platinum blonde life

Darling Spring/Summer 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 24 May 2012 15:16:00 +0000

Darling S/S 2012 Lookbook

I am completely smitten with Darling's Spring/Summer 2012 collection for it's endless supply of beautiful feminine clothing. The London label, designed by Nadia Moraes, will soon be available stateside at ModCloth and Anthropologie. Darling's floral rompers, polka-dots, lace, and chiffon will please the girly-girl in you. Check out the full lookbook on Darling's website.

ShoeMint May/April Haul

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Wed, 23 May 2012 18:38:00 +0000

ShoeMint's offerings have become increasingly tempting. This spring I purchased two swoon-worthy styles: The Jill criss-cross wedge sandal in a vivid coral hue, and the Bridget sandal in leopard print.

The Jill has a 1 3/4" wedge and is ridiculously comfortable. I was very impressed with the comfort of this shoe, my only complaint is that the back zip does seem to stick and takes some patience to get on and off.

The Bridget has a 1 1/2" wedge. I tend to flock to flat scrappy sandals, but I find them to be rather uncomfortable. The Bridget gives enough of a height boost to avoid the pains that come with wearing completely flat sandals.

Both styles have been very popular on the site, but in the past they have brought back past styles and colors, so it is always smart to keep checking back for additional stock in your size.

Top Ten: Printed Shorts

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 22 May 2012 15:10:00 +0000

Memorial Day is widely recognized as the kick off to summer. With pleasant weather in store for us, printed shorts may just be in the cards. They are the perfect excuse to show off your tan & toned gams! I mean, why else would I be suffering through my bazillion lunges? If you need some help in the bronzing department, I highly recommend Michael Kors' Leg Shine. Not only does it smell terrific, but it also gives your legs a flattering bronzed shine! Check out my top ten picks for graphic shorts below:

{top} 1) Kenny Pin Up Shorts $143 @ Shopbop; 2) Joie Layana Shorts $158 @ Shopbop; 3) Dolce Vita Agustina Ikat Shorts $154 @ Shopbop; 4) Blue Violet Shorts $148 @ Anthropologie; 5) Something Else Metamorphis Short $134 @ Shopbop;

{bottom} 6) Printed Canvas Shorts $49.95 @ Gap; 7) 3" SHORT IN ANTIQUE PAISLEY $59.50 @ J.Crew; 8) Wayne Rope Print Shorts $365 @Barneys; 9) CO-ORD FLORAL PRINT SHORTS $70 @ TopShop 10) Rosette Panorama Shorts $50 @ Madewell;

Happy almost summer!

Nautica Color Series Watches: Perfect for Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 10 May 2012 17:50:00 +0000

Summer is undoubtedly my favorite season. Beginning in January the countdown for summer is in full swing. When resort-wear starts making its way into stores, and I am bundled up in my massive loop scarf I find it to be a natural reaction! Last year I went on two warm weather vacations early in the year, so by contrast this spring has felt like chilly torture! I haven't really had the opportunity to enjoy my spring attire unless you consider striped boat-neck tees and Sperry's to be particularly exciting! I am longing for sunny days on the beach and bold colored accessories.

Blue Color Watch $95; Green Color Watch $95; Purple Color Watch $95; Pink Color Watch $95; Orange Color Watch $95; all @ Nautica

Last year, I purchased a bright colored plastic teal watch from Target, but admittedly it looks a bit juvenile. Nautica has released a new color series of unisex watches (NSR 100 Color Series) that capture the fun of summer without looking cheap or childish. The sporty watches come in a multitude of colors and are available for $95 each, and if you sign up for e-mails on Nautica's website you can get 20% off! It is time to get shopping!

Cheap Thrills: The Statement Bubble Necklace

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 16:29:00 +0000

The J.Crew catalog never fails to tempt me with beautiful and often overpriced things. After putting it down, I'm convinced I need that sweater in five colors, and of course a belt, shoes, and a statement necklace to match. I frequently fall victim to such ploys, but when the J.Crew models recently tempted me with their striking bubble statement necklace (pictured above) I resisted the $150 price tag. After all, I needed that money for the eight thousand color combinations of J. Crew's Cece ballet flats I am prepared to purchase! After a bit of searching, I have found an equally pleasing statement necklace in a similar style and colorfor a mere $39. I can now add a pop of contrasting color to my ensembles and still have a little money left over to put towards bills and ahem J.Crew related expenses. JOY!

