the importance of a reliable trench

• Pulls an outfit together properly on a rainy day
• Can make jeans look smart and sophisticated
• Is a forever piece, a classic
• Can be worn even when it’s not raining

Sometimes, I forget how essential a trench coat is. I’ve been in the market for a stone colored, double breasted trench for about 4 years. The one I want is a fortune, but I saw one the other day that was pretty great. I looked at it, and put it back.

I thought to myself:

It’s beautiful outside – why waste money on a trench?

Well, it has poured for the last 2 days. I’m still not going to buy the trench, but I’ve officially been reminded of their significance in a well rounded wardrobe.

The trench coat I’m wearing is from Zara (a few seasons ago). It’s a steel color, which goes with everything. I love to pop a bright colored scarf under my coat, it helps to liven up a rainy day.

what is it about Ms. Cutrone?

You already know I am intrigued by Kelly Cutrone. It’s not just that she’s a fierce business woman, it’s her quirky sense of style.

eccentric style

She’s certainly not known for her fabulous fashion sense, but there’s something head-tilting about the way she puts it together. It works for her.

The wrap could be her signature look. She’s almost always got one draped around her, even in the Summer. It’s interesting, because it seems to soften her hard edge business side.

trend setter

Could she be starting a new trend? Will we see more wraps this Summer?

I’m looking forward to tonight’s episode – here’s a clip:

This year, at the Oscars, many of the lovely ladies went with a bold lip. It reminded me of old Hollywood glamour. When I watch the Oscars, I want to see them all dressed up. I want to see beautiful dresses, perfect makeup, and great hair. It gives us ideas, allows us to daydream.
Personally, I can never seem to pull off a bright lip, but I think they all looked beautiful! If you notice, when they do a bight lip they keep everything else simple. It’s all about the lip. Give it a try.

You’ll hear everyone else talking about ‘The Bun’ as the big hair trend at the Oscars. While we liked the bun, we loved the smooth styles of Kate Winslet, and Sandra Bullock. The hair looked shiny, healthy, and glamorous.

I always get excited to see the Oscars. Mostly, to see what the ladies are wearing. The red carpet is my all time favorite!

This year, I was invited to an Oscar viewing party. Now… that is where you get the most feedback.

As a blogger, it’s not something you can pass up. When women get together, we dish! I knew I would get the most honest opinions about what the women were wearing, what stood out, and who failed miserably.

I wanted to get a bit more dolled up than I normally would for a Sunday night.
The eye

• thick liner on top
• clear mascara
• a little shimmer

The lips

• Glossy
• Nude

The cheek

• Flushed

Originally, I was going to wear my sequin boyfirned blazer played down with a white tee. UNTIL… I came across my Todd Oldham leopard jacket from about 12 years ago. Paired with a rich purple top, and grounded with slouchy skinnies. My mood for the evening was matched!

As predicted, I got a lot of feedback from the ladies in the room.

Sandra Bullock was the Best-Dressed. While some of the ladies didn’t like her hair, others weren’t sure about the bright lip. I thought she was brilliant. I thought the bright lip kept her from fading away, making the nude dress sparkle.

Jennifer Lopez was a very close second. When her name was first mentioned, the ladies said “she’s either hit or miss… which will it be?”
We all thought she looked lovely. Her body looked great in the dress, and the dress was seriously spectacular.

Sarah Jessica Parker was a BIG disappointment! The hair looked like cinnamon buns were stuck to her head, and the dress a “sad sac”.

The women were saying: “She has such a fabulous figure, why would she hide it like that?” “What was she thinking?” “Was there some significance to the dress?”

Who were your favorites at the Oscars? Why?

had one of those days, when you wake up in the morning and you’re already counting the hours until bed?

One of those days when you’re thinking you may just drop the kids off at school, and crawl back into bed until pick-up?

There’s no bounce in your step, no joy in your tone.
You down another cup of coffee, hoping to reach the ultimate caffeine high, only now you have the shakes.

I emerged from the virtual world, where my company lives, to let the dogs out. The brilliant light from the sun drew me further out of my cave. It was like an awakening, a rebirth.

I sat in the sun for a few minutes feeling its warmth on my face. It was peaceful, and managed to drag me out of the funk I had been in for a few days.

Spring is one of my favorite seasons. You can have gorgeous weather without the heat and humidity. It’s comfortable.
I embraced the moment, enjoying my dogs.

Duke shakes water all over me… I should have known!

