesome. I love this color on her and not pictured is a lovely front slit. Bravo Roberto Cavalli! Last but definitely not least is the breath taking Catherine Zeta Jones. This dress landed spots on some worst dressed list but I think it's rather nice! The detailing on this Zuhair Murad dress is nothing to sneeze at in my opinion.

Joie de Vivre

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Sat, 16 Feb 2013 17:01:00 +0000

The first crawfish of the year.

My sister was in town for Mardi Gras from Virginia and she had to have crawfish! It is something that I will never get tired of eating! We all gathered around and ate pounds and pounds... with the left overs we made crawfish alfredo! Yum, yum!

Vintage inspired perfume bottle.

I keep it on top of my jewelry armoire along with other fragrances. I actually found this lovely bottle at a jewelry trade show and had to have it. Lately it has been catching my eyes and has me on the hunt for the perfect emerald nail polish.

My new puppy.

I know some of you may think that I'm absolutely bonkers about animals... I do adore them. In an earlier Joie de Vivre post, I mentioned that we attempted to get a pup at the beginning of this year but with no luck. Well, we found our new baby and named her Luna. She's the sweetest and cutest!

Photography lessons + Hibiscus flower.

My sister is an amazing photographer. She has a great eye for capturing scenes and getting unique angles on her pictures. So while she was in town I got a mini tutorial that left me with some nice images! Hopefully my pictures will start improving on here!

How to: Fried Sweet Plantains or Platanos Maduros

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 14:11:00 +0000

In Nicaragua or any Central American household this side dish is very, very common. But don't worry, I've introduce sweet plantains to many of my non-Hispanic friends and they adore them! So if you are trying to make dinner a little more interesting- give these a try.

What you will need:

Plantains- Make sure they are yellow and black in color and soft when you squeeze it.
Frying Oil- I prefer Canola
Crema Fresca- this will be what you dip your plantains in! The best part!

How to:

1. Peel your plantains and cut at an angle. You want to cut it like your are making an oval and make sure that you make them a little thick.
2. Heat up oil. You want your oil to sit over fire for at least 2-3 minutes before you drop in the plantains.
3. Once you drop them in, wait til they are a golden brown color and flip if necessary.
4. Remove plantains from oil once they are fully cooked. I usually like to ensure that I've gotten an extra oil off of them by dabbing with a paper towel. Then let it cool.
5. Serve up with your favorite dish- I would recommend Gallo Pinto and Carne Asada...or even tacos! Also, don't forget to serve them with crema fresca. I unfortunately was so excited to eat them that I forgot to take a picture with cream on it...oops!

Best and Worst Dressed of 55th Annual Grammy Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:31:00 +0000

Let me be frank for a sec here... no one should really care what celebrities wear. I just love a red carpet and I was so inspired and not so inspired but some of these dresses that I just had to make a post!

Best Dressed @ 55th Annual Grammy's: Source

Kimbra- Jaime Lee: This dress actually landed on a few worst dressed list but not for me! I think this whimsical dress is absolutely gorgeous on her! The soft turquoise tulle and delicate bead work was very glamorous and over the top yet soft and feminine.

Rihanna- Azzedine Alaia: What more can I say. I FREAKIN' LOVE THIS GIRL. She looked beautiful! This dress screams glamour and sexy but is still very lady like. This was the best dress there.

Taylor Swift- J Mendel: I usually am not wowed by anything Taylor Swift wears but this was a very sophisticated and well balanced dress. I just love the overall goddess feel and the cut outs are in just the right places. It surely makes up for that top hat/circusy thing she wore for her performance.

Natasha Bedingfield- Emerson: Again, we see here great cut outs and a beautiful neckline. I love that she wore a metallic belt with the dress. Its gives the red lace a little more edge. Also, who doesn't love a front slit?