J.Crew Bubble Necklace in Citrus Lime $150; Yellow Bubble Bib Necklace $39 @ Ily Couture; Bubble Statement Necklace $39 @ Ily Couture; J. Crew Bubble Necklace in Turquoise $150;

Shopping Report: Madewell Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:23:00 +0000

I used the pleasant weather we experienced on Easter weekend as an excuse to do a little bit of shopping. I didn't go crazy, but I did stop into Madewell to pick up the polka-dot flats I've been lusting after, and a beautiful celestial chart scarf.

the polka-dot sidewalk skimmer $98; Starsign Storyteller scarf

I've been busy breaking in those flats, first wearing them with my Hudson cherry jeans, then with this knit "embossed basket" Anthropologie dress (now on sale), and later I wore the scarf paired with a grey James Perse tee and my fave J.Brand Twill jeans in Navy.

Casa y Cucina: Shrimp Tacos

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:34:00 +0000

Summer is a time for sun, drinks, and seafood! It isn't quite summer yet, but my husband and I decided to whip up some shrimp tacos with a twist. Frequently fish/shrimp tacos are served with some sort of slaw, usually yogurt or mayonnaise based, but the hubby isn't a fan of coleslaw, so we stuck to fresh veggies, spices and olive oil.

Shrimp Tacos served with a side of black beans

Shrimp Taco Ingredients:

Whole Wheat Tortillas

Shrimp

Avocado

Tomatoes

Green Pepper

Frying Pepper

Carrots

Crumbled Blue Cheese (or any other cheese of your choice)

Olive Oil

Basil

Red Pepper

Chili Powder

Red Pepper Flakes

Sea Salt

Choice Hot Sauce

Choice Salsa (we opted for Mango flavored Salsa)

Side:

Black Beans

Steps:

Left: Carrot/Pepper Slaw Right: Prepping Tomato & Avocado

Place shrimp in bowl with a bit of olive oil and a rub of basil, red pepper, chili powder and red pepper flakes. Allow this to sit while you chop veggies and prepare the slaw.
The slaw was made by julienning a green pepper and a frying pepper and then mixing with fresh shredded carrots, olive oil, basil, sea salt & chili powder. (If you have some on hand, red cabbage would be a great edition to this mix as well).
The shrimp were sauteed on the stove top with olive oil. (In later summer months grilling the shrimp would add a second flavor dimension.)
Warm the tortillas, then place slaw, add shrimp, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado on top.
We topped off our tacos with crumbled blue cheese, mango salsa, and hot sauce, and enjoyed them with a side of black beans and a cold beer.

Ban.do Spring/Summer 2012 Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 18:55:00 +0000

Ban.do's Spring/Summer Collection of accessories is a girl's dream of glitter, bows, colorful gems, and hearts. Everything is wildly affordable, so go ahead, add a bit of color and whimsy to your life with these lovely new arrivals to the Ban.do shop:

{top} sunburst bobbi set $20; perfect bow bobbi $20; bermuda rose $50; pom pom flower $15; all @ shopbando
{bottom} crystal crush bobbi $20; glitter bobbi set $15; girlie chiffon bow $25; ban.do iphone case $25; ban.do heart tote $20; all @ shopbando

Drugstore Detours: Coral Nails With Gold Stripes

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:38:00 +0000

After a week of polka-dot nails, I made quick change to coral with simple twist: gold stripes on my ring finger. I chose Wet n' Wild Wild Shine nail color in Blazed as my base. I free handed three stripes on the nail of my ring finger with Art Club's striping nail polish in gold.

The brush with the Art Club polish is very thin so I trusted that I could maintain a steady hand. If the polish you choose for the stripes has a standard brush, I recommend using an eyeliner brush or a very thin paint brush instead. For precise stripes I recommend slicing strips of scotch tape and placing on your nail. (make sure your base color is 100% dry before placing tape on your nail to prevent chipping. I typically place the tape on my skin first to pick up a bit of oil to make sure the tape doesn't latch on to the polish like glue.) When you peel off the tape you'll have clean stripes. Top off the look with some clear polish and you're ready to go show off your diy mani!