Don’t you dare! Mojo’s attempting to chew my new shoes.

Sometimes, you have to blow off writing emails, posting, and twitter – so you can enjoy the moment. I did… we did. It’s your turn!

Have a great weekend! Enjoy the visual splendor at the oscars. xoxo

Turn your face to the sun and the shadows fall behind you ~Maori Proverb

The sun is nature’s Prozac. ~Astrid Alauda

Photo: Alexei Hay; styled by: Christopher Niquet

Personal Style Quiz

– What is your fashion personality?

I really enjoyed taking this quiz, and I think it got my style right. Which style are you?

Beauty Insider: Gwen Stefani Makeup Looks

- The star reflects on her trademark style and reveals what makeup she can’t live without.

She’s lovely! Walking through Miss Selfridge’s, in London, I bumped into the gorgeous Miss Stefani. She was alone, no entourage. She looked me in the eye and said: “hey”. She looked EXACTLY as you see her – full red lips, baggy cargo pants, and a jean jacket. No fuss… just cool! That’s just fabulous!!

Hot Coco:

Model Coco Rocha Poses for the Camera – She never fails to take the runway by storm, and as the new face of a storied British makeup brand, Coco Rocha is truly hitting her stride.

I love beautiful photography, and these pics of Coco don’t disappoint.

Street Chic: Milan Fashion Week

– Floral leggings (on model Sasha Pivovarova) are in full bloom this season.

The best ideas come from the people we see on the streets everyday, especially in a place like Milan!

Olivia Wilde Photo Shoot

– A smoldering Olivia Wilde models Spring’s sexiest trends.

To me, she’s known as ‘13′ from the hit show HOUSE. She also happens to be beautiful! She works magic with today’s hottest trends.

This sponsored content is brought to you by Style Coalition

I love when I’m introduced to new and interesting online boutiques. To sum it up…

Eryn Brinie exemplifies European chic combined with New York youthful spirit and modern sensibility

The clothing is very ‘today’. It’s wearable, functional, meant to be layered, and is easy to play with. Plus, they offer ‘daily steals’ – everyday a regular priced item is put on sale for 24 hours.

• The Garcon sleeveless blouse is perfect for Summer. It’s designed beautifully, and has nicely tailored detail.
• The Painter Dress is an easy throw on with statement sandals. It’s a great piece for running around, doing errands on a hot day.
• The Tulip Pant – a very on target style. It’s a refined harem pant, a much improved design. It’s an easy-going pant, relaxed in it’s style.

It’s worth a look, especially if you’re a little sick of the chain stores. Eryn Brinie Boutique

A noticeable way to update your espadrille style – bows! They are more girlie, and are certainly eye catching. The downside is, they can be difficult to wear with pants. The bow can get in the way of a properly hanging trouser. You’ll be more successful wearing them with dresses, skirts, and pedal pushers.

Let’s face it, every Spring we’re getting a little naked. If it works for you, it goes with everything. It also has the power of elongating the leg … I love that!

We’re seeing a lot of navy for Spring. It’s softer than black, and works beautifully with white. Navy and white is a very classic look, it’s timeless.

The Horror

I’m not really sure where to begin. Are there words?

your thoughts

Tell me.. what do you think of denim sweatpants? How would you wear them?
Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

History of Chanel No. 5

– Enduring Fragrance: The Story of Chanel No. 5’s Longtime Appeal
She’s my favorite. Chanel means more to me than just fashion and fabulous clothing. She was business savvy, and a trail blazer.

Behind-the-Runway: William Rast by Justin Timberlake

– Joe Zee interviews Justin Timberlake and Trace Ayala on their new Fall 2010 collection
Who’s hotter than Justin Timberlake? He’s proven himself to be more than just boy-band material. His music transcends genre, he blurs the line between music artist, actor, and comedian.

Alcohol and Calories:

Does Drinking Cause Weight Gain? New research suggests that drinking may pack on the pounds even more than you thought
Remember the saying freshman 15? That’s not just about eating carbs late-night. Read the article to find out exactly what happens to your fat burning ability when you drink.

Beauty Top 5: Best Sunscreens

The votes are in: These sunscreens keep you covered from head to toe
If you don’t use sunscreen, you need to! Check out what Elle’s top 5.

Spring 2010 Beauty Trend:

Glitter Eye Makeup – Sparkling tips and products to play up your eyes
It’s always nice to get the 411 on the newest beauty trends. Find out what’s in for Spring…

This sponsored content is brought to you by Style Coalition