Worst Dressed @ 55th Annual Grammys: Source

Jennifer Lopez- Anthony Vaccarello: Jennifer Lopez usually has on great dresses... so I was let down a bit with this number. It does nothing for her figure and it just hangs. The top bun isn't working for me either. I think I would've like to have seen this dress with out the long sleeve, a little more fitted in the bodice area and sheer!
Adele- Valentino: The cut of the dress itself isn't too bad. In fact, the cut is spot on Adele... I'm just tired of the same look on her. Yes, I do like that she didn't wear black but this isn't the best print either. We all know how much I adore Valentino but I just couldn't get on board with this one.
Katy Perry- Gucci: All I can say is blah. It's just blah. The neck detailing is nice... the boob window is expected...Katy doesn't mind showing some cleavage but blah.
Kelly Rowland- Georges Chakra Couture: I'm sure I'm one of the only people that put her on a worst dressed list for this dress but, I'm sorry... this is just too much. The silhouette is perfect on her. I think it fits her body type well. The cut outs on her leg are okay. They really lost me with the chest cut outs. I'm just not feeling them. To me, it makes the dress appear less sexy and almost a little costumey.

Gel Liner Review: M.A.C., Bobbi Brown, Mary Kay

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 05:03:00 +0000

I swear by nothing else but gel liners and Urban Decay pencils when it comes to eye liners! It took me a while to get used to the application of gel liners but, it's actually great! Through out my experimental phase, I went through quite a few brands! I tried Coastal Scents, L'oreal, Mary Kay, Smashbox M.A.C., and Bobbi Brown. Out of all of those brands... three came out on top for different reasons.

Mary Kay

Pigmentation is amazing! Very impressive color.
Long lasting (8-10 hrs) and once dry doesn't budge.
Not easy to apply. Its a very soft gel so a little goes a long way and spreads easily.
Great price- $12

Bobbi Brown

Great consistency in formula. Makes application very manageable
Long lasting (8-10 hrs) and doesn't spread through out day.
Numerous color options- 13 to be exact! Great color pay off!
A little pricey- $23

M.A.C.

Very easy application. The best consistency in a gel liner formula that I have tried to date.
Spectacular color pay off.
Lasts for about 5 hrs. Color doesn't fade but it does spread.
Retail: $16

Joie De Vivre

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 06:30:00 +0000

This edition of Joie De Vivre is fashionably late! I was with out my camera for almost a week so it was hard to chronicle my favorite things from last week but here is what I enjoyed. I was feeling very "catty" this week. :)

My leopard tights.

I looooove fun tights! These in particular I've been hiding in my dresser for quite sometime. I've had them for years and I just never felt like wearing them. Well, I found some courage and rocked them.

The sky.

On January 21st, Jupiter was visible to the naked eye. If you look closely you can see it in the picture. Its the blurry spot above the right side of the moon. It shined so brightly. That night there was also a moon ring but I couldn't photograph it for some reason. :(

A new found favorite nail color.

This color is Penny Talk by Essie. I have an irrational love for Essie nail polish so anytime I visit a drug store or Target that is usually the first product I go looking for. I think this color is amazing and will look fantastic on all skin tones!

Chocolate.

I have been a chocolate fiend!! Any form of it: milk shakes, bars, cakes...you name it I do find that I have been especially love chocolates with almonds. Lets be fair here: chocolates give you endorphins which make you feel happy and in love! Why not love it?

My tuxedo cat.

This kitty is the love of my life. Ive been having Binky for 11 years now and he's quite unique to other cats I've owned in the past. He's my alarm clock and snuggle buddy.

Valentine Gifts under $100

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:51:00 +0000

If you want to give her a gift that she'll absolutely love but don't want to spend an arm and a leg... here are a few suggestions!

Lovestruck by Vera Wang. It smells amazing and is totally appropriate for Valentine's Day.
"Carri" by Jessica Simpson. A classic peep toe will take you far. Not only is this style pretty much a gem in every girl's closet but its also super stylish!
Heart of Gold Gift Box by Lush. This amazing gift set includes 6 different treats for your skin... including massage bars! Think of it as a potential gift to yourself.
After Hours Satin Pajama by Victoria's Secret. A great gift for the gal that likes to be comfortable yet chic! Its also a lot more practical than getting cheesy lingerie.
On the Mark Necklace by Stella & Dot. Great gift option for the fashionable girl who isn't necessarily into Valentine's day but loves fashion!
Addicted to Love Dress- Nasty Gal. Besides this dress being absolutely fabulous... nothing says like get ready for a great night like this dress!!