The Webster Collection For The Shops At Target

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 16:47:00 +0000

The Shops At Target is Target's latest design collaboration project where they have partnered up with specialty stores to create limited-edition collections for the masses at affordable Target prices. On May 6th, the capsule collection from the Miami based boutique, The Webster, will become available to Target shoppers.The look book has me excited about this partnership, The printed maxi dresses and melon blazer are on the top of my personal wishlists. Check out ten of my favorite looks below:

images via Target.com

{top} 1) Blazer in Melon, $49.99 + Tank in Two-Way Deco Print, $19.99 + Pleated Shorts in Melon, $24.99 + Wedge Sandals in Palm Print, $29.99 + Hoop Earrings in Gold, $14.99; 2) Ruffle-Belted Dress in Palm Print, $42.99 + Cap-Toe Wedges in Melon/Gold, $29.99 + Sand Dollar Chandelier Earrings in Gold, $14.99; 3) Colorblock Cardigan in Dusty Pink, $32.99 + Colorblock Tank in Melon, $19.99 + Bikini Bottoms in Palm Print, $22.99 + Cap-Toe Wedges in Melon/Gold, $29.99 + Sand Dollar Chandelier Earrings in Gold, $14.99; 4) Cross-Back Maxi Dress in Palm Print, $44.99 + Cap-Toe Wedges in Melon/Gold, $29.99 + Sand Dollar Chandelier Earrings in Gold, $14.99 5) Short-Sleeved Drawstring Dress in Melon, $36.99 + Wedge Sandals in Palm Print, $29.99 + Straw Beach Tote in Palm Print, $39.99 + Palm Drop Earrings in Gold, $14.99; available @ Target

{bottom} 6) Strapless Maxi Dress in Wall Paper Floral Print, $44.99 + Wedge Sandals in Palm Print, $29.99 + Hoop Earrings in Gold, $14.99 7) Colorblock Cardigan in White, $32.99 + Tank in Palm Print, $19.99 + Jacquard Skirt in Coral, $29.99 + Ballet Flats in Melon/Palm Print, $24.99 + Sand Dollar Chandelier Earrings in Gold, $14.99 8) Colorblock Cardigan in White, $32.99 + Triangle Bikini Top in Wall Paper Floral Print, $22.99 + Bikini Bottoms in Wall Paper Floral Print, $22.99 + Cap-Toe Wedges in Melon/Gold, $29.99; 9) Bandeau Bikini Top in Palm Print, $22.99 + Bikini Bottoms in Palm Print, $22.99 + Wedge Sandals in Palm Print, $29.99 + Straw Beach Tote in Palm Print, $39.99 + Sand Dollar Chandelier Earrings in Gold, $14.99; 10) Colorblock Tank Dress in Navy/Green, $29.99 + Wedge Sandals in Palm Print, $29.99 + Tote in Wall Paper Floral Print, $29.99 + Striped Hat in Navy, $19.99 + Sand Dollar Chandelier Earrings in Gold, $14.99; available @ Target

Lauren Moffatt Spring/Summer 2012 Swim

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:26:00 +0000

Day dreaming about sunny days on the beach has resulted in me lusting after these lovely vintage inspired swimwear designs from Lauren Moffat:

{l to r} See You in September Ruffle Bandeau/Ruffle Hipster $198 @ Lauren Moffatt; On The Road, Again One Piece Swimsuit $210 @ Lauren Moffatt; Pink Lemonade Maillot $208 @ Anthropologie; Help Me Rhonda Ruffle Bandeau and Hipster $198 @ Lauren Moffatt;

Those ruffles have me swooning! Summer just can't get here soon enough!

Ten Things: Pastel Jeans

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 19:01:00 +0000

I love colored denim largely because of its surprising versatility. I find it easier to dress up than any of my traditional pairs. There are only a few colors I might shy away from personally. Typically cobalt, green, mint and coral are the shades I tend to gravitate to. I do happen to have one pair of AG cropped jeans in a lavender hue that are uber comfortable and make me feel a bit more cheerful and girly every time I put them on. For that reason, I've convinced myself I need another pair in a ice cream-y shade for the warmer months. Here are ten of my favorite pastel denim styles:

