platinum blonde life

J.Crew Collection Spring 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:28:00 +0000

J.Crew Collection Spring 2012 available now @ J.Crew.

Hello, Color! J.Crew's Spring 2012 collection look book is here with bright hues, stripes, neutrals, and pastels. I like the idea of pairing bright orange with peach, but I'm not sure I could pull off a monochromatic look. That said, I am fully ready to embrace color this season, but I'll probably stick to color blocking contrasting colors and pairing neutrals with neon. I would love to add the following J.Crew items to my spring wardrobe:

Toothpick jean in garment-dyed twill $108; Café capri $89.50; Cashmere boyfriend sweater $248; Cashmere Isabel sweatshirt $248; Edie purse $238; Tillary purse $148; Italian leather skinny belt $39.50; all @ J.Crew

Sweet Messages From Our Paper Shop

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:07:00 +0000

Aren't these cards from Our Paper Shop lovely?

pure love cards $4-18.50; you are sweet card $4; you're kind of great card $4; for you card $4 all via Our Paper Shop

Send a sweet message with these to your valentine or to someone special just because! See more great things from Our Paper Shop on their blog or in their shop.

Runway Report: Elie Saab Spring 2012 Couture Show

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:41:00 +0000

Looks on the runway via Style.com

A sea of dreamy pastel gowns marched down the runway at the Elie Saab Spring 2012 Couture show in Paris. I am awestruck, and think it is safe to assume pastel is going to make a big splash on the red carpet this year.

Looks from backstage {source}

View more photos from backstage here.

The looks were paired with sleek wrapped pony tails, dewey complexions, peachy-pink eyeshadow & blush, a thin wing of liquid eyeliner, individual false eyelashes on the outer eye, and M.A.C.'s Pink Plaid lipstick topped with gloss.

Watch the looks on the runway below:

Take Nordstrom's Fun Valentine's Day Personality Quiz!

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:50:00 +0000

For Valentine’s Day, Nordstrom has an online quiz, to help customers find lingerie to suit their personality and style. Simply answer a few fun questions to determine your "lingerie personality" then shop personalized picks based on your profile.

My quiz results labeled me as a playful flirt, so this pink Betsey Johnson chiffon babydoll may be in my future. Take the quiz here, and shop your personality profile at Nordstrom.

Hunger Games Capitol Couture & China Glaze Capitol Colours Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:09:00 +0000

Effie Trinket, Hunger Games via Capitol Couture

I am a bit obsessed with the Hunger Games and have been eagerly awaiting the film starring the gorgeous Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss, but more recently I've been intrigued by the stunning Elizabeth Banks' turn as Effie Trinket. In previews she looks pretty freaky, sort of the Lady Gaga of the Capitol, if you will. In anticipation of the film, the first issue of Capitol Couture has launched and features character profiles, images, and style & beauty tidbits inspired by the film. Elizabeth's character favors over the top beauty fashion choices as do many of the Capitol's citizens. Capitol Couture highlights a few of the looks including some of the shoes spotted in and around the Capitol including a gold pair of Alexander McQueen booties worn by Effie herself in the film:

Images via Capitol Couture

Additionally, China Glaze will be launching a new line of nail polishes in March to coincide with the March 23rd release of The Hunger Games. The Colours From The Capitol collection features 12 shades and will be available at retailers including Sally Beauty Supply and Ulta. Check them out below:

{top} Dress Me Up; Foie Gras; Fast Track; Hook and Line; Stone Cold; Smoke and Ashes;

{bottom} Agro; Mahogany Magirc; Harvest Moon; Riveting; Electrify; Luxe and Lush

This is certainly a Hunger Games inspired collection, but the Capitol is flashy, so I half excepted more spring colors thrown in and less neutral hues. Riveting is the only one that reads spring/summer to me, but they are all lovely and they get the mood of the story. Harvest Moon & Electrify are already on my wish list as I think they would look nicely paired together. I never fail to be drawn to glitter!

In the meantime, get your Hunger Games fix over at Capitol Couture's tumblr page!