Joie De Vivre

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 05:02:00 +0000

French Quarter Balconies.

One of the many things that I love about New Orleans is the architecture. Balconies are pretty coveted here. If a restaurant or bar has a great balcony... you are in business! The photographed balcony has a few modern touches but the cascading greenery made it a delightful site.

Sparkly Boots.

We all know how much I love footwear... well this one was no exception. I only find this trend refreshing on young girls. Females over the age of 13 shouldn't be wearing sequins boots unless they work in entertainment. Although, a little sparkle doesn't hurt anybody.

Beignets and Cafe au Lait

This will never get old...ever. If you have the pleasure of being near a Cafe Du Monde, YOU MUST GO.

A Charmed Gate.

These gates are located right outside of the entrance of the Court of Two Sisters. The gates were forged in Spain and Queen Isabella had them blessed. The Queen wanted the gates to pass on their charm to anyone who touched them. And yes, I did touch it. :)

Yummy Family Traditions.

Anytime there is a celebration at the Espinoza home... berry chantilly cake from Whole Foods is a must. This particular event was my sister's birthday. It's such a delicious and pretty cake.

Jan 2013 Favorite Fashion Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 07:13:00 +0000

I'm loving so many things right now! I love the direction fashion is going into... mixed patterns, chunky necklaces, and a military feel. :)

Sources Listed in description

1. Gold Dipped- Alexander McQueen Perspex Heel. I've been seeing GOLD everywhere and I couldn't be happier. Whether it be on a shoe, purse, or jewelry... gold is making a comeback!

2. Chunky Necklaces- Stella & Dot Estate Bib Necklace. I'm a sucker for a statement necklace. This is a fun way to make an otherwise plain outfit bold and fun! I've been seeing these everywhere paired with sweat shirts and tailored button ups.

3. Military Mania- TopShop Camo Jacket. I want one sooo bad. I think these look adorable with little dresses and flats/combat boots. Just picture a cream lace dress, super sparkly necklace, camo jacket and cognac flats! You could also pair this up with a jean short and a tucked in distressed t-shirt.

4. Cosmic Love-Nasty Gal Supernova Leggings. I'm in the process of talking myself into it but I really do love this trend. Its such a unique pattern that you could wear with anything!

5. Aztec Cardigans- UO Staring at Stars Array Cardigan. No better way to stay warm than with an Aztec inspired sweater. Rock this out with black leggings, plain t, and knee boots and you are all set.

Joie De Vivre

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:37:00 +0000

The beginning of Mardi Gras season.

For those of you who aren't familiar with this magnificent pastry... it's a King Cake. The baby pictured in the center is put in through the bottom of the cake at a random spot. Whoever gets the slice with the baby inside is in charge of providing the next king cake! Besides that fun tid bit, they are rather delicious. The best in New Orleans has to be Manny Randazzo's...though they are a hot commodity around here so it's hard to get your hands on one.

A new friend.

This adorable pup belongs to a friend of mine! I fell in love with this choco lab immediately. We tried getting one of her siblings on Monday but someone beat us to it.

Rediscovering Style.

I am quite eclectic when it comes to style. Some days I'm super girly and other days I'm more boyish, vampy, retro, indie... basically it depends on my mood. I came across my Stella & Dot pearl necklace and felt so inspired. I'm feeling like this spring willl be very clean for me.

Not letting go of Christmas.

I totally forgot that I purchased this Christmas scented candle! It makes your whole house smell of cinammon and pine. It may not be Christmas but it smells like it!

Wedding Preparations.

We are getting married in a little less than 5 months! I have been the worst bride to be ever! I love decor and parties but I talked myself in circles with idea after idea. I had a break through this past week and actually am confident. A taste of the decor will be mismatched teacups filled with cabbage roses!