{top} Siwy Hannah Slim Crop Jeans (Cool la la) $154 @ Shopbop; Blank Denim Spray On Skinny Jeans with Side Zip (Spearmint) $84 @ Shopbop; Garment-dyed ankle-zip toothpick jean (Spearmint) $125 @ J.Crew; AG Adriano Goldschmied Jeans - Luscious Sateen Skinny Jeans in Neon Green $159 @ Bloomingdales; Paige Denim Verdugo Ultra Skinny Jeans (winkle) $159 @ Shopbop;

{bottom} 7 For All Mankind Jeans - Crop Leg Skinny Jeans in Bright Yellow $198 @ Bloomingdales; AG Neon Stevie Ankle Orange $158 @ Anthropologie; DL1961 Angel Ankle Jeans $158 (Sherbet) @ Shopbop; Goldsign Frontier Cropped Slim Leg Jeans (Salmon) $194 @ ShopBop; Joe's Jeans Skinny Jeans - Chelsea in Nectar $169 @ Bloomingdales;

If you need ideas on how to style these, I've collected some inspiration for the style file:

Minty fresh with endless style possibilities:

Images via: {top} Criss; Teatime Thoughts; Late Afternoon Blog; The Pink Peonies; Hello Fashion 123;
{bottom} See Jane Wear; via Seal It With A Kiss; Harpers Bazaar; Silvia C.; via a drop of Jacqueline;

Peaches & Pinks look so lovely when paired with neutrals:

Images via: Ring My Bell; Adore Blog; Cameron Diaz via Style Seen Daily; Olive Clothing; Rachel Bilson via Who What Wear;

Library Love: 'By Invitation Only: How We Built Gilt and Changed the Way Millions Shop' by Alexis Maybank & Alexandra Wilkis Wilson

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:36:00 +0000

By Invitation Only: How We Built Gilt and Changed the Way Millions Shop available for Pre-Order @ Amazon

As someone has made a few purchases from Gilt.com over the years and have lusted and debating about making many others (Current Want: Eugenia Kim feather fedora) I have become very familiar with the company from the consumer side. However, I did not know much about the history of how the e-commerce site came to be.

When I received an advanced copy of Alexis Maybank and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson's book "By Invitation Only" I dove in and was immediately fascinated and inspired by their story. Not only did they transform the e-commerce landscape with the launch of Gilt, effectively bringing the sample sale to the privacy of shopper's homes, even if those homes happen to be located in small town, USA. They demonstrated how powerful one simple and extremely good idea can be when combined with an entrepreneurial spirit.

The book offers tons of insight into what it takes to have a successful start-up, and also numerous tips on how to lead (and remain true to your leadership style while also making it an effective one), run a business, and also to grow a business while minimizing hiccups and growing pains. Anyone considering going into business with a family member or friend should read this book, even if they aren't interested in the fashion side of their business. For that matter, any of us who seek to one day be our own boss, should read, take notes, and be inspired by this book!

By Invitation Only: How We Built Gilt and Changed the Way Millions Shop is available for Pre-Order now, and will arrive in bookstores April 12th. Happy Reading!

*An advanced copy of this book was provided for review consideration.

Seychelles Spring Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 17:59:00 +0000

After a few 80 degree teaser days the New York City weather has rudely turned windy and rather frigid. Cold weather makes me want to stay inside and knit and bake cookies, while warm weather compels me to go out, explore my city whilst wearing cute outfits. Sure, I find knitting and baking to be enjoyable, but the teaser days made me desperate to trade my boots for sandals! My pedicure needs to see the sun!

My hope is that the mercury will rise just after my order from Seychelles arrives. I am completely smitten with their spring sandal collection that is complete with neon hues and color blocking. Check out my favorites from the collection below:

{top} Aloof Heel (tangerine/lime)$100; It Don't Mean A Thing Wedge (lime) $120; Freesia Flat (assorted) $90; all @ Seychelles
{middle} Coy Sandal (teal/purple) $80; Duet Sandal (fuschia) $90; all @ Seychelles
{bottom} Coy Sandal (lime) $80; Coy Sandal (fuschia/lime)$80; all @ Seychelles

It is going to be difficult to resist the urge to purchase the Coy sandal in every color combination!

Polka-Dot Craze

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:19:00 +0000

Are polka-dots the new stripes? Stripes aren't losing any favor, but there is an undeniable craze for polka-dots. I love the girly retro vibe this classic print gives off. I already have quite a lot of polka-dots in my closet that have been collected or thrifted over the years. Of course, that won't stop me from getting a little shopping in either! Here are some of my favorite polka-dot looks!