Cheap Thrills: Emma Roberts' Heart Blouse Is A Must Have

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:56:00 +0000

Emma Roberts in ASOS , skinny jeans, and VC Signature Booties at SundanceCute Heart Top $34 @ Lulu*s; Ikat Heart Blouse $38 @ Nasty Gal; Love Ballad Top @ Mod Cloth;

Emma Roberts was spotted at Sundance wearing some fierce red lipstick, and an adorable heart printed ASOS blouse. It isn't very often a celeb shows up on the red carpet wearing something affordable, so I felt this needed a special shout out. The ASOS blouse Emma is wearing is no longer available, but you can get a similar blouse in the $35-40 range just in time for Valentine's day. Pair your choice blouse with vivid red lips skinny jeans or a cute mini skirt and you'll be ready to take February by storm.

Bright Idea: Ballet Flats

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:33:00 +0000

City gals rack up a lot of miles running around town, so if you see a girl who is someone other than Serena van der Woodsen wearing sky high platforms, chances are they have a chic pair of ballet flats patiently waiting in their bag for the big switch. There is no need to settle for the basic black flat when you can have them in bright eye catching hues. These are begging for center stage, and our feet can always use a break from those towering stunners we usually favor. Here are some of my personal favorites:

Row 1) Tory Burch 'Reva' Ballerina Flat in Red Volcano $195 @ Nordstrom; Cece leather ballet flats in gallery green $138 @ J.Crew; The Suede Sidewalk Skimmer in Crystal Blue $88 @ Madewell; Diane von Furstenberg Abby Printed Canvas Ballet Flats $175@ Saks; Trinket Flats, Tennis Racket $98 @ Anthropologie;

Row 2) Diane Von Furstenberg Abby Blue Bird Flats $175 @ Zappos; Vera Wang Lavender Label Lara Embossed Snake Ballet Flats in Orange Mix $175 @ Shopbop; Maria Sharapova by Cole Haan 'Air Bacara' Flats in Porcelain Green $148 @ Nordstrom; Cece suede ballet flats in Oasis Green $128 @ J.Crew; Jil Sander Suede Elastic Topline Flats in Salmon $450 @ Shopbop;

Row 3) Diane von Furstenberg Botswana Leather and Zebra-Print Calf Hair Ballet Flats $198 @ Saks; Jessica Simpson Madisen Ballet Flat Brule Bermuda $45.99 @ Endless; Cece suede ballet flats in Retro Lemon $128 @ J.Crew; Dolce Vita Lucca Flat in Pink $74 @ Revolve Clothing; Tod's Suede and Patent Leather Buckle Ballet Flats in Raspberry $445 @ Saks;

Row 4) On-Your-Toes Flats, Yellow $138 @ Anthropologie; Bloch London Women's Alia Ballet Flat in Carmine $125 @ Endless; The Suede Sidewalk Skimmer in Green Garland $88 @ Madewell; Yosi Samra Patent Flats in Lime $66; Cece suede ballet flats in Wild Berry $128 @ J.Crew; On-Your-Toes Flats, Turquoise $138 @ Anthropologie;

Style File: Tangerine Prints

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:15:00 +0000

2012 is bound to be a colorful year, with orange, coral, neon, and jewel tones fighting for top billing. These lovely tangerine printed dresses have me longing for warm weather and sun kissed skin. New York has been terribly cold, so while I'm knitting & sitting hot cocoa I'm dreaming of wearing one of these sooner rather than later!

Side Sweep Dress $48 @ Francesca's Collections (TOTAL STEAL!); Pleated Optic Maxi Dress $248 @ Anthropologie;

Pair these with a belt, sandals, a statement necklace, and pile on the bracelets and you'll be set for a lovely summer-y day.

1/25/12 Style File Update: Vanessa Hudgens was spotted wearing a similar maxi dress in Australia a few days ago. No word yet on the designer of Vanessa's dress.

image source

My new love: DVF iPad case

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 23:43:00 +0000

I received a shiny new iPad as a birthday gift, so as any respectable fashionista I set out to find the perfect case to protect it. There are so many beautiful options, but I decided on this zip around python embossed case from Diane von Furstenberg in the color "reef". The case stands on it own and could pass as a clutch. The iPad fits securely inside and the case can be converted to a stand in the instance you want to watch videos or use a keyboard.

This particular case also comes in slate with orange contrast, and DVF has several printed iPad cases that are quite lovely as well. Shop the selection at DVF.com.