How to: Moon Nails

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 06:30:00 +0000

Moon nails are a trend from the 30's that has been revived! Did I mention how super easy it is to achieve this look? This a great way to make a statement without being too over the top as well as a sophisticated alternative to the classic, french manicure.

How To:

1. Gather your supplies-- You will need two complimentary colors. I used China Glaze's Unpredictable & NYC Skin Tight Denim. You will also need a top coat and round stickers!
2.Apply your base color. This will be the color that your lunulas/moon will be.
3. Once your base color is dry, put your guides to work. You want to make sure that they line up perfect. Also make sure that there are no opportunities for your second color to seep through.
4. Apply your second color and fix any mistakes that you make! Add on your top coat and you are finished.

Joie de Vivre

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Sat, 05 Jan 2013 05:23:00 +0000

Joie de Vivre is a new weekly tradition that I will be kicking off this year! I want to share with you guys the joys of living (joie de vivre). It will include things that I sometimes take for granted that make me happy as well as other fun things that I currently love. Perhaps it will inspire others to stop and smell the roses.

My new cape. I had been searching for one for so long and I finally found one and it was on sale too! I've been wearing it almost every day that I can. It looks great paired with fun tights or skinny jeans and long gloves.

Whiskers on kittens. Yes, it is very reminiscent of the song on "The Sound of Music" but I must agree. I love how cute kitties are with their whiskers.

As some of you know, I will be getting married in June and it is time to get serious about weight loss! My heart rate monitor has been one of the most encouraging tools! It tells you exactly how many calories you have burned during your work out session!

I received this book as a gift from one of my co-workers and I absolutely love it. It brings an instant smile to my face when I read it. Its literally pages of poems written in cat's point of view. Definitely a great book for the coffee table or restroom.

Whats so great about this lip treatment is that it was absolutely free. I received it as a free gift from Sephora and I didn't pay it much attention until I couldn't find my usual chapstick. This stuff is wonderful! It keeps my lips moisturized during the cold weather and its slightly tinted so it gives lips some color.

How to Make an Orange Pomander Ball

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:54:00 +0000

Orange pomander balls will give your home an instant holiday feel. The aroma of orange, cloves and warm spices smells amazing and it also is great holiday decor. This DIY project is also super easy... so easy in fact that you can get your children in on it! The particular method I will be sharing is the way that my fiancé's family does it :) There are ways to do it with out as many spices and I have also seen them covered in glitter!

What You Will Need

3-4 oranges depending on size
A LOT of cloves! I would purchase 2 of the biggest bottles available.
3 tablespoons cinnamon
3 tablespoons nutmeg
3 tablespoons of ground ginger
3 tablespoons of ground cloves
Festive ribbon
Scissors
Toothpicks

How to:

1. Before you cut your ribbon, measure it around your orange. For a midsized orange I would do anywhere from 3-4 feet of ribbon. Once you figure that out, wrap the ribbon around the orange like you would a present and knot it at the top. The ribbon will serve as your guide.

2. Take your toothpick and start poking holes in the orange. This is where your cloves will go. I have seen people get very creative here.

3. Insert cloves. During this process you can see where you can add more cloves and just work them in.

4. Once you are done inserting cloves, take off your ribbon because its time to bathe your orange in spices.

5. Mix all of your spices in a large bowl and roll your orange. The spices will clump in between the cloves but thats okay just pat it off.

6. Tie your ribbon around your spiced cloved orange and knot the top so that you can hang it from a door knob. Taaadaa!! Done.

The frangrance is amazing!

Happy Holidays!