{top} State & Lake Polka Dot Bustier Mini Dress $228 @ Shopbop; the dots & stripes telegram clutch $50 @ Madewell; Equipment Earl Retro Dot Blouse $248 @Shopbop; Bandeau one-piece White Polka Dot $59.95 @ Gap; Dot Cutout Dress $58 @ Nasty Gal; ASOS Sleeveless Skater Dress With Belt In Spot Print $39.39;

{middle} Aqua Polka Dot Sateen Skirt $78 @ Bloomingdales; Polka-dot popover $88 @ J.Crew; Spotted Sea Heels $340 @ BHLDN;Dropped Dots Dress $158 @ Anthropologie; OndadeMar Miramar String Bikini Top $100 @ Shopbop; Current/Elliott Polka Dot Stiletto Crops $218 @ Anthropologie;

{bottom} Sheer Polka Dot Blouse $19.80 @ Forever 21; MARC BY MARC JACOBS Pleated Silk Polka Dot Shorts $228 @ Nordstrom; Big-shot dot circle skirt $128 @ J.Crew; the polka-dot sidewalk skimmer $98 @ Madewell; Spot Colour Block Clutch Bag $40 @TopShop; Linen dot popover $85 @ J.Crew;

I am even sporting polka-dots on my nails! It doesn't hurt that it happens to be one of the easiest DIY nail art designs! Polka-dot nails: I created this look using Sally Hansen Salon Effects (from the Avril Lavigne collection) I found at my local Duane Reade:

To create the look the traditional way all you need is your choice of contrasting polish, toothpicks or a dotting tool (I use this one I purchased from Sephora). If you prefer the stickers, Check your local drugstore for the Avril Lavigne Sally Hansen Salon Effects stickers, or try similar polka-dot nail strips:

Sephora currently has: Cute Dots (Pink with white dots) or My Favorite Skirt (Navy with white dots) available. Nail Wraps from Nail Rock has similar styles available @ ASOS & TopShop: White w/ black dots; Red w/ white dots; Black w/ white dots. If you're looking for inspiration, I have a lot of different looks I've gathered from the interwebs posted on my Beauty Board on Pinterest, so check it out!

Loeffler Randall Spring Shoe Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 16:07:00 +0000

Loeffler Randall's Spring collection is high on my lust list. From color-blocked sandals, polka-dots, colorful wedges, and flattering nudes, this collection meets my every desire and need. I simply cannot get enough. If only I could convince my boss to give me a raise.

{row 1}Chloe platform sandal (bottle green polka-dot) $350; Filippa mignon flat sandal (bottle green snake embossed leather) $295; Dita platform pump (black & cream printed jacquard) $425; Anja mignon wedge (orange) $375; all @ Loeffler Randall

{row 2}Esther platform pump (Tortora vachetta leather) $450; Fawn sporty flat sandal (acid yellow & black) $295; Serafina plank sandal (acid yellow flower) $195; Reba velcro sandal (nude leather with acid yellow trim) $375; all @ Loeffler Randall

{row 3} Selima plank sandal (tan with black patent leather trim) $175; Rachel mignon sandal (Tortora vachetta leather) $350; Francie knot sandal (nude with metallic polka-dots) $275; Lotte knot clog (coral leather) $235; all @ Loeffler Randall

{row 4} Luca mignon flat sandal (terracotta leather) $295; Darcy platform pump (nude/hot melon/ black leather) $395; Fawn sporty flat sandal (nude/black/hot melon) $295; Serafina plank sandal (melon leather flower) $195; all @ Loeffler Randall

DVF + GapKids

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 16:34:00 +0000

DVF for GapKids available March 15th @ Gap.com

Diane Von Furstenberg has created a line for GapKids that will launch on March 15th. The line ranges from sizes for newborns to age 14, and runs $20 to $45. If you know of a new mom there will be a DVF diaper bag (sold online only) available for $120, but I'm guessing it will sell out instantly if it is half as cute as these looks are. I don't have any kids of my own, but I do have a 6 year old niece who would look adorable in these little printed dresses, and I might not be able to resist purchasing her one. Now if only I could get those little sandals in my size...