Artist You Should Know: Sarah Ashley Longshore

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:32:00 +0000

Images via Matchbook Magazine

I just read a wonderful write up in Matchbook Magazine on the very talented and funny artist Sarah Ashley Longshore. I am just in awe of her work and of her gorgeous studio! Read the article here. See more of her work on her website!

Paper Doll Pop (and Fashion) Stars

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:01:00 +0000

Mel Simone Elliot, artist, designer and owner of 'I Love Mel' has created these genius paper dolls in the likes of some of our favorite fashion and pop stars including, Beyonce, Adele, Lady Gaga, Kate Moss, Debbie Harry, David Bowie and others. Each paper doll book contains two cut-out paper dolls and several fabulous (or crazy as is the case with Lady Gaga's meat dress) outfits. Beyonce & Kate Moss are available at TopShop for $15 each, the others can be purchased at I Love Mel.

Jason Wu For Target

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:48:00 +0000

Jason Wu's capsule collection is scheduled to hit Target stores and Target.com February 5th. The collection took inspiration from the idea of an American girl in Paris. The looks are modern, chic, yet timeless. I would love to grab a few pieces for my own closet and I am hoping Target has learned from the Missoni debacle and can handle the demand and accompanying web traffic! The looks range in price in price from $19.99 to $59.99 for apparel and $19.99 to $49.99 for handbags and scarves. Check out the looks below:

Images via Target.com

Happy Birthday To Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:23:00 +0000

Today is my birthday, and is the day I consider the official start to the New Year! I mean why start a New Year's diet on Jan. 1st if it means you have to refuse your own birthday treats in 10 days? It seems a bit wrong doesn't it? That has been my logic and it hasn't failed me yet! 2011 was an amazing year, I traveled to lovely tropical destinations, married my boyfriend of eight years, caught up with old friends, and crossed off several must-dos on my list of things to do before my next birthday! Here is my list of 30 things to do before my next birthday! 1) have fun! 2) save money even though that is never very fun. 3) buy a home 4) read 20 books 5) revisit the classics 6) eat healthier 7) cook dinner more often 8) drink less caffeine 9) take up yoga 10) run a marathon (hopefully I will get into the NYC marathon this year!) 11) buy a bike, and ride it often 12) knit my future niece or nephew cute baby items 13) knit myself a sweater 14) draw and paint more often 15) watch one old movie each month 16) visit the west coast 17) take a summer trip to Portland, Maine 18) go running on the beach 19) expand my record collection 20) visit Paris 21) learn how to make macarons 22) go on a photobooth scavenger hunt (with props in hand) 23) Take my cameras out and snap away 24) develop my film, upload photos, and organize them 25) go apple picking 26) bake an apple pie with said apples 27) volunteer at an animal shelter 28) work on a gallery wall of my paintings, drawings, photos and favorite art 29) spend quality time with my husband, beagle, family, and friends 30) carry over at least one of these "resolutions" to next years list! (an inevitability, no?)

Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:53:00 +0000

{clockwise} Style Me Pretty; Bubbly; Fiskars; Brent Foster Photography;

This video of Zooey Deschanel & Joseph Gordon-Levitt singing "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?" brought a smile to my face this morning, so I couldn't resist sharing! I hope you all had a wonderful 2011, and have an even better 2012!

Cheers!

Makeover Memo: Nars Danmari Blush Palette

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 22:50:00 +0000

Last week, I took my Sephora $20 VIB coupon to the store and exchanged it for NARS Danmari All About Cheeks Palette, a sleek black mirrored case containing six 0.12 oz blushes (a $107 value).

The palette includes the following cheek colors: Hungry Heart (gold ivory), Super Orgasm (peachy pink with gold glitter), Desire (cotton candy pink), Casino (dark brown with golden shimmer), Orgasm (peachy pink with golden shimmer), and Sin (berry with gold shimmer)

Close up of the Danmari palette, top: Hungry Heart, Super Orgasm, Desire, bottom: Casino, Orgasm, and Sin

The only full sized Nars blush I've ever bothering purchasing was Nars Orgasm. I love it so much, I wore it on my wedding day. It is the perfect coral pink with just enough shimmer without being overly glittery. I am most excited to try the ultra pink Desire, and I am curious to try Casino, as I am a big fan of NARS Laguna. Hungry Heart will serve well as a highlighter. Sin could be a nice surprise. All have nice pigmentation (although with Hungry Heart it is hard to tell on my pale winter skin), all blend nicely, and best of all none of them are overly glittery. Super Orgasm has the most glitter, but it remains manageable.