Perfect Holiday Gifts for Her 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Sun, 25 Nov 2012 06:12:00 +0000

To me, the best part about the holidays is seeing that special someone so happy about a gift I gave them. It just makes me feel like I have accomplished something great! That being said... its not an easy task. So whether you are shopping for your special someone, friend, or daughter; here is my input on what presents are sure to wow! (Hint: You don't have to get the exact items listed- get something that fits that person's style and your budget the best)

1. Sephora Fragrance Sampler. $50. I adore these! They come out with a new set about twice a year and it makes buying perfume so easy! Not every one likes the same scents and scents also do not smell the same on every one. This is how it works... Try out all of the 12 samples inside. Pick your favorite. Go to Sephora and pick up a regular sized bottle of your favorite one! Easy!
2. FCUK Sequins Tunic Dress. $398. This particular dress is a little pricey but no one does sequins better than French Connection. Just think... your loved one will automatically have something fab to wear on New Year's Eve. If sequins isn't their style, try looking for a basic cut sweater dress! You can't go wrong there.
3. Michael Kors Hamilton Tote. $348. A purse is basically an extension of a woman's arm. I love this particular tote because its an elegant bag that is casual enough to be worn every day. I also love this color because it can be worn with ANYTHING- black, blue, pink, orange, yellow,etc.
4. Return to Tiffany Heart Bracelet. $250. Jewelry is a girl's best friend. This particular bracelet is more of a classic piece that a preppy lady would enjoy. If your girl happens to be a little out there try House of Harlow, Betsey Johnson, Juicy Couture, or Nasty Gal for jewelry. Hint: Notice what type of jewelry she owns now to see if you should get gold or silver!
5. Frye Veronica Boot. $358. Military style boots are all the rage right now. I especially adore these tall lace up ones! If she doesn't appreciate a tall boot perhaps look for a shorter combat boot. You can get these great Steve Madden combat boots for $99.95 as an alternative. Another great boot trend this season is two tone riding boots... check out Vince Camuto for those.
6. Beaded Ipad Case. $98. I will admit... thats a bit steep for an Ipad case however, if she is a techie, she will definitely appreciate something cute that will cover her precious tablet! Another option is customizing a case for her on Skinit.com
7. Laura Mercier Glamour Wardrobe Dual Decker Palette. $98.
If she is always dolled up... make up is the way to go! I picked out this particular palette because it covers eyes and lips. Also, Laura Mercier always has quality products... She hasn't disappointed me yet. On Sephora's website their are tons of other palettes to choose from too. If you are worried about which colors would look best on her stick with neutrals or look up colors that would flatter her skin tone and eye color.

What Men Think About Fashion & Beauty Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 13:47:00 +0000

Meet these two lovely men:

Christian adores fashion. In fact, he is currently studying fashion and is always on top of the trends. You can usually find him dressed in a button up, perfectly fit denim, and boots.

Shane is your typical male. Instead of being wrapped up in fashion, he can be found keeping up with sports. A typical outfit for him is a t-shirt, khaki shorts, and nautical shoes. P.S. He's also my lovely fiance.

I asked these very two fashionably different males what they thought about our favorite trends and this is what they had to say...

Christian
Shane

Skinny Jeans?

I love the silhouette of a skinny or slim straight legged jean.It's a great bottom piece to elongate ones silhouette and make one appear leaner. I do believe it is a new staple everyone should have!!!

They definitely look better on taller and slimmer people but, as long as they don't serve as a second layer of skin on people or create a muffin top then its okay.

Red Lips?

CCLLLLAAASSSSSSIIIICCCCCCCCC!!!!! I believe it can be the biggest and most important pop of color in a look. It's sexy and sassy and a great way to get attention.

Worst thing ever. Its not natural at all. Bright blonde hair and red lips is the worst combination ever.

Winged Eye Liner?

If you are edgy enough for it and have the guts to try it, DO IT!!! It's another classic make up style that was revived and I can never get enough of.

I like this look and I think it can really enhance your eyes. It gives me a a Persian vibe but, I think if you are going to do it... do it when it suits the occasion. It shouldn't be an every day look.

Sneaker Wedges?

Ok.. Ok...I admit that I was not a fan. Now that my moment of shame is over, I FREAKING LIVE FOR THEM!!! They are an awesome way of bringing a little something extra to an outfit. I mean its not just a sneaker like your chucks, but its not as dressy as your black wedges.