Watch the video below:

Kate Spade Tellling Time In Style

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:25:00 +0000

{top}Kate Spade 'Carousel' bangle watch $250 each @ Nordstrom

{bottom} 'delacorte' bangle watch (when in rome) $295; 'metro' patterned dial watch (pink floral) $175; 'metro' patterned dial watch $175; pink 'metro' leather strap watch (gold/dots) $150; yellow 'cooper' leather strap watch $195; 'metro' patterned dial watch (white w/ gold spade) $175; 'gramercy grand' bracelet watch $195; all by Kate Spade @ Nordstrom

My wallet has been having a dangerous love affair with Kate Spade and just when I was about to reign it in, a booklet of new Kate Spade watches arrives in my mailbox. It seems Kate Spade's colorful idiom bangles have morphed into watches. Like the idiom bangles, each Kate Spade 'carousel' bangle watch has an inscription on the inside, if I had to choose just one I think the pool colored watch with the 'Dive In' inscription would have to be mine. My will to resist is weak! Those who are fans of a more classic looking watch will be equally pleased with the selection. The watches are available at Nordstrom now!

Madewell Spring 2012 Neutral Looks

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 21:38:00 +0000

Madewell catalog coming March 6th

I am loving these neutral looks from Madewell's upcoming Spring catalog. I adore neutral color-blocking, so that first dress is on my MUST list. Of course, any of the pieces would look equally as good paired with the ubiquitous bold hues overtaking our closets!

For more style & design inspiration check out this video from Madewell of Caroline de Maigret's Paris loft and a peak at more upcoming looks from Madewell:

Quiz Time: Fun fragrances from Aldo

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:13:00 +0000

I recently tried Aldo's new personality geared fragrances. Take a mini-quiz at A is for ALDO to find out what corresponding scent is best for you & your personality. The fragrances are coded by color...the women's fragrances are as follows:

A is for ALDO Red is perfect for passionate and sensual women. Top notes offer aromas of frozen peach and bergamot; the heart adds jasmine, rose and honeysuckle, while the base closes with sandalwood, amber and musk.

A is for ALDO Blue is ideal for sexy, glamorous and seductive women, alluring us with bergamot, freesia, lemon and verbena. The heart encompasses heliotrope, jasmine and magnolia, while the base includes coconut, black amber, Tonka, musk and plum.

A is for ALDO Yellow is for those of us that are chic and playful. It opens with luminous and citrusy notes of mandarin, grapefruit and neroli, as an overture to a floral heart full of orange blossom, honey suckle and jasmine. The base includes amber, sandalwood and musk.

I chose A is for ALDO Yellow, and have been carrying around the small roll-on fragrance with me in my bag. It is a fun citrus scent, perfect for everyday. It makes me think of spring and warm weather, so it puts me in a good mood!

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Shop the fragrances at ALDO. Be sure to check out the fantastic (and affordable) shoes for spring while you're there! I have my eye on some pastel platforms! I also really love this playful video from the Aldo team:

Fluro Fun: Loving The Neon Trend

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:34:00 +0000

I am a child of the eighties so hyper-color shirts, neon snap bracelets, and lime glow-in-the dark hoop earrings were once some of my coveted fashion possessions. I wish I could say I walked around giving looks of disdain a la Suri to my peers for their questionable taste, but instead I embraced them. I'm not proud of it, and for some reason I just can't shake my love of these blinding neon hues (Thankfully, I don't have the same nostalgic feelings for big hair or perms!). The neon trend has taken over, and I especially love when the bright hues are paired with neutrals. Greys, camel, and beige look phenomenal with lime, hot pink, and yellow. Some of my favorite neon pieces can be found below:

{top} The Cambridge Satchel Company Satchel - Fluorescent Satchel $155 @ Bloomingdales; VIBRANT Hot pink Ballet Pumps $32 @ TopShop; Drea patent peep-toe pumps $198 @ J.Crew; Diane von Furstenberg 'Kaiti' Slingback Sandal $195 @ Nordstrom; Roberto Cavalli Neon python snake-clasp clutch $1,850 @ Net-A-Porter; Emilio Pucci Color-block cashmere sweater $990 @ Net-A-Porter; rag & bone/JEAN The Legging in Neon Pink $187 @ Revolve Clothing;