{Top, clockwise} Hungry Heart, Super Orgasm, Orgasm, Casino {Bottom, clockwise} Super Orgasm, Desire, Sin, Orgasm Overall, I find this to be an incredible value perfect for traveling, and small enough to fit into a purse or overnight bag! If you are new to NARS, this is a great way to get hooked, so beware, you're destined to fall in love! Check out the swatches below:

Swatches (clockwise): Hungry Heart, Super Orgasm, Desire, Sin, Orgasm, & Casino

The NARS Danmari palette was sold out online when I purchased mine at my local Sephora, If your store doesn't have it, try another one, or keep coming back in, it will turn up!

Fifi Lapin + Juicy Couture

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:59:00 +0000

Fifi Lapin, the fashionable illustrated bunny, has collaborated with Juicy Couture on a small capsule collection. Beginning in January, the Fifi hearts Juicy line of stationary, sketchbooks, and scarves will be available at Juicy Couture. I have long been a fan of Fifi Lapin's blog, so I am hoping I can get my hands on the white Fifi hearts Juicy scarf! The scarves will sell for $68. No word on the price points for the other goodies just yet. Fifi's print shop is closed for the holidays, but you can browse the cuteness at Fifi Lapin's blog now.

Casa y Cucina: Recipes to Try

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 21:19:00 +0000

I found two S'More related recipes today that I can't wait to try! One I'll have to wait until summer to try (as it calls for a fire pit), but the other will keep my sweet tooth satisfied all winter long!

First up this genius combination: S'Meaches (S'Mores + Peaches)

They look wonderfully delicious and come with a pitch perfect video tutorial:

S'Meaches from Claire Thomas on Vimeo

(via Claire Thomas at the Kitchy Kitchen)

Next up Chocolate Fudge S'More Thumbprint Cookies:

(Get the full recipe at How Sweet It Is)

D.I.Y. Color Blocked Clutch

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 21:44:00 +0000

D.I.Y. Color blocked American Apparel Pouches

This is wildly addictive d.i.y. project allows you to transform your plain leather pouch into a fun color blocked accessory. I thought, why not join in on the fun? American Apparel has a great selection of leather pouches in various sizes and colors. I like these because they have contrasting color zippers which adds to the color blocking fun, but any leather pouch will do.

SUPPLIES:

Leather Pouch (I used American Apparel's Medium Pouch in Black (w/ red contrasting zipper) and Melon (w/ violet contrasting zipper))
Painter's Tape (or masking tape)
Tape Measure (or a straight edge and a keen eye)
Acrylic Paint in choice color (I used Liquitex Heavy Body Acrylic paint in Cobalt Blue and Cadmium Yellow Medium)
Paint Brush
Clear Acrylic Sealer Gloss Finish Prepare your work surface and use an old magazine or catalog as a paint palette (Matte sealer is also available if you prefer)

STEPS:

Prepare your work surface from any paint mishaps. I like to use an old catalog or magazine as a paint palette. I also keep a plastic cup with a bit of water nearby, as this helps make the paint a bit more manageable on the surface.
Measure out and tape off your desired stripe(s). For the Melon pouch I measured a 2 inch vertical stripe in the center of the pouch. For the black pouch I measured a three inch horizontal stripe on the bottom of the pouch all the way around so I could paint both sides.
Begin painting, allow each coat to dry for 2 hours before laying on another coat. The Melon pouch covered easily, but the Black pouch was not so easy. It took me several coats to get it just right. It might help to prime the surface with white paint if you choose a dark pouch, or just bring a lot of patience!
Now that the stripe(s) are completely dry and are looking the way you want them to, it is time to spray on some sealer for a nice glossy finish. Be sure to spray in a well ventilated area and according to instructions on the can. Allow to dry for 15 minutes. Peel off tape. Now you have a fabulous Color Blocked Clutch.