They are alright. I like this look better than regular wedges. It helps you hide your shortness lol

Leather Skirt/Pants?

WHY THE HELL NOT?!?! All major designers have shown variations of this. Find your age and style appropriate variation and rock it out!!! a great look for fall and winter. whether you wanna have a rocker look with leather skinnies or a little darker like a Rick Owens style it all pretty freaking fabulous.

I don't understand the fascination with leather clothing... I think it looks kinda cheesy. Its the perfect look if you want to fit in at the Blue Oyster Club from Police Academy.

Bright Eye Shadow?

I have a love & hate relationship with this. Like most things in make up and fashion, a little goes a long way. I think it is fun and sometimes can make ones eyes pop and the center of attention. Now the downside, DON'T OVER DO IT!!!! It can go from cute and playful, to jeresylicious, to drag queen REAL quick.

Its fine if the situation calls for it. Too many people wear it every day and its not necessarily a good look for them. If not done properly, you can look like a clown.

Smokey Eyes?

It is a simple understated look that will always go with anything and everything. It is as timeless as a LBD or a good fitting pair of dark jeans. It is a look that is perfect for those who go from day to night looks.

I like it. It draws good attention to the eyes and makes them look more exotic. However... you can resemble a raccoon if you aren't careful.

Hello Kitty Accessories?

Ok ladies we have problems with this... How old are you?! Act it and more importantly dress like it!! That also means accessorize like it!! I understand it has a cute, flirty, fun, and GIRLY appeal to it. I get that it's glittery and sparkly and we want that from time to time. I get above all it is very nostalgic for those of us who grew up playing with hello kitty things. BUT what would you think of a grown man with superman undies, belts, and school bag if you saw him out? Cheesy? Childish? Weird? Creepy? Just a couple of thoughts that come to my mind. Now, there are some age appropriate items and alternatives and I guess I can deal with it. And if you absolutely must I guess the phone cases are acceptable. But above all hell-no kitty!!

If you are a 12-14 year old school girl...its acceptable. Everyone else- grow up.

Studs/Spikes?

It is a fun and exciting trend. I think it can make things look edgy and show personality. I don't think it's a trend for everyone but it is for those that wanna try it.

It looks like battle attire. Who are you going to war with? Fashion?

What are your favorite looks for gals?

So many different looks to pick from but I'll keep it simple. Classic and simple is always the best thing for me. Hair pulled back in some sort of up do. Simple make up with a strong red lip. A good fitting flattering little black dress. A pop of color with a skinny belt. A good pair of heels or wedges are a must.

I like something basic. Make up doesn't have to be crazy just something to accentuate your natural beauty. Clothing doesn't have to be super dressy at all times and I can care less about shoes (as long as its not white shrimp boots)... also no front bangs. If you are not a natural blonde, get over it and stay your natural hair color.

Influenster's Bride-to-Be Vox Box

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 05:05:00 +0000

I've just started making plans for the big day and it was such a lovely surprise that Influenster put together a Bride-to-Be Vox Box. As always, all the products that were included in the Vox Box are courtesy of Influenster. Did I mention that they just revamped their site? It makes navigating so much easier and it looks way more appealing! If you are interested in being part of the Influenster program, click here.

Whats Inside?

Kiss' everEzlashes. Faux Lashes with Applicator Strings... this is a very interesting concept. This may be the easiest way to apply lashes ever... we will see if it holds up. I will definitely be doing a review/tutorial with these! These lashes retail for $3.99

Dream Water. I'm so excited to try this out. I'm tempted to do it tonight but I want to save it for a night that I actually need to go to sleep fast. This water makes you relaxed and ready to sleep. $2.99

Rescue Gum. Why is it called "rescue gum" well... its a homeopathic gum that makes all of your stresses of the world go away. I will definitely be putting this in my purse and see if it will in fact be my hero. $5.95

Schwarzkopf Professionals BC Repair Rescue. I am beyond excited to start testing this out. The sizes that were sent out are all full size so I will be testing it out to the max. This repair trio uses amino acids to give your hair more elasticity and strength. Shampoo $18, Conditioner $21, Sealed Ends Leave In Conditioner $21.