{bottom} Neon Ballerina $35.90 @ Zara; Patterson J. Kincaid Virginia One Pocket Blouse $118 @ Revolve Clothing; Jimmy Choo Cayla patent-leather clutch $1,150 @ Net-A-Porter; Elizabeth and James Bruce silk-crepe blazer $445 @ Net-A-Porter; Michael Kors Stretch Boucle Dress, Neon $1595 @ Bergdorf Goodman; J.Crew Cashmere sweater $180 @ Net-A-Porter;

{top} Diane von Furstenberg Lily Hatsu Colorblock Dress $375 @ Cusp; Alice + Olivia Mila Pleated One Shoulder Dress $297 @ Shopbop; Diane von Furstenberg Lytton Small Patent Leather Clutch $325 @ Shopbop; textile elizabeth & james perfect sweatshirt in sunny lime $145 @ Madewell; Neon Nugget Friendship Bands $28 @ Free People; La Mer Neon Wrap Watch $98 @ Urban Outfitters;

{bottom} belle by sigerson morrison randy neon sandals $175 @ Madewell; kate spade new york 'gayla' oversized polarized sunglasses $148 @ Nordstrom; Gorjana Graham Leather Triple Strand Wrap $97 @ Shopbop; Italian leather skinny belt $39.50 in Lemon Zest @ J.Crew; textile elizabeth & james® neon mick jeans $225 @ Madewell;

For work, or for the faint of heart you might prefer to stick to small pops of color in the form of accessories as demonstrated below:

1) Timex watch & patent leather watch band both @ Jcrew 2) Italian leather skinny belt $39.50 in Lemon Zest @ J.Crew; 3) Linen Wrap in Citrus Lime $49.50 @ J.Crew... 1&2 are paired with the dotted songbird dress from Madewell 3 (and 1 too) are paired with the painter zip tee in stripe from J.Crew (50% of my wardrobe is J.Crew/Madewell...I have an addiction!)

Favorite Nail Look: Nude Polish + Gold Glitter

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:01:00 +0000

My favorite nail look at the moment is a simple twist on a classic nude polish. I use O.P.I.'s apinky beige shade of polish under a gold glittering top coat. You can easily achieve this look by pairing your choice of a beige or barely there pink shade of polish and a gold glitter top coat. If you don't have a glitter top coat on hand simply mix craft glitter with a bit of clear polish!

I used Mimosas For Mr. & Mrs. as my base coat, and used Only Gold For Me as my top coat.

OPI Nail Lacquer Mimosas For Mr. & Mrs. + Only Gold For Me Top Coat by O.P.I. For Sephora

This was my final look:

I find that glitter top coats are a great way to hide smudges and chips through out the week, so I seem to always have one on hand. Ah, the many benefits of loving glitter!

Gadget Girl: Gallery Worthy iPhone Cases

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:16:00 +0000

Lately I've noticed my iPhone sliding around in its case. Naturally, that gave me an excuse to shop for a new case that was both functional and fashionable. I now have a bit of a dilemma because I discovered all of the amazing, gallery worthy, iPhone cases available for sale at Society 6. I am particularly smitten with these abstract cases designed by Amy Sia:

{clockwise} Sunset Storm $35; Electric Haze $35; Ocean Sky $35; Jade Storm $35; all @ Society 6

Aren't they gorgeous? If you're not an iPhone user, don't fear, Society 6 has designs just as lovely as these available as prints, tech covers/skins, and tees.

Shop the selection at Society 6.

HANAair Hair Dryer Product Review

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:41:00 +0000

A few weeks ago I was contacted by Misikko to review a HANA Salon product. I typically do not use flat irons, so I opted to review the Hair Dryer, a styling tool that is essential to my hair's existence ever since I cut bangs in my hair. If I don't blow out my hair, it dries flat and my bangs look stringy and annoying cowlicks reign supreme. It isn't a good look to say the least. I have tried countless dryers ranging from drugstore faves, the professional consumer variety, and the whatever is lying around variety.

HANAair hair dryer packaging (and HANAair Shine Shield Therapy)

My first impression was positive, the dryer was packaged in a nice box with a single concentrator attachment. The concentrator attachment is perfect for me because I typically dry my hair with a round brush and like to concentrate the air on those sections giving me a smooth, sleek look. Gals with curly or wavy hair would probably prefer to have a diffuser in there as well, but the single attachment was great for me. The dryer has two fan speeds, three heat settings and a cold shot button. The dryer was easy to handle. It wasn't too heavy, and the concentrator attachment stayed firmly on while drying. I was constantly knocking off the concentrator attachment off my old dryer, so this was an immediate improvement.