My D.I.Y. Celine inspired pouch

My Clare Vivier (non-envelope) inspired pouch

Have fun with this! The possibilities are endless!

D.I.Y. Reverse French Braid Up Style

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 21:22:00 +0000

I wanted to share one of my recent d.i.y. french braid up styles. This one I'm quite proud of because it was quite the arm work out. Although it is a bit taxing on your arms it is a pretty quick & easy style. I started by blowing my hair dry with a bit of Aveda's Phomollient Styling Foam in my hair for a lift. I then started the braid over my right ear and worked a reverse french braid around the crown of my head. The turn at the back of the head is the most difficult part because it requires you to change direction of braiding. It took some careful consideration to get it just right, but once I made it to the back right portion of my head (for an asymmetrical look), I tied off the braid into a pony tail with a clear elastic hair band. I then split the pony into three sections and braided each section individually. At this point I had a pony with three tiny braids hanging down. I then wrapped & wove the tiny braids into a bun and pinned into place. I topped off the look with hair spray and went out the door!

ShoeMint 'Jolly' Booties Review

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 16:13:00 +0000

My first purchase from ShoeMint (the new venture for Rachel Bilson & Nicole Chavez in collaboration with Steve Madden & BeachMint) arrived at my doorstep yesterday. I ordered the taupe 'Jolly' booties in a half size up (based on the sites recommendation) and couldn't be happier with my purchase. The shoes go for $79.98 but have been offering numerous promos and discounts at launch, so I purchased them at a slight discount. I hope that discount trend continues because I can see myself being tempted to purchase more from them in the future.

Not only are these shoes stylish, but they are incredibly comfortable considering the height (3 1/2" wedge). Just this morning I've walked a mile in them and I'm not even exaggerating! Today, I styled them with J.Crew's matchstick cords in a wine color & a sheer nude colored blouse from H&M. They seem like they will be pretty versatile, so I expect to get a lot of wear out of them! I would say they are a bit roomy, so I'm not sure going up a half size was completely necessary for me, but for these particular shoes it shouldn't be an issue because A) they lace up and B) can be worn with socks.

Also, a quick note on ShoeMint's customer service, the site was overwhelmed with orders (most styles if not all of them are currently sold out), but they still responded to my emails & questions in a timely manner. I did however have to email twice to get a tracking number. I received the tracking number at 12pm yesterday directly from customer service. My shoes were incidentally delivered at 10am yesterday. As of this morning, with the shoes on my feet, my order still says processing under my account settings on the ShoeMint site. I found that to be a little funny, but these hiccups are expected with a big (and wildly successful) launch. In this case, no harm, no foul.

New Teal Pop Herringbone TOMS

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 17:14:00 +0000

My classic ash grey TOMS are faded and full of holes, so when I spotted these herringbone TOMS with a teal blue sole I knew I had found a new love. They are even lined in gingham pleasing my preppy heart! I purchased the Teal Pop style, but there are other herringbone styles available. If you're into the colored soles like I am check out the Yellow Pop & Pink Pop styles.

I haven't thrown out my old TOMS or anything, as I might re-purpose them into sandals come spring/summer! If you're looking for a good holiday gift idea, I think a pair of TOMS would be a perfect gift. With every pair purchased, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need with their One for One program. 'Tis the season of giving!

Marni for H&M Spring 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:27:00 +0000

H&M just announced that they will collaborate with Marni for spring 2012. Marni is one of my favorite brands, their color-blocking, prints, and patterns draw me in, so the opportunity to get the looks at H&M prices is extremely exciting! The H&M collection is described below:

"For women, the colors are vivid, and the prints are bold, be they African-inspired or simpler color blocks. The silhouettes are all Marni staples, with full pleated skirts, dresses, cropped pants and jacquard knits; fabrics range from silk to crisp cotton poplin. To complete the look, the collection also includes jewelry, shoes, bags and scarves. For men, the colors and fabrics are softened for a relaxed take on menswear staples that are truly Marni. The use of prints is subtle; they often appear as a lining or as a contrast detail for shirts; the silhouette is a modern, relaxed take on masculine classics."

I think this will be another huge hit for H&M! The collection will be availble from March 8, 2012 in over 250 stores worldwide and online.

Watch the video below:

Coco Chanel: An Intimate Life by Lisa Chaney Review

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:09:00 +0000

Coco Chanel: An Intimate Life and other Chanel books in my collection

Lisa Chaney's new biography, "Coco Chanel: An Intimate Life" offers a fresh look at the life of one of the most influential women of the twentieth century. I, like many of you, have long been fascinated by not only the brand Chanel, but the woman that created it all. Her story is one that has been told before, in various books and films, yet Lisa Chaney was able to dig up new documents, letters, and other verifiable evidence to reveal the truth behind the rumors and dispel the myths that have long surrounded Chanel. Many of us have Chanel coffee table books and have seen the films, but haven't bothered to really read or research her life. Her life is a captivating tale, one that I have thoroughly enjoyed and have happily immersed myself in. I think this book would be a fantastic gift for any Chanel fan, or biography lover. The book is available for purchase at Amazon , Barnes & Noble and other book sellers.

Coco Chanel: An Intimate Life by Lisa Chaney

FTC Info: This book was provided by the publisher for consideration for review.

D.I.Y. Glitter Flats

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 22:34:00 +0000

Glitter embellished shoes, belts, and bags are widely popular and always seem to be incredibly overpriced. I once paid nearly $300 on a pair of glitter flats. They were beautiful, a tad uncomfortable, and hugely over-priced. Definitely not one of my best purchases. The thing is, it is so incredibly easy to revive any pair of shoes or old belt you have with glitter. I purchased a pair of black flats at Payless that were on sale for $7 that are far more comfortable than the $300 flats I mentioned earlier. I spruced them up using the following items:

painter's tape to tape off the soles and inner edge of the shoe
foam brush
silver glitter (I used Martha Stewart's Silver Glitter )
Mod Podge- Gloss Finish

Step One: Prepare your work surface & tape off the sole and inner part of your shoe

NOTE: The next part is a choose your own adventure! (YAY!) Both options work well Option A helps avoid patchiness but creates a mess of excess glitter Option B is faster and is much easier to clean up after but you will likely have to do touch up work. Choose what you think will work best for you, or try them both out and see what you like best! :)

[OPTION A]

Step Two A) Dip your foam brush into the Mod Podge and paint a coat onto the shoe and sprinkle the glitter directly onto the shoe shaking off any excess until shoe is completely covered in glitter
Step Three A) Now that your shoe have been glitterfied take your foam brush into the Mod Podge once again and give your shoe a fresh coat of mod podge with out glitter. This will seal your glitter onto the shoe nicely. Don't freak out when it looks white and gross over the glitter, the Mod Podge dries clear and will look fantastic once dry!

The end result is a beautiful shoe with glitter that has been applied wonderfully even. The above process does create a mess, all that access glitter you shook off your shoe now has to be cleaned up. There is a reason why they say glitter is the herpes of the craft world, one wrong move and you have a mess! Those of you that want to avoid that all together enter Plan B:

[OPTION B]
Step Two B) Pour a sizeable amount of Mod-Podge into a bowl and pour a sizeable amount of glitter into the Mod-Podge and mix together. (1 part glitter 2 parts Mod-Podge is a good rule)
Step Three B) You will now paint your shoe using this mixture. Try to paint on as evenly as possible (this is the hard part). Touch up any patches as it dries. Once dry you can give it a clean coat (no glitter) of mod podge to seal it, although this isn't as necessary as it is in Option A Step Three)
Step Four: Allow shoes to dry for a few hours (I leave mine overnight just to be safe). Before wearing it might also be a good idea to spray on a rain protectant, but that is completely up to you.

The Final Result will look like this!

Once you experience the wonders of Mod-Podge I have a feeling you will be doing this to all sorts of things and can spend your hard earned money on things other than these.

Giffords Circus by Ellen von Unwerth for Lula Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Sweeney) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 19:52:00 +0000

Via Lula Magazine

This video of model, Rasa Zukauskaite, & the Giffords Circus shot by Ellen von Unwerth for Lula Magazine's thirteenth issue put a smile on my face this morning. I mean, who wouldn't want to wear Rodarte to the Circus? Watch it below:

Giffords Circus By Ellen Von Unwerth from nathan guillaumey on Vimeo.