Last but not least is Ivy Date. Its a new dating site that has popped up... I'm not sure if I like the idea of them sending this in the Bride-to-be vox box but I suppose its good to pass on to friends who are looking and aren't afraid of online relationships. To get complimentary access use the code: VIPLUV

New York Fashion Week RTW 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberly) — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 04:18:00 +0000

Designers really brought it this time around. I can't truly say that I was disappointed in any one's collection. Having said that... I may be a little biased because the hottest trends on the cat walk so happen to be my personal favorites of all time.

What was hot?

Stripes- vertical, diagonal, horizontal... stripes every where!
Leather!!! I'm obsessed with leather and I'm glad to see that we will be seeing it for a while.
Busy floral prints
Peplum!
50s inspired cuts
Colors: burnt orange with a coral undertone, gold, tealish blues and greens & classic black/white

The following pictures were all taken from Style.com --this is the best site to check out the latest shows!!

Source: Style.com

A) Alexander Wang. His pieces reminded me a lot of The Fifth Element. It was very clean, precise and had tons of personality!! B) Alice + Olivia. Their collection was my favorite. It was very rockabilly and it was all so lovely. I enjoyed their pops of color and flirtiness. C) Anna Sui. This was sweet girls meets grunge! There was tons of mixing of florals with harsh mesh. D) Carolina Herrera. She is known as the queen of sophistication and she didn't let us down! In this picture we see the ever so popular orange hue that was used by many designers. E) Badgley Mischka. I may be biased when it comes to this design duo but I thought their pieces were gorgeous. They were all very soft and elegant but with fun cuts. I also noticed that they opted for a rosier gold and used some tweed. F) Charlotte Ronson. Loved this one!! There was a great amount of leather accents and an array of fabrics. This collection was ultra feminine with the right touches of beach and retro.

Source: Style.com

G) Cushnie et Ochs. To me this haus is known for daring cut outs but they topped themselves this year. Their line was ULTRA sexy!! Cushine et Ochs also opted to include a cobalt blue to their collection which I thought was quite refreshing. H) Rachel Roy. Her collection was a menagerie of prints and colors. She mixed alot of coral, pinks, and navy along with different prints. As usual, her line was very chic and feminine. I) Micheal Kors. To date, I think this may be one of my favorite MK collections. There was a lovely amount of colors and stripes but what really stood out to me were the daring simplicity of his pieces. J) Cynthia Rowley. All I could think was California when I looked through her collection. It was very floral, careless (in a good way) and beachy. K) Marchesa. Aaaaah!! As far as whose collection was different from the rest... they get my vote! It was such a stunning, Indian inspired collection. The dresses were gorgeous and romantic. L) Marc Jacobs. Can he do wrong? I don't think so. Like always, his super edgy take on fashion was stronger than ever. He used TONS of leather and stripes. It was very reminiscent of the psychedelic 60's.

Source: Style.com

M) Rachel Zoe. Her signature boho look was all over the collection but, I was way more interested in her belts... she has reinvented the fanny pack and I'm not mad at her for it. Her color palette was great! She had a lot of black and white pieces but, she also showcased orange, leaf green, coral, and mustard yellow. N) Victoria Beckham. Super clean and chic much like the designer... it was lovely seeing her do flirty silhouettes and turning them into something elegant. O) Narciso Rodriguez. His pieces are always so great and once again he made me wish I was rich. His collection was tres clean yet sexy. P) Thakoon. His interpretation of retro inspired clothing is phenomenal. Every piece was excellent. He used a lot of yellows, greens, floral prints, and very precise lines. Q) Rodarte. I thought this collection was pretty genius. It was a mix of goth meets warrior. I know that sounds something out of an awful sci-fi movie but the leggings in the picture above are killer!! R) Derek Lam. Mr. Lam married macrame and leather in his line. I loved the array of colorful leather and the intrinsic macrame was so eye catching.