Having a bit of fun testing out the dryer

I was impressed by how powerful the dryer was, the air was not joking around. I wasn't impressed by how hot the dryer got, I mean it is hot, but even the dryers at my gym are probably hotter. Because of my hairs lack of thickness & the fact it is naturally straight the dryer's sheer power was able to dry my hair with great speed despite the fact the dryer didn't come close to getting as hot as my other dryers. I have a friend who has went through tons of professional hair dryers and will judge them simply based on how hot they get. She has a ton of thick, curly hair, so for her, heat is really essential especially if she is blowing her hair out straight. I doubt this dryer would meet her requirements for those reasons.

My weapon of choice

This is an excellent dryer for someone like me who wants to blow out their hair as fast as possible with a sleek, non-frizzy look with a little bit of volume at the roots. It would even be good for someone with medium-thick hair or anyone with slight waves. If you're looking for hellish heat this isn't for you, but otherwise it is an excellent choice if you are willing to make a decent investment in a hair styling tool. The dryer is available for $195 (but typically retails for $335).

The final results after blowing my hair out with the HANAair dryer.

Everyday Beauty Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:51:00 +0000

On most days I prefer a neutral makeup look, and on special occasions I will elevate my everyday look by adding some individual false lashes, create a smokey eye, or I will opt for a bright lip color. I thought it would be fun to show you the makeup products that I flock to on a daily basis. These are my ultimate favorite beauty products I simply wouldn't want to live without:

M.A.C. Cork Eyeshadow a great tan shadow that is matte and applies & blends so smoothly. I use this on the outer half of my lid.
M.A.C. Blanc Type Eyeshadow a fantastic matte color I use to highlight below my brow & the inner corner of eyes
M.A.C. Twinks Eyeshadow I love a little bit of sparkle on my eyes without a lot of chunky glitter. I love using this color in the crease & outer corner of my eyes to give my eyes definition and a little shimmer too.
M.A.C. All that Glitters Eyeshadow the texture of this shadow isn't one of M.A.C.'s best, but when used on the inner half of my lid it really makes my eyes open up, and for that I love it.
NARS Danmari blush palette -I love this palette because not only does it have my favorite blush "Orgasm" it has "Casino" which is great for contouring & "Hungry Heart" which is a great highlighter.
Laura Mercier Mineral Powder in Tender Rose - This is a must for faking flawless skin...it is buildable and can be used on its own as a foundation, but I use it as a pigmented powder on top of either my tinted moisturizer or foundation.
DiorShow Iconic Mascara lengthens & thickens my lashes without clumps and stays put. The brush is one of my favorite mascara brushes of all time.
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer in Nude I wear this on days I don't want to wear full on foundation, it gives me just enough coverage to help even out my skin tone.
Dior Addict Lipstick in Miss Dior I love this lipstick because it is super moisturizing and is the perfect hue, not too beige, not too peach, not too pink. The perfect neutral for me.
M.A.C. Kohl Power eyeliner in Feline-No girl should be without a true black eyeliner...this one is a cinch to apply (no tugging) and has serious staying power.
Makeup Forever 5 Camouflage Cream Palette - No. 1 This is creamy with great coverage. I love the lightest shade for highlighting, and the green shade for blemishes. The middle shades I can easily mix to match my skin.
Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer in Color Adjust -I've tried thousands of primers and this is still my favorite. I have fair skin with redness, so this is my secret weapon.
M.A.C. Painterly Paint Pot - I use this as a base for matte eye makeup looks, it really helps them last throughout the day.
Make Up Forever HD Invisible Cover Foundation-If you are going to be photographed (hello weddings) this is a must, it offers oil-free medium coverage and can stand up to harsh light (camera flashes)
Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Powder -I wore this on my wedding, if you are a bride or a bridesmaid this NEEDS to be in your arsenal... It is translucent powder that sets your makeup & gives you a flawless matte finish that will last all day...no shiny t-zone for you.
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion -base eyeshadow primer, I use this under my paint pot for extra staying power
Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil -basic lip balm I have with me at all times.
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment & Fresh Sugar Rosé Tinted Lip Treatment I received this mini set at Sephora as a birthday gift, and am completely hooked on these, they smell delicious and soften even the roughest of all